Clothes treating apparatus and method for controlling same

Abstract

The clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a housing having a laundry introduction opening formed through one side thereof; a door for opening / closing the laundry introduction opening; a user interface; and a controller for controlling the door so as to be opened, closed, locked, and unlocked. The controller may acquire a command for selecting at least one from a washing process and a drying process from a user through the user interface. On the basis of acquiring a command for selecting both the washing process and the drying process from the user, the controller may acquire, before the washing process is started, a first command regarding whether or not to pause such that the drying process is not started for a predetermined first time after the washing process is ended, from the user through the user interface. Upon acquiring the first command whether or not to pause, the controller may start the washing process. If the washing process is ended, the controller may not start the drying process while keeping the door unlocked for the predetermined first time on the basis of the acquired first command being a command to pause. If the washing process is ended, the controller may subsequently start the drying process on the basis of the acquired first command being a command not to pause.

Description

Garment treatment device and its control method

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a garment treatment device and a control method thereof.

[0002] A garment treatment device is a device for treating and / or managing garments. The garment treatment device may include a washing machine and a dryer.

[0003] A washing machine is a device that uses the driving force of a motor to mix laundry, water, and detergent inside a tub, thereby washing them through friction between them.

[0004] The cycles performed by a washing machine, regardless of the type of washing machine, may include a washing cycle in which detergent and water are supplied to a tub containing laundry and the drum is rotated to wash the laundry, a rinsing cycle in which water is supplied to the tub and the drum is rotated to rinse the laundry, and a dehydration cycle in which water is discharged from the tub and the drum is rotated to remove moisture from the laundry.

[0005] The cycle performed by the washing machine may include a drying cycle in which heat generated by the drying device is blown into a space containing laundry to dry the laundry. The washing machine may include a drying device to perform the drying cycle.

[0006] Recently, various research and developments are being conducted to enable a single clothing treatment device to function as both a washing machine and a dryer.

[0007] The disclosed invention relates to a washing / drying combination washing machine that provides a function that allows a user to perform a desired operation for a predetermined period of time by providing a predetermined time interval between a washing cycle and a drying cycle.

[0008] A garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a housing (10) having a laundry inlet (11) formed on one side; a door (40) for opening and closing the laundry inlet (11); a user interface (100); And a control unit (300) for controlling the door (40) to be opened, closed, locked, and unlocked; wherein the control unit (300) obtains a command from a user through the user interface (100) to select at least one of a washing process and a drying process, and, based on the command being obtained from the user to select both the washing process and the drying process, obtains a first command from the user through the user interface (100) before starting the washing process as to whether to pause so as not to start the drying process for a first predetermined time after the washing process is finished, and, when the first command as to whether to pause is obtained, starts the washing process, and, when the washing process is finished, based on the obtained first command being a command to pause, does not start the drying process while unlocking the door (40) for the first predetermined time, and based on the obtained first command being a command not to pause, when the washing process is finished, starts the drying process.

[0009] A method for controlling a clothing treatment device (1) including a door (40) for opening and closing a laundry inlet (11) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: obtaining a command from a user through a user interface (100) to select at least one of a washing process and a drying process; obtaining, before starting the washing process, a first command from the user through the user interface (100) regarding whether to pause the drying process for a first predetermined time period after the washing process is finished based on the command being obtained; starting the washing process when the first command regarding whether to pause is obtained; when the washing process is finished, not starting the drying process while unlocking the door (40) for the first predetermined time period based on the obtained first command being a pause command; and when the washing process is finished based on the obtained first command being a non-pause command, starting the drying process.

[0010] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a washing / drying washing machine can be provided that provides various conveniences by allowing a user to perform a desired operation for a predetermined period of time by providing a predetermined time interval between a washing cycle and a drying cycle.

[0011] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a washing machine can be provided that, when a washing cycle is completed, does not start a drying cycle, but instead unlocks the door or automatically opens the door, thereby creating an environment in which a user can perform a desired action for a predetermined period of time.

[0012] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a washing machine can be provided that allows a user to set whether to leave a predetermined time interval between a washing cycle and a drying cycle when both the washing cycle and the drying cycle are selected.

[0013] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates a part of a configuration arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates a configuration arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from a different direction than that illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a control system of a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Fig. 6 shows a control block diagram of a garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing a control method of a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing a control method of a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing a control method of a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing a control method of a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0025] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0026] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0027] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0028] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0029] For example, a phrase such as "A, B, and / or C" may include any one of the items listed in that phrase, or all possible combinations of them.

[0030] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0031] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0032] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0033] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0034] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0035] Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, a garment treatment device and a control method thereof according to various embodiments will be specifically described. A washing machine according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, dehydration, and drying processes. A washing machine is an example of a garment treatment device, and a garment treatment device is a concept encompassing a device that washes garments (laundry items, drying items), a device that dries garments, and a device that can perform both washing and drying of garments.

[0036] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include top-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet for loading or removing laundry is provided facing upward, or front-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet is provided facing forward. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines of other loading methods other than top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines.

[0037] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry. The front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine with a dryer that can dry the laundry contained inside the drum. The washing machine with a dryer may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensing device for removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum. For example, the washing machine with a dryer may include a heat pump device. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine with a washing method other than the washing method described above.

[0038] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include a housing that accommodates various components therein. The housing may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry inlet formed on one side.

[0039] The washing machine may include a door (40) for opening and closing the laundry inlet. The door (40) may be rotatably mounted to the housing by a hinge. At least a portion of the door (40) may be transparent or translucent to allow the interior of the housing to be seen.

[0040] A washing machine may include a tub provided within a housing to store water. The tub may be provided in a generally cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be positioned within the housing such that the tub opening corresponds to a laundry inlet.

[0041] The tub may be connected to the housing by a damper. The damper can absorb vibrations generated when the drum rotates, thereby reducing the vibrations transmitted to the housing.

[0042] A washing machine may include a drum configured to accommodate laundry.

[0043] The drum may be positioned within the tub such that the drum opening provided on one side corresponds to the laundry inlet and the tub opening. Laundry may be sequentially passed through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening to be accommodated within the drum or taken out from the drum.

[0044] The drum rotates within the tub and can perform each of the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration operations. The cylindrical wall of the drum is formed with a number of perforations, allowing water stored in the tub to flow into or out of the drum.

[0045] A washing machine may include a drive device configured to rotate a drum. The drive device may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may be connected to the drum by penetrating the tub.

[0046] The driving device can rotate the drum forward or backward to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, or drying cycle.

[0047] A washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to a tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve provided on the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub via the detergent supply device. Water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

[0048] The water supply valve can open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valve can allow or block the supply of water to the tub from an external water source. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0049] A washing machine may include a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to a tub. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device that requires a user to add detergent for each wash cycle, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically supplies a predetermined amount of detergent during a wash cycle. The detergent supply device may include a detergent compartment for storing detergent. The detergent supply device may be configured to supply detergent into the tub during a water supply process. Water supplied through a water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device. The water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub. Detergent is used as a comprehensive term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent compartment may be divided into a pre-wash detergent storage area, a main wash detergent storage area, a fabric softener storage area, and a bleach storage area.

[0050] A washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water contained in a tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the tub to the outside of the housing, a drain valve provided in the drain pipe to open and close the drain pipe, and a pump provided on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water in the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0051] The washing machine may include a control panel positioned on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface for interaction between the user and the washing machine. The user interface will be described below.

[0052] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with external devices via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0053] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0054] The communication module can transmit data to or receive data from external devices (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance). For example, the communication module can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various data.

[0055] To this end, the communication module may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Any of these communication modules may communicate with the external device via a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0056] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0057] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0058] In one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices such as a server, a user device, and other home appliances through a peripheral access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine or the user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine or the user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The control unit can control various components of the washing machine, such as a drive motor and a water inlet valve. The control unit can control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one cycle, including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, according to a user input. For example, the control unit can control the drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of the drum, or control the water inlet valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0059] The control unit may include hardware such as a CPU or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the washing machine, at least one memory storing program-type data, and at least one processor performing the aforementioned operation using data stored in the at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0060] Below, various embodiments of a garment treatment device are specifically described with reference to the attached drawings. While a washing machine is described below as an example of a garment treatment device, the concepts of the present disclosure are not limited to washing machines and can be applied to various devices for treating and / or managing garments.

[0061] The terms “front,” “rear,” “left,” and “right” used in the description below are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0062] For example, the X-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction, the Y-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction, and the Z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction.

[0063] FIG. 1 illustrates a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a portion of a component arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 illustrates a component arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from a different direction than that illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a garment treatment device (1) according to various embodiments may include a housing (10) that accommodates various components therein. The housing (10) may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry inlet (11) formed on one side. The laundry inlet (11) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0065] The garment treatment device (1) may include a door (40) for opening and closing the laundry inlet (11). The door (40) may be rotatably mounted to the housing (10) by a hinge. At least a portion of the door (40) may be transparent or translucent to allow the interior of the housing (10) to be visible. For example, the door (40) may include tempered glass.

[0066] The garment treatment device (1) can perform a locking function to prevent the door (40) from being opened during operation. The garment treatment device (1) can lock or unlock the door (40).

[0067] Meanwhile, the locking function of the door (40) can be performed by a separate door locking device. The door locking device can lock or unlock the door (40) depending on the operation performed by the clothing treatment device (1).

[0068] Additionally, the garment treatment device (1) can control the door (40) to open automatically. To this end, the garment treatment device (1) can include an actuator (not shown) for automatically opening the door (40).

[0069] In one embodiment, the garment treatment device (1) may include an actuator (not shown) for automatically closing the door (40).

[0070] In the present disclosure, automatically opening or closing the door (40) may include the garment treatment device (1) controlling an actuator to open or close the door (40) without user intervention.

[0071] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a tub (20) provided inside the housing (10) to store water. The tub (20) is provided in a roughly cylindrical shape with a tub opening (21) formed on one side, and may be arranged inside the housing (10) so that the tub opening (21) corresponds to the laundry inlet (11). The tub opening (21) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0072] The tub (20) can be connected to the housing (10) by a damper (25). The damper (25) can absorb vibrations generated when the drum (30) rotates and attenuate vibrations transmitted to the housing (10).

[0073] A clothing treatment device (1) may include a drum (30) configured to accommodate laundry. At least one lifter (33) may be provided inside the drum (30) to perform washing by raising and lowering laundry.

[0074] The drum (30) may be placed inside the tub (20) such that the drum opening (31) provided on one side corresponds to the laundry inlet (11) and the tub opening (21). Laundry may pass through the laundry inlet (11), the tub opening (21) and the drum opening (31) in sequence to be accommodated inside the drum (30) or taken out from the drum (30). The drum opening (31) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0075] The drum (30) can perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration process while rotating inside the tub (20). A plurality of holes (32) are formed in the cylindrical wall of the drum (30), so that water stored in the tub (20) can flow into the inside of the drum (30) or flow out from the outside of the drum (30).

[0076] The garment treatment device (1) may include a driving device (50) configured to rotate a drum (30). The driving device (50) may include a driving motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting driving force generated by the driving motor to the drum (30). The rotating shaft may pass through the tub (20) and be connected to the drum (30).

[0077] The driving device (50) can rotate the drum (30) forward or backward to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, or drying cycle.

[0078] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a water supply device (60) configured to supply water to the tub (20). The water supply device (60) may include a water supply pipe (61) and a water supply valve (62) provided in the water supply pipe (61). The water supply pipe (61) may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe (61) may extend from the external water source to the tub (20). Water may be supplied to the lower detergent supply device (86) via the tub (20). Water may also be supplied to the lower detergent supply device (86) without passing through the tub (20).

[0079] The water supply valve (62) can open or close the water supply pipe (61) in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valve (62) can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub (20). The water supply valve (62) may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0080] The garment treatment device (1) may include a detergent supply device (80, 86) configured to supply detergent to the tub (20). The detergent supply device (80, 86) may include an upper detergent supply device (80) and a lower detergent supply device (86). The term "detergent" may be used as a comprehensive term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc.

[0081] The upper detergent supply device (80) may be located at the upper part of the tub (20). The upper detergent supply device (80) may be located above the tub (20) in the direction of gravity. The upper detergent supply device (80) may include a manual detergent supply device that requires the user to add detergent for each wash, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically adds a predetermined amount of detergent during the wash. The upper detergent supply device (80) may be connected to the tub (20) via a connecting pipe (81). For example, the upper detergent supply device (80) may be configured to supply solid detergent and / or fabric softener to the tub (20). However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above-described example.

[0082] The lower detergent supply device (86) may be located at the bottom of the tub (20). The lower detergent supply device (86) may be located lower than the tub (20) in the direction of gravity. The lower detergent supply device (86) may include a manual detergent supply device that requires the user to add detergent to be used for each wash, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically adds a predetermined amount of detergent during the wash. For example, the lower detergent supply device (86) may be provided to supply liquid detergent and / or fabric softener to the tub (20). However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above-described examples.

[0083] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a drainage device (70) configured to discharge water contained in the tub (20) to the outside. The drainage device (70) may include a drainage pump (71) for discharging water in the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10). The drainage device (70) may include a circulation pump (76) for circulating water in the tub (20) back to the tub (20) via the lower detergent supply device (86).

[0084] The drainage device (70) can be connected to the tub (20) through a tub connection pipe (72). The drainage device (70) can discharge water from the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10) through a drain pipe (73).

[0085] The garment treatment device (1) may include a control panel (15) arranged on one side of the housing (10). The control panel (15) may provide a user interface (100) for interaction between a user and the garment treatment device (1). The user interface (100) will be described later.

[0086] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a drying device (90) for drying laundry accommodated inside the drum (30). The drying device (90) may be configured to heat air and supply it to the inside of the tub (20). The drying device (90) may be configured to dry and heat air discharged from the tub (20) and circulate the dried and heated air into the inside of the tub (20) to dry clothing inside the drum (30). The drying device (90) according to various embodiments may be arranged on the upper portion of the tub (20).

[0087] The drying device (90) may include a drying device case (90a) in which a heat pump for drying air may be installed. The drying device (90) may include a drying device cover (90b) that is coupled to the drying device case (90a) and is provided to form a path through which air may move. The drying device cover (90b) may cover the open upper surface of the drying device case (90a).

[0088] A drying device (90) according to various embodiments may be configured in a heat pump manner. The drying device (90) may include a compressor (91), a condenser (92), an evaporator (93), an expansion valve, and a refrigerant pipe (94) through which refrigerant circulates. The compressor (91), the condenser (92), the evaporator (93), etc., which constitute the heat pump, may be placed in a drying device case (90a).

[0089] The compressor (91) compresses the refrigerant, and the compressed high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant can move to the condenser (92). The condenser (92) can cool the refrigerant and heat the surrounding air. The heated air can be introduced into the drum (30) to dry clothes.

[0090] The refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve can absorb heat in the evaporator (93) and cool the surrounding air. That is, the evaporator (93) can cool the high-temperature, humid air that has passed through the inside of the drum (30) and remove moisture. The air from which moisture has been removed passes through the condenser (92) and can be reheated through heat exchange with the refrigerant passing through the condenser (92). That is, the condenser (92) can heat the air that has passed through the evaporator (93).

[0091] For example, the drying device (90) may further include a heater (99). The heater (99) may increase the drying efficiency of the drying device (90). For example, the drying device (90) may also replace heat pump components with the heater (99).

[0092] A heater (99) can heat air flowing into the interior of the drying device (90). The heater (99) can be placed in a heating duct (96). The heater (99) can be placed downstream of the condenser (92). In addition, the heater (99) can be provided in a relatively small size so as to minimize flow resistance. For example, the heater (99) can be a sheath heater.

[0093] A drying device (90) according to various embodiments may be placed on the upper side of the tub (20). On the upper side of the tub (20), an inlet duct (95) through which air is introduced into the drying device (90), a heating duct (96) through which a condenser (92) and an evaporator (93) are placed, and a supply duct (97) through which air heated in the drying device (90) is supplied to the interior of the drum (30) may be provided.

[0094] An inlet duct (95) is provided so that air passing through the interior of the tub (20) can be introduced into the drying device (90). The inlet duct (95) may be arranged on the upper side of the tub (20). The inlet duct (95) may be connected to an exhaust passage (P) formed at the rear of the tub (20). Specifically, the inlet duct (95) may include an inlet duct head (95a) forming an inlet of the inlet duct (95). Air passing through the exhaust passage (P) can be introduced into the drying device (90) through the inlet duct head (95a).

[0095] A filter (98) may be provided in the inlet duct (95) to filter out foreign substances such as lint contained in the air flowing in through the exhaust path (P) from the tub (20). The air flowing in through the inlet duct (95) may pass through the filter (98) and then move to the heating duct (96).

[0096] The air flowing into the heating duct (96) may be hot and humid because it has passed through the inside of the tub (20). The hot and humid air may be cooled in the evaporator (93) located in the heating duct (96) to remove moisture. The air from which moisture has been removed in the evaporator (93) may be reheated by passing through the condenser (92).

[0097] The supply duct (97) can pass through the condenser (92) and supply heated air back into the interior of the tub (20). The supply duct (97) is connected to the heating duct (96) and can extend downward to discharge heated air toward the opening of the tub (20).

[0098] The supply duct (97) may include a fan (97a) for causing air to flow into the interior of the tub (20). That is, the fan (97a) may cause air to flow and supply it to the laundry inside the drum (30). For example, the fan (97a) may include a sirocco fan.

[0099] According to this configuration, the inlet duct (95) and the supply duct (97) can circulate air into the interior of the tub (20) and the drying device (90).

[0100] A garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured so that air is introduced into a drying device (90) through an inlet duct (95) provided on the upper side of a tub (20). Air heated in the drying device (90) may be supplied into the interior of a drum (30) through a supply duct (97) provided on the upper side of the tub (20).

[0101] Accordingly, the garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can minimize the space occupied by the air circulating path within the housing (10), thereby reducing the overall size of the product. In addition, the distance through which air circulates between the interior of the drum (30) and the drying device (90) can be shortened, thereby improving drying efficiency.

[0102] The clothing treatment device (1) according to various embodiments may further include an exhaust passage (P) provided to supply air discharged from the tub (20) to the drying device (90). The exhaust passage (P) may be connected to an inlet duct (95) of the drying device (90).

[0103] An exhaust path (P) may be provided to discharge moist air passing through the tub (20). For example, the exhaust path (P) may be provided at the rear of the tub (20). The exhaust path (P) may be formed by a recessed portion (28) formed in the tub (20) and a duct cover (29) provided to cover the open rear surface of the recessed portion (28).

[0104] The air inside the tub (20) can move to the exhaust path (P) through the tub exhaust port (28a). The air can flow along the exhaust path (P) and be supplied to the drying device (90).

[0105] Heated air from the drying device (90) can be supplied into the interior of the drum (30). In order to secure an area where the heated air supplied into the interior of the drum (30) comes into contact with the laundry, the tub exhaust port (28a) may be provided at a position opposite to the position where the heated air from the drying device (90) is supplied to the tub (20). In order to increase the distance and / or time that the heated air flows inside the drum (30) so that it can come into more contact with the laundry, the tub exhaust port (28a) may be provided at a position opposite to the position where the heated air from the drying device (90) is supplied to the tub (20). The supply duct (97) for supplying the heated air into the interior of the drum (30) and the tub exhaust port (28a) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. By increasing the area where the heated air comes into contact with the laundry, the drying efficiency can be improved.

[0106] The exhaust passage (P) can be formed by the duct cover (29) covering one open side of the recessed portion (28). The exhaust passage (P) can be a single passage formed by the recessed portion (28) and the duct cover (29) together.

[0107] The duct cover (29) can form an exhaust path (P) through which air discharged through the tub exhaust port (28a) flows to the drying device (90).

[0108] The tub (20) may include a duct connection portion (27) that protrudes outward from the outer surface. The duct connection portion (27) may protrude approximately upward from the outer surface of the tub (20).

[0109] The duct connection (27) can connect the drying device (90) and the recessed portion (28). The duct connection (27) can form a part of the exhaust passage (P). That is, it can form a single passage that constitutes the exhaust passage (P) together with the recessed portion (28) and the duct cover (29).

[0110] The duct connection (27) may be covered by a duct cover (29). The duct connection (27) may be open on one side. The duct cover (29) may cover the open side of the duct connection (27).

[0111] The duct cover (29) can cover both the recessed portion (28) and the duct connection portion (27). Specifically, the duct cover (29) can cover both the open side of the recessed portion (28) and the open side of the duct connection portion (27). An exhaust path (P) can be formed by the duct cover (29) covering the recessed portion (28) and the duct connection portion (27). For example, the duct cover (29) may cover only the recessed portion (28).

[0112] Air flowing in through the tub exhaust port (28a) can be communicated to the drying device (90) through the recess (28), duct cover (29), and duct connection (27).

[0113] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a control system of a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0114] Fig. 6 shows a control block diagram of a garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the garment treatment device (1) may include a communication unit (200) including a communication module capable of communicating with another home appliance (not shown), a user device (2), or a server (3), a user interface (100) that receives user input or outputs information to a user, at least one processor (310) that controls the operation of the garment treatment device (1), and at least one memory (320) that stores a program for controlling the operation of the garment treatment device (1).

[0116] The other appliance may be at least one of various types of home appliances. For example, the other appliance may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a refrigerator, a dishwasher, an electric range, an electric oven, an air conditioner, a washing machine, a dryer, and a microwave oven. Furthermore, the other appliance may include various types of home appliances not shown in the drawings, such as a cleaning robot, a vacuum cleaner, and a television. Furthermore, the aforementioned appliances are merely examples.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 5, the server (3) may include a communication module capable of communicating with another server, a garment treatment device (1), or a user device (2), at least one processor capable of processing data received from another server, a garment treatment device (1), or a user device (2), and at least one memory capable of storing a program for processing data or processed data. The server (3) may be implemented as various computing devices such as a workstation, a cloud, a data drive, or a data station. The server (3) may be implemented as one or more servers that are physically or logically separated based on function, detailed configuration of function, or data, and may transmit and receive data through communication between each server and process the transmitted and received data.

[0118] The server (3) can perform functions such as managing user accounts, registering a garment processing device (1) by linking it to a user account, and managing or controlling the registered garment processing device (1). For example, a user can access the server (3) through a user device (2) and create a user account. The user account can be identified by an ID and password set by the user. The server (3) can register the garment processing device (1) to the user account according to a set procedure. For example, the server (3) can link identification information (e.g., serial number or MAC address) of the garment processing device (1) to the user account, thereby registering, managing, and controlling the garment processing device (1).

[0119] The user device (2) may include a communication module capable of communicating with the garment treatment device (1) or the server (3), a user interface for receiving user input or outputting information to the user, at least one processor for controlling the operation of the user device (2), and at least one memory in which a program for controlling the operation of the user device (2) is stored.

[0120] The user device (2) may be carried by the user or placed in the user's home or office, etc. The user device (2) may include, but is not limited to, a personal computer, a terminal, a portable telephone, a smart phone, a handheld device, a wearable device, etc.

[0121] A program for controlling the garment treatment device (1), i.e., an application, may be stored in the memory of the user device (2). The application may be sold installed on the user device (2) or downloaded and installed from an external server.

[0122] A user can access a server (3) by executing an application installed on a user device (2), create a user account, and register a garment processing device (1) by communicating with the server (3) based on the logged-in user account.

[0123] For example, if the garment treatment device (1) is operated so that the garment treatment device (1) can be connected to the server (3) according to the procedure guided by the application installed on the user device (2), the garment treatment device (1) can be registered in the user account by registering the identification information (e.g., serial number or MAC address) of the garment treatment device (1) in the corresponding user account on the server (3).

[0124] A user can control a garment treatment device (1) using an application installed on a user device (2). For example, when a user logs into a user account using an application installed on the user device (2), a garment treatment device (1) registered to the user account appears, and when a control command for the garment treatment device (1) is input, the control command can be transmitted to the garment treatment device (1) via the server (3).

[0125] A network can include both wired and wireless networks. Wired networks include cable networks or telephone networks, while wireless networks can include any network that transmits and receives signals via radio waves. Wired and wireless networks can be interconnected.

[0126] A network may include a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, a local area network (LAN) formed around an access point (AP), and a short-range wireless network that does not use an access point (AP). Short-range wireless networks may include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), Wi-Fi Direct, Near Field Communication (NFC), Z-Wave, etc.

[0127] An access point (AP) can connect a garment processing device (1) or a user device (2) to a wide area network (WAN) to which a server (3) is connected. The garment processing device (1) or a user device (2) can be connected to the server (3) via the wide area network (WAN).

[0128] The access point (AP) communicates with the clothing treatment device (1) or user device (2) using wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), or Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), and can connect to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication, but is not limited thereto.

[0129] According to various embodiments, the garment treatment device (1) may be directly connected to a user device (2) or a server (3) without going through an access point (AP).

[0130] The clothing treatment device (1) can be connected to a user device (2) or a server (3) via a long-distance wireless network or a short-distance wireless network.

[0131] For example, the garment treatment device (1) can be connected to the user device (2) via a short-range wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct).

[0132] As another example, the garment treatment device (1) can be connected to a user device (2) or a server (3) via a wide area network (WAN) using a long-distance wireless network (e.g., a cellular communication module).

[0133] As another example, the clothing treatment device (1) can be connected to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication and connected to a user device (2) or a server (3) through the wide area network (WAN).

[0134] If the garment treatment device (1) can connect to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication, it can also function as a connection relay. Accordingly, the garment treatment device (1) can connect other home appliances to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server (3) is connected. In addition, other home appliances can connect the garment treatment device (1) to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server (3) is connected.

[0135] The garment treatment device (1) can transmit information about its operation or status to another home appliance, a user device (2), or a server (3) via a network. For example, the garment treatment device (1) can transmit information about its operation or status to another home appliance, a user device (2), or the server (3) when a request is received from the server (3), when a specific event occurs in the garment treatment device (1), or periodically or in real time. When the server (3) receives information about its operation or status from the garment treatment device (1), it can update the stored information about the operation or status of the garment treatment device (1), and transmit the updated information about the operation and status of the garment treatment device (1) to the user device (2) via a network. Here, updating information can include various operations in which existing information is changed, such as an operation of adding new information to existing information, an operation of replacing existing information with new information, etc.

[0136] The garment treatment device (1) can obtain various information from other home appliances, user devices (2), or servers (3), and provide the obtained information to the user. For example, the garment treatment device (1) can obtain information related to the function of the garment treatment device (1) (e.g., cooking methods, washing instructions, etc.) and various environmental information (e.g., weather, temperature, humidity, etc.) from the server (3), and output the obtained information through a user interface.

[0137] The garment treatment device (1) can operate according to a control command received from another home appliance, a user device (2), or a server (3). For example, if the garment treatment device (1) obtains prior approval from the user so that it can operate according to a control command from the server (3) even without a user input, the garment treatment device (1) can operate according to a control command received from the server (3). Here, the control command received from the server (3) may include, but is not limited to, a control command input by the user through the user device (2) or a control command based on preset conditions.

[0138] The user device (2) can transmit information about the user to the clothing treatment device (1) or the server (3) via the communication module. For example, the user device (2) can transmit information about the user's location, health status, preferences, schedule, etc. to the server (3). The user device (2) can transmit information about the user to the server (3) with the user's prior consent.

[0139] The garment treatment device (1), user device (2), or server (3) may determine control commands using technologies such as artificial intelligence. For example, the server (3) may receive information regarding the operation or status of the garment treatment device (1) or information regarding the user of the user device (2), process the information using technologies such as artificial intelligence, and transmit the processing results or control commands to the garment treatment device (1) or the user device (2) based on the processing results.

[0140] The door (40) can open and close the laundry inlet (11) provided on one side of the housing (10). The door (40) can be rotatably mounted on the housing (10) by a hinge. The door (40) can be provided with a locking function to prevent it from being opened while the clothes treatment device (1) is in operation. When the locking function is provided, it becomes difficult to open the door (40) by physical force of the user. In addition, the locking function can be released so that the door (40) can be opened. When the locking function is released, the door (40) can be opened by physical force of the user.

[0141] Additionally, the door (40) can be opened automatically without user operation by the automatic opening function of the clothing treatment device (1).

[0142] The user interface (100) may include at least one input interface (110) and at least one output interface (120).

[0143] At least one input interface (110) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal. That is, at least one input interface (110) can receive a command for operating the garment treatment device (1) from the user.

[0144] At least one input interface (110) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface (110) may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0145] At least one output interface (120) can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the garment treatment device (1) to the user.

[0146] For example, at least one output interface (120) can transmit information related to the washing course and operating time of the washing machine, washing settings / rinse settings / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine can be output through a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0147] The communication unit (200) may include at least one communication module. The communication module may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, a corresponding communication module may communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These different types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0148] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0149] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0150] In one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices such as a server (3), a user device (2), and other home appliances via a peripheral access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the garment treatment device (1) or the user device (2) is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The garment treatment device (1) or the user device (2) can be connected to the server (3) via the wide area network (WAN).

[0151] The control unit (300) can control various components of the washing machine (e.g., door (40), drive motor, water supply valve). The control unit (300) can control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one operation including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying according to user input.

[0152] For example, the control unit (300) can control the drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of the drum, or control the water supply valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub. In addition, the control unit (300) can automatically open the door (40), automatically close the door (40), or perform or release the lock function of the door (40).

[0153] The control unit (300) automatically opening the door (40) may include the control unit (300) controlling an actuator (not shown) capable of opening the door to open the door (40).

[0154] Automatically closing the door (40) by the control unit (300) may include the control unit (300) controlling an actuator (not shown) capable of closing the door (40) to close the door (40).

[0155] The control unit (300) may include hardware such as a CPU or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit (300) may include at least one memory (320) that stores algorithms for controlling the operation of components in the washing machine, data in the form of programs, and at least one processor (310) that performs the aforementioned operations using data stored in the at least one memory. The memory (320) and the processor (310) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (310) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (320) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (320) and the processor (310) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0156] Below, a method for controlling a clothing treatment device (1) by a control unit (300) will be described.

[0157] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing a control method of a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0158] Referring to FIG. 7, the control unit (300) can control the garment treatment device (1) to perform at least one of a washing process and a drying process. To this end, when power is supplied to the garment treatment device (1), the control unit (300) can obtain a command from the user to select at least one of the washing process and the drying process through the user interface (100) or the communication unit (200). For example, the user can select both the washing process and the drying process (S110).

[0159] The control unit (300) may obtain a first command from the user through the user interface (100) or the communication unit (200) to determine whether to pause the drying process for a predetermined first time period after the end of the washing process before starting the washing process, based on the command to select both the washing process and the drying process from the user (S120).

[0160] That is, the first command refers to a user's command as to whether to activate the function of temporarily stopping the garment treatment device (1) without operating it for a predetermined first time period between the washing cycle and the drying cycle.

[0161] When the first command regarding whether to pause is obtained, the control unit (300) can control to start the washing process. (S130) In addition, the control unit (300) can control to end the washing process after performing the washing process for a predetermined period of time. (S140)

[0162] When the washing process is finished, the control unit (300) may unlock the door (40) so that the door (40) can be opened for a predetermined first time based on the fact that the first command obtained from the user is a pause command, and may not start the drying process (S150, S151).

[0163] By providing a pause function for a predetermined first time, the user can perform necessary actions. For example, to maximize the effectiveness of the drying process, the user can open the door (40) to remove clothing that cannot be dried by the dryer or insert drying sheets, etc. This increases user convenience and enhances the effectiveness of the drying process.

[0164] The control unit (300) can identify whether the door (40) is open or closed based on the elapse of a predetermined first time (S160, S170).

[0165] The control unit (300) can control the door (40) to be locked based on the identification that the door is closed and then start the drying process. (S171, S180)

[0166] The control unit (300) can control not to start the drying process based on the identification that the door (40) is open. (S172) This is because the drying process cannot be started when the door (40) is open, so the pause state is maintained regardless of whether the predetermined first time has elapsed.

[0167] Meanwhile, the control unit (300) can control the drying process to start after the washing process is finished based on the fact that the first command obtained from the user is a command that does not pause. (S150, S180)

[0168] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing a control method of a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0169] Referring to FIG. 8, the control unit (300) can control the garment treatment device (1) to perform at least one of a washing process and a drying process. To this end, when power is supplied to the garment treatment device (1), the control unit (300) can obtain a command from the user to select at least one of the washing process and the drying process through the user interface (100) or the communication unit (200). For example, the user can select both the washing process and the drying process (S210).

[0170] The control unit (300) may obtain a first command from the user through the user interface (100) or the communication unit (200) before starting the washing process, based on a command to select both the washing process and the drying process from the user, to determine whether to pause for a predetermined first time after the washing process is finished. (S220)

[0171] That is, the first command refers to a user's command as to whether to activate the function of temporarily stopping the garment treatment device (1) without operating it for a predetermined first time period between the washing cycle and the drying cycle.

[0172] When the first command regarding whether to pause is obtained, the control unit (300) can control to start the washing process. (S230) In addition, the control unit (300) can control to end the washing process after performing the washing process for a predetermined period of time. (S240)

[0173] When the washing process is completed, the control unit (300) can control the door (40) to be unlocked and automatically opened for a predetermined first time based on the first command obtained from the user being a pause command. In addition, the control unit (300) can automatically open the door (40) and not start the drying process (S250, S251).

[0174] By providing a pause function for a predetermined first time, the user can perform necessary actions. For example, the user can remove clothing that cannot be dried by the dryer through the automatically opened door (40) or insert drying sheets, etc. to maximize the effectiveness of the drying process. This increases user convenience and enhances the effectiveness of the drying process.

[0175] Furthermore, compared to FIG. 7, the door (40) opens automatically, eliminating the need for the user to manually open the door (40). Furthermore, the open door (40) allows the user to better recognize that the washing cycle has ended. This has the effect of prompting the user to quickly perform a predetermined action that maximizes the effectiveness of the drying cycle.

[0176] The control unit (300) can identify whether the door (40) is open or closed based on the elapse of a predetermined first time. (S260, S270)

[0177] The control unit (300) can control to lock the door (40) and then start the drying process based on the identification that the door (40) is closed (S271, S280).

[0178] The control unit (300) can control not to start the drying process based on the identification that the door (40) is open. (S272) This is because the drying process cannot be started when the door (40) is open, so the pause state is maintained regardless of whether the predetermined first time has elapsed.

[0179] According to various embodiments, the control unit (300) may automatically close the door (40) based on the identification that the door (40) is open. If the control unit (300) automatically closes the door (40), the control unit (300) may perform operations S271 and S280.

[0180] Meanwhile, the control unit (300) can control the drying process to start after the washing process is finished based on the fact that the first command obtained from the user is a command that does not pause (S250, S280).

[0181] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing a control method of a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0182] Referring to FIG. 9, the control unit (300) can control the garment treatment device (1) to perform at least one of a washing process and a drying process. To this end, when power is supplied to the garment treatment device (1), the control unit (300) can obtain a command from the user to select at least one of the washing process and the drying process through the user interface (100) or the communication unit (200). For example, the user can select both the washing process and the drying process (S310).

[0183] The control unit (300) may obtain a first command from the user through the user interface (100) or the communication unit (200) to determine whether to pause the drying process for a predetermined first time period after the end of the washing process before starting the washing process, based on a command to select both the washing process and the drying process from the user (S320).

[0184] That is, the first command refers to a user's command as to whether to activate the function of temporarily stopping the garment treatment device (1) without operating it for a predetermined first time period between the washing cycle and the drying cycle.

[0185] When the first command regarding whether to pause is obtained, the control unit (300) can control to start the washing process. (S330) In addition, the control unit (300) can control to end the washing process after performing the washing process for a predetermined period of time. (S340)

[0186] The control unit (300) can obtain a second command from the user regarding whether to pause or not through the user interface or communication unit before the washing process is completed after obtaining a first command from the user. (S335) The second command regarding whether to pause or not may be a different command from the first command.

[0187] For example, if the first command is a pause command, the second command may be a non-pause command. Conversely, if the first command is a non-pause command, the second command may be a pause command. Therefore, if the user wishes to change whether to pause or not before the end of the wash cycle, they can modify the first command via the second command.

[0188] That is, the second command refers to a user command to modify the first command regarding whether to activate the function of temporarily stopping the garment treatment device (1) without operating it for a predetermined first time period between the washing cycle and the drying cycle.

[0189] When the washing process is finished, the control unit (300) may not start the drying process for a predetermined first time based on the second command obtained from the user being a pause command. (S350, S351)

[0190] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) may not start the drying cycle by unlocking the door (40) for a predetermined first time period based on the second command obtained from the user being a pause command when the washing cycle is finished, thereby allowing the door (40) to be opened.

[0191] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) may automatically open the door (40) based on a second command obtained from the user being a pause command when the washing cycle is completed. The control unit (300) may not initiate the drying cycle for a predetermined first time period while the door (40) remains automatically opened.

[0192] By providing a pause function for a predetermined first time, the user can perform necessary actions. For example, the user can remove clothing that cannot be dried by the dryer through the door (40) opened by the user or automatically, or insert drying sheets, etc., to maximize the effectiveness of the drying process. This increases user convenience and enhances the effectiveness of the drying process.

[0193] The control unit (300) can identify whether the door (40) is open or closed based on the elapse of a predetermined first time period (S360, S370).

[0194] The control unit (300) can control to lock the door (40) and then start the drying process based on the identification that the door (40) is closed (S371, S380).

[0195] The control unit (300) can control not to start the drying process based on the identification that the door (40) is open. (S372) This is because the drying process cannot be started when the door (40) is open, so the pause state is maintained regardless of whether the predetermined first time has elapsed.

[0196] Meanwhile, the control unit (300) can control the drying process to start after the washing process is finished based on the fact that the second command obtained from the user is a command that does not pause. (S350, S380)

[0197] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) may automatically close the door (40) based on the identification that the door (40) is open (NO of S370). If the control unit (300) automatically closes the door (40), the control unit (300) may perform operations S371 and S380.

[0198] Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing a control method of a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0199] Referring to FIG. 10, the control unit (300) can control the garment treatment device (1) to perform at least one of a washing process and a drying process. To this end, when power is supplied to the garment treatment device (1), the control unit (300) can obtain a command from the user to select at least one of the washing process and the drying process through the user interface (100) or the communication unit (200). For example, the user can select both the washing process and the drying process (S410).

[0200] The control unit (300) may obtain a first command from the user through the user interface (100) or the communication unit (200) to determine whether to pause the drying process for a predetermined first time period after the end of the washing process before starting the washing process, based on a command to select both the washing process and the drying process from the user (S420).

[0201] That is, the first command refers to a user's command as to whether to activate the function of temporarily stopping the garment treatment device (1) without operating it for a predetermined first time period between the washing cycle and the drying cycle.

[0202] When the first command regarding whether to pause is obtained, the control unit (300) can control to start the washing process. (S430) In addition, the control unit (300) can control to end the washing process after performing the washing process for a predetermined period of time. (S440)

[0203] The control unit (300) can obtain a third command for a second time, which is different from the first time set in advance, from the user through the user interface (100) or the communication unit (200) before the washing process is finished after obtaining a first command to pause from the user (S435).

[0204] That is, the third command refers to a command to change the first predetermined time for the pause time to a second time before the end of the washing cycle. The second time may be greater or less than the first predetermined time.

[0205] Therefore, the user can change the existing pause time through the third command.

[0206] When the washing process is finished, the control unit (300) may not start the drying process for a second time based on the fact that the first command obtained from the user is a pause command. (S450, S451)

[0207] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) may not start the drying cycle while unlocking the door (40) to allow the door (40) to be opened for a second time based on the first command obtained from the user being a pause command when the washing cycle is finished.

[0208] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) may automatically open the door (40) based on the first command obtained from the user being a pause command when the washing cycle is finished. The control unit (300) may not start the drying cycle for a second period of time while the door (40) remains automatically opened.

[0209] By providing a second pause function, the user can perform necessary actions. For example, the user can remove clothing that cannot be dried by the dryer through the door (40) opened by the user or automatically, or insert drying sheets, etc., to maximize the effectiveness of the drying process. This increases user convenience and enhances the effectiveness of the drying process.

[0210] The control unit (300) can identify whether the door (40) is opened or closed based on the elapse of the second time (S460, S470).

[0211] The control unit (300) can control to lock the door (40) and then start the drying process based on the identification that the door (40) is closed (S471, S480).

[0212] The control unit (300) can control not to start the drying process based on the identification that the door (40) is open. (S472) This is because the drying process cannot be started when the door (40) is open, so the pause state is maintained regardless of whether the second time has elapsed.

[0213] Meanwhile, the control unit (300) can control the drying process to start after the washing process is finished based on the fact that the first command obtained from the user is a command that does not pause. (S450, S480)

[0214] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) may automatically close the door (40) based on the identification that the door (40) is open (NO in S470). If the control unit (300) automatically closes the door (40), the control unit (300) may perform operations S471 and S480.

[0215] In Fig. 9, obtaining a second command is described, and in Fig. 10, obtaining a third command is described, but it is also possible to obtain both the second and third commands after obtaining the first command.

[0216] For example, if the first command is a pause command and the user enters a third command to change the pause time, the user may also enter a second command that does not pause to modify the first command so that the pause function is not activated.

[0217] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a washing / drying washing machine can be provided that provides various conveniences by allowing a user to perform a desired operation for a predetermined period of time by providing a predetermined time interval between a washing cycle and a drying cycle.

[0218] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a washing machine can be provided that, when a washing cycle is completed, does not start a drying cycle, but instead unlocks the door or automatically opens the door, thereby creating an environment in which a user can perform a desired action for a predetermined period of time.

[0219] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a washing machine can be provided that allows a user to set whether to leave a predetermined time interval between a washing cycle and a drying cycle when both the washing cycle and the drying cycle are selected.

[0220] A garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a housing (10) having a laundry inlet (11) formed on one side; a door (40) for opening and closing the laundry inlet (11); a user interface (100); And a control unit (300) for controlling the door (40) to be opened, closed, locked, and unlocked; wherein the control unit (300) obtains a command from a user through the user interface (100) to select at least one of a washing process and a drying process, and, based on the command being obtained from the user to select both the washing process and the drying process, obtains a first command from the user through the user interface (100) before starting the washing process as to whether to pause so as not to start the drying process for a first predetermined time after the washing process is finished, and, when the first command as to whether to pause is obtained, starts the washing process, and, when the washing process is finished, based on the obtained first command being a command to pause, does not start the drying process while unlocking the door (40) for the first predetermined time, and based on the obtained first command being a command not to pause, when the washing process is finished, starts the drying process.

[0221] The control unit (300) can identify whether the door (40) is open or closed based on the passage of the first predetermined time after the washing process is completed, and can start the drying process without starting the drying process based on the door (40) being identified as open, and can start the drying process after locking the door (40) based on the door (40) being identified as closed.

[0222] The control unit (300) can obtain a second command from the user regarding whether to pause or not, which is different from the first command, through the user interface (100) before the washing process is completed after the first command is obtained from the user.

[0223] The control unit (300) may, when the washing process is finished, unlock the door (40) for the first predetermined time based on the fact that the acquired second command is a command to pause, and may not start the drying process, and, when the washing process is finished based on the fact that the acquired second command is a command to not pause, may start the drying process.

[0224] The control unit (300) may, when the washing process is finished, unlock and automatically open the door (40) for the predetermined first time based on the fact that the acquired first command is a pause command, and may not start the drying process.

[0225] The control unit (300) can identify whether the door (40) is open or closed based on the passage of the first predetermined time after the washing process is completed, and can start the drying process without starting the drying process based on the door (40) being identified as open, and can start the drying process after locking the door (40) based on the door (40) being identified as closed.

[0226] The control unit (300) can obtain a third command for a second time different from the predetermined first time from the user through the user interface (100) before the washing process is completed, based on the fact that the acquired first command is a command to pause.

[0227] The control unit (300) may, based on obtaining the third command for the second time, not start the drying process while unlocking the door (40) for the second time when the washing process is finished.

[0228] The control unit (300) can identify whether the door (40) is open or closed based on the second time elapsed after the washing process is completed, and can start the drying process without starting the door (40) based on the door (40) being identified as open, and can start the drying process after locking the door (40) based on the door (40) being identified as closed.

[0229] The above clothing treatment device (1) further includes a communication unit (200) that communicates with a user device (2), and the control unit (300) obtains a command from the user through the communication unit (200) to select at least one of the washing process and the drying process, and based on obtaining a command from the user to select both the washing process and the drying process, obtains a first command regarding whether to pause from the user through the communication unit (200).

[0230] A method for controlling a clothing treatment device (1) including a door (40) for opening and closing a laundry inlet (11) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: obtaining a command from a user through a user interface (100) to select at least one of a washing process and a drying process; obtaining, before starting the washing process, a first command from the user through the user interface (100) regarding whether to pause the drying process for a first predetermined time period after the washing process is finished based on the command being obtained; starting the washing process when the first command regarding whether to pause is obtained; when the washing process is finished, not starting the drying process while unlocking the door (40) for the first predetermined time period based on the obtained first command being a pause command; and when the washing process is finished based on the obtained first command being a non-pause command, starting the drying process.

[0231] The control method of the above clothing treatment device (1) may further include: identifying whether the door (40) is open or closed based on the passage of the first predetermined time after the washing cycle is completed; not starting the drying cycle based on the door (40) being identified as open; and starting the drying cycle after locking the door (40) based on the door (40) being identified as closed.

[0232] The method for controlling the above-mentioned clothing treatment device (1) may further include obtaining a second command from the user regarding whether to pause, which is different from the first command, through the user interface (100) before the washing process is completed after the first command is obtained from the user.

[0233] The control method of the above clothing treatment device (1) may further include: not starting the drying process while unlocking the door (40) for the first predetermined time based on the fact that the acquired second command is a pause command when the washing process is finished; and starting the drying process after the washing process is finished based on the fact that the acquired second command is a non-pause command.

[0234] The control method of the above clothing treatment device (1) may further include not starting the drying process while unlocking and automatically opening the door (40) for the first predetermined time based on the fact that the first command obtained is a pause command when the washing process is finished.

[0235] The control method of the above clothing treatment device (1) may include: identifying whether the door (40) is open or closed based on the passage of the first predetermined time after the washing cycle is completed; not starting the drying cycle based on the door (40) being identified as open; and locking the door (40) and then starting the drying cycle based on the door (40) being identified as closed.

[0236] The control method of the above clothing treatment device (1) may further include obtaining a third command for a second time different from the predetermined first time from the user through the user interface (100) before the washing process is completed, based on the fact that the obtained first command is a command to pause.

[0237] The control method of the above clothing treatment device (1) may further include: upon obtaining a third command for the second time, when the washing process is finished, unlocking the door (40) for the second time and not starting the drying process.

[0238] The control method of the above clothing treatment device (1) may further include: identifying whether the door (40) is open or closed based on the second time elapsed after the washing cycle is completed; not starting the drying cycle based on identifying that the door (40) is open; and locking the door (40) and then starting the drying cycle based on identifying that the door (40) is closed.

[0239] The method for controlling the clothing treatment device (1) may include: obtaining a command from a user to select at least one of the washing process and the drying process through a communication unit (200) that communicates with a user device (2); and obtaining a first command for whether to pause or not from the user through the communication unit (200) based on obtaining a command from the user to select both the washing process and the drying process.

[0240] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by the processor (310), may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0241] Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory (320), and optical data storage devices.

[0242] Additionally, a computer-readable recording medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0243] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated on a machine-readable recording medium, such as a memory (320) of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0244] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. A housing (10) having a laundry inlet (11) formed on one side; A door (40) for opening and closing the above laundry inlet (11); User interface (100); and It includes a control unit (300) that controls the opening, closing, locking and unlocking of the above door (40); The above control unit (300) Obtain a command to select at least one of the washing and drying processes from the user through the above user interface (100), Based on the acquisition of a command from the user to select both the washing process and the drying process, a first command is acquired from the user through the user interface (100) before starting the washing process as to whether to pause for a first predetermined time after the washing process is finished so as not to start the drying process. When the first command regarding the above suspension is obtained, the above washing process is started, When the above washing process is finished, the door (40) is unlocked for the first predetermined time based on the fact that the first command obtained is a pause command, and the drying process is not started. A clothing treatment device (1) that starts the drying process after the washing process is finished based on the fact that the first command acquired above is a command that does not pause.

2. In paragraph 1, The above control unit (300) After the above washing process is completed, based on the elapse of the above predetermined first time, whether the door (40) is opened or closed is identified, Based on the identification that the above door (40) is open, the drying process is not started, A clothes treatment device (1) that locks the door (40) and starts the drying process based on the identification that the door (40) is closed.

3. In paragraph 1, The above control unit (300) A garment treatment device (1) that obtains a second command from the user regarding whether to pause or not, which is different from the first command, through the user interface (100) before the washing process is terminated after the first command is obtained from the user.

4. In paragraph 3, The above control unit (300) When the above washing process is finished, the door (40) is unlocked for the first predetermined time based on the fact that the acquired second command is a pause command, and the drying process is not started. A clothing treatment device (1) that starts the drying process after the washing process is finished based on the fact that the second command obtained above is a command that does not pause.

5. In paragraph 1, The above control unit (300) A clothes treatment device (1) that does not start the drying process while unlocking and automatically opening the door (40) for the first predetermined time based on the fact that the first command acquired is a pause command when the washing process is finished.

6. In paragraph 5, The above control unit (300) After the above washing process is completed, based on the elapse of the above predetermined first time, whether the door (40) is opened or closed is identified, Based on the identification that the above door (40) is open, the drying process is not started, A clothes treatment device (1) that locks the door (40) and starts the drying process based on the identification that the door (40) is closed.

7. In paragraph 1, The above control unit (300) A garment treatment device (1) that obtains a third command for a second time different from the first time set in advance from the user through the user interface (100) before the washing process is terminated, based on the first command obtained above being a command to pause.

8. In paragraph 7, The above control unit (300) A clothes treatment device (1) that does not start the drying process while unlocking the door (40) for the second time period when the washing process is finished based on obtaining the third command for the second time period.

9. In paragraph 8, The above control unit (300) Based on the elapse of the second time after the above washing process is completed, whether the door (40) is opened or closed is identified, Based on the identification that the above door (40) is open, the drying process is not started, A clothes treatment device (1) that locks the door (40) and starts the drying process based on the identification that the door (40) is closed.

10. In paragraph 1, It further includes a communication unit (200) that communicates with the user device (2); The above control unit (300) Obtain a command to select at least one of the washing process and the drying process from the user through the communication unit (200), A clothing treatment device (1) that obtains a first command on whether to pause or not from the user through the communication unit (200) based on obtaining a command from the user to select both the washing process and the drying process.

11. A method for controlling a clothes treatment device (1) including a door (40) for opening and closing a laundry inlet (11), Obtaining a command to select at least one of a washing process and a drying process from a user through a user interface (100); Based on obtaining a command from the user to select both the washing process and the drying process, obtaining a first command from the user through the user interface (100) before starting the washing process as to whether to pause for a first predetermined time after the washing process is finished; When the first command for the above suspension is obtained, the washing process is started; When the washing process is finished, the door (40) is unlocked for the first predetermined time based on the fact that the first command obtained is a pause command, and the drying process is not started; and A method for controlling a garment treatment device (1), comprising: starting the drying process after the washing process is finished, based on the fact that the first command acquired above is a command that does not pause; 12. In paragraph 11, Identifying whether the door (40) is opened or closed based on the elapse of the first predetermined time after the washing process is completed; Not starting the drying process based on the identification that the above door (40) is open; and A method for controlling a garment treatment device (1), further comprising: locking the door (40) and starting a drying process based on identifying that the door (40) is closed.

13. In paragraph 11, A method for controlling a garment treatment device (1), further comprising: obtaining a second command from the user regarding whether to pause, which is different from the first command, through the user interface (100) before the washing process is terminated after the first command is obtained from the user.

14. In paragraph 13, When the washing process is finished, the door (40) is unlocked for the first predetermined time based on the fact that the acquired second command is a pause command, and the drying process is not started; and A method for controlling a garment treatment device (1), further comprising: starting the drying process after the washing process is finished, based on the fact that the second command acquired above is a command that does not pause; 15. In paragraph 11, A method for controlling a garment treatment device (1) further comprising: when the washing process is finished, unlocking and automatically opening the door (40) for a predetermined first time period based on the fact that the acquired first command is a pause command and not starting the drying process;

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