Clothes care apparatus and method for controlling same

Abstract

This clothes care apparatus comprises: a steam generating device; a water tank configured to supply water to the steam generating device and collect the water discharged from the steam generating device; a microorganism detection sensor configured to collect first sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank; a water level sensor configured to collect second sensor data related to the water level of the water tank; a sterilizing device configured to sterilize water stored in the water tank; and a control unit that controls the sterilizing device on the basis of a first function related to the second sensor data when a microorganism contamination level determined on the basis of the first sensor data is less than a reference contamination level, and controls the sterilizing device on the basis of a second function related to the second sensor data when the microorganism contamination level is equal to or greater than the reference contamination level.

Description

Garment manager and method for controlling the garment manager

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a clothing care machine including a sterilizing device for sterilizing water stored in a water tank and a method for controlling the clothing care machine.

[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, convenience for the user is improved because the user does not have to fill the water tank with water and empty the water in the drain tank.

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

[0008] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, the efficiency of a sterilizing device can be improved.

[0009] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a clothing manager and a method for controlling the clothing manager are provided, which can control the operation of a sterilizing device by considering not only the water quality but also the microbial contamination level in a water tank.

[0010] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a clothing manager and a method of controlling the clothing manager are provided, which enable a user to request cleaning of a water tank when the water tank cannot be completely sterilized by a sterilizing device.

[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] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a clothing manager comprises: a steam generator; a water tank configured to supply water to the steam generator and to recover water discharged from the steam generator; a microorganism detection sensor configured to collect first sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank; a water level sensor configured to collect second sensor data related to the water level of the water tank; a sterilizing device configured to sterilize water stored in the water tank; and a control unit configured to control the sterilizing device based on a first function related to the second sensor data when a microbial contamination level determined based on the first sensor data is less than a reference contamination level, and to control the sterilizing device based on a second function related to the second sensor data when the microbial contamination level is equal to or greater than the reference contamination level; wherein the first function and the second function are configured to determine an operation time of the sterilizing device based on the second sensor data, and a maximum operation time of the sterilizing device determinable by the first function is shorter than a minimum operation time of the sterilizing device determinable by the second function.

[0013] A method for controlling a clothing manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a steam generator; a water tank configured to supply water to the steam generator and recover water discharged from the steam generator; and a sterilizing device configured to sterilize water stored in the water tank; wherein the method comprises: receiving first sensor data from a microorganism detection sensor configured to collect first sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank; receiving second sensor data from a water level sensor configured to collect second sensor data related to a water level of the water tank; and controlling the sterilizing device based on a first function related to the second sensor data when the microbial contamination level determined based on the first sensor data is less than a reference contamination level; If the microbial contamination level is higher than the reference contamination level, controlling the sterilizing device based on a second function related to the second sensor data; wherein the first function and the second function are configured to determine an operating time of the sterilizing device based on the second sensor data, and a maximum operating time of the sterilizing device that can be determined by the first function is shorter than a minimum operating time of the sterilizing device that can be determined by the second function.

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

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

[0016] FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional drawing of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an exploded view of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

[0018] 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.

[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.

[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.

[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.

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

[0025] Fig. 12 illustrates an example of a water tank of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

[0026] Figures 13a and 13b illustrate an example of a microbial detection sensor according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 14 schematically illustrates an example of a steam generation system of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 15 is a control block diagram of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

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

[0030] Figures 17a and 17b illustrate an example of a lookup table related to a floating bacteria sterilization mode and an attached bacteria sterilization mode according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 18 illustrates an example of an interface provided by a garment manager when cleaning of a water tank is required according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of an interface by a garment manager when a user input is received to start a garment management process when a water tank needs to be washed according to one embodiment.

[0033] 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.

[0034] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0038] 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).

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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).

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] The main body (10) may include an external cabinet (11) and an internal cabinet (12) placed inside the external cabinet (11).

[0049] 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).

[0050] 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).

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] A water tank (80) that is detachable from the main body (10) may be installed at the lower portion of the main body (10). The water tank (80) may be placed at the lower portion of the chamber (30). However, the location of the water tank (80) is not limited thereto. The water tank (80) being detachable from the main body (10) may include the water tank (80) being withdrawable or retractable (mounted or docked) from a storage space formed in the main body (10).

[0054] In one embodiment, the water tank (80) can collect various condensates generated in the clothing manager (1) and can also supply water to the steam generating device (70). The various condensates generated in the clothing manager (1) can include water discharged from the steam generating device (70).

[0055] The water tank (80) can recover water discharged from the steam generator (70) and supply it back 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.

[0056] In one embodiment, a bulkhead may not be formed inside the water tank (80). That is, for example, the water tank (80) may be provided as an integrated water supply / drainage unit.

[0057] 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).

[0058] 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).

[0059] 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.

[0060] A heat exchanger (41), a first fan (42), a compressor (43), and a steam generator (70) can be placed inside the machine room (40).

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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) via the compressor (43), the latent heat is released toward the surrounding air, thereby heating the surrounding air. That is, 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.

[0063] Air introduced from the chamber (30) into the machine room (40) by the first fan (42) can be dehumidified through the heat exchanger (41).

[0064] That is, 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).

[0065] In that the air inside the chamber (30) is humidified by the steam sprayed from the steam generator (70) and the heat exchanger (41) dehumidifies the air, the water discharged from the steam generator (70) may include condensate discharged from the heat exchanger (41).

[0066] 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).

[0067] In the machine room (40), ducts (33, 34) connecting the first airflow inlet (31a) and the first airflow outlet (31b) may be arranged. Specifically, the ducts (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).

[0068] 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).

[0069] 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).

[0070] 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).

[0071] 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).

[0072] 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).

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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).

[0075] 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).

[0076] 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).

[0077] The steam injection unit (90) can be placed at the lower rear side of the chamber (30).

[0078] The steam generator (73) may include a space for storing water. That is, 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).

[0079] 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).

[0080] 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).

[0081] 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 water discharged from the steam generator (70).

[0082] The water discharged from the steam generator (70) may include condensate discharged from the heat exchanger (41) and / or condensate discharged from the steam injection unit (90).

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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. 14) 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).

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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).

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] The clothing manager (1) may include a second fan (37) for circulating the air inside.

[0090] 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).

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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).

[0093] 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).

[0094] 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).

[0095] 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).

[0096] 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).

[0097] 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).

[0098] 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).

[0099] 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).

[0100] The filter member (60) may include a dust collecting filter (not shown) for removing dust or a means for deodorization.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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).

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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).

[0105] 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).

[0106] 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).

[0107] 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).

[0108] 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. That is, 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).

[0109] 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).

[0110] 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).

[0111] 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).

[0112] A second sealing member (117) may be provided at the portion where the steam nozzle (111) and the nozzle cover (112) are joined. Steam can be prevented from leaking out through the portion where the steam nozzle (111) and the nozzle cover (112) are joined by the second sealing member (117).

[0113] 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).

[0114] 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).

[0115] 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).

[0116] 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).

[0117] 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).

[0118] 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).

[0119] 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.

[0120] That is, for example, since the clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention is arranged so that the condensate generated in the steam injection unit (90) sequentially passes through the second duct (34) and the first duct (33) by its own weight and then moves 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 elsewhere in the clothing manager (1) and moved to the water tank (80). Since the clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention can collect the condensate in one place and recover it 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.

[0121] According to one embodiment, various condensates discharged from the steam generator (70) may be stored in the sump (105). The various condensates discharged from the steam generator (70) may include condensates discharged from the heat exchanger (41) and / or condensates discharged from the steam injection unit (90).

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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). More specifically, 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).

[0124] 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).

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] The case (710) can receive water from the water tank (80) through the water supply connection member (768). That is, for example, water required to generate steam can be moved from the water tank (80) to the case (710) and stored there. The water supply connection member (768) can include a configuration that can form a flow path, such as a hose and / or a pipe. The garment manager (1) can include a water supply pump (110; see FIG. 14) for supplying water stored in the water tank (80) to the steam generator (70) through the water supply connection member (768).

[0128] The case (710) may be formed in a shape roughly similar to a rectangular parallelepiped. However, it is not limited thereto.

[0129] 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.

[0130] The steam generator (70) may include a heater (730) placed inside the case (710) to heat water stored in the case (710).

[0131] 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).

[0132] 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).

[0133] 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 the heater (730) from overheating and being damaged. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0134] 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).

[0135] 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).

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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).

[0138] 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).

[0139] 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).

[0140] 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).

[0141] 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).

[0142] 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).

[0143] 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).

[0144] 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).

[0145] 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).

[0146] 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).

[0147] The electrode sensor (770) may include a common electrode (773).

[0148] The common electrode (773) may be supported by the first housing (781). That is, 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).

[0149] 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).

[0150] 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).

[0151] 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.

[0152] 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) and / or the condensate discharged from the steam injection unit (90) can be stored in the sump (105). The condensate stored in the sump (105) can be recovered to the water tank (80).

[0153] Fig. 12 illustrates an example of a water tank of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 12, a clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment may include a sterilizing device (81) for sterilizing water stored in a water tank (80).

[0155] The sterilizing device (81) may include a UV emitter that irradiates ultraviolet rays.

[0156] The ultraviolet irradiation unit can irradiate ultraviolet rays in a direction toward the water stored in the water tank (80).

[0157] In one embodiment, the ultraviolet irradiation unit may be provided at a position where ultraviolet irradiation can be directed toward the water tank (80) when the water tank (80) is inserted into the main body (10). In one embodiment, the ultraviolet irradiation unit may be provided in the water tank (80).

[0158] For example, as illustrated in Fig. 12, an ultraviolet irradiation unit may be provided on the upper side of a water tank (80) to irradiate ultraviolet rays toward the bottom surface of the water tank (80). The bottom surface of the water tank (80) may include the bottom surface of a space capable of containing water.

[0159] However, the position of the ultraviolet irradiation unit is not limited to the example shown in Fig. 12, and when one side (e.g., bottom or side) of the water tank (80) is made of a transparent material, the ultraviolet irradiation unit may be provided close to one side (e.g., bottom or side) of the water tank (80) to irradiate ultraviolet rays toward one side (bottom or side) of the water tank (80).

[0160] A clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment may include a water level sensor (82) that detects the water level of a water tank (80) (the water level stored in the water tank (80)).

[0161] The water level sensor (82) can collect sensor data related to the water level of the water tank (80). The water level sensor (82) can transmit the sensor data related to the water level of the water tank (80) to the control unit (250). The control unit (250) can determine the water level of the water tank (80) based on the sensor data related to the water level of the water tank (80) received from the water level sensor (82).

[0162] In one embodiment, the water level sensor (82) may include a non-contact sensor such as a capacitive sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, and / or an optical sensor.

[0163] The capacitance sensor can detect the water level of the water tank (80) by detecting a change in the electric capacitance of the water tank (80) according to a change in the water level.

[0164] The ultrasonic sensor can detect the water level of the water tank (80) by measuring the time it takes for an ultrasonic signal generated from the ultrasonic sensor to be reflected by water stored in the water tank (80) and return.

[0165] The optical sensor can detect the water level of the water tank (80) by measuring the time it takes for light emitted from the optical sensor to be reflected back to the water stored in the water tank (80).

[0166] In one embodiment, the water level sensor (82) may be provided in a receiving space that accommodates the water tank (80). In one embodiment, the water level sensor (82) may be provided in the water tank (80).

[0167] Examples of the water level sensor (82) are not limited to non-contact sensors, and according to various embodiments, the water level sensor (82) may include a pressure sensor that detects the pressure of water stored in the water tank (80) or a contact sensor such as the electrode sensor described above.

[0168] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) may include a microbial detection sensor (85) that detects microorganisms attached to a water tank (80). In one embodiment, the microbial detection sensor (85) may be provided in a receiving space that receives the water tank (80). In one embodiment, the microbial detection sensor (85) may be provided in the water tank (80).

[0169] The microbial detection sensor (85) can collect sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank (80). The microbial detection sensor (85) can transmit the sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank (80) to the control unit (250). The control unit (250) can determine the microbial contamination level based on the sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank (80) received from the microbial detection sensor (85).

[0170] The microbial detection sensor (85) may include at least one sensor capable of detecting the amount of microorganisms attached to one surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the water tank (80).

[0171] An example of a microbial detection sensor (85) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 13a and 13b.

[0172] A water tank (80) according to one embodiment may include a drain (88) for recovering water discharged from a steam generator (70) and a water supply port (89) for supplying water to the steam generator (70).

[0173] The drain (88) can be connected to a connecting member (e.g., a pipe or hose) that connects the sump (105) and the water tank (80).

[0174] The water supply port (89) can be connected to a connecting member (e.g., a pipe or hose) that connects the steam generator (70) and the water tank (80).

[0175] A clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment may further include a water quality sensor (86) that detects the quality of water stored in a water tank (80).

[0176] The water quality sensor (86) can collect sensor data related to the water quality of water stored in the water tank (80). The water quality may include water turbidity, ion concentration, or acidity.

[0177] The water quality sensor (86) may include a turbidity sensor that detects the turbidity of water stored in the water tank (80), an electrical conductivity sensor that detects the ion concentration, and / or a pH sensor that detects the acidity.

[0178] According to various embodiments, components such as a sterilizing device (81), a microbial detection sensor (85), a water level sensor (82), and / or a water quality sensor (86) may be provided in a water tank (80) or may be provided in a main body (10) of a clothing manager (1).

[0179] When electrical components such as a sterilizing device (81), a microbial detection sensor (85), a water level sensor (82), and / or a water quality sensor (86) are provided in the water tank (80), the water tank (80) may further include a power supply unit for receiving power from the main body (10) of the clothing manager (1).

[0180] The power supply unit of the water tank (80) may include a power terminal that can be electrically connected to a power source provided in the main body (10) of the clothing manager (1) when the water tank (80) is mounted on the main body (10) of the clothing manager (1).

[0181] Although not shown in the drawing, the water tank (80) may include a door that can be opened and closed to store water. After opening the door of the water tank (80), the user can empty the water stored in the water tank (80) or refill the water tank (80). In addition, after opening the door of the water tank (80), the user can clean the inside of the water tank (80).

[0182] Figures 13a and 13b illustrate an example of a microbial detection sensor according to one embodiment.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 13a, in one embodiment, the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80) may have a transparent area (80a). The bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80) may include the bottom surface of a space capable of containing water. The transparent area (80a) may be made of a transparent material such as quartz or glass.

[0184] In one embodiment, the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80) may be distinct from the bottom surface of the housing forming the water tank (80). In one embodiment, the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80) may also be the bottom surface of the housing forming the water tank (80).

[0185] The microbial detection sensor (85) may include a light emitting portion (83a) that irradiates light toward the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80) and a light receiving portion (83b) positioned on the lower side of the transparent area (80a).

[0186] In one embodiment, the light emitting unit (83a) that irradiates light toward the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80) may be a light emitting unit that emits visible light. In this case, the light emitting unit (83a) may refer to a light source separate from the ultraviolet irradiation unit of the sterilizing device (81).

[0187] In one embodiment, the light emitting unit (83a) that irradiates light toward the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80) may be a laser irradiation unit that irradiates a laser. In this case, the light emitting unit (83a) may mean a light source separate from the ultraviolet irradiation unit of the sterilizing device (81).

[0188] In one embodiment, the light emitting unit (83a) that irradiates light toward the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80) may be a sterilizing device (81) (ultraviolet irradiation unit).

[0189] The light receiving unit (83b) can detect the amount of light emitted from the light emitting unit (83a). For example, the light receiving unit (83b) may include a light sensor, a photo sensor, a laser light receiving unit, and / or an image sensor.

[0190] Light (e.g., visible light, ultraviolet light, or laser) emitted from the light emitting portion (83a) can be transmitted to the light receiving portion (83b) through the transparent area (80a), and the light receiving portion (83b) can measure the amount of light transmitted through the transparent area (80a).

[0191] When microorganisms are attached to the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80), i.e., for example, when a biofilm is formed, the amount of light received by the light receiving unit (83b) decreases.

[0192] That is, for example, sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank (80) may include light quantity data collected by the light receiving unit (83b).

[0193] When microorganisms are attached to the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80), i.e., for example, when a biofilm is formed, the brightness or saturation of the image generated by the light collected by the light receiving unit (83b) decreases.

[0194] That is, for example, sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank (80) may include luminance data and / or saturation data of the semantic information generated by light collected by the light receiving unit (83b).

[0195] Referring to FIG. 13b, in one embodiment, a pair of electrode sensors (84a) may be provided on the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80).

[0196] The microbial detection sensor (85) may include a pair of electrode sensors (84a) provided on the bottom surface of the water tank (80) and a resistance sensor (84b) that measures the resistance value between the pair of electrode sensors (84a).

[0197] When microorganisms are attached to the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80), i.e., for example, when a biofilm is formed, the resistance value between the electrode sensors (84a) increases.

[0198] That is, for example, sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to a water tank (80) may include data regarding the resistance value between electrode sensors (84a) collected by resistance sensors (84b).

[0199] Examples of microbial detection sensors (85) are not limited to the examples described above, and any sensor capable of collecting sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to a water tank (80) can be employed as the microbial detection sensor (85) without limitation.

[0200] FIG. 14 schematically illustrates an example of a steam generation system of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

[0201] Referring to FIG. 14, the steam generation system (100) may include a steam generation device (70), a sump (105), a water purification filter (109), and a water tank (80).

[0202] 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).

[0203] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14, the circulation pump (120) pumps water within the steam generator (70) to the sump (105); however, in various embodiments, the circulation pump (120) may directly connect the steam generator (70) and the water purification filter (109). That is, for example, the circulation pump (120) may directly pump water within the steam generator (70) to the water purification filter (109).

[0204] 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).

[0205] 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).

[0206] In one embodiment, the control unit (250, see FIG. 15) may operate the sump pump (115) for a predetermined period of time based on the completion of a garment care cycle (e.g., steam cycle) or garment course.

[0207] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may operate the sump pump (115) based on the termination of operation of the feed pump (110).

[0208] 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).

[0209] 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).

[0210] 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 generation device (70) and a sump (105), and a valve (130c) for opening and closing a passage connecting a water tank (80) and a steam generation device (70). According to various embodiments, at least one valve (130) among the plurality of valves (130a, 130b, 130c) may be omitted.

[0211] 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.

[0212] 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).

[0213] The control unit (250) may operate the circulation pump (120) based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition may include that the contamination level of the water within the steam generator (70) is higher than a predetermined contamination level and / or that the accumulated storage time of the water within the steam generator (70) has reached a preset time. That is, for example, the predetermined condition may include an event that indicates a high probability that the water within the steam generator (70) has been contaminated.

[0214] When the control unit (250) operates the circulation pump (120), it can operate the sump pump (115) and the feed pump (110) together.

[0215] 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).

[0216] In one embodiment, the water discharged from the steam generator (70) may include water moved from the steam generator (70) to the water tank (80) by the operation of the circulation pump (120).

[0217] 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.

[0218] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the clothing manager (1) can continuously reuse water stored in the water tank (80) by filtering water through a water filter (109) and then returning the water to the water tank (80), sterilizing the water with a sterilizing device (81), and then supplying the water back to the steam generator (70).

[0219] Fig. 15 is a control block diagram of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

[0220] Referring to FIG. 15, 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 (e.g., including a steam generator) (100), a user interface device (e.g., including an interface circuit) (200), a communication unit (300), and / or a control unit (e.g., including a processing circuit) (250).

[0221] 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).

[0222] 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).

[0223] 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).

[0224] The steam generation system (100) can supply steam to the chamber (30).

[0225] The steam generation system (100) may include a steam generation device (70) including a water tank (80) and a steam generator that generates steam using water supplied from the water tank (80) and sprays the generated steam into a chamber (30).

[0226] 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).

[0227] 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).

[0228] 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).

[0229] 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).

[0230] 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).

[0231] 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).

[0232] 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).

[0233] 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).

[0234] 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.).

[0235] According to one embodiment, the steam generation system (100) may further include a sterilizing device (e.g., including an ultraviolet irradiation unit) (81) for sterilizing water stored in the water tank (80). The sterilizing device (81) for sterilizing water stored in the water tank (80) may include an ultraviolet irradiation unit.

[0236] In one embodiment, the sterilizer (81) may be provided in the water tank (80). That is, for example, the sterilizer (81) may be a component of the steam generation system (100).

[0237] In one embodiment, the sterilizing device (81) may be provided in the main body (10) of the clothing manager (1). That is, for example, the sterilizing device (81) may be a component of the clothing manager (1).

[0238] As described above, the sterilizing device (81) may include an ultraviolet irradiation unit. The ultraviolet irradiation unit may irradiate ultraviolet rays toward water stored in the water tank (80).

[0239] The sterilizing device (81) can be controlled based on a control signal from the control unit (250).

[0240] Various components of the steam generation system (100) (e.g., heater (730), feed pump (110), sump pump (115), circulation pump (120), valve (130), and / or sterilizer (81)) can be controlled based on a control signal of the control unit (250).

[0241] The control unit (250) includes a processor (e.g., including a processing circuit) (251) and / or a memory (252), and can control the operation of the sterilizer (81). In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can control the operating time of the sterilizer (81). Controlling the operating time of the sterilizer (81) can include controlling the irradiation time for which the ultraviolet irradiation unit irradiates ultraviolet rays.

[0242] The control unit (250) can control the operating time of the sterilizing device (81) based on sensor data collected from at least one sensor (82, 85, 86).

[0243] The user interface device (200) includes various interface circuits and can enable the user and the garment manager (1) to interact with each other.

[0244] The user interface device (200) may include at least one input interface device (201) and at least one output interface device (202).

[0245] At least one input interface device (201) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0246] 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.

[0247] Each button may include a visual indicator (e.g., text, an icon, etc.) that indicates its function.

[0248] The power button is used to turn the power of the garment manager (1) on or off.

[0249] The course selection button is used to select the course of the garment manager (1).

[0250] The course selection button may include a button for selecting a course for managing clothing accommodated in the chamber (30).

[0251] 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.

[0252] 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.

[0253] The Run / Pause button is used to run the selected course or temporarily stop the course in progress.

[0254] 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.

[0255] 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.

[0256] 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.

[0257] 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.

[0258] 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, a 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.

[0259] The communication unit (300) can communicate with external devices (e.g., servers, user devices, and / or home appliances) via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0260] The communication unit (300) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0261] 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.

[0262] 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, a 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).

[0263] 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.

[0264] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0265] 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).

[0266] The water level sensor (82) can collect sensor data related to the water level of the water tank (80). The sensor data collected by the water level sensor (82) can be transmitted to the control unit (250).

[0267] The microbial detection sensor (85) can collect sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank (80). The sensor data collected by the microbial detection sensor (85) can be transmitted to the control unit (250).

[0268] The water quality sensor (86) can collect sensor data related to the water quality of water stored in the water tank (80). The sensor data collected by the water quality sensor (86) can be transmitted to the control unit (250).

[0269] The control unit (250) can process data collected from various components of the clothing manager (1) (e.g., user interface device (200), communication unit (300), water level sensor (82), microbial detection sensor (85), water quality sensor (86)). The control unit (250) can process user input input through the user interface device (200) and / or communication unit (300) and perform an operation corresponding to the user input.

[0270] 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).

[0271] Garment care courses may include steam administration.

[0272] 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.

[0273] The control unit (250) can operate the heater (730) to heat water in the steam generator (70) during the steam administration.

[0274] 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.

[0275] 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).

[0276] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may operate the sterilizing device (81) in response to the termination of the clothing care course. For example, the control unit (250) may operate the sterilizing device (81) for a target time determined based on sensor data collected from at least one sensor (82, 85, 86) when the clothing care course is terminated.

[0277] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can operate the circulation pump (120) based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition.

[0278] 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).

[0279] 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.

[0280] 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.

[0281] 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).

[0282] 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.

[0283] 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 sterilizing device (81), the water level sensor (82), the microbial detection sensor (85), the water quality sensor (86), the user interface device (200), and / or the communication unit (300).

[0284] The configurations illustrated in FIG. 15 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. 15, and may not include some of the configurations illustrated in FIG. 15.

[0285] For example, the garment manager (1) according to one embodiment may not include a water quality sensor (86). According to various embodiments, the water quality sensor (86) may be replaced with a contamination sensor (765) for detecting the contamination level of water within the steam generator (70). That is, for example, in one embodiment, the control unit (250) may control the sterilizing device (81) based on sensor data collected from the contamination sensor (765) for detecting the contamination level of water within the steam generator (70).

[0286] As another example, a garment manager (1) according to one embodiment may further include a mounting detection sensor for detecting whether a water tank (80) is mounted. The mounting detection sensor may detect whether the water tank (80) is withdrawn from and / or installed in the garment manager (1).

[0287] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may stop the operation of the sterilizer (81) based on the water tank (80) being withdrawn from the main body (10) during the operation of the sterilizer (81). Stopping the operation of the sterilizer (81) may include temporarily stopping the operation of the sterilizer (81) and / or completely stopping the operation of the sterilizer (81).

[0288] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may stop the operation of the sterilizer (81) based on the water tank (80) being withdrawn from the main body (10) during the operation of the sterilizer (81), and then operate the sterilizer (81) for the remaining time based on the water tank (80) being mounted on the main body (10).

[0289] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may stop the operation of the sterilizing device (81) based on the start of the clothing management cycle of the clothing manager (1) during the operation of the sterilizing device (81). Stopping the operation of the sterilizing device (81) may include completely stopping the operation of the sterilizing device (81).

[0290] Fig. 16 illustrates an example of a control method of a garment manager according to one embodiment.

[0291] According to various embodiments, the garment manager (1) may perform an operation of controlling the sterilizing device (81) illustrated in FIG. 16 based on the termination of a garment management cycle (e.g., steam cycle) or a garment course. However, the timing at which the garment manager (1) performs the operation of controlling the sterilizing device (81) illustrated in FIG. 16 is not limited thereto. For example, the garment manager (1) may periodically perform an operation of controlling the sterilizing device (81) illustrated in FIG. 16. As another example, the garment manager (1) may perform an operation of controlling the sterilizing device (81) illustrated in FIG. 16 based on the termination of the operation of the sump pump (115). As another example, the garment manager (1) may perform an operation of controlling the sterilizing device (81) illustrated in FIG. 16 based on the termination of the operation of the circulation pump (120). As another example, the clothing manager (1) can perform an operation to control the sterilizing device (81) illustrated in FIG. 16 based on the start of operation of the sump pump (115). As another example, the clothing manager (1) can perform an operation to control the sterilizing device (81) illustrated in FIG. 16 based on the start of operation of the circulation pump (120).

[0292] Referring to FIG. 16, a clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment can determine the microbial contamination level based on sensor data (hereinafter, “first sensor data”) collected from a microbial detection sensor (85) (1000).

[0293] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can determine the microbial contamination level based on the first sensor data. For example, when the microbial detection sensor (85) includes a light receiving unit (83b), the control unit (250) can identify the microbial contamination level corresponding to the amount of light received by the light receiving unit (83b) based on a lookup table pre-stored in the memory (252). As another example, when the microbial detection sensor (85) includes a resistance sensor (84b), the control unit (250) can identify the microbial contamination level corresponding to the resistance value between the electrode sensors (84a) measured by the resistance sensor (84b) based on a lookup table pre-stored in the memory (252).

[0294] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can notify the user of the microbial contamination level. For example, the control unit (250) can control the output interface device (202) to output information on the microbial contamination level. As another example, the control unit (250) can control the communication unit (300) to transmit information on the microbial contamination level to an external device.

[0295] According to the present disclosure, the user can check information on the microbial contamination level inside the water tank (80), so that the user's reliability regarding the contamination level of the water tank (80) can be secured.

[0296] The clothing manager (1) can compare the microbial contamination level with the standard contamination level (1100).

[0297] Comparing the microbial contamination level to a reference contamination level may include comparing the microbial contamination level determined based on the first sensor data to the reference contamination level.

[0298] Comparing the microbial contamination level determined based on the first sensor data with the reference contamination level may include comparing the microbial contamination level value determined based on the first sensor data with the reference contamination level value, comparing the light intensity value received by the light receiving unit (83b) with a preset light intensity value, and / or comparing the resistance value between the electrode sensors (84a) measured by the resistance sensor (84b) with a preset resistance value.

[0299] The control unit (250) can determine the operation mode of the sterilizing device (81) based on comparing the microbial contamination level determined based on the first sensor data with the reference contamination level.

[0300] The operation mode of the sterilizer (81) may include a floating bacteria sterilization mode for sterilizing floating bacteria in the water tank (80) and an attached bacteria sterilization mode for sterilizing attached bacteria attached to the water tank (80).

[0301] In light of the fact that it is easy to sterilize floating bacteria in a water tank (80), but difficult to sterilize attached bacteria attached to the water tank (80), the operating time of the sterilizer (81) in the attached bacteria sterilization mode needs to be somewhat longer than the operating time of the sterilizer (81) in the floating bacteria sterilization mode.

[0302] The clothing manager (1) can control the sterilization device (81) to a floating bacteria sterilization mode (1200) if the microbial contamination level determined based on the first sensor data is less than the standard contamination level (NO of 1100).

[0303] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can control the sterilizing device (81) based on the first function (1200) if the microbial contamination level determined based on the first sensor data is less than the reference contamination level (NO of 1100).

[0304] The first function may be configured to output the operating time of the sterilizer (81) by using sensor data (hereinafter referred to as “second sensor data”) related to the water level of the water tank (80) collected from the water level sensor (82) as input data.

[0305] For example, the first function may include a first lookup table in which the operating time of the sterilizer (81) is mapped to the water level of the water tank (80). That is, for example, the first function may be configured to determine the operating time of the sterilizer (81) based on the first sensor data.

[0306] The clothing manager (1) can control the sterilization device (81) to the attached bacteria sterilization mode (1160) if the microbial contamination level determined based on the first sensor data is higher than the standard contamination level (example of 1100).

[0307] For example, the clothing manager (1) can control the sterilizer (81) to the attached bacteria sterilization mode (1160) based on whether the microbial contamination level is higher than the standard contamination level (Yes in 1100) and the water level of the water tank (80) is lower than the predetermined level (No in 1150).

[0308] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can control the sterilizing device (81) based on the second function (1160) if the microbial contamination level is higher than the standard contamination level (example of 1100).

[0309] The second function may be configured to output the operating time of the sterilizer (81) using the second sensor data as input data. That is, for example, the second function may be configured to determine the operating time of the sterilizer (81) based on the second sensor data.

[0310] For example, the second function may include a second lookup table in which the operating time of the sterilizer (81) is mapped to the water level of the water tank (80).

[0311] The first function used in the floating bacteria sterilization mode may be different from the second function used in the attached bacteria sterilization mode.

[0312] In one embodiment, the maximum operating time of the sterilizer (81) determinable by the first function may be shorter than the minimum operating time of the sterilizer (81) determinable by the second function.

[0313] Figures 17a and 17b illustrate an example of a lookup table related to a floating bacteria sterilization mode and an attached bacteria sterilization mode according to one embodiment.

[0314] Referring to FIG. 17a, one can see an example of a first lookup table corresponding to a first function used in a floating bacteria sterilization mode and an example of a second lookup table corresponding to a second function used in an attached bacteria sterilization mode.

[0315] The memory (252) may store a first lookup table corresponding to the first function and a second lookup table corresponding to the second function.

[0316] The first function and / or the second function can output the operating time of the sterilizer (81) using the second sensor data as input data.

[0317] For example, according to the first function, if a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is lower than the first reference water level (k1) is input, a first time (t11) may be output. According to the first function, if a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is greater than the first reference water level (k1) and lower than the second reference water level (k2) is input, a second time (t21) may be output. According to the first function, if a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is greater than the second reference water level (k2) and lower than the third reference water level (k3) is input, a third time (t31) may be output. According to the first function, if a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is greater than the third reference water level (k3) and lower than the fourth reference water level (k4) is input, a fourth time (t41) may be output.

[0318] At this time, the first time (t11) may be shorter than the second time (t21), the second time (t21) may be shorter than the third time (t31), and the third time (t31) may be shorter than the fourth time (t41).

[0319] As another example, according to the second function, if a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is lower than the first reference water level (k1) may be input, a fifth time (t12) may be output. According to the second function, if a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is higher than the first reference water level (k1) and lower than the second reference water level (k2) may be input, a sixth time (t22) may be output. According to the second function, if a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is higher than the second reference water level (k2) may be input, instead of outputting the operating time of the sterilizer (81), an instruction for a cleaning notification may be output.

[0320] At this time, the fifth time (t12) may be shorter than the sixth time (t22).

[0321] In one embodiment, the fifth time period (t22) may be longer than the fourth time period (t41). That is, for example, the fourth time period (t41) may be shorter than the fifth time period (t12). For example, the fourth time period (t41) may be approximately 50 minutes, and the fifth time period (t12) may be approximately 150 minutes.

[0322] That is, for example, the maximum operating time (t41) of the sterilizing device (81) that can be determined by the first function may be shorter than the minimum operating time (t12) of the sterilizing device (81) that can be determined by the second function.

[0323] The first time (t11), the second time (t12), the third time (t13), the fourth time (t14), the fifth time (t21), and the sixth time (t22) may be defined in advance by factors such as the size and structure of the water tank (80), the performance of the sterilizing device (81), etc., but may be defined so as to satisfy the relationship described above.

[0324] The control unit (250) can operate the sterilizing device (81) during the operating time of the sterilizing device (81) determined by the first function or the second function.

[0325] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can utilize sensor data other than the second sensor data to control the sterilizing device (81) more efficiently.

[0326] For example, the clothing manager (1) can control the sterilizing device (81) based on sensor data (hereinafter referred to as “third sensor data”) related to the water quality of water stored in the water tank (80) collected by the water quality sensor (86).

[0327] Referring to FIG. 17b, one can see an example of a first lookup table corresponding to a first function used in a floating bacteria sterilization mode and an example of a second lookup table corresponding to a second function used in an attached bacteria sterilization mode.

[0328] The memory (252) may store a first lookup table corresponding to the first function and a second lookup table corresponding to the second function.

[0329] The first function and / or the second function can output the operating time of the sterilizer (81) using the second sensor data and the third sensor data as input data.

[0330] For example, the water quality of the water stored in the water tank (80) may indicate the turbidity value (NTU) of the water stored in the water tank (80), but any value that can quantify the water quality may be employed as third sensor data without limitation.

[0331] According to the first function, when a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is lower than or equal to a first reference water level (k1) is input and a turbidity value (y) of the water stored in the water tank (80) that is lower than or equal to the first reference turbidity (y1) is input, a first time (t111) can be output. According to the first function, when a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is lower than or equal to the first reference water level (k1) is input and a turbidity value (y) of the water stored in the water tank (80) that is higher than the first reference turbidity (y1) and lower than the second reference turbidity (y2) is input, a second time (t112) can be output. According to the first function, when a water level (k) of a water tank (80) that is greater than a first reference water level (k1) and less than a second reference water level (k2) is input and a turbidity value (y) of water stored in the water tank (80) that is less than or equal to the first reference turbidity (y1) is input, a third time (t211) may be output. According to the first function, when a water level (k) of a water tank (80) that is greater than a first reference water level (k1) and less than or equal to the second reference water level (k2) is input and a turbidity value (y) of water stored in the water tank (80) that is greater than a first reference turbidity (y1) and less than or equal to the second reference turbidity (y2) is input, a fourth time (t212) may be output. According to the first function, when a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is greater than the second reference water level (k2) and less than or equal to the third reference water level (k3) is input and a turbidity value (y) of the water stored in the water tank (80) that is less than or equal to the first reference turbidity (y1) is input, a fifth time (t311) may be output. According to the first function, when a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is greater than the second reference water level (k2) and less than or equal to the third reference water level (k3) is input and a turbidity value (y) of the water stored in the water tank (80) that is greater than the first reference turbidity (y1) and less than or equal to the second reference turbidity (y2) is input, a sixth time (t312) may be output.According to the first function, when a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is greater than the third reference water level (k3) and less than or equal to the fourth reference water level (k4) is input and a turbidity value (y) of the water stored in the water tank (80) that is less than or equal to the first reference turbidity (y1) is input, a seventh time (t411) may be output. According to the first function, when a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is greater than the third reference water level (k3) and less than or equal to the fourth reference water level (k4) is input and a turbidity value (y) of the water stored in the water tank (80) that is greater than the first reference turbidity (y1) and less than or equal to the second reference turbidity (y2) is input, an eighth time (t412) may be output.

[0332] At this time, the first time (t111) may be shorter than the second time (t112), the third time (t211) may be shorter than the fourth time (t212), the fifth time (t311) may be shorter than the sixth time (t312), and the seventh time (t411) may be shorter than the eighth time (t412).

[0333] Additionally, the first time (t111) may be shorter than the third time (t211), the third time (t211) may be shorter than the fifth time (t311), and the fifth time (t311) may be shorter than the seventh time (t411).

[0334] Additionally, the second time (t112) may be shorter than the fourth time (t212), the fourth time (t212) may be shorter than the sixth time (t312), and the sixth time (t312) may be shorter than the eighth time (t412).

[0335] Additionally, the second time (t112) may be similar to the third time (t211), the fourth time (t212) may be similar to the fifth time (t311), and the sixth time (t312) may be similar to the seventh time (t411).

[0336] As another example, according to the second function, when a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is lower than or equal to the first reference water level (k1) is input and a turbidity value (y) of the water stored in the water tank (80) that is lower than or equal to the first reference turbidity (y1) is input, a ninth time (t121) may be output. According to the second function, when a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is lower than or equal to the first reference water level (k1) is input and a turbidity value (y) of the water stored in the water tank (80) that is higher than the first reference turbidity (y1) and lower than the second reference turbidity (y2) is input, a tenth time (t122) may be output. According to the second function, when a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is greater than the first reference water level (k1) and less than or equal to the second reference water level (k2) is input and a turbidity value (y) of the water stored in the water tank (80) that is less than or equal to the first reference turbidity (y1) is input, an 11th time (t221) may be output. According to the second function, when a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is greater than the first reference water level (k1) and less than or equal to the second reference water level (k2) is input and a turbidity value (y) of the water stored in the water tank (80) that is greater than the first reference turbidity (y1) and less than or equal to the second reference turbidity (y2) is input, a 12th time (t222) may be output.

[0337] According to the second function, when a water level (k) of the water tank (80) that is higher than the second reference water level (k2) is input, instead of outputting the operating time of the sterilizer (81), an instruction for a cleaning notification may be output.

[0338] In one embodiment, the ninth time period (t121) may be longer than the eighth time period (t412). That is, for example, the eighth time period (t412) may be shorter than the ninth time period (t121). For example, the ninth time period (t121) may be approximately 50 minutes, and the ninth time period (t121) may be approximately 150 minutes.

[0339] That is, for example, the maximum operating time (t412) of the sterilizing device (81) that can be determined by the first function may be shorter than the minimum operating time (t121) of the sterilizing device (81) that can be determined by the second function.

[0340] The control unit (250) can operate the sterilizing device (81) during the operating time of the sterilizing device (81) determined by the first function or the second function.

[0341] According to the present disclosure, floating or attached bacteria in a water tank (80) can be efficiently removed by varying the irradiation time of the sterilizer (81) depending on the degree of microbial contamination.

[0342] The lookup tables illustrated in FIGS. 17a and 17b are merely examples, and the spirit of the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0343] For example, the control unit (250) may control the sterilizer (81) by using a function and / or a learned artificial intelligence model that outputs the operating time of the sterilizer (81) when the microbial contamination level and the water level of the water tank (80) are input. That is, for example, the control unit (250) may control the sterilizer (81) by using a function and / or a learned artificial intelligence model that outputs the operating time of the sterilizer (81) by using the first sensor data and the second sensor data as input data.

[0344] In a function and / or learned artificial intelligence model that outputs the operating time of a sterilizer (81) when the microbial contamination level and the water level of the water tank (80) are input, the weight given to the microbial contamination level may be greater than the weight given to the water level of the water tank (80).

[0345] As another example, the control unit (250) may control the sterilizer (81) by using a function and / or a learned artificial intelligence model that outputs the operating time of the sterilizer (81) when the microbial contamination level, the water level of the water tank (80), and the water quality of the water stored in the water tank (80) are input. That is, for example, the control unit (250) may control the sterilizer (81) by using a function and / or a learned artificial intelligence model that outputs the operating time of the sterilizer (81) by using the first sensor data, the second sensor data, and the third sensor data as input data.

[0346] In a function and / or learned artificial intelligence model that outputs the operating time of a sterilizer (81) when the microbial contamination level, the water level of the water tank (80), and the water quality of the water stored in the water tank (80) are input, the weight given to the microbial contamination level may be greater than the weight given to the water level of the water tank (80).

[0347] In a function and / or learned artificial intelligence model that outputs the operating time of a sterilizer (81) when the microbial contamination level, the water level of the water tank (80) and the water quality of the water stored in the water tank (80) are input, the weight given to the water level of the water tank (80) may be greater than the weight given to the water quality of the water stored in the water tank (80).

[0348] According to the present disclosure, a clothing manager (1) and a control method of the clothing manager (1) are provided, which enable optimal control of the sterilizing device (81) by modifying the operating time of the sterilizing device (81) depending on the presence or absence of microorganisms attached to the water tank (80).

[0349] Referring again to FIG. 16, the clothing manager (1) can request the user to wash the water tank (80) (1170) based on the fact that the microbial contamination level is higher than the standard contamination level (example of 1100) and the water level of the water tank (80) is higher than a predetermined water level (k2 of FIGS. 17a and 17b) (example of 1150).

[0350] The operation of requesting the user to clean the water tank (80) can be performed without the operation of the sterilizer (81). That is, for example, the clothing manager (1) may not operate the sterilizer (81) based on the fact that the microbial contamination level is higher than the standard contamination level (example of 1100) and the water level of the water tank (80) is higher than a predetermined water level (k2 of FIGS. 17a and 17b) (example of 1150).

[0351] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can control the output interface device (202) to notify that cleaning of the water tank (80) is necessary based on the microbial contamination level being higher than the reference contamination level and the water level of the water tank (80) being higher than a predetermined water level.

[0352] Controlling the output interface device (202) to notify that the water tank (80) needs to be cleaned may include outputting a visual indicator indicating that the water tank (80) needs to be cleaned. Furthermore, controlling the output interface device (202) to notify that the water tank (80) needs to be cleaned may include outputting other sensory information (e.g., auditory information, tactile information, etc.) indicating that the water tank (80) needs to be cleaned.

[0353] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can control the communication unit to notify an external device that the water tank (80) needs to be cleaned based on the microbial contamination level being higher than the reference contamination level and the water level of the water tank (80) being higher than a predetermined water level.

[0354] Controlling the communication unit to notify the external device that the water tank (80) needs to be cleaned may include transmitting information about the microbial contamination level to the external device, transmitting a signal indicating that the microbial contamination level is higher than the reference contamination level to the external device, and / or transmitting a signal indicating that the water tank (80) needs to be cleaned to the external device.

[0355] According to the present disclosure, when bacteria are formed on the water tank (80) and the water level of the water tank (80) is high, making it impossible to sterilize the bacteria, the clothing manager (1) can cause the user to wash the water tank (80).

[0356] The control method of the clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment may include additional operations in addition to the operations illustrated in FIG. 16, or may not include some of the operations illustrated in FIG. 16.

[0357] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can notify the user of the microbial contamination level based on the determined microbial contamination level.

[0358] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) may stop the operation of the sterilizer (81) based on the fact that the water tank (80) has been withdrawn from the main body (10) while the sterilizer (81) is operating according to operation 1160 or 1200. The fact that the water tank (80) has been withdrawn from the main body (10) may be detected by a mounting detection sensor.

[0359] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a user can be prevented from being exposed to ultraviolet rays.

[0360] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) may stop the operation of the sterilizer (81) based on the start of the garment management cycle while operating the sterilizer (81) according to operation 1160 or 1200.

[0361] The initiation of a garment management operation may include the actual initiation of a garment management operation or the receipt of user input to initiate a garment management operation.

[0362] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent power from being wasted by unnecessarily operating the sterilizing device (81).

[0363] FIG. 18 illustrates an example of an interface provided by a garment manager when cleaning of a water tank is required according to one embodiment.

[0364] Referring to FIG. 18, the control unit (250) can control the output interface device (202) to output a visual indicator (d1, d2) for requesting cleaning of the water tank (80) based on the microbial contamination level being higher than the standard contamination level and the water level of the water tank (80) being higher than a predetermined water level.

[0365] The visual indicator (d1, d2) for requesting cleaning of the water tank (80) may include an icon (d1) for requesting cleaning of the water tank (80) and / or text (d2) for requesting cleaning of the water tank (80). However, the type of the visual indicator (d1, d2) for requesting cleaning of the water tank (80) is not limited thereto, and the visual indicator (d1, d2) for requesting cleaning of the water tank (80) may be output by the output interface device (202) in various ways (e.g., animation, text, shape, etc.).

[0366] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can control the output interface device (202) to output information about the microbial contamination level based on the determined microbial contamination level.

[0367] For example, the control unit (250) can control the output interface device (202) to output a visual indicator (d3) indicating information about the microbial contamination level.

[0368] The visual indicator (d3) indicating information on the microbial contamination level may include phrases, text, shapes, animations, and / or icons to indicate the degree of microbial contamination. The visual indicator (d3) indicating information on the microbial contamination level may numerically indicate the degree of microbial contamination level, or may express the degree of microbial contamination level in comparative language (e.g., low, medium, high, etc.).

[0369] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of an interface by a garment manager when a user input is received to start a garment management process when a water tank needs to be washed according to one embodiment.

[0370] A user who has been requested to clean the water tank (80) from the clothing manager (1) can clean the water tank (80), refill water, and then re-mount the water tank (80) on the main body (10).

[0371] However, the user may intentionally or unintentionally ignore the washing request of the water tank (80) and proceed with the clothing management administration.

[0372] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) can confirm that the washing of the water tank (80) has been performed in response to a predetermined condition being satisfied after operation 1170.

[0373] For example, the control unit (250) may determine that the cleaning of the water tank (80) is complete based on receiving a user input indicating that the cleaning of the water tank (80) is complete through the input interface device (201) after operation 1170.

[0374] As another example, if the control unit (250) detects the withdrawal and installation of the water tank (80) after operation 1170, the control unit (250) may re-evaluate the microbial contamination level based on the first sensor data. The control unit (250) may determine that the cleaning of the water tank (80) is completed based on the re-evaluated microbial contamination level being lower than the reference contamination level. Conversely, the control unit (250) may determine that the cleaning of the water tank (80) is not performed based on the re-evaluated microbial contamination level being higher than the reference contamination level.

[0375] As another example, after operation 1170, if a user input for initiating a clothing management process is received, the control unit (250) may re-evaluate the microbial contamination level based on the first sensor data. The control unit (250) may determine that the cleaning of the water tank (80) is completed based on the re-evaluated microbial contamination level being lower than the reference contamination level. Conversely, the control unit (250) may determine that the cleaning of the water tank (80) is not performed based on the re-evaluated microbial contamination level being higher than the reference contamination level.

[0376] In one embodiment, when the garment manager (1) receives a user input to start the garment management process through the input interface device (201) or the communication unit (300) after operation 1170, if it is determined that the washing of the water tank (80) has not been performed, it may provide feedback to ask for the user's intention.

[0377] In one embodiment, when the control unit (250) receives a user input for starting a clothing management process through the input interface device (201) or the communication unit (300), if it is determined that the washing of the water tank (80) has not been performed, the control unit (250) may control the output interface device (202) to output a visual indicator (d4) for asking whether the user wishes to proceed with the clothing management process.

[0378] The control unit (250) can control the output interface device (202) to output a visual indicator (d4) for asking for the intention to proceed with the clothing management administration based on the selection of the operation / pause button after the course is selected through the input interface device (201).

[0379] The control unit (250) can control the output interface device (202) to output user interface elements (p1, p2, p3) for confirming the intent to proceed with the clothing management administration.

[0380] The user interface elements (p1, p2, p3) for confirming the intent to proceed with the clothing management administration may include a first element (p1) for confirming a positive intent, a second element (p2) for confirming a negative intent, and / or a third element (p3) for proceeding only with an administration in which water stored in a water tank (80) is not utilized.

[0381] The control unit (250) can control the clothing manager (1) to perform clothing management based on the selection of the first element (p1).

[0382] The control unit (250) can control the output interface device (202) to output a guidance screen guiding the initial screen or water tank (80) washing method without performing the clothing management administration based on the selection of the second element (p2).

[0383] The control unit (250) can control the garment manager (1) to perform a garment management process excluding the steam process based on the selection of the third element (p3). That is, for example, the control unit (250) can not operate the steam generator (70) during the garment management process based on the selection of the third element (p3).

[0384] According to the present disclosure, a clothing manager (1) and a control method of the clothing manager (1) are provided that can perform subsequent operations reflecting the user's intention when the water in the water tank (80) is contaminated.

[0385] According to the present disclosure, a clothing manager (1) and a control method of the clothing manager (1) are provided, which can prevent clothing from being contaminated by performing a clothing management process in which a steam process is omitted when water in a water tank (80) is contaminated.

[0386] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments can be applied to other home appliances (or electronic devices) other than the clothing manager (1). That is, for example, the disclosed embodiments can be applied to various devices that can include a steam generator (70).

[0387] According to various embodiments, various devices such as a washing machine, a dryer, a shoe care machine, a cooking device (e.g., a steam oven), a dishwasher, a vacuum cleaner, a steam iron, an air conditioner, and / or a humidifier may include a steam generator (70), a sterilizer (81), and a control unit (250) for controlling the steam generator (70) and the sterilizer (81) according to one embodiment. According to various embodiments, various devices such as a washing machine, a dryer, a shoe care machine, a cooking device (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.

[0388] Various devices, such as washing machines, dryers, shoe care machines, cooking appliances (e.g., steam ovens), dishwashers, vacuum cleaners, steam irons, air conditioners, steam sterilizers, steam hair styling devices, and / or humidifiers, can control the sterilizing device (81) and the user interface device according to the embodiments described above.

[0389] A washing machine according to one embodiment includes a steam generating device (70), a sterilizing device (81), and a control unit (250), and can improve the washing effect by using steam when washing clothes.

[0390] A dryer according to one embodiment includes a steam generating device (70), a sterilizing device (81), and a control unit (250), and can sterilize the clothes to be dried using steam when drying the clothes.

[0391] A shoe care device according to one embodiment includes a steam generating device (70), a sterilizing device (81), and a control unit (250), and can sterilize shoes using steam when drying shoes.

[0392] A steam oven according to one embodiment includes a steam generating device (70), a sterilizing device (81), and a control unit (250), and can maintain the moisture of food by using steam when cooking food.

[0393] A dishwasher according to one embodiment includes a steam generator (70), a sterilizing device (81), and a control unit (250), and can efficiently wash residues remaining on dishes using steam.

[0394] A cleaner according to one embodiment includes a steam generating device (70), a sterilizing device (81), and a control unit (250), and can efficiently clean an area to be cleaned using steam.

[0395] A steam iron according to one embodiment includes a steam generating device (70), a sterilizing device (81), and a control unit (250), and can improve the ironing performance of clothes by using steam.

[0396] An air conditioner according to one embodiment includes a steam generator (70), a sterilizer (81), and a control unit (250), and can use steam to control moisture and improve air quality.

[0397] A steam sterilizer according to one embodiment includes a steam generating device (70), a sterilizing device (81), and a control unit (250), and can sterilize a sterilizing target by spraying steam onto the sterilizing target.

[0398] A steam hair styling device according to one embodiment includes a steam generating device (70), a sterilizing device (81), and a control unit (250), and can spray steam onto a user's head to help style the user's hair.

[0399] A humidifier according to one embodiment includes a steam generator (70), a sterilizer (81), and a control unit (250), and can control moisture and improve air quality by using steam.

[0400] A clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a steam generator (70); a water tank (80) configured to supply water to the steam generator (70) and to recover water discharged from the steam generator (70); a microorganism detection sensor (85) configured to collect first sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank (80); a water level sensor (82) configured to collect second sensor data related to the water level of the water tank (80); a sterilizing device (81) configured to sterilize water stored in the water tank (80); And a control unit (250) for controlling the sterilizing device (81) based on a first function related to the second sensor data when the microbial contamination level determined based on the first sensor data is less than a reference contamination level, and for controlling the sterilizing device (81) based on a second function related to the second sensor data when the microbial contamination level is greater than or equal to the reference contamination level; wherein the first function and the second function are configured to determine an operation time of the sterilizing device (81) based on the second sensor data, and the maximum operation time of the sterilizing device (81) that can be determined by the first function can be shorter than the minimum operation time of the sterilizing device (81) that can be determined by the second function.

[0401] In one embodiment, the clothing manager (1) further includes a water quality sensor (86) configured to collect third sensor data related to the water quality of water stored in the water tank (80), and the first function and the second function may be configured to determine the operating time of the sterilizing device (81) based on the second sensor data and the third sensor data.

[0402] In one embodiment, the clothing manager (1) further includes an output interface device (202); and the control unit (250) can control the output interface device (202) to notify that washing of the water tank (80) is necessary based on the fact that the microbial contamination level is higher than the reference contamination level and the water level of the water tank (80) exceeds a predetermined level.

[0403] In one embodiment, the clothing manager (1) further includes a communication unit (300) that communicates with an external device, and the control unit (250) can control the communication unit (300) to notify the external device that the water tank (80) needs to be cleaned based on the fact that the microbial contamination level is higher than the reference contamination level and the water level of the water tank (80) exceeds a predetermined level.

[0404] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) may be configured not to operate the sterilizing device (81) based on the microbial contamination level being higher than the reference contamination level and the water level of the water tank (80) exceeding a predetermined level.

[0405] In one embodiment, the garment manager (1) may further include a water filter (109) disposed upstream of the water tank (80); a water supply pump (110) configured to pump water from the water tank (80) to the steam generator (70); and a circulation pump (120) configured to pump water discharged from the steam generator (70) to the water filter (109).

[0406] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can control the output interface device (202) to output information on the microbial contamination level.

[0407] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can perform an operation of controlling the clothing manager (1) to perform a clothing management process and controlling the sterilizing device (81) based on the termination of the clothing management process.

[0408] In one embodiment, the water tank (80) includes a bottom surface (80b) having a transparent area (80a), and the microbial detection sensor (85) may include a light emitting portion (83a) that irradiates light toward the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80) and a light receiving portion (83b) that is arranged below the transparent area (80a).

[0409] In one embodiment, the sterilizing device (81) may include an ultraviolet irradiation unit that irradiates ultraviolet rays; the water tank (80) may include a bottom surface (80b) having a transparent area (80a); and the microbial detection sensor (85) may include a light receiving unit (83b) disposed on the lower side of the transparent area (80a).

[0410] In one embodiment, the microbial detection sensor (85) may include a pair of electrode sensors (84a) provided on the bottom surface (80b) of the water tank (80).

[0411] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can operate the sterilizing device (81) during the operating time of the sterilizing device (81) determined by the first function or the second function.

[0412] In one embodiment, the water tank (80) is separable from the main body of the clothing manager (1), and the control unit (250) can stop the operation of the sterilizing device (81) based on the water tank (80) being withdrawn from the main body during the operation of the sterilizing device (81).

[0413] In one embodiment, the control unit (250) can stop the operation of the sterilizing device (81) based on the start of the clothing management process of the clothing manager (1) during the operation of the sterilizing device (81).

[0414] A method for controlling a clothing manager (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: receiving first sensor data from a microorganism detection sensor (85) configured to collect first sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank (80); receiving second sensor data from a water level sensor (82) configured to collect second sensor data related to the water level of the water tank (80); controlling the sterilizing device (81) based on a first function related to the second sensor data when the microbial contamination level determined based on the first sensor data is less than a reference contamination level; If the microbial contamination level is higher than the reference contamination level, controlling the sterilizing device (81) based on a second function related to the second sensor data; wherein the first function and the second function are configured to determine an operating time of the sterilizing device (81) based on the second sensor data, and a maximum operating time of the sterilizing device (81) that can be determined by the first function can be shorter than a minimum operating time of the sterilizing device (81) that can be determined by the second function.

[0415] In one embodiment, the control method of the clothing manager (1) further includes receiving third sensor data from a water quality sensor (86) configured to collect third sensor data related to the water quality of water stored in the water tank (80); and the first function and the second function can be configured to determine the operation time of the sterilizing device (81) based on the second sensor data and the third sensor data.

[0416] In one embodiment, the control method of the clothing manager (1) may further include notifying that washing of the water tank (80) is necessary based on the fact that the microbial contamination level is higher than the reference contamination level and the water level of the water tank (80) determined based on the second sensor data exceeds a predetermined level.

[0417] In one embodiment, the control method of the clothing manager (1) may further include not operating the sterilizing device (81) based on the microbial contamination level being higher than the reference contamination level and the water level of the water tank (80) determined based on the second sensor data exceeding a predetermined level.

[0418] In one embodiment, the control method of the clothing manager (1) may further include outputting information on the microbial contamination level.

[0419] In one embodiment, the control method of the clothing manager (1) further includes controlling the clothing manager (1) to perform a clothing management process; and controlling the sterilizing device (81) can be performed based on the termination of the clothing management process.

[0420] 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.

[0421] 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.

[0422] 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.

[0423] 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.

[0424] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. Steam generating device; A water tank configured to supply water to the steam generator and to recover water discharged from the steam generator; A microorganism detection sensor configured to collect first sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank; A water level sensor configured to collect second sensor data related to the water level of the water tank; A sterilizing device configured to sterilize water stored in the water tank; and A control unit for controlling the sterilizer based on a first function related to the second sensor data when the microbial contamination level determined based on the first sensor data is less than the reference contamination level, and for controlling the sterilizer based on a second function related to the second sensor data when the microbial contamination level is greater than or equal to the reference contamination level; A clothing manager wherein the first function and the second function are configured to determine the operating time of the sterilizing device based on the second sensor data, and the maximum operating time of the sterilizing device that can be determined by the first function is shorter than the minimum operating time of the sterilizing device that can be determined by the second function.

2. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a water quality sensor configured to collect third sensor data related to the water quality of water stored in the water tank; A clothing manager wherein the first function and the second function are configured to determine the operating time of the sterilizing device based on the second sensor data and the third sensor data.

3. In paragraph 1, further comprising an output interface device; The above control unit, A clothing manager that controls the output interface device to notify that cleaning of the water tank is necessary based on the fact that the microbial contamination level is higher than the standard contamination level and the water level of the water tank exceeds a predetermined level.

4. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a communication unit for communicating with an external device; The above control unit, A clothing manager that controls the communication unit to notify the external device that the water tank needs to be cleaned based on the fact that the microbial contamination level is higher than the standard contamination level and the water level of the water tank exceeds a predetermined level.

5. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A clothing manager configured to not operate the sterilizing device based on the above microbial contamination level being higher than the standard contamination level and the water level of the water tank exceeding a predetermined level.

6. In paragraph 1, A water filter placed upstream of the above water tank; a feed pump configured to pump water from the water tank to the steam generator; and A garment care device further comprising a circulation pump configured to pump water discharged from the steam generator to the water purification filter.

7. In paragraph 1, further comprising an output interface device; The above control unit, A garment manager controlling the output interface device to output information on the above microbial contamination level.

8. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A clothing manager that controls the clothing manager to perform clothing management administration and performs an operation of controlling the sterilizing device based on the termination of the clothing management administration.

9. In paragraph 1, The above water tank, Including a bottom surface having a transparent area, The above microbial detection sensor, A clothing care device including a light emitting unit that irradiates light toward the bottom surface of the water tank and a light receiving unit positioned below the transparent area.

10. In paragraph 1, The above sterilizing device, Including an ultraviolet irradiation unit that irradiates ultraviolet rays; The above water tank, Including a bottom surface having a transparent area, The above microbial detection sensor, A garment manager including a light receiving unit positioned on the lower side of the transparent area.

11. In paragraph 1, The above microbial detection sensor, A clothing manager comprising a pair of electrode sensors provided on the bottom surface of the water tank.

12. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A clothing manager that operates the sterilizing device during the operating time of the sterilizing device determined by the first function or the second function.

13. In paragraph 1, The above water tank is detachable from the main body of the clothing manager, The above control unit, A clothing manager that stops the operation of the sterilizing device based on the water tank being withdrawn from the main body during the operation of the sterilizing device.

14. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A clothing manager that stops the operation of the sterilizing device based on the start of the clothing management process of the clothing manager during the operation of the sterilizing device.

15. A method for controlling a clothing manager including a steam generator, a water tank configured to supply water to the steam generator and recover water discharged from the steam generator, and a sterilizing device configured to sterilize water stored in the water tank, Receiving first sensor data from a microbial detection sensor configured to collect first sensor data related to the amount of microorganisms attached to the water tank; Receiving second sensor data from a water level sensor configured to collect second sensor data related to the water level of the water tank; If the microbial contamination level determined based on the first sensor data is less than the reference contamination level, the sterilizing device is controlled based on the first function related to the second sensor data; If the microbial contamination level is higher than the standard contamination level, controlling the sterilizing device based on a second function related to the second sensor data; A method for controlling a clothing manager, wherein the first function and the second function are configured to determine the operating time of the sterilizing device based on the second sensor data, and the maximum operating time of the sterilizing device that can be determined by the first function is shorter than the minimum operating time of the sterilizing device that can be determined by the second function.

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