Clothing treatment apparatus

Abstract

A clothing treatment apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, may comprise: a main body including a front plate having an opening through which laundry is introduced and a front lower bracket configured to support the front plate; a tub disposed inside the main body to store water; a detergent box housing disposed in front of the front lower bracket; a detergent box accommodated in the detergent box housing; and a pump disposed to supply detergent stored in the detergent box to the tub.

Description

Garment processing device

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a garment treatment device.

[0002] In general, a clothing treatment device may include a washing machine that rotates clothes and detergent placed inside a rotating drum together using the driving force of a motor to wash clothes through friction between them, and a dryer that rotates a rotating drum containing an object to be dried to dry the object inside the drum.

[0003] The garment handling device may include a detergent supply device provided within the cabinet.

[0004] A detergent supply device is a device that enables detergent to be supplied into the tub. The detergent supply device may include a detergent container and a detergent pump that is docked to the detergent container and configured to supply detergent within the detergent container to the tub.

[0005] The detergent supply unit of the garment treatment device may be located at the bottom of the main body. If the user pulls out the detergent container to inject detergent into the detergent supply unit, a void may form under the front panel, which may reduce the structural rigidity of the main body.

[0006] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0007] A garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body including a front plate having an opening formed therein for inserting laundry and a front lower bracket configured to support the front plate, a tub disposed inside the main body for storing water, a detergent box housing disposed in front of the front lower bracket, a detergent box accommodated in the detergent box housing, and a pump disposed to supply detergent stored in the detergent box to the tub.

[0008] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from implementing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a partially exploded perspective view showing a detergent supply device of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a state in which a side plate, a back plate, and a main body are combined in a garment processing device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a state in which the front lower bracket of FIG. 4 is coupled according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which the front plate in FIG. 5 is combined according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a state in which the detergent housing of FIG. 6 is combined according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a state in which the detergent box is combined in FIG. 7 according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of the front lower bracket in a garment processing device according to one embodiment, viewed from the front.

[0018] Fig. 10 is a rear perspective view of a front panel in a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a garment handling device according to one embodiment, wherein the front lower bracket is coupled to a side plate.

[0020] FIGS. 12 and 13 are side views illustrating a process of attaching a front plate to a front lower bracket during an assembly process of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 14 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a front plate is attached to a front lower bracket in a garment processing device according to one embodiment.

[0022] The following description refers to the attached drawings, and specific examples of implementations are illustrated within the drawings. Furthermore, other examples may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the various examples.

[0023] The various embodiments used to illustrate the principles of the present disclosure, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 14 below and in this patent document, are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the principles of the present disclosure can be implemented in any appropriately arranged system or device.

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

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

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

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

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

[0029] 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).

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] Washing machines according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying processes. A washing machine is an example of a clothing treatment device, and the term "clothing treatment device" encompasses devices that wash clothing (laundry items, drying items), devices that dry clothing, and devices that can perform both washing and drying of clothing.

[0035] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include top-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet for loading or removing laundry is provided facing upward, or front-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet is provided facing forward. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines of other loading methods other than top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines.

[0036] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry. The front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine with a dryer that can dry the laundry contained inside the drum. The washing machine with a dryer may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensing device for removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum. For example, the washing machine with a dryer may include a heat pump device. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine with a washing method other than the washing method described above.

[0037] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include a housing that accommodates various components therein. The housing may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry inlet formed on one side.

[0038] A washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the laundry compartment. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing by a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be transparent or translucent to allow the interior of the housing to be viewed.

[0039] A washing machine may include a tub provided within a housing to store water. The tub may be provided in a generally cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be positioned within the housing such that the tub opening corresponds to a laundry inlet.

[0040] The tub may be connected to the housing by a damper. The damper can absorb vibrations generated when the drum rotates, thereby reducing the vibrations transmitted to the housing.

[0041] A washing machine may include a drum configured to accommodate laundry.

[0042] The drum may be positioned within the tub such that the drum opening provided on one side corresponds to the laundry inlet and the tub opening. Laundry may be sequentially passed through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening to be accommodated within the drum or taken out from the drum.

[0043] The drum rotates within the tub and can perform each of the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration operations. The cylindrical wall of the drum is formed with a number of perforations, allowing water stored in the tub to flow into or out of the drum.

[0044] A washing machine may include a drive device configured to rotate a drum. The drive device may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may be connected to the drum by penetrating the tub.

[0045] The driving device can rotate the drum forward or backward to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, or drying cycle.

[0046] A washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to a tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve provided on the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub via the detergent supply device. Water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

[0047] The water supply valve can open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valve can allow or block the supply of water to the tub from an external water source. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0048] A washing machine may include a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to a tub. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device that requires a user to add detergent for each wash cycle, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically supplies a predetermined amount of detergent during a wash cycle. The detergent supply device may include a detergent compartment for storing detergent. The detergent supply device may be configured to supply detergent into the tub during a water supply process. Water supplied through a water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device. The water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub. Detergent is used as a comprehensive term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent compartment may be divided into a pre-wash detergent storage area, a main wash detergent storage area, a fabric softener storage area, and a bleach storage area.

[0049] A washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water contained in a tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the tub to the outside of the housing, a drain valve provided in the drain pipe to open and close the drain pipe, and a pump provided on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water in the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0050] The washing machine may include a control panel positioned on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface for a user to interact with the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0051] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0052] At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0053] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user.

[0054] For example, at least one output interface may transmit information related to the washing cycle and operating time of the washing machine, as well as washing / rinsing / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine may be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0055] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with external devices via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0056] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0057] The communication module can transmit data to or receive data from external devices (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance). For example, the communication module can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various data.

[0058] To this end, the communication module may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Any of these communication modules may communicate with the external device via a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] In one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices such as a server, a user device, and other home appliances through a peripheral access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine or the user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine or the user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The control unit can control various components of the washing machine, such as a drive motor and a water inlet valve. The control unit can control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one cycle, including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, according to a user input. For example, the control unit can control the drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of the drum, or control the water inlet valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0062] The control unit may include hardware such as a CPU or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the washing machine, at least one memory storing program-type data, and at least one processor performing the aforementioned operation using data stored in the at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0063] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0064] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0065] Any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other drawings of this specification. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described with respect to FIGS. 3 through 14 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0066] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a clothing treatment device (1) may include a main body (10) forming an exterior, a tub (30) provided inside the main body (10), a drum (40) provided inside the tub (30) to accommodate laundry and to be rotatable, and a driving device (15) provided to rotate the drum (40). The clothing treatment device (1) may refer to, for example, a washing machine or a dryer.

[0067] The main body (10) may be provided in a roughly hexahedral shape. The main body (10) may be provided in a box shape with an open front. The main body (10) may include a rear plate (11a) and two side plates (11b, 11c) that are bent and extended forward from the rear plate (11a). The main body (10) may include a top cover (11e) forming an upper surface and a base (11d) forming a bottom surface. The main body (10) may include a front plate (12) provided at the open front.

[0068] The front panel (12) may include a first panel (12a) and a second panel (12b) disposed above the first panel (12a). The first panel (12a) may be disposed in front of the drum (40). The first panel (12a) may be disposed below the second panel (12b). An opening (12c) may be formed in the first panel (12a) to allow laundry to be fed into the interior of the drum (40). The opening (12c) of the first panel (12a) may be formed to allow laundry to be fed into or taken out from the front of the main body (10). The opening (12c) of the first panel (12a) may be opened and closed by a door (20). The first panel (12a) and the second panel (12b) may be formed integrally, for example.

[0069] The door (20) may include a door frame (21) and a door glass (22). The door glass (22) may be made of a transparent tempered glass material so that the inside of the main body (10) can be seen through.

[0070] The second panel (12b) may be provided on the upper front side of the main body (10). The second panel (12b) may be positioned on the upper side of the first panel (12a). The second panel (12b) is provided so that it can be combined with the top cover (11e).

[0071] The second panel (12b) may be provided with a control panel (13) including an input unit (13a) for receiving operation commands from a user and a display unit (13b) for displaying operation information of the garment treatment device (1). The input unit (13a) may be provided in the form of a rotatable jog dial. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may include input units and display units of various shapes.

[0072] User commands can be input through the control panel (13). When the user selects various washing-related modes through the input unit (13a), a corresponding control signal is transmitted to the control unit (50).

[0073] The control unit (50) may include a memory (not shown) that stores a program and data for controlling the operation of the clothing treatment device (1), and a processor (not shown) that generates a control signal for controlling the operation of the clothing treatment device (1) according to the program and data stored in the memory.

[0074] The driving device (15) is provided to rotate the drum (40) forward and backward at the rear of the tub (30) to perform washing, rinsing, dehydration, and drying operations.

[0075] A driving device (15) may be provided at the rear of the drum (40). The driving device (15) may be configured to transmit driving force generated from a driving motor (15a) to a driving shaft (15b) to rotate the drum (40). The driving motor (15a) may be configured with a fixed stator and a rotor that rotates by electromagnetic interaction with the stator, and may convert electrical power into mechanical rotational power. However, the components of the motor are not limited to the above-described examples.

[0076] The drum (40) can perform washing by rotating inside the tub (30) and lifting and dropping laundry. A plurality of lifters (41) can be provided inside the drum (40).

[0077] The tub (30) may be formed in a roughly cylindrical shape. The tub (30) may be provided to store a mixture of washing water and detergent. The tub (30) may be fixed inside the main body (10). The opening (12c) of the front plate (12) and the tub (30) may be connected by a diaphragm (18). The diaphragm (18) may be provided to seal the space between the front plate (12) and the tub (30).

[0078] A water supply device (14) may be provided on the upper side of the tub (30). The water supply device (14) may include a water supply valve (14a) for controlling water supply and a water supply pipe (14b) connected to the water supply valve (14a). The water supply device (14) may be provided to supply water to the tub (30).

[0079] A drainage device (16) including a drain pipe (16a), a drain valve (not shown), a drain pump (16b), etc. for draining water inside the tub (30) may be installed at the bottom of the tub (30).

[0080] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the disclosure may include a detergent supply device (100). The detergent supply device (100) may be arranged to supply detergent into a tub.

[0081] A plurality of detergent supply devices (100) may be provided. The detergent supply device (100) may include a first detergent supply device (100a) and a second detergent supply device (100b).

[0082] The first detergent supply device (100a) may be arranged on the upper side of the tub (30). The first detergent supply device (100a) may be arranged on the inner upper part of the main body (10). The first detergent supply device (100a) may be arranged on the front plate (12). The first detergent supply device (100a) may be arranged on the second panel (12b) of the front plate (12). The first detergent supply device (100a) is provided so that it can be withdrawn or introduced from the main body (10) at the upper part of the front plate (12). The first detergent supply device (100a) may be provided so as to be able to slide. The first detergent supply device (100a) may allow detergent to flow into the tub (30). The first detergent supply device (100a) may be connected to a water supply device (14). The first detergent supply device (100a) can cause detergent to flow into the tub (30) together with the washing water flowing in through the water supply device (14). The first detergent supply device (100a) can be installed on the upper portion of the tub (30) and can be arranged to supply detergent into the interior of the tub (30) during the water supply process. For example, the first detergent supply device (100a) can cause solid detergent and / or fabric softener to flow into the tub (30). However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above-described examples.

[0083] Water flowing into the inside of the clothing treatment device (1) through a water supply device (14) connected to an external water source (not shown) can be supplied to the tub (30) through the first detergent supply device (100a). The first detergent supply device (100a) can be connected to the tub (30) through a water supply pipe (17). Washing water supplied through the water supply pipe (17) of the water supply device (14) is mixed with detergent through the first detergent supply device (100a), and the mixed water in which the washing water and detergent are mixed can be supplied to the inside of the tub (30).

[0084] The second detergent supply device (100b) may be arranged at the bottom of the main body (10). The second detergent supply device (100b) may be arranged below the tub (30). For example, the second detergent supply device (100b) may be arranged at the lower side inside the main body (10). The second detergent supply device (100b) may be arranged to be drawn out or drawn in from the main body (10) at the bottom of the front plate (12). The second detergent supply device (100b) may be arranged to allow detergent to flow into the inside of the tub (30). The second detergent supply device (100b) may allow liquid detergent and / or fabric softener, etc. to flow into the inside of the tub (30). However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above-described example. A specific description of the second detergent supply device (100b) will be described later.

[0085] FIG. 3 is a partially exploded perspective view showing a detergent supply device of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0086] Any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIG. 3 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other drawings of this specification. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described with respect to FIGS. 1 to 2 and FIGS. 4 to 14 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIG. 3.

[0087] As illustrated in Fig. 3, the second detergent supply device (100b, hereinafter referred to as “detergent supply device”) may be placed at the front lower portion of the main body (10). The detergent supply device (100) may be installed at the inner front lower portion of the main body (10).

[0088] The detergent supply device (100) may include a detergent box (110) and a detergent box housing (120). The detergent box (110) may be detachably provided on the detergent box housing (120). The detergent box (110) may be provided to be slidably moved on the detergent box housing (120).

[0089] The detergent compartment (110) may be configured to accommodate detergent and / or softener therein. The detergent compartment (110) may include a first detergent compartment (111) configured to accommodate detergent therein. The detergent compartment (110) may include a second detergent compartment (112) configured to accommodate rinse and / or softener therein.

[0090] The detergent box (110) may be arranged to be accommodated in a detergent box (101). The first detergent box (111) and the second detergent box (112) may be accommodated in a detergent box (101) having an open top. The detergent box (101) may be arranged in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The detergent box (101) may be arranged to accommodate the first detergent box (111) and the second detergent box (112) inside. The first detergent box (111) and the second detergent box (112) may be accommodated in the detergent box (101) so as to be detachable from each other. The first detergent box (111) and the second detergent box (112) are accommodated side by side in the detergent box (101) and are arranged so as to be detachable from the main body (10) together. The first detergent box (111) and the second detergent box (112) are accommodated in a detergent box (101) and are provided so as to be slidably moved from the main body (10). In one embodiment of the disclosure, the detergent boxes are illustrated as being accommodated in their respective detergent boxes, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the detergent boxes and the detergent box may be provided as one unit.

[0091] The detergent box housing (120) may be arranged on the lower side of the front plate (12) of the main body (10). The detergent box housing (120) may be provided in a hexahedral shape with an open front. The detergent box housing (120) may be provided in a shape corresponding to the detergent box (110) so as to accommodate the detergent box (110). The detergent box housing (120) may be provided in a shape corresponding to the detergent box (101) so as to allow the detergent box (101) containing the detergent box (110) to be mounted thereon. The detergent box housing (120) may include a detergent box receiving portion (121) provided so as to accommodate the detergent box (101) therein.

[0092] The detergent box housing (120) can be mounted so that the detergent box (101) can be slidably moved through the open front. The detergent box housing (120) can be arranged so that the detergent box (101) can be slidably connected to the main body (10) in the front-back direction through the open front.

[0093] The detergent box housing (120) and the detergent box (101) can be slidably moved through a guide rib (130). The guide rib (130) may include a first guide rib (131) provided in the detergent box (101) and a second guide rib (132) provided in the detergent box housing (120). The first guide rib (131) and the second guide rib (132) may be provided at corresponding positions.

[0094] The first guide rib (131) may be provided in the front-back direction on the bottom surface (101d) of the detergent box (101). The second guide rib (132) may be provided in the front-back direction on the inner bottom surface of the detergent box housing (120). The first guide rib (131) may be provided to move the detergent box (101) in the front-back direction by being coupled to the second guide rib (132).

[0095] The detergent box (101) may be formed in a roughly rectangular shape. The detergent box (101) is provided with an open top so that a detergent box (110) can be inserted and installed inside. The first guide rib (131) may be arranged on the bottom surface (101d) of the detergent box.

[0096] The detergent box housing (120) is provided with an open front so that a detergent box (110) can be accommodated therein. The detergent box housing (120) may include a detergent box receiving portion (121) provided to correspond to a detergent box (101). The detergent box receiving portion (121) may be formed with a corresponding size and shape so that the detergent box (101) can be accommodated therein. The detergent box receiving portion (121) may include an upper surface (120d), a lower surface (120b), a rear surface (120a), and two side surfaces (120c) forming the detergent box housing (120). The detergent box receiving portion (121) may be formed inside by the upper surface (120d), the lower surface (120b), the rear surface (120a), and two side surfaces (120c) of the detergent box housing (120). The second guide rib (132) can be placed on the lower surface (120b).

[0097] The detergent housing (120) can be installed at the front lower portion of the clothes treatment device (1). The detergent housing (120) can be installed at the lower side of the front panel (12). The detergent housing (120) can be installed at the lower side of the first panel (12a). The detergent housing (120) can be mounted on the detergent mounting hole (19) arranged at the lower side of the first panel (12a). The detergent housing (120) can be inserted into the detergent mounting hole (19) and provided inside the main body (10).

[0098] In addition, in one embodiment of the disclosure, the detergent container housing is illustrated as having a rectangular parallelepiped shape with an open front, but is not limited thereto. For example, the detergent container housing may be configured to include only two sides and a bottom surface.

[0099] The detergent supply device (100) may further include a pump (140) connected to a circulation device (not shown) to supply detergent to the tub (30). Detergent and softener inside the detergent box (110) may be pumped by the pump (140) arranged outside the detergent box (110) and supplied into the drum (40). The pump (140) may be arranged to suck detergent from the detergent box (110) by docking with the detergent box (110). The pump (140) may be provided inside the main body (10) of the clothes treatment device (1). The pump (140) may be provided in the detergent box housing (120) so that the detergent box (110) may be docked. The pump (140) may be arranged on the rear surface (120a) of the detergent box housing (120). The pump (140) is connected to the detergent box (110) housed in the detergent box housing (120) and can suck detergent and softener from the detergent box (110).

[0100] A pump connection corresponding to a pump (140) may be provided in the detergent box (101) in which the detergent box (110) is accommodated.

[0101] The detergent box (110) can be installed by sliding from the detergent box housing (120). The detergent box (110) can be provided to be slidable to the detergent box housing (120) while being accommodated in the detergent box (101).

[0102] The detergent box (110) can be detachably connected to the detergent box housing (120). The detergent box (110) and the detergent box housing (120) can be detachably connected by a latch device (200). The latch device (200) can be provided to lock and / or unlock between the detergent box (110) and the detergent box housing (120).

[0103] A latch device (200) may be provided to open a detergent drawer (110). The latch device (200) may be controlled by a control unit (50). The latch device (200) may be controlled to open the detergent drawer (110) when the detergent in the detergent drawer (110) is insufficient.

[0104] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a state in which a side plate, a back plate, and a main body are combined in a garment processing device according to one embodiment.

[0105] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a state in which the front lower bracket of FIG. 4 is coupled according to one embodiment.

[0106] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which the front plate in FIG. 5 is combined according to one embodiment.

[0107] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a state in which the detergent housing of FIG. 6 is combined according to one embodiment.

[0108] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a state in which the detergent box is combined in FIG. 7 according to one embodiment.

[0109] Any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIGS. 4 through 8 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other drawings of this specification. Likewise, any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 3 and FIGS. 9 through 14 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIGS. 4 through 8.

[0110] The configurations illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 8 may be substantially identical or similar to the configurations of the garment treatment device (1) described in FIGS. 1 to 3. In FIGS. 4 to 8, for convenience of explanation, the assembly process of the main body (e.g., the main body (10) of FIG. 1) among the configurations of the garment treatment device (1) is illustrated, but the assembly process of the garment treatment device (1) is not limited to the order illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 8. For example, during the process of assembling the main body (10), configurations such as a tub (30) and a drainage pump (16b) may be placed inside the main body (10).

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 8, the garment treatment device (1) may include a main body (10). The main body (10) may include a rear plate (11a), two side plates (11b, 11c), a front plate (12), and a base (11d).

[0112] Referring to FIG. 4, the base (11d) may include a first connecting portion (111d) extending upward. The first connecting portion (111d) may be connected to at least one of the two side plates (11b, 11c) or the front lower bracket (80). The first connecting portion (111d) may extend upward from a corner portion of the base (11d). The first connecting portion (111d) may have, for example, a plane substantially parallel to the front plate (12), but is not limited thereto.

[0113] Referring to Fig. 5, the main body (10) may include a front lower bracket (80). Fig. 5 may be a drawing of the front lower bracket (80) in Fig. 4 in a coupled state. The front lower bracket (80) may be positioned at the lower portion between the two side plates (11b, 11c). The front lower bracket (80) may be coupled to at least one of the edges of the two side plates (11b, 11c) or the first coupling portion (111d) of the base (11d). The front lower bracket (80) may be positioned so that, for example, both sides overlap the first coupling portion (111d). The front lower bracket (80) may be positioned in front of the first coupling portion (111d). The front lower bracket (80) may be coupled to the first coupling portion (111d) and may be firmly fixed.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the front lower bracket (80) may include a side coupling portion. The side coupling portion may be configured to couple with the first coupling portion (111d) of the base (11d) or the front portions of the two side plates (11b, 11c).

[0115] According to one embodiment, the front lower bracket (80) may include a front plate support portion (81) extending forward from the top. The front plate support portion (81) may be provided to support the load of the front plate (e.g., the front plate (12) of FIG. 6). The front plate support portion (81) may support the front plate (12) and block the load of the front plate (12) from being transferred to the detergent box (e.g., the detergent box (110) of FIG. 3) or the detergent box housing (e.g., the detergent box housing (120) of FIG. 3). The front lower bracket (80) may stably support the front plate (12) regardless of the presence or absence of the detergent box (110) or the detergent box housing (120).

[0116] Referring to Fig. 6, the front plate (12) can be placed on the front lower bracket (80). Fig. 6 may be a drawing of the front plate (12) in Fig. 5 in a coupled state. During the process of assembling the front plate (12), the position of the front plate (12) can be fixed by the flange (82) of the front lower bracket (80). The front plate (12) can be provisionally coupled to the front lower bracket (80). In a state in which the front plate (12) is provisionally coupled to the front lower bracket (80), the front plate (12) can be coupled to both side plates (11b, 11c). The position of the front plate (12) can be fixed by being coupled to both side plates (11b, 11c). The front plate (12) can be supported by, for example, at least one of the two side plates (11b, 11c) or the front lower bracket (80). After the front plate (12) is connected to the two side plates (11b, 11c), the front plate (12) can maintain its position even if the front lower bracket (80) is separated.

[0117] According to one embodiment, when the front plate support portion (81) of the front lower bracket (80) supports the front plate (12), the front lower bracket (80) may have a structure that is recessed inwardly relative to the front plate (12). That is, the front lower bracket (80) may be positioned inward relative to the front plate (12). The recessed shape of the front lower bracket (80) may provide or define a space in which the detergent box (110) is accommodated on the lower side of the front plate (12).

[0118] According to one embodiment, the front lower bracket (80) may be positioned between the front plate (12) and the base (11d). The front lower bracket (80) may be positioned to separate the front plate (12) from the base (11d). The front plate (12) and the base (11d) may be positioned to be spaced apart from each other with the front lower bracket (80) therebetween. The lower end of the front plate (12) may be in contact with the front lower bracket (80).

[0119] In the case of existing clothes treatment devices having a detergent box installed at the bottom, there was a problem that the structural rigidity of the front panel was reduced when the detergent box was pulled out because the space for accommodating the detergent box was formed through the front plate (or front panel) as an integral part. In the present disclosure, by arranging a front lower bracket (80) that supports the front plate (12) and provides a space for accommodating the detergent box (110) at the bottom of the front plate (12), the structural rigidity can be improved regardless of whether the detergent box (110) is inserted or pulled out.

[0120] Referring to Fig. 7, a detergent housing (120) may be coupled to the front of the front lower bracket (80). Fig. 7 may illustrate a drawing of the detergent housing (120) coupled to Fig. 6. The detergent housing (120) may have an open front and form a space for accommodating the detergent housing (110). The detergent housing (120) may be positioned on the lower side of the front plate (12). The detergent housing (120) may be referred to as, for example, a guide filter.

[0121] Referring to Fig. 8, a detergent box (110) can be detachably coupled to a detergent box housing (120). Fig. 8 may illustrate a drawing in which a detergent box (110) is added to Fig. 7. When the detergent box (110) is coupled to the detergent box housing (120), the front portion of the detergent box (110) and the front plate (12) can form the same plane. When the detergent box (110) is inserted into the detergent box housing (120), the detergent box (110) can be positioned so as not to protrude forward from the front plate (12). When a user withdraws the detergent box (110) from the detergent box housing (120), the withdrawal direction is guided by the detergent box housing (120), so that the detergent box (110) can be withdrawn without significant shaking.

[0122] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of the front lower bracket in a garment processing device according to one embodiment, viewed from the front.

[0123] Any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIG. 9 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other drawings of this specification. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described with respect to FIGS. 1 to 8 and FIGS. 10 to 14 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIG. 9.

[0124] Among the configurations illustrated in FIG. 9, the same reference numbers are used for configurations that are substantially the same or similar to the configuration of the garment treatment device illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 8 (e.g., the garment treatment device (1) of FIG. 1).

[0125] Referring to Fig. 9, the front lower bracket (80) may include a plurality of fastening holes (83). The plurality of fastening holes (83) may include one of the first fastening hole (831), the second fastening hole (832), the third fastening hole (833), or the fourth fastening hole (83).

[0126] The first fastening hole (831) may be a hole formed to allow the front lower bracket (80) to be coupled to the two side plates (11b, 11c). The first fastening hole (831) may be formed, for example, around the edges on both sides of the front lower bracket (80). The first fastening hole (831) may be formed at the upper portion of the front lower bracket (80). There may be a plurality of first fastening holes (831).

[0127] The second fastening hole (832) may be a hole formed to allow the front lower bracket (80) to be coupled to the base (11d). The second fastening hole (832) may be formed, for example, at the lower portion of the front lower bracket (80). There may be a plurality of second fastening holes (832). The plurality of second fastening holes (832) may be arranged at a predetermined interval along the length direction of the front lower bracket (80).

[0128] The third fastening hole (833) may be a hole formed to allow the front lower bracket (80) to be fastened to the first fastening portion (111d) of the base (11d). The third fastening hole (833) may be positioned to overlap the first fastening portion (111d), for example. There may be a plurality of third fastening holes (833).

[0129] The fourth fastening hole (83) may be a hole formed for coupling to the detergent box housing (120). There may be a plurality of fourth fastening holes (83). The fourth fastening holes (83) may be formed in a plurality of places where they do not overlap the two side plates (11b, 11c), the base (11d), and the first fastening portion (111d) of the base (11d).

[0130] Fig. 10 is a rear perspective view of a front panel in a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0131] Any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIG. 10 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other drawings of this specification. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described with respect to FIGS. 1 to 9 and FIGS. 11 to 14 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIG. 10.

[0132] The front plate (12) illustrated in FIG. 10 may be substantially identical or similar to the front plate (12) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 8.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 10, the front plate (12) may include a support structure (1211). The support structure (1211) may be positioned at the lower portion of the front plate (12). The support structure (1211) may be positioned toward the rear (or inner side) of the front plate (12).

[0134] In one embodiment, the support structure (1211) may be a portion supported by a front lower bracket (e.g., the front lower bracket (80) of FIG. 6). When the front plate (12) is placed on the front lower bracket (80), the support structure (1211) and the front plate support portion (81) of the front lower bracket (80) may be placed so that at least a portion thereof overlaps vertically. The support structure (1211) may be supported by the front plate support portion (81).

[0135] According to one embodiment, the front plate (12) may include at least one insertion hole (1211a). The at least one insertion hole (1211a) may be formed at the lower portion of the front plate (12). The at least one insertion hole (1211a) may be formed on the inner side of the front plate (12).

[0136] According to one embodiment, the support structure (1211) may include at least one insertion hole (1211a). The insertion hole (1211a) may be formed such that a flange of the front lower bracket (80) (e.g., flange (82) of FIG. 11) may be inserted therein. The insertion hole (1211a) may be formed to vertically penetrate the support structure (1211).

[0137] In one embodiment, the support structure (1211) may be manufactured separately from the front plate (12) and then joined. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the support structure (1211) may be formed integrally with the front plate (12).

[0138] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a garment handling device according to one embodiment, wherein the front lower bracket is coupled to a side plate.

[0139] Any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIG. 11 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other drawings of this specification. Likewise, any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described with respect to FIGS. 1 to 10 and FIGS. 12 to 14 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIG. 11.

[0140] The front lower bracket (80) illustrated in FIG. 11 may be substantially identical or similar to the front lower bracket (80) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 9.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 11, the front lower bracket (80) may include a front plate support (81). The front plate support (81) may extend horizontally from the top of the front lower bracket (80). The front plate support (81) may support at least a portion of the load of the front plate (e.g., the front plate (12) of FIG. 10).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the front lower bracket (80) may include a flange (82). The flange may extend upward from the front plate support member (81). The flange (82) may be inserted into an insertion hole (e.g., an insertion hole (1211a) of FIG. 10) formed in a support structure (e.g., a support structure (1211) of FIG. 10) of the front plate (12).

[0143] According to one embodiment, the upper portion of the flange (82) may be formed to slope upward toward the front. By bending the upper portion of the flange (82) to be inclined, the insertion hole (1211a) of the front plate (12) and the flange (82) can be more easily assembled during the assembly process.

[0144] FIGS. 12 and 13 are side views illustrating a process of attaching a front plate to a front lower bracket during an assembly process of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

[0145] Any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other drawings of this specification. Likewise, any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described with respect to FIGS. 1 to 11 and FIG. 14 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIGS. 12 and 13.

[0146] The configuration illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13 can be included in the garment treatment device (1) of FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0147] Referring to Fig. 12, a process of assembling the front plate (12) to be placed on the front lower bracket (80) is illustrated. As illustrated, when assembling the front plate (12), the insertion hole (e.g., insertion hole (1211a) of Fig. 10) located at the lower portion of the front plate (12) may be assembled in an inclined direction to couple with a flange (e.g., flange (82) of Fig. 11). In order to facilitate matching of the positions of the flange (82) and the insertion hole (1211a) despite the inclined direction of the front plate (12), the upper portion of the flange (82) may be formed to be inclined toward the front.

[0148] When the front plate (12) is placed on the front lower bracket (80) through the process of FIG. 12, the front plate can be temporarily fixed or temporarily joined to the two side plates (11b, 11c) by being in close contact with them as shown in FIG. 13. The joining of the flange (82) of the front lower bracket (80) and the insertion hole (e.g., the insertion hole (1211a) of FIG. 10) of the front plate (12) may be a joining for fixing the front plate (12) before fastening it to the two side plates (11b, 11c). After the front plate (12) is temporarily fixed or temporarily joined to the front lower bracket (80) as shown, the front plate (12) can be joined to the two side plates (11b, 11c).

[0149] FIG. 14 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a front plate is attached to a front lower bracket in a garment processing device according to one embodiment.

[0150] Any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIG. 14 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other drawings of this specification. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 13 may be incorporated, alone or in combination, into the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIG. 14.

[0151] Fig. 14 is a side cross-sectional view specifically explaining the state in which the front plate (12) in Fig. 13 is temporarily fixed to the front lower bracket (80).

[0152] Referring to Fig. 14, when the front plate (12) is temporarily fixed or connected to the front lower bracket (80), the flange (82) can be fitted into the insertion hole (1211a). The flange (82) may have elasticity. A portion of the flange (82) may be elastically deformed in the forward (or outward) direction so that the flange (82) can be inserted into the insertion hole (1211a). The flange (82) may be made of, for example, an elastic material. An elastic restoring force is generated by the elastic deformation of the flange (82), and accordingly, the flange (82) can press the inner surface of the insertion hole (1211a). The flange (82) can press the insertion hole (1211a) toward the rear of the front plate (12). By pressing the insertion hole (1211a) of the flange (82) toward the rear of the front plate (12), the front plate (12) can be fixed in close contact with both side plates (e.g., both side plates (11b, 11c) of Fig. 1). This allows the assembler to more conveniently connect the front plate (12) to both side plates (11b, 11c).

[0153] A garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body (10) including a base (11d) forming a bottom surface, a front plate (12) having an opening formed therein for loading laundry, and a front lower bracket (80) arranged to support the front plate (12) and separate the front plate (12) from the base (11d), a tub (30) arranged inside the main body (10) for storing water, a detergent box housing (120) arranged in front of the front lower bracket (80), a detergent box (110) accommodated in the detergent box housing (120), and a pump (140) arranged to supply detergent stored in the detergent box (110) to the tub (30). The front plate (12) may include a support structure (1211) arranged at a lower portion thereof so as to be supported by the front lower bracket (80).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the front lower bracket (80) may further include a front plate support portion (81) configured to extend forward from the top to support the front plate (12).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the front lower bracket (80) may include an upwardly extending flange (82) to secure the front plate (12).

[0156] According to one embodiment, the upper portion of the flange (82) may be formed to slope upward toward the front.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the front plate (12) may include an insertion hole (1211a) formed vertically and positioned at the bottom so that the flange (82) of the front lower bracket (80) may be inserted.

[0158] According to one embodiment, the flange (82) may be configured to press the front plate (12) backward by elastic force to bring the front plate (12) into close contact with the two side plates (11b, 11c) of the main body (10).

[0159] According to one embodiment, the front lower bracket (80) may be formed to be recessed inwardly relative to the front plate (12).

[0160] According to one embodiment, the front lower bracket (80) may include a first fastening hole (831) formed on both sides for fastening to the two side plates (11b, 11c) of the main body (10), a second fastening hole (832) formed at the bottom for fastening to the base (11d), and a third fastening hole (833) formed for fastening to a part of the base (11d).

[0161] According to one embodiment, the front lower bracket (80) may include an upwardly extending flange (82) to secure the front plate (12). The support structure (1211) may include an insertion hole (1211a) formed vertically through which the flange (82) is inserted.

[0162] According to one embodiment, the insertion hole (1211a) may be formed by vertically penetrating the support structure (1211).

[0163] According to one embodiment, the flange (82) may be configured to press the front plate (12) in the rearward direction by elastic force to bring the front plate (12) into close contact with the two side plates (11b, 11c) of the main body (10).

[0164] According to one embodiment, the base (11d) may include a first coupling portion (111d) extending upward and coupled to the front lower bracket (80).

[0165] According to one embodiment, the first coupling portion (111d) may have a plane substantially parallel to the front plate (12).

[0166] According to one embodiment, the first connecting portion (111d) may extend upward from a corner portion of the base (11d).

[0167] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a structure in which structural rigidity is not reduced even when a detergent box disposed at the lower part of the main body is pulled out.

[0168] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a structure that allows easy access to internal components by disassembling only the front lower bracket without disassembling the entire front panel when repairing internal components.

[0169] According to various embodiments proposed in the present disclosure, the garment treatment device may have a front lower bracket positioned at the bottom of the front plate to support the front plate of the main body regardless of the withdrawal of the detergent drawer.

[0170] Although the foregoing description in this disclosure has focused on specific embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to such specific embodiments, but rather encompasses various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the various embodiments.

Claims

1. A main body (10) including a base (11d) forming a floor surface, a front plate (12) having an opening formed therein for inserting laundry, and a front lower bracket (80) positioned to support the front plate (12) and separate the front plate (12) from the base (11d); A tub (30) placed inside the main body (10) to store water; A detergent box housing (120) positioned in front of the front lower bracket (80); A detergent box (110) accommodated in the detergent box housing (120); and It includes a pump (140) arranged to supply detergent stored in the detergent box (110) to the tub (30), The above front panel (12) is A garment treatment device comprising a support structure (1211) positioned at the bottom to be supported by the front lower bracket (80).

2. In paragraph 1, The above front lower bracket (80) is A garment treatment device further comprising a front plate support member (81) configured to extend forward from the top and support the front plate (12).

3. In paragraph 2, The above front lower bracket (80) is A garment treatment device comprising a flange (82) extended upwardly to secure the front plate (12).

4. In paragraph 3, The upper part of the above flange (82) is A garment handling device formed so as to slope upward toward the front.

5. In paragraph 3, The above front panel (12) is A garment treatment device including an insertion hole (1211a) formed through the upper and lower portions so that the flange (82) of the front lower bracket (80) is inserted therein, located at the bottom.

6. In paragraph 5, The above flange (82) is A clothing treatment device configured to press the front plate (12) backwards by elastic force to bring the front plate (12) into close contact with the two side plates (11b, 11c) of the main body (10).

7. In one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above front lower bracket (80) is A clothing processing device having an inwardly sunken front panel (12).

8. In one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above front lower bracket (80) is A first fastening hole (831) formed on both sides to be coupled to the two side plates (11b, 11c) of the main body (10); A second fastening hole (832) formed at the bottom to be coupled to the above base (11d); and A garment treatment device including a third fastening hole (833) formed to be coupled to a portion of the above base (11d).

9. In one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above front lower bracket (80) is It includes a flange (82) extended upward to secure the front plate (12), The above support structure (1211) is Including an insertion hole (1211a) formed through the upper and lower portions so that the above flange (82) can be inserted. Garment handling device.

10. In paragraph 9, The above insertion hole (1211a) is A clothing processing device formed by penetrating the above support structure (1211) from top to bottom.

11. In paragraph 9, The above flange (82) is A clothing treatment device configured to press the front plate (12) in a rearward direction by elastic force to bring the front plate (12) into close contact with the two side plates (11b, 11c) of the main body (10).

12. In one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The above base (11d) is A garment treatment device comprising a first connecting portion (111d) extending upward and connected to the front lower bracket (80).

13. In paragraph 12, The above first connecting portion (111d) is A garment treatment device having a plane substantially parallel to the front plate (12).

14. In paragraph 12, The above first connecting portion (111d) is A clothing processing device extending upward from a corner portion of the above base (11d).

Images