Clothing processing apparatus

Abstract

The clothing processing apparatus according to an embodiment comprises: a housing; a tub provided in the housing and including a recessed fluid channel part having a tub exhaust port and recessed toward the inside of the tub, and a fluid channel rib extending along the edge of the recessed channel part; a drum rotatably provided inside the tub; a drying device provided to supply heated air into the drum; a duct cover for covering one open side of the recessed fluid channel part; and a sealing member arranged between the tub and the duct cover to seal the exhaust fluid channel. The sealing member, which is provided between the tub and the duct cover, includes: a sealing body provided to be coupled to the fluid channel rib; an inner sealing body extending from the sealing body toward the exhaust fluid channel; and an outer sealing body extending from the sealing body in a direction away from the exhaust fluid channel.

Description

Garment processing equipment

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a garment treatment device including a drying device.

[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] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a garment treatment device with improved drying performance.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a garment treatment device having an improved structure capable of sealing an exhaust path.

[0008] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0009] According to one embodiment, a clothing treatment device includes a housing, a tub provided within the housing, the tub including a recessed flow path formed by recessing into the inside of the tub and having a tub exhaust port formed therein, a drum rotatably provided within the tub, and a drying device including a heat pump, the drying device being provided to supply heated air into the inside of the drum, a duct cover provided to be connectable to the tub and covering an open side of the recessed flow path to form an exhaust path that guides air discharged from the drum through the tub exhaust port to the drying device, and a sealing member provided between the tub and the duct cover to seal the exhaust path.

[0010] According to one embodiment, a clothing treatment device comprises a tub including a tub exhaust port formed therein and a recessed flow path formed by being recessed into the inside of the tub, and a flow path rib extending along a rim of the recessed flow path portion, a drum rotatably provided inside the tub, and a heat pump, the drying device being provided to supply heated air into the inside of the drum, a duct cover covering an open side of the recessed flow path portion and forming an exhaust flow path that guides air discharged from the drum through the tub exhaust port to the drying device, and a sealing member coupled along the flow path rib to seal the exhaust flow path, the duct cover being coupled to the tub with the sealing member interposed therebetween to seal the exhaust flow path.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates a part of a configuration arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates a part of 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.

[0015] FIG. 5 is an exploded view showing a partial configuration of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 6 is a drawing showing a state in which a sealing member is combined with a tub.

[0017] Figure 7 is a drawing showing a state before the tub and duct cover are combined with a sealing member in between.

[0018] Fig. 8 is an enlarged view of a cross-section taken along the Y-Y' line of Fig. 6, showing a state in which a tub and a duct cover are combined with a sealing member interposed therebetween.

[0019] Figure 9 is a drawing showing a state before the guide groove of the tub and the guide protrusion of the sealing member are combined.

[0020] Figure 10 is a drawing showing a state in which the guide groove of the tub and the guide protrusion of the sealing member are combined.

[0021] Figure 11 is a drawing showing a state before the fixing projection of the tub and the fixing hole of the sealing member are combined.

[0022] Figure 12 is a drawing showing a state in which the fixing projection of the tub and the fixing hole of the sealing member are combined.

[0023] 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.

[0024] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0028] 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).

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] Washing machines according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying processes. A washing machine is an example of a clothing treatment device, and the term "clothing treatment device" encompasses devices that wash clothing (laundry items, drying items), devices that dry clothing, and devices that can perform both washing and drying of clothing.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] A washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the laundry compartment. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing by a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be transparent or translucent to allow the interior of the housing to be viewed.

[0038] The washing machine may include a tub provided within the 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 the laundry inlet.

[0039] 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.

[0040] A washing machine may include a drum configured to accommodate laundry.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] The washing machine may include a control panel positioned on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface for a user to interact with the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0050] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0051] At least one input interface 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 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.

[0052] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user.

[0053] For example, at least one output interface may transmit information related to the washing cycle and operating time of the washing machine, as well as washing / rinsing / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine may be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0054] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with external devices via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0055] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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).

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] The directions of front, rear, upper, lower, left, and right are referred to uniformly throughout the specification based on the directions illustrated in the attached drawing, Fig. 1. Fig. 1 shows the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions that are perpendicular to each other, with the X-direction representing the front, the Y-direction representing the left, and the Z-direction representing the upper.

[0064] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of 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 portion of 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. FIG. 5 is an exploded view illustrating a portion of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the clothing treatment device (1) includes a housing (10) forming an exterior, a tub (20) for receiving washing water or rinsing water that can be used for a washing cycle or a rinsing cycle, a drum (30) for receiving laundry, and a driving motor (42) for rotating the drum (30).

[0066] The housing (10) may be provided in an approximately hexahedral shape. The housing (10) includes frames (10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 10e), and the frames (10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 10e) may be configured as an upper frame (10a) forming the upper surface of the housing (10), a front frame (10b) and a rear frame (10c) forming the front and rear surfaces of the housing (10), a side frame (10d) connecting the front frame (10b) and the rear frame (10c) and forming the side surface and the lower surface of the housing (10), and a lower frame (10e).

[0067] An inlet (not shown) for loading or withdrawing laundry into or from the inside of the drum (30) may be formed on the front frame (10b) of the housing (10). The inlet (not shown) may be opened and closed by a door (13) installed on the front frame (10b) of the housing (10).

[0068] A control panel (11) for controlling the operation of the garment treatment device (1) may be provided on the upper portion of the front frame (10b) of the housing (10). The control panel (11) may be provided with an input unit for inputting the operation of the garment treatment device (1), and a display unit for displaying various types of information regarding the garment treatment device (1). For example, the control panel (11) may include a display panel capable of touch input. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the control panel may include input units and displays of various forms.

[0069] A cylindrical drum (30) may be provided inside the housing (10). The drum (30) may be configured to rotate by receiving power from a driving device. The driving device that rotates the drum (30) will be described later.

[0070] The tub (20) may include a first tub (21) positioned at the inner front of the housing (10) and a second tub (22) coupled to the rear of the first tub (21). The first tub (21) may include a cylindrical portion (21a) provided in a circumferential direction.

[0071] The second tub (22) includes a tub body (22a) provided in a circumferential direction. The second tub (22) may have a tub back (200) formed on the rear side. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the tub back (200) of the second tub (22) is shown as being formed integrally with the tub body (22a), but is not limited thereto. The tub back (200) may form the rear side of the tub (20). The tub (20) may be provided by connecting the cylindrical portion (21a) of the first tub (21) and the tub body (22a) of the second tub (22).

[0072] The tub back (200) may have a through hole (230) formed in the center through which a shaft passes. The tub back (200) may have a tub exhaust port (220) formed on one side of the lower portion to which an exhaust path (P) is connected. The tub exhaust port (220) of the tub back (200) will be described later.

[0073] A tub back (200) may have a plurality of ribs (201) formed at the rear. The plurality of ribs (201) may include annular ribs (201a) and radial ribs (201b). The annular ribs (201a) may have different radii centered on the through hole (230).

[0074] The radial ribs (201b) may extend radially from the through hole (230). Additionally, the radial ribs (201b) may extend through the annular ribs (201a).

[0075] A water supply device (90) for supplying washing water to the tub (20) may be placed on the upper part of the tub (20). The water supply device (90) may be placed at the rear of the drying device (70).

[0076] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a detergent supply device (95) for supplying detergent to the tub (20). The detergent supply device (95) may include a first detergent supply device (95a) arranged at the bottom of the tub (20). The detergent supply device (95) may include a second detergent supply device (95b) arranged at the top of the tub (20).

[0077] A drainage device (93) for discharging washing water used in washing to the outside of the housing (10) is arranged at the bottom of the tub (20). The drainage device (93) may include a drainage pump (93a) for discharging water inside the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10), a connection hose (93b) for connecting the tub (20) and the drainage pump (93a) so that water inside the tub (20) can flow into the drainage pump (93a), and a drainage hose for guiding water pumped by the drainage pump (93a) to the outside of the housing (10).

[0078] The tub (20) is supported by a damper (16). The damper (16) connects the lower frame (10e) of the housing (10) and the outer surface of the tub (20). The damper (16) may also be positioned on the upper side, left and right sides in addition to the lower frame of the housing (10) to support the tub (20).

[0079] The drum (30) may include a drum body (32), a drum front (31), and a drum back (34).

[0080] The drum body (32) may be formed into a hollow cylindrical shape with open front and rear ends. A plurality of holes (32a) may be formed in the cylindrical drum body (32) for the flow of washing water. A plurality of lifters (33) may be installed on the inner circumference of the drum body (32) so that laundry can rise and fall when the drum (30) rotates.

[0081] The drum front (31) can be placed at the front end of the drum body (32), and the drum back (34) can be placed at the rear end of the drum body (32).

[0082] A coupling hole (35) may be provided on the side of the drum body (32). A coupling hole (35) may be provided at the rear end of the drum body (32) so that a drum bag (34) can be coupled thereto. A plurality of coupling holes (35) may be formed. The coupling holes (35) are provided so as to fix a flange shaft (60) installed on the drum bag (34). The coupling holes (35) may be formed to correspond to the flange shaft (60). The coupling holes (35) may be formed to be spaced apart at regular intervals along the circumferential direction of the drum body (32) so as to correspond to the flange shaft (60).

[0083] The drum front (31) may be provided to correspond to the front opening of the drum body (32). The drum back (34) may be provided to correspond to the rear opening of the drum body (32).

[0084] The drum back (34) can be formed into a circular shape so as to block the rear opening of the drum body (32).

[0085] The garment treatment device (1) may include a driving device (40) configured to rotate a drum (30). The driving device (40) may include a driving motor (42) and a rotary shaft (41) connected to the drum (30) to transmit driving force generated by the driving motor (42) to the drum (30). A rotary shaft (41) for transmitting the power of the driving motor (42) is connected to a drum back (34) of the drum (30). The drum (30) is rotated within the tub (20) by the rotary force transmitted through the rotary shaft (41).

[0086] A driving motor (42) may be provided on the outside of the tub (20). The driving motor (42) may be connected to the drum (30) via a rotating shaft (41). The rotating shaft (41) passes through the tub back (200) of the tub (20) and is rotatably supported by a bearing (52) and a bearing housing (51).

[0087] The drive motor (42) may include a stator fixed to the outside of the tub back (200) and a rotor that is rotatably provided and connected to a rotating shaft (41). The rotor may electromagnetically interact with the stator to convert rotational electrical power into mechanical rotational power. The rotation of the rotor may be transmitted to the drum (30) through the rotating shaft (41).

[0088] The drum back (34) can be connected to a rotary shaft (41) via a flange shaft (60). The flange shaft (60) can be provided to transmit power from a driving motor (42).

[0089] The flange shaft (60) may include a hub portion (61) positioned at the center of the drum back (34) and a plurality of flange portions (62) extending radially from the hub portion (61). A shaft coupling portion (63) for installing a rotating shaft (41) may be formed at the center of the hub portion (61).

[0090] A plurality of flange portions (62) may be formed at approximately 120-degree intervals centered on the hub portion (61). The plurality of flange portions (62) may be formed to correspond to the diameter of the drum bag (34). A plurality of fastening holes (64) may be formed at one end of each flange portion (62). The plurality of fastening holes (64) may be formed to correspond to the coupling holes (35) of the drum (30). In the embodiment of the present invention, the fastening holes are illustrated as two being formed in one flange portion, but the spirit of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the fastening holes may be formed in various ways depending on the size and shape of the drum and the flange portion.

[0091] A rotary shaft (41) is arranged between the drum (30) and the driving motor (42). One end of the rotary shaft (41) is connected to the drum back (34), and the other end extends to the outside of the tub back (200). When the driving motor (42) drives the rotary shaft (41), the drum (30) connected to the rotary shaft (41) rotates around the rotary shaft (41).

[0092] A bearing housing (51) is installed in the tub back (200) to rotatably support the rotating shaft (41). The bearing housing (51) may be made of an aluminum alloy. For example, the bearing housing (51) may be formed of aluminum die casting (ALDC). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the bearing housing (51) may also be formed of stainless steel. It is sufficient that the bearing housing (51) is formed of a material having a higher strength than the material forming the tub (20).

[0093] The bearing housing (51) can be inserted into the tub back (200) of the second tub (22) when injection molding the tub (20).

[0094] Bearings (52) can be installed between the bearing housing (51) and the rotary shaft (41) so that the rotary shaft (41) can rotate smoothly.

[0095] The clothing treatment device (1) may further include a drying device (70) that is arranged to heat air and supply it to the interior of the tub (20). The drying device (70) may be configured to dry and heat air discharged from the tub (20) and circulate the heated air into the interior of the tub (20) to dry clothing inside the drum (30).

[0096] The drying device (70) may be provided on the upper part of the tub (20), but the location is not limited thereto.

[0097] A drying device (70) may include a drying device body (70a) in which a heat pump for drying air may be installed, and a drying device cover (70b) that covers the drying device body (70a) to form a duct through which air may flow. The drying device cover (70b) may cover the upper surface of the drying device body (70a). By combining the drying device cover (70b) with the drying device body (70a), a duct through which air may flow may be formed.

[0098] The drying device (70) may be configured in a heat pump manner. The drying device (70) may include a compressor (71), a condenser (72), an evaporator (73), an expansion valve (not shown), and a refrigerant pipe (75) so that the refrigerant circulates and exchanges heat. The compressor (71), condenser (72), evaporator (73), etc., which constitute the heat pump, may be arranged in the drying device body (70a).

[0099] The compressor (71) compresses the refrigerant, and the compressed high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant is transferred to the condenser (72). The condenser (72) can cool the refrigerant and heat the surrounding air. The heated air can be introduced into the drum (30) to dry the laundry.

[0100] The refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve can absorb heat in the evaporator (73) and cool the surrounding air. That is, the evaporator (73) can cool the high-temperature, humid air that has passed through the drum (30) and remove moisture. The air from which moisture has been removed passes through the condenser (72) and can be reheated through heat exchange with the refrigerant within the condenser (72). That is, the condenser (72) can heat the air that has passed through the evaporator (73).

[0101] In addition, the drying device (70) may further include a heater (80) in addition to a heat pump to increase drying efficiency. However, the drying device (70) may also be configured as a heater type, including only a heater (80) rather than a heat pump type.

[0102] The heater (80) can heat the air introduced into the drying device (70). The heater (80) can be placed in the heating duct (77). The heater (80) can be placed downstream of the condenser (72). In addition, the heater (80) can be provided in a small size so as to minimize the resistance of the air path. For example, the heater (80) can be a sheath heater.

[0103] The drying device (70) may be placed on the upper side of the tub (20). The upper side of the tub (20) may include an inlet duct (76) through which air is introduced into the drying device (70), a heating duct (77) through which a condenser (72) and an evaporator (73) are placed, and a supply duct (78) through which air heated in the drying device (70) is supplied into the interior of the drum (30).

[0104] An inlet duct (76) is provided so that air passing through the inside of the tub (20) can be introduced into the drying device (70). The inlet duct (76) may be arranged on the upper side of the tub (20). The inlet duct (76) may be connected to an exhaust passage (P) formed at the rear of the tub (20). Specifically, the inlet duct (76) may include an inlet duct head (76a) forming an inlet of the inlet duct (76). Air passing through the exhaust passage (P) can be introduced into the drying device (70) through the inlet duct head (76a).

[0105] A filter (81) may be provided in the inlet duct (76) 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 (76) may flow to the heating duct (77) through the filter (81).

[0106] The heating duct (77) may be configured to heat the incoming air. The incoming air may be hot and humid as it has passed through the inside of the tub (20). The hot and humid air may be cooled in an evaporator (73) located in the heating duct (77) to remove moisture. Thereafter, the air may be reheated by passing through a condenser (72).

[0107] The supply duct (78) can supply heated air back into the tub (20) through the condenser (72). The supply duct (78) is connected to the heating duct (77) and can extend downward to discharge heated air toward the opening of the tub (20).

[0108] The supply duct (78) may include a blower fan (78a) to force air into the tub (20). That is, the blower fan (78a) may force air into the drum (30) and supply it to the laundry. The blower fan (78a) may be a sirocco fan.

[0109] In this way, the inlet duct (76) and the supply duct (78) can circulate air inside the tub (20) and into the drying device (70).

[0110] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the clothing treatment device (1) may be configured to allow air to be introduced into the drying device (70) through an inlet duct (76) provided on the upper side of the tub (20). Air heated in the drying device (70) may be supplied into the interior of the drum (30) through a supply duct (78) provided on the upper side of the tub (20).

[0111] 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 making the overall size of the product compact. In addition, the distance through which air circulates between the inside of the drum (30) and the drying device (70) can be shortened, thereby improving drying efficiency.

[0112] The clothing treatment device (1) may further include an exhaust passage (P) provided to supply air discharged from the tub (20) to the drying device (70). The exhaust passage (P) may be connected to an inlet duct (76) of the drying device (70).

[0113] The exhaust path (P) is provided to discharge moist air that has passed through the tub (20). The exhaust path (P) may be provided at the rear of the tub (20), but the location is not limited thereto.

[0114] A portion of the exhaust passage (P) may be formed by a sunken passage portion (210). Additionally, the exhaust passage (P) may be formed by a duct cover (100) covering the sunken passage portion (210). The exhaust passage (P) may be additionally formed by a duct connection portion (250) to be described later.

[0115] The sunken guage portion (210) may be formed by at least a portion of the tub back (200) being sunken into the inside of the tub (20). The sunken guage portion (210) may be positioned forward of the tub back (200).

[0116] The sunken guage portion (210) may be formed in a portion of the tub back (200) where a plurality of ribs (201) are not formed. The sunken guage portion (210) may be positioned forward of the plurality of ribs (201) formed in the tub back (200).

[0117] Since the sunken urea section (210) is positioned forward of the tub back (200) or the plurality of ribs (201) formed in the tub back (200), the rear space of the tub back (200) can be secured. Accordingly, a larger drum (30) and tub (20) can be accommodated in a housing (10) of the same size, thereby improving the space efficiency of the garment treatment device (1).

[0118] A tub exhaust port (220) may be formed in the sunken duct portion (210). The tub exhaust port (220) may be formed by penetrating a portion of the tub back (200) forming the sunken duct portion (210).

[0119] Air inside the tub (20) can flow into the exhaust path (P) through the tub exhaust port (220). The moved air can flow along the exhaust path (P) and be supplied to the drying device (70).

[0120] Heated air from the drying device (70) can be supplied into the drum (30). At this time, it is necessary to secure an area where the heated air supplied into the drum (30) comes into contact with the laundry. The longer the distance and time that the heated air flows within the drum (30), the more it can come into contact with the laundry. Therefore, the tub exhaust port (220) can be formed in a location opposite to the location where the heated air from the drying device (70) is discharged.

[0121] The supply duct (78) that supplies heated air into the drum (30) and the tub exhaust port (220) can be positioned as far apart as possible. The supply duct (78) and the tub exhaust port (220) can be positioned diagonally. For example, if heated air is supplied from the upper right side of the drum front (31), the tub exhaust port (220) can be provided at the lower left side of the tub back (200). In this way, the drying efficiency can be improved by increasing the area where the heated air comes into contact with the laundry.

[0122] However, the invention is not limited thereto, and the tub exhaust port (220) and the supply duct (78) may be provided in different locations depending on the area of ​​the tub exhaust port (220) or the air volume of the blower fan (78a). For example, in this illustration, the tub exhaust port (220) is shown as being located at the lower side of the tub (20), but it may also be formed at the upper side of the tub (20).

[0123] The exhaust passage (P) can be formed by the duct cover (100) covering one open side of the sunken passage section (210). The exhaust passage (P) can be a single passage formed by the sunken passage section (210) and the duct cover (100) together.

[0124] The duct cover (100) can be coupled to the tub back (200). The duct cover (100) can form an exhaust path (P) through which air discharged through the tub exhaust port (220) flows to the drying device (70). Specifically, the duct cover (100) can be coupled to cover an open side of a recessed path portion (210) formed in the tub back (200). The manner in which the duct cover (100) is coupled to the tub back (200) will be described later.

[0125] The tub (20) may include a duct connection portion (250) that protrudes outward from the tub body (22a). Specifically, the duct connection portion (250) may protrude upward from the tub body (22a). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the duct connection portion (250) may be positioned in various ways depending on the location of the drying device (70).

[0126] The duct connection (250) can connect the drying device (70) and the sunken passage (210). The duct connection (250) 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 sunken passage (210) and the duct cover (100).

[0127] The duct connection (250) may be covered by a duct cover (100). The duct connection (250) may have one side open. The duct cover (100) may cover the open side of the duct connection (250).

[0128] The duct cover (100) can cover both the sunken passage section (210) and the duct connection section (250). Specifically, the duct cover (100) can cover both the open side of the sunken passage section (210) and the open side of the duct connection section (250). An exhaust passage (P) can be formed by the duct cover (100) covering the sunken passage section (210) and the duct connection section (250).

[0129] Although not shown, the duct cover (100) may only cover the sunken duct portion (210).

[0130] Air introduced through the tub exhaust port (220) formed in the tub back (200) can be communicated to the drying device (70) through the sunken duct section (210), duct cover (100), and duct connection (250).

[0131] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a water supply device (90) configured to supply water to the tub (20). The water supply device (90) may include a water supply guide (91) and a water supply valve (not shown). The water supply valve (not shown) may be connected to an external water source. The water supply guide (91) may guide water from the water supply valve (not shown) to the tub (20). The water supply guide (91) may extend from the water supply valve (not shown) to the tub (20).

[0132] The water supply valve (not shown) can open or close the water supply guide (91) in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valve (not shown) can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub (20). The water supply valve (not shown) may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0133] The water supply guide (91) can supply water supplied from an external water source to the exhaust path (P). The water supplied to the exhaust path (P) can flow into the interior of the tub (20) through the tub exhaust port (221, 222, 223).

[0134] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 6 to 12, a sealing member provided to prevent water or air passing through the exhaust path (P) from leaking out between the duct cover (100) and the exhaust path (P) will be described.

[0135] Fig. 6 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a sealing member is coupled to a tub. Fig. 7 is a drawing illustrating a state before the tub and the duct cover are coupled with the sealing member interposed therebetween. Fig. 8 is an enlarged drawing illustrating a state in which the tub and the duct cover are coupled with the sealing member interposed therebetween.

[0136] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, the clothing treatment device (1) may include a guiding rib (212) extending along the edge of the sunken guiding portion (210). The guiding rib (212) may be formed by protruding from the tub back (200).

[0137] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a sealing member (500) that is arranged to be coupled to a duct rib (212). A duct cover (100) may be coupled to a tub (20) with the sealing member (500) interposed therebetween. The duct cover (100) may form an exhaust duct (P) by covering an open side of a sunken duct portion (210).

[0138] The exhaust path (P) can guide air discharged through the tub exhaust ports (221, 222, 223) inside the tub (20) to the drying device (70, see Fig. 4). Therefore, it is necessary to seal the exhaust path (P) so that the air passing through it does not leak out to the outside.

[0139] In addition, the clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can supply water to the interior of the tub (20) through an exhaust passage (P). Specifically, water supplied through a water supply valve (not shown) can pass through a water supply guide (91) and flow into a water supply port (140) that is in communication with the exhaust passage (P). That is, the exhaust passage (P) needs to be sealed to prevent the supplied water from leaking out to the outside.

[0140] The sealing member (500) is coupled on the duct rib (212) extending along the edge of the sunken duct portion (210), and the duct cover (100) can be coupled thereon. That is, the sealing member (500) can seal the gap created at the portion where the duct cover (100) and the tub (20) are coupled to form an exhaust duct (P).

[0141] The sealing member (500) may be formed to correspond to the shape of the euro rib (212) in order to be coupled to the euro rib (212). The sealing member (500) may be formed of a material for sealing, such as rubber, silicone, or neoprene. However, the material forming the sealing member (500) is not limited thereto.

[0142] The urea rib (212) may include an inclined rib (2121) positioned closer to the sunken urea portion (210). That is, the inclined rib (2121) may be positioned at the innermost side among the urea ribs (212). An exhaust urea path (P) may be formed on the inner side of the inclined rib (2121). That is, the inclined rib (2121) may be a portion forming the exhaust urea path (P).

[0143] The inclined rib (2121) may include an inclined surface (2121a) whose protruding height increases as it approaches the sunken passage section (210). That is, the closer it gets to the sunken passage section (210), the more the protruding height from the tub back (200) may increase.

[0144] The duct cover (100) may include a connecting portion (130) positioned corresponding to the inclined rib (2121). The connecting portion (130) may be a portion connecting the cover portion (120) and the fastening flange portion (110). Since the cover portion (120) and the fastening flange portion (110) are formed in a stepped manner, at least a portion of the connecting portion (130) may be positioned with the inclined surface (2121a) of the inclined rib (2121).

[0145] The euro rib (212) may include a fixed rib (2122) positioned further from the sunken euro section (210) than the inclined rib (2121).

[0146] The fixed rib (2122) may have a constant height. That is, the protruding height may be constant regardless of the distance from the sunken urea section (210).

[0147] The euro rib (212) may include an insertion groove (2123) formed between the inclined rib (2121) and the fixed rib (2122). The insertion groove (2123) may be provided so that a portion of the sealing member (500) may be inserted therein. The cross-section of the insertion groove (2123) may be approximately a rectangular shape with one side open.

[0148] The inclined rib (2121) and the fixed rib (2122) can be formed at positions spaced apart from each other. An insertion groove (2123) can be formed at a position spaced apart between the inclined rib (2121) and the fixed rib (2122).

[0149] The tub (20) may include a tap hole (212a) formed on the outside of the euro rib (212). The tap hole (212a) may be formed spaced apart along the euro rib (212). The tap hole (212a) may be configured to fasten the duct cover (100) and the tub (20).

[0150] The sealing member (500) may include a sealing body (510) that is arranged to be inserted into the insertion groove (2123).

[0151] The sealing body (510) can be inserted into the insertion groove (2123). The sealing body (510) can be in close contact with the insertion groove (2123). The sealing body (510) can be formed to have approximately the same width so that it can be in close contact with the insertion groove (2123).

[0152] The sealing body (510) may include a groove blocking portion (511) that protrudes obliquely in a direction opposite to the insertion direction into the insertion groove (2123). The groove blocking portion (511) may be pressed in a direction opposite to the insertion direction when the sealing body (510) is inserted. Accordingly, the groove blocking portion (511) may be pressed more closely against the side surface of the insertion groove (2123).

[0153] The home blocking portion (511) can be formed on both sides of the sealing body (510). The home blocking portion (511) can be formed symmetrically to the sealing body (510).

[0154] The sealing body (510) may include a groove blocking portion (511) that protrudes in a direction opposite to the direction in which it is inserted into the insertion groove (2123).

[0155] The sealing body (510) may include an intermediate blocking portion (512) protruding toward the duct cover (100).

[0156] The intermediate blocking portion (512) may be formed to be inclined toward the exhaust path (P). When the intermediate blocking portion (512) is pressurized by the duct cover (100), it may be brought into closer contact with the duct cover (100).

[0157] As water or air moves through the exhaust passage (P), the internal pressure of the exhaust passage (P) may be higher than the external pressure of the exhaust passage (P). Therefore, pressure may be applied from the inside of the exhaust passage (P) toward the outside.

[0158] Since the intermediate blocking portion (512) is formed to be inclined toward the exhaust passage (P), it can be prevented from being deformed by pressure acting from the inside to the outside of the exhaust passage (P). As a result, moisture or air can be prevented from leaking out from the exhaust passage (P).

[0159] The sealing member (500) may include an inner sealing body (520) provided to block moisture or air from flowing out from the exhaust path (P) to the insertion groove (2123).

[0160] The inner sealing body (520) may extend from the sealing body (510). The inner sealing body (520) may extend from the sealing body (510) toward the exhaust path (P). In other words, the inner sealing body (520) may be positioned more inwardly with respect to the sealing body (510).

[0161] The inner sealing body (520) may be positioned to be in contact with the inclined rib (2121). The inner sealing body (520) is in close contact with the inclined rib (2121) and can block moisture or air from leaking out from the exhaust path (P). That is, the inner sealing body (520) can prevent moisture or air from leaking between the inner sealing body (520) and the inclined rib (2121).

[0162] Additionally, the inner sealing body (520) may be in contact with the duct cover (100). The inner sealing body (520) can prevent moisture or air from leaking between the duct cover (100) and the inner sealing body (520).

[0163] The inner sealing body (520) may include a cover contact portion (521) provided to come into contact with the duct cover (100).

[0164] The cover contact portion (521) may extend toward the duct cover (100). That is, the cover contact portion (521) may extend toward the rear of the tub (20). When the duct cover (100) is coupled with the tub (20) with the sealing member (500) interposed therebetween, the cover contact portion (521) may be pressurized. That is, the contact area between the duct cover (100) and the cover contact portion (521) may be expanded and may be more closely sealed. Accordingly, the sealing performance of the cover contact portion (521) may be improved.

[0165] The cover contact portion (521) may include a first cover contact surface (5211) that comes into contact with the duct cover (100). Specifically, the first cover contact surface (5211) may come into contact with at least a portion of the connecting portion (130) of the duct cover (100).

[0166] The cover contact portion (521) may include a second cover contact surface (5212) provided on the opposite side of the first cover contact surface (5211). The second cover contact surface (5212) may be provided on the opposite side of the duct cover (100). The second cover contact surface (5212) may be in contact with the inclined surface contact portion (522).

[0167] The inner sealing body (520) may include an inclined surface contact portion (522) provided to come into contact with the inclined rib (2121).

[0168] The inclined surface contact portion (522) can be in contact with the inclined surface (2121a) of the inclined rib (2121). The inclined surface (2121a) can be designed to increase in height as it moves toward the exhaust path (P). When the duct cover (100) is coupled to the tub (20) with the sealing member (500) interposed therebetween, the inclined surface contact portion (522) can be pressurized while in contact with the inclined surface (2121a).

[0169] The inclined surface contact portion (522) can be deformed so that its height increases along the inclined surface (2121a) toward the exhaust path (P). The inclined surface contact portion (522) can be brought into close contact between the connecting portion (130) of the duct cover (100) and the inclined surface (2121a).

[0170] In this way, the inner sealing body (520) includes a cover contact portion (521) that is in close contact with the duct cover (100) side and an inclined surface contact portion (522) that is in close contact with the inclined rib (2121) side, so that moisture or air passing through the exhaust passage (P) can be effectively prevented from leaking.

[0171] The cover contact portion (521) and the inclined surface contact portion (522) may not contact each other before the duct cover (100) is coupled to the tub (20) with the sealing member (500) interposed therebetween. The cover contact portion (521) and the inclined surface contact portion (522) may be elastically deformed by the pressure of the duct cover (100).

[0172] The inclined surface contact portion (522) may include a first inclined surface contact portion (5221) that comes into contact with the tub (20). Specifically, the first inclined surface contact portion (5221) may come into contact with the inclined surface (2121a).

[0173] The inclined surface contact portion (522) may include a second inclined contact portion (5222) located on the opposite side from the first inclined contact portion (5221). The second inclined contact portion (5222) may be in contact with the cover contact portion (521).

[0174] When the duct cover (100) and the tub (20) are joined with the sealing member (500) therebetween, the cover contact portion (521) and the inclined surface contact portion (522) can be in contact. That is, when the duct cover (100) is joined to the tub (20) to form an exhaust passage (P), the second cover contact surface (5212) of the cover contact portion (521) can be in contact with the second inclined contact surface (5222) of the inclined surface contact portion (522). This can prevent foreign substances such as moisture, dust, and lint from remaining between the second cover contact surface (5212) and the second inclined contact surface (5222).

[0175] When the duct cover (100) is separated from the tub (20), i.e., when the duct cover (100) is separated from the euro rib (212), the second cover contact surface (5212) and the second inclined contact surface (5222) can be spaced apart from each other.

[0176] The cover contact portion (521) and the inclined surface contact portion (522) of the inner sealing body (520) can fill the space between the duct cover (100) and the inclined rib (2121) while in contact with each other. Specifically, the cover contact portion (521) and the inclined surface contact portion (522) can be formed in an approximately linear shape between the duct cover (100) and the inclined rib (2121). That is, the cover contact portion (521) and the inclined surface contact portion (522) can be formed to minimize a gap in which foreign substances may accumulate around the cover contact portion.

[0177] The sealing member (500) may include an outer sealing body (530) provided to block moisture flowing from the exhaust path (P) to the fixed rib (2121).

[0178] The outer sealing body (530) may extend from the sealing body (510). Specifically, the outer sealing body (530) may extend outward from the sealing body (510) opposite to the exhaust path (P).

[0179] The outer sealing body (530) may be positioned between the fixed rib (2122) and the duct cover (100). That is, the outer sealing body (530) may be in close contact with the fixed rib (2122) and the duct cover (100). The outer sealing body (530) may be formed approximately perpendicular to the sealing body (510), but is not limited thereto.

[0180] The outer sealing body (530) may include a first blocking portion (531) protruding toward the duct cover (100).

[0181] The first blocking portion (531) can be in close contact with the duct cover (100). The first blocking portion (531) can be elastically deformed when pressed by the duct cover (100). The first blocking portion (531) can be formed to block moisture or air from leaking between the sealing member (500) and the duct cover (100).

[0182] The outer sealing body (530) may include a second blocking portion (532) protruding toward the fixed rib (2122).

[0183] The second blocking portion (532) can be in close contact with the fixed rib (2122). The second blocking portion (532) can be elastically deformed when pressed by the fixed rib (2122). The second blocking portion (532) can be formed to block moisture or air from leaking between the sealing member (500) and the fixed rib (2122).

[0184] The first blocking portion (531) and / or the second blocking portion (532) may be formed in multiple pieces. When the first blocking portion (531) and / or the second blocking portion (532) are formed in multiple pieces, the step of preventing moisture or air from leaking increases, so the sealing efficiency may also increase.

[0185] Meanwhile, since the exhaust passage (P) is a passage through which water or air moves, the internal pressure of the exhaust passage (P) may be higher than the external pressure of the exhaust passage (P). Therefore, pressure may be applied from the inside of the exhaust passage (P) toward the outside.

[0186] The first blocking portion (531) and the second blocking portion (532) may be formed to be inclined toward the exhaust passage (P). The first blocking portion (531) may be pressurized toward the exhaust passage (P) by the duct cover (100). The second blocking portion (532) may be pressurized toward the exhaust passage (P) by the fixed rib (2122). That is, the first blocking portion (531) and the second blocking portion (532) may be inclined in a direction opposite to the pressure acting from the inside of the exhaust passage (P) toward the outside. Therefore, the first blocking portion (531) and the second blocking portion (532) may be prevented from being deformed by the pressure acting from the inside of the exhaust passage (P) toward the outside. As a result, moisture or air may be prevented from leaking out from the exhaust passage (P) to the outside.

[0187] A sealing member (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least three stages of blocking structures to prevent leakage between the duct cover (100). Specifically, in order to leak between the duct cover (100) and the sealing member (500), it may have to pass through the cover contact portion (521), the intermediate blocking portion (512), and the first blocking portion (531).

[0188] Meanwhile, the sealing member (500) may include at least five stages of blocking structures to prevent leakage between the sealing member (500) and the uro rib (212). Specifically, in order to leak between the uro rib (212) and the sealing member (500), it may have to pass through the inclined contact portion (522), the sealing body (510) including a pair of groove blocking portions (511), and the second blocking portion (532).

[0189] In this way, the sealing member (500) according to one embodiment includes a multi-stage blocking structure to prevent water or air from leaking from the exhaust passage (P), thereby improving drying performance. In addition, various problems that may occur in the clothing treatment device (1) due to water leakage can be prevented.

[0190] Fig. 9 is a drawing showing a state before the guide groove of the tub and the guide protrusion of the sealing member are combined. Fig. 10 is a drawing showing a state after the guide groove of the tub and the guide protrusion of the sealing member are combined.

[0191] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the tub (20) may include a guide groove (241) formed on the outside of the fixed rib (212). Correspondingly, the sealing member (500) may include a guide protrusion (541) that is provided to be inserted into the guide groove (241).

[0192] The sealing member (500) can be temporarily fixed by inserting the guide protrusion (541) into the guide groove (241). That is, before the sealing member (500) is inserted into the insertion groove (2123) of the euro rib (212), the sealing member (500) can be temporarily fixed by first inserting the guide protrusion (541) into the guide groove (241).

[0193] A guide groove (241) may be provided in the euro connection portion (250). Specifically, the guide groove (241) may be located on the upper side of the portion of the euro rib (212) located in the euro connection portion (250). However, the position of the guide groove (241) is not limited thereto.

[0194] The guide grooves (241) may be provided in pairs to secure both the left and right sides of the sealing member (500). However, this is not limited to this, and the guide grooves (241) may be provided in one piece, or in three or more pieces.

[0195] The guide protrusions (541) of the sealing member (500) may be formed to correspond to the number and positions of the guide grooves (241). The tub (20) may include the guide protrusions, and the sealing member (500) may be configured to include the guide grooves. In addition, without being limited thereto, as long as the tub (20) and the sealing member (500) can be temporarily fixed to each other, the guide grooves (241) and the guide protrusions (541) may be provided in any configuration. For example, the tub (20) may include a hooking structure so that the sealing member (500) is maintained in a hooked state on the tub (20).

[0196] Below, another configuration for temporarily fixing the sealing member (500) to the tub (20) is described.

[0197] Fig. 11 is a drawing showing a state before the fixing projection of the tub and the fixing hole of the sealing member are combined. Fig. 12 is a drawing showing a state after the fixing projection of the tub and the fixing hole of the sealing member are combined.

[0198] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the tub (20) may include a fixing protrusion (242) formed on the outside of the euro rib (212). Correspondingly, the sealing member (500) may include a fixing hole (542) into which the fixing protrusion (242) is inserted.

[0199] The sealing member (500) can be fixed by inserting the fixing protrusion (242) into the fixing hole (542). Specifically, by inserting the fixing protrusion (242) into the fixing hole (542), the sealing member (500) can be temporarily fixed before being inserted into the insertion groove (2123).

[0200] The fixing protrusions (242) may be formed in multiple numbers spaced apart along the euro rib (212). Correspondingly, the fixing holes (542) may also be formed in multiple numbers spaced apart along the sealing member (500).

[0201] However, without being limited thereto, the tub (20) may be configured to include a fixing hole, and the sealing member (500) may be configured to include a fixing protrusion.

[0202] The sealing member (500) is elongated to correspond to the euro rib (212) and is made of an elastic material, so it can be easily deformed. Therefore, it may be somewhat inconvenient to attach the sealing member (500) to the insertion groove (2123) of the euro rib (212).

[0203] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the tub (20) and the sealing member (500) can improve manufacturing efficiency through a temporary fixing structure composed of a fixing protrusion (242) and a fixing hole (542).

[0204] According to the present disclosure, the drying performance of a garment treatment device can be improved.

[0205] According to the present disclosure, the exhaust path can be sealed.

[0206] 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 will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the description below.

[0207] According to one embodiment, a clothing treatment device includes a housing, a tub provided within the housing, the tub including a recessed flow path formed by recessing into the inside of the tub and having a tub exhaust port formed therein, a drum rotatably provided within the tub, and a drying device including a heat pump, the drying device being provided to supply heated air into the inside of the drum, a duct cover provided to be connectable to the tub and covering an open side of the recessed flow path to form an exhaust path that guides air discharged from the drum through the tub exhaust port to the drying device, and a sealing member provided between the tub and the duct cover to seal the exhaust path.

[0208] The above tub may further include a urea rib (212) extending along the edge of the sunken urea portion, and the sealing member may include a sealing body (510) arranged to be coupled to the urea rib.

[0209] The above sealing body may include an intermediate blocking portion (512) that protrudes toward the duct cover and is formed to be inclined toward the exhaust passage.

[0210] The above-mentioned euro rib may include an insertion groove (2123) into which the sealing member is inserted.

[0211] The above sealing body may include a groove blocking portion (511) that protrudes obliquely in a direction opposite to the direction in which the sealing body is inserted into the insertion groove.

[0212] The above-mentioned euro rib may further include an inclined rib (2121) that is positioned closer to the sunken euro section than the insertion groove and includes an inclined surface (2121a) whose protruding height increases as it moves toward the sunken euro section, and a fixed rib (2122) that is positioned on the opposite side of the inclined rib with respect to the insertion groove.

[0213] The above tub may include a fixing projection (242) formed on the outside of the fixing rib to fix the sealing member, and the sealing member may include a fixing hole (542) into which the fixing projection is inserted.

[0214] The above tub includes a guide groove (241) formed on the outside of the above fixed rib, and the sealing member may further include a guide protrusion (541) provided to be inserted into the guide groove.

[0215] The above sealing member may include an inner sealing body (520) extending from the sealing body to block moisture from flowing out from the exhaust passage into the insertion groove.

[0216] The inner sealing body may include a cover contact portion (521) extending toward the duct cover to make contact with the duct cover, and an inclined surface contact portion (522) extending toward the inclined surface of the inclined rib to make contact with the inclined surface.

[0217] The cover contact portion may include a first cover contact surface (5211) that comes into contact with the duct cover, and a second cover contact surface (5212) located on an opposite side to the first cover contact surface, and the inclined surface contact portion may include a first inclined contact surface (5221) that comes into contact with the inclined surface, and a second inclined contact surface (5222) located on an opposite side to the first inclined contact surface.

[0218] When the duct cover is coupled to the tub, the second cover contact surface and the second inclined contact surface are brought into contact with each other, and when the duct cover is separated from the tub, the second cover contact surface and the second inclined contact surface can be separated from each other.

[0219] The above sealing member may include an outer sealing body (530) extending from the sealing body to block moisture flowing from the exhaust passage to the fixed rib.

[0220] The above outer sealing body may include a first blocking portion (531) protruding toward the duct cover and a second blocking portion (532) protruding toward the fixed rib.

[0221] The first blocking portion and the second blocking portion may be formed to be inclined toward the exhaust passage.

[0222] According to one embodiment, a clothing treatment device includes a tub (20) having a recessed flow path portion (210) formed by recessing into the inside of the tub, a flow path rib (212) extending along the edge of the recessed flow path portion, a drum (30) rotatably provided inside the tub, and a drying device including a heat pump, wherein the drying device (70) is provided to supply heated air into the inside of the drum, a duct cover (100) covering an open side of the recessed flow path portion and forming an exhaust flow path that guides air discharged from the drum through the tub exhaust port to the drying device, and a sealing member (500) coupled along the flow path rib to seal the exhaust flow path, the duct cover being coupled to the tub with the sealing member interposed therebetween to seal the exhaust flow path.

[0223] The above-mentioned euro rib may include an inclined rib (2121) formed on the exhaust passage side and having a height that increases as it protrudes toward the exhaust passage, and a fixed rib (2122) formed at a position spaced apart from the inclined rib to form an insertion groove into which the sealing member is inserted.

[0224] The above sealing member may include a sealing body (510) inserted into the insertion groove, an inner sealing body (520) extending from the sealing body and seated on the inclined rib, and an outer sealing body (530) extending from the sealing body and seated on the fixed rib.

[0225] The sealing body may include a middle blocking portion (512) that protrudes toward the duct cover and is formed to be inclined toward the exhaust passage, and the outer sealing body may include a first blocking portion (531) that protrudes toward the exhaust passage and is formed to be in contact with the duct cover, and a second blocking portion (532) that protrudes toward the exhaust passage and is formed to be in contact with the fixed rib.

[0226] The inner sealing body includes a cover contact portion (521) including a first cover contact surface (5211) in contact with the duct cover, a second cover contact surface (5212) located on the opposite side to the first cover contact surface, and an inclined surface contact portion (522) including a first inclined contact surface (5221) in contact with the inclined rib, and a second inclined contact surface (5222) located on the opposite side to the first inclined contact surface, and when the duct cover is coupled to the tub, the second cover contact surface and the second inclined contact surface can be elastically deformed in the direction in which they come into contact with each other.

[0227] 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. Housing; A tub provided within the housing, wherein the tub exhaust port is formed and the tub includes a sunken flow path portion sunk toward the inside of the tub, and a flow path rib extending along the edge of the sunken flow path portion; A drum rotatably provided inside the above tub; A drying device including a heat pump, the drying device being arranged to supply heated air into the interior of the drum; A duct cover that is provided to be connected to the tub and covers an open side of the sunken passage to form an exhaust passage that guides air discharged from the drum through the tub exhaust port to the drying device; and A sealing member disposed between the tub and the duct cover to seal the exhaust path; The above sealing member, A sealing body provided to be coupled with the above euro rib; An inner sealing body extending from the sealing body toward the exhaust path; and A garment treatment device comprising an outer sealing body extending in a direction away from the exhaust path from the sealing body; 2. In paragraph 1, A garment treatment device in which the sealing body includes an intermediate blocking portion that protrudes toward the duct cover and is formed to be inclined toward the exhaust path.

3. In paragraph 1, A garment treatment device in which the above-mentioned Euro rib includes an insertion groove into which the above-mentioned sealing member is inserted.

4. In paragraph 3, A garment treatment device wherein the sealing body includes a groove blocking portion that protrudes in a direction opposite to the direction in which the sealing body is inserted into the insertion groove.

5. In paragraph 4, A clothing treatment device in which the above home blocking portion is formed to be inclined toward the exhaust path.

6. In paragraph 4, The above Euro ribs are, An inclined rib having an inclined surface positioned closer to the sunken passage than the insertion groove and having an increasing protruding height toward the sunken passage, A garment treatment device further comprising a fixed rib positioned on the opposite side of the inclined rib based on the insertion groove.

7. In paragraph 6, The above tub includes a fixing projection formed on the outer side of the fixing rib to fix the sealing member, A garment treatment device wherein the sealing member includes a fixing hole into which the fixing projection is inserted.

8. In paragraph 6, The above tub includes a guide groove formed on the outer side of the above fixed rib, A garment treatment device wherein the sealing member further includes a guide protrusion configured to be inserted into the guide groove.

9. In paragraph 6, A clothing treatment device in which the inner sealing body is provided to be in contact with the duct cover and the inclined rib to block moisture flowing out from the exhaust path into the insertion groove.

10. In paragraph 9, The above inner sealing body, A cover contact portion extending toward the duct cover so as to come into contact with the duct cover; A garment treatment device including an inclined surface contact portion extending toward the inclined surface so as to come into contact with the inclined surface of the inclined rib.

11. In paragraph 10, The above cover contact portion is a first cover contact surface that comes into contact with the duct cover, Including a second cover contact surface located on the opposite side to the first cover contact surface, A clothing treatment device, wherein the inclined surface contact portion includes a first inclined contact surface that comes into contact with the inclined surface, and a second inclined contact surface located on the opposite side to the first inclined contact surface.

12. In paragraph 11, When the above duct cover is coupled to the tub, the second cover contact surface and the second inclined contact surface come into contact with each other, A clothes treatment device in which the second cover contact surface and the second inclined contact surface are spaced apart from each other when the above duct cover is separated from the above tub.

13. In paragraph 6, A clothing treatment device in which the outer sealing body is provided to be in contact with the duct cover and the fixed rib to block moisture flowing out from the exhaust path to the fixed rib.

14. In paragraph 13, A garment treatment device, wherein the outer sealing body includes a first blocking portion protruding toward the duct cover and a second blocking portion protruding toward the fixed rib.

15. In paragraph 14, A clothing treatment device in which the first blocking portion and the second blocking portion are formed to be inclined toward the exhaust path.

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