Washing machine

Abstract

A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise: a housing; a tub disposed inside the housing; a drum disposed inside the tub to accommodate laundry; a pulsator rotatably disposed inside the drum; a driving device for transmitting driving force to the pulsator, the driving device comprising a shaft having a groove formed on the outer circumferential surface thereof; and a pulsator cap which is coupled to the pulsator and of which at least a portion is vertically movable so as to connect the pulsator and the shaft. The pulsator cap may comprise: a locking member configured to contact the groove of the shaft; a first cap comprising a first cover portion and a first cylinder portion accommodating the shaft and having a hole into which at least part of the locking member is inserted; and a second cap comprising a second cover portion and a second cylinder portion accommodating the first cylinder portion. At least a portion of the locking member is inserted into the hole to be positioned between the shaft and the second cylinder portion, and, in response to vertical movement of the second cap, the locking member comes into contact with the groove of the shaft, thereby securing the pulsator to the shaft.

Description

washing machine

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a fixing structure of a pulsator of a washing machine.

[0002] A washing machine is a device that washes laundry by utilizing the friction between laundry (e.g., clothing) and water (e.g., wash water). Generally, washing machines can be divided into front-loading (e.g., drum type) and top-loading (e.g., pulsator type) types.

[0003] Front-load washing machines have a drum that holds laundry, positioned horizontally or at an angle to the ground. Front-load washing machines perform washing by rotating the drum, causing the laundry contained in the drum to repeatedly rise and fall.

[0004] A top-load washing machine comprises a drum that holds laundry, positioned perpendicular to the ground, and a pulsator that generates a rotating water current on the bottom surface of the drum. A top-load washing machine performs washing by rotating the pulsator and utilizing the rotating water current generated by the pulsator.

[0005] Typically, a top-load type washing machine includes a pulsator, a shaft for transmitting driving force to the pulsator, a fastening member such as a bolt for connecting the shaft and the pulsator, and a pulsator cap for covering the fastening member.

[0006] In the case of fixing the pulsator using a fastening member such as a bolt, the fastening area has become deeper due to the enlargement of the washing machine, making it difficult for the worker to visually check the assembly of the pulsator.

[0007] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a washing machine having a structure that indirectly secures a pulsator to a shaft through a combination of a pulsator cap and a shaft.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine may include a housing, a tub disposed inside the housing, a drum disposed inside the tub and configured to accommodate laundry, a pulsator rotatably disposed inside the drum, a driving device for transmitting driving force to the pulsator, the driving device including a shaft having a groove formed on an outer circumferential surface, and a pulsator cap coupled to the pulsator and having at least a portion movable up and down to connect the pulsator and the shaft. The pulsator cap may include a first cap including a catch member for contacting the groove of the shaft, a first cover part, and a first cylinder part configured to accommodate the shaft and having a hole into which at least a portion of the catch member is inserted, and a second cap including a second cylinder part for accommodating the first cylinder part. The above-mentioned catch member is positioned between the shaft and the second cylinder part by being inserted at least partially into the hole, and can contact the groove of the shaft according to the up-and-down movement of the second cap and fix the pulsator to the shaft.

[0009] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a pulsator cap for covering a shaft may include a first cap, a second cap, and a catch member that contacts a groove formed on an outer surface of the shaft according to the up-and-down movement of the second cap. The pulsator cap may be coupled to or separated from the shaft according to the movement of the catch member. When the pulsator cap and the shaft are coupled, the upward movement of the pulsator is restricted by the pulsator cap, thereby preventing the pulsator from coming off during washing without a separate fastening member. In addition, when the pulsator cap is not fastened to the shaft, the second cap and the first cap form a step, so that an operator can visually check the fastening state of the pulsator cap and the shaft.

[0010] The effects that can be achieved by the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure 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 the implementation of 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.

[0011] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating components connected to a control unit in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a pulsator and a pulsator cap according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 5A is an exploded perspective view of a pulsator, a pulsator cap, and a shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 5b is an exploded perspective view of a pulsator, a pulsator cap, and a shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' shown in FIG. 4 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a separated state of a pulsator cap and a shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a pulsator and a pulsator cap according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 9A is an exploded perspective view of a pulsator, a pulsator cap, and a shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 9b is an exploded perspective view of a pulsator, a pulsator cap, and a shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' shown in FIG. 8 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a separated state of a pulsator cap and a shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] 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.

[0026] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more items, unless the 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] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0029] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being “coupled” or “connected” to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively,” it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0030] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0031] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0032] When we say that a component is “on” another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0033] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0034] The operating principle and embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings below.

[0035] According to various embodiments, home appliances may include a clothing treatment device. A washing machine, one such clothing treatment device, can perform washing, rinsing, dehydration, 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 capable of both washing and drying clothing.

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

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

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

[0039] 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0051] The washing machine may include a control panel positioned on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface for a user to interact with the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0052] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0053] 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.

[0054] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user.

[0055] 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.

[0056] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with external devices via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0057] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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).

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in one embodiment, a washing machine (1) may include a housing (10), a tub (20), a drum (30), a pulsator (40), a driving device (50), and a pulsator cap (100, 200).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the housing (10) may form the overall appearance of the washing machine (1). The housing (10) may be configured to have, for example, an open upper side and an overall rectangular parallelepiped shape. According to one embodiment, the housing (10) may include a front panel (10a), a rear panel (10b), a side panel (10c), and a base (10d). In one embodiment, the front panel (10a) may constitute the front of the washing machine (1). In one embodiment, the rear panel (10b) may constitute the rear of the washing machine (1). In one embodiment, the side panels (10c) may constitute both side surfaces of the washing machine (1). In one embodiment, the base (10d) may constitute the bottom surface of the washing machine (1).

[0068] According to one embodiment, the top cover (12) may be positioned on the upper portion of the housing (10). The top cover (12) may be positioned to cover, for example, an opening formed on the upper portion of the housing (10). In one embodiment, the top cover (12) may be provided with an inlet (12a) for loading laundry into the drum (30).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the door (14) may be rotatably coupled to the top cover (12). In one embodiment, the door (14) may be coupled to the top cover (12) so as to open and close the inlet (12a) provided in the top cover (12) according to a user's motion. The top cover (12) may, for example, be configured with at least a portion of a transparent window so that a user can visually view the inside of the washing machine (1) (e.g., drum (30)) from the outside.

[0070] In one embodiment, the control panel (16) may be disposed on one side of the top cover (12). The control panel (16) may be positioned, for example, at the rear edge of the top cover (12) adjacent to the rear panel (10b) of the housing (10). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the control panel (16) may be configured to receive commands regarding the overall operation of the washing machine (1) from a user. For example, the control panel (16) may include an input unit (16a) including a power button for power on / off operation of the washing machine (1) and / or a function button for performing various washing modes of the washing machine (1). In one embodiment, the control panel (16) may be configured to display operation information of the washing machine (1). For example, the control panel (16) may include a display unit (16b) in the form of a display.

[0071] In one embodiment, the tub (20) may be configured to receive wash water. The tub (20) may be, for example, provided in a cylindrical shape with an open top. In one embodiment, the tub (20) may be disposed inside the housing (10). In one embodiment, the tub (20) may be supported inside the housing (10) by a suspension device (25).

[0072] According to one embodiment, a water supply pipe (21) for supplying water (e.g., wash water) to the tub (20) may be arranged on the upper side of the tub (20). In one embodiment, one end of the water supply pipe (21) may be connected to an external water source (not shown). In one embodiment, a water supply valve (22) configured to control the flow rate of water supplied from the water source (not shown) may be arranged on one end of the water supply pipe (21). In one embodiment, the other end of the water supply pipe (21) may be connected to a detergent supply device (23). In one embodiment, the detergent supply device (23) may be configured to receive detergent for washing laundry. Water supplied through the water supply pipe (21) may be supplied into the tub (20) together with the detergent via the detergent supply device (23).

[0073] According to one embodiment, a drain pipe (27) for discharging wash water to the outside may be arranged at the lower side of the tub (20). In one embodiment, a drain valve (28) configured to control the flow rate of the discharged wash water may be arranged at the drain pipe (27).

[0074] In one embodiment, the drum (30) may be configured to accommodate laundry. The drum (30) may be, for example, provided in a cylindrical shape with an open top. In one embodiment, the drum (30) may be placed inside the tub (20). In one embodiment, a balancer (34) may be provided on the top of the drum (30) to ensure stable rotation of the drum (30) when rotating at high speeds. The balancer (34) may be positioned to resolve load imbalance caused by the laundry.

[0075] According to one embodiment, a plurality of holes (32) may be provided on the side of the drum (30) to allow washing water to flow into and out of the drum (30).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the pulsator (40) may be rotatably provided at the bottom of the drum (30). In one embodiment, the pulsator (40) may generate a washing water stream during a washing cycle. Laundry contained in the drum (30) may be washed by the washing water stream formed by the pulsator (40).

[0077] In one embodiment, the drive device (or drive section) (50) may be configured to rotate the drum (30) and / or the pulsator (40). In one embodiment, the drive device (50) may include a motor (51) that converts electrical power into mechanical rotational power and a shaft (52, 53) that transmits the driving power of the motor (51) to the drum (30) and / or the pulsator (40).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the motor (51) may include a fixed stator (51a) and a rotor (51b) that rotates by electromagnetic interaction with the stator (51a).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the shaft (52, 53) may include a shaft (52) configured to transmit the driving force of the motor (51) to the drum (30) and / or the pulsator (40), and a clutch device (53) for connecting or disconnecting the motor (51) and the shaft (e.g., the dehydration shaft (52b)).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the shaft (52) may include a washing shaft (52a) arranged to transmit the driving force of the motor (51) to the pulsator (40) and a dewatering shaft (52b) arranged to transmit the driving force of the motor (51) to the drum (30).

[0081] In one embodiment, the dehydration shaft (52b) may be formed to have a hollow space. In one embodiment, the washing shaft (52a) may be placed in the hollow space of the dehydration shaft (52b). The washing shaft (52a) may be connected to the rotor (51b) of the motor (51). The dehydration shaft (52b) may be connected to or disconnected from the rotor (51b) of the motor (51) by a clutch device (53).

[0082] When the clutch device (53) connects the dehydration shaft (52b) and the motor (51), power is transmitted to both the dehydration shaft (52b) and the washing shaft (52a), so that the drum (30) and the pulsator (40) can rotate simultaneously. When the pulsator (40) and the drum (30) rotate simultaneously (e.g., dehydration cycle), the laundry contained inside the drum (30) rotates, and the moisture contained in the laundry is removed by the centrifugal force caused by the rotation, so that the laundry can be dehydrated.

[0083] When the clutch device (53) disconnects the dehydration shaft (52b) and the motor (51), only the pulsator (40) can rotate by the power transmitted to the washing shaft (52a). When only the pulsator (40) rotates (e.g., during the washing cycle), a washing water flow can be generated by the rotation of the pulsator (40). As the laundry rotates by the generated washing water flow, the laundry can be washed through friction with the drum (30).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the clutch device (53) may include an actuator (53a), a rod (53b), a lever (53c), and a coupling (53d).

[0085] In one embodiment, the actuator (53a) can generate a driving force for power switching. In one embodiment, the rod (53b) can be arranged to move linearly by the operation of the actuator (53a). In one embodiment, the lever (53c) can be connected to the rod (53b) so as to be rotatable. In one embodiment, the coupling (53d) can be coupled to the dehydration shaft (52b) so as to rise / fall according to the operation of the lever (53c). In this case, when the coupling (53d) descends, it is connected to the rotor (51b) so that the driving force of the motor (51) can be transmitted to the dehydration shaft (52b), and when the coupling (53d) rises, it is separated from the rotor (51b) so that the driving force of the motor (51) cannot be transmitted to the dehydration shaft (52b).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the pulsator cap (100, 200) may be detachably coupled to the shaft (52). The pulsator cap (10, 200) may be provided to secure the pulsator (40) to the shaft (52). The pulsator cap (10, 200) may be provided to cover the shaft (52) from the outside to prevent damage to laundry during operation of the washing machine (1). Hereinafter, the structure of the pulsator cap (100, 200) will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 11.

[0087] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating components connected to a control unit in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 3, a washing machine (1) according to one embodiment may include an input unit (16a), a sensor unit (60), a communication unit (70), a control unit (80), a memory (90), a driving unit (50), a water supply unit (e.g., a water supply valve (22) of FIG. 2), a drain unit (e.g., a drain valve (28) of FIG. 2), or a display unit (16b).

[0089] Below, the description of the overlapping parts with the configuration described in FIGS. 1 and 2 is omitted.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (60) may include a dehydration sensor (61), a current sensor (62), a door sensor (63), or a light sensor (64), but this is exemplary and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the dehydration sensor (61) is a sensor designed to detect the water level within the tub (20), and may be provided to determine the progress of the dehydration process when performing the dehydration process. The control unit (80) may receive information regarding the water level within the tub (20) from the dehydration sensor (61) and use it as a reference for controlling the dehydration process.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the current sensor (62) may be provided to detect the current flowing to the motor (51) of the driving unit (50). The control unit (80) may estimate the torque value applied to the motor (51) using the current value measured by the current sensor (62). The control unit (80) may, for example, estimate the amount of laundry loaded into the drum (30) based on the estimated torque value.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the door sensor (63) may be provided to determine whether the user has closed the door (14) before the control unit (80) performs the washing operation.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the light sensor (64) may be provided to check the level of contamination inside the washing machine (1) by measuring the reflectivity of a portion of the inner surface of the washing machine (1) (e.g., tub (30)). The control unit (80) (or processor) may receive information about the level of contamination inside the washing machine (1) from the light sensor (64), determine whether to wash (e.g., whether to wash the tub), and transmit the information to the user through a display unit (16b) or the like, or execute at least one command preset (or stored) in the memory (90) to proceed with washing.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the communication unit (70) may include one or more modules that enable wireless communication between the washing machine (1) and a wireless communication system, between the washing machine (1) and another device, or between the washing machine (1) and an external server. According to one embodiment, the communication unit (70) may also include one or more modules that connect the washing machine (1) to one or more networks. According to one embodiment, the communication unit (70) may include at least one of a mobile communication module, a wireless Internet module, a short-range communication module, or a location information module.

[0096] According to one embodiment, a mobile communication module may transmit and receive wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network constructed according to, for example, technical standards or communication methods for mobile communication. The wireless signals may include, for example, various forms of data such as voice call signals, video call signals, or text / multimedia message transmission and reception.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the wireless Internet module may be, for example, WLAN (Wireless LAN), Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance), WiBro (Wireless Broadband), WiMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access), HSDPA (High Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access), HSUPA (High Speed ​​Uplink Packet Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), or LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced), but is not limited thereto, and may transmit and receive data according to at least one wireless Internet technology, including Internet technologies not listed above.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the short-range communication module may support short-range communication using at least one of, for example, Bluetooth, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra-Wide Band (UWB), ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and Wireless USB (Universal Serial Bus) technologies. The short-range communication module may support wireless communication between the washing machine (1) and a wireless communication system, between the washing machine (1) and another device, or between the washing machine (1) and a network in which the other device is located, for example, via a short-range wireless communication network. Here, the wireless short-range communication network may be a short-range wireless personal area network.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the location information module may be, for example, a module for obtaining the location of the washing machine (1), and may be a GPS (Global Positioning System) module or a Wi-Fi module. When the washing machine (1) utilizes a GPS module, information regarding the location of the washing machine (1) can be received using signals transmitted from GPS satellites. When the washing machine (1) utilizes a Wi-Fi module, information regarding the location of the washing machine (1) can be received based on information from a wireless AP (Wireless Access Point) that transmits and receives wireless signals with the Wi-Fi module.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the control unit (80) can control the overall operation of the washing machine (1). To this end, the control unit (80) may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), or a communication processor (CP). The control unit (80) may be, for example, a microcontroller (MCU).

[0101] According to one embodiment, the control unit (80) may control hardware or software components connected to the control unit (80) by, for example, driving an operating system or application program, and may also perform various data processing and operations. In addition, the control unit (80) may load commands or data received from at least one of the other components into volatile memory and process them, and store various data in non-volatile memory.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the control unit (80) can control the washing process using, for example, a signal received from the input unit (16a) or the communication unit (70). The control unit (80) can control, for example, at least one of a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, a dehydration cycle, or a drying cycle. The control unit (80) can control the operation of the driving unit (50), the water supply unit (22), or the drain unit (28) to control at least one of the washing cycle, the rinsing cycle, the dehydration cycle, or the drying cycle. At this time, the control unit (80) can receive operation information about the washing machine (1) from the sensor unit (60) and perform feedback control.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the memory (90) can store data supporting various functions of the washing machine (1). The memory (90) can store, for example, a plurality of application programs (or applications) used in the washing machine (1), data for the operation of the washing machine (1), and commands. At least some of these application programs can be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. In addition, at least some of these application programs can be stored in the memory (90) from the time of shipment for the basic functions of the washing machine (1). The application programs can be stored in the memory (90), for example, and driven by the control unit (80) to perform operations (or functions) of the washing machine (1). According to some embodiments, the memory (90) may be included as a part of the control unit (80) configuration.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (1) may further include a speaker (not shown). The speaker may be provided to, for example, audibly provide the user with information to guide user input or information related to the current cycle.

[0105] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a pulsator and a pulsator cap according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0106] FIG. 5A is an exploded perspective view of a pulsator, a pulsator cap, and a shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0107] FIG. 5b is an exploded perspective view of a pulsator, a pulsator cap, and a shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0108] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' shown in FIG. 4 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a separated state of a pulsator cap and a shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0110] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 7, a washing machine according to one embodiment (e.g., the washing machine (1) of FIGS. 1 and 2) may include a pulsator (40), a shaft (52), and a pulsator cap (100).

[0111] In one embodiment, a pulsator (40) may be provided to form a washing water stream. In one embodiment, the pulsator (40) may have an overall disc shape.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the pulsator (40) may include a fastening hole (41), a plurality of lifts (42), and a cap receiving portion (43).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the fastening hole (41) can penetrate the center of the pulsator (40). In one embodiment, the fastening hole (41) can be provided in the center of the cap receiving portion (43). A shaft (52) can be inserted into the fastening hole (41). The pulsator (40) can be coupled to the shaft (52) through the fastening hole (41). The horizontal cross-section of the fastening hole (41) can have a shape corresponding to the horizontal cross-section of an end of the shaft (52) inserted into the fastening hole (41). For example, when the end of the shaft (52) inserted into the fastening hole (41) has a horizontal cross-section in the shape of a gear wheel, the cross-section of the fastening hole (41) can have a horizontal cross-section shape for engaging with the end of the shaft (52) having the shape of a gear wheel.

[0114] According to one embodiment, a plurality of lifts (42) may protrude from the upper surface of the pulsator (40). The plurality of lifts (42) may extend radially from the center of the pulsator (40) and may be spaced apart from each other. The plurality of lifts (42) may cause a falling motion of laundry accommodated in the drum (30) when the pulsator (40) rotates.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the cap receiving portion (43) may be provided to receive a pulsator cap (100). In one embodiment, the cap receiving portion (43) may be recessed from the upper surface of the pulsator (40). The cap receiving portion (43) may be located at the center of the pulsator (40). According to one embodiment, the cap receiving portion (43) may include a first mounting portion (431) and a second mounting portion (432). The first mounting portion (431) and the second mounting portion (432) may form a multi-stage structure. For example, the first mounting portion (431) may form a step with the upper surface of the pulsator (40), and the second mounting portion (432) may form a step with the first mounting portion (432). For example, the recessed depth of the second mounting portion (432) may be set to be deeper than the recessed depth of the first mounting portion (431). For example, the width (or diameter) of the second mounting portion (432) may be set to be narrower than the width (or diameter) of the first mounting portion (431).

[0116] According to one embodiment, the shaft (52) may include a first part (521) and a second part (522). In one embodiment, the first part (521) may have an overall hollow cylindrical shape. The first part (521) may be inserted into a fastening hole (41) of the pulsator (40) and coupled to the pulsator (40). An insertion hole (521a) into which the second part (522) is inserted may be provided on an upper surface of the first part (521). The first part (521) may be referred to as a body portion of the shaft (52). In one embodiment, the second part (522) may be detachably coupled to the first part (521). For example, the second part (522) may be inserted into the insertion hole (521a) of the first part (521) and coupled to the first part (521). In one embodiment, a groove (522a) may be provided on the circumferential surface of the second part (522). The groove (522a) may extend along the circumferential surface of the second part (522), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The second part (522) may be referred to as the tip portion of the shaft (52).

[0117] According to one embodiment, a pulsator cap (100) may be provided to cover a shaft (52) coupled to a pulsator (40). The pulsator cap (100) is mounted in the cap receiving portion (43) of the pulsator (40) and may cover a portion of the shaft (52) exposed to the outside, for example, a second part (522) of the shaft (52), from the outside. The pulsator cap (100) covers the shaft (52), thereby preventing damage to the laundry caused by friction between the shaft (52) and the laundry during washing. In one embodiment, the pulsator cap (100) may have an overall circular shape when viewed from above, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the pulsator cap (100) may include a first cap (110), a second cap (120), a plurality of catch members (130), and an elastic member (140). According to one embodiment, the pulsator cap (100) may be provided to be detachably coupled to a shaft (52). The pulsator cap (100) may be coupled to or separated from the shaft (52) in response to the movement of the plurality of catch members (130) due to the up-and-down movement of the second cap (120) with respect to the first cap (110). Hereinafter, the coupling structure (or, catch structure) of the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52) will be described.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the first cap (110) may include a first cover portion (111) and a first cylinder portion (112).

[0120] According to one embodiment, the first cover portion (111) may cover at least a portion of the upper side of the cap receiving portion (43). The first cover portion (111) of the first cap (110) may cover the upper side of the cap receiving portion (43) together with the second cover portion (121) of the second cap (120) to be described later. For example, the first cover portion (111) and the second cover portion (121) may cover an end portion (e.g., the second part (522)) of the shaft (52) exposed to the outside. In one embodiment, the first cover portion (111) may form a circle together with the second cover portion (121) when viewed from above. The first cover portion (111) may be provided so that its cross-sectional area is wider than that of the second cover portion (121) when viewed from above.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the first cylinder portion (112) may be provided on the lower side of the first cover portion (111). The first cylinder portion (112) may extend downward from the lower surface (or bottom surface) of the first cover portion (111). The first cylinder portion (112) may have a cylindrical shape with an open lower side overall.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the first cylinder portion (112) may include a first body portion (1121) having a space (1121a) that is open at the lower end to accommodate at least a portion of the shaft (52) (e.g., the second part (522)), and a first flange portion (1123) extending along the periphery of the first body portion (1121).

[0123] According to one embodiment, a plurality of holes (1122) may be provided on the side of the first body portion (1121) into which at least a portion of the engaging member (130) is inserted when the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52) are coupled.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the first flange portion (1123) may be provided on the upper periphery of the first body portion (1121) that is in contact with the lower surface (or bottom surface) of the first cover portion (111). The first flange portion (1123) may be in contact with the upper end of the elastic member (140) and may include a fixing portion (1123a) for supporting the elastic member (140).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the second cap (120) may include a second cover portion (121), a connecting portion (122), and a second cylinder portion (123).

[0126] According to one embodiment, the second cover portion (121) can cover at least a portion of the upper side of the cap receiving portion (43). As described above, the second cover portion (121) can cover the upper side of the cap receiving portion (43) (or the end of the shaft (52) exposed to the outside) together with the first cover portion (111).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the connecting portion (122) may extend downward from the lower surface (or bottom surface) of the second cover portion (121). The connecting portion (122) may connect the second cover portion (121) and the second cylinder portion (123).

[0128] According to one embodiment, the second cylinder part (123) may have a cylindrical shape with the upper and lower sides being open overall. According to one embodiment, the second cylinder part (123) may be provided to surround the first cylinder part (112) of the first cap (110). The second cylinder part (123) may accommodate the first cylinder part (112) on the inside when the pulsator (40) and the pulsator cap (100) are assembled. For example, the width (or diameter) of the second cylinder part (123) may be provided to be larger than the width (or diameter) of the first cylinder part (112).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the second cylinder portion (123) may include a second body portion (1231) having a space (1231a) that is open at the upper and lower sides to accommodate the first cylinder portion (112), a second flange portion (1232) extending along the periphery of the second body portion (1231), and a support portion (1233) protruding from the inner surface of the second body portion (1231).

[0130] According to one embodiment, the support member (1233) may be provided at a position facing the hole (1122) of the first cap (110) when the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52) are coupled.

[0131] The support member (1233) can support the fixation of the engaging member (130) together with the groove (522a) of the shaft (52) when the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52) are coupled. For example, when the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52) are coupled, the support member (1233) can contact one end (e.g., bridge portion (131)) of the engaging member (130) and press the engaging member (130) toward the groove (522a) of the shaft (52), thereby maintaining the contact state between the other end (e.g., hook portion (132)) of the engaging member (130) and the groove (522a) of the shaft (52).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the support portion (1233) may include a flat portion (1233a) having a flat surface in the vertical direction, and an inclined portion (1233b) extending downwardly from the lower end of the flat portion (1233a) toward the space (1231a) of the second body portion (1231). The flat portion (1233a) may correspond to a portion that comes into contact with the engaging member (130) when the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52) are coupled. The inclined portion (1233b) may correspond to a portion that comes into contact with the engaging member (130) when the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52) are separated. For example, as the second cap (120) moves up and down, the contact portion between the catch member (130) and the support member (1233) changes, thereby causing a coupling / separation operation between the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52).

[0133] According to one embodiment, the hook member (130) may include a bridge portion (131) and a hook portion (132) bent upward from the lower end of the bridge portion (131). For example, the hook member (130) may have a hook shape overall. At least a portion of the hook member (130), for example, the hook portion (132), may be inserted into the hole (1122) of the first cylinder portion (112).

[0134] The plurality of catch members (130) may be provided to be deformable and / or restorable. For example, when an external force is applied to the bridge portion (131) of the catch member (130), the bridge portion (131) and the hook portion (132) may fold so as to come closer to each other. For example, when the external force applied to the bridge portion (131) of the catch member (130) is removed, the bridge portion (131) and the hook portion (132) may unfold so as to move away from each other and be restored to their original state.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the engaging member (130) can move closer to or further away from the groove (522a) of the shaft (52) according to the up-and-down movement of the second cap (120), thereby coupling or separating the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52).

[0136] According to one embodiment, an elastic member (e.g., a spring) (140) may be disposed between the first cylinder portion (112) and the second cylinder portion (123). The elastic member (140) may be fixed such that an upper end thereof is in contact with a fixing portion (1123a) of the first flange portion (1123) and a lower end thereof is in contact with an upper surface of a support portion (1233). The elastic member (140) may support the coupling of the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52) by providing elastic force to each of the first cap (110) and the second cap (120).

[0137] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the combined state of the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52). Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the separated state of the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52).

[0138] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the coupling / separation operation of the pulsator cap (100) and shaft (52) will be described.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 6, although not explicitly shown in the drawing, when the second cap (120) is lowered, the bridge portion (131) and the hook portion (132) of the catch member (130) move away from each other (i.e., unfold). For example, the bridge portion (131) of the catch member (130) moves closer to the support portion (1233), and the hook portion (132) of the catch member (130) moves closer to the groove (522a) of the shaft (52). When the second flange portion (1232) of the second cylinder portion (123) comes into contact with the second mounting portion (432) of the cap receiving portion (43) due to the lowering motion of the second cap (120), the hook portion (132) of the engaging member (130) comes into contact with (or is engaged with) the groove (522a) of the shaft (52), thereby coupling the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52) to each other.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 7, although not explicitly shown in the drawing, when the second cap (120) rises, the bridge portion (131) and the hook portion (132) of the catch member (130) move toward each other (i.e., fold). For example, the bridge portion (131) of the catch member (130) moves away from the support portion (1223) by being pressed by the inclined portion (1223b) of the support portion (1223), and the hook portion (132) of the catch member (130) moves away from the groove (522a) of the shaft (52). The hook portion (132) of the catch member (130) is released from contact (or engagement) with the groove (522a) of the shaft (52) by the rising motion of the second cap (120), thereby separating the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52). When the second cap (120) rises, the first cover part (111) of the first cap (110) and the second cover part (121) of the second cap (120) form a step, so that the user (or worker) can visually check the current coupling state (i.e., separation state) of the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52).

[0141] The pulsator (40) is fixed to the shaft (52) when the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52) are coupled, with each step portion (431, 432) coming into contact with the first cover portion (111) and / or the second flange portion (1232). That is, the pulsator (40) can be fixed to the shaft (52) through the pulsator cap (100) without a separate fastening member such as a bolt and / or screw.

[0142] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a pulsator and a pulsator cap according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0143] FIG. 9A is an exploded perspective view of a pulsator, a pulsator cap, and a shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0144] FIG. 9b is an exploded perspective view of a pulsator, a pulsator cap, and a shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0145] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' shown in FIG. 8 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0146] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a separated state of a pulsator cap and a shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0147] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 11, a washing machine according to one embodiment (e.g., the washing machine (1) of FIGS. 1 and 2) may include a pulsator (40a), a shaft (52), and a pulsator cap (200).

[0148] The pulsator (40a) illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 11 may be substantially identical or similar to the pulsator (40) illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 7 in terms of structure, shape, and / or function. Accordingly, when describing the pulsator (40a), descriptions of overlapping portions will be omitted. In addition, descriptions of portions overlapping with the configurations described in FIGS. 4 to 7 will be omitted.

[0149] In one embodiment, the pulsator (40a) may be provided to form a washing water stream. In one embodiment, the pulsator (40a) may have an overall disc shape.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the pulsator (40a) may include a fastening hole (41a), a plurality of lifts (42a), and a cap receiving portion (43a).

[0151] According to one embodiment, the shaft (52) may include a first part (521) and a second part (522). In one embodiment, the first part (521) may have an overall hollow cylindrical shape. The first part (521) may be inserted into a fastening hole (41a) of the pulsator (40a) and coupled to the pulsator (40a). In one embodiment, the second part (522) may be detachably coupled to the first part (521). For example, the second part (522) may be inserted into a fitting hole (521a) of the first part (521) and coupled to the first part (521).

[0152] According to one embodiment, the pulsator cap (200) may be arranged to cover a shaft (52) coupled to the pulsator (40a).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the pulsator cap (200) may include a first cap (210), a second cap (220), a plurality of catch members (230), and an elastic member (240). According to one embodiment, the pulsator cap (200) may be provided to be detachably coupled to the shaft (52). The pulsator cap (200) may be coupled to or separated from the shaft (52) in response to the movement of the plurality of catch members (230) due to the up-and-down movement of the second cap (220) with respect to the first cap (210). Hereinafter, the coupling structure (or, catch structure) of the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52) will be described.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the first cap (210) may include a first cover portion (211) and a first cylinder portion (212).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the first cover portion (211) can cover at least a portion of the upper side of the cap receiving portion (43a). The first cover portion (211) of the first cap (210) can cover the upper side of the cap receiving portion (43) together with the second cover portion (221) of the second cap (220). For example, the first cover portion (211) and the second cover portion (221) can cover an end portion (e.g., the second part (522)) of the shaft (52) exposed to the outside. The first cover portion (211) can have an overall circular shape when viewed from above. A receiving groove (211a) can be provided on the lower surface of the first cover portion (211) at an edge adjacent to the first cylinder portion (212) to receive at least a portion (e.g., the upper portion) of the elastic member (240). The receiving groove (211a) can be extended to surround the first cylinder portion (212).

[0156] According to one embodiment, the first cylinder part (212) may be provided on the lower side of the first cover part (211). The first cylinder part (212) may extend downward from the lower surface (or bottom surface) of the first cover part (211). The first cylinder part (212) may have an overall cylindrical shape with an open lower side. The first cylinder part (212) may be open at the lower side to form a space (212a) in which at least a portion (e.g., the second part (522)) of the shaft (52) is accommodated. A plurality of holes (213) may be provided on the side surface of the first cylinder part (212) into which at least a portion of each of the plurality of engaging members (230) is inserted.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the second cap (220) may include a second cover portion (221) and a second cylinder portion (222).

[0158] In one embodiment, the second cover portion (221) may cover at least a portion of the upper side of the cap receiving portion (43). As described above, the second cover portion (221) may cover the upper side of the cap receiving portion (43) (or the end of the shaft (52) exposed to the outside) together with the first cover portion (211). In one embodiment, the second cover portion (221) may form a circle together with the first cover portion (211) when viewed from above. The second cover portion (221) may have a ring shape so as to surround the first cover portion (211) when viewed from above.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the second cylinder portion (222) may have a cylindrical shape with an overall upper side open. According to one embodiment, the second cylinder portion (222) may be arranged to surround the first cylinder portion (212) of the first cap (210).

[0160] The second cylinder part (222) can accommodate the first cylinder part (212) on the inside when assembling the pulsator (40a) and the pulsator cap (200). For example, the width (or diameter) of the second cylinder part (222) can be provided to be larger than the width (or diameter) of the first cylinder part (212).

[0161] According to one embodiment, the second cylinder portion (222) may include a body portion (or side wall) (2221) forming a side surface of the second cylinder portion (222), a bottom portion (or base) (2222) connected to the body portion (2221) and forming a bottom surface of the second cylinder portion (222), and a support portion (2223) protruding from an inner surface (2222c) of the bottom portion (2222).

[0162] According to one embodiment, the body portion (2221) of the second cylinder portion (222) may extend downward along the edge of the second cover portion (221). For example, the body portion (2222) of the second cylinder portion (222) may have an overall cylindrical shape with the upper and lower sides open.

[0163] According to one embodiment, the bottom portion (2222) may be provided with a hole (2222a) through which the first cylindrical portion (212) of the first cap (210) passes. The inner surface of the bottom portion (2222) may define the hole (2222a) together with the support portion (2223). The upper surface of the bottom portion (2222) of the second cylindrical portion (222) may be provided with a receiving groove (2222b) in which at least a portion (e.g., a lower portion) of the elastic member (240) is received. The receiving groove (2222b) may extend along an edge of the hole (2222a).

[0164] According to one embodiment, the support member (2223) may be provided at a position facing the hole (213) of the first cap (210) when the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52) are coupled.

[0165] The support member (2223) can support the fixation of the engaging member (230) together with the groove (522a) of the shaft (52) when the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52) are coupled. For example, the support member (2223) can maintain the contact state between the other side of the engaging member (230) and the groove (522a) of the shaft (52) by contacting one side of the engaging member (230) and pressing the engaging member (230) toward the groove (522a) of the shaft (52) when the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52).

[0166] According to one embodiment, the support (2223) may include a flat portion (2223a) having a flat surface in the vertical direction, and a protrusion (2223b) protruding from the flat portion (2223a) toward the hole (2222a) and having an inclined surface.

[0167] In one embodiment, the flat portion (2223a) may correspond to a portion that comes into contact with or faces the engaging member (230) when the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52) are coupled. The protrusion (2223b) and / or the inner surface (2222c) of the bottom portion (2222) may correspond to a portion that comes into contact with or faces the engaging member (230) when the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52) are separated. For example, depending on the up-and-down movement of the second cap (220), the portion that the engaging member (230) comes into contact with or faces changes, thereby performing a coupling / separation operation between the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52).

[0168] In one embodiment, the support member (2223) may have a stepped structure with respect to the inner surface (2222c) of the bottom portion (2222). For example, the width (or diameter) of the inner surface (2222c) of the bottom portion (2222) may be configured to be greater than the width (or diameter) of the support member (2223). The engaging member (230) may move closer or farther away from the groove (522a) of the shaft (52) according to the vertical movement of the second cap (220).

[0169] According to one embodiment, the catch member (230) may have a ball shape. At least a portion of the catch member (230) may be inserted into the hole (213) of the first cylinder portion (212).

[0170] According to one embodiment, the catch member (230) can move closer to or further away from the groove (522a) of the shaft (52) according to the up-and-down movement of the second cap (220), thereby coupling or separating the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52).

[0171] According to one embodiment, an elastic member (e.g., a spring) (240) may be disposed between the first cover portion (211) and the second cylinder portion (222). The elastic member (240) may be fixed such that an upper end thereof is in contact with a receiving groove (211a) of the first cover portion (211) and a lower end thereof is in contact with a receiving groove (2222b) of the bottom portion (2222). The elastic member (240) may support the coupling of the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52) by providing elastic force to each of the first cap (210) and the second cap (220).

[0172] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the combined state of the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52). Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the separated state of the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52).

[0173] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, the coupling / separation operation of the pulsator cap (200) and shaft (52) will be described.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 10, although not explicitly shown in the drawing, when the second cap (220) is lowered, at least a portion of the catch member (230) faces or comes into contact with the support member (2223), thereby moving the catch member (230) closer to the groove (522a) of the shaft (52). When the bottom portion (2222) of the second cylinder portion (222) comes into contact with the bottom surface of the cap receiving portion (43a) due to the lowering motion of the second cap (220), the catch member (230) comes into contact with (or is caught in) the groove (522a) of the shaft (52), thereby coupling the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52) to each other.

[0175] Referring to FIG. 11, although not explicitly shown in the drawing, when the second cap (220) is raised, the engaging member (230) moves away from the groove (522a) of the shaft (52) so that at least a portion of the engaging member (230) faces or contacts the protrusion (2223b) of the support member (2223) and / or the inner surface (2222c) of the bottom portion (2222). The engaging member (230) is released from the contact (or engaging) state with the groove (522a) of the shaft (52) by the rising motion of the second cap (220), and the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52) are separated. When the second cap (220) rises, the first cover part (211) of the first cap (210) and the second cover part (221) of the second cap (220) form a step, so that the user (or worker) can visually check the current coupling state (i.e., separation state) of the pulsator cap (200) and the shaft (52).

[0176] A washing machine (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing (10). The washing machine (1) may include a tub (20) disposed inside the housing (10). The washing machine (1) may include a drum (30) disposed inside the tub (20) and configured to accommodate laundry. The washing machine (1) may include a pulsator (40, 40a) rotatably disposed inside the drum (30). The washing machine (1) may include a driving device (50) including a shaft (52) having a groove (522a) formed on an outer circumferential surface as a driving device for transmitting driving force to the pulsator (40, 40a). The washing machine (1) may include a pulsator cap (100, 200) coupled with the pulsator (40, 40a) and at least a portion of which is provided to be movable up and down to connect the pulsator (40, 40a) and the shaft (52). The pulsator cap (100, 200) may include a catch member (130, 230) for contacting a groove (522a) of the shaft (52). The pulsator cap (100, 200) may include a first cap (110, 210) including a first cover part (111, 211) and a first cylinder part (112, 211) that receives the shaft (52) and has a hole (1122, 213) into which at least a portion of the catch member (130, 230) is inserted. The above pulsator cap (100, 200) may include a second cap (120, 220) including a second cover portion (121, 221) and a second cylinder portion (123, 222) that accommodates the first cylinder portion (112, 211). At least a portion of the engaging member (130, 230) is inserted into the hole (1122, 213) and is positioned between the shaft (52) and the second cylinder portion (123, 222), and may contact a groove (522a) of the shaft (52) according to the up-and-down movement of the second cap (120, 220) and fix the pulsator (40, 40a) to the shaft (52).

[0177] According to one embodiment, the pulsator (40, 40a) may include a cap receiving portion (43, 43a) that is recessed from the upper surface of the pulsator (40, 40a) and in which the pulsator cap (100, 200) is seated. When the second cap (120, 220) is lowered toward the cap receiving portion (43, 43a), the engaging member (130, 230) may come into contact with the groove (522a) and connect the pulsator cap (100, 200) and the shaft (52).

[0178] According to one embodiment, the pulsator (40, 40a) may include a cap receiving portion (43, 43a) that is recessed from the upper surface of the pulsator (40, 40a) and in which the pulsator cap (100, 200) is seated. When the second cap (120, 220) rises in the opposite direction of the cap receiving portion (43, 43a), the engaging member (130, 230) may separate the pulsator cap (100, 200) and the shaft (52) without contacting the groove (522a).

[0179] According to one embodiment, the pulsator cap (100, 200) may have a circular shape when viewed from above.

[0180] According to one embodiment, the first cover portion (111) and the second cover portion (121) may form a circle together when viewed from above. The area of ​​the first cover portion (111) and the second cover portion (121) when viewed from above may be larger for the first cover portion (111) than for the second cover portion (121).

[0181] According to one embodiment, the first cover portion (211) may have a circular shape when viewed from above. The second cover portion (221) may have a ring shape surrounding the first cover portion (211) when viewed from above.

[0182] According to one embodiment, the catch member (130) may include a bridge portion (131) and a hook portion (132) that is bent upward from the bridge portion (131) and is intended to come into contact with the groove (522a).

[0183] According to one embodiment, the second cylinder portion (123) may include a cylindrical second body portion (1231) having a space (1231a) for accommodating the first cylinder portion (112), a second flange portion (1232) protruding from an outer surface of the second body portion (1231) and extending along a perimeter of the second body portion (1231), and a support portion (1233) protruding from an inner surface of the second body portion (1231) and positioned to face the groove (522a) when the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52) are coupled.

[0184] According to one embodiment, the support portion (1233) may include a flat portion (1233a) and an inclined portion (1233b) that slopes downward from the lower end of the flat portion (1233a) toward the space (1231a) of the second body portion (1231).

[0185] According to one embodiment, the first cylinder portion (112) may extend downward from the bottom surface of the first cover portion (111). The first cylinder portion (112) may include a cylindrical first body portion (1121) having a space (1121a) for accommodating an end portion (522) of the shaft (52), and a first flange portion (1123) extending along the circumference of the first body portion (1121) from a fixed end portion of the first body portion (1121).

[0186] According to one embodiment, the pulsator cap (100) may further include an elastic member (140) disposed between the first flange portion (1123) of the first cylinder portion (112) and the support portion (1233) of the second cylinder portion (123).

[0187] According to one embodiment, the catch member (230) may have a spherical shape.

[0188] According to one embodiment, the second cylinder portion (222) may include a cylinder-shaped body portion (2221) extending downward from the second cover portion (221) and a disc-shaped bottom portion (2222) connected to the lower end of the body portion (2221) and having a hole (2222a) through which the first cylinder portion (212) passes.

[0189] In one embodiment, the bottom portion (2222) may have a surface (2222c) defining the hole (2222a). The bottom portion (2222) may include a support portion (2223) protruding from the surface (2222c) toward the hole (2222a).

[0190] According to one embodiment, the pulsator cap (200) may further include an elastic member (240) disposed between the first cover portion (211) and the bottom portion (2222) of the second cylinder portion (222).

Claims

1. In the washing machine (1), Housing (10); A tub (20) placed inside the above housing (10); A drum (30) placed within the above tub (20) for accommodating laundry; A pulsator (40, 40a) rotatably arranged within the drum (30); A driving device (50) including a shaft (52) having a groove (522a) formed on the outer surface thereof as a driving device for transmitting driving force to the above pulsator (40, 40a); and It includes a pulsator cap (100, 200) which is coupled to the pulsator (40, 40a) and is provided with at least a portion thereof that can move up and down to connect the pulsator (40, 40a) and the shaft (52). The above pulsator cap (100, 200) is A catch member (130, 230) for contacting the groove (522a) of the above shaft (52); A first cap (110, 210) including a first cover portion (111, 211) and a first cylinder portion (112, 212) that accommodates the shaft (52) and has a hole (1122, 213) into which at least a part of the engaging member (130, 230) is inserted; and It includes a second cover part (121, 221) and a second cap (120, 220) including a second cylinder part (123, 222) that accommodates the first cylinder part (112, 211). A washing machine in which the above-mentioned catch member (130, 230) is positioned between the shaft (52) and the second cylinder part (123, 222) by being inserted at least partially into the hole (1122, 213), and comes into contact with the groove (522a) of the shaft (52) according to the up-and-down movement of the second cap (120, 220) and fixes the pulsator (40, 40a) to the shaft (52).

2. In paragraph 1, The above pulsator (40, 40a) includes a cap receiving portion (43, 43a) that is sunken from the upper surface of the pulsator (40, 40a) and in which the pulsator cap (100, 200) is seated. A washing machine in which, when the second cap (120, 220) is lowered toward the cap receiving portion (43, 43a), the engaging member (130, 230) comes into contact with the groove (522a) and connects the pulsator cap (100, 200) and the shaft (52).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above pulsator (40, 40a) includes a cap receiving portion (43, 43a) that is sunken from the upper surface of the pulsator (40, 40a) and in which the pulsator cap (100, 200) is seated. A washing machine in which, when the second cap (120, 220) rises in the opposite direction of the cap receiving portion (43, 43a), the engaging member (130, 230) does not come into contact with the groove (522a) and separates the pulsator cap (100, 200) and the shaft (52).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above pulsator cap (100, 200) is a washing machine having a circular shape when viewed from above.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The first cover part (111) and the second cover part (121) form a circle together when viewed from above. A washing machine in which the areas of the first cover part (111) and the second cover part (121) as viewed from above are larger than those of the second cover part (121).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above first cover part (211) has a circular shape when viewed from above, A washing machine in which the second cover part (221) has a ring shape surrounding the first cover part (211) when viewed from above.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, A washing machine, wherein the above-mentioned hook member (130) includes a bridge portion (131) and a hook portion (132) that is bent upward from the bridge portion (131) and is intended to come into contact with the groove (522a).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above second cylinder part (123) is A second body part (1231) having a cylinder shape and having a space (1231a) for accommodating the first cylinder part (112); A second flange portion (1232) protruding from the outer surface of the second body portion (1231) and extending along the perimeter of the second body portion (1231); and A washing machine including a support part (1233) protruding from the inner surface of the second body part (1231) and positioned to face the groove (522a) when the pulsator cap (100) and the shaft (52) are coupled.

9. In paragraph 8, The above support (1233) is A washing machine comprising a flat portion (1233a) and an inclined portion (1233b) inclined downward from the lower end of the flat portion (1233a) toward the space (1231a) of the second body portion (1231).

10. In paragraph 8, The first cylinder portion (112) extends downward from the bottom surface of the first cover portion (111), A washing machine comprising a cylindrical first body portion (1121) having a space (1121a) for accommodating an end portion (522) of the shaft (52), and a first flange portion (1123) extending along the circumference of the first body portion (1121) from a fixed end portion of the first body portion (1121).

11. In paragraph 10, A washing machine, wherein the pulsator cap (100) further includes an elastic member (140) disposed between the first flange portion (1123) of the first cylinder portion (112) and the support portion (1233) of the second cylinder portion (123).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above-mentioned hanging member (230) has a spherical shape, a washing machine.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above second cylinder part (222) is A cylindrical body portion (2221) extending downward from the second cover portion (221); and A washing machine including a bottom portion (2222) in the shape of a disc, which is connected to the lower portion of the body portion (2221) and has a hole (2222a) through which the first cylinder portion (212) passes.

14. In paragraph 13, The above bottom portion (2222) has one surface (2222c) defining the hole (2222a), A washing machine including a support member (2223) protruding from the above surface (2222c) toward the hole (2222a).

15. In paragraph 13 or 14, A washing machine, wherein the pulsator cap (200) further includes an elastic member (240) disposed between the first cover part (211) and the bottom part (2222) of the second cylinder part (222).

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