Garment treatment apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to a garment treatment apparatus, which detects the amount of garments before input to a performance unit that performs a course, so as to display information related thereto. Specifically, the present invention relates to a garment treatment apparatus, which displays the sensed amount of garments in correspondence to the detergent amount indicated on the detergent.

Description

Clothing processing device

[0001] The present invention relates to a clothing processing device.

[0002] Generally, a garment processing device refers to a device capable of performing one or more of washing, drying, and care for clothing. Here, the garment processing device may perform only washing, drying, or care functions, or it may perform washing, drying, or care functions.

[0003] Such a garment processing device is equipped with an optional course for washing, drying, or managing garments, and the execution time of the course is calculated based on the amount of garments. For example, if the weight of the garments is large, the execution time will be set relatively long, and conversely, if the weight of the garments is small, the execution time will be set relatively short.

[0004] FIG. 1 illustrates a control method of a conventional clothing processing device (a method of performing an arbitrary course) (see Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2009-0077097, etc.).

[0005] FIG. 1(a) illustrates a control method in which a conventional clothing processing device performs an arbitrary course.

[0006] Referring to FIG. 1(a), a conventional clothing processing device may include a power supply step (S1) for supplying power to the clothing processing device by inputting (on) a power button, a selection step (S2) for selecting an appropriate course or option on the control panel of the clothing processing device, and a start step (S3) for inputting an execution button to execute a course with multiple options set.

[0007] In the case where the conventional clothing processing device is equipped as a front-load washing machine having an opening for introducing clothing at the front of the cabinet, when the starting step (S3) is performed, a door locking step (S4) for locking the door to the cabinet may be performed.

[0008] At this time, the conventional clothing processing device performs a weight detection step (S5) that detects the amount of clothing through an applied current value while rotating a drum or the like that receives the clothing. When the amount of clothing is calculated, the control unit of the conventional clothing processing device performs a time display step (S6) that displays the estimated execution time of the selected course to the user, and then performs an execution step (S7) that automatically executes the course.

[0009] Consequently, the weight detection step (S5) and time display step (S6) of the conventional clothing processing device are performed after the start step (S3) in which the user executes the course. Therefore, there was a problem in that the user was forced to input the execution of the course without receiving information about the weight of the clothing or the expected execution time.

[0010] As a result, there was a problem in that the user could not actively control the execution time of the course or option, and the time display step (S6) could not perform a role beyond simply conveying information to the user at the service level.

[0011] Furthermore, conventional clothing processing devices had a problem in that they did not provide room for the user to take active measures, such as adding or reducing clothing, even if the execution time displayed in the time display step (S6) was not suitable for the user's current intention or situation.

[0012] In addition, conventional garment processing devices had a problem in that, even if the execution time of a selected course or option did not match the user's intention, the course could not be canceled or changed unless active measures were taken, such as turning off the power of the garment processing device again.

[0013] This inconvenience was further exacerbated when the aforementioned clothing processing device was controlled remotely.

[0014] Figure 1(b) illustrates the rotational state of the drum when a conventional clothing processing device detects the amount of clothing.

[0015] Referring to FIG. 1(b), the conventional clothing processing device rotated the drum (D) in the I direction at least once to detect the amount of the clothing (L).

[0016] Specifically, the conventional clothing processing device calculates the amount of clothing (L) by measuring the current value applied to or output to the driving unit that rotates the drum (D) while rotating the drum (D) in the I direction.

[0017] In a conventional clothing processing device, when the drum (D) is rotated to detect the amount of clothing, the clothing (L) on the bottom surface of the drum rises inside the drum (D) and then falls in direction II due to gravity, inevitably separating from the inner wall of the drum (D).

[0018] Therefore, conventional clothing processing devices had a limitation in that, in order to detect the accurate amount of the clothing (L), the drum (D) had to be rotated continuously in the I direction for at least one rotation while aligning the applied or output current values.

[0019] As a result, conventional clothing processing devices had a problem in that the time required to detect the amount of clothing (L) was inevitably longer than the time required to continuously rotate the drum (D).

[0020] In addition, since the time required for the weight detection step (S5) in conventional clothing processing devices is set to be relatively long, there was a problem in that the time display step (S6), which indicates the execution time of a course or option, could not be quickly guided to the user.

[0021] Furthermore, the conventional clothing processing device performed the detection of the amount of clothing only after a start step (S3) was performed in which the user selected a course or option and entered an execution button.

[0022] As a result, there was a problem where users could not check the amount of clothing in advance to select a course or option, and in most cases, users had already left the clothing processing unit by the time the amount of clothing was detected.

[0023] Therefore, conventional clothing processing devices had a fundamental problem in that users could not check or actively utilize information regarding the amount of clothing.

[0024] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device capable of detecting the amount of clothing before inputting a performing unit that executes a course and displaying information regarding the amount of clothing externally.

[0025] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a garment processing device that displays the amount of clothing to the user before inputting the execution unit, thereby inducing the user to inject only the necessary amount of detergent.

[0026] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device that displays the amount of clothing before input to the execution unit, and displays it in a manner corresponding to an appropriate amount of detergent provided by a detergent supplier or standardized.

[0027] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device capable of guiding the amount of clothing detected and the execution time of a course before the input of the execution unit.

[0028] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a garment processing device capable of displaying the execution time of a changed course when there is a change in the course before the input of the execution unit.

[0029] To solve the above-mentioned problem, the present invention may be provided to include a cabinet having an input port for introducing clothing, a tub provided inside the cabinet for storing water, a drum provided inside the tub for receiving the clothing, a driving unit connected to the tub for rotating the drum, a power supply unit receiving a power command for supplying power, an execution unit receiving an execution command for executing a course for processing the clothing, and a control panel including a display unit for displaying the amount of clothing.

[0030] The above driving unit may be configured to rotate the drum after the power supply is input.

[0031] The above display unit may be configured to display the amount of clothing after the driving unit rotates the drum, and to display the amount of clothing corresponding to the amount of detergent indicated on the detergent.

[0032] The above detergent amount may correspond to any one of the detergent stages, including a weight stage, a bulk stage indicating an amount greater than the weight stage, and a super bulk stage indicating an amount greater than the bulk stage.

[0033] The above detergent step may further include a small amount step indicating a smaller amount than the above weight step.

[0034] The above display unit may be configured to simultaneously display the amount of the clothing and the execution time of the course.

[0035] The above display unit is configured to display an icon regarding the amount of the clothing, and the icon may be configured to be displayed together with the amount of the clothing.

[0036] The amount of the above clothing can be displayed before the above execution unit is input.

[0037] The above clothing processing device further includes a door coupled to the cabinet to open and close the input port, and the driving unit may be configured to rotate the drum while the door is closed after the power supply unit is input.

[0038] The above driving unit is configured to rotate the drum again when the door is opened or closed again, and the above display unit may be configured to display the amount of the clothing again after the driving unit rotates the drum again.

[0039] The above clothing processing device further includes a locking part for locking the door to the cabinet, and the driving part may be configured to rotate the drum when the locking part has unlocked the door.

[0040] The above locking unit may be configured to lock the door to the cabinet when the above performing unit is input.

[0041] The above clothing processing device further includes a course selection unit rotatably provided in the cabinet to receive a selection command for selecting or changing the course, and the display unit may be provided to change the execution time to the execution time of the changed course and display it when the course is changed.

[0042] The above display unit may be configured to display the amount of clothing as is without changing it, even if the course is changed.

[0043] The above detergent may include at least one of a first detergent for removing dirt from the clothing and a second detergent for softening the clothing.

[0044] The above display unit may be configured to display the amount of the clothing corresponding to the amount of detergent indicated on the first detergent, and then to display it corresponding to the amount of detergent indicated on the second detergent.

[0045] The present invention has the effect of providing a clothing processing device capable of detecting the amount of clothing before input from a performing unit that executes a course and displaying information regarding the amount of clothing externally.

[0046] The present invention has the effect of providing a clothing processing device that displays the amount of clothing to the user before inputting the execution unit, thereby inducing the user to input only the necessary amount of detergent.

[0047] The present invention has the effect of providing a clothing processing device that displays the amount of clothing before input to the execution unit, and displays it in a manner corresponding to an appropriate amount of detergent provided by a detergent supplier or standardized.

[0048] The present invention has the effect of providing a clothing processing device capable of guiding the amount of clothing detected and the execution time of the course before the input of the execution unit.

[0049] The present invention has the effect of providing a garment processing device capable of displaying the execution time of a changed course when there is a change in the course before the input of the execution unit.

[0050] Figure 1 illustrates a control method of a conventional clothing processing device.

[0051] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of the internal structure when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a washing machine.

[0053] FIG. 4 illustrates an example of the internal structure when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a dryer.

[0054] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a control panel of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 6 illustrates the clothing processing device of the present invention being provided in a tower shape (hereinafter referred to as a wash tower) in which a washing machine and a dryer are stacked and arranged.

[0056] FIG. 7 illustrates an example in which the control panel of the present invention is provided as a common panel.

[0057] FIG. 8 illustrates another example of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 9 illustrates an example of the internal structure of a composite device.

[0059] Figure 10 illustrates an example of the structure of a composite panel.

[0060] FIG. 11 illustrates the clothing processing device of the present invention being equipped as a mini device.

[0061] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of the internal structure when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a mini-device.

[0062] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a control panel when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a mini-device.

[0063] FIG. 14 illustrates an example in which the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a top-load type washing machine.

[0064] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of the internal structure when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a top-load type washing machine.

[0065] FIG. 16 illustrates an example of the clothing processing device of the present invention detecting the weight of clothing.

[0066] FIG. 17 illustrates an example of detecting the weight of clothing when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped with a top-load type washing machine.

[0067] FIG. 18 illustrates an example in which the control unit of the clothing processing device of the present invention detects the weight of the clothing through a driving unit.

[0068] FIG. 19 illustrates an example in which the clothing processing device of the present invention utilizes a weight sensing method based on the structure and method described above.

[0069] FIG. 20 illustrates an example of performing weight detection depending on whether the door is open or closed.

[0070] FIG. 21 illustrates another example of determining whether the clothing processing device of the present invention additionally performs weight detection.

[0071] FIG. 22 illustrates an example in which the control method of the clothing processing device of the present invention is implemented in a washing panel or a drying panel.

[0072] FIG. 23 illustrates an example in which a control method of the clothing processing device of the present invention is implemented on a common panel.

[0073] FIG. 24 illustrates an example in which a control method of the clothing processing device of the present invention is implemented in an integrated panel.

[0074] FIG. 25 illustrates an example in which a control method of the clothing processing device of the present invention is implemented on a minipanel.

[0075] FIGS. 26 to 29 illustrate different examples of the state of the display unit after detecting the amount of clothing.

[0076] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In this specification, identical or similar reference numbers are assigned to identical or similar components even if they are different embodiments, and the description thereof is replaced by the first description. Singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, in describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of related prior art are omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, it should be noted that the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and should not be interpreted as limiting the technical concept disclosed in this specification.

[0077] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0078] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include one or more of a washing machine (1) for washing clothes and a dryer (2) for drying clothes. For example, the clothing processing device of the present invention may include both a washing machine (1) and a dryer (2).

[0079] The washing machine (1) of the present invention may be provided as either a front-load type in which an opening for inserting clothes is provided at the front, or a top-load type in which the opening is provided at the top.

[0080] However, since the clothes must rise from the bottom of the drum and be evenly exposed to hot air, it is preferable that the dryer (2) of the present invention be provided as a front-load type with an opening at the front.

[0081] The clothing processing device of the present invention may be equipped with either a washing machine (1) or a dryer (2), or may be equipped to include both a washing machine (1) and a dryer (2), and may include a cabinet (10) that forms the exterior in common, and a drum (30) that is rotatably accommodated in the cabinet (10) and stores clothing.

[0082] The cabinet (10) is provided with an opening communicating with the drum (30), so that clothing can be taken out of and taken out of the drum (30) through the opening.

[0083] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a door (11) rotatably coupled to the cabinet (10). The door (11) may be provided to open and close the opening.

[0084] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a detection unit (13) that detects whether the door (11) has closed the opening. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the drum (30) from rotating while the door (11) has the opening open.

[0085] The above-mentioned sensing unit (13) may be provided in any configuration as long as it can detect whether the door (11) has opened or closed the opening. For example, the above-mentioned sensing unit (13) may include a magnet coupled to the door (11) and a Hall sensor coupled to the cabinet (10) to detect the magnet.

[0086] Meanwhile, in order to prevent clothing or water inside the drum (30) from being discharged through the opening, the door (11) needs to be optionally fixed to the cabinet (10). To this end, the clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a locking part (12) capable of optionally locking the door (11) to the cabinet (10).

[0087] The locking part (12) may be provided in any configuration as long as it can selectively fix the door (11) to the cabinet (10) to prevent the door (11) from arbitrarily opening the opening. For example, the locking part (12) may include a hook provided on the door (11) and inserted into the cabinet (10), a fastening member provided on the cabinet (10) to selectively fasten the hook, and a fixing member that selectively maintains the combined state of the fastening member and the hook. The fixing member may be provided with a solenoid and a magnet, etc., or may be provided with a mechanical configuration such as a push button structure.

[0088] Meanwhile, the clothing processing device of the present invention is configured to perform a course for processing clothing. For example, if the clothing processing device of the present invention is configured as a washing machine (1), it is configured to perform a washing course for removing foreign substances from the clothing, and if it is configured as a dryer (2), it is configured to perform a drying course for evaporating moisture from the clothing.

[0089] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a control panel (100) configured to receive a command to perform the course, display the status of performing the course, information necessary to perform the course, etc.

[0090] The above control panel (100) may include one or more of a plurality of buttons or touch panels that receive commands from a user, a microphone that receives the user's voice, a camera or proximity sensor that receives the user's actions or status, a screen that displays visual information to the user, and a speaker that conveys auditory information to the user.

[0091] When the clothing processing device of the present invention is provided as a front-load type in which an opening is provided at the front of the cabinet, the control panel (100) may be positioned above the door (11) at the front of the cabinet (10). This ensures accessibility and identifiability.

[0092] Of course, if the clothing processing device of the present invention is provided as a top-load type in which the opening is provided on the upper part of the cabinet, the control panel (100) may be positioned in front of the door (11) on the upper surface of the cabinet (10).

[0093] When the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped with a washing machine (1), the cabinet (10) may include a washing cabinet (10a) that forms the exterior of the washing machine (1), and the door (11) may include a washing door (11a) that opens and closes an opening formed in the washing cabinet (10a).

[0094] The above detection unit (13) may include a washing detection unit (12a) that detects whether the washing door (11a) has opened or closed the opening.

[0095] The above locking part (12) may include a washing locking part (12a) that secures the washing door (11a) to the washing cabinet (10a).

[0096] The drum (30) may include a washing drum (30a) that accommodates clothing.

[0097] Additionally, the washing machine (1) of the present invention may further include a tub (20) that accommodates the washing drum (30a) and is accommodated in the washing cabinet (10a) to store water.

[0098] Additionally, the control panel (100) may include a washing panel (100a) that receives commands to control the washing machine (1) or displays information about the washing machine (1).

[0099] When the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped with a dryer (2), the cabinet (10) may include a drying cabinet (10b) that forms the exterior of the dryer (2), and the door (11) may include a drying door (11b) that opens and closes an opening formed in the drying cabinet (10b).

[0100] The above detection unit (13) may include a drying detection unit (12b) that detects whether the drying door (11b) has opened or closed the opening.

[0101] The above locking part (12) may include a drying locking part (12b) that secures the drying door (11b) to the drying cabinet (10b).

[0102] The drum (30) may include a drying drum (30b) for holding clothing.

[0103] Unlike the washing drum (30a), the drying drum (30b) above may have through holes omitted on its outer surface.

[0104] Additionally, the control panel (100) may include a drying panel (100b) that receives commands to control the dryer (2) or displays information about the dryer (2).

[0105] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of the internal structure when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a washing machine (1).

[0106] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a water supply unit (50) that supplies water to the tub (20) and a drainage unit (60) that drains water from the tub (20).

[0107] The above water supply unit (50) may include a water supply valve (51) which is connected to the laundry cabinet (10a) and connected to an external water source to selectively supply water, a water supply pipe (52) which extends from the water supply valve (51) and delivers water supplied from the external water source, and a detergent box (53) which stores detergent and receives water supplied from the water supply pipe (52) and delivers it to the tub (20).

[0108] The above drainage section (60) may include a discharge pipe (61) connected to the lower part of the tub (20) to discharge water from the tub (20), a drainage pump (62) that provides power to discharge water supplied from the discharge pipe (61) to the outside of the laundry cabinet (10a), and a drainage pipe (63) that extends from the drainage pump (62) to the outside of the laundry cabinet (10a) to discharge water.

[0109] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a water level sensor (21) for detecting the water level of the tub (20).

[0110] The above-mentioned water level sensor (21) may be provided in any configuration as long as it can detect the water level inside the tub (20). The above-mentioned water level sensor (21) may include a connecting pipe connected to the tub (20) and having a closed end, and a sensing part disposed at the top of the connecting pipe to detect changes in pressure inside the connecting pipe.

[0111] The washing machine (1) of the present invention may further include a support member (70) that supports the tub (20) in the washing cabinet (10a).

[0112] The support member (70) may include one or more of a suspension that supports the lower part of the tub (20) and a spring that supports the upper part of the tub (20).

[0113] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a driving unit (40) that rotates the drum (30).

[0114] The above driving unit (40) may include a washing driving unit (40a) that rotates the washing drum (30a).

[0115] The washing drive unit (40a) may include a washing stator (41a) coupled to the tub (20) to generate a rotating magnetic field, a washing rotor (42b) that rotates by the washing stator (41a), and a washing rotation shaft (43a) coupled to the washing rotor (42a), penetrating the tub (20), and coupled to the washing drum (30a).

[0116] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a control unit capable of controlling one or more of the driving unit (40), the water supply valve (51), the drainage pump (62), the locking unit (12), and the water level sensor (21). The control unit may be embedded in the control panel (100) or may be disposed separately from the control panel (100).

[0117] The above control unit may be configured to provide a command to perform any washing course for washing the clothes by controlling one or more of the drive unit (40), the water supply valve (51), the drainage pump (62), the locking unit (12), and the water level sensor (21).

[0118] FIG. 4 illustrates an example of the internal structure when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped with a dryer (2).

[0119] The above drying cabinet (10c) may further include a base that supports the dryer (2) and is positioned below the drum (30). The configuration of the heat supply unit (90), which will be described later, may be installed on the base.

[0120] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a heat supply unit (90) capable of drying clothing contained within the drum (30) by supplying air into the drum (30).

[0121] For example, the heat supply unit (90) may include a circulation unit (90b) that recirculates the air of the drum (30) from below the drum (30).

[0122] The above circulation unit (90b) may include a circulation duct (91b) provided on a base positioned below the drying drum (30b) to provide a flow path for circulating air discharged from the drying drum (30b), an evaporator (92b) housed in the circulation duct (91b) to cool the air and condense moisture, a condenser (93b) positioned downstream of the evaporator to heat the air, a compressor (94b) to supply a refrigerant to heat the air to the condenser (93b), an expansion valve to expand and cool the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (93b), and a circulation fan (96b) positioned inside the circulation duct (91b) to provide power for circulating the air.

[0123] Meanwhile, the circulation unit (90b) may further include a water collection unit (97b) communicating with the circulation duct (91b) to collect water condensed in the evaporator (92b), and a water storage tank (98b) for storing the water collected in the water collection unit (97b).

[0124] Meanwhile, the clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a support member (70) that rotatably supports the drying drum (30b). The support member (70) may include a rotating roller (70b) that rotatably supports one or more of the front and rear of the drying drum (30b).

[0125] The driving unit (40) of the clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a drying driving unit (40b) configured to rotate the drying drum (30a).

[0126] The drying drive unit (40b) may be mounted on a base on which the circulation duct (91b) is installed to rotate the drying drum (30a). In this case, the drying drive unit (40b) may include a motor mounted on the base, a pulley connected to the motor and rotating, and a belt connecting the pulley and the outer surface of the drum.

[0127] However, if the above drying drive unit (40b) is provided as a pulley / belt type, it may be difficult to change the rotational speed and rotational direction of the drying drum (30b).

[0128] Accordingly, in the clothing processing device of the present invention, the drying drive unit (40b) may be positioned at the rear of the drying drum (30b), similar to a washing machine (1). That is, the drying drive unit (40b) may include a drying stator (41b) positioned at the rear of the drying drum (30b), a drying rotor (42b) rotated by the drying stator, and a drying rotation shaft (43b) coupled to the drying rotor (42b) and extending to the rear of the drying drum (30b).

[0129] Thus, the drying drive unit (40b) can freely change the rotation direction and rotation speed of the drying drum (30b).

[0130] Meanwhile, the clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a reduction gear (406b) configured to lower the rpm of the drying rotation shaft (43b) and increase the torque.

[0131] The above reduction gear (406b) may be positioned between the drying drive unit (40b) and the drying drum (30b) to transmit power generated from the drying drive unit (40b) to the drying drum (30b).

[0132] The above reduction gear (406b) may include a complex gearbox connected to the drying rotation shaft (43b) and connected to the drying drum (30b). Thus, the reduction gear (406b) can reduce the rpm compared to the drying rotation shaft (43b) but increase the torque accordingly and transmit it to the drying drum (30b).

[0133] As a result, even as the drying drum (30b) rotates, the clothing does not stick to the inner wall of the drying drum (30b) and can be evenly exposed to the hot air supplied inside the drying drum (30b) as it rises and falls in the drying drum (30b).

[0134] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a drying control unit capable of controlling one or more of the driving unit (40), the heat supply unit (90), the sensing unit (11), and the locking unit (12). The drying control unit may be embedded in the control panel (100) or may be disposed separately from the control panel (100).

[0135] The above drying control unit may be configured to provide a command to perform any washing course for drying the clothing by controlling one or more of the driving unit (40), the heat supply unit (90), the locking unit (12), and the sensing unit (11).

[0136] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of the control panel of the present invention.

[0137] The control panel (100) of the clothing processing device of the present invention may include one or more of the following: a power unit (110) that receives a power command to supply power to all components of the clothing processing device; a course selection unit (130) that receives a selection command to select a course for processing the clothing; an option selection unit (140) that receives a selection command to select an option that can adjust or select one or more of the intensity of the course, the execution time, and additional functions when performing the course; an execution unit (120) that receives an execution command to execute the selected course and option; and a display unit (150) that displays the state in which the course and option are executed, the weight information of the clothing, and information displayed by the clothing processing device.

[0138] The additional functions that can be selected by the option selection unit (140) when performing the above course may include one or more of steam supply, water temperature control, turbo shot due to high-speed drum rotation, setting of the reservation time for performing the course, and a mode switching function that can control other clothing processing devices or external terminals.

[0139] The weight information of the clothing displayed by the above display unit (150) may include one or more of the weight of the clothing itself, the amount of detergent required to process the clothing of that weight, and the estimated execution time of the course for processing the clothing.

[0140] The control panel (100) of the present invention may be provided as any one of the washing panel (100a), the drying panel (100b), or other panels. However, regardless of the form in which the control panel (100) is provided, the functions of the aforementioned power supply unit (110), execution unit (120), course selection unit (130), option selection unit (140), and display unit (150) may be the same.

[0141] The following illustrates that the control panel (100) of the present invention is equipped with a washing panel (100a). The washing panel (100a) and the drying panel (100b) may be configured to receive different commands or display different information, but their structures may be identical.

[0142] The washing panel (100a) is equipped with a rotary knob that rotates the course selection unit (130), and the display unit (150) may include a main display unit (151) placed inside the course selection unit (130) and an auxiliary display unit (152) placed outside the course selection unit (130).

[0143] The main display unit (151) is provided in a circular shape and may be provided to display the course selected by the course selection unit (130) as the course selection unit (130) rotates.

[0144] The main display unit (151) above may be provided to also display the weight information of the detected clothing.

[0145] The main display unit (151) may be equipped with a screen that displays the selected course and weight information. As a result, the language displayed on the main display unit (151) can be freely modified according to the settings. This allows the printing of the name or description of the course provided by the garment processing device on the washing panel (100a) to be omitted. Additionally, the main display unit (151) can freely display the content that the control unit intends to convey in various languages, characters, pictures, shapes, icons, etc.

[0146] The course selection unit (130) may be configured to rotate the outer surface of the main display unit (151) in both directions at a rate of 360 degrees or more, and may be configured so that the course displayed on the main display unit (151) changes according to the rotation angle of the course selection unit (130). The washing panel (100a) may have an encoder that detects the rotation of the course selection unit (130) and determines a corresponding command according to the rotation angle, and a control panel that determines the content displayed on the main display unit (151) according to the encoder.

[0147] The above option selection unit (140) can be placed outside the above course selection unit (130).

[0148] The above option selection section (140) may be configured with an area for determining the intensity of each administration forming a course, such as the first option, second option, and third option, or for inputting a command to input additional functions to the course.

[0149] For example, the first option, the second option, and the third option may each correspond to determining the washing, rinsing, and spin-drying intensity. The corresponding area may be equipped with a touch button or a physical button, but may also be equipped with a touch panel or touch method that receives commands from a liquid crystal screen.

[0150] The above auxiliary display unit (152) can be placed inside the above option selection unit (140).

[0151] The above auxiliary display unit (152) may be provided to display information about options selected or activated in the above option selection unit (140) to the outside.

[0152] Additionally, the auxiliary display unit (152) may be spaced apart from the main selection unit (151). The auxiliary display unit (152) may be placed outside the course selection unit (130) to intuitively guide that content different from that displayed in the main selection unit (151) is being displayed.

[0153] The above option selection part (140) may be provided in a rectangular shape.

[0154] The above auxiliary display unit (152) may be provided with a plurality of lights that display how the intensity of the first option, second option, and third option is set in an intuitive grade.

[0155] For example, if the lights are heavily lit or positioned high, it means that the intensity of that option is higher.

[0156] The power supply unit (110) can be positioned between one side of the course selection unit (130) and the detergent box (53).

[0157] The above execution unit (120) may be positioned between the other side of the course selection unit (130) and the auxiliary display unit (152).

[0158] The power supply unit (110) and the execution unit (120) may be provided as touch buttons or physical buttons, and may be provided to selectively emit light to indicate whether input is possible or not.

[0159] For example, when the power supply unit (110) is input, the power supply unit (110), the execution unit (120), and the display unit (150) may be illuminated.

[0160] FIG. 6 illustrates that the clothing processing device of the present invention is provided in a tower shape (hereinafter, wish tower (3)) in which a washing machine (1) and a dryer (2) are stacked and arranged.

[0161] The above wish tower (3) may be configured in the same way as the washing machine (1) and dryer (2), except that the washing machine (1) and dryer (2) share the same cabinet (10), with the washing machine (1) and dryer (2) positioned at the bottom and the dryer (2) positioned at the top.

[0162] Generally, since the washing machine (1) is equipped with a tub (20) and weighs more than the dryer (2), it is preferable that the washing machine (1) be placed below the dryer (2). However, depending on the design, the dryer (2) may be placed below the washing machine (1).

[0163] In the above wish tower (3), the control panel (100) may include a common panel (100c) positioned between the washing door (11a) of the washing machine (1) and the drying door (11b) of the dryer (2).

[0164] The above common panel (100c) may be configured to receive all control commands from the washing machine (1) and the dryer (2), and to display all content displayed on the washing machine (1) and the dryer (2).

[0165] As a result, the above wish tower (3) is equipped with the washing machine (1) and the dryer (2), but the user can control both the washing machine (1) and the dryer (2) using the above common panel (100c).

[0166] FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment in which the control panel of the present invention is provided as a common panel.

[0167] The common panel (100c) of the present invention may be provided with an upper and a lower part, such that one controls either a washing machine or a dryer, and the other controls the other between a washing machine and a dryer.

[0168] The upper and lower arrangements in the above common panel (100c) may be the same as the arrangement of the washing machine (1) and the dryer (2).

[0169] A main display unit (151) for displaying weight information of the clothing may be provided in the center of the above common panel (100c), a course selection unit (130) for selecting a course may be arranged on one side of the main display unit (151), and an option selection unit (140) for selecting an option may be arranged on the other side.

[0170] The main display unit (151) may be divided vertically. The main display unit (151) may include a washing main display unit (151a) positioned at the bottom and equipped with one or more of icons and screens displaying weight information of the washing machine (1) and status information of the washing machine (1), and a drying main display unit (151b) positioned at the top and equipped with one or more of icons and screens displaying weight information of the dryer (2) and status information of the dryer (2).

[0171] The course selection section (130) can be arranged vertically on the left side of the main display section (151).

[0172] The above course selection unit (130) may include a washing course selection unit (130a) for selecting a plurality of washing courses for washing foreign substances on clothing or removing bacteria on clothing, and a drying course selection unit (130b) positioned above the washing course selection unit (130a) for selecting a plurality of drying courses for removing moisture from clothing or managing clothing by supplying steam and hot air.

[0173] The above option selection section (140) can be arranged vertically on the right side of the main display section (151).

[0174] The above option selection unit (140) may include a washing option selection unit (140a) for selecting a plurality of options for setting the intensity, execution time, and additional functions of a washing course, and a drying option selection unit (140b) positioned below the washing option selection unit (140a) for selecting a plurality of options for setting the intensity, execution time, and additional functions of a drying course.

[0175] The above option selection unit (140) can indicate whether additional functions such as steam supply, turbo shot, water temperature control, drum sterilization, and heat supply unit cleaning are selected by turning on and off the corresponding selection unit.

[0176] Additionally, the auxiliary display unit (152) may be provided to display the intensity of the option selected by the option selection unit (140). The auxiliary display unit (152) may be placed in an area corresponding to the intensity and execution time that can be adjusted by the option selection unit (140).

[0177] The above auxiliary display unit may include a washing auxiliary display unit (151a) positioned above the washing option selection unit (140a) to display the intensity of a set washing option, and a drying auxiliary display unit (151b) positioned above the washing auxiliary display unit (151a) to display the intensity of a set drying option.

[0178] The above power supply unit (110) can be arranged vertically and vertically at one end of the above common panel (110).

[0179] The above power supply unit may include a washing power supply unit (110a) that receives a washing power command to supply power to the washing machine (1), and a drying power supply unit (110b) that receives a drying power command to supply power to the dryer (2).

[0180] The above-mentioned performing unit (120) can be arranged vertically and vertically at the other end of the above-mentioned common panel (110).

[0181] The above execution unit (120) may include a washing execution unit (120a) that receives a washing execution command to execute a selected washing course and option, and a drying execution unit (120b) positioned above the washing execution unit (120a) that receives a drying execution command to execute a selected drying course and option.

[0182] FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0183] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a composite device (4) capable of performing both a washing course and a drying course.

[0184] When the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped with a composite device (4), the cabinet (10) may include a composite cabinet (10c) that forms the exterior of the composite device (4), and the door (11) may include a composite door (11d) that opens and closes an opening formed in the composite cabinet (10c).

[0185] The above detection unit (13) may include a composite detection unit (12d) that detects whether the composite door (11d) has opened or closed the opening.

[0186] The above locking part (12) may include a composite locking part (12d) that secures the composite door (11d) to the composite cabinet (10d).

[0187] The above composite device (4) can perform both the functions of a washing machine (1) and a dryer (2), and a drawer-type clothing processing device (hereinafter, mini device) can be additionally installed at the bottom.

[0188] The control panel (100) of the clothing processing device of the present invention may include a composite panel (100d) capable of controlling one or more of the washing machine (1), dryer (2), and lower mini device (5) at once.

[0189] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of the internal structure of a composite device (4).

[0190] Referring to FIG. 9, the composite device (4) of the present invention may include a composite tub (20d) that is rotatably accommodated in the composite cabinet (10d) to store water, and a composite drum (30d) that is rotatably accommodated in the composite tub (20d) to store water.

[0191] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a water supply unit (50) that supplies water to the tub (20) and a drainage unit (60) that drains water from the tub (20).

[0192] When the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a composite device (4), the water supply unit (50) may include a composite water supply valve (51d) coupled to the composite cabinet (10d) and connected to an external water source to selectively supply water, a composite water supply pipe (52d) extending from the composite water supply valve (51d) to deliver water supplied from the external water source, and a composite detergent box (53d) that stores detergent and receives water supplied from the composite water supply pipe (52d) and delivers it to the composite tub (20d).

[0193] The above drainage section (60) may include a composite discharge pipe (61d) connected to the lower part of the composite tub (20d) to discharge water from the composite tub (20d), a composite drainage pump (62d) that provides power to discharge water supplied from the composite discharge pipe (61d) to the outside of the composite cabinet (10d), and a composite drainage pipe (63d) that extends from the composite drainage pump (62d) to the outside of the composite cabinet (10d) to discharge water.

[0194] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a composite water level sensor (21d) for detecting the water level of the composite tub (20d).

[0195] The above composite water level sensor (21d) may be provided in any configuration as long as it can detect the water level inside the composite tub (20d). The above composite water level sensor (21d) may include a connecting pipe connected to the composite tub (20d) and having a closed end, and a sensing unit disposed at the top of the connecting pipe to detect pressure changes inside the connecting pipe.

[0196] The composite device (4) of the present invention may further include a composite support member (70d) that supports the composite tub (20d) in the composite cabinet (10d).

[0197] The composite support member (70d) may include one or more of a suspension supporting the lower part of the tub (20) and a spring supporting the upper part of the composite tub (20d).

[0198] The composite device (4) of the present invention may include a driving unit (40) having the same structure as the washing machine (1).

[0199] The above composite device (4) may be configured so that the heat supply unit (90) communicates with the composite tub (20d).

[0200] The cabinet (10d) of the above composite device (4) is provided with a base at the bottom, such as a dryer (2), and the heat supply unit (90) can be placed on the base.

[0201] Alternatively, the composite device (4) is equipped with a composite tub (20d) that is firmly supported inside the cabinet (10d), and since the composite tub (20d) is configured closest to the composite drum (30d), the heat supply unit (90) can be seated and positioned in the composite tub (20d).

[0202] The heat supply unit (90) may include a composite supply unit (90d) that is seated and positioned on the upper part of the composite tub (20d). By doing so, interference or collision with the configuration of the drainage unit (60) positioned on the lower part of the composite tub (20d) can be prevented.

[0203] The above composite supply unit (90d) may include a composite duct (91d) that is installed along the front and rear directions of the composite tub (20d) and circulates air inside the composite tub (20d), an evaporator (92d) that is housed in the composite duct (91d) and cools the air to condense moisture, a condenser (93d) that is positioned downstream of the evaporator and heats the air, a compressor (94d) that supplies a refrigerant to heat the air to the condenser (93d), an expansion valve that expands and cools the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (93d), and a circulation fan (96d) that is positioned inside the circulation duct (91d) and provides power to circulate the air.

[0204] Meanwhile, since the tub (20) is positioned in the composite supply unit (90d), the water collection unit and the water storage tank can be omitted. That is, water condensed inside the composite duct (91d) can be collected in the tub (20) and discharged to the drainage unit (60).

[0205] Consequently, the above-mentioned composite device (4) is configured such that the washing machine (1) and the dryer (2) are integrated, and can be equipped to perform both a washing course and a drying course.

[0206] The composite device (4) of the present invention may include an integrated control unit in which the washing control unit and the drying control unit are integrated. The integrated control unit may be embedded in the control panel (100), or it may be separated from the control panel (100) and placed inside the cabinet (10).

[0207] The above composite panel (100d) can be switched to either a washing mode that receives a command to perform a washing course or displays the status of a washing course, or a drying mode that receives a command to perform a drying course or displays the status of a drying course.

[0208] In addition, if there is a mini-device described below, it may receive a command to execute the mini-device or switch to a mini-mode that displays the status of the mini-device.

[0209] Figure 10 illustrates an example of the structure of a composite panel.

[0210] The above composite panel (100d) must implement a washing mode for performing a washing course, a drying mode for performing a drying course, and a mini mode for performing a mini device on a single panel. Accordingly, it is preferable that the above composite panel (100d) be equipped entirely as a touch panel with physical buttons and the like omitted, so that the washing mode, drying mode, and mini mode are selectively displayed.

[0211] The above composite panel (100d) may be provided entirely in the form of a screen or a touch panel.

[0212] The above composite panel (100d) may be provided in an elliptical or track shape in which the width is longer than the height, and a display part (150) may be provided in the central square part.

[0213] A power supply unit (110) and an execution unit (120) may be disposed on one side of the above-mentioned display unit (150), and the power supply unit (110) and the execution unit (120) may be provided as a touch area capable of touch input, so that they light up when touch input is possible and turn off when touch input is not possible.

[0214] The above display unit (150) may be configured to display weight information and status information regarding the selected course and options. Furthermore, the above display unit (150) may be configured as a touch panel to perform the roles of a course input unit (130) and an option selection unit (140).

[0215] A course selection section (130) for selecting a course can be displayed on the above display section (150), and the currently selected course (C1) can be displayed large, and the courses that can be changed (C2, C3) can be displayed small on the left, right, etc.

[0216] The above display unit (150) may further include a status display unit (153) that displays the status of the clothing processing device. The status display unit (153) may display one or more of the internal water level status, internal temperature status, lock status, sound transmission status, and course progress status in the form of an icon.

[0217] The above option selection unit (140) may be positioned outside the course selection unit (130) or the area where the course is displayed. The above option selection unit (140) may be positioned below and spaced apart from the status display unit (153).

[0218] When the above option selection unit (140) is input, options that can be selected or adjusted may be displayed on the above display unit (150). During this process, the course selection unit (130) and the display of the course (C) may disappear.

[0219] FIG. 11 illustrates the clothing processing apparatus of the present invention equipped as a mini device.

[0220] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a mini device (5). The mini device may be provided with a smaller height and volume than the washing machine (1) and dryer (2) or the combined device (4).

[0221] The above mini-device is an auxiliary clothing processing device and may be provided to be additionally installed in the washing machine (1), dryer (2), and combined device (4). Of course, the above mini-device (5) may be provided independently.

[0222] When the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped with a mini device (5), the cabinet (10) may include a mini cabinet (10b) having a height lower than the width in the left-right direction and the length height in the front-back direction.

[0223] The above mini cabinet (10e) is provided with a low height so that it can be placed under the washing machine (1), dryer (2), and combined device (4).

[0224] Of course, the mini device (5) may be placed on top of the washing machine (1), dryer (2), and combined device (4), but for convenience of explanation, the following description is based on the mini device (5) being placed on the bottom of the washing machine (1), dryer (2), and combined device (4) or placed independently.

[0225] The above mini cabinet (10e) may be provided with an opening at the front.

[0226] The above mini device (5) may further include a drawer (80) that is provided to be inserted and removed through the opening in the mini cabinet (10e).

[0227] The drawer (80) may include a drawer body (82) that accommodates a tub or a rotating drum that accommodates water inside, a drawer panel (81) that is positioned in front of the drawer body (81) to open and close the opening, and a rail (83) that allows the drawer body (82) to be pulled in and out of the mini cabinet (10e).

[0228] The drawer body (82) may be provided in the shape of a case with an open top and may further include a mini door (29) for opening or closing a tub and a drum inside.

[0229] The above mini device (5) is equipped with a drawer (80) so that even if there is another clothing processing device or appliance on top, it can be prevented from being interfered with.

[0230] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of the internal structure when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a mini-device.

[0231] The above mini device (5) may include a mini tub (20e) that holds water inside a drawer (80) and a mini drum (30e) that is rotatably provided in the mini tub and can hold clothing.

[0232] The above mini tub (20e) and the above mini drum (30e) may be provided with a height smaller than the diameter, and an inlet for introducing clothing may be formed at the top.

[0233] The above mini door (29) is connected to the upper part of the above mini tub (20e) to prevent water or clothing inside the above mini tub (20e) from leaking out unintentionally.

[0234] The above driving unit (40) may be positioned at the bottom of the mini tub (20e) and configured to rotate the mini drum (30e).

[0235] The above driving unit (40) may include a mini stator (41e) coupled to the lower part of the mini tub (20d) to generate a rotating magnetic field, a mini rotor (42e) that rotates by the mini stator (41e), and a mini rotating shaft (43e) that rotates by the mini rotor and is coupled to the lower part of the mini drum (30e).

[0236] The above water supply unit (80) may include a mini water supply valve (51e) coupled to a mini cabinet (10e), a mini water supply pipe (52e) extending from the mini water supply valve (51e) to a drawer to supply water, and a mini box (53e) that guides the water supplied from the mini water supply pipe (52e) to a tub.

[0237] The above mini water supply pipe (52e) may be provided with a structure that extends forward by the length that the drawer (80) is drawn out of the mini cabinet (10e). The above mini box (53e) may be provided to store detergent.

[0238] The above drainage section (80) may include a mini discharge pipe (61e) for discharging water from the mini tub (20e), a mini pump (62e) coupled to the mini discharge pipe (61e) to provide power for discharging water, and a mini drain pipe (63e) extending from the mini pump (62e) to the outside of the mini cabinet (10e).

[0239] The above mini drain pipe (63e) may be provided with a structure that extends forward by the length that the drawer (80) is drawn out of the mini cabinet (10e).

[0240] The above support member (70) may include a mini suspension (70d) connecting the inner surface of the drawer (80) and the outer surface of the mini tub (20e).

[0241] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a control panel when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a mini-device.

[0242] The above control panel (100) may include a mini panel (100e) installed in the drawer (80) to control the mini device (5).

[0243] The above minipanel (100e) may be provided with a display unit (150) in the center, and a power unit (110) and an execution unit (120) may be arranged on the left and right sides of the display unit (150).

[0244] Between the power supply unit (110) and the display unit (150), a course selection unit (130) for selecting a course is provided, and between the display unit (150) and the execution unit (120), an option selection unit (140) for selecting an option may be arranged.

[0245] The above display unit (150) is equipped with a main display unit (151) that displays weight information or the status of a selected course, and auxiliary display units (152) that display the type of course selected in the course selection unit (130) and the type of option selected in the option selection unit (140) may be arranged on both sides of the main display unit (151).

[0246] The main display unit (151) may be provided as a liquid crystal, a light bulb, or a screen, and the auxiliary display unit (152) may be provided as a liquid crystal, a light bulb, or a screen.

[0247] FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment in which the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a top-load type washing machine.

[0248] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a washing machine (1), and the washing machine (1) may be equipped as a top-load type washing machine.

[0249] When the washing machine (1) is provided as a top-load type, most of its components may be configured to correspond to the components of the washing machine (1) shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3.

[0250] In the following, to avoid redundant explanations, the focus will be on the differences from the washing machine shown in FIGS. 2 and FIG. 3.

[0251] When the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a top-load type washing machine, an opening is provided at the top of the cabinet (10), and the washing door (11) is rotatably coupled to the top of the cabinet (10). The control panel (100) is positioned in front of the washing door (11) and can be positioned at the top of the cabinet (10).

[0252] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a detection unit (11) that detects whether the laundry door (11) has opened or closed the opening, and a locking unit (12) that fixes the state in which the laundry door (11) has closed the opening.

[0253] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of the internal structure when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a top-load type washing machine.

[0254] A top-load type washing machine can also similarly include a tub (20), a drum (30), a drive unit (40), a water supply unit (50), and a drainage unit (60).

[0255] The above tub (20) and drum (30) are provided in a cylindrical shape, and an input port may be positioned at the top.

[0256] Unlike the mini device, the tub (20) and the drum (30) may be provided with a height that is longer than the diameter or width.

[0257] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a pulsator (35) that rotates independently of the drum (30) at the bottom of the drum (30).

[0258] The pulsator (35) may rotate together with the drum (30), but may also be configured to rotate separately from the drum (30). As a result, the clothing may be agitated or a water flow may be formed inside the drum (30).

[0259] The above driving unit (40) may further include a clutch unit (44) that determines whether the pulsator (35) rotates independently of the drum (30).

[0260] The clutch portion (44) may be configured to determine whether to transmit power rotating on the rotating shaft (43) to both the pulsator (35) and the drum (30), or to transmit it to only one of the pulsator (35) and the drum (30).

[0261] The above-mentioned rotating shaft (43) is coupled to the above-mentioned clutch part (44), and the above-mentioned clutch part (44) may be equipped with a separate drive shaft (45) that transmits power from the above-mentioned rotating shaft (43).

[0262] The drive shaft (45) is coupled to the pulsator (35), and the housing of the clutch part (44) can be coupled to the drum (30).

[0263] As a result, the pulsator (35) and the drum (30) are combined with different configurations to selectively receive power from the drive unit (40).

[0264] The control panel (100) of the present invention controls the clutch part (44) to rotate the pulsator (35) independently of the drum (30) during the washing and rinsing process, and to rotate the pulsator (35) and the drum (30) as a single unit during the spin-drying process.

[0265] As a result, during the washing and rinsing process, the clothes can be twisted or agitated by the water flow, thereby enhancing the washing and rinsing performance, and during the spin-drying process, the difference in speed between the pulsator (35) and the drum (30) can prevent the clothes from being frictionally damaged.

[0266] FIG. 16 illustrates an example in which the clothing processing device of the present invention detects the amount of clothing.

[0267] The garment processing device of the present invention detects the amount of garments and performs a washing course and a drying course according to the detected weight. Since heavier garments require more time and energy to wash or dry, the execution times of the washing and drying courses are set longer. As a result, it is prevented from terminating with insufficient washing or drying, thereby ensuring washing and drying performance.

[0268] The clothing processing device of the present invention detects the amount of clothing, and since the lighter the weight of the clothing, the less time and energy is required to wash or dry the clothing, the execution time of the washing course and the drying course is set to be short.

[0269] As a result, it is possible to prevent clothing from being overwashed or overdried, thereby preventing damage to the clothing and saving energy.

[0270] The clothing processing device of the present invention may apply a method of rotating a drum containing clothing to detect the amount of clothing. When the drum (30) is rotated, the amount of clothing can be calculated by measuring the current value or load applied to or generated by the driving unit (40).

[0271] Even if the clothing processing device of the present invention is in a state where clothing is inserted into the drum (30) before power is supplied to the driving unit (40), it can detect the amount of clothing without difficulty through the current value output or generated from the driving unit (40) after power is supplied to the driving unit (40). As a result, the clothing processing device of the present invention can detect the amount of clothing in all situations where the user inputs the power unit (110) to open the door (11) and insert clothing while power is supplied to the driving unit (40), or where the user inputs the power unit (110) after first opening the door (11) and inserting clothing.

[0272] Consequently, although it may take longer to detect the amount of clothing than to detect the weight through a load sensor that directly detects the load of the drum, the clothing processing device of the present invention can detect the amount of clothing in all situations where the door (11) is opened first to insert clothing, and then the user inputs the power supply (110).

[0273] FIG. 16(a) illustrates an example in which the clothing processing device of the present invention detects the amount of clothing. The clothing processing device of the present invention can sufficiently detect the amount of clothing even when the drum is rotated less than one revolution.

[0274] That is, the longer the drum (30) is rotated, the more accurately the weight of the clothing can be detected, but even if the drum (30) is actually rotated only at a certain angle, the amount of clothing can be sufficiently detected by calculating the inertial energy value or current value required to rotate it, and the torque and energy generated during the process of stopping after rotating temporarily.

[0275] Accordingly, the clothing processing device of the present invention may detect the amount of clothing by rotating the drum one or more times, but may also detect the amount of clothing by rotating the drum less than one time.

[0276] The clothing processing device of the present invention can detect the amount of clothing by rotating the drum at an angle of 360 degrees or less. The clothing processing device of the present invention may detect the amount of clothing while rotating the drum at an angle of less than 360 degrees, or may calculate the amount of clothing after the process of the drum stopping after rotation has elapsed. The process of the drum stopping after rotation is a concept that includes the drum rotating in reverse to return to its original position.

[0277] In any case, the clothing processing device of the present invention can completely determine the amount of clothing within 3 seconds after the drum starts to rotate.

[0278] As a result, when the power supply unit (110) of the present invention is input or the door (11) is opened or closed, the detection unit (13) detects this, and the driving unit (40) is driven before the course selection unit (130) or the execution unit (120) is input, so that the drum (30) can be rotated less than one revolution to detect the weight.

[0279] When weight is detected, the control unit can display weight information of the clothing on the display unit (150) before the course selection unit (130) or execution unit (120) is input. As a result, the user can check the displayed weight information, select a suitable course, and execute it.

[0280] The locking unit (12) is controlled to lock the door (11) to the cabinet (10) only when the execution unit (120) is input. Consequently, the clothing processing device of the present invention can detect the amount of clothing by rotating the drum (30) while the door is unlocked, and display the weight information of the clothing on the display unit (150).

[0281] Therefore, the user can check the weight information, open the door (11), and then insert additional clothing in the appropriate direction or withdraw clothing.

[0282] FIG. 16(b) illustrates another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention for detecting the amount of clothing.

[0283] Of course, the clothing processing device of the present invention can detect the amount of clothing by rotating the drum one or more times. However, if a method of detecting the amount of clothing by rotating the drum less than one time is adopted, the rotation angle of the drum needs to be controlled.

[0284] For example, as shown in Fig. 16(a), the drum is rotated to an angle A, which is an angle of 90 degrees or more, and then the drum is stopped. During this process, the control unit can detect the amount of clothing through the drive unit (40).

[0285] However, in the front load type, when the drum (30) rotates to angle A, the arrangement and shape of the clothing may vary, such as the clothing falling to the bottom of the drum (30) or rolling due to gravity, so that current caused by the movement or impact of the clothing is supplied to the drive unit (40), or additional current caused by the movement or impact of the clothing may be generated in the drive unit (40). This may be a factor that reduces the accuracy of the control unit detecting the amount of clothing.

[0286] Accordingly, the clothing processing device of the present invention can detect the amount of clothing by rotating the drum (30) to an angle B, which is less than 90 degrees. As a result, the variation in the arrangement and shape of the clothing can be minimized or completely blocked, and the control unit can accurately detect the amount of clothing through the current value measured by the driving unit (40).

[0287] Preferably, the B angle can be set to less than 45 degrees, and most preferably to less than 15 degrees. As a result, the control unit can accurately detect the amount of clothing by excluding situations where the shape or arrangement of the clothing is variable.

[0288] In addition, since the clothing rotates less, the user may not significantly notice that the drum (30) rotates arbitrarily, and thus may not doubt the performance of the clothing processing device, and the clothing processing device of the present invention can display weight information more quickly.

[0289] FIG. 17 illustrates an example of detecting the amount of clothing when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a top-lot type washing machine.

[0290] Referring to FIG. 17(a), before the washing and drying courses are performed and when the door is unlocked, the clothes placed in the drum (30) may be in a state where they are placed in the pulsator (35).

[0291] The clothing processing device of the present invention can detect the amount of clothing through the driving unit (40) by rotating the drum (30) less than once during this process.

[0292] However, the clothing processing device of the present invention can rotate the drum (30) and the pulsator (35) simultaneously when detecting the amount of clothing. By doing so, damage, twisting, or deformation of the clothing due to friction between the drum (30) and the pulsator (35) can be minimized.

[0293] Referring to FIG. 17(b), in a top-load type washing machine, even if the drum (30) rotates nearly one full revolution, the probability of the shape or arrangement of the clothing changing is lower than in a front-load type washing machine.

[0294] Therefore, when the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped with a top-load type washing machine, in order to detect the amount of clothing, one or more of the drum (30) and the pulsator (35) can be rotated more than 90 degrees and stopped before reaching 360 degrees.

[0295] For example, the clothing processing device of the present invention can detect the amount of clothing by simultaneously rotating the drum (30) and the pulsator (35) at less than 180 degrees and stopping, and then measuring the load of the driving unit (40).

[0296] Consequently, the clothing processing device of the present invention can display weight information of the clothing with the door unlocked before input of the execution unit (120).

[0297] FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment in which the control unit of the clothing processing device of the present invention detects the amount of clothing through a driving unit.

[0298] Referring to FIG. 18(a), the clothing processing device of the present invention can perform a detection step (F) of detecting the amount of clothing inside the drum (30) with the door unlocked before performing the washing process, before performing the rinsing process, and before performing the spin-drying process.

[0299] To this end, the control unit may perform an acceleration step (F1) for starting to rotate the drum (30), a deceleration step (F2) for stopping the drum (30), and a weight detection step (F3) for detecting the amount of clothing contained in the drum through the acceleration measurement value of the drive unit (40) during the acceleration step and the deceleration measurement value of the drive unit during the deceleration step.

[0300] The clothing processing device of the present invention detects an acceleration measurement value measured by or applied to the driving unit (40) while driving the driving unit (40), and detects a deceleration measurement value measured by or applied to the driving unit (40) while decelerating the driving unit (40). Subsequently, the amount of clothing contained in the drum (30) is detected by calculating the acceleration measurement value and the deceleration measurement value.

[0301] The above acceleration measurement value and the above deceleration measurement value may be command values ​​applied to the driving unit (40) while driving the driving unit (40), and may be measurement values ​​measured by the driving unit (40) while driving the driving unit (40).

[0302] Meanwhile, the detection step (F) may further include a preparation step (F0) for checking the position of the drive unit (40) to set a reference value for performing the acceleration step (F1) and the deceleration step (F2). In the preparation step (F0), the drum (30) may be placed in a stationary state.

[0303] The acceleration step (F1) can further accelerate the drum, which is stopped in the preparation step (FO), to the first rpm, and the deceleration step (F2) can decelerate the drum from the first rpm. That is, the acceleration step (F1) and the deceleration step (F2) can be performed continuously. Since the deceleration step (F2) can be performed by lowering the current command value toward the driving unit (40) in the acceleration step (F1) or by cutting off the voltage applied to the driving unit (40), there is no risk of damage to the control unit (P) or circuit.

[0304] At this time, the acceleration measurement value and the deceleration measurement value can be measured between the first rpm and a second rpm lower than the first rpm. That is, the weight can be detected by measuring the current value in the range including the peak of the speed graph. Since the weight is detected by measuring the current value in a continuous situation, this has the advantage of minimizing situations where errors may occur.

[0305] Meanwhile, the acceleration measurement value and the deceleration measurement value can be measured between a second rpm lower than the first rpm and a third rpm higher than the second rpm and lower than the first rpm. That is, although it is not a section including the peak, the weight can be detected by measuring the current value in the same speed range. This has the advantage of improving the accuracy of weight calculation by measuring a stabilized current value, as the speed change is greatest at the peak.

[0306] Meanwhile, the first rpm can be set to a lower rpm than the fixed rpm at which the clothing contained inside the drum (30) attaches to the inner wall of the drum (30). That is, the first rpm can be relatively lower than the rpm applied in the washing, rinsing, and spin-drying cycles.

[0307] The acceleration step (F1) may correspond to a step of rotating the drum, and the deceleration step (F2) may correspond to a step of restoring the drum to its original position. Consequently, the restoration step (D2) may be a step in which the control unit (P) actively applies current to rotate the drive unit (40) in the opposite direction.

[0308] The above weight detection step (F3) may omit the process in which the control unit (P) directly calculates the moment of inertia, or the process of comparing and extracting the moment of inertia with the weight data of the clothing stored in a storage unit connected to the control unit.

[0309] The amount of current applied in the acceleration step (F1) can be defined as the first amount of current, and the amount of current applied in the deceleration step (F2) can be defined as the second amount of current. The control unit (P) can detect the weight through the first amount of current and the second amount of current.

[0310] FIG. 18(b) illustrates another embodiment in which the control unit calculates the amount of clothing.

[0311] The above deceleration step (F2) is not a deceleration step in which current is applied to the driving unit (40) to rotate the drum (30) in the opposite direction, but rather a step in which the power applied to the driving unit (40) is cut off so that the driving unit (40) is restored by the weight of the clothing and decelerates.

[0312] The control unit (P) can detect the back electromotive force generated in the above interruption stage and measure the current value corresponding to the back electromotive force to detect the amount of the clothing.

[0313] The amount of current applied in the acceleration step (F1) can be defined as the first amount of current, and the amount of current applied in the interruption step (F2) can be defined as the third amount of current. The control unit (P) can detect the weight through the first amount of current and the third amount of current.

[0314] FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment in which the clothing processing device of the present invention utilizes a weight sensing method based on the structure and method described above.

[0315] FIG. 19(a) illustrates an embodiment that basically utilizes the aforementioned weight sensing method.

[0316] When the power supply unit (110) of the clothing processing device of the present invention is input, power can be supplied to the water supply unit (50), the driving unit (40), the drainage unit (60), etc., and power can also be supplied to the control unit (P).

[0317] The control unit (P) above may be configured to detect the amount of clothing when power is supplied by inputting the power supply unit (110). For example, the essential condition for detecting the amount of clothing in the clothing processing device of the present invention may be the input of the power supply unit (110).

[0318] Therefore, even if the user opens the door (11) and then puts clothing into the drum (30) and closes the door (11) before inputting the power supply (110), the control unit (P) can immediately detect the amount of clothing.

[0319] The control unit (P) can calculate the estimated time to perform a specific course or option according to the weight of the clothing.

[0320] To this end, the control unit (P) can recognize the estimated time corresponding to the weight of the clothing.

[0321] In addition, the control unit (P) may also have data regarding the amount of detergent required when performing any course or option on the amount of clothing. The control unit (P) can calculate the amount of detergent required when washing the clothing using the course or option.

[0322] For example, the clothing processing device of the present invention may perform a power supply step (A1) that supplies power by inputting the power supply unit (110) of the clothing processing device, and a weight detection step (A2) that detects the amount of clothing contained in the drum (3) when the power supply step (A1) is performed.

[0323] In other words, the clothing processing device of the present invention can detect weight before the execution unit (120) is input, rather than detecting weight only when the execution unit (120) is input.

[0324] When the weight of the clothing is detected in the weight detection step (A2), an information display step (A3) can be performed in which weight information including at least one of the weight of the clothing, the estimated execution time of a course or option for washing the clothing, and the amount of detergent required for the course or option is displayed on the display unit (150).

[0325] In the information display step (A3) above, the execution time corresponding to a preset standard course or standard option corresponding to the weight of the clothing may be displayed.

[0326] The user can check the weight of the clothing displayed in the information display step (A3), the execution time of the preset course or option, compare it with their own schedule, and check the amount of detergent.

[0327] In other words, the clothing processing device of the present invention can input the execution unit (120) by checking information related to weight before the execution unit (120) is input and selecting a desired course and option. That is, if the user is satisfied with the information displayed in the information display step (A3), the user can input the execution unit (120). The control unit (P) can perform an execution input step (A6) that detects the input of the execution unit (120).

[0328] When the above execution input step (A6) is performed, the control unit (P) controls the locking unit (12) to lock the door (11) to the cabinet (10), thereby preventing the door (11) from being opened arbitrarily.

[0329] When the above execution input step (A6) is performed, the control unit (P) can perform one or more of the washing, rinsing, and spin-drying steps according to the setting of the course or option.

[0330] However, after the user confirms at least one of the weight of the clothing, the execution time of a preset course or option, and the amount of detergent in the information display step (A3), a course setting step (A4) may be further performed to select a course and an option through the course selection unit (130) and the option selection unit (140).

[0331] In other words, users can select any course or option, rather than the standard course performed by default.

[0332] For example, the user can check the amount of clothing through the course setting step (A4) and then input one or more of the course selection unit (130) and option selection unit (140), and after checking the execution time associated with the weight, can change the course or option by inputting one or more of the course selection unit (130) and option selection unit (140).

[0333] When the above course setting step (A4) is performed, the control unit (P) can perform a change display step (A5) that recalculates the expected execution time or detergent amount of the changed course or option corresponding to the weight of the clothing and transmits it to the display unit (150).

[0334] In the above change display step (A5), one or more of the expected execution time of the changed course or option and the changed amount of detergent may be displayed on the display unit (150).

[0335] If the user determines that the above-mentioned expected execution time or amount of detergent is appropriate, the user may input the above-mentioned execution unit (120), and if the above-mentioned expected execution time or amount of detergent is not appropriate, the user may re-input one or more of the course selection unit (130) and the option selection unit (140).

[0336] The above control unit (P) can perform an execution input step (A6) that detects the input of the above execution unit (120).

[0337] However, if re-input of one or more of the course selection unit (130) and option selection unit (140) is detected, the course setting step (A4) and the change display step (A5) can be performed again.

[0338] As a result, the clothing processing device of the present invention can complete weight detection before the user selects and performs the final course and option. Furthermore, by rotating the drum less than one revolution and calculating the weight within 3 seconds, information regarding the weight can be provided before inputting one or more of the course selection unit (130) and the option selection unit (140).

[0339] For example, when the power supply unit (110) is input and the display unit (150) is booted, weight detection is already completed, and information corresponding to the weight can be provided to the user.

[0340] Therefore, while checking information regarding weight, the user can check the estimated time of the most suitable course and option at the current time, set the optimal course and option, or dispense the optimal amount of detergent.

[0341] FIG. 19(b) illustrates an extended embodiment of the control method of FIG. 19(a).

[0342] The clothing processing device of the present invention can perform a power input step (A1) that supplies power to one or more of the control unit (P), the driving unit (40), the water supply unit (50), the drainage unit (60), and the control panel (100) when it receives a command from the power supply unit (110).

[0343] When the above power input step (A1) is performed, the clothing processing device can perform a weight detection step (A2) for detecting the amount of the clothing.

[0344] The method of detecting weight in the above weight detection step (A2) is to rotate the drum less than one revolution as described above.

[0345] At this time, the control unit (P) may also perform a clothing detection step (A2-1) to detect whether the clothing is contained in the drum (30). If there is clothing in the drum (30) during the clothing detection step (A2-1), the control method of FIG. 19(a) may be performed.

[0346] However, if the clothing is not contained in the drum (30), the control unit (P) can perform a door opening / closing detection step (A2-2) that waits until the door (11) is opened and closed.

[0347] That is, if the control unit (P) does not detect the amount of the clothing, it may wait until it detects the opening or closing of the door.

[0348] At this time, when the door opening / closing detection step (A2-2) is performed, the control unit (P) can perform the weight detection step (A2) again to additionally detect the amount of clothing.

[0349] Thus, the clothing processing device of the present invention can immediately detect the weight when clothing is contained in the drum (30) before the input of the power supply unit (110). However, when clothing is not contained in the drum (30) before the input of the power supply unit (110), the amount of clothing can be detected by waiting for clothing to be introduced into the drum (30).

[0350] In other words, the clothing processing device of the present invention can, in principle, immediately perform weight detection when power is supplied to the control unit (P) by inputting the power supply unit (110).

[0351] Therefore, when the user first puts clothing into the drum (3) before inputting the power unit (110) and inputs the power unit (110), the control unit (P) can perform weight detection.

[0352] However, if there is no clothing inside the drum (3) before the input of the power supply unit (110), the control unit (P) may wait for the door to open or close to perform weight detection. Of course, whether or not there is clothing can be detected by a weight detection method. At this time, when no weight is detected, the weight may not be displayed on the display unit (150).

[0353] Meanwhile, when the opening or closing of the door (11) is detected after input from the power supply unit (110), the control unit (P) can determine that clothing has been inserted and perform weight detection. Of course, if no weight is detected, the weight may not be displayed on the display unit (150), or information indicating that there is no clothing inside may be displayed.

[0354] If there is a detected weight, the garment processing device of the present invention may display at least one of the weight information of the garment, the execution time of the course and option corresponding to the weight, and the amount of detergent required on the display unit (150).

[0355] Consequently, the clothing processing device of the present invention can detect the amount of clothing before input to the execution unit (120) and transmit information such as the execution time of a course or option, the amount of detergent required, etc., to the user.

[0356] Consequently, detecting the amount of clothing and displaying weight information before input to the above-mentioned execution unit (120) means that the drum (30) rotates and weight information is displayed on the display unit (150) while the door (11) is unlocked.

[0357] FIG. 20 illustrates an embodiment that performs weight detection depending on whether the door is open or closed.

[0358] Referring to FIG. 20(a), the control unit (P) may be configured to detect the amount of clothing when it detects the opening or closing of the door (11). That is, the condition for detecting the amount of clothing may be the opening or closing of the door (11).

[0359] The fact that the door (11) is opened or closed may mean that there is a high probability that clothing has been put into the drum (30). Additionally, the fact that the door (11) is opened or closed may mean that the amount of clothing in the drum (30) has increased or decreased.

[0360] Thus, when the clothing processing device of the present invention detects that the door (11) is opened or closed, it can immediately detect the amount of clothing and provide the user with the weight of the clothing itself, the expected execution time or changed execution time of the course or option, and the amount of detergent required or the amount of detergent changed.

[0361] The clothing processing device of the present invention can perform an opening / closing step (B1) for detecting the opening / closing of a door (11). When the opening / closing of the door (11) is detected in the opening / closing step (B1), the control unit (P) can perform a weight detection step (B2) for detecting the amount of clothing, and can perform an information display step (B3) for displaying one or more of the weight of the clothing, the execution time of a preset course or option, and the amount of detergent required, according to the detected weight.

[0362] In other words, the clothing processing device of the present invention can detect and display the amount of clothing within 3 seconds in the aforementioned manner when the opening and closing of the door (11) is detected, even before the course selection unit (130) and the execution unit (120) are input.

[0363] After the information display step (B3), the control unit (P) can perform the execution input step (B6) by detecting whether the user inputs the execution unit (120), and can perform the course setting step (B4) and the change display step (B5) by detecting whether the user changes the course or option.

[0364] The information display step (B3), the course setting step (B4), the change display step (B5), and the execution input step (B6) may be the same as those in the previously described embodiment.

[0365] FIG. 20(b) illustrates an extended embodiment of FIG. 20(a).

[0366] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further perform a power input step (B0) that detects whether power is input prior to the opening / closing step (B1).

[0367] This is because the power input step (B0) must be performed so that power is supplied to the control unit (P), allowing the control unit (P) to detect whether the door (11) is open or closed.

[0368] Accordingly, after the power input step (B0) is performed, the control unit (p) can perform the weight detection step (B2) when it detects that the door (11) is opened and closed.

[0369] When the opening or closing of the door (11) is detected in the above opening / closing step (B1), the control unit (P) can perform a weight detection step (B2) to detect the amount of the clothing, and can perform an information display step (B3) to display one or more of the weight of the clothing, the execution time of a preset course or option, and the amount of detergent required according to the detected weight.

[0370] After the information display step (B3), the control unit (P) can perform the execution input step (B6) by detecting whether the user inputs the execution unit (120), and can perform the course setting step (B4) and the change display step (B5) by detecting whether the user changes the course or option.

[0371] The information display step (B3), the course setting step (B4), the change display step (B5), and the execution input step (B6) may be the same as those in the previously described embodiment.

[0372] Thus, when the garment processing device of the present invention detects that the door (11) is opened or closed while the power is supplied to the garment processing device, it can immediately detect the amount of the garment and provide the user with the weight of the garment itself, the expected execution time or changed execution time of the course or option, and the amount of detergent required or the amount of detergent changed.

[0373] FIG. 20(c) illustrates another extended embodiment of FIG. 20(a).

[0374] The clothing processing device of the present invention may be configured so that the history of the door (11) being opened and closed is stored in the storage unit (P2). That is, even if the power supply unit (110) is not input, power is supplied to the control panel (P) through standby power, and the history of the door (11) being opened and closed can be stored.

[0375] Accordingly, the clothing processing device of the present invention can perform a history storage step (B11) of storing the opening and closing history of the door (11) in the control unit (P) when the door (11) is opened and closed even before the power supply unit (110) is input.

[0376] Subsequently, when the power input step (B0) is performed in which the power supply unit (110) of the present invention is input and power is supplied to the control unit (P), the control unit (P) can perform a weight detection step (B2).

[0377] When the opening or closing of the door (11) is detected in the above opening / closing step (B1), the control unit (P) can perform a weight detection step (B2) to detect the amount of the clothing, and can perform an information display step (B3) to display one or more of the weight of the clothing, the execution time of a preset course or option, and the amount of detergent required according to the detected weight.

[0378] After the information display step (B3), the control unit (P) can perform the execution input step (B6) by detecting whether the user inputs the execution unit (120), and can perform the course setting step (B4) and the change display step (B5) by detecting whether the user changes the course or option.

[0379] The information display step (B3), the course setting step (B4), the change display step (B5), and the execution input step (B6) may be the same as those in the previously described embodiment.

[0380] Thus, even if the user opens the door (11) and puts clothing into the drum (30) in advance before the power supply unit (110) is input, the clothing processing device of the present invention can detect the amount of clothing by checking whether the door (11) is open or closed when the power supply unit (110) is input.

[0381] Accordingly, the clothing processing device of the present invention can help the user select the optimal course and option or amount of detergent before inputting the execution unit (120).

[0382] Consequently, the control unit (P) can be set to detect the amount of clothing when the power unit (110) is input or when the detection unit (13) detects that the door has closed the opening.

[0383] The control unit (P) may detect weight only when both the power supply unit (110) and the door (11) are opened or closed, or it may be configured to detect weight when either the input of the power supply unit (110) or the opening or closing of the door (11) is performed.

[0384] Meanwhile, in the clothing processing device of the present invention, the locking unit (12) can fix the door (11) to the cabinet (1) only when the execution unit (120) is input and the course and option are started. Therefore, when weight detection is performed before the input of the execution unit (120), the door (11) may be in a state where it is not locked by the locking unit (12).

[0385] Accordingly, the user can open the door (11) to add or remove clothing while performing the weight detection or even after the weight detection is completed.

[0386] When the opening or closing of the door (11) is additionally detected, the clothing processing device of the present invention can detect whether there is a change in the weight of the clothing by re-performing weight detection, and can display information related to the changed weight on the display unit (150).

[0387] That is, detecting the weight by detecting the opening and closing of the aforementioned door may include detecting the weight first and then re-detecting the weight when the opening and closing of the door is additionally detected.

[0388] FIG. 21 illustrates another embodiment of determining whether the clothing processing device of the present invention additionally performs weight detection.

[0389] As described above, the clothing processing device of the present invention performs weight detection once again when the door (11) reopens the cabinet (1) or when the power supply unit (110) is re-input and the power supply to the control unit (P) is cut off and then supplied.

[0390] However, if the time between the opening and closing of the door (11) is much shorter than the time limit (T) required for the clothing to be fed into the drum (3), there is less chance that the internal state of the drum (3) will change. Additionally, if the time between the power supply unit (110) being re-input and the power being re-supplied to the control unit (P) is much shorter than the time limit (T) for the clothing to be fed into the drum, there is less chance that the internal state of the drum (3) will change.

[0391] Accordingly, the clothing processing device of the present invention may not perform additional weight detection if the re-closing time of the door (11) or the re-input time of the power supply unit (110) is shorter than the time limit (T).

[0392] Thus, if the user accidentally opens and closes the door (11) and closes it quickly, or accidentally inputs the power supply (110) and then inputs it again, the clothing processing device of the present invention can block weight detection to prevent unnecessary energy consumption.

[0393] The control unit (P) may be configured to detect the time interval during which the power supply unit (110) is input and re-input, and may also be configured to detect the time interval during which the door (11) opens and closes the opening (111) through the detection unit (13) or the locking unit (12).

[0394] The above time limit (T) may correspond to, for example, less than 1 second.

[0395] Meanwhile, the above-mentioned sensing unit (13) is provided to be positioned so as to face or be adjacent to the door (11) in the cabinet (1), and may be equipped with a Hall sensor or reed switch that detects signals such as a magnetic field generated from the door (11), and may also detect the opening angle of the door (11) by detecting the strength of the magnetic field.

[0396] For example, if the above-mentioned sensing unit (13) does not detect the magnetic field, it can determine that the door (11) has opened the opening (111) by more than the minimum opening for clothing to be inserted, and if it detects the magnetic field, it can determine that the door (11) has opened the opening (111) by less than the insertion opening.

[0397] In addition, a sensing part (13) may be provided in a hinge part that rotatably connects the door (11) to the cabinet (1) to detect the opening angle of the door (11).

[0398] Thus, the clothing processing device of the present invention may not perform weight detection if the door (11) opens and closes the opening (111) within the insertion interval, and determines that the state inside the drum (3) has not changed.

[0399] The above insertion interval can be set to less than 10 centimeters, etc.

[0400] Specifically, the clothing processing device of the present invention can perform a power input step (M1) in which a power command to supply power to a control unit (P) is input as an input from a power supply unit (110). Afterwards, a door detection step (M2) can be performed to detect whether the door (11) has closed the opening (111).

[0401] When the door (11) closes the opening (111), a weight detection step (M3) can be performed by rotating the drum less than one revolution to detect the weight.

[0402] The weight detection step (M3) detects weight through a current value applied or output when the drum is rotated less than one revolution, and the rotation angle of the drum can be set to an angle less than or equal to the angle at which the clothing is separated from the inner wall of the drum or the arrangement of the clothing is varied.

[0403] In the weight detection step (M3) above, the control unit (P) can calculate the weight within 2 seconds after the drum is rotated, and an information display step (M4) can be performed within 3 seconds in which information related to the detected weight is displayed on the display unit (150).

[0404] Afterward, the control unit (P) can perform a state detection step (M5) to detect whether the door (11) opens and closes the opening (111) or whether the power unit (110) is re-entered before the execution unit (120) is input.

[0405] In the state detection step (L5), if the door (11) reopens the opening (111) or if the power supply unit (110) is input again and the power to the control unit (P) is cut off and then supplied again, the control unit (P) can perform a limit judgment step (M6) to determine whether the time the door (11) is reopened or the time the power supply unit (110) is repeatedly input is within a time limit.

[0406] If, in the limit judgment step (M6), the time the door (11) is closed or the time the power supply unit (110) is repeatedly input is longer than the limit time, the weight detection step (M3) is performed again, and the information display step (M4) is performed again so that the existing information can be corrected to information corresponding to the re-detected weight.

[0407] Meanwhile, if the time at which the door (11) is reopened or the time at which the power supply unit (110) is repeatedly input is less than the limit time (T) in the limit judgment step (M6), the control unit (P) may perform a neglect step (M7) in which weight detection is no longer performed even if the door is reopened or the power supply unit is re-input.

[0408] In the above limit judgment step (M6), it can be determined whether the degree to which the door (11) has opened the opening (111), the opening interval, or the opening angle is smaller than the insertion interval at which the clothing can be inserted.

[0409] For example, a sensing part (13) provided in the cabinet (1) may be provided to determine the degree of opening of the door (11) by calculating the degree of a sensing value detected by a Hall sensor, etc., and a hinge part provided in the door (11) may be provided to detect the opening angle.

[0410] While the above ignore step (M7) is being performed or while the information display step (M4) is being performed, the execution unit (120) may be input to receive an execution command to execute the course and option selected by the course selection unit (130), and an execution input step (M8) may be performed.

[0411] When the above execution input step (M8) is performed, the locking part (12) may perform a door locking step (M9) to lock the door (11) to the cabinet (1) so as to block the opening (111) from opening.

[0412] The following describes how the control method of the clothing processing device of the present invention is implemented.

[0413] FIG. 22 illustrates an embodiment in which the control method of the clothing processing device of the present invention is implemented in a washing panel or a drying panel.

[0414] Since the washing panel (100a) and the drying panel (100b) have the same structure, an embodiment applied to the washing panel (100a) will be described to avoid redundancy.

[0415] Referring to FIG. 22(a), when a user inputs the power supply unit (100), power is supplied to the main display unit (150) located inside the course display unit (130).

[0416] The main display unit (150) above displays boot information (G1) indicating that the washing machine (1) is being prepared.

[0417] The above boot information may include one or more of a welcome message such as “Hello” or an icon, pictogram, or hologram indicating that booting is being performed.

[0418] While the above boot information is being displayed, the clothing processing device of the present invention can immediately control the driving unit (40) to rotate the drum (30) and detect the amount of clothing. To quickly detect the amount of clothing, the clothing processing device of the present invention can rotate the drum (30) less than one revolution.

[0419] At this time, since the above-mentioned execution unit (120) is in a state before input, the locking unit (12) can maintain the state of unlocking the door.

[0420] When the booting of the washing panel (100a) is complete, the control unit may have already completed detecting the weight of the clothing.

[0421] Referring to FIG. 22(b), one or more of the weight information (I) and the selected course (C) may be displayed on the display unit (150). The selected course (C) may be a course that is automatically selected when the washing panel (100a) boots up, even if the user does not select it using the course selection unit (130). For example, the automatically selected course (C) may be a standard course.

[0422] The above weight information (I) may include one or more of the following: information regarding the weight of the clothing itself, an estimated time (I2) for processing the clothing of the said weight into the corresponding course, and a required amount of detergent (I3) for processing the clothing of the said weight into the corresponding course.

[0423] The above display unit (150) can display the weight information (I) even if the user does not input a separate command after inputting the power unit (110). As a result, the user can recognize the amount of detergent required to process the inputted clothing and the estimated execution time of the course for processing the clothing.

[0424] In this process, the user can change the course by rotating the course selection unit (130). At this time, the execution time (I2) can be changed and displayed as the estimated execution time corresponding to the changed course.

[0425] Referring to FIG. 22(c), the user can input an execution unit (120) when confirming one or more of the weight information (I) and the selected course (C). It is highly likely that the user is already aware of the estimated execution time (I2) at the time of inputting the execution unit (120).

[0426] Therefore, when the user inputs the above-mentioned execution unit (120), they can accurately plan to return to the washing machine (1) after the time when the course is completed has elapsed. The user can leave the washing machine (1) immediately after inputting the execution unit (120) and carry out their personal schedule.

[0427] Referring to FIG. 22(d), when the above-mentioned execution unit (120) is input, the locking unit (12) can fix the door (11) to the cabinet (10) to prevent the opening from being opened arbitrarily.

[0428] The above display unit (150) can display status information in which the course is performed.

[0429] The above status information may include one or more of a notification message indicating that the course is being performed and the remaining time.

[0430] The clothing processing device of the present invention can perform a selected course when the execution unit (120) is input. For example, in the case of a washing course, water supply may start immediately, or water supply may start after the drum rotates and agitates the clothing.

[0431] If it is detected that the door (11) is not closed, the course can be performed after the door (11) is closed.

[0432] FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment in which the control method of the clothing processing device of the present invention is implemented on a common panel.

[0433] Referring to FIG. 23(a), when one or more of the washing power unit (110) and the drying power unit (110) are input to the clothing processing device of the present invention, boot information (G1) can be displayed on one or more of the washing display unit (150a) and the drying display unit (150b).

[0434] The above boot information may include one or more of a welcome message such as “Hello” or an icon, pictogram, or hologram indicating that booting is being performed.

[0435] While the above boot information is being displayed, the clothing processing device of the present invention can detect the amount of clothing by controlling the driving unit (40) of the device to which the power supply unit (110) of the washing machine (1) and dryer (2) is input, thereby rotating the drum (30). In order to quickly detect the amount of clothing, the clothing processing device of the present invention can rotate the drum (30) of the device to which the power supply unit (110) of the washing machine (1) and dryer (2) is input less than one rotation.

[0436] At this time, since the above-mentioned execution unit (120) is in a state before input, the locking unit (12) can maintain the state of unlocking the door.

[0437] When the power supply unit (110) of the washing machine (1) and dryer (2) is fully booted, the control unit may have already completed detecting the weight of the clothing.

[0438] Referring to FIG. 23(b), one or more of the weight information (I) and the selected course (C) may be displayed on the display unit (150) of the device to which the corresponding power unit (110) of the washing machine (1) and dryer (2) is input. The selected course (C) may be a course that is automatically selected when the control panel (100) boots up, even if the user does not select it using the course selection unit (130). For example, the automatically selected course (C) may be a standard course.

[0439] The above weight information (I) may include one or more of the following: information regarding the weight of the clothing itself, an estimated time (I2) for processing the clothing of the said weight into the corresponding course, and a required amount of detergent (I3) for processing the clothing of the said weight into the corresponding course.

[0440] If the amount of clothing in the drum is not detected, the display unit (150) may indicate that there is no clothing. In this case, the control unit may re-detect the amount of clothing in the manner described above after waiting for the door (11) to open or close.

[0441] The display unit (150) of the device to which the corresponding power unit (110) is input among the washing machine (1) and dryer (2) can display the weight information (I) even if the user inputs the power unit (110) and does not input a separate command. As a result, the user can recognize the amount of detergent required to process the inserted clothing and the estimated execution time of the course for processing the clothing.

[0442] In this process, the user can change the course by pressing the course selection unit (130). At this time, the execution time (I2) can be changed and displayed as the estimated execution time corresponding to the changed course.

[0443] Referring to FIG. 23(c), the user can input an execution unit (120) when confirming one or more of the weight information (I) and the selected course (C). It is highly likely that the user is already aware of the estimated execution time (I2) at the time of inputting the execution unit (120).

[0444] Therefore, when the user inputs the above-mentioned execution unit (120), they can accurately plan to return to the wash tower (3) after the time elapsed, after recognizing the time when the course is completed. The user can leave the wash tower (3) immediately after inputting the execution unit (120) and carry out their personal schedule.

[0445] Referring to FIG. 23(d), when the above-mentioned execution unit (120) is input, the locking unit (12) of the device to which the corresponding power unit (110) of the washing machine (1) and dryer (2) is input can fix the door (11) to the cabinet (10) to prevent the opening from being opened arbitrarily.

[0446] The display unit (150) of the device to which the corresponding power unit (110) of the washing machine (1) and dryer (2) is input can display status information in which the course is being performed.

[0447] The above status information may include one or more of a notification message indicating that the course is being performed and the remaining time.

[0448] The clothing processing device of the present invention can perform a selected course when the execution unit (120) is input. For example, in the case of a washing course, water supply may start immediately, or water supply may start after the drum rotates to agitate the clothing. In the case of a drying course, a blower fan may rotate or a compressor may be driven.

[0449] If it is detected that the door (11) is not closed, the course can be performed after the door (11) is closed.

[0450] FIG. 24 illustrates an embodiment in which the control method of the clothing processing device of the invention is implemented on an integrated panel, and FIG. 25 illustrates an embodiment in which the control method of the clothing processing device of the invention is implemented on a mini panel.

[0451] Since the above integrated panel and mini panel differ only in structure and retain the configuration of the control panel (100), the aforementioned control method can be applied as is. Therefore, the explanation is omitted with reference to the illustrated drawings.

[0452] FIGS. 26 to 29 illustrate different examples of the state of the display unit after detecting the amount of clothing.

[0453] Referring to FIG. 26, the clothing processing device of the present invention detects the amount of clothing introduced into the drum (30), and the display unit (150) can display the detected amount of clothing in correspondence with the amount of detergent indicated on the detergent used by the user.

[0454] FIG. 26(a) illustrates an example in which the display unit (150) displays a small amount step (W1) indicating the smallest amount of detergent, showing a state in which "Small" is displayed.

[0455] FIG. 26(b) illustrates an example in which the display unit (150) displays a weight step (W2) that displays a larger amount of detergent than the small amount step (W1), showing a state in which "Medium" is displayed.

[0456] FIG. 26(c) illustrates an example in which the display unit (150) displays a large volume step (W3) that displays a larger amount of detergent than the weight step (W2), showing a state in which "Large" is displayed.

[0457] FIG. 26(d) illustrates an example in which the display unit (150) displays an extra-large step (W4) that displays a larger amount of detergent than the large step (W3), showing a state in which "Extra large" is displayed.

[0458] The amount of detergent displayed on the above display unit (150) is not limited to "Small," "Medium," "Large," and "Extra large," and may be displayed in a manner indicating an appropriate amount of detergent provided by the detergent supplier, etc. or a standardized amount.

[0459] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 27, the clothing processing device of the present invention can immediately detect the amount of clothing when the power supply unit (110) is input, and the display unit (150) can display the execution time (estimated time) required to complete the currently selected course based on the amount of clothing detected by the method described above.

[0460] Meanwhile, apart from the display of the above execution time (estimated time), the user may find it difficult to know the appropriate amount of detergent to be added to process the amount of clothing currently added.

[0461] Accordingly, the display unit (150) of the clothing processing device of the present invention can display the amount of detected clothing in correspondence with the amount of detergent indicated on the detergent.

[0462] In other words, when a company that produces and supplies detergent determines the amount of detergent to be added according to the amount of clothing, the display unit (150) can display the amount of clothing so as to correspond to the amount of detergent indicated on the detergent provided by the company.

[0463] The above amount of detergent may correspond to any one of the detergent stages, including a weight stage (W2), a bulk stage (W3) indicating a larger amount of detergent than the weight stage (W2), and a super bulk stage (W4) indicating a larger amount of detergent than the bulk stage.

[0464] Additionally, the detergent step may further include a small amount step (W1) indicating a smaller amount of detergent than the weight step (W2).

[0465] For example, the above detergent amount may correspond to any one of the detergent stages including “Medium,” “Large” indicating a larger amount of detergent than the Medium, and “Extra large” indicating a larger amount of detergent than the Large.

[0466] Alternatively, the above detergent amount may correspond to any one of the detergent stages including “Small,” “Medium” indicating a larger amount of detergent than Small, “Large” indicating a larger amount of detergent than Medium, and “Extra Large” indicating a larger amount of detergent than Large.

[0467] In this way, by displaying the amount of clothing detected by the above-described detection method in correspondence with the amount of detergent indicated on the detergent used by the user, the user can intuitively check the appropriate amount of detergent to be added to wash the clothing they have added.

[0468] Additionally, the display unit (150) is configured to display an icon (N) regarding the amount of the clothing, and the icon (N) may be configured to be displayed together with the amount of the clothing. Thus, the user can check information regarding the amount of the clothing more intuitively.

[0469] For example, the above icon (N) may be an icon (N) in the shape of laundry in a laundry basket, but is not necessarily limited to this, and may be an icon (N) of any other shape as long as it can intuitively represent the amount of clothing.

[0470] As a result, the user can confirm that it takes 1 hour and 20 minutes of execution time (estimated time) to complete the washing process for the currently inserted clothes, and can confirm that adding the amount of detergent corresponding to the “Medium” level indicated on the detergent is the appropriate amount of detergent.

[0471] However, the user can enable (On) or disable (Off) the display of the appropriate detergent amount as described above. That is, when the display of the appropriate detergent amount is enabled (On), the amount of clothing inserted, the icon (N), and the execution time (estimated time) are all displayed along with the currently selected course; conversely, when the display of the appropriate detergent amount is disabled (Off), the amount of clothing inserted and the icon are not displayed, and only the currently selected course and the execution time (estimated time) are displayed.

[0472] Referring to FIG. 28, the user can change the course or option by inputting one or more of the course selection unit (130) and the option selection unit (140). For example, the user can change the standard course to a small amount rapid course by inputting one or more of the course selection unit (130) and the option selection unit (140).

[0473] The above-mentioned small load rapid course is a course designed to quickly process a small amount of clothing. It may correspond to a course that finishes the washing process faster and has higher energy efficiency by using less water, drum rotation speed, and rotation duration than the standard course.

[0474] When a user changes the standard course to the small amount rapid course by inputting one or more of the course selection unit (130) and the option selection unit (140), the display of the display unit (150) displays a state indicating that the small amount rapid course has been selected, and guidance on the small amount rapid course may be displayed.

[0475] The above instructions may include the execution time (estimated time) required for the small-quantity rapid course to be performed and completed based on the amount of clothing currently input, and the execution time (estimated time) may be provided to be displayed simultaneously with the amount of clothing.

[0476] FIG. 27 illustrates a case where only the course is changed by simply inputting one or more of the course selection unit (130) and the option selection unit (140) without changing the amount of clothing input by the user, and thus only the execution time (estimated time) can be changed without changing the amount of clothing displayed.

[0477] Meanwhile, the clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a door (11) coupled to the cabinet (10) to open and close the input port, and the driving unit (40) may be configured to rotate the drum (30) while the door (11) is closed after the power supply unit (110) is input.

[0478] At this time, the driving unit (40) is configured to rotate the drum (30) again when the door (11) is opened and closed again, and the display unit (150) may be configured to display the amount of the clothing again after the driving unit (40) rotates the drum (30) again.

[0479] If the above door (11) is opened and closed again, it is highly likely that a change in the amount of clothing has occurred, such as when a user adds additional clothing, so the above drum (30) can be rotated again to detect and display the amount of clothing currently inside the above drum (30).

[0480] Additionally, the clothing processing device of the present invention further includes a locking part (12) that locks the door (11) to the cabinet (10), and the driving part (40) may be configured to rotate the drum (30) when the locking part (12) has unlocked the door (11).

[0481] The locking part (12) may be configured to lock the door (132) to the cabinet (1) when the execution part (P47) is input.

[0482] Referring to FIG. 29, the clothing processing device of the present invention displays the amount of detected clothing in correspondence with the amount of detergent indicated on the detergent, wherein the detergent may include at least one of a first detergent for removing dirt from the clothing and a second detergent for softening the clothing.

[0483] In other words, the first detergent may include a cleaning component for removing dirt, stains, and impurities on the clothing, and the second detergent may include a component for softening the fibers of the clothing, suppressing static electricity generation on the clothing after washing, and imparting a fragrance to the fibers.

[0484] FIG. 29 illustrates an example in which the display unit (150) guides the amount of the second detergent when an amount of clothing corresponding to the weight step (W2) is introduced into the drum (30), and the amount of the first detergent and the amount of the second detergent can be distinguished by displaying a figure of the second detergent together with the icon (N) and the weight step (W2).

[0485] However, it is not necessarily limited to the above method, and any other method that can distinguish the amount of detergent of the first detergent and the amount of detergent of the second detergent may be used.

[0486] The above display unit (150) may be configured to display the amount of clothing after the driving unit (40) rotates the drum, and after displaying the amount of clothing corresponding to the amount of detergent indicated on the first detergent, display it corresponding to the amount of detergent indicated on the second detergent.

[0487] The present invention may be modified and implemented in various forms, and its scope of rights is not limited to the embodiments described above. Therefore, if a modified embodiment includes the components of the claims of the present invention, it should be considered to fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cabinet equipped with an opening for inserting clothing; A tub provided inside the cabinet and storing water inside; A drum provided inside the above tub for accommodating the above clothing; A driving unit connected to the above tub to rotate the drum; and A control panel comprising a power supply unit that receives a power command for supplying power, an execution unit that receives an execution command for executing a course for processing the clothing, and a display unit that displays the amount of the clothing; The above driving unit The above power supply is configured to rotate the drum after input, and The above display part A clothing processing device characterized by the above-described driving unit displaying the amount of clothing after rotating the drum, wherein the amount of clothing is displayed in correspondence with the amount of detergent indicated on the detergent.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above amount of detergent A clothing processing device characterized by having any one of a detergent step including a weight step, a bulk step indicating a larger amount than the weight step, and a super bulk step indicating a larger amount than the bulk step.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above detergent step A clothing processing device characterized by further including a small amount step indicating a smaller amount than the above weight step.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above display part A clothing processing device characterized by being equipped to simultaneously display the amount of clothing and the execution time of the course.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above display unit is configured to display an icon regarding the amount of the clothing, and A clothing processing device characterized by the above icon being displayed together with the amount of the above clothing.

6. In Paragraph 1, A clothing processing device characterized by the fact that the amount of the above clothing is displayed before the above-mentioned execution unit is input.

7. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a door coupled to the cabinet and opening and closing the input port; The above driving unit A clothing processing device characterized by being configured to rotate the drum while the door is closed after the power supply unit is input.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above driving unit It is configured to rotate the drum again when the above door is opened or closed again, and The above display part A clothing processing device characterized by the above-mentioned driving unit being configured to display the amount of clothing again after rotating the drum again.

9. In Paragraph 7, It further includes a locking part for locking the above door to the above cabinet, and The above driving unit A clothing processing device characterized by the above-mentioned locking part being configured to rotate the drum while the door is unlocked.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above locking part A clothing processing device characterized by being configured to lock the door to the cabinet when the above-mentioned execution unit is input.

11. In Paragraph 4, It further includes a course selection unit rotatably provided in the cabinet above and receiving a selection command for selecting or changing the course, and The above display part A clothing processing device characterized by changing and displaying the execution time to the execution time of the changed course when the above course is changed.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above display part A clothing processing device characterized by displaying the amount of clothing as is without changing it even if the above course is changed.

13. In Paragraph 1, A garment processing device characterized by comprising at least one of a first detergent for removing dirt from the garment and a second detergent for softening the garment.

14. In Paragraph 13, The above display part A clothing processing device characterized by displaying the amount of the above clothing in correspondence with the amount of detergent indicated on the first detergent, and then displaying it in correspondence with the amount of detergent indicated on the second detergent.

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