Clothes-treating apparatus and method for controlling same

Abstract

This clothes-treating apparatus may comprise: a drum for accommodating laundry; a drying device for supplying hot air to the drum; a sensor for measuring at least one of the temperature and humidity of the air discharged from the drum; and a control unit for performing a spinning process for rotating the drum at a predetermined speed and a drying process for controlling the drying device to supply hot air into the drum, wherein the control unit determines an operation algorithm of the drying process on the basis of the difference between a first weight of laundry sensed before the start of the spinning process and a second weight of the laundry sensed after the end of the spinning process, and the difference between a first measurement value measured by the sensor at a first time point of the drying process and a second measurement value measured by the sensor at a second time point of the drying process.

Description

Clothing processing device and control method of clothing processing device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a garment processing apparatus including a drying device and a method for controlling the garment processing apparatus.

[0002] A garment processing device is a device for processing and / or managing garments. A garment processing device may include a washing machine and a dryer. The washing machine may include a combined washing machine and dryer.

[0003] A washing machine with a drying function is a device that utilizes the driving force of a drive motor to agitate laundry, water, and detergent placed inside a tub, thereby enabling washing through mutual friction.

[0004] The processes performed by the washing machine combined with a dryer may include a washing process that washes the laundry by supplying detergent and water to a tub containing the laundry and rotating the drum, a rinsing process that rinses the laundry by supplying water to the tub and rotating the drum, and a spin-drying process that removes water from the laundry by draining water from the tub and rotating the drum.

[0005] The process performed by the combined dryer and washing machine may include a drying process in which heat generated from a drying device is blown into a receiving space containing the laundry to dry the laundry. To perform the drying process, the combined dryer and washing machine may include a drying device.

[0006] The present disclosure provides a processing device and a method for controlling a clothing processing device that can provide an operation algorithm for a drying process optimized according to the drying characteristics of the laundry.

[0007] The present disclosure provides a garment processing device and a control method for the garment processing device that can provide an optimized drying process operation algorithm using the weight of the laundry.

[0008] The present disclosure provides a garment processing device and a control method for the garment processing device that can provide an optimized drying process operation algorithm using at least one of a temperature sensor or a humidity sensor.

[0009] The technical problems to be solved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs from the description below.

[0010] A garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a drum for receiving laundry; a drying device for supplying hot air to the drum; a sensor for measuring at least one of the temperature or humidity of air discharged from the drum; and a control unit for performing a dehydration step of rotating the drum at a predetermined speed and a drying step of controlling the drying device to supply hot air to the interior of the drum.

[0011] The control unit can determine an operation algorithm for the drying process based on the difference between the first weight of the laundry detected before the start of the spin-drying process and the second weight of the laundry detected after the end of the spin-drying process, and the difference between the first measurement value measured by the sensor at the first point in the drying process and the second measurement value measured by the sensor at the second point in the drying process.

[0012] The control unit may determine the operation algorithm of the drying process as a first operation algorithm based on the fact that the difference between the first weight and the second weight is greater than or equal to a reference weight and the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value is greater than or equal to a reference measurement value, and may determine the operation algorithm of the drying process as a second operation algorithm different from the first operation algorithm based on the fact that the difference between the first weight and the second weight is less than the reference weight or the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value is less than the reference measurement value.

[0013] The above operation algorithm includes a termination condition for the drying process, the first operation algorithm includes a time condition as a termination condition for the drying process, and the second operation algorithm may include at least one of a humidity condition, a temperature condition, or a weight condition as a termination condition for the drying process.

[0014] The end time of the drying process according to the first operation algorithm may be earlier than the end time of the drying process according to the second operation algorithm.

[0015] The above operation algorithm includes a target temperature of the hot air, the first operation algorithm includes a first temperature as the target temperature of the hot air, the second operation algorithm includes a second temperature as the target temperature of the hot air, and the first temperature may be higher than the second temperature.

[0016] The control unit above can determine the operation algorithm of the drying process as the second operation algorithm regardless of the difference between the first weight and the second weight or the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value, if the second weight is greater than or equal to a predetermined weight.

[0017] The sensor includes a temperature sensor, the first measurement value includes a first temperature value measured by the temperature sensor at the first time point, the second measurement value includes a second temperature value measured by the temperature sensor at the second time point, and the control unit can determine an operation algorithm for the drying process based on the difference between the first weight and the second weight and the difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value.

[0018] The sensor includes a humidity sensor, the first measurement value includes a first humidity value measured by the sensor at the first time point, the second measurement value includes a second humidity value measured by the sensor at the second time point, and the control unit can determine an operation algorithm for the drying process based on the difference between the first weight and the second weight and the difference between the first humidity value and the second humidity value.

[0019] The sensor includes a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor, the first measurement value includes a first temperature value measured by the temperature sensor at the first time point and a first humidity value measured by the humidity sensor, the second measurement value includes a second temperature value measured by the temperature sensor at the second time point and a second humidity value measured by the humidity sensor, and the control unit can determine an operation algorithm for the drying process based on the difference between the first weight and the second weight, the difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value, and the difference between the first humidity value and the second humidity value.

[0020] The first point in time above is the start point of the drying process, and the second point in time above may be a point in time after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed from the first point in time above.

[0021] A control method for a garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a drum for receiving laundry, a drying device for supplying hot air to the drum, and a sensor for measuring at least one of the temperature or humidity of air discharged from the drum; performing a dehydration step by rotating the drum at a predetermined speed; performing a drying step by controlling the drying device to supply hot air to the interior of the drum; and determining an operation algorithm for the drying step based on the difference between a first weight of the laundry detected before the start of the dehydration step and a second weight of the laundry detected after the end of the dehydration step, and the difference between a first measurement value measured by the sensor at a first point in time of the drying step and a second measurement value measured by the sensor at a second point in time of the drying step.

[0022] Determining the operation algorithm of the above drying process may include determining the operation algorithm of the above drying process as a first operation algorithm based on the fact that the difference between the first weight and the second weight is greater than or equal to a reference weight and the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value is greater than or equal to a reference measurement value; and determining the operation algorithm of the above drying process as a second operation algorithm different from the first operation algorithm based on the fact that the difference between the first weight and the second weight is less than the reference weight or the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value is less than the reference measurement value.

[0023] The above operation algorithm includes a termination condition for the drying process, the first operation algorithm includes a time condition as a termination condition for the drying process, and the second operation algorithm may include at least one of a humidity condition, a temperature condition, or a weight condition as a termination condition for the drying process.

[0024] The end time of the drying process according to the first operation algorithm may be earlier than the end time of the drying process according to the second operation algorithm.

[0025] The above operation algorithm includes a target temperature of the hot air, the first operation algorithm includes a first temperature as the target temperature of the hot air, the second operation algorithm includes a second temperature as the target temperature of the hot air, and the first temperature may be higher than the second temperature.

[0026] Determining the operation algorithm of the above drying process may further include determining the operation algorithm of the above drying process as the second operation algorithm regardless of the difference between the first weight and the second weight or the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value if the second weight is greater than or equal to a predetermined weight.

[0027] The sensor includes a temperature sensor, and includes a first temperature value measured by the temperature sensor at the first time point, and the second measurement value includes a second temperature value measured by the temperature sensor at the second time point, and determining the operation algorithm of the drying process may include determining the operation algorithm of the drying process based on the difference between the first weight and the second weight and the difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value.

[0028] The sensor includes a humidity sensor, the first measurement value includes a first humidity value measured by the humidity sensor at the first time point, the second measurement value includes a second humidity value measured by the humidity sensor at the second time point, and determining the operation algorithm of the drying process may include determining the operation algorithm of the drying process based on the difference between the first weight and the second weight and the difference between the first humidity value and the second humidity value.

[0029] The above sensor includes a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor, the first measurement value includes a first temperature value measured by the temperature sensor at the first time point and a first humidity value measured by the humidity sensor, the second measurement value includes a second temperature value measured by the temperature sensor at the second time point and a second humidity value measured by the humidity sensor, and determining the operation algorithm of the drying process may include determining the operation algorithm of the drying process based on the difference between the first weight and the second weight, the difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value, and the difference between the first humidity value and the second humidity value.

[0030] The first point in time above is the start point of the drying process, and the second point in time above may be a point in time after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed from the first point in time above.

[0031] According to the present disclosure, by providing an operation algorithm for a drying process optimized according to the drying characteristics of the laundry, drying efficiency can be improved and power consumed in the drying process can be reduced.

[0032] According to the present disclosure, user convenience can be improved by providing an operation algorithm for a drying process optimized according to the drying characteristics of the laundry.

[0033] According to the present disclosure, an operation algorithm for a drying process optimized according to the drying characteristics of the laundry is provided, thereby minimizing damage to the laundry caused by the drying process.

[0034] The effects intended to be achieved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0035] FIG. 1 illustrates a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 3 illustrates a part of the configuration disposed inside a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 4 illustrates a configuration disposed inside a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 3.

[0039] FIG. 5 illustrates a disassembled view of a part of a drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configurations of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of steps performed by a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining a method of performing a drying process according to an operation algorithm of a drying process of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0046] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0047] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0048] In this document, each of the phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0049] The term “and / or” includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0050] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0051] Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0052] Terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0053] When it is said that a component is "connected," "combined," "supported," or "in contact" with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0054] When it is said that a component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0055] Washing machines according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying processes. A washing machine is an example of a clothing processing device, and a clothing processing device is a concept that encompasses a device for washing clothing (clothing to be washed, clothing to be dried), a device for drying clothing, and a device capable of performing both washing and drying of clothing.

[0056] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include a top-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet for loading or unloading laundry is provided to face upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet is provided to face forward. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with loading methods other than top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines.

[0057] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water flow generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry. A front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine capable of drying laundry contained inside the drum. The washing machine capable of drying may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensation device for removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum. As an example, the washing machine capable of drying may include a heat pump device. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with washing methods other than those described above.

[0058] A washing machine according to various embodiments may include a housing that accommodates various components inside. The housing may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry input opening formed on one side.

[0059] The washing machine may include a door for opening and closing a laundry input. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing by means of a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be made transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing is visible.

[0060] The washing machine may include a tub provided inside the housing to store water. The tub is provided in a roughly cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be positioned inside the housing such that the tub opening corresponds to the laundry inlet.

[0061] The tub can be connected to the housing by a damper. The damper can absorb vibrations generated during the rotation of the drum and attenuate vibrations transmitted to the housing.

[0062] The washing machine may include a drum designed to accommodate laundry.

[0063] The drum may be positioned inside the tub such that a drum opening provided on one side corresponds to a laundry inlet and a tub opening. Laundry may pass through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening in sequence to be received inside the drum or withdrawn from the drum.

[0064] The drum can rotate inside the tub and perform respective actions according to the washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying cycles. A plurality of holes are formed in the cylindrical wall of the drum so that water stored in the tub can flow into the interior of the drum or out of the exterior of the drum.

[0065] The washing machine may include a drive unit configured to rotate the drum. The drive unit may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting the driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may pass through the tub and be connected to the drum.

[0066] The drive unit can rotate the drum in the forward or reverse direction to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying or drying cycles.

[0067] The washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to the tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve provided in the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe may extend from the external water source to a detergent dispenser and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub through the detergent dispenser. Water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent dispenser.

[0068] The water supply valve can open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valve can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0069] The washing machine may include a detergent dispenser configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent dispenser may include a manual detergent dispenser in which the user must add the detergent to be used for each wash cycle, and an automatic detergent dispenser that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically dispenses a predetermined amount during a wash cycle. The detergent dispenser may include a detergent container for storing detergent. The detergent dispenser may be configured to supply detergent into the tub during the water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe may be mixed with the detergent by passing through the detergent dispenser. The water mixed with the detergent may be supplied into the tub. The term "detergent" is used as a collective term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent container may be divided into a pre-wash detergent storage area, a main wash detergent storage area, a fabric softener storage area, and a bleach storage area.

[0070] The washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water contained in a tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the tub to the outside of the housing, a drain valve provided in the drain pipe to open and close the drain pipe, and a pump provided on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water from the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0071] The washing machine may include a user interface disposed on one side of the housing. The user interface may provide a user interface for the user and the washing machine to interact. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0072] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal. At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. At least one input interface may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0073] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user. For example, at least one output interface can convey information related to the washing course, the washing machine's operating time, and washing settings, rinse settings, and spin settings to the user. Information regarding the operation of the washing machine may be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0074] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with an external device via wired and / or wireless means.

[0075] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0076] The communication module can transmit data to external devices (e.g., servers, user devices, and / or home appliances) or receive data from external devices. For example, the communication module can establish communication with servers and / or user devices and / or home appliances and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0077] To this end, the communication module may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a LAN (local area network) communication module, or a power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules may communicate with an external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a long-range communication network such as a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0078] A short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, Bluetooth communication modules, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication modules, Near Field Communication modules, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication modules, Zigbee communication modules, infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication modules, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication modules, UWB (ultrawideband) communication modules, Ant+ communication modules, microwave (uWave) communication modules, etc.

[0079] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0080] In one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices, such as a server, a user device, or other home appliances, through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine or user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The control unit can control various components of the washing machine (e.g., drive motor, water supply valve). The control unit can control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one operation, including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, according to user input. For example, the control unit can control the drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of the drum or control the water supply valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0081] The control unit may include hardware such as a CPU or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the washing machine, at least one memory for storing data in the form of a program, and at least one processor for performing the aforementioned operation using data stored in at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0082] Hereinafter, a garment processing device according to various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the following description, a washing machine combined with a dryer is described as an example of a garment processing device, but the concept of the present disclosure is not limited to a washing machine combined with a dryer and can be applied to various devices for processing and / or managing garments.

[0083] The terms "front," "rear," "left," and "right" used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0084] For example, the X-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction, the Y-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction, and the Z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction.

[0085] FIG. 1 illustrates a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a part of a configuration disposed inside a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 illustrates a configuration disposed inside a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 illustrates a disassembled part of a drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a clothing processing device (1) according to various embodiments may include a housing (10) that accommodates various components inside. The housing (10) may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry inlet (11) formed on one side. The laundry inlet (11) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0087] The garment processing device (1) may include a laundry door (17) for opening and closing a laundry input port (11). The laundry door (17) may be rotatably mounted to the housing (10) by means of a hinge. At least one part of the laundry door (17) may be made transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing (10) is visible. For example, the laundry door (17) may include tempered glass.

[0088] The clothing processing device (1) may include a lower door (18) configured to allow access to a lower detergent supply device (60). The clothing processing device (1) may include an upper door (19) configured to allow access to an upper detergent supply device (50) and a filter (95).

[0089] The garment processing device (1) may include a tub (20) provided inside the housing (10) to store water. The tub (20) is provided in a roughly cylindrical shape with a tub opening (21) formed on one side, and may be placed inside the housing (10) such that the tub opening (21) corresponds to the laundry inlet (11). The tub opening (21) may be provided to face approximately forward. A laundry door (17) may open or close the tub opening (21).

[0090] The tub (20) can be connected to the housing (10) by a damper (25). The damper (25) can absorb vibrations generated when the drum (30) rotates and attenuate vibrations transmitted to the housing (10).

[0091] The garment processing device (1) may include a drum (30) provided to receive laundry. At least one lifter (33) may be provided inside the drum (30) to perform washing by raising and dropping the laundry.

[0092] The drum (30) may be positioned inside the tub (20) such that a drum opening (31) provided on one side corresponds to a laundry inlet (11) and a tub opening (21). Laundry may pass through the laundry inlet (11), the tub opening (21), and the drum opening (31) in sequence to be received inside the drum (30) or withdrawn from the drum (30). The drum opening (31) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0093] The drum (30) can rotate inside the tub (20) and perform each operation according to washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying. A plurality of through holes (32) are formed in the cylindrical wall of the drum (30) so that water stored in the tub (20) can flow into the interior of the drum (30) or flow out of the drum (30).

[0094] The garment processing device (1) may include a driving device (36) configured to rotate a drum (30). The driving device (36) may include a driving motor (36a) and a rotating shaft for transmitting the driving force generated by the driving motor (36a) to the drum (30). The rotating shaft may pass through the tub (20) and be connected to the drum (30).

[0095] The driving device (36) can rotate the drum (30) in the forward or reverse direction to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying or drying process.

[0096] The clothing processing device (1) may include a water supply device (40). The water supply device (40) may include water supply valves (41, 42) that can be connected to an external water source. For example, the water supply valves (41, 42) may include a first water supply valve (41) for supplying hot water and a second water supply valve (42) for supplying cold water. The first water supply valve (41) may be referred to as a hot water valve. The second water supply valve (42) may be referred to as a cold water valve.

[0097] The water supply device (40) may include water supply valves (41, 42) and water supply pipes (43, 44). The water supply pipes (43, 44) may be made of a flexible material hose, plastic pipe, or metal pipe. The water supply pipes (43, 44) may be connected to the water supply valves (41, 42). For example, the water supply pipes (43, 44) may include a first water supply pipe (43) connected to the first water supply valve (41) and a second water supply pipe (44) connected to the second water supply valve (42). The first water supply pipe (43) may be referred to as a hot water pipe. The second water supply pipe (44) may be referred to as a cold water pipe.

[0098] At least one of the water supply pipes (43, 44) can guide water from the water supply valve (41, 42) to the tub (20). At least one of the water supply pipes (43, 44) can extend from the water supply valve (42) to the tub (20). Water can be supplied to the lower detergent supply device (60) through the tub (20). Water can also be supplied to the lower detergent supply device (60) without passing through the tub (20).

[0099] The water supply valves (41, 42) can open or close the water supply pipes (43, 44). The water supply valves (41, 42) can allow or block water from being supplied to the tub (20) from an external water source. For example, the water supply valves (41, 42) may include a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0100] The garment processing device (1) may include a detergent supply device (50, 60) configured to supply detergent to a tub (20). The detergent supply device (50, 60) may include an upper detergent supply device (50) and a lower detergent supply device (60). The term "detergent" may be used as a general term encompassing pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc.

[0101] The upper detergent supply device (50) may be located on the upper part of the tub (20). The upper detergent supply device (50) may be located above the tub (20) in the vertical direction. The upper detergent supply device (50) may include a manual detergent supply device in which the user must add the detergent to be used each time laundry is performed, or an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically dispenses a predetermined amount of detergent during laundry. The upper detergent supply device (50) may be connected to the tub (20) through a detergent connecting pipe (51). For example, the upper detergent supply device (50) may be configured to supply solid laundry detergent and / or fabric softener, etc., to the tub (20). However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above-described example.

[0102] The detergent connector (51) may be provided in a U-shape. The detergent connector (51) may be provided as a flexible hose, plastic tube, or metal tube. One end of the detergent connector (51) may be connected to an upper detergent supply device (50), and the other end of the detergent connector (51) may be connected to a tub (20). In the vertical direction relative to the ground, the one end and the other end of the detergent connector (51) may be located at a higher position than the bending part of the detergent connector (51). Therefore, water may accumulate at the bending part of the detergent connector (51). The water accumulated at the bending part of the detergent connector (51) can prevent moisture inside the tub (20) from being discharged to the outside through the upper detergent supply device (50).

[0103] The lower detergent supply device (60) may be located at the bottom of the tub (20). The lower detergent supply device (60) may be located below the tub (20) in the vertical direction. The lower detergent supply device (60) may include a manual detergent supply device in which the user must add the detergent to be used each time laundry is performed, or an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically dispenses a predetermined amount of detergent during laundry. For example, the lower detergent supply device (60) may be provided to supply liquid laundry detergent and / or fabric softener, etc., to the tub (20). The type of detergent is not limited to the above examples.

[0104] The clothing processing device (1) may include a drainage device (70) configured to discharge water contained in the tub (20) to the outside. The drainage device (70) may include a drainage pump (71) for discharging water from the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10).

[0105] The clothing processing device (1) may include a circulation pump (76) for circulating water from the tub (20) back to the tub (20).

[0106] In one embodiment, the circulation pump (76) can circulate water from the tub (20) back to the tub (20) via the lower detergent supply device (60).

[0107] The circulation pump (76) may be directly connected to the tub (20) through the tub connecting pipe (72), or it may be connected to the tub (20) via the tub connecting pipe (72) and the lower detergent supply device (60).

[0108] The circulation pump (76) may include a circulation path for discharging water supplied from the tub (20) back to the tub (20) through the tub connecting pipe (72). The circulation path may be formed by a circulation pipe (77).

[0109] The circulation pipe (77) can guide water pumped by the circulation pump (76) to the upper side of the tub (20).

[0110] The upper side of the tub (20) may refer to a position having a predetermined height from the bottom surface of the tub (20).

[0111] The circulation pipe (77) can guide water pumped by the circulation pump (76) into the interior of the drum (30). That is, the circulation path can guide water stored in the tub (20) into the interior of the drum (30).

[0112] A circulation valve (77v) may be placed in the circulation path formed by the circulation pipe (77). The circulation valve (77v) can open and close the circulation path formed by the circulation pipe (77).

[0113] When the circulation pump (76) is operated while the circulation valve (77v) is open, water stored at the bottom of the tub (20) moves to the circulation path through the tub connecting pipe (72) and, as a result, can fall into the interior of the drum (30).

[0114] The circulation pump (76) can be operated during the washing and / or rinsing cycle, etc. When the circulation pump (76) is operated during the washing and / or rinsing cycle, etc., water falls on the laundry contained in the drum (30), thereby increasing the washing efficiency and / or rinsing efficiency.

[0115] In the present disclosure, 'tube' may be referred to as 'guide' in the sense that it guides fluid, or may be replaced with terms such as 'hose'.

[0116] The drainage device (70) can be connected to the tub (20) through the tub connecting pipe (72). The drainage device (70) can discharge water from the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10) through the drain pipe (73).

[0117] The clothing processing device (1) may include a user interface (100) disposed on one side of the housing (10). The user interface (100) may provide a user interface for the user and the clothing processing device (1) to interact. The user interface may include at least one input interface (101) and at least one output interface (102).

[0118] For example, at least one input interface (101) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal. At least one input interface (101) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. At least one input interface (101) may include a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone, etc.

[0119] At least one output interface (102) can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the garment processing device (1) to the user. For example, at least one output interface (102) can convey information related to the washing course, the operating time of the garment processing device (1), and washing settings / rinse settings / spin settings to the user. Information regarding the operation of the garment processing device (1) can be output via a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface (102) may include a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0120] The garment processing device (1) may include a drying device (80) for drying laundry contained inside a drum (30). The drying device (80) may be configured to heat air and supply it into the interior of a tub (20). The drying device (80) may be configured to dry and heat the air discharged from the tub (20), and to circulate the dried and heated air into the interior of the tub (20) to dry the clothes inside the drum (30). According to various embodiments, the drying device (80) may be placed on the upper part of the tub (20).

[0121] The drying device (80) may include a drying case (81). The drying case (81) may include a drying base (81a) and a drying cover (81b) which is coupled to the drying base (81a) and arranged to form a channel through which air can move. The drying cover (81b) may cover the open upper surface of the drying base (81a).

[0122] Referring to FIG. 5, for example, the drying device (80) may include a rear cover (81c) that can be attached to the rear side of the drying base (81a). The rear cover (81c) may form at least a portion of the rear surface of the drying device (80). A water supply valve (41, 42) may be mounted on the rear cover (81c).

[0123] The drying device (80) may be provided in a heat pump manner. The drying device (80) may include a fan (87a), a compressor (91), a condenser (92), an evaporator (93), an expansion valve, and a refrigerant pipe (94) through which refrigerant circulates. The compressor (91), condenser (92), evaporator (93), and expansion valve constituting the heat pump may be placed in the drying case (81). Additionally, the drying device (80) may further include a cooling fan (91a) for cooling the compressor (91). As an example, the drying device (80) may be formed as a single module.

[0124] The compressor (91), condenser (92), evaporator (93), expansion valve, and refrigerant pipe (94) through which the refrigerant circulates of the drying device (80) can be referred to as a heat pump.

[0125] The heat pump can dry and / or heat the air supplied into the interior of the tub (20).

[0126] The fan (87a) can blow air into the interior of the tub (20).

[0127] That is, the heat pump can heat the air supplied into the interior of the tub (20) by the fan (87a).

[0128] The compressor (91) compresses the refrigerant, and the compressed high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant can move to the condenser (92). The condenser (92) can cool the refrigerant and heat the surrounding air. The heated air flows into the interior of the drum (30) to dry the clothes.

[0129] The refrigerant expanded by passing through the expansion valve can absorb heat in the evaporator (93) and cool the surrounding air. That is, the evaporator (93) can cool the high-temperature, high-humidity air that has passed through the inside of the drum (30) to remove moisture. The air from which moisture has been removed passes through the condenser (92) and can be heated again by exchanging heat with the refrigerant passing through the condenser (92). That is, the condenser (92) can heat the air that has passed through the evaporator (93). The condenser (92) and the evaporator (93) correspond to heat exchangers. The condenser (92) may be referred to as the 'first heat exchanger'. The evaporator (93) may be referred to as the 'second heat exchanger'.

[0130] For example, the drying device (80) may further include a drying heater (99). The drying heater (99) can increase the drying efficiency of the drying device (80). The heat pump components of the drying device (80) may be replaced with the drying heater (99).

[0131] The drying heater (99) can heat the air flowing into the interior of the drying device (80). The drying heater (99) can be placed in the heating path (86). The drying heater (99) can be placed downstream of the condenser (92) along the flow of air passing through the drying device (80). Additionally, the drying heater (99) can be provided in a relatively small size to minimize flow path resistance. For example, the drying heater (99) can be a sheath heater.

[0132] A drying device (80) according to various embodiments may be positioned above a tub (20). An inlet passage (85) may be formed in the drying device (80) to receive air discharged from the tub (20). A heating passage (86) may be formed in the drying device (80) for heat exchange of air entering the drying device (80) through the inlet passage (85). A supply passage (87) may be formed in the drying device (80) to supply heat-exchanged air passing through the heating passage (86) to the tub (20).

[0133] The inlet passage (85) can be provided so that air passing through the interior of the tub (20) can flow into the drying device (80). The inlet passage (85) can be located on the upper side of the tub (20). The inlet passage (85) can be connected to the exhaust passage (P) formed at the rear of the tub (20).

[0134] The drying device (80) may include an inlet guide (84) connected to the tub (20). The inlet guide (84) may guide air discharged from the tub (20) into an inlet passage (85). The inlet passage (85) may be connected to an exhaust passage (P) formed in the tub (20) through the inlet guide (84). Air passing through the exhaust passage (P) may be introduced into the inlet passage (85) of the drying device (80) through the inlet guide (84).

[0135] Referring to FIG. 2, the clothing processing device (1) may include a sensor (150) for detecting the temperature or humidity of air guided from an inlet passage (85). For example, air discharged from a tub (20) or a drum (30) is guided to an inlet passage (85) through an inlet guide (84), and the sensor (150) may detect the temperature or humidity of the air entering the inlet passage (85).

[0136] The position of the sensor (150) may be placed at the bottom of the inlet passage (85) as shown in FIG. 2. However, the position of the sensor (150) according to the present disclosure is not limited to that shown in FIG. 2 and may be placed according to various embodiments. For example, the sensor (150) may be placed between the tub duct (28) or the duct cover (29), or on the inlet guide (84). That is, the sensor (150) may be placed at various locations capable of detecting the temperature or humidity of the air discharged from the tub (20) or the drum (30).

[0137] Referring again to FIGS. 2 to 5, a filter (95) may be provided in the inlet passage (85) to filter foreign substances, such as lint, contained in the air entering from the tub (20) through the exhaust passage (P). After the air entering the inlet passage (85) passes through the filter (95), it may move to the heating passage (86). The filter (95) may be located on the passage where the air entering the drying device (80) moves to the evaporator (93) and the condenser (92).

[0138] A heat exchanger (92, 93) may be placed in the heating channel (86). The heat exchanger (92, 93) may include a condenser (92) and an evaporator (93). Since the air entering the heating channel (86) has passed through the interior of the tub (20), it may be humid. The humid air may be cooled in the evaporator (93) placed in the heating channel (86) to remove moisture. The air from which moisture has been removed in the evaporator (93) may pass through the condenser (92) and be heated again.

[0139] The drying device (80) may include a nozzle device (96) for cleaning the heat exchangers (92, 93). The nozzle device (96) may be provided in the heating path (86). The nozzle device (96) may receive water from the water supply device (40) and spray water toward the heat exchangers (92, 93). The water sprayed from the nozzle device (96) may clean one side of the heat exchangers (92, 93).

[0140] Meanwhile, the clothing processing device (1) may include a drain line (97) for guiding water discharged from the drying device (80) to the tub (20). The drain line (97) may be provided as a hose made of a flexible material, a plastic pipe, or a metal pipe. The drain line (97) may guide condensate generated in the heat exchangers (92, 93) of the drying device (80) to the outside of the drying device (80). The drain line (97) may guide water sprayed by the nozzle device (96) for cleaning the heat exchangers (92, 93) to the outside of the drying device (80).

[0141] The nozzle device (96) may be configured to clean the heat exchangers (92, 93). The nozzle device (96) may be configured to clean the air inlet portion of the heat exchangers (92, 93). The nozzle device (96) may be configured to clean at least a portion of the evaporator (93). The nozzle device (96) may be configured to clean a portion of the evaporator (93) into which air passing through the filter (95) enters. The nozzle device (96) may be configured to clean a portion of the evaporator (93) that is contaminated by air passing through the evaporator (93) and exchanging heat with the evaporator (93). The nozzle device (96) may be located adjacent to the air inlet portion of the evaporator (93).

[0142] The drain line (97) can be connected to the drainage device (70). The drain line (97) can be connected to the drainage pump (71). Water discharged from the drying device (80) can flow to the drainage device (70) along the drain line (97). Water flowing into the drainage device (70) through the drain line (97) can be guided to the tub (20). Condensate flowing into the tub (20) can be discharged to the outside of the clothing processing device (1) by the operation of the drainage pump (71).

[0143] The supply channel (87) may be configured to supply heated air back into the interior of the tub (20) by passing through the condenser (92). The supply channel (87) may be connected to the heating channel (86) and may extend downward to discharge the heated air toward the opening of the tub (20).

[0144] A fan (87a) may be provided in the supply channel (87) to flow air into the interior of the tub (20). That is, the fan (87a) may be provided to supply air to the laundry inside the drum (30). For example, the fan (87a) may include a sirocco fan.

[0145] The inlet path (85), the heating path (86), and the supply path (87) can circulate air into the interior of the tub (20) and the drying device (80).

[0146] The clothing processing device (1) can be configured so that air discharged from the tub (20) passes sequentially through the inlet path (85), the heating path (86), and the supply path (87) of the drying device (80) located above the tub (20), and then is supplied into the interior of the tub (20).

[0147] The heated air from the drying device (80) can be supplied into the interior of the drum (30). To ensure that the heated air supplied into the interior of the drum (30) comes into contact with the laundry, the tub exhaust port (27) may be positioned opposite the air inlet (26) through which the heated air from the drying device (80) is supplied to the tub (20). To increase the distance and / or time the heated air flows inside the drum (30) so that it can come into contact with the laundry more, the tub exhaust port (27) may be positioned opposite the air inlet (26) through which the heated air from the drying device (80) is supplied to the tub (20). The supply path (87) for supplying the heated air into the interior of the drum (30) and the tub exhaust port (27) may be spaced apart. By increasing the contact area between the heated air and the laundry, drying efficiency can be improved.

[0148] The air inlet (26) and the tub exhaust port (27) can be positioned to maximize the use of heated air provided from the drying device (80). For example, the air inlet (26) may be located adjacent to the front of the tub (20), and the tub exhaust port (27) may be located adjacent to the rear of the tub (20).

[0149] Referring to FIG. 3, a washing machine according to one embodiment may include a diaphragm (22) connecting the tub opening (21) of a tub (20) and the laundry inlet (11) of a housing (10). The diaphragm (22) can connect the laundry inlet (11) and the tub opening (21). The diaphragm (22) can prevent laundry introduced through the laundry inlet (11) from falling between the housing (10) and the tub (20), and can function to connect the front end of the tub (20) and the housing (10) regardless of vibrations occurring during the washing process. To this end, the diaphragm (22) may be formed of an elastic material. For example, the diaphragm (22) may include a plastic material such as rubber or TPE (Thermo Plastic Elastomer).

[0150] In a washing machine according to one embodiment, the diaphragm (22) may include a duct portion (22a) arranged to be connected to a supply duct (87b) forming a supply passage (87). The duct portion (22a) may extend upward from the side of the diaphragm (22), which has a cylindrical shape with both ends open. A passage may be formed inside the duct portion (22a) to allow air to flow.

[0151] The duct section (22a) may be formed adjacent to the top of the diaphragm (22). The duct section (22a) may be formed integrally with the diaphragm (22) and may have the same material. Alternatively, the duct section (22a) may be provided separately from the diaphragm (22) and connected to the diaphragm (22). Additionally, the duct section (22a) may be provided separately from the diaphragm (22) and the tub (20) and connected to the tub (20). The duct section (22a) may also be formed integrally with the tub (20). An air inlet (26) may be formed at one end of the duct section (22a).

[0152] A clothing processing device (1) according to various embodiments may further include an exhaust passage (P) for moving air discharged from inside a tub (20) to a drying device (80). The exhaust passage (P) may be provided so that air discharged from a tub exhaust port (27) flows into an inlet passage (85) of the drying device (80). The exhaust passage (P) may be provided to discharge humid air that has passed through the tub (20). For example, the exhaust passage (P) may be provided at the rear of the tub (20).

[0153] The air inside the tub (20) can be discharged into the tub duct (28) through the tub exhaust port (27) formed at the rear of the tub (20). The air discharged into the tub duct (28) can flow along the exhaust path (P) and be supplied to the drying device (80).

[0154] A garment processing device (1) according to various embodiments may include a tub duct (28) for forming at least a portion of an exhaust passage (P). For example, the tub duct (28) may be formed integrally with the tub (20). For example, the tub (20) may include the tub duct (28). The tub duct (28) may be arranged to surround the tub exhaust port (27).

[0155] A garment processing device (1) according to various embodiments may include a duct cover (29) for forming at least a portion of an exhaust passage (P). The duct cover (29) may be provided to cover the open rear of a tub duct (28). For example, a tub (20) may include a duct cover (29). The duct cover (29) may form at least a portion of the exhaust passage (P) through which air discharged through the tub exhaust port (27) flows to a drying device (80).

[0156] In the clothing processing device (1) according to various embodiments, an exhaust passage (P) can be formed as a duct cover (29) is coupled to a tub duct (28).

[0157] A tub duct (28) according to one embodiment may include a recess (28a) that forms a part of an exhaust passage (P) through which air discharged from inside the tub (20) flows.

[0158] A reinforcing rib (23) to reinforce the rigidity of the tub (20) may be provided on the rear surface of the tub (20), and a recess (28a) may be provided as a recessed portion from the end of the reinforcing rib (23) protruding from the rear surface of the tub (20). The recess (28a) may be provided as a portion of the rear surface of the tub (20) where the reinforcing rib (23) is not formed. A tub exhaust port (27) for discharging air from the inside of the tub (20) may be formed in the recess (28a).

[0159] The tub duct (28) may include a partition rib (28d) provided along the perimeter of the recess (28a). The partition rib (28d) can distinguish between the area where the reinforcing rib (23) is formed and the area where the recess (28a) is formed on the back side of the tub (20).

[0160] A tub (20) according to one embodiment may include a duct connection (28b) that forms another part of the exhaust passage (P) through which air passes through the recess (28a).

[0161] The duct connection (28b) may protrude radially outward from the outer surface of the tub (20). The duct connection (28b) may protrude approximately upward from the outer surface of the tub (20). For example, the duct connection (28b) may protrude upward from the rear end of the tub (20). However, it is not limited thereto, and the duct connection (28b) may be positioned in various ways depending on the location of the drying device (80).

[0162] The duct connection (28b) can connect the inlet guide (84) of the drying device (80) with the tub duct (28). The duct connection (28b) can extend the exhaust passage (P) upward. The duct connection (28b) can form a part of the exhaust passage (P) together with the recess (28a), the partition rib (28d), and the duct cover (29).

[0163] The duct connection part (28b) may be formed in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped with an open top surface and a rear surface. The duct cover (29) may cover the open rear surface of the duct connection part (28b). By forming only one side of the exhaust passage with the duct cover (29) so that it can be joined, the joining and sealing structure can be facilitated.

[0164] The duct cover (29) can cover the tub duct (28) and the duct connection (28b). The duct cover (29) can cover one open side of the tub duct (28) and the open rear side of the duct connection (28b). By the duct cover (29) covering the recess (28a) and the duct connection (28b), an exhaust passage (P) can be formed. Since the exhaust passage (P) is connected to the inflow passage (85), air introduced into the exhaust passage (P) through the tub exhaust port (27) can travel along the exhaust passage (P) and be introduced into the drying device (80) through the inflow passage (85).

[0165] Although not shown in the drawing, the duct connection part (28b) may be provided in a rectangular shape in which only the upper surface through which air is discharged is open and the rear surface is not open. In this case, the duct cover (29) may cover only the tub duct (28).

[0166] Meanwhile, the duct connection portion (28b) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided as a configuration included in the tub duct (28). The duct connection portion (28b) of the tub duct (28) according to one embodiment may extend from the recess portion (28a) to the inflow guide (84). The tub duct (28) may be connected to the inflow guide (84) by the duct connection portion (28b). Hereinafter, the duct connection portion (28b) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be described as a configuration included in the tub duct (28).

[0167] The tub duct (28) may include a stepped portion (28c) to expand the cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust passage (P). The exhaust passage (P) may be configured such that the width of the portion formed by the duct connection portion (28b) is greater than the width of the portion formed by the recess portion (28a) by the stepped portion (28c).

[0168] The water supply valves (41, 42) of the garment processing device (1) can be positioned by utilizing the remaining space created by this mounting structure. In one embodiment, the water supply valves (41, 42) may be mounted between the inlet guide (84) and the cooling fan (91a). The water supply valves (41, 42) may be located in the center of the rear of the drying device (80). The water supply valves (41, 42) may be located behind the condenser (92). The water supply valves (41, 42) may be located in an area partitioned from the path through which the drying air flows. The location of the water supply valves (41, 42) is not limited to the examples provided.

[0169] The garment processing device (1) may include a washing water heater (24). The washing water heater (24) is provided on the lower side of the tub (20) to heat the washing water during washing. Additionally, the water supply device (40) can supply a certain amount of water to the lower side of the tub (20) through the exhaust path (P) during the drying process, and the washing water heater (24) can generate steam by heating the water supplied into the interior of the tub (20) through the water supply device (40), the exhaust path (P), and the tub exhaust port (27). That is, the steam generated by the water supply device (40) and the washing water heater (24) can come into contact with the garment during the drying process, thereby minimizing the formation of wrinkles on the garment.

[0170] That is, the clothing processing device (1) is a washing / drying combined washing machine and, unlike a conventional dryer, may include a washing water heater (24) for heating the washing water, and by utilizing the washing water heater (24) and a water supply device (40) for cleaning the exhaust path (P), steam can be generated to prevent wrinkles from forming on the clothing during the drying process as much as possible.

[0171] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configurations of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0172] Referring to FIG. 6, the clothing processing device (1) may include a control unit (300). The control unit (300) may be electrically connected to various parts and / or devices of the clothing processing device (1) and may control various parts and / or devices. For example, the control unit (300) may control a driving device (36), a water supply device (40), a drainage device (70), and a drying device (80). Additionally, the control unit (300) may be electrically connected to a user interface (100), a communication interface (160), and a sensor (150). The control unit (300) may control the user interface (100), the communication interface (160), and the sensor (150).

[0173] The control unit (300) may include a processor (310) and a memory (320). The memory (320) may include volatile memory (e.g., S-RAM, D-RAM) and non-volatile memory (e.g., ROM, EPROM). The processor (310) and the memory (320) may be implemented as separate chips or as a single chip. Additionally, multiple processors and multiple memories may be provided. The processor (310) can process various data and various signals using instructions, data, programs and / or software stored in the memory (320). The processor (310) may include a single core or multiple cores. The processor (310) can generate control signals for controlling components of the clothing processing device (1).

[0174] The memory (320) can store various data and various values ​​(e.g., reference weight, reference measurement value, operation algorithm, predetermined weight, predetermined time, etc.) for the operation of the control unit (300) to be described later.

[0175] The user interface (100) can receive various user inputs and output various information regarding the operation of the clothing processing device (1). The user interface (100) may include an input interface (101) and an output interface (102).

[0176] The control unit (300) can control the operation of the clothing processing device (1) based on user input obtained through the user interface (100). For example, the control unit (300) can turn the clothing processing device (1) on or off based on user input for turning the clothing processing device (1) on or off. The control unit (300) can determine the operation course of the clothing processing device (1) based on user input for setting the operation course of the clothing processing device (1).

[0177] The control unit (300) of the clothing processing device (1) can determine the operation course of the clothing processing device (1) based on user input obtained through the user interface (100) or user device. The operation course of the clothing processing device (1) can be provided in various ways. For example, the operation course of the clothing processing device (1) can be broadly classified into a washing course and a drying course.

[0178] Washing courses may be provided in various ways depending on the type of laundry (e.g., clothing, bedding, underwear, etc.) and material (e.g., cotton, wool, nylon, etc.). For example, washing courses may include at least one of a standard wash course, a heavy wash course, a delicate clothing course, a bedding course, a baby clothes course, a towel course, a boiling course, and an outdoor clothing course. Each of the multiple washing courses may include different washing settings (e.g., wash temperature, number of rinses, spin intensity, etc.).

[0179] When one of a plurality of washing courses is selected through a user interface (100) or an external user device, the control unit (300) can control the garment processing device (1) to perform a washing course, a rinsing course, and a spin-drying course corresponding to the selected washing course. Additionally, the washing course may include a rinse-spin course, a rinsing course, and a spin-drying course. The washing course is not limited to the examples provided.

[0180] Drying courses can also be provided in various ways depending on the type of laundry (e.g., clothing, bedding, underwear, etc.) and material (e.g., cotton, wool, nylon, etc.). For example, a drying course may include at least one of standard drying, intensive drying, delicate clothing drying, bedding drying, baby clothes drying, towel drying, and outdoor clothing drying. Each of the multiple drying courses may include different drying settings (e.g., drying temperature, drying time, etc.).

[0181] When one of a plurality of drying courses is selected through a user interface (100) or an external user device, the control unit (300) can control the garment processing device (1) to perform a drying process corresponding to the selected drying course. The drying course is not limited to the examples provided. To perform a drying process corresponding to the drying course, the control unit (300) can operate the drying device (80). That is, the control unit (300) can operate the fan (87a) and the compressor (91) to dry the laundry inside the drum (30). Additionally, the control unit (300) may further operate the drying heater (99) to perform the drying process.

[0182] In the washing, rinsing, and spin-drying cycles, the object contained within the drum (30) may be referred to as laundry, and in the drying cycle, the object contained within the drum (30) may be referred to as drying object. However, for convenience of explanation, the object contained within the drum (30) in the washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying cycles is defined as laundry below.

[0183] The control unit (300) can control the user interface (100) to output various information regarding the operation of the clothing processing device (1). For example, the user interface (100) can visually and / or audibly output information regarding the operation course, operation time, washing settings, rinsing settings, spin settings, and / or drying settings of the clothing processing device (1). Additionally, the user interface (100) can output information regarding abnormal status of the clothing processing device (1).

[0184] The communication interface (160) may include various communication circuits for performing wired communication and / or wireless communication with an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or other home appliance). The user device may include various electronic devices such as a smartphone, a notebook, a laptop, a smart watch, a stationary tablet, and a speaker. User input may be obtained through the user interface (100) as well as through the user device.

[0185] The communication interface (160) may include at least one of a short-range communication circuit and a long-range communication circuit. The communication interface (160) may transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication interface (160) may support cellular communication, wireless local area network, home radio frequency (RF), infrared communication, ultra-wide band (UWB) communication, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, AD-HOC, and / or Zigbee. The communication technologies supported by the communication interface (160) are not limited to those exemplified.

[0186] The communication interface (160) may also communicate with an external device through an access point (AP). The access point can connect the local network (LAN) to which the clothing processing device (1) is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The clothing processing device (1) can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN).

[0187] The clothing processing device (1) can be connected to other home appliances and / or electronic devices through a communication interface (160).

[0188] The clothing processing device (1) can transmit information related to the operation of the clothing processing device (1) (e.g., information related to the washing process and / or drying process) to other home appliances and / or electronic devices. The selection of the washing course and / or drying course may be performed not only on the user interface (100) but also on other home appliances and / or electronic devices. Additionally, information regarding the clothing processing device (1) may also be displayed not only on the user interface (100) but also on other home appliances and / or electronic devices.

[0189] Additionally, the clothing processing device (1) can receive various measurement data through the communication interface (160). For example, if a sensor for measuring the temperature or humidity of the air discharged from the drum (30) is installed outside the clothing processing device (1), the communication interface (160) can receive the temperature or humidity data of the air discharged from the drum (30) from the sensor installed outside the clothing processing device (1).

[0190] The sensor (150) can measure at least one of the temperature or humidity of the air discharged from the drum (30).

[0191] For example, the sensor (150) may include a temperature sensor (151) for measuring the temperature of the air discharged from the drum (30) and / or a humidity sensor (152) for measuring the humidity of the air discharged from the drum (30).

[0192] The temperature sensor (151) can measure the temperature of the air discharged from the drum (30) and guided through the inlet path (85). The temperature data measured by the temperature sensor (151) can be transmitted to the control unit (300). The control unit (300) can obtain the temperature value of the air discharged from the drum (30) based on the temperature data transmitted from the temperature sensor (151). For convenience of explanation, the temperature value obtained by the control unit (300) is defined below as the temperature value measured by the temperature sensor (151).

[0193] The humidity sensor (152) can measure the humidity of the air discharged from the drum (30) and guided through the inlet path (85). The humidity data measured by the humidity sensor (152) can be transmitted to the control unit (300). The control unit (300) can obtain the humidity value of the air discharged from the drum (30) based on the humidity data transmitted from the humidity sensor (152). For convenience of explanation, the humidity value obtained by the control unit (300) is defined below as the humidity value measured by the humidity sensor (152).

[0194] The drainage device (70) can discharge water inside the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10). For example, the drainage device (70) may include a drainage pump (71) that provides a driving force to discharge water inside the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10). The control unit (300) can control the drainage pump (71) so that water inside the tub (20) is discharged to the outside through the drain pipe (73). Controlling the drainage pump (71) by the control unit (300) may include the control unit (300) controlling the drainage device (70).

[0195] The water supply device (40) can be connected to an external water source.

[0196] The control unit (300) can control the water supply device (40). For example, the control unit (300) can control the opening and closing of the first water supply valve (41) and the second water supply valve (42), respectively. In addition, the control unit (300) can adjust the opening degree of the first water supply valve (41) and the second water supply valve (42), respectively.

[0197] The control unit (300) can control the water supply device (40) to supply water to at least one of the upper detergent supply device (50), nozzle device (96), and tub (20) in order to perform at least one of the washing process (1010), rinsing process (1020), spin-drying process (1030), and drying process (1040).

[0198] The driving device (36) can rotate the drum (30) according to the control of the control unit (300). The driving device (36) may include a driving motor (36a). The control unit (300) can control the driving motor (36a) to adjust the rotational speed of the drum (30).

[0199] In the present disclosure, the control unit (300) controlling the drum (30) may include the control unit (300) controlling the drive motor (36a).

[0200] The control unit (300) can detect the weight of the laundry contained in the drum (30) based on the load value of the drive motor (36a). The load value of the drive motor (36a) may include a feedback current value (or feedback voltage value) detected by rotating the drum (30) at a predetermined rotational speed.

[0201] The drive motor (36a) may have different load values ​​depending on the weight of the laundry contained in the drum (30). For example, when the drum (30) is rotated at a predetermined rotational speed, the feedback current value (or feedback voltage value) detected from the drive motor (36a) may increase as the weight of the laundry contained in the drum (30) increases.

[0202] The control unit (300) can generate a command current value (or command voltage value) for driving the drive motor (36a), and the feedback current value (or feedback voltage value) may represent the current value (or voltage value) actually consumed by the drive motor (36a) in correspondence with the command current value (or command voltage value).

[0203] The control unit (300) sets the feedback current value (or feedback voltage value) when there is no laundry in the drum (30) as a reference value, and can determine the weight of the laundry based on the difference between the feedback current value (or feedback voltage value) when there is laundry in the drum (30) and the reference value. The reference value may mean a load value corresponding to the minimum driving force required to rotate the drum (30).

[0204] However, the method of detecting the weight of laundry in the drum (30) according to the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the weight of laundry in the drum (30) can be detected according to various embodiments. For example, the control unit (300) can detect the weight of laundry based on the load value of a load cell provided in the damper (25) or the pressure value of a pressure sensor provided on the bottom surface of the tub (20).

[0205] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) can determine the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040, see FIG. 7) based on the weight of the laundry contained in the drum (30) and the measurement value measured by the sensor (150).

[0206] The operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) may include operation parameters of the drying process (1040) according to the characteristics of the laundry contained in the drum (30).

[0207] The characteristics of the laundry may include the weight of the laundry, the moisture absorption rate of the laundry, and the drying speed of the laundry.

[0208] The moisture absorption rate of laundry refers to the degree of moisture content it contains. The moisture absorption rate can vary depending on the material and type of laundry. For example, natural fibers such as cotton can have a higher moisture absorption rate compared to synthetic fibers.

[0209] The lower the moisture absorption rate of the laundry, the more easily moisture can be released from the laundry by the dehydration process (1030, see FIG. 7), and accordingly, the change in weight of the laundry by the dehydration process (1030) may be large.

[0210] The drying speed of the laundry refers to the speed at which moisture is released from the laundry during the drying process (1040). The drying speed of the laundry may vary depending on the material and type of the laundry. For example, in the case of laundry made of a thin material, the rate of moisture release during the drying process (1040) is higher than in the case of laundry made of a thick material, so the drying speed may be relatively higher.

[0211] The greater the drying speed of the laundry, the greater the rate at which moisture is released from the laundry by the drying process (1040), and the greater the rate at which moisture is released, the greater the difference in humidity value of the air discharged from the drum (30) by the drying process (1040).

[0212] In addition, the faster the drying speed of the laundry, the greater the difference in the temperature value of the air discharged from the drum (30) by the drying process (1040).

[0213] For example, if the moisture content of the laundry is high, the temperature may be lowered relatively significantly due to the latent heat of the moisture contained in the laundry as the high-temperature, low-humidity air passes through the drum (30). If the moisture content of the laundry is low, the temperature may be lowered relatively less due to the moisture contained in the laundry as the high-temperature, low-humidity air passes through the drum (30). As a result, the faster the drying speed of the laundry, the faster the moisture content of the laundry decreases, and consequently, the temperature of the air discharged through the drum (30) may increase relatively quickly as the drying process (1040) progresses.

[0214] In summary, the moisture absorption rate of the laundry may vary depending on the amount of moisture removed through the dehydration process (1030), and the lower the moisture absorption rate of the laundry, the higher the amount of moisture removed through the dehydration process (1030), so the change in weight of the laundry through the dehydration process (1030) may be large.

[0215] Additionally, the drying speed of the laundry may vary depending on the moisture removal speed through the drying process (1040), and the faster the drying speed of the laundry, the faster the temperature and humidity values ​​of the air discharged from the drum (30) may increase as the drying process (1040) progresses.

[0216] The operation parameters of the drying process (1040) may include the termination condition of the drying process (1040) and the target temperature of the hot air supplied to the inside of the drum (30) during the execution of the drying process (1040).

[0217] The control unit (300) can terminate the drying process (1040) when it satisfies the termination condition of the drying process (1040) corresponding to the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040).

[0218] The control unit (300) can raise the temperature of the hot air supplied to the inside of the drum (30) to a target temperature corresponding to the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040).

[0219] The target temperature of the hot air supplied to the inside of the drum (30) during the execution of the drying process (1040) can be defined as the target drying temperature of the drying process (1040).

[0220] There may be multiple operation algorithms for the drying process (1040), and each of the multiple operation algorithms for the drying process (1040) may be stored in memory (320). The drying device (80) can remove moisture contained in the air, heat the air, and supply the heated air to the tub (20). The control unit (300) can operate the drying device (80) to dry laundry located inside the drum (30). To generate dry and heated air, the drying device (80) may include a fan (87a), a compressor (91), and an expansion valve. Additionally, although not shown in FIG. 6, the drying device (80) may include heat exchangers (92, 93).

[0221] The control unit (300) can control the fan (87a), compressor (91), and expansion valve included in the drying device (80). The control unit (300) can operate the fan (87a) so that the dried and heated air is supplied into the drum (30). The control unit (300) can adjust the rotational speed of the fan (87a). The flow rate of the air supplied into the drum (30) may vary depending on the rotational speed of the fan (87a).

[0222] The compressor (91) compresses the low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant and discharges it as high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. For example, the compressor (91) can compress the refrigerant through the reciprocating motion of a piston or the rotational motion of a rotor. The discharged gaseous refrigerant can be delivered to the condenser (92). The control unit (300) can adjust the operating frequency and / or rotational speed (RPM) of the compressor (91). As the operating frequency and / or rotational speed (RPM) of the compressor (91) increases, the heat released around the condenser (92) can increase. The control unit (300) can adjust the opening of the expansion valve. The expansion valve may be provided as an electronic expansion valve whose opening can be adjusted by a capillary tube and an electrical signal to regulate the pressure of the liquid refrigerant. The low-temperature, low-pressure two-phase refrigerant that has passed through the expansion valve flows into the evaporator (93).

[0223] The control unit (300) can control the fan (87a), the compressor (91), and the expansion valve to adjust the drying time of the drying process. For example, the control unit (300) can operate the fan (87a), the compressor (91), and the expansion valve at the start of the drying process to supply hot air into the drum (30) at the start of the drying process, and can stop the operation of the fan (87a), the compressor (91), and the expansion valve at the end of the drying process to stop the supply of hot air into the drum (30) at the end of the drying process.

[0224] The control unit (300) can control the fan (87a), the compressor (91), and / or the expansion valve to control the drying temperature of the drying process. For example, if the temperature measured by the temperature sensor (151) is lower than the target drying temperature, the control unit (300) can increase the rotational speed of the fan (87a), increase the operating frequency and / or rotational speed (RPM) of the compressor (91), or increase the opening rate of the expansion valve to reach the target drying temperature.

[0225] The control unit (300) controlling the drying device (80) may include controlling the fan (87a), compressor (91), and / or expansion valve of the drying device (80). Additionally, the control unit (300) controlling the drying device (80) may include controlling the heat exchangers (92, 93) of the drying device (80).

[0226] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of steps performed by a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0227] Referring to FIG. 7, the clothing processing device (1) can perform various operations as various operation courses are selected. Depending on the operation course, the clothing processing device (1) can selectively perform at least one of a washing process (1010), a rinsing process (1020), a spin-drying process (1030), and a drying process (1040).

[0228] For example, the garment processing device (1) can perform a washing process (1010), a rinsing process (1020), and a spin-drying process (1030) in response to the selection of a washing course. The garment processing device (1) can perform a washing process (1010), a rinsing process (1020), a spin-drying process (1030), and a drying process (1040) in response to the selection of a washing-drying course. The garment processing device (1) can perform a rinsing process (1020) and a spin-drying process (1030) in response to the selection of a washing-drying course. The garment processing device (1) can perform a spin-drying process (1030) in response to the selection of a spin-drying course. The garment processing device (1) may perform only a drying process (1040) in response to the selection of a drying course. The operation of the garment processing device (1) is described below with the case where a washing-drying course is selected as an example.

[0229] To perform a washing process (1010), the control unit (300) can control the detergent supply device (50, 60) to supply washing detergent to the tub (20). The control unit (300) can control the water supply device (40) to supply water to the tub (20). The control unit (300) can control the drive device (36) to rotate the drum (30). The washing process (1010) can be performed one or more times.

[0230] When the washing process (1010) is completed, the garment processing device (1) can perform a rinsing process (1020). The rinsing process (1020) can be performed one or more times. The control unit (300) can control the driving device (36) to rotate the drum (30). To perform the rinsing process (1020), the control unit (300) can control the water supply device (40) to supply water to the tub (20). The control unit (300) can also control the detergent supply device (50, 60) to supply a rinsing aid to the tub (20).

[0231] When the rinsing process (1020) is completed, the garment processing device (1) can perform a spin-drying process (1030). The control unit (300) can control the drainage device (70) so that detergent and / or water are discharged from the tub (20). The control unit (300) can rotate the drum (30) at a relatively high speed. When the drum (30) rotates rapidly, the detergent and / or water absorbed by the laundry can be removed from the laundry by centrifugal force.

[0232] When the dehydration process (1030) is completed, the garment processing device (1) can perform a drying process (1040). To perform the drying process (1040), the control unit (300) can control a drying device (80) that supplies hot air into the drum (30). Additionally, the control unit (300) can rotate the drum (30) at a relatively low speed.

[0233] When the drying process (1040) is completed, the control unit (300) can terminate the washing-drying course. The control unit (300) can stop the operation of the clothing processing device (1) and turn off the power.

[0234] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0235] Referring to FIG. 8, the garment processing device (1) can detect a first weight of laundry contained in the drum (30) before the start of the spin cycle (1030) (1110). The control unit (300) can drive the drive motor (36a) to rotate the drum (30) before the start of the spin cycle (1030). The control unit (300) can detect the first weight of laundry contained in the drum (30) before the start of the spin cycle (1030) from the load value of the drive motor (36a) (e.g., feedback current value or feedback voltage value).

[0236] The period for detecting the first weight of the laundry contained in the drum (30) before the start of the spin-drying process (1030) according to the present disclosure (hereinafter, the first weight detection period) may vary depending on the selected operation course. For example, if the washing course is a washing course that performs all of the washing process (1010), the rinsing process (1020), and the spin-drying process (1030), the first weight detection period may include the period after the end of the rinsing process (1020) and before the start of the spin-drying process (1030). As another example, if the washing course is a spin-drying course that performs only the spin-drying process (1030), the first weight detection period may include the period after receiving the selection of the spin-drying course and before the start of the spin-drying process (1030).

[0237] The garment processing device (1) can perform a dehydration process (1030) after detecting a first weight (1120). The control unit (300) can control the drainage device (70) so that detergent and / or water are discharged from the tub (20). The control unit (300) can rotate the drum (30) at a relatively high speed. For example, the control unit (300) can rotate the drum (30) at a predetermined speed that is relatively higher than the speed of the drum (30) for detecting the first weight.

[0238] The garment processing device (1) can detect a second weight of the laundry after the spin cycle (1030) is completed (1130). The control unit (300) can drive the drive motor (36a) to rotate the drum (30) after the spin cycle (1030) is completed. The control unit (300) can detect the second weight of the laundry contained in the drum (30) after the spin cycle (1030) is completed from the load value of the drive motor (36a) (e.g., feedback current value or feedback voltage value).

[0239] The period for detecting the second weight of the laundry after the end of the dehydration process (1030) (hereinafter, the second weight detection period) may include at least a portion of the period between the end of the dehydration process (1030) and the start of the drying process (1040).

[0240] The first weight detection period and the second weight detection period may be the same. The duration of the dehydration process (1030) may be longer than the first weight detection period and the second weight detection period.

[0241] The garment processing device (1) can start a drying process (1040) (1140). The control unit (300) can start the drying process (1040) by controlling the drying device (80) after a second weight detection period. Starting the drying process (1040) may include operating the fan (87a), compressor (91), expansion valve, and heat exchanger (92, 93) of the drying device (80). As a result, hot air can be supplied to the inside of the drum (30).

[0242] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) can obtain a first measurement value at a first point in time of the drying process (1040) (1150). For example, the control unit (300) can obtain a first measurement value measured from the sensor (150) at a first point in time of the drying process (1040). The first measurement value measured at the first point in time may include a first temperature value measured at the first point in time and a first humidity value measured from the humidity sensor (152).

[0243] The first point in time may include the start time of the drying process (1040). For example, the first measurement value measured at the first point in time may include the first measurement value measured from the sensor (150) at the start time of the drying process (1040).

[0244] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) can obtain a second measurement value at a second point in time of the drying process (1040) (1160). For example, the control unit (300) can obtain a second measurement value measured from the sensor (150) at a second point in time of the drying process (1040). The second measurement value measured at the second point in time may include a second temperature value measured from the temperature sensor (151) at the second point in time and a second humidity value measured from the humidity sensor (152).

[0245] The second point in time may include a point in time after a predetermined period has elapsed from the first point in time of the drying process (1040). For example, the second point in time may include a point in time after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start point of the drying process (1040). The predetermined time may be approximately 20 minutes.

[0246] The first and second time points according to the present disclosure are not limited thereto and may be defined differently according to various embodiments. For example, the first time point may include a time point approximately 3 minutes after the drying process (1040) has started, and the second time point may include a time point approximately 20 minutes after the first time point.

[0247] In various embodiments, the control unit (300) can determine the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) based on the difference between the first weight of the laundry detected before the start of the drying process (1030) and the second weight of the laundry detected after the end of the drying process (1030), and the difference between the first measurement value at the first point in time of the drying process (1040) and the second measurement value at the second point in time after the first point in time of the drying process (1040) (1070).

[0248] Below, a method for determining the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) based on the difference in weight of the laundry (the difference between the first weight and the second weight) and the difference in the measured value in the drying process (1040) (the difference between the first measured value and the second measured value) is described.

[0249] The greater the difference between the first weight of the laundry detected before the start of the spin cycle (1030) and the second weight of the laundry detected after the end of the spin cycle (1030), the lower the moisture absorption rate of the laundry may be.

[0250] The low moisture absorption rate of the laundry means that the laundry absorbs water to a low degree, so moisture can be easily released from the laundry by the spin cycle (1030), and as a result, the change in weight of the laundry detected before the start of the spin cycle (1030) and after the end of the spin cycle (1030) may be large.

[0251] The greater the difference between the first measurement value at the first point in time of the drying process (1040) and the second measurement value at the second point in time after the first point, the higher the drying speed of the laundry may be.

[0252] A high drying speed of the laundry means that the rate at which moisture is released from the laundry by the drying process (1040) is high, and as a result, the difference between the humidity and temperature values ​​between different points in time (first point and second point) of the drying process (1040) may be large.

[0253] It is necessary to vary the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) depending on the moisture absorption rate of the laundry and the drying speed of the laundry. For example, the lower the moisture absorption rate of the laundry and the faster the drying speed of the laundry, the shorter the drying time of the drying process (1040) for completing the drying of the laundry may be. As another example, the lower the moisture absorption rate of the laundry and the faster the drying speed of the laundry, the higher the target drying temperature of the drying process (1040) may be.

[0254] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) can perform the drying process (1040) according to the operation algorithm of the determined drying process (1040) (1180). For example, if the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) is determined during the performance of the drying process (1040), the control unit (300) can perform the drying process (1040) according to the determined operation algorithm.

[0255] The operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) may include a target temperature of the hot air supplied through the drum (30) during the drying process (1040). The target temperature of the hot air supplied through the drum (30) during the drying process (1040) may be defined as the target drying temperature of the drying process (1040). The control unit (300) may control the fan (87a) and the compressor (91) of the drying device (80) to adjust the temperature of the hot air supplied through the drum (30) during the drying process (1040). The temperature of the hot air supplied through the drum (30) during the drying process (1040) may be defined as the drying temperature of the drying process (1040).

[0256] For convenience of explanation, the target temperature of the hot air supplied through the drum (30) during the drying process (1040) is defined as the target drying temperature of the drying process (1040), and the temperature of the hot air supplied through the drum (30) during the drying process (1040) is defined as the drying temperature of the drying process (1040).

[0257] The control unit (300) can control the drying device (80) according to the target drying temperature of the determined drying process (1040).

[0258] For example, the control unit (300) can increase the speed of the fan (87a) of the drying device (80) or increase the operating frequency and / or rotational speed (RPM) of the compressor (91) when the drying temperature of the drying process (1040) is lower than the target drying temperature of the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040).

[0259] The operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) may include a termination condition for the drying process (1040). The termination condition for the drying process (1040) may be a condition for terminating the drying process (1040). When the termination condition for the drying process (1040) is satisfied, the control unit (300) may terminate the drying process (1040) (example of 1190 and 1200).

[0260] If the termination condition of the drying process (1040) is not satisfied, the drying process (1040) can be carried out according to the operation algorithm of the determined drying process (1040) (No and 1180 of 1190).

[0261] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0262] Referring to FIG. 9, the garment processing device (1) can start the drying process (1040) in the same way as the drying process (1040) in FIG. 8 (2100). In addition, the garment processing device (1) can obtain the first measurement value (1150) and the second measurement value (1160) in FIG. 8 (2110 and 2120). As described above, the first measurement value may include at least one of the first temperature value or the first humidity value at the first point in time of the drying process (1040), and the second measurement value may include at least one of the second temperature value or the second humidity value at the second point in time of the drying process (1040).

[0263] In the following, the first weight detection (1110), the dehydration process (1030) (1120) and the second weight detection (1130) described in FIG. 8 are explained on the premise that they are performed before the drying process (1040) of FIG. 9 (2100).

[0264] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) may determine the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) as the first operation algorithm based on the fact that the difference between the first weight and the second weight is greater than or equal to the reference weight and the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value is greater than or equal to the reference measurement value (examples of 2300, 2400 and 2500).

[0265] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) may determine the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) as a second operation algorithm different from the first operation algorithm based on whether the difference between the first weight and the second weight is smaller than the reference weight or whether the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value is smaller than the reference measurement value.

[0266] For example, the control unit (300) may determine the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) as the second operation algorithm when the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value is smaller than the reference measurement value, even if the difference between the first weight and the second weight is greater than or equal to the reference weight (yes of 2300, no of 2400, and 2600).

[0267] As another example, the control unit (300) can determine the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) as the second operation algorithm even if the difference between the first and second measurements is greater than or equal to the reference measurement value, but the difference between the first weight and the second weight is smaller than the reference weight.

[0268] The first operation algorithm may be an operation algorithm of a drying process (1040) that can be applied to laundry that can be dried within a relatively faster drying time compared to the second operation algorithm. Additionally, the drying temperature of the drying process (1040) may be relatively high in order to complete drying within a relatively faster drying time.

[0269] The first operation algorithm may be an operation algorithm for rapid drying. The second operation algorithm may be an operation algorithm based on the dryness level of the laundry.

[0270] The first operation algorithm and the second operation algorithm are each explained in detail below.

[0271] When the control unit (300) determines the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) as the first operation algorithm, it can proceed with the drying process (1040) according to the first operation algorithm (2510).

[0272] The first operation algorithm may include a first temperature as the target drying temperature of the drying process (1040). For example, when the drying process (1040) is performed according to the first operation algorithm, the control unit (300) may control the drying device (80) so that the drying temperature of the drying process (1040) becomes the first temperature.

[0273] If the control unit (300) determines the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) as the second operation algorithm, it can proceed with the drying process (1040) according to the second operation algorithm (2610).

[0274] The second operation algorithm may include a second temperature as the target drying temperature of the drying process (1040). For example, when the drying process (1040) is performed according to the second operation algorithm, the control unit (300) may control the drying device (80) so that the drying temperature of the drying process (1040) becomes the second temperature.

[0275] The first temperature, which is the target drying temperature of the first operation algorithm, may be higher than the second temperature, which is the target drying temperature of the second operation algorithm. Since the first operation algorithm is an operation algorithm for rapid drying of laundry, the first temperature may be higher than the second temperature.

[0276] The first operation algorithm may include a time condition as a termination condition for the drying process (1040).

[0277] The time condition may include whether the elapsed time of the drying process (1040) has elapsed a reference time. For example, the time condition may include whether the reference time has elapsed after the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) is determined to be the first operation algorithm.

[0278] When the control unit (300) performs the drying process (1040) according to the first operation algorithm, it determines the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) as the first operation algorithm, and when a reference time has elapsed, it determines that the time condition, which is the termination condition of the drying process (1040), has been satisfied and can terminate the drying process (1040) (Example of 2520 and 2700).

[0279] The second operation algorithm may include at least one of a humidity condition, a temperature condition, or a weight condition as a termination condition for the drying process (1040).

[0280] The humidity condition may include the humidity value measured by the humidity sensor (152) being greater than or equal to a predetermined humidity value. The temperature condition may include the temperature value measured by the temperature sensor (151) being greater than or equal to a predetermined temperature value. The weight condition may include the weight of the laundry contained in the drum (30) detected during the drying process (1040) being reduced more than a predetermined value.

[0281] Humidity, temperature, and weight conditions may be conditions corresponding to the dryness of the laundry.

[0282] For example, if the humidity value measured by the humidity sensor (152) is greater than or equal to a predetermined humidity value, it may mean that the drying of the laundry is complete. As another example, if the temperature value measured by the temperature sensor (151) is greater than or equal to a predetermined temperature value, it may mean that the drying of the laundry is complete. As yet another example, if the weight of the laundry decreases more than a predetermined value during the drying process (1040), it may mean that the drying of the laundry is complete.

[0283] The control unit (300) determines the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) as a second operation algorithm, and when the drying process (1040) is carried out according to the second operation algorithm, if at least one of the humidity condition, temperature condition, or weight condition is satisfied, it determines that the drying process (1040) satisfies the termination condition and can terminate the drying process (1040) (Example of 2620 and 2700).

[0284] The termination condition of the drying process (1040) of the second operation algorithm may be independent of the time condition. For example, when the drying process (1040) is performed according to the second operation algorithm, the drying process (1040) may be terminated according to the degree of drying of the laundry regardless of whether a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0285] The end time of the drying process (1040) according to the first operation algorithm may be earlier than the end time of the drying process (1040) according to the second operation algorithm. Since the first operation algorithm is an operation algorithm for rapid drying of laundry, the end time of the drying process (1040) according to the first operation algorithm may be earlier than the end time of the drying process (1040) according to the second operation algorithm.

[0286] In one embodiment, if the second weight is greater than or equal to a predetermined weight, the control unit (300) can determine the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) as the second operation algorithm regardless of the difference between the first weight and the first weight or the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value (No and 2200 of 2600).

[0287] Even if the laundry has a low moisture absorption rate and a fast drying speed, if the amount of laundry is large, the drying process (1040) may not be completed even if the drying process (1040) is carried out according to the first operation algorithm. For example, if the drying process (1040) is carried out according to the first operation algorithm without considering the weight of the laundry, and the drying process (1040) ends relatively faster than the second operation algorithm depending on the time conditions, the drying process (1040) may end before the drying of the laundry is completed.

[0288] Accordingly, the control unit (300) can determine the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) as the second operation algorithm regardless of the difference between the first weight and the first weight or the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value when the second weight, which is the weight of the laundry after the end of the dehydration process (1030), is greater than or equal to a predetermined weight.

[0289] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining a method of performing a drying process according to an operation algorithm of a drying process of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0290] Referring to FIG. 10, the garment processing device (1) can detect a first weight of the laundry before the start of the spin cycle (1030). For example, the garment processing device (1) can detect a first weight of the laundry during the first weight detection period (ta~tb).

[0291] The garment processing device (1) may perform a dehydration process (1030) at the time (tb) when the first weight detection period (ta~tb) ends. However, the time at which the dehydration process (1030) is performed is not limited thereto. For example, the garment processing device (1) may perform the dehydration process (1030) after a certain period of time following the time (tb) when the first weight detection period (ta~tb) ends.

[0292] The garment processing device (1) can detect the first weight of the laundry after the spin cycle (1030) is completed. For example, the garment processing device (1) can detect the second weight of the laundry during the second weight detection period (tc~t1).

[0293] The clothing processing device (1) can detect a second weight at the time (tc) when the dehydration process (1030) is completed. However, the time of the second weight detection period is not limited to this. For example, the clothing processing device (1) can detect the second weight after a certain amount of time has passed since the dehydration process (1030) is completed.

[0294] The clothing processing device (1) can start the drying process (1040) after the second weight detection period (tc~t1).

[0295] The clothing processing device (1) can obtain a first measurement value (a first temperature value and / or a first humidity value) of air discharged from the drum (30) at a first time point (t1) of the drying process (1040). The first time point (t1) may include the start time of the drying process (1040).

[0296] The clothing processing device (1) can obtain a second measurement value (second temperature value and / or second humidity value) of air discharged from the drum (30) at a second time point (t2) after a first time point (t1) of the drying process (1040).

[0297] The second time point (t2) may include a time point after a predetermined time (S) has elapsed from the first time point (t1). For example, the second time point (t2) may include a time point after a predetermined time (S) has elapsed from the start time of the drying process (1040). The predetermined time (S) may be approximately 20 minutes.

[0298] The clothing processing device (1) can determine the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) based on the difference between the first weight of the laundry obtained during the first weight detection period (ta~tb) and the second weight of the laundry obtained during the second weight detection period (tc~t1), and the first measurement value (first temperature value and / or first humidity value) obtained at the first time point (t1) and the second measurement value (second temperature value and / or second humidity value) obtained at the second time point (t2).

[0299] If the garment processing device (1) determines the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) as the first operation algorithm, it can perform the drying process (1040) according to the first operation algorithm.

[0300] The first operation algorithm may include a time condition as a termination condition for the drying process (1040). The time condition may include the fact that a predetermined reference time (P) has elapsed from the point in time (t2) when the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) is determined as the first operation algorithm.

[0301] The control unit (300) can terminate the drying process (1040) by determining that the time condition of the drying process (1040) is satisfied at the time (t3) after a predetermined reference time (P) has elapsed from the time (t2) determined by the first operation algorithm.

[0302] Meanwhile, if the operation algorithm of the drying process (1040) is determined as the second operation algorithm, the drying process (1040) can be carried out according to the second operation algorithm.

[0303] The second operation algorithm may include at least one of a humidity condition, a temperature condition, or a weight condition as a termination condition for the drying process (1040).

[0304] When the control unit (300) proceeds with the drying process (1040) according to the second operation algorithm, if at least one of the humidity condition, temperature condition, or weight condition is not satisfied even after a predetermined time (P) has elapsed from the time point (t2) determined by the operation algorithm, the control unit (300) determines that the termination condition of the drying process (1040) is not satisfied and proceeds with the drying process (1040).

[0305] According to the present disclosure, in a garment processing device capable of simultaneously performing a washing course and a drying process, a drying process optimized for the characteristics of the laundry can be provided.

[0306] According to the present disclosure, in the case of laundry that can be dried quickly, the drying process is carried out according to an operation algorithm of the drying process corresponding thereto, thereby shortening the drying time and reducing energy consumption associated with the drying process.

[0307] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code and, when executed by a processor, may generate a program module to perform the operation of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0308] Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media that store instructions that can be decoded by a computer. Examples include ROM (read-only memory), RAM (random access memory), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage devices, etc.

[0309] Additionally, computer-readable recording media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. Here, 'non-transitory storage media' simply means that it is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily. For example, 'non-transitory storage media' may include a buffer in which data is stored temporarily.

[0310] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or distributed online (e.g., download or upload) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily created on a device-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0311] As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been explained with reference to the attached drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be practiced in forms different from the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be interpreted restrictively.

Claims

1. A drum for holding laundry; A drying device that supplies hot air to the above drum; A sensor for measuring at least one of the temperature or humidity of the air discharged from the drum; and A control unit that performs a dehydration process of rotating the drum at a predetermined speed and a drying process of controlling the drying device to supply hot air to the interior of the drum; The above control unit is, A garment processing device that determines an operation algorithm for a drying process based on the difference between a first weight of the laundry detected before the start of the drying process and a second weight of the laundry detected after the end of the drying process, and the difference between a first measurement value measured by the sensor at a first point in the drying process and a second measurement value measured by the sensor at a second point in the drying process.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit is, Based on the fact that the difference between the first weight and the second weight is greater than or equal to the reference weight and the difference between the first measured value and the second measured value is greater than or equal to the reference measured value, the operation algorithm of the drying process is determined as the first operation algorithm, and A clothing processing device that determines the operation algorithm of the drying process as a second operation algorithm different from the first operation algorithm based on the difference between the first weight and the second weight being smaller than the reference weight or the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value being smaller than the reference measurement value.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above operation algorithm includes a termination condition for the above drying process, and The above first operation algorithm includes a time condition as a termination condition for the drying process, and The above second operation algorithm is a garment processing device comprising at least one of a humidity condition, a temperature condition, or a weight condition as a termination condition of the above drying process.

4. In Paragraph 2, A clothing processing device in which the end time of the drying process according to the first operation algorithm is earlier than the end time of the drying process according to the second operation algorithm.

5. In Paragraph 2, The above operation algorithm includes the target temperature of the hot air, and The above first operation algorithm includes a first temperature as the target temperature of the hot air, and The above second operation algorithm includes a second temperature as the target temperature of the hot air, and A clothing processing device in which the first temperature is higher than the second temperature.

6. In Paragraph 2, The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that determines the operation algorithm of the drying process as the second operation algorithm regardless of the difference between the first weight and the second weight or the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value, if the second weight is greater than or equal to a predetermined weight.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above sensor includes a temperature sensor, and The above first measurement value is, It includes a first temperature value measured by the temperature sensor at the first time point, and The above second measurement value is, It includes a second temperature value measured by the temperature sensor at the second time point, The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that determines an operation algorithm for the drying process based on the difference between the first weight and the second weight and the difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above sensor includes a humidity sensor, and The above first measurement value is, It includes a first humidity value measured by the sensor at the first time point, and The above second measurement value is, It includes a second humidity value measured by the sensor at the second point in time above, and The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that determines an operation algorithm for the drying process based on the difference between the first weight and the second weight and the difference between the first humidity value and the second humidity value.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above sensor includes a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor, and The above first measurement value is, It includes a first temperature value measured by the temperature sensor and a first humidity value measured by the humidity sensor at the first time point, The above second measurement value is, It includes a second temperature value measured by the temperature sensor and a second humidity value measured by the humidity sensor at the second time point. The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that determines an operation algorithm for the drying process based on the difference between the first weight and the second weight, the difference between the first temperature value and the second temperature value, and the difference between the first humidity value and the second humidity value.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above first point in time is, This is the starting point of the above drying process, and The above second point in time is, A clothing processing device at a point in time when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed from the above-mentioned first point in time.

11. A control method for a clothing processing device comprising a drum for receiving laundry, a drying device for supplying hot air to the drum, and a sensor for measuring at least one of the temperature or humidity of air discharged from the drum, A dehydration process is performed by rotating the above drum at a predetermined speed; A drying process is performed by controlling the drying device to supply hot air to the interior of the drum; A control method for a garment processing device comprising: determining an operation algorithm for a drying process based on the difference between a first weight of the laundry detected before the start of the drying process and a second weight of the laundry detected after the end of the drying process, and the difference between a first measurement value measured by the sensor at a first point in the drying process and a second measurement value measured by the sensor at a second point in the drying process.

12. In Paragraph 11, Determining the operation algorithm of the above drying process is, Based on the fact that the difference between the first weight and the second weight is greater than or equal to the reference weight and the difference between the first measured value and the second measured value is greater than or equal to the reference measured value, the operation algorithm of the drying process is determined as the first operation algorithm; A control method for a clothing processing device comprising: determining the operation algorithm of the drying process as a second operation algorithm different from the first operation algorithm based on the difference between the first weight and the second weight being smaller than the reference weight or the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value being smaller than the reference measurement value.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above operation algorithm includes a termination condition for the above drying process, and The above first operation algorithm includes a time condition as a termination condition for the drying process, and The above second operation algorithm is a control method for a clothing processing device that includes at least one of a humidity condition, a temperature condition, or a weight condition as a termination condition for the drying process.

14. In Paragraph 12, A method for controlling a clothing processing device, wherein the end time of the drying process according to the first operation algorithm is earlier than the end time of the drying process according to the second operation algorithm.

15. In Paragraph 12, The above operation algorithm includes the target temperature of the hot air, and The above first operation algorithm includes a first temperature as the target temperature of the hot air, and The above second operation algorithm includes a second temperature as the target temperature of the hot air, and A method for controlling a clothing processing device, wherein the first temperature is higher than the second temperature.

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