Clothes care apparatus and method for controlling same

Abstract

This clothes care apparatus comprises: a main body; a chamber formed inside the main body; a heat exchanger configured to dehumidify air in the chamber; a water purification filter; a water tank disposed downstream of the water purification filter; a steam generator configured to generate steam by using water supplied from the water tank and to spray the generated steam into the chamber; a sump configured to store at least one of condensate discharged from the heat exchanger and condensate discharged from the steam generator; a water supply pump configured to pump water stored in the water tank to the steam generator; a sump pump configured to pump water stored in the sump to the water purification filter; a circulation pump configured to pump water in the steam generator to the sump or the water purification filter; and a controller that operates the circulation pump on the basis of a predetermined condition being satisfied.

Description

Garment manager and method for controlling the garment manager

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a garment manager including a steam generating system capable of reusing contaminated water and a method for controlling the garment manager.

[0002] A clothes care device is a device that performs clothes care, such as drying wet clothes, removing dust or odors attached to clothes, and reducing wrinkles in clothes.

[0003] The garment management machine may be equipped with a heat exchanger for dehumidifying and heating the air in the management room to dry the garments, and may be equipped with a steam generator for performing refreshing functions such as removing wrinkles from the garments, deodorizing, removing static electricity, and providing fragrance.

[0004] The garment manager includes a water supply tank that stores water supplied to the steam generator and a drain tank that stores water discharged from the steam generator or heat exchanger.

[0005] Users must periodically fill the water tank and empty the water tank to use the clothes manager.

[0006] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a garment manager is provided that improves user convenience by eliminating the need for the user to fill a water tank with water and empty a water tank.

[0007] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a garment manager is provided which has an integrated water tank that functions as both a water tank and a drain tank, thereby improving management convenience.

[0008] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a garment manager is provided in which water contained in a steam generating device is periodically filtered to spray clean steam into a chamber.

[0009] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a garment care device is provided in which the life of the water purification filter is improved because water contained in the steam generator passes through the water purification filter only when treatment is required.

[0010] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a garment care device is provided in which the life of a filter is improved because the filter is selectively passed depending on the condition of water contained in the steam generator.

[0011] 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.

[0012] A garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a main body; a chamber formed inside the main body; a heat exchanger configured to dehumidify air in the chamber; a water filter; a water tank disposed downstream of the water filter; a steam generator configured to generate steam using water supplied from the water tank and to inject the generated steam into the chamber; a sump configured to store at least one of condensate discharged from the heat exchanger or condensate discharged from the steam generator; a water supply pump configured to pump water stored in the water tank to the steam generator; a sump pump configured to pump water stored in the sump to the water filter; a circulation pump configured to pump water in the steam generator to the sump or the water filter; and a control unit configured to operate the circulation pump based on satisfaction of a predetermined condition.

[0013] A method for controlling a clothing manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a water filter; a water tank disposed downstream of the water filter; a steam generator configured to generate steam using water supplied from the water tank and inject the generated steam into a chamber; and a sump configured to store at least one of condensate discharged from a heat exchanger configured to dehumidify air in the chamber or condensate discharged from the steam generator, wherein the method comprises: pumping water in the steam generator to the sump or the water filter based on satisfaction of a predetermined condition.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an open door of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a portion where a steam injection unit of a steam generating device of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is arranged.

[0019] Figure 6 is an enlarged drawing of part A shown in Figure 3.

[0020] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a steam generating unit of a steam generating device of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing a steam generator including a cross-section along line A-A' of Fig. 7.

[0022] FIG. 9 is a side cross-sectional view of a steam generating unit of a steam generating device of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a steam generating unit of a steam generating device of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of an electrode sensor for detecting the water level in a steam generating device of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig. 12 is a control block diagram illustrating the configuration of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

[0026] Figure 13 schematically illustrates an example of a steam generation system according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 14 schematically illustrates another example of a steam generation system according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 15 schematically illustrates another example of a steam generation system according to one embodiment.

[0029] Fig. 16 illustrates an example of a control method of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 17 illustrates an example of a steam generation system having a deionization module according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 18 illustrates an example of a method for controlling a garment manager when the steam generation system of the garment manager according to one embodiment includes a deionization module.

[0032] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of a steam generation system having a bypass according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 20 illustrates another example of a steam generation system having a bypass according to one embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 21 illustrates another example of a steam generation system having a bypass according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 22 illustrates an example of a method for controlling a garment manager when the steam generation system of the garment manager according to one embodiment has a bypass path.

[0036] FIG. 23 illustrates an example of a steam generation system having a sterilizing device according to one embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 24 illustrates another example of a steam generation system having a sterilizing device according to one embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 25 illustrates another example of a steam generation system having a sterilizing device according to one embodiment.

[0039] 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.

[0040] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0044] 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).

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] Meanwhile, the terms “front”, “back”, “left”, “right”, “up”, “down”, etc. used in the description below are expressions related to direction, and are defined based on the drawing, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0050] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an open door of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a clothing manager (1) may include a main body (10) forming an exterior, a door (20) rotatably coupled to the main body (10), a chamber (30) provided inside the main body (10) for accommodating and managing clothing, a clothing support member (50) provided inside the chamber (30) for holding clothing, and a machine room (40) provided with a heat exchanger (41) provided for dehumidifying or heating air inside the chamber (30).

[0052] The main body (10) may have a hexahedral shape with a chamber (30) formed therein and one side open. An opening (10a) may be formed on the front of the main body (10). The chamber (30) may be replaced with the term "clothing management room" from the perspective that the clothing to be managed is accommodated therein.

[0053] A door (20) that is rotatably coupled to the opening (10a) of the main body (10) to open and close the chamber (30) is installed. Although not shown, the door (20) may be installed through a connecting member such as a hinge or link.

[0054] The main body (10) may include an external cabinet (11) and an internal cabinet (12) placed inside the external cabinet (11).

[0055] The chamber (30) forms a space in which clothing is accommodated. The chamber (30) may be configured to include an upper surface (12a), a lower surface (12b), a left surface (12c), a right surface (12d), and a rear surface (12e) provided on the inner cabinet (12). The front surface of the chamber (30) is formed to be open. Accordingly, the opening of the chamber (30) can also be opened and closed by the door (20) that opens and closes the opening (10a) of the main body (10).

[0056] The chamber (30) may include a first airflow inlet (31a), a second airflow inlet (32a), a first airflow outlet (31b), and a second airflow outlet (32b).

[0057] The first airflow inlet (31a) and the first airflow outlet (31b) may be formed on the lower surface (12b) of the chamber (30). The first airflow inlet (31a) may be arranged in front of the lower surface (12b) of the chamber (30). The first airflow outlet (31b) may be arranged in the rear of the lower surface (12b) of the chamber (30). The first airflow inlet (31a) and the first airflow outlet (31b) may be arranged at positions adjacent to each other.

[0058] The second airflow inlet (32a) may be formed at the upper portion of the rear surface (12e) of the chamber (30). The second airflow outlet (32b) may be formed at approximately the center of the upper surface (12a) of the chamber (30). The second airflow inlet (32a) and the second airflow outlet (32b) may be positioned adjacent to each other.

[0059] A water tank (80) that is detachable from the main body (10) may be installed at the lower part of the main body (10). The water tank (80) may be placed at the lower part of the chamber (30). However, the location of the water tank (80) is not limited thereto.

[0060] The water tank (80) can collect various types of condensate generated from the clothing manager (1) and can also supply water to the steam generating device (70).

[0061] For example, the water tank (80) can collect various types of condensate generated in the clothing manager (1) and supply it to the steam generator (70). The water stored in the water tank (80) can be supplied to the steam generator (70) and used to form steam.

[0062] The water tank (80) may include a water supply port for supplying water to the steam generator (70) and a drain port for recovering various types of condensate generated in the clothing manager (1).

[0063] In one embodiment, a bulkhead may not be formed inside the water tank (80). For example, the water tank (80) may be provided as an integrated water supply / drainage unit.

[0064] The water tank (80) may be provided so as to be separated from the main body (10). The user may, as needed, discard the water stored in the water tank (80) or refill the water in the water tank (80).

[0065] The water tank (80) may be provided in front of the machine room (40). The machine room (40) may be provided on the lower side of the main body (10). The water tank (80) may be replaced with terms such as a water tank or a water storage unit from the perspective of storing water, and may be replaced with terms such as a water supply and drain tank, a water supply / drain integrated water tank from the perspective of storing water supplied to the steam generator (70) and various condensates generated from the clothing manager (1).

[0066] A machine room (40) may be provided at the bottom of the chamber (30). The machine room (40) may include a heat exchanger (41) that is provided to dehumidify and heat the air inside the chamber (30) as needed.

[0067] A heat exchanger (41), a first fan (42), a compressor (43), and a steam generator (70) can be placed inside the machine room (40).

[0068] The heat exchanger (41) is configured to supply hot air into the chamber (30). The heat exchanger (41) is equipped with an evaporator (41a) through which refrigerant circulates and a condenser (41b), and is provided to dehumidify and heat air.

[0069] When the refrigerant evaporates in the evaporator (41a) of the heat exchanger (41), it absorbs the latent heat of the surrounding air, thereby condensing and removing moisture in the air. In addition, when the refrigerant condenses in the condenser (41b) through the compressor (43), it releases the latent heat toward the surrounding air, thereby heating the surrounding air. For example, the evaporator (41a) and the condenser (41b) function as heat exchangers, so that the air introduced into the machine room (40) by the first fan (42) sequentially passes through the evaporator (41a) and the condenser (41b) to be dehumidified and heated.

[0070] Air introduced from the chamber (30) into the machine room (40) by the first fan (42) can be dehumidified through the heat exchanger (41).

[0071] For example, the heat exchanger (41) may be configured to dehumidify and / or heat the air inside the chamber (30). As the heat exchanger (41) dehumidifies and / or heats the air inside the chamber (30), condensate may be discharged from the heat exchanger (41). As will be described later, the condensate discharged from the heat exchanger (41) may be stored in the sump (105).

[0072] The sump (105) is configured to temporarily store various types of condensate generated in the clothing manager (1), and may include a container and / or structure for temporarily storing various types of condensate generated in the clothing manager (1). For example, the sump (105) may include an internal space formed by a first duct (33) to be described later. As another example, the sump (105) may include an internal structure formed by the first duct (33).

[0073] A duct (33, 34) connecting a first airflow inlet (31a) and a first airflow outlet (31b) may be arranged in the machine room (40). For example, the duct (33, 34) may include a first duct (33) extending from the first airflow inlet (31a) and a second duct (34) extending from the first airflow outlet (31b).

[0074] The first duct (33) can be connected to the first airflow inlet (31a) of the chamber (30). The first duct (33) can be connected to the second duct (34). The second duct (34) can be connected to the first airflow outlet (31b).

[0075] One end of the first duct (33) may be connected to the first airflow inlet (31a) of the chamber (30) and the other end may be connected to the second duct (34). One end of the second duct (34) may be connected to the first duct (33) and the other end may be connected to the first airflow outlet (31b) of the chamber (30).

[0076] The second duct (34) can accommodate an evaporator (41a), a condenser (41b), and a first fan (42). The first duct (33) and the second duct (34) can be connected to the chamber (30) to form a first circulation path (35) that circulates between the chamber (30) and the first duct (33) and the second duct (34).

[0077] A communication port (35a) through which the first duct (33) and the second duct (34) communicate with each other can be formed at the point where the first duct (33) and the second duct (34) are connected. Air introduced into the first duct (33) by the first fan (42) can move to the second duct (34) through the communication port (35a).

[0078] Air in the chamber (30) can be introduced into the first circulation path (35) through the first airflow inlet (31a). The introduced air passes through the heat exchanger (41) and is dehumidified and heated, and the dehumidified and heated air can be discharged back into the chamber (30) through the first airflow outlet (31b).

[0079] In the embodiment of the present invention, the first airflow inlet (31a) is positioned at the front of the chamber (30) and the first airflow outlet (31b) is positioned at the rear of the chamber (30), but the spirit of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the positions of the airflow inlet and airflow outlet may be varied as needed.

[0080] The first duct (33) is provided to discharge air introduced through the first air inlet (31a) to the first air outlet (31b). The air introduced through the first air inlet (31a) can be dehumidified and / or heated by the heat exchanger (41) and discharged to the first air outlet (31b).

[0081] The first fan (42) is installed on the first circulation path (35) so as to suck air from the chamber (30) into the first circulation path (35).

[0082] The clothing manager (1) may further include a steam generator (70) configured to receive water from a water tank (80), generate steam, and spray the generated steam into a chamber (30). The steam generator (70) may be placed in a machine room (40). The steam generator (70) may include a steam generator (73) connected to a water tank (80) and receiving water from the water tank (80) to generate steam, a steam supply pipe (72) guiding the generated steam to a steam ejector (90), and a steam ejector (90) spraying the steam generated from the steam generator (73) into the interior of the chamber (30).

[0083] The steam injection unit (90) can be placed at the lower rear side of the chamber (30).

[0084] The steam generator (73) may include a space for storing water. For example, water may be stored in the steam generator (73). In the present disclosure, the water in the steam generator (70) may include water stored in the steam generator (73). The water stored in the steam generator (73) may include water stored in a case (710; see FIG. 9). A heater (730; see FIG. 9) may be installed in the case (710; see FIG. 9) for storing water to heat the water stored in the case (710; see FIG. 9).

[0085] The door (20) may include a door guide (24) for guiding the movement of condensate. The door guide (24) is provided to guide condensate formed by condensation on the back surface of the door (20). The door guide (24) may include a curved portion (24a) that is formed to slope downward from the back surface of the door (20) toward the chamber (30). Accordingly, the condensate formed on the back surface of the door (20) may descend due to its own weight and move to the first air inlet (31a). The condensate moved to the first air inlet (31a) may be stored in the sump (105). The condensate stored in the sump (105) may be moved to the water tank (80) via the first connecting member (33a).

[0086] In one embodiment, condensate discharged from the heat exchanger (41) and / or condensate discharged from the steam generator (70) may be stored in a sump (105).

[0087] The second connecting member (34a) can connect the second duct (34) and the first duct (33). The second connecting member (34a) can guide the condensate in the second duct (34) to the first duct (33). The condensate guided to the first duct (33) can be stored in the sump (105). The condensate in the second duct (34) can include condensate discharged from the heat exchanger (41) and / or condensate discharged from the steam generator (70). The condensate discharged from the steam generator (70) can include condensate discharged from the steam injection unit (90).

[0088] The first connecting member (33a) and / or the second connecting member (34a) may include a configuration capable of forming a flow path such as a hose and / or a pipe.

[0089] The condensate stored in the sump (105) can be moved to the water tank (80) through the first connecting member (33a). As will be described later, the garment manager (1) may include a sump pump (115; see FIG. 13) configured to pump the condensate stored in the sump (105) to the water tank (80) through the first connecting member (33a). In addition, in one embodiment, the garment manager (1) may include a water filter (109; see FIG. 13) disposed upstream of the water tank (80). Pumping the condensate stored in the sump (105) to the water tank (80) may include pumping the condensate stored in the sump (105) to the water filter (109).

[0090] A clothing support member (50) is provided inside the chamber (30) so that clothing can be placed and supported. The clothing support member (50) can be installed on the upper surface (12a) of the chamber (30). The clothing support member (50) can be detachably installed in the chamber (30). At least one clothing support member (50) can be provided. The clothing support member (50) can be formed in a hanger shape so that clothing can be placed.

[0091] The clothing support member (50) is provided so that air can flow within it. Dust or foreign substances adhering to the clothing can be removed by the air supplied into the clothing support member (50). An air supply port (51) for supplying air to the clothing can be formed in the clothing support member (50).

[0092] The second airflow discharge port (32b) of the chamber (30) may be connected to the clothing support member (50). The air discharged through the second airflow discharge port (32b) may be delivered to the clothing support member (50) through the air supply port (51) and delivered to the interior of the clothing placed on the clothing support member (50), or may be discharged to the outside of the air supply port (51) and delivered to the exterior of the clothing.

[0093] In the embodiment of the present invention, the second airflow outlet (32b) is positioned on the upper portion of the garment support member (50), and air discharged through the second airflow outlet (32b) is supplied to the inside and outside of the garment. However, the spirit of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the second airflow outlet may be formed in various locations and sizes so as to spray air onto the garment in various directions.

[0094] The clothing manager (1) may include a second fan (37) for circulating the air inside.

[0095] The clothing manager (1) includes a third duct (36), and a second fan (37) may be installed inside the third duct (36). The third duct (36) is provided to communicate with the chamber (30), and accordingly, the clothing manager (1) may include a second circulation path (38) formed to allow air to circulate between the chamber (30) and the third duct (36). The second fan (37) may be placed on the second circulation path (38).

[0096] The third duct (36) may be formed at the rear of the second airflow inlet (32a) of the chamber (30). The third duct (36) may be provided at the upper rear side of the chamber (30) and may include a filter member (60) therein. The third duct (36) may be coupled with a top cover (39) disposed at the upper part of the chamber (30). The third duct (36) may be coupled with the top cover (39) and a second fan (37) may be installed therein.

[0097] The second fan (37) is placed at the upper rear of the chamber (30) and may include a blower motor (37a) that generates rotational force and at least one fan body (37b) that is rotated by the blower motor. The fan body (37b) may be accommodated by a fan case (37c).

[0098] The fan case (37c) can be coupled to a duct bracket (13) provided on the upper surface (12a) of the chamber (30). At least one duct hole (13a) is formed in the duct bracket (13), and a second fan (37) is coupled to at least one duct hole (13a) to move air from the third duct (36) to the second airflow outlet (32b).

[0099] The third duct (36) can be connected to the second airflow inlet (32a) of the chamber (30) and the top cover (39), and the top cover (39) can be connected to the third duct (36) and the second airflow outlet (32b).

[0100] One end of the third duct (36) may be connected to the second airflow inlet (32a) of the chamber (30) and the other end may be connected to the top cover (39). One end of the top cover (39) may be connected to the third duct (36) and the other end may be connected to the second airflow outlet (32b).

[0101] The second airflow outlet (32b) can be connected to the clothing support member (50) so that a portion of the air delivered from the third duct (36) can be delivered to the clothing support member (50).

[0102] The second fan (37) placed inside the third duct (36) is designed to suck in air inside the chamber (30) through the second airflow inlet (32a) and discharge it through the second airflow outlet (32b).

[0103] A filter member (60) is provided in the second airflow inlet (32a) of the chamber (30). The second airflow inlet (32a) is formed at the rear surface (12e) of the chamber (30). A filter member installation portion (61) for installing the filter member (60) is provided at the rear surface (12e) of the chamber (30). The second airflow inlet (32a) may be formed at a position corresponding to the filter member installation portion (61).

[0104] When the internal air of the chamber (30) flows into the third duct (36), the air can be filtered by the filter member (60) of the second airflow inlet (32a). The air flowing into the third duct (36) can have dust and odor removed by the filter member (60). The air filtered by the filter member (60) can be discharged to the clothing support member (50) through the second fan (37).

[0105] The filter member (60) may include a dust collecting filter (not shown) for removing dust or a means for deodorization.

[0106] A fragrance sheet (91) may be placed on a portion of the inner cabinet (12) adjacent to the first airflow outlet (31b). The fragrance sheet (91) may be detachably coupled to the inner cabinet (12). Air discharged from the first airflow outlet (31b) by the fragrance sheet (91) may provide fragrance to clothing.

[0107] When managing clothing, the user places the clothing on the clothing support member (50) and operates the clothing manager (1) with the door (20) closed. At this time, the air within the chamber (30) can circulate along the first circulation path (35) and the second circulation path (38).

[0108] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a portion of a steam injection unit of a steam generating device of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is an enlarged drawing of portion A shown in FIG. 3.

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, a steam injection unit (90) may be arranged at the lower rear side of the chamber (30). The steam injection unit (90) may be provided to inject steam supplied from the steam generator (73) into the interior of the chamber (30). The steam injection unit (90) may be connected to a steam supply pipe (72). The steam injection unit (90) may include a steam nozzle (111) and a nozzle cover (112).

[0110] The steam nozzle (111) may include a steam discharge unit (111a) that sprays steam into the chamber (30) and a condensate discharge unit (111b) that discharges condensate generated in the steam spray unit (90) into the chamber (30).

[0111] The steam discharge portion (111a) may extend toward the upper side of the chamber (30) where clothes are placed. The steam discharge portion (111a) may be formed to spray steam supplied through the steam supply pipe (72) toward the upper side of the chamber (30). A spray nozzle (113) may be arranged at the end of the steam discharge portion (111a).

[0112] The spray nozzle (113) may be formed to spray steam over a wide area. The spray nozzle (113) may be formed to have an opening that becomes larger as the direction in which the steam is sprayed increases. A steam injection port (113a) through which steam is discharged may be formed at the end of the spray nozzle (113).

[0113] The condensate discharge portion (111b) may be provided to discharge condensate toward the lower side of the chamber (30). The condensate discharge portion (111b) may be formed to slope downward toward the chamber (30) so that the condensate is discharged by gravity. For example, the bottom surface (111c) of the spray nozzle (113) may be formed to slope downward toward the chamber (30), and the condensate discharge portion (111b) may extend downward from the bottom surface (111c) of the spray nozzle (113).

[0114] A condensate discharge port (114) through which condensate moves may be formed inside the condensate discharge unit (111b). Condensate generated from steam supplied to the steam injection unit (90) may move to the condensate discharge unit (111b) by its own weight along the bottom surface (111c) and may be discharged to the chamber (30) along the condensate discharge port (114) of the condensate discharge unit (111b).

[0115] A first sealing member (116) may be provided at the portion where the steam nozzle (111) and the rear surface (12e) of the inner cabinet (12) are joined. Steam leaking out through the portion where the steam nozzle (111) and the inner cabinet (12) are joined can be prevented and / or reduced by the first sealing member (116). A first sealing member (116) may be provided at the portion where the steam nozzle (111) and the guide plate (121) are joined. Steam leaking out through the portion where the steam nozzle (111) and the guide plate (121) are joined can be prevented and / or reduced by the first sealing member (116).

[0116] A nozzle cover (112) may be provided to cover the rear of the steam nozzle (111). The nozzle cover (112) may include a nozzle fixing member (118) for fixing the steam injection unit (90) to the rear of the inner cabinet (12). The nozzle fixing member (118) may be fixed to a guide plate (121).

[0117] A second sealing member (117) may be provided at the portion where the steam nozzle (111) and the nozzle cover (112) are joined. Steam leaking through the portion where the steam nozzle (111) and the nozzle cover (112) are joined can be prevented and / or reduced by the second sealing member (117).

[0118] The clothing manager (1) may include a guide plate (121) provided to guide condensate discharged through the condensate discharge port (114) to a second duct (34) placed in the machine room (40).

[0119] The guide plate (121) can be mounted on the inner cabinet (12) and can form a drain (122) that connects the chamber (30) and the machine room (40). Through the drain (122), the condensate can be moved to the second duct (34) of the machine room (40). As described above, the condensate moved to the second duct (34) of the machine room (40) can be guided to the first duct (33) through the second connecting member (34a), and the condensate guided to the first duct (33) can be stored in the sump (105).

[0120] The guide plate (121) may include a mounting portion (123) on which the steam injection portion (90) is mounted, a first guide portion (124) that guides condensate discharged from the condensate discharge port (114) to a drain port (122), and a second guide portion (125) that guides condensate flowing into the machine room (40) through the drain port (122) to a second duct (34).

[0121] The settling portion (123) may be formed to slope upward toward the chamber (30) so that the steam nozzle (111) of the steam injection portion (90) can be settling therein. The settling portion (123) may include a discharge portion insertion hole (121a) formed to insert the condensate discharge portion (111b) of the steam nozzle (111). The steam nozzle (111) can discharge condensate to the drain (122) as the condensate discharge portion (111b) is inserted into the discharge portion insertion hole (121a).

[0122] The first guide portion (124) may be formed to slope downward from the lower end of the mounting portion (123) toward the chamber (30). The first guide portion (124) may be formed to slope downward so that the condensate discharged from the condensate discharge port (114) can move to the lower machine room (40) by its own weight. A drain port (122) through which the condensate flows into the machine room (40) may be arranged at the lower end of the first guide portion (124).

[0123] The second guide portion (125) may extend downward from the lower end of the first guide portion (124). The second guide portion (125) may extend from the first guide portion (124) toward the second duct (34). The second guide portion (125) may guide condensate flowing into the machine room (40) through the drain (122) to the second duct (34). The second guide portion (15) may be coupled to the second duct (34).

[0124] According to this configuration, the clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention can guide the condensate generated in the steam injection unit (90) to the second duct (34) of the machine room (40) through the guide plate (121) and move it to the sump (105) without a separate drainage device for moving the condensate to the sump (105), and thus can have a relatively simple configuration.

[0125] For example, in the garment manager (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, since the condensate generated in the steam injection unit (90) is sequentially passed through the second duct (34) and the first duct (33) by its own weight and then moved to the water tank (80) by the operation of the sump pump (115), the condensate can be recovered to the water tank (80) without a separate, complicated device for recovering the condensate generated in the steam injection unit (90). The condensate generated in the steam injection unit (90) can be collected in the sump (105) together with the condensate generated in other parts of the garment manager (1) and moved to the water tank (80). In the garment manager (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, since the condensate can be collected in one place and recovered to the water tank (80) through a relatively simple configuration without having a separate device such as a hose for draining the condensate to each part where the condensate is generated, the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0126] According to one embodiment, various condensates generated in the clothing manager (1) can be stored in the sump (105). The various condensates generated in the clothing manager (1) can include condensates discharged from the heat exchanger (41) and / or condensates discharged from the steam generator (70).

[0127] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a steam generating unit of a steam generating device of a garment manager according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a steam generating unit including a cross-section taken along line A-A' of FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a side cross-sectional view of a steam generating unit of a steam generating device of a garment manager according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a front cross-sectional view of a steam generating unit of a steam generating device of a garment manager according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 illustrates an example of an electrode sensor for detecting a water level in a steam generating device of a garment manager according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0128] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 11, the steam generator (70) may include a case (710) configured to store water therein and a cover (720) coupled to the upper portion of the case (710). For example, the steam generator (73) may include a case (710) configured to store water therein and a cover (720) coupled to the upper portion of the case (710).

[0129] The steam generator (70) may include a contamination sensor (765) for detecting the contamination level of water stored in the case (710). The contamination level of water stored in the case (710) may include the ion concentration of the water stored in the case (710).

[0130] A contamination sensor (765) may be provided in the case (710). The contamination sensor (765) may include an electrical conductivity sensor. The electrical conductivity sensor may measure the electrical conductivity of water. Based on the electrical conductivity of the water, the salinity or ion concentration of the water may be determined.

[0131] According to various embodiments, the contamination sensor (765) may be replaced by an electrode sensor (770). In one embodiment, the contamination sensor (765) may include a low-level electrode (771) and a common electrode (773) of the electrode sensor (770). By forming a potential difference across the low-level electrode (771) and the common electrode (773) of the electrode sensor (770) and measuring the current flowing through the low-level electrode (771) and the common electrode (773), the electrical conductivity of the water stored in the case (710) may be measured.

[0132] The steam generator (70) may further include an electrolysis device (140; see FIG. 12) configured to electrolyze water stored in the case (710). The electrolysis device (140) may generate acidic water for removing scale formed on the inside of the case (710), the cover (720), or the heater (730) by electrolyzing the water stored in the case (710).

[0133] The case (710) can receive water from the water tank (80) through the water supply connection member (768). For example, water required to generate steam can be transferred from the water tank (80) to the case (710) and stored therein. The water supply connection member (768) can include a configuration capable of forming a flow path, such as a hose and / or a pipe. The garment manager (1) can include a water supply pump (110; see FIG. 13) for supplying water stored in the water tank (80) to the steam generator (70) through the water supply connection member (768).

[0134] The case (710) may be formed in a shape roughly similar to a rectangular parallelepiped. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0135] The case (710) can be combined with the cover (720) to form a storage space inside. The storage space formed by combining the case (710) and the cover (720) can store water necessary for generating steam.

[0136] The steam generator (70) may include a heater (730) placed inside the case (710) to heat water stored in the case (710).

[0137] The heater (730) may be installed adjacent to the bottom surface of the case (710) to heat water regardless of the high or low water level contained inside the case (710). The heater (730) may be installed to directly heat water while completely submerged in water when water flows into the case (710).

[0138] The heater (730) may include a sheath heater with high thermal efficiency and capable of heating water in a relatively short period of time. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the heater (730) may include a coil heater that heats water stored inside the case (710) from the outside of the case (710).

[0139] The case (710) may be equipped with a separate temperature sensor (not shown) for measuring the temperature of water stored inside the case (710). In addition, the case (710) may be equipped with a heater temperature sensor (not shown), such as a thermofuse, to prevent (or avoid) damage to the heater (730) due to overheating. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0140] The cover (720) may be formed with a water supply unit (740) that is connected to a water supply connection member (768) and a discharge unit (750) that is connected to a steam supply pipe (72) for supplying steam generated by heating water introduced into the interior of the case (710) with a heater (730) to the chamber (30).

[0141] The steam generator (70) is installed in the cover (720) and may include a water level detection sensor (760) configured to detect the internal water level of the case (710).

[0142] The water level detection sensor (760) can detect the water level of water stored inside the case (710). If the water level of water stored inside the case (710) detected by the water level detection sensor (760) is higher than a reference value, the clothing manager (1) can stop the water supply to the steam generator (70) and operate the heater (730) to generate steam.

[0143] The water level detection sensor (760) may include an electrode sensor (770) extending toward the bottom surface of the case (710). In addition, the water level detection sensor (760) may include a housing (780) that can support the electrode sensor (770) and is detachably connected to the cover (720).

[0144] The electrode sensor (770) can be installed at an appropriate height from the bottom surface of the case (710) to detect the water level to be stored inside the case (710).

[0145] The housing (780) may be fixed to the outside of the cover (720) by a fixing member (790) (e.g., a bolt, etc.). A socket portion (784) for electrical connection with a water level detection sensor (760) and a control unit (250; see FIG. 12) may be provided on the upper side of the housing (780).

[0146] The housing (780) may include a first housing (781) and a second housing (782). The first housing (781) and the second housing (782) may be coupled to each of the two sides of the cover (720).

[0147] The electrode sensor (770) may include a low-level electrode (771) that detects a low water level inside the case (710) and a high-level electrode (772) that detects a high water level inside the case (710).

[0148] The low-level electrode (771) may be placed on top of the heater (730). The upper end of the low-level electrode (771) may be supported by the first housing (781), and the lower end of the low-level electrode (771) may be placed on top of the heater (730) so as to be spaced apart from the heater (730).

[0149] The low-level electrode (771) may include a first detection unit (771a). The first detection unit (771a) is provided at the lower end of the low-level electrode (771) and can detect the water level inside the case (710).

[0150] The high-level electrode (772) may be placed on top of the heater (730). The upper part of the high-level electrode (772) may be supported by the second housing (782), and the lower part of the high-level electrode (772) may be placed on top of the heater (730) so as to be spaced apart from the heater (730).

[0151] The high-level electrode (772) may include a second sensing unit (772a). The second sensing unit (772a) is provided at the lower end of the high-level electrode (772) and can detect the water level inside the case (710).

[0152] The high-level electrode (772) may be formed to have a shorter length than the low-level electrode (771). According to this configuration, the second sensing unit (772a) may be provided above the first sensing unit (771a).

[0153] The electrode sensor (770) may include a common electrode (773).

[0154] The common electrode (773) may be supported by the first housing (781). For example, the common electrode (773) may be provided on one side of the low-level electrode (771). In addition, the common electrode (773) may have the same length as the low-level electrode (771).

[0155] The common electrode (773) may include a third sensing unit (773a). The third sensing unit (773a) is provided at the lower end of the common electrode (773) and can detect the water level inside the case (710).

[0156] The common electrode (773) can be electrically connected to at least one of the low-level electrode (771) or the high-level electrode (772) via water. Through this configuration, the water level detection sensor (760) can detect the water level inside the case (710).

[0157] Water can be introduced into the case (710) through the water supply unit (740). The water introduced into the case (710) can be heated by the heater (730) and converted into steam.

[0158] Steam can be supplied to the steam injection unit (90) through the discharge unit (750) of the case (710). The steam injection unit (90) can inject steam into the interior of the chamber (30). The steam injected into the interior of the chamber (30) can increase the humidity of the air inside the chamber (30). The humid air inside the chamber (30) can be dehumidified through the heat exchanger (41). The heat exchanger (41) can dehumidify the humid air inside the chamber (30) and discharge condensate. The condensate discharged from the heat exchanger (41) can be stored in the sump (105). The condensate stored in the sump (105) can be recovered to the water tank (80).

[0159] The water stored in the case (710) may be hard water containing a large amount of minerals. If the hard water is heated and collects on the inside of the case (710) or cover (720), scale may form on the inside of the case (710) or cover (720) or on the heater (730) due to the minerals contained in the hard water.

[0160] Additionally, if water is stored in the case (710) for a long time, the contamination level of the water stored in the case (710) will naturally increase.

[0161] Fig. 12 is a control block diagram illustrating the configuration of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 12, a garment manager (1) according to one embodiment may include a first fan (42), a compressor (43), a second fan (37), a steam generation system (100), a user interface device (200), a communication unit (300), and / or a control unit (250) (e.g., at least one processor including a processing circuit).

[0163] The first fan (42) can discharge the air inside the chamber (30) through the machine room (40), the evaporator (41a), and the condenser (41b) back into the chamber (30). The first fan (42) can operate based on a control signal from the control unit (250).

[0164] The compressor (43) can compress the refrigerant supplied to the heat exchanger (41). The compressor (43) can operate based on a control signal from the control unit (250).

[0165] The second fan (37) can circulate the air inside the chamber (30) back into the chamber (30) through the second airflow outlet (32b) or the clothing support member (50). The second fan (37) can operate based on a control signal from the control unit (250).

[0166] The steam generation system (100) can supply steam to the chamber (30).

[0167] The steam generation system (100) may include a water tank (80) and a steam generation device (70) that generates steam using water supplied from the water tank (80) and sprays the generated steam into a chamber (30).

[0168] As described above, the steam generator (70) may include a heater (730). The heater (730) may operate based on a control signal from the control unit (250).

[0169] The steam generator (70) may include a water level detection sensor (760). The water level detection sensor (760) may transmit data and / or information regarding the water level of water (water stored in the case (710)) within the steam generator (70) to the control unit (250).

[0170] The steam generator (70) may include a contamination sensor (765). The contamination sensor (765) may transmit data and / or information regarding the contamination level of water (water stored in the case (710)) within the steam generator (70) to the control unit (250).

[0171] The steam generation system (100) may include various configurations for supplying water stored in a water tank (80) to a steam generation device (70). For example, the steam generation system (100) may include at least one connecting member (e.g., a water supply connecting member (768)) for supplying water stored in a water tank (80) to a steam generation device (70) and a water supply pump (110).

[0172] The steam generation system (100) may include various configurations for supplying water within the steam generation device (70) and / or water stored in the sump (105) to the water tank (80).

[0173] In one embodiment, the steam generation system (100) may include at least one connecting member for supplying water within the steam generation device (70) to a water tank (80) and a circulation pump (120). The connecting member for supplying water within the steam generation device (70) to the water tank (80) may be connected to a water purification filter (109).

[0174] In one embodiment, the steam generation system (100) may include at least one connecting member and a circulation pump (120) for supplying water within the steam generation device (70) to a sump (105).

[0175] In one embodiment, the steam generation system (100) may include at least one connecting member (e.g., first connecting member (33a)) for supplying water stored in the sump (105) to the water tank (80) and a sump pump (115). The at least one connecting member for supplying water stored in the sump (105) to the water tank (80) may be connected to a water filter (109).

[0176] The steam generation system (100) may further include at least one valve (130) configured to open and close at least one flow path formed by at least one connecting member for supplying water in the steam generation device (70) to the water tank (80) and / or the sump (105) and / or at least one flow path formed by at least one connecting member for supplying water stored in the sump (105) to the water tank (80) and / or at least one flow path formed by at least one connecting member for supplying water stored in the water tank (80) to the steam generation device (70).

[0177] The steam generation system (100) may include a water purification filter (109) for purifying and / or softening water within the steam generation device (70) and / or water stored in the sump (105) before supplying it to the water tank (80).

[0178] The water purification filter (109) may include a filter capable of removing ions (e.g., ion exchange resin filter, electrochemical filter) and / or a filter required for water purification (e.g., pre-carbon filter, hollow fiber membrane filter, etc.).

[0179] The steam generation system (100) may include an electrolysis device (140) for electrolyzing water within the steam generation device (70).

[0180] According to various embodiments, the steam generation system (100) may further include a sterilizing device (160) for sterilizing water stored in the water tank (80). The sterilizing device (160) for sterilizing water stored in the water tank (80) may include an ultraviolet irradiation unit (e.g., an ultraviolet lamp). For example, the sterilizing device (160) may be installed in a passage connected to the water tank (80) and may be configured to irradiate ultraviolet rays to water flowing in a separate passage connected to the water tank (80).

[0181] The steam generation system (100) may include a sterilizing pump (160p) that pumps water stored in a water tank (80) to a path (hereinafter, “sterilizing path”) in which a sterilizing device (160) is installed. The water pumped by the sterilizing pump (160p) may be returned to the water tank (80) through the sterilizing path.

[0182] Various components of the steam generation system (100) (e.g., heater (730), feed pump (110), sump pump (115), circulation pump (120), valve (130), electrolysis device (140), sterilization device (160), sterilization pump (160p)) can be controlled based on a control signal of the control unit (250).

[0183] The user interface device (200) can enable the user and the garment manager (1) to interact with each other.

[0184] The user interface device (200) may include at least one input interface device (201) and at least one output interface device (202), each of which may include various interface circuits.

[0185] At least one input interface device (201) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0186] At least one input interface device (201) may include a power button, a course selection button, a play / pause button, and / or a communication button.

[0187] Each button may include a visual indicator (e.g., text, an icon, etc.) that indicates its function.

[0188] The power button is used to turn the power of the garment manager (1) on or off.

[0189] The course selection button is used to select the course of the garment manager (1).

[0190] The course selection button may include a button for selecting a course for managing clothing accommodated in the chamber (30).

[0191] When the course selection button is selected, at least one course corresponding to clothing management may be displayed on the output interface device (202) (e.g., a display), and the user may select a desired course using the direction selection button. The at least one course may include various courses such as a standard course, a large-capacity management course, a sterilization course, a fine dust course, a rapid course, a school uniform course, a denim course, a coat course, a wool / knit course, and a suit course.

[0192] After a course for managing clothes is selected and an action button is selected, the control unit (250) can perform the selected course by controlling the configuration of the clothes manager (1) (e.g., compressor (43), steam generation system (100), first fan (42), and / or second fan (37)) according to the algorithm of the selected course.

[0193] The Run / Pause button is used to run the selected course or temporarily stop the course in progress.

[0194] The communication button is used to configure the communication settings of the garment manager (1). Through the communication button, the garment manager (1) can connect to a nearby access point (AP). The garment manager (1) can communicate with external devices such as servers, user devices, and other home appliances through the nearby access point.

[0195] At least one input interface device (201) 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.

[0196] In the present disclosure, 'button' may be replaced with a UI element (User Interface Element), 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.

[0197] At least one output interface device (202) can transmit various information related to the operation of the garment manager (1) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0198] For example, at least one output interface device (202) can transmit information related to a clothing care course and the operating time of the clothing care device (1), settings of the clothing care device (1), etc. to the user. Information related to the operation of the clothing care device (1) can be output by a display, an indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface device (202) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0199] The communication unit (300) can communicate with external devices (e.g., servers, user devices, and / or home appliances) via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0200] The communication unit (300) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0201] The communication unit (300) can transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit (300) can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or other home appliances, and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0202] To this end, the communication unit (300) can 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 unit (300) can 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, the corresponding communication module can 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).

[0203] 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.

[0204] 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.

[0205] In one embodiment, the communication unit (300) can communicate with external devices such as a server, user devices, and other home appliances via a surrounding access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the garment manager (1), other home appliances, and / or user devices are connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The garment manager (1), other home appliances, and / or user devices can be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

[0206] The control unit (250) may include at least one processor (251) and memory (252) including various processing circuits, and may process data collected from various components of the clothing manager (1) (e.g., a user interface device (200), a communication unit (300), a contamination sensor (765), and / or a water level detection sensor (760)). The control unit (250) may process user input input through the user interface device (200) and / or the communication unit (300), and perform an operation corresponding to the user input.

[0207] For example, the control unit (250) may control various components (e.g., the first fan (42), the compressor (43), the second fan (37), and / or the steam generation system (100)) of the clothing manager (1) to perform the clothing management course according to a preset algorithm based on receiving a user input for starting the clothing management course from the user interface device (200).

[0208] Garment care courses may include steam administration.

[0209] The control unit (250) can control the steam generation system (100) to perform a steam cycle. For example, the control unit (250) can control the water supply pump (110) to supply water stored in the water tank (80) to the steam generation device (70) during the steam cycle. In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can control the water supply pump (110) to supply water stored in the water tank (80) to the steam generation device (70) based on the water level in the steam generation device (70) being detected as low by the water level detection sensor (760) during the steam cycle.

[0210] The control unit (250) can operate the heater (730) to heat water in the steam generator (70) during the steam administration.

[0211] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may control the sump pump (115) to pump water stored in the sump (105) to the water purification filter (109) in response to the garment care course being terminated.

[0212] When the water stored in the sump (105) is pumped to the water purification filter (109), the water stored in the sump (105) can be filtered by the water purification filter (109) and returned to the water tank (80) located downstream of the water purification filter (109).

[0213] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can operate the circulation pump (120) based on satisfaction of a preset or specified condition.

[0214] The predetermined condition may include that the contamination level of the water within the steam generator (70) is greater than or equal to a predetermined contamination level. The predetermined condition may include that the cumulative storage time of the water within the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time. The preset time may be a predefined time and may be changed based on user input received via the user interface device (200) and / or the communication unit (300).

[0215] The accumulated storage time of water in the steam generator (70) may include a period during which the steam generator system (100) does not perform a circulation cycle. The circulation cycle will be described later.

[0216] For example, the cumulative storage time of water within the steam generator (70) may include the cumulative time during which the circulation pump (120) configured to pump water within the steam generator (70) to the water purification filter (109) or sump (105) is not operated.

[0217] The starting point of the cumulative storage time of water in the steam generator (70) may be the operating point (or the end point of operation) of the circulation pump (120).

[0218] For example, the accumulated storage time of water in the steam generator (70) can be reset and recalculated at the time the circulation pump (120) starts operating (or ends operating).

[0219] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can control the circulation pump (120) based on the contamination level of the water measured by the contamination sensor (765). For example, the control unit (250) can operate the circulation pump (120) for a predetermined period of time based on the contamination level of the water measured by the contamination sensor (765) being higher than a predetermined contamination level.

[0220] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may operate the feed pump (110) together with the circulation pump (120) for the circulation cycle.

[0221] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may operate the sump pump (115) and the feed pump (110) together when operating the circulation pump (120) for the circulation cycle.

[0222] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can control the electrolysis device (140) based on the contamination level of the water measured by the contamination sensor (765). For example, the control unit (250) can operate the electrolysis device (140) for a predetermined period of time based on the contamination level of the water measured by the contamination sensor (765) being higher than a predetermined contamination level.

[0223] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may operate the water supply pump (110) based on the water level measured by the water level detection sensor (760). For example, the control unit (250) may operate the water supply pump (110) based on the low water level detected by the water level detection sensor (760) until the high water level is detected by the water level detection sensor (760).

[0224] The control unit (250) may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit (250) may include at least one memory (252) that stores data in the form of a program and an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the clothing manager (1), and at least one processor (251) that performs the operations described above and the operations to be described below using the data stored in the at least one memory (252). The memory (252) and the processor (251) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (251) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (252) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (252) and the processor (251) may be implemented as a single chip. The processor (251) may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, as used in this disclosure, including in the claims, the term "processor" may encompass various processing circuits that include at least one processor, wherein one or more of the at least one processors may be configured to perform the various functions described herein, individually and / or collectively, in a distributed manner. When "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" are described herein as being configured to perform multiple functions, these terms include, but are not limited to, situations where one processor performs some of the multiple functions and other processors perform other of the multiple functions, and situations where a single processor may perform all of the multiple functions. Furthermore, the at least one processor may comprise a combination of processors that perform the various functions described, for example, in a distributed manner.At least one processor is capable of executing program instructions to accomplish or perform various functions.

[0225] The control unit (250) may be electrically connected to the first fan (42), the compressor (43), the second fan (37), the steam generation system (100), the user interface device (200), and / or the communication unit (300).

[0226] The configurations illustrated in FIG. 12 are an example of the configuration of a clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment. The clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment may include some configurations in addition to the configurations illustrated in FIG. 12, and may not include some of the configurations illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0227] For example, a garment manager (1) according to one embodiment may not include an electrolysis device (140). As another example, a garment manager (1) according to one embodiment may not include a valve (130). As another example, a garment manager (1) according to one embodiment may further include a deionization module (150; see FIG. 17) and / or a deionization pump (150a).

[0228] Fig. 13 schematically illustrates an example of a steam generation system according to one embodiment. Fig. 14 schematically illustrates another example of a steam generation system according to one embodiment. Fig. 15 schematically illustrates yet another example of a steam generation system according to one embodiment.

[0229] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 15, a steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may include a steam generation device (70), a sump (105), a water purification filter (109), and a water tank (80).

[0230] A steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may include at least one circulation pump (120) for pumping water within the steam generation device (70) to a sump (105) or a water purification filter (109).

[0231] Referring to FIG. 13, the circulation pump (120) can pump water within the steam generator (70) to the sump (105). Referring to FIG. 14, the circulation pump (120) and the sump pump (115) can be the same pump. Referring to FIG. 15, the circulation pump (120) can pump water within the steam generator (70) to the water purification filter (109).

[0232] A water purification filter (109) may be placed upstream of a water tank (80). Water supplied to the water purification filter (109) may be filtered by the water purification filter (109) and moved to a water tank (80) placed downstream. Pumping water to the water purification filter (109) may include pumping water to the water tank (80).

[0233] A steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may include a sump pump (115) for pumping water stored in a sump (105) to a water purification filter (109).

[0234] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may operate the sump pump (115) for a predetermined period of time based on the termination of a garment care cycle (e.g., steam cycle) or garment care cycle.

[0235] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may operate the sump pump (115) based on the termination of operation of the feed pump (110).

[0236] A steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may include a water supply pump (110) for pumping water stored in a water tank (80) to a steam generation device (70).

[0237] The steam generation system (100) may include connecting members configured to connect a steam generator (70), a sump (105), a water filter (109), and a water tank (80). The steam generation system (100) may include flow paths formed by the connecting members configured to connect the steam generator (70), the sump (105), the water filter (109), and the water tank (80). The steam generation system (100) may include at least one valve (130) for opening and closing the flow paths formed by the connecting members configured to connect the steam generator (70), the sump (105), the water filter (109), and the water tank (80).

[0238] In the embodiment of FIG. 13, the steam generation system (100) may include a valve (130a) for opening and closing a passage connecting a sump (105) and a water filter (109), a valve (130b) for opening and closing a passage connecting a steam generator (70) and a sump (105), and a valve (130c) for opening and closing a passage connecting a water tank (80) and a steam generator (70). According to various embodiments, at least one valve (130) among the plurality of valves (130a, 130b, 130c) may be omitted.

[0239] For example, if the water stored in the sump (105) does not naturally flow into the water purification filter (109) due to factors such as gravity, the valve (130a) that opens and closes the flow path connecting the sump (105) and the water purification filter (109) may be omitted. As another example, if the water stored in the steam generator (70) does not naturally flow into the sump (105) due to factors such as gravity, the valve (130b) that opens and closes the flow path connecting the steam generator (70) and the sump (105) may be omitted. As another example, if the water stored in the water tank (80) does not naturally flow into the steam generator (70) due to factors such as gravity, the valve (130c) that opens and closes the flow path connecting the water tank (80) and the steam generator (70) may be omitted. The description of the valve (130c) that opens and closes the passage connecting the water tank (80) and the steam generator (70) can be applied to all embodiments to be described later, so in the embodiments to be described later, the description of the valve (130c) that opens and closes the passage connecting the water tank (80) and the steam generator (70) is omitted.

[0240] In one embodiment, operating the sump pump (115) may include opening a valve (130a) connecting the sump (105) and the water filter (109). In one embodiment, operating the circulation pump (120) may include opening a valve (130b) connecting the steam generator (70) and the sump (105). In one embodiment, operating the feed water pump (110) may include opening a valve (130c) connecting the water tank (80) and the steam generator (70).

[0241] The control unit (250) may operate the circulation pump (120) based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition may include, as described above, that the contamination level of the water within the steam generator (70) is higher than the predetermined contamination level and / or that the accumulated storage time of the water within the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time. For example, the predetermined condition may include an event that indicates a high probability that the water within the steam generator (70) is contaminated.

[0242] When the control unit (250) operates the circulation pump (120), it can operate the sump pump (115) and the feed pump (110) together.

[0243] When the circulation pump (120), sump pump (115) and feed water pump (110) operate together, the water in the steam generator (70) can be returned to the water tank (80) via the sump (105) and water filter (109), and then returned to the steam generator (70).

[0244] Referring to FIG. 14, the sump pump (115) may be the same pump as the circulation pump (120). For example, the circulation pump (120) (and the sump pump (115)) may be configured to pump water within the steam generator (70) to the water purification filter (109) or to pump water stored in the sump (105) to the water purification filter (109).

[0245] However, the steam generation system (100) may include a valve (130d) that opens and closes a passage connecting the sump (105) and the sump pump (115) and a valve (130e) that opens and closes a passage connecting the steam generation device (70) and the circulation pump (120).

[0246] In Fig. 14, the flow path connecting the sump (105) and the sump pump (115) may have a common flow path with the flow path connecting the steam generator (70) and the circulation pump (120).

[0247] In Fig. 14, since the sump pump (115) and the circulation pump (120) are the same pump, valves (130d, 130e) are essentially required. According to various embodiments, the valve (130d) that opens and closes the flow path connecting the sump (105) and the sump pump (115) and the valve (130e) that opens and closes the flow path connecting the circulation pump (120) may be implemented as a single valve (e.g., a three-way valve). The valve (130d) may be provided in a portion of the flow path connecting the sump (105) and the sump pump (115) excluding the common flow path with the flow path connecting the steam generator (70) and the circulation pump (120). The valve (130e) may be provided in a portion of the flow path connecting the steam generator (70) and the circulation pump (120) excluding the common flow path with the flow path connecting the sump (105) and the sump pump (115).

[0248] In one embodiment, operating the sump pump (115) may include controlling a valve (130d) to open a passage connecting the sump (105) and the sump pump (115). In one embodiment, operating the circulation pump (120) may include controlling a valve (130e) to open a passage connecting the steam generator (70) and the circulation pump (120).

[0249] The control unit (250) may operate the circulation pump (120) based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition may include, as described above, that the contamination level of the water within the steam generator (70) is higher than the predetermined contamination level and / or that the accumulated storage time of the water within the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time. For example, the predetermined condition may include an event that indicates a high probability that the water within the steam generator (70) is contaminated.

[0250] When the control unit (250) operates the circulation pump (120), it can operate the feed pump (110) together. When the control unit (250) operates the circulation pump (120), it can control the valve (130d) to close the flow path connecting the sump (105) and the sump pump (115).

[0251] When the circulation pump (120) and the feed pump (110) operate together, the water in the steam generator (70) can be returned to the water tank (80) directly through the water purification filter (109) without passing through the sump (105), and then returned to the steam generator (70).

[0252] In one embodiment, when the circulation pump (120) and the feed pump (110) operate together, the flow rate discharged per unit time of the circulation pump (120) and the feed pump (110) may be the same.

[0253] Referring to FIG. 15, the flow path connecting the sump (105) and the water purifier (109) may not have a common flow path with the flow path connecting the steam generator (70) and the water purifier (109).

[0254] In Fig. 15, the flow path connecting the sump (105) and the water purifier (109) and the flow path connecting the steam generator (70) and the water purifier (109) can be provided separately from each other.

[0255] In one embodiment, the circulation pump (120) may be configured to pump water within the steam generator (70) to the water purification filter (109). The sump pump (115) may be configured to pump water stored in the sump (105) to the water purification filter (109).

[0256] In FIG. 15, the steam generation system (100) may include a valve (130f) for opening and closing a passage connecting a sump (105) and a water purification filter (109), and a valve (130g) for opening and closing a passage connecting a steam generation device (70) and a water purification filter (109). According to various embodiments, at least one valve (130) among the plurality of valves (130f, 130g) may be omitted.

[0257] For example, if the water stored in the sump (105) does not naturally flow into the water purification filter (109) due to factors such as gravity, the valve (130f) that opens and closes the flow path connecting the sump (105) and the water purification filter (109) may be omitted. As another example, if the water stored in the steam generator (70) does not naturally flow into the water purification filter (109) due to factors such as gravity, the valve (130g) that opens and closes the flow path connecting the steam generator (70) and the water purification filter (109) may be omitted.

[0258] In one embodiment, operating the sump pump (115) may include controlling a valve (130f) to open a passage connecting the sump (105) and the sump pump (115). In one embodiment, operating the circulation pump (120) may include controlling a valve (130g) to open a passage connecting the steam generator (70) and the circulation pump (120).

[0259] The control unit (250) may operate the circulation pump (120) based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition may include, as described above, that the contamination level of the water within the steam generator (70) is higher than the predetermined contamination level and / or that the accumulated storage time of the water within the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time. For example, the predetermined condition may include an event that indicates a high probability that the water within the steam generator (70) is contaminated.

[0260] When the control unit (250) operates the circulation pump (120), it can operate the feed pump (110) together. When the control unit (250) operates the circulation pump (120), it can control the valve (130f) to close the flow path connecting the sump (105) and the sump pump (115).

[0261] When the circulation pump (120) and the feed pump (110) operate together, the water in the steam generator (70) can be returned to the water tank (80) directly through the water purification filter (109) without passing through the sump (105), and then returned to the steam generator (70).

[0262] In one embodiment, when the circulation pump (120) and the feed pump (110) operate together, the flow rate discharged per unit time of the circulation pump (120) and the feed pump (110) may be the same.

[0263] According to the present disclosure, even if a user does not use the garment manager (1) for a long period of time, the water inside the steam generator (70) can be kept clean. In addition, according to the present disclosure, even if a user does not change the water in the water tank (80), the water stored in the water tank (80) can be kept clean. In addition, according to the present disclosure, since the water stored in the sump (105) unconditionally passes through the water purification filter (109) when being returned to the water tank (80), the water flowing into the water tank (80) can always be purified water.

[0264] The structure of the steam generation system (100) according to various embodiments is not limited to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 15. If a configuration (e.g., a circulation pump (120)) capable of moving water in the steam generation device (70) to a water tank (80) after passing it through a water purification filter (109) is included, it can be adopted as the structure of the steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0265] Fig. 16 illustrates an example of a control method of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

[0266] According to various embodiments, the garment manager (1) may perform the operations illustrated in FIGS. 16, 18, and 22 based on the completion of a garment management process (e.g., steaming process) or a garment management course. However, the timing at which the garment manager (1) performs the operations illustrated in FIGS. 16, 18, and 22 is not limited thereto. For example, the garment manager (1) may periodically perform the operations illustrated in FIGS. 16, 18, and 22.

[0267] Referring to FIG. 16, a clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment can collect sensor data related to water in a steam generator (70) (1100).

[0268] For example, a water level sensor (760) can measure the water level in a steam generator (70). As another example, a contamination sensor (765) can measure the contamination level of water in a steam generator (70).

[0269] The control unit (250) can receive data related to the water level in the steam generator (70) from the water level detection sensor (760).

[0270] The control unit (250) can receive data related to the contamination level of water in the steam generator (70) from the contamination level sensor (765).

[0271] The clothing manager (1) can determine whether a predetermined condition for starting a circulation process is satisfied (1200, 1300).

[0272] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can identify whether the contamination level of water in the steam generator (70) exceeds a predetermined contamination level (1200).

[0273] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can identify whether the cumulative storage time of water in the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time (1300).

[0274] The control unit (250) can identify the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) based on processing data related to the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) received from the contamination level sensor (765), and determine whether the identified contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) exceeds a predetermined contamination level.

[0275] For example, the contamination sensor (765) may be an electrical conductivity sensor, and the control unit (250) may determine whether the electrical conductivity of the water in the steam generator (70) exceeds a predetermined electrical conductivity (e.g., 700 uS / cm).

[0276] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can perform a circulation cycle (1400) based on whether the contamination level of water in the steam generator (70) is higher than a predetermined contamination level (example of 1200).

[0277] The control unit (250) can identify the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) based on processing data related to the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) received from the contamination level sensor (765), and control the steam generation system (100) to perform a circulation process based on whether the identified contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) exceeds a predetermined contamination level.

[0278] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can perform a circulation cycle (1400) based on the cumulative storage time of water in the steam generator (70) reaching a preset time (e.g., 30 days) (example of 1300).

[0279] The cumulative storage time of water within the steam generator (70) may include reaching a preset time, or the cumulative storage time of water within the steam generator (70) may include exceeding a preset time. As described above, the cumulative storage time of water within the steam generator (70) may include the cumulative time during which the circulation pump (120) is not operated.

[0280] The control unit (250) can calculate the accumulated time during which the circulation pump (120) has not been operated, and control the steam generation system (100) to perform a circulation operation based on the fact that the accumulated time during which the circulation pump (120) has not been operated has reached a preset time.

[0281] The circulation process may include a process that allows water in the steam generation system (100) to circulate through the steam generation device (70), the sump (105) (optional), the water purification filter (109), and the water tank (80).

[0282] The clothing manager (1) can pump water in the steam generator (70) to a sump (105) or water filter (109) for circulation.

[0283] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can operate the circulation pump (120) for circulation operation.

[0284] Referring to Fig. 13, the clothing manager (1) can pump water in the steam generator (70) to the sump (105) for circulation operation and pump water stored in the sump (105) to the water purification filter (109). The clothing manager (1) can pump water stored in the water tank (80) to the steam generator (70) for circulation operation.

[0285] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can operate the sump pump (115) and the feed pump (110) together with the circulation pump (120) for the circulation operation.

[0286] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the garment manager (1) can pump water in the steam generator (70) to the water purification filter (109) for the circulation cycle. The garment manager (1) can pump water stored in the water tank (80) to the steam generator (70) for the circulation cycle.

[0287] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can operate the feed pump (110) together with the circulation pump (120) for circulation operation.

[0288] According to the present disclosure, when water in a steam generator (70) is contaminated, it can be filtered by a water purification filter (109) and recovered again, so that the water can be continuously reused.

[0289] In addition, according to the present disclosure, the user's convenience can be improved because the user does not need to change the water in the water tank (80).

[0290] According to various embodiments, the steam generation system (100) may further include an electrolysis device configured to electrolyze water within the steam generation device (70). The garment manager (1) may operate the electrolysis device based on satisfaction of a predetermined condition.

[0291] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may operate the electrolysis device based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition. For example, the control unit (250) may operate the electrolysis device for a predetermined period of time based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition, and then initiate a circulation cycle.

[0292] When the electrolysis device electrolyzes water within the steam generator (70), a small amount of acidic water is generated, which can remove scale formed on the inside of the case (710) or cover (720) or on the heater (730). In addition, this small amount of acidic water is diluted with a water purifier or a large amount of water through a circulation cycle, so that it does not cause a major problem when used as water for generating steam later.

[0293] FIG. 17 illustrates an example of a steam generation system having a deionization module according to one embodiment.

[0294] FIG. 17 illustrates that the steam generation system (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 13 further includes a deionization module (150). However, the steam generation system (100) according to the embodiment of FIGS. 14 and 15 may also further include a deionization module (150), and the operations to be described below may also be applied to the steam generation system (100) according to the embodiment of FIGS. 14 and 15.

[0295] Referring to FIG. 17, a steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may further include a deionization module (150).

[0296] The deionization module (150) may include a filter capable of removing ions contained in water. For example, the deionization module (150) may include an ion exchange resin filter, a reverse osmosis membrane (RO) filter, and / or a capacitive deionization (CDI) module.

[0297] A steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may further include a deionization pump (150a) configured to pump water within the steam generation device (70) so that the water within the steam generation device (70) flows into the steam generation device (70) through the deionization module (150).

[0298] A valve (150b) configured to open and close a path connecting the steam generator (70) and the deionization module (150) according to one embodiment may be further included. According to various embodiments, the valve (150b) may be omitted if the water stored in the steam generator (70) does not naturally flow into the deionization module (150) due to factors such as gravity.

[0299] FIG. 18 illustrates an example of a method for controlling a garment manager when the steam generation system of the garment manager according to one embodiment includes a deionization module.

[0300] Referring to FIG. 18, a garment manager (1) according to one embodiment can collect sensor data related to water within a steam generator (70) (2100). The description of operation 2100 overlaps with the description of operation 1100 of FIG. 16 and will not be repeated.

[0301] The garment manager (1) can identify whether the contamination level of water within the steam generator (70) exceeds a predetermined level (2200). The description of operation 2200 overlaps with the description of operation 1200 of FIG. 16, and thus will not be repeated.

[0302] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can identify whether the accumulated storage time of water within the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time (2300). The description of operation 2300 overlaps with the description of operation 1300 of FIG. 16 and will not be repeated.

[0303] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can perform a deionization process (2350) based on whether the contamination level of water in the steam generator (70) is higher than a predetermined contamination level (example of 2200).

[0304] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can perform a deionization process (2350) based on the cumulative storage time of water in the steam generator (70) reaching a preset time (e.g., 30 days) (example of 2300).

[0305] The deionization process may include a process in which water in the steam generator (70) passes through the deionization module (150) and is returned to the steam generator (70).

[0306] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can pump water within the steam generator (70) so that the water within the steam generator (70) passes through the deionization module and flows into the steam generator (70) for the deionization process.

[0307] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may operate the deionization pump (150a) for a deionization process. In various embodiments, if the deionization module (150) is a capacitive deionization module, the control unit (250) may operate the deionization module (150) for a deionization process. Operating the deionization module (150) may include applying voltage to both electrodes included in the capacitive deionization module.

[0308] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) may perform a circulation cycle based on the completion of the deionization cycle. For example, the control unit (250) may operate the deionization pump for a predetermined period of time in response to the satisfaction of a predetermined condition, and operate the circulation pump (120) based on the cessation of operation of the deionization pump.

[0309] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can identify whether the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) exceeds a predetermined contamination level based on performing the deionization process for a predetermined period of time (2360).

[0310] The clothing manager (1) can perform a circulation cycle (2400) based on whether the contamination level of water in the steam generator (70) exceeds a predetermined contamination level (example of 2360).

[0311] According to the present disclosure, the life of the water purification filter (109) can be extended by first lowering the contamination level of water in the steam generator (70) through the deionization module (150) and then performing a circulation cycle if the contamination level of water in the steam generator (70) is not improved.

[0312] In addition, according to the present disclosure, ions of water in a steam generator (70) can be efficiently removed through a deionization module (150).

[0313] According to various embodiments, the clothing manager (1) may perform a deionization process based on whether the contamination level of water in the steam generator (70) is higher than a predetermined contamination level (example of 2200), and may perform a circulation process based on whether the accumulated storage time of water in the steam generator (70) reaches a preset time (example of 2300).

[0314] For example, the control unit (250) can perform a circulation process based on the fact that the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) does not exceed a predetermined contamination level and the accumulated storage time of the water in the steam generator (70) reaches a preset time.

[0315] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may perform a deionization process based on the fact that the contamination level of water within the steam generator (70) exceeds a predetermined contamination level and the cumulative storage time of water within the steam generator (70) has not reached a preset time.

[0316] The deionization process is intended to remove water contamination. If the water contamination level is lower than a predetermined level, there is no need to perform the deionization process. However, if the accumulated storage time of water in the steam generator (70) reaches a preset time, floating substances may exist in the water in the steam generator (70), so the clothing manager (1) may perform a circulation process instead of the deionization process.

[0317] According to various embodiments, the clothing manager (1) may sequentially perform the deionization process and the circulation process based on whether the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) is higher than a predetermined contamination level (example of 2200).

[0318] According to the present disclosure, the steam generation system (100) can efficiently remove ions contained in water within the steam generation system (100) by including a deionization module (150).

[0319] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of a steam generation system according to one embodiment having a bypass channel. FIG. 20 illustrates another example of a steam generation system according to one embodiment having a bypass channel. FIG. 21 illustrates another example of a steam generation system according to one embodiment having a bypass channel.

[0320] A water tank (80) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is an integrated water supply / drainage tank that stores both water supplied to a steam generator (70) and various condensates generated from a clothing manager (1). To this end, various condensates generated from the clothing manager (1) are temporarily stored in a sump (105), filtered by a water purification filter (109), and then returned to the water tank (80).

[0321] Since the amount of water temporarily stored in the sump (105) is not large, the fact that the water temporarily stored in the sump (105) is filtered by the water purifier (109) does not significantly reduce the lifespan of the water purifier (109).

[0322] However, if the water stored in the water tank (80) or the water in the steam generator (70) is filtered through the water purification filter (109) through the circulation cycle, the life of the water purification filter (109) may be reduced.

[0323] Meanwhile, simply circulating the water stored in the water tank (80) and the water in the steam generator (70) without passing through a filter is of great help in reducing the level of water contamination.

[0324] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of a steam generation system according to one embodiment including a bypass path that bypasses the water filter (109) and leads to a water tank (80).

[0325] FIG. 19 illustrates that the steam generation system (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 13 further includes a bypass flow path. However, the steam generation system (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 may also further include a bypass flow path, and the operations described below may also be applied to the embodiment of the steam generation system (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 further including a bypass flow path.

[0326] Referring to FIG. 19, the circulation pump (120) may be configured to pump water within the steam generator (70) to the sump (105). The sump pump (115) may be configured to pump water stored in the sump (105) to a branch flow path (y0). The branch flow path (y0) may include a first flow path (y1) configured to connect the sump (105) and a water filter (109), and a second flow path (y2) configured to connect the sump (105) and a water tank (80).

[0327] The first flow path (y1) can be configured so that water supplied to the first flow path (y1) flows to the water purification filter (109).

[0328] The second flow path (y2) may be configured so that water supplied to the second flow path (y2) flows into the water tank (80). The second flow path (y2) may also be defined as a bypass flow path from the perspective that water supplied to the second flow path (y2) flows into the water tank (80) by bypassing the water purifier (109).

[0329] A steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may include a first valve (130aa) configured to open and close a first flow path (y1) and a second valve (130ab) configured to open and close a second flow path (y2).

[0330] A valve (130aa) configured to open and close the first flow path (y1) and a valve (130ab) configured to open and close the second flow path (y2) may be implemented as one valve (e.g., a three-way valve).

[0331] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may control at least one valve (130) to open the first flow path (y1) and close the second flow path (y2) when operating the sump pump (115) to recover the condensate stored in the sump (105) to the water tank (80). For example, since the condensate stored in the sump (105) may contain contaminated substances, the clothing manager (1) may open the first flow path (y1), close the second flow path (y2), and operate the sump pump (115) when recovering the condensate stored in the sump (105), thereby allowing the condensate stored in the sump (105) to pass through the water purification filter (109) and be recovered to the water tank (80).

[0332] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can operate the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115) and the feed pump (110) for the circulation cycle, and control at least one valve (130) to open one of the first flow path (y1) or the second flow path (y2) and close the other.

[0333] For example, the control unit (250) may operate the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115), and the feed pump (110) for the circulation operation, control the first valve (130aa) to open the first flow path (y1), and control the second valve (130ab) to close the second flow path (y2). As another example, the control unit (250) may operate the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115), and the feed pump (110) for the circulation operation, control the first valve (130aa) to close the first flow path (y1), and control the second valve (130ab) to open the second flow path (y2).

[0334] When the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115), and the feed water pump (110) operate while the first flow path (y1) is closed and the second flow path (y2) is open, the water in the steam generator (70) can circulate without passing through the water purification filter (109). From the viewpoint that the water in the steam generator (70) bypasses the water purification filter (109), the circulation process that proceeds while the first flow path (y1) is closed and the second flow path (y2) is open can be defined as a bypass circulation process. From the viewpoint that the water in the steam generator (70) is not filtered, the circulation process that proceeds while the first flow path (y1) is closed and the second flow path (y2) is open can be defined as a non-filtering circulation process.

[0335] When the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115), and the feed water pump (110) operate while the first flow path (y1) is open and the second flow path (y2) is closed, the water in the steam generator (70) can circulate through the water purification filter (109). From the perspective that the water in the steam generator (70) passes through the water purification filter (109), the circulation process that proceeds while the first flow path (y1) is open and the second flow path (y2) is closed can be defined as a non-bypass circulation process. From the perspective that the water in the steam generator (70) is filtered, the circulation process that proceeds while the first flow path (y1) is closed and the second flow path (y2) is open can be defined as a filtering circulation process.

[0336] FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate an example in which a water purifier (109) according to one embodiment includes a first filter (109a) and a second filter (109b) positioned downstream of the first filter (109a), and the steam generation system includes a bypass path that bypasses the first filter (109a) and leads to the second filter (109b).

[0337] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the water filter (109) may include a first filter (109a) and a second filter (109b). The water tank (80) may be disposed downstream of the second filter (109b), and the second filter (109b) may be disposed downstream of the first filter (109a). Water flowing into the first filter (109a) may flow into the water tank (80) through the first filter (109a) and the second filter (109b). Water flowing into the second filter (109b) may flow into the water tank (80) through the second filter (109b).

[0338] The first filter (109a) may be a filter capable of removing ions (e.g., an ion exchange resin filter, an electrochemical filter). The second filter (109b) may be a filter capable of removing contaminants other than ions (e.g., a pre-carbon filter, a hollow fiber membrane filter, etc.).

[0339] Referring to FIG. 20, the circulation pump (120) may be configured to pump water within the steam generator (70) to the sump (105). The sump pump (115) may be configured to pump water stored in the sump (105) to the branch flow path (x0).

[0340] The branch flow path (x0) may include a first flow path (x1) configured to connect the sump (105) and the first filter (109a), and a second flow path (x2) configured to connect the sump (105) and the second filter (109b).

[0341] The first euro (x1) can be configured so that water supplied to the first euro (x1) flows to the first filter (109a).

[0342] The second flow path (x2) may be configured such that water supplied to the second flow path (x2) flows to the second filter (109b). The second flow path (x2) may also be defined as a bypass flow path from the perspective that water supplied to the second flow path (x2) bypasses the first filter (109a) and flows to the second filter (109b).

[0343] A steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may include a first valve (130ac) configured to open and close a first flow path (x1) and a second valve (130ad) configured to open and close a second flow path (x2).

[0344] A valve (130ac) configured to open and close the first flow path (x1) and a valve (130ad) configured to open and close the second flow path (x2) may be implemented as one valve (e.g., a three-way valve).

[0345] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may control at least one valve (130) to close the first flow path (x1) and open the second flow path (x2) when operating the sump pump (115) to recover the condensate stored in the sump (105) to the water tank (80). For example, since the condensate stored in the sump (105) is more likely to contain contaminated substances than ions, the clothing manager (1) may close the first flow path (x1) and open the second flow path (x2) and operate the sump pump (115) when recovering the condensate stored in the sump (105), thereby allowing the condensate stored in the sump (105) to pass through the second filter (109b) and be recovered to the water tank (80). According to the present disclosure, the life of the first filter (109a) can be extended.

[0346] However, according to various embodiments, the control unit (250) may control at least one valve (130) to open the first flow path (x1) and close the second flow path (x2) when operating the sump pump (115) to recover condensate stored in the sump (105) to the water tank (80).

[0347] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can operate the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115) and the feed pump (110) for the circulation stroke, and control at least one valve (130) to open one of the first flow path (x1) or the second flow path (x2) and close the other.

[0348] For example, the control unit (250) may operate the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115), and the feed pump (110) for the circulation operation, control the first valve (130ac) to open the first flow path (x1), and control the second valve (130ad) to close the second flow path (x2). As another example, the control unit (250) may operate the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115), and the feed pump (110) for the circulation operation, control the first valve (130ac) to close the first flow path (x1), and control the second valve (130ad) to open the second flow path (x2).

[0349] When the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115), and the feed water pump (110) operate while the first flow path (x1) is closed and the second flow path (x2) is open, the water in the steam generator (70) can circulate only through the second filter (109b) without passing through the first filter (109a). From the viewpoint that the water in the steam generator (70) bypasses the first filter (109a), the circulation process that proceeds while the first flow path (x1) is closed and the second flow path (x2) is open can be defined as a bypass circulation process. From the viewpoint that the ions of the water in the steam generator (70) are not filtered, the circulation process that proceeds while the first flow path (x1) is closed and the second flow path (x2) is open can be defined as a non-ion filtering circulation process.

[0350] When the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115), and the feed pump (110) operate while the first flow path (x1) is open and the second flow path (x2) is closed, the water in the steam generator (70) can circulate through both the first filter (109a) and the second filter (109b). From the perspective that the water in the steam generator (70) passes through both the first filter (109a) and the second filter (109b), the circulation process that proceeds while the first flow path (x1) is open and the second flow path (x2) is closed can be defined as a non-bypass circulation process. From the perspective that the ions of the water in the steam generator (70) are filtered, the circulation process that proceeds while the first flow path (x1) is closed and the second flow path (x2) is open can be defined as an ion filtering circulation process.

[0351] Referring to FIG. 21, the circulation pump (120) may include a first circulation pump (120a) that pumps water in the steam generator (70) to a first flow path (z1), and a second circulation pump (120b) that pumps water in the steam generator (70) to a second flow path (z2). The first circulation pump (120a) may be the same pump as the sump pump (115).

[0352] The sump pump (115) may be configured to pump water stored in the sump (105) to the first flow path (z1). In addition, the sump pump (115) may be configured to pump water within the steam generator (70) to the first flow path (z1).

[0353] The first euro (z1) can be configured so that water supplied to the first euro (z1) flows to the first filter (109a).

[0354] The second flow path (z2) may be configured so that water supplied to the second flow path (z2) flows to the second filter (109b). The second flow path (z2) may also be defined as a bypass flow path from the perspective that water supplied to the second flow path (z2) bypasses the first filter (109a) and flows to the second filter (109b).

[0355] A steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may include a first valve (130j) configured to open and close a first flow path (z1) and a second valve (130h) configured to open and close a second flow path (z2). In addition, the steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may further include a valve (130i) configured to open and close a third flow path (z3) connecting a steam generator (70) and a first circulation pump (120a).

[0356] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can control at least one valve (130) to open the first flow path (z1) and close the third flow path (z3) when operating the sump pump (115) to recover condensate stored in the sump (105) to the water tank (80).

[0357] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may control the second valve (130h) to close the second flow path (z2) when controlling the first valve (130j) to open the first flow path (z1).

[0358] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may control the first valve (130j) to close the first flow path (z1) when controlling the second valve (130h) to open the second flow path (z2).

[0359] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may operate only one of the first circulation pump (120a) or the second circulation pump (120b) for the circulation operation. Operating the first circulation pump (120a) may include opening the third flow path (z3) and the first flow path (z1).

[0360] Operating the second circulation pump (120b) may include opening the second flow path (z2).

[0361] For example, the control unit (250) may operate the first circulation pump (120a) and the feed pump (110) for the circulation cycle, control the first valve (130j) to open the first flow path (z1), control the second valve (130h) to close the second flow path, and control the third valve (130i) to open the third flow path (z3). In this case, the operation of controlling the second valve (130h) to close the second flow path (z2) may be omitted.

[0362] As another example, the control unit (250) may operate the second circulation pump (120b) and the feed pump (110) for the circulation cycle, control the first valve (130j) to close the first flow path (z1), control the third valve (130i) to close the third flow path (z3), and control the second valve (130h) to open the second flow path (z2). In this case, the operation of controlling the first valve (130j) to close the first flow path (z1) may be omitted.

[0363] When the second circulation pump (120b) and the feed water pump (110) operate, the water in the steam generator (70) can circulate only through the second filter (109b) without passing through the first filter (109a). From the perspective that the water in the steam generator (70) bypasses the first filter (109a), the circulation process that proceeds by the operation of the second circulation pump (120b) and the feed water pump (110) can be defined as a bypass circulation process. From the perspective that the ions of the water in the steam generator (70) are not filtered, the circulation process that proceeds by the operation of the second circulation pump (120b) and the feed water pump (110) can also be defined as a non-ion filtering circulation process.

[0364] When the first circulation pump (120a) and the feed water pump (110) operate, the water inside the steam generator (70) can circulate through both the first filter (109a) and the second filter (109b). From the perspective that the water inside the steam generator (70) passes through both the first filter (109a) and the second filter (109b), the circulation process that proceeds by the operation of the first circulation pump (120a) and the feed water pump (110) can be defined as a non-bypass circulation process. From the perspective that the ions of the water inside the steam generator (70) are filtered, the circulation process that proceeds by the operation of the first circulation pump (120a) and the feed water pump (110) can also be defined as an ion filtering circulation process.

[0365] According to the present disclosure, water within the steam generator (70) and / or water stored in the sump (105) can be selectively allowed to bypass or pass through the first filter as needed, thereby improving the life of the first filter.

[0366] FIG. 22 illustrates an example of a method for controlling a garment manager when the steam generation system of the garment manager according to one embodiment has a bypass path.

[0367] FIG. 22 illustrates a control method of a garment manager (1) including a steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 19 to 21.

[0368] Referring to FIG. 22, a garment manager (1) according to one embodiment can collect sensor data related to water within a steam generator (70) (3100). The description of operation 3100 overlaps with the description of operation 1100 of FIG. 16 and will not be repeated.

[0369] The garment manager (1) can identify whether the contamination level of the water within the steam generator (70) exceeds a predetermined level (3200). The description of operation 3200 overlaps with the description of operation 1200 of FIG. 16, and therefore will not be repeated.

[0370] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can identify whether the accumulated storage time of water within the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time (3300). The description of operation 3300 overlaps with the description of operation 1300 of FIG. 16 and will not be repeated.

[0371] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can perform a non-bypass circulation cycle (3400) based on whether the contamination level of water in the steam generator (70) is higher than a predetermined contamination level (example of 3200).

[0372] The control unit (250) can control the steam generation system (100) to perform a non-bypass circulation process based on the fact that the contamination level of water in the steam generation device (70) is higher than a predetermined contamination level (example of 3200).

[0373] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can pump water within the steam generator (70) so that the water passes through the first flow path (x1, y1, z1) and the water filter (109) to be introduced into the water tank (80) to perform a non-bypass circulation cycle.

[0374] In the embodiment of FIG. 19, the control unit (250) can operate the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115), and the feed water pump (110) to perform a non-bypass circulation cycle. The circulation pump (120) can be configured to pump water in the steam generator (70) to the sump (105). The sump pump (115) can be configured to pump water stored in the sump (105) to a branch flow path (y0) including a first flow path (y1) and a second flow path (y2).

[0375] The control unit (250) can control at least one valve (130aa, 130ab) to open the first flow path (y1) and close the second flow path (y2). Accordingly, in the non-bypass circulation cycle, water in the steam generator (70) can pass through the water purification filter (109) and flow into the water tank (80).

[0376] In the embodiment of FIG. 20, the control unit (250) may operate the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115), and the feed water pump (110) to perform a non-bypass circulation cycle. The circulation pump (120) may be configured to pump water in the steam generator (70) to the sump (105). The sump pump (115) may be configured to pump water stored in the sump (105) to a branch flow path (x0) including a first flow path (x1) and a second flow path (x2).

[0377] The control unit (250) can control at least one valve (130ac, 130ad) to open the first flow path (x1) and close the second flow path (x2). Accordingly, in the non-bypass circulation cycle, water in the steam generator (70) can pass through both the first filter (109a) and the second filter (109b) and flow into the water tank (80).

[0378] In the embodiment of Fig. 21, the control unit (250) can operate the first circulation pump (120a) (= sump pump (115)) and the feed water pump (110) to perform a non-bypass circulation cycle. The first circulation pump (120a) can be configured to supply water in the steam generator (70) to the first flow path (z1) via the third flow path (z3).

[0379] The control unit (250) can control at least one valve (130h, 130i, 130j) to open the first flow path (z1) and the third flow path (z3) and close the second flow path (z2). At this time, the control unit (250) may omit the operation of closing the second flow path (z2).

[0380] Accordingly, in a non-bypass circulation cycle, water in the steam generator (70) can pass through both the first filter (109a) and the second filter (109b) and flow into the water tank (80).

[0381] According to the present disclosure, when the contamination of water within the steam generator (70), for example, the ion content of the water within the steam generator (70), is high, the ions of the water within the steam generator (70) can be efficiently removed by performing a non-bypass circulation process that allows the water within the steam generator (70) to pass through the first filter (109a), which is an ion removal filter.

[0382] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can perform a bypass circulation process based on whether the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) is less than a predetermined contamination level (No of 3200) and whether the accumulated storage time of the water in the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time (Yes of 3300) (3500).

[0383] The control unit (250) can control the steam generation system (100) to perform a bypass circulation process based on the fact that the contamination level of the water in the steam generation device (70) is lower than a predetermined contamination level (No of 3200) and the accumulated storage time of the water in the steam generation device (70) has reached a preset time (Yes of 3300).

[0384] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) may pump water within the steam generator (70) so that the water passes through the second flow path (x2, y2, z2) to bypass the water filter (109) or passes only through the second filter (109b) among the first filter (109a) and the second filter (109b) and then flows into the water tank (80) to perform a bypass circulation process.

[0385] In the embodiment of FIG. 19, the control unit (250) may operate the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115), and the feed water pump (110) to perform a bypass circulation cycle. The circulation pump (120) may be configured to pump water within the steam generator (70) to the sump (105). The sump pump (115) may be configured to pump water stored in the sump (105) to a branch flow path (y0) including a first flow path (y1) and a second flow path (y2).

[0386] The control unit (250) can control at least one valve (130aa, 130ab) to close the first flow path (y1) and open the second flow path (y2). Accordingly, in the bypass circulation cycle, water in the steam generator (70) can bypass the water purification filter (109) and flow into the water tank (80).

[0387] In the embodiment of FIG. 20, the control unit (250) can operate the circulation pump (120), the sump pump (115), and the feed water pump (110) to perform a bypass circulation cycle. The circulation pump (120) can be configured to pump water in the steam generator (70) to the sump (105). The sump pump (115) can be configured to pump water stored in the sump (105) to a branch flow path (x0) including a first flow path (x1) and a second flow path (x2).

[0388] The control unit (250) can control at least one valve (130ac, 130ad) to close the first flow path (x1) and open the second flow path (x2). Accordingly, in the bypass circulation cycle, water in the steam generator (70) can pass only through the second filter (109b) and flow into the water tank (80).

[0389] In the embodiment of Fig. 21, the control unit (250) can operate the second circulation pump (120b) and the feed water pump (110) to perform a bypass circulation cycle. The second circulation pump (120b) can be configured to supply water within the steam generator (70) to the second flow path (z3).

[0390] The control unit (250) can control at least one valve (130h, 130i, 130j) to close the first flow path (z1) and the third flow path (z3) and open the second flow path (z2). At this time, the control unit (250) may omit the operation of closing the first flow path (z1).

[0391] Accordingly, in the bypass circulation process, water in the steam generator (70) can only pass through the second filter (109b) and flow into the water tank (80).

[0392] According to the present disclosure, when the contamination level of water within the steam generator (70), for example, the ion content of the water within the steam generator (70), is low, a bypass circulation process is performed to prevent the water within the steam generator (70) from passing through the first filter (109a), which is an ion removal filter, thereby improving the expected life of the first filter (109a).

[0393] In addition, according to the present disclosure, when water has been accumulated in the steam generator (70) for a long time, the water in the water tank (80) and / or the steam generator (70) can be kept clean by circulating the water without passing it through the water purification filter (109) or by passing it only through the second filter for removing floating substances.

[0394] According to the present disclosure, a steam generation system (100) is provided that can be used by a user without recovering / replenishing water.

[0395] Meanwhile, the steam generation system (100) according to the disclosed embodiments may include a sterilizing device (160) for sterilizing water stored in a water tank (80).

[0396] Sterilizing water stored in a water tank (80) may include irradiating the inside of the water tank (80) with ultraviolet rays.

[0397] Meanwhile, when irradiating the inside of a water tank (80) with ultraviolet rays, the higher the water level of the water tank (80), the lower the sterilization efficiency.

[0398] In one embodiment, sterilizing water stored in a water tank (80) may include irradiating ultraviolet rays to water flowing in a separate channel connected to the water tank (80).

[0399] Accordingly, the sterilizer (160) may also be referred to as a water-based sterilizer.

[0400] FIG. 23 illustrates an example of a steam generation system having a sterilizing device according to one embodiment.

[0401] Referring to FIG. 23, a steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may include a sterilizing pump (160p) that pumps water stored in a water tank (80) into a sterilizing channel (160s), a sterilizing device (160) that irradiates ultraviolet rays to water flowing through the sterilizing channel (160s), and / or a valve (130s) that opens and closes the sterilizing channel (160s). However, depending on the embodiment, the valve (130s) may be omitted.

[0402] In one embodiment, the process of pumping water stored in a water tank (80) to a sterilizing path (160s) connected to the water tank (80) and operating the sterilizing device (160) can be defined as a sterilizing process.

[0403] Operating the sterilizer (160) may include turning on the ultraviolet lamp, and stopping the sterilizer (160) may include turning off the ultraviolet lamp.

[0404] The control unit (250) can perform a sterilization process by operating the sterilization pump (160p) and the sterilization device (160). The control unit (250) can control the valve (130s) to open the sterilization path (160s) during the sterilization process.

[0405] The control unit (250) can terminate the sterilization process by stopping the sterilization pump (160p) and the sterilization device (160). The control unit (250) can control the valve (130s) to close the sterilization path (160s) when the sterilization process is not being performed.

[0406] As previously described, water stored in the sump (105) can be supplied to the water tank (80) via the water purification filter (109). The water stored in the water tank (80) can be returned to the water tank (80) via the sterilization path (160s) through a sterilization process. At this time, the water stored in the water tank (80) can be efficiently sterilized.

[0407] FIG. 24 illustrates another example of a steam generation system having a sterilizing device according to one embodiment.

[0408] Referring to FIG. 24, a steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may include a sterilizing pump (160p) that pumps water stored in a water tank (80) to a sterilizing channel (160s) or a purifying channel (160f), a sterilizing device (160) that irradiates ultraviolet rays to water flowing through the sterilizing channel (160s), and / or a valve (130t) that opens and closes the sterilizing channel (160s) or the purifying channel (160f).

[0409] The valve (130t) may be a three-way valve for selectively connecting water stored in the water tank (80) to either a sterilizing channel (160s) or a purifying channel (160f).

[0410] The water purification path (160f) may refer to a path connected to a water purification filter (109).

[0411] The valve (130t) can selectively connect the flow path of water stored in the water tank (80) to a sterilization flow path (160s) or a purification flow path (160f).

[0412] In one embodiment, the process of pumping water stored in the water tank (80) to the purification path (160f) may be defined as a filtering process, and the process of pumping water stored in the water tank (80) to the sterilization path (160s) and operating the sterilization device (160) may be defined as a sterilization process.

[0413] The filtering process may mean a process of connecting the flow path through which water stored in the water tank (80) flows to the purification flow path (160f) and operating the sterilizing pump (160p), and the sterilizing process may mean a process of connecting the flow path through which water stored in the water tank (80) flows to the sterilizing flow path (160s) and operating the sterilizing pump (160p) and the sterilizing device (160).

[0414] The control unit (250) can perform a filtering process and / or a sterilization process by controlling the sterilization pump (160p), valve (130t), and sterilization device (160).

[0415] The control unit (250) can perform the sterilization process for a second predetermined time after performing the filtering process for a first predetermined time. Here, the first predetermined time may be shorter than the second predetermined time.

[0416] For example, the control unit (250) can control the valve (130t) to connect the path through which water stored in the water tank (80) flows to the purification path (160f) and operate the sterilizing pump (160p), and when a first predetermined time has elapsed, control the valve (130t) to connect the path through which water stored in the water tank (80) flows to the sterilizing path (160s) and operate the sterilizing device (160), and when a second predetermined time has elapsed, stop the sterilizing pump (160p) and the sterilizing device (160).

[0417] According to one embodiment, rather than passing the water stored in the sump (105) directly through the water purification filter (109), the water may be first stored in the water tank (80) and then subjected to the filtering and sterilization processes.

[0418] According to the present invention, the water stored in the sump (105) is first stored in the water tank (80) and then the filtering process and sterilization process are performed, so there is less concern about air being introduced into the water purification filter (109).

[0419] FIG. 25 illustrates another example of a steam generation system having a sterilizing device according to one embodiment.

[0420] Referring to FIG. 25, a steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment may include a sterilizing pump (160p) that pumps water stored in a water tank (80) to a sterilizing channel (160s) or a channel (160sp) connected to a sump (105), a sterilizing device (160) that irradiates ultraviolet rays to water flowing through the sterilizing channel (160s), a valve (130u) that opens and closes the channel (160sp) connected to the sterilizing channel (160s) and / or the sump (105), a sump pump (115) that pumps water stored in the sump (105), and a valve (130v) that opens and closes the water purification channel (160f) and / or the water tank channel (160mp).

[0421] The water tank flow path (160 mp) is connected to the water tank (80), through which water pumped by the sump pump (115) can flow.

[0422] The valve (130u) may be a three-way valve for selectively connecting water stored in the water tank (80) to either the sterilization path (160s) or the sump path (160sp).

[0423] The valve (130v) may be a three-way valve for selectively connecting the water stored in the sump (105) to either the purified water path (160f) or the water tank path (160mp).

[0424] In one embodiment, the process of pumping water stored in the sump (105) to the purification path (160f) may be defined as a filtering process, and the process of pumping water stored in the water tank (80) to the sterilization path (160s) and operating the sterilization device (160) may be defined as a sterilization process.

[0425] The filtering process may refer to a process of connecting the flow path through which water stored in the sump (105) flows to the purification flow path (160f) and operating the sump pump (115), and the sterilization process may refer to a process of connecting the flow path through which water stored in the water tank (80) flows to the sterilization flow path (160s) and operating the sterilization pump (160p) and the sterilization device (160).

[0426] The control unit (250) can perform a filtering process and / or a sterilizing process by controlling the sump pump (115), sterilizing pump (160p), valves (130u, 130v), and sterilizing device (160).

[0427] The control unit (250) controls the valve (130u) to open the sump channel (160sp) and close the sterilization channel (160s), and operates the sterilization pump (160p) to allow water stored in the water tank (80) to flow into the sump (105).

[0428] The control unit (250) can perform a filtering process by controlling the valve (130v) to open the water purification path (160f) and close the water tank path (160mp), and operating the sump pump (115). By the filtering process, the water stored in the sump (105) can be filtered through the water purification filter (109).

[0429] After the filtering process, the control unit (250) controls the valve (130v) to close the water purification path (160f) and open the water tank path (160mp), and operates the sump pump (115), thereby allowing the water filtered by the filtering process and stored in the sump (105) to flow into the water tank (80).

[0430] The control unit (250) can perform a sterilization process by controlling the valve (130u) to open the sterilization path (160s) and close the sump path (160sp), and operating the sterilization pump (160p). During the sterilization process, water stored in the water tank (80) can flow into the sterilization path (160s), and water flowing through the sterilization path (160s) can be sterilized by receiving ultraviolet rays from the sterilizer (160) and then flow back into the water tank (80).

[0431] According to the present invention, contamination of the water tank (80) can be prevented by introducing water filtered by the water filter (109) into the water tank (80), and the problem of air being introduced into the water filter (109) can be solved by circulating the water stored in the sump (105) during the filtering process, and the water can be sterilized solely on the water tank (80) side only when a sterilization process is required, thereby solving the hygiene problem of the water tank (80).

[0432] The control unit (250) can perform a sterilization process based on the satisfaction of certain conditions.

[0433] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may perform a sterilization process based on the completion of a clothing care process (e.g., a steam process or a dehumidification process) or a clothing care course.

[0434] For example, the control unit (250) may perform a sterilization process in response to a predetermined time elapsed after the clothing management process (e.g., steaming process or dehumidifying process) or the clothing management course has ended.

[0435] In the embodiment of FIG. 23, the control unit (250) may operate the sump pump (115) for a predetermined period of time based on the termination of the clothing care cycle (e.g., steam cycle or dehumidification cycle) or the clothing care course, thereby allowing the water stored in the sump (105) to flow into the water tank (80) through the water purification filter (109). When the operation of the sump pump (115) is terminated, the control unit (250) may operate the sterilizing pump (160p) and the sterilizing device (160), thereby allowing the water stored in the water tank (80) to be sterilized by the sterilizing device (160) and then returned to the water tank (80).

[0436] In the embodiment of FIG. 24, the control unit (250) can operate the sump pump (115) for a predetermined period of time based on the completion of a clothing management cycle (e.g., steam cycle or dehumidification cycle) or a clothing management course, thereby causing water stored in the sump (105) to flow into the water tank (80).

[0437] The control unit (250) can operate the sump pump (115) for a predetermined period of time and then perform a filtering process so that the water stored in the water tank (80) passes through the water purifier filter (109) and is returned to the water tank (80). When the filtering process is completed, the control unit (250) can perform a sterilization process so that the water stored in the water tank (80) is sterilized by the sterilizer (160) and then returned to the water tank (80).

[0438] In the embodiment of FIG. 25, the control unit (250) can perform a filtering process by controlling the valve (130v) to open the water purification path (160f) and operating the sump pump (115) based on the completion of the clothing care process (e.g., steam process or dehumidification process) or the clothing care course, thereby allowing the water stored in the sump (105) to pass through the water purification filter (109) and be returned to the sump (105). When the filtering process is completed, the control unit (250) can control the valve (130v) to open the water tank path (160mp) and operate the sump pump (115) for a predetermined period of time, thereby allowing the water stored in the sump (105) to flow into the water tank (80). The control unit (250) can perform a sterilization process after operating the sump pump (115) for a predetermined period of time, thereby allowing the water stored in the water tank (80) to be sterilized by the sterilizing device (160) and then returned to the water tank (80).

[0439] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can perform a sterilization process based on the setting of the away mode.

[0440] The away mode can be set by the user through the user interface device (200). For this purpose, the user interface device (200) may include an input device (e.g., a button) for setting the away mode.

[0441] The away mode can be set based on a control command received from a server device and / or user device via the communication unit (300).

[0442] According to the present invention, by sterilizing water stored in a water tank (80) in a flowing manner, it is possible to effectively prevent microorganisms from multiplying in the water tank (80).

[0443] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be applied to other home appliances (or electronic devices) other than the clothing manager (1). For example, the disclosed embodiments may be applied to various devices that may include a steam generation system (100).

[0444] According to various embodiments, various devices such as a washing machine, a dryer, a shoe care machine, a cooking appliance (e.g., a steam oven), a dishwasher, a vacuum cleaner, a steam iron, an air conditioner, and / or a humidifier may include a steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment and a control unit (250) for controlling the steam generation system (100). According to various embodiments, various devices such as a washing machine, a dryer, a shoe care machine, a cooking appliance (e.g., a steam oven), a dishwasher, a vacuum cleaner, a steam iron, an air conditioner, and / or a humidifier may not include some components (e.g., a sump (105)) of the components of the steam generation system (100) according to one embodiment.

[0445] Various appliances, such as washing machines, dryers, shoe care appliances, cooking appliances (e.g., steam ovens), dishwashers, vacuum cleaners, steam irons, air conditioners, steam sterilizers, steam hair styling appliances, and / or humidifiers, can control the steam generation system (100) to perform a circulation cycle based on the satisfaction of certain conditions.

[0446] A washing machine according to one embodiment includes a steam generation system (100) and a control unit (250), and can improve the washing effect by using steam when washing clothes.

[0447] A dryer according to one embodiment includes a steam generation system (100) and a control unit (250), and can sterilize the clothes to be dried using steam when drying the clothes.

[0448] A shoe care device according to one embodiment includes a steam generation system (100) and a control unit (250), and can sterilize shoes by using steam when drying shoes.

[0449] A steam oven according to one embodiment includes a steam generation system (100) and a control unit (250), and can maintain the moisture of food by using steam when cooking food.

[0450] A dishwasher according to one embodiment includes a steam generation system (100) and a control unit (250), and can efficiently wash residues remaining on dishes using steam.

[0451] A cleaner according to one embodiment includes a steam generation system (100) and a control unit (250), and can efficiently clean an area to be cleaned using steam.

[0452] A steam iron according to one embodiment includes a steam generating system (100) and a control unit (250), and can improve ironing performance of clothes by using steam.

[0453] An air conditioner according to one embodiment includes a steam generation system (100) and a control unit (250), and can use steam to control moisture and improve air quality.

[0454] A steam sterilizer according to one embodiment includes a steam generation system (100) and a control unit (250), and can sterilize a sterilization target by spraying steam onto the sterilization target.

[0455] A steam hair styling device according to one embodiment includes a steam generating system (100) and a control unit (250), and can spray steam onto a user's head to assist in hair styling of the user.

[0456] A humidifier according to one embodiment includes a steam generation system (100) and a control unit (250), and can use steam to control moisture and improve air quality.

[0457] A clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a main body (10); a chamber (30) formed inside the main body (10); a heat exchanger (41) configured to dehumidify air in the chamber (30); a water filter (109); a water tank (80) disposed downstream of the water filter (109); a steam generator (70) configured to generate steam using water supplied from the water tank (80) and to inject the generated steam into the chamber (30); a sump (105) configured to store at least one of condensate discharged from the heat exchanger (41) or condensate discharged from the steam generator (70); a water supply pump (110) configured to pump water stored in the water tank (80) to the steam generator (70); a sump pump (115) configured to pump water stored in the sump (105) to the water filter (109); It may include a circulation pump (120) configured to pump water in the steam generator (70) to the sump (105) or the water purification filter (109); and a control unit (250) that operates the circulation pump (120) based on satisfaction of a predetermined condition.

[0458] The above-mentioned predetermined condition may include that the contamination level of the water within the steam generator (70) is higher than a predetermined contamination level.

[0459] The above-described condition may include that the cumulative storage time of water in the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time.

[0460] The above clothing manager (1) further includes a sterilizing pump (160p) configured to pump water stored in the water tank (80) to a sterilizing channel (160s); and a sterilizing device (160) that irradiates ultraviolet rays to water flowing in the sterilizing channel (160s); and the control unit (250) operates the sump pump (115) to pump water stored in the sump (105) to the water purification filter (109) and then operates the sterilizing pump (160p) and the sterilizing device (160), thereby allowing water stored in the water tank (80) to be sterilized in the sterilizing channel (160s) and then returned to the water tank (80).

[0461] The above clothing manager (1) further includes an electrolysis device (140) for electrolyzing water in the steam generator (70), and the control unit (250) can operate the electrolysis device (140) based on the satisfaction of the predetermined condition.

[0462] The above clothing manager (1) further includes a deionization module (150); and a deionization pump (150a) configured to pump water in the steam generator (70) so that the water in the steam generator (70) flows into the steam generator (70) through the deionization module (150); and the control unit (250) can operate the deionization pump (150a) for a predetermined period of time in response to the satisfaction of the predetermined condition, and operate the circulation pump (120) based on the stopping of the operation of the deionization pump (150a).

[0463] The above circulation pump (120) is configured to pump water in the steam generator (70) to the sump (105), and the control unit (250) can operate the circulation pump (120) and the sump pump (115) together based on the satisfaction of the above-described conditions.

[0464] The sump pump (115) is configured to pump water stored in the sump (105) to a branch flow path (y0), and the branch flow path (y0) includes a first flow path (y1) configured to allow water supplied to the branch flow path (y0) to flow to the water filter (109); and a second flow path (y2) configured to allow water supplied to the branch flow path (y0) to flow to the water tank (80); and the clothing manager (1) may include at least one valve (130) that opens and closes the first flow path (y1) and the second flow path (y2).

[0465] The control unit (250) can control the at least one valve (130) so that the first flow path (y1) is closed and the second flow path (y2) is opened based on the fact that the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) is lower than a predetermined contamination level and the accumulated storage time of the water in the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time.

[0466] The control unit (250) can control at least one valve (130) so that the first flow path (y1) is opened and the second flow path (y2) is closed based on the fact that the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) is higher than a predetermined contamination level.

[0467] The water purifier (109) includes a first filter (109a); and a second filter (109b) disposed downstream of the first filter (109a); the water tank (80) is disposed downstream of the second filter (109b); the sump pump (115) is configured to pump water stored in the sump (105) to a branch flow path (x0), and the branch flow path (x0) includes a first flow path (x1) configured to allow water supplied to the branch flow path (x0) to flow to the first filter (109a); and a second flow path (x2) configured to allow water supplied to the branch flow path (x0) to flow to the second filter (109b); and the clothing manager (1) may include at least one valve (130) that opens and closes the first flow path (x1) and the second flow path (x2).

[0468] The above water filter (109) comprises: a first filter (109a); And a second filter (109b) disposed downstream of the first filter (109a); and the water tank (80) is disposed downstream of the second filter (109b), the sump pump (115) is configured to pump water in the steam generator (70) to a first flow path (z1), the circulation pump (120) is configured to pump water in the steam generator (70) to a second flow path (z2), the first flow path (z1) is configured to allow water supplied to the first flow path (z1) to flow to the first filter (109a), and the second flow path (z2) is configured to allow water supplied to the second flow path (z2) to flow to the second filter (109b), and the clothing manager (1) may include at least one valve (130) that opens and closes the first flow path (z1) and the second flow path (z2).

[0469] The control unit (250) can control the at least one valve (130) so that the first flow path (x1, y1, z1) is closed and the second flow path (x2, y2, z2) is opened based on the fact that the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) is lower than a predetermined contamination level and the accumulated storage time of the water in the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time.

[0470] The control unit (250) can control at least one valve (130) so that the first flow path (x1, y1, z1) is opened and the second flow path (x2, y2, z2) is closed based on the fact that the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) is higher than a predetermined contamination level.

[0471] Based on the operation of the circulation pump (120), water in the steam generator (70) flows through the first flow path to the water purification filter (109), and based on the operation of the sump pump (115), water stored in the sump (105) flows through the second flow path to the water purification filter (109), and the clothing manager (1) may include at least one valve (130) that opens and closes the first flow path and the second flow path.

[0472] A method for controlling a clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a water filter (109); a water tank (80) disposed downstream of the water filter (109); a steam generator (70) configured to generate steam using water supplied from the water tank (80) and to inject the generated steam into a chamber (30); and a sump (105) configured to store at least one of condensate discharged from a heat exchanger (41) configured to dehumidify air in the chamber (30) or condensate discharged from the steam generator (70); and, based on satisfaction of a predetermined condition, pumping water in the steam generator (70) to the sump (105) or the water filter (109).

[0473] The above-described predetermined condition may include at least one of the following: the contamination level of the water within the steam generator (70) is higher than the predetermined contamination level or the cumulative storage time of the water within the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time.

[0474] The control method of the above clothing manager (1) may further include operating an electrolysis device (140) for electrolyzing water in the steam generator (70) based on the satisfaction of the above-described condition.

[0475] Pumping water in the steam generator (70) to the sump (105) or the water purification filter (109) includes pumping water in the steam generator (70) to the sump (105); and the control method of the clothing manager (1) may further include pumping water stored in the sump (105) to a branch flow path (y0) including a first flow path (y1) connected to the water purification filter (109) and a second flow path (y2) connected to the water tank (80); and closing the first flow path (y1) and opening the second flow path (y2) based on the fact that the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) is lower than a predetermined contamination level and the cumulative storage time of the water in the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time.

[0476] The water purification filter (109) includes a first filter (109a) and a second filter (109b) disposed downstream of the first filter (109a), and pumping water in the steam generator (70) to the sump (105) or the water purification filter (109) includes pumping water in the steam generator (70) to the sump (105); and the control method of the clothing manager (1) includes pumping water stored in the sump (105) to a branch flow path (x0) including a first flow path (x1) connected to the first filter (109a) and a second flow path (x2) connected to the second filter (109b); It may further include closing the first flow path (x1) and opening the second flow path (x2) based on the fact that the contamination level of the water in the steam generator (70) is lower than a predetermined contamination level and the accumulated storage time of the water in the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time.

[0477] 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 a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0478] Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disks, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

[0479] 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.

[0480] According to one embodiment, the method according to 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., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated on a machine-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0481] The above has illustrated and described specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims below. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will readily be able to combine any of the embodiments described in this disclosure with other embodiments.

Claims

1. Main body; A chamber formed inside the above body; A heat exchanger configured to dehumidify the air in the chamber; water filter; A water tank placed downstream of the above water purifier; A steam generating device configured to generate steam using water supplied from the water tank and spray the generated steam into the chamber; A sump configured to store at least one of the condensate discharged from the heat exchanger or the condensate discharged from the steam generator; A feed water pump configured to pump water stored in the water tank to the steam generator; A sump pump configured to pump water stored in the sump to the water purification filter; A circulation pump configured to pump water in the steam generator to the sump or the water purification filter; and A clothing manager including a control unit that operates the circulation pump based on satisfaction of a predetermined condition.

2. In paragraph 1, The above conditions are, A clothing manager comprising at least one of: a contamination level of water within the steam generating device exceeding a predetermined contamination level or a cumulative storage time of water within the steam generating device reaching a preset time.

3. In paragraph 1, A sterilizing pump configured to pump water stored in the water tank into a sterilizing path; and It further includes a sterilizing device that irradiates ultraviolet rays to water flowing in the sterilizing tube; The above control unit, A clothing care device that operates the sump pump to pump water stored in the sump to the water filter, and then operates the sterilizing pump and the sterilizing device so that water stored in the water tank is sterilized in the sterilizing path and then returned to the water tank.

4. In paragraph 1, Further comprising an electrolysis device for electrolyzing water in the steam generator; The above control unit, A clothing manager that operates the electrolysis device based on the satisfaction of the above-mentioned conditions.

5. In paragraph 1, Deionization module; and Further comprising a deionization pump configured to pump water within the steam generator so that the water within the steam generator passes through the deionization module and flows into the steam generator; The above control unit, A clothing manager that operates the deionization pump for a predetermined period of time in response to the satisfaction of the above-mentioned predetermined condition, and operates the circulation pump based on the stopping of the operation of the deionization pump.

6. In paragraph 1, The above circulation pump, configured to pump water within the above steam generator to the sump, The above control unit, A clothes manager that operates the circulation pump and the sump pump together based on the satisfaction of the above-mentioned conditions.

7. In paragraph 1, The above sump pump, configured to pump water stored in the above sump into a branch flow path; The above quarterly euro is, A first flow path configured to allow water supplied through the above branch flow path to flow into the water purifier; and A second flow path is configured to allow water supplied through the above branch flow path to flow into the water tank; The above clothing manager, A garment manager comprising at least one valve for opening and closing the first euro and the second euro.

8. In paragraph 7, The above control unit, A garment manager that controls the at least one valve so that the first passage is closed and the second passage is opened based on the fact that the contamination level of the water within the steam generator is lower than a predetermined contamination level and the cumulative storage time of the water within the steam generator has reached a preset time.

9. In paragraph 7, The above control unit, A garment manager that controls at least one valve so that the first passage is opened and the second passage is closed based on the contamination level of water within the steam generator being higher than a predetermined contamination level.

10. In paragraph 1, The above water filter, first filter; and A second filter disposed downstream of the first filter; The above water tank is placed downstream of the second filter, The above sump pump, configured to pump water stored in the above sump into a branch flow path; The above quarterly euro is, A first flow path configured to allow water supplied through the above branch flow path to flow into the first filter; and A second flow path is provided so that water supplied through the above branch flow path flows to the second filter; The above clothing manager, A garment manager comprising at least one valve for opening and closing the first euro and the second euro.

11. In paragraph 1, The above water filter, first filter; and A second filter disposed downstream of the first filter; The above water tank is placed downstream of the second filter, The above sump pump is configured to pump water in the steam generator into the first flow path, The above circulation pump is configured to pump water within the steam generator to the second flow path, The above first euro is configured so that water supplied to the above first euro flows to the above first filter, The second euro is configured so that water supplied to the second euro flows to the second filter, The above clothing manager, A garment manager comprising at least one valve for opening and closing the first euro and the second euro.

12. In clause 10 or 11, The above control unit, A garment manager that controls the at least one valve so that the first passage is closed and the second passage is opened based on the fact that the contamination level of the water within the steam generator is lower than a predetermined contamination level and the cumulative storage time of the water within the steam generator has reached a preset time.

13. In clause 10 or 11, The above control unit, A garment manager that controls at least one valve so that the first passage is opened and the second passage is closed based on the contamination level of water within the steam generator being higher than a predetermined contamination level.

14. In paragraph 1, Based on the operation of the above circulation pump, water in the steam generator flows through the first path to the water purification filter, and based on the operation of the above sump pump, water stored in the sump flows through the second path to the water purification filter. The above clothing manager, A garment manager comprising at least one valve for opening and closing the first euro and the second euro.

15. A method for controlling a clothing manager including a water purifier, a water tank arranged downstream of the water purifier, a steam generator configured to generate steam using water supplied from the water tank and inject the generated steam into a chamber, and a sump configured to store at least one of condensate discharged from a heat exchanger configured to dehumidify air in the chamber or condensate discharged from the steam generator, A method for controlling a garment manager, comprising: pumping water in the steam generator to the sump or the water purification filter based on satisfaction of a predetermined condition.

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