Clothes treatment apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides a clothes treatment apparatus. The clothes treatment apparatus according to one embodiment comprises: a cabinet; a door rotatably coupled to the cabinet; an inner case forming an accommodation space in which clothes are hung; a refresh module which is disposed at the lower part of the inner case, and which includes a circulation duct for providing a flow path through which air inside the inner case circulates, a heat supply unit for heating the air flowing along the circulation duct, and a steam supply unit for supplying steam into the inner case; a storage housing, which is disposed at the lower part of the inner case, has an iron storage space for accommodating a steam iron for supplying steam to the surface of the clothes, and has an input hole formed at the front thereof; and a housing door provided at the front of the storage housing so as to open and close the input hole, wherein the housing door is slidable in the front-rear direction through the input hole while the input hole is open.

Description

Clothing processing device

[0001] The present invention relates to a garment processing device and a control method thereof. More specifically, it relates to a garment processing device capable of performing refresh operations, such as sterilization, wrinkle removal, deodorization, and drying of garments, by supplying steam and hot air to the garments.

[0002]

[0003] Recently, clothing processing devices have emerged that can perform clothing care (refresh), such as sterilization, deodorization, and drying, through the supply of hot air and steam without washing clothes with water and detergent. Examples of such conventional clothing processing devices include Korean Published Patent Applications No. 10-2020-0057545 and No. 10-2011-0067832.

[0004] The above-mentioned clothing processing device had the advantage of being able to manage clothing without water and detergent, thus preventing damage to the clothing, and allowing the time to manage and wear the clothing again to be faster than that of a washing machine and dryer.

[0005] In addition, since the above-mentioned garment processing device manages the garment while it is mounted without folding, it has the advantage of preventing wrinkles from forming on the garment and removing creases during the management process.

[0006] However, while the above-mentioned garment processing device has the advantage of allowing garments to be managed without being wet, wrinkles could not be completely removed. Furthermore, when removing wrinkles from garments without refreshing them, operating the garment processing device presented disadvantages in terms of time and cost.

[0007] Therefore, even if the aforementioned garment processing device was provided, it was common practice to additionally place an iron in each household to remove wrinkles by supplying heat and steam to the surface of the garment.

[0008] When the above iron is equipped as a steam iron capable of spraying steam, wrinkles in the clothing can be removed by supplying heat and steam to the clothing while the clothing is placed on a hanger, etc.

[0009] Although the iron and the garment processing device have in common that they can manage dry clothes, purchasing the steam iron and the garment processing device together is inefficient, and there was a problem of reduced space utilization because the steam iron and the garment processing device had to be placed separately.

[0010] Recently, to solve this problem, a garment processing device equipped with a steam iron capable of managing clothing has emerged. See Korean Registered Patent Publication No. 10-1265602 and Korean Published Patent Publication No. 10-2022-0056090.

[0011] The above garment processing device is configured to perform a refresh process by supplying hot air and steam as needed after placing the garment in an inner case (inside) without folding it, and to remove wrinkles by supplying heat and steam to the surface of the garment using the above steam iron.

[0012] This conventional clothing processing device had the effect that the user did not need to purchase a separate steam iron and did not need a separate place to store the steam iron.

[0013] This garment processing device could be equipped to connect a steam iron to the inner case. Therefore, after placing the garment in the inner case, the user could pull the steam iron out toward the inner case to supply heat and steam to the surface of the garment. In this case, there was an advantage in that no separate space other than the inner case was required to process the garment with the steam iron.

[0014] However, when the inner case is refreshed, it is sealed from the outside and hot air and steam are supplied. Therefore, if the steam iron is configured to be connected to or exposed to the inner case, there was a problem in that the steam iron would corrode or be damaged by the hot air and steam supplied to the inner case.

[0015] In particular, when foreign substances separated from clothing remained inside the inner case, there was a problem where the said foreign substances were exposed to the steam iron, causing the steam iron to become contaminated.

[0016] To solve this problem, a garment processing device has been introduced in which a steam iron is pulled out to the side of the cabinet so as not to communicate with the inner case. See Chinese Patent Publication No. 112826234.

[0017] This garment processing device had the advantage that the steam iron was not exposed to air, steam, or foreign substances inside the inner case, so there were no issues with corrosion or contamination.

[0018] However, the above-mentioned garment processing device had a problem in that it required a separate configuration for holding the garment in order to use the steam iron.

[0019] In addition, there were limitations in that a separate appliance could not be placed on the side of the garment processing device or the garment processing device could not be placed near a wall in order to pull out a steam iron or place a support member for the garment.

[0020] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a conventional method for storing a steam iron to solve the above problems.

[0021] The steam iron (1300) is provided separately from the receiving space (220) inside the inner case (200). In particular, a storage housing (1210) for storing the steam iron (1300) is provided side by side with the water supply tank (301) and the drain tank (302).

[0022] A sealing member (123) attached to the inner surface of the door (1200) may include a first sealing member (1231) surrounding the opening (220) of the inner case (200) or a second sealing member (1232) surrounding the lower front surface of the inner case (210) and the front of the machine room (300).

[0023] Therefore, the steam iron (1300) is not exposed to air, steam, or foreign substances inside the inner case (200), so there are no problems with corrosion or contamination, and a separate mounting space is not required outside the device, making it space-efficient.

[0024] The steam iron (1300) is used with the door (120) open. The clothing (L) to be ironed is placed on a mounting part (140) provided on the inner surface (121) of the door (120).

[0025] The steam iron (1300) is stored in a storage housing (1210) that stores the steam iron (1300), and the steam iron (1300) is pulled out by opening the housing door (1230). The housing door (1230) rotates from top to bottom and tilts about 45 degrees when fully open.

[0026] When using a steam iron (1300) that has been pulled out while the door (120) is open, the housing door (1230) is in a protruding position and is located within the rotation radius of the door (120). Therefore, when the door (120) moves in the closing direction, the door (120) interferes with the housing door (230), causing discomfort.

[0027] The housing door (1230) is kept tilted at approximately 45 degrees while fully open. In this case, the area of ​​the outlet is narrow, which causes inconvenience in pulling out the steam iron (1300). Nevertheless, if the opening angle (θ) of the housing door (1230) is increased to secure more area of ​​the outlet, there is a risk of damage to the housing door (1230) due to interference with the door (120).

[0028]

[0029] The present invention aims to solve the problem of discomfort caused by interference between doors when the cabinet door moves in the closing direction during use, due to the housing door of a storage housing for storing a steam iron protruding from the rotation radius of the cabinet door when the steam iron is in use.

[0030] One objective of the present invention is to provide a garment processing device that allows a steam iron to be easily withdrawn.

[0031] One objective of the present invention is to provide a garment processing device that can prevent damage to the housing door for storing a steam iron.

[0032] One of the problems addressed by the present invention is to provide a steam supply structure that can expand the occupied area of ​​a storage housing for storing a steam iron.

[0033] One of the problems addressed by the present invention is to provide a method for improving the assembly of a storage housing and an inner case for storing a steam iron.

[0034]

[0035] The present invention provides a garment processing device. In one embodiment, the garment processing device comprises: a cabinet; a door rotatably coupled to the cabinet; an inner case forming a receiving space for holding garments; a refresh module disposed at the bottom of the inner case and including a circulation duct providing a flow path for air inside the inner case to circulate, a heat supply unit for heating the air flowing along the circulation duct, and a steam supply unit provided to supply steam inside the inner case; a storage housing disposed at the bottom of the inner case and having an iron storage space for receiving a steam iron that supplies steam to the surface of the garments, and having an inlet formed at the front; and a housing door provided at the front of the storage housing for opening and closing the inlet; wherein the housing door is provided to slide in the forward and backward direction through the inlet when the inlet is open.

[0036] In one embodiment, the housing door can be moved from the front to the rear and positioned outside the rotation range of the door.

[0037] In one embodiment, when the housing door is in a state where the input port is open and the housing door is in a position protruding forward from the input port, the housing door can slide backward when the door closes the receiving space.

[0038] In one embodiment, when the door is closed, the steam iron is set to stop or be cut off from operation, and the refresh module can be set to be operable.

[0039] In one embodiment, when the door is opened, the steam iron is set to be operable, and the refresh module can be set to be blocked from operating.

[0040] In one embodiment, the housing door may be rotatable in the up-and-down direction around a rotation axis provided at the top or bottom of the housing door, and may be guided by the rotation axis to be slidable in the front-and-rear direction.

[0041] In one embodiment, the housing door is provided such that the rotation axis protrudes from the side of the housing door, and the storage housing includes a receiving portion that accommodates the rotation axis, wherein the receiving portion includes a rotational receiving portion provided at the front of the storage housing; and a sliding receiving portion extending rearward from the rotational receiving portion, wherein when the rotation axis is located in the rotational receiving portion, movement in the front-rear direction is restricted and rotation in the up-down direction is possible, and when the rotation axis is located in the sliding receiving portion, the rotation axis is guided in the sliding receiving portion so that the housing door can slide in the front-rear direction.

[0042] In one embodiment, a limiting part that selectively restricts the forward and backward movement of the rotation axis may be provided between the rotation receiving part and the sliding receiving part.

[0043] In one embodiment, the storage housing further includes a mounting slide on which the steam iron is mounted, and the mounting slide may be configured to slide forward and backward through the input opening.

[0044] In one embodiment, the mounting slide may be configured to slide in the forward and backward directions in conjunction with the housing door.

[0045] In one embodiment, when the housing door is in a state where the input port is open and the mounting slide is in a position protruding forward from the input port, the mounting slide can slide backward when the door closes the receiving space.

[0046] In one embodiment, the mounting slide can move from the front to the rear and be positioned outside the rotation range of the door.

[0047] In one embodiment, the housing door can rotate vertically around a rotation axis provided at the bottom of the housing door, and the mounting slide can be provided above the rotation axis.

[0048]

[0049] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the housing door of the storage housing for storing a steam iron is positioned outside the rotation radius of the cabinet door, thereby preventing the problem of discomfort caused by interference between doors when the cabinet door moves in the closing direction during use.

[0050] According to various embodiments of the present invention, a steam iron can be easily withdrawn.

[0051] According to various embodiments of the present invention, damage to the housing door for storing a steam iron can be prevented.

[0052] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the occupied area of ​​the storage housing for storing a steam iron can be increased.

[0053] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the assembly of a storage housing and an inner case for storing a steam iron can be improved.

[0054]

[0055] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a conventional method for storing a steam iron to solve the above problems.

[0056] FIG. 3 illustrates the exterior of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 4 illustrates the interior of the cabinet of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0058] FIG. 5 illustrates the structure of a machine module provided in the machine room of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 6 is a drawing that explains in detail the circulation duct and heat supply unit of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 7 illustrates the installation structure of a steam supply unit that receives water from a water tank.

[0061] FIG. 8 illustrates the exterior of the steam supply unit.

[0062] Figure 9 illustrates the internal structure of the steam supply unit.

[0063] FIG. 10 illustrates a structure for supplying water to the steam supply unit.

[0064] FIG. 11 illustrates the flow path structure of the steam nozzle.

[0065] FIG. 12 illustrates the installation structure of the drainage tank of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0066] FIG. 13 illustrates the lower configuration of the bottom surface of the inner case.

[0067] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing the steam supply structure of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a structure for supplying steam to an iron module in a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a structure for supplying steam to a receiving space of an inner case in a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating a stidarim storage structure according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] FIG. 18 is a side view illustrating the storage structure of a steam iron and the forward and backward movement structure of a housing door according to the above embodiment.

[0072] FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustrating the forward and backward movement structure of a housing door according to the above embodiment.

[0073] FIG. 20 is a drawing illustrating the rotation axis and guide rail of a housing door according to the above embodiment.

[0074] FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating a storage structure of a steam iron according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a steam iron and a refresh module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076]

[0077] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In this specification, identical or similar reference numbers are assigned to identical or similar components even if they are different embodiments, and the description thereof is replaced by the first description. Singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, in describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, such detailed description is omitted. Additionally, it should be noted that the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and should not be interpreted as limiting the technical concept disclosed in this specification. In this specification, the X-axis refers to the front-rear direction of the garment processing device, the Y-axis refers to the width direction of the garment processing device, and the Z-axis refers to the height direction of the garment processing device.

[0078] FIG. 3 illustrates the exterior of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0079] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a cabinet (100) forming an exterior and a door (120) rotatably coupled to the cabinet (100).

[0080] The above door (120) may include a main body (121) forming the front of the cabinet (100) and an installation body (122) extending from one side of the main body (121) and on which a display for displaying information of a clothing processing device can be installed.

[0081] The cabinet (100) may be provided with a height that is longer than the width in the left-right direction and the thickness in the front-back direction. Thus, the clothing processing device can be mounted inside the cabinet (100) without long clothing being folded.

[0082] The above-mentioned installation body (122) can be extended from the main body body (121) toward the rear of the cabinet (100) to form a step.

[0083] The above-mentioned installation body (122) may be provided with a different material or a different color from the above-mentioned main body (122). Additionally, the above-mentioned installation body (122) may be provided with a translucent material through which light emitted from the display can pass.

[0084] A handle (123) may be provided in a stepped area between the above-mentioned installation body (122) and the above-mentioned main body body (121).

[0085] The handle (123) may be provided extending from one side of the main body (121) toward the front of the installation body (122) in parallel with the main body (121). As a result, the handle (123) may be arranged to overlap at least partially with the installation body (122) in the front-rear direction, forming a space that a user can grip.

[0086] The cabinet (100) and the door (120) may be made of metal.

[0087] FIG. 4 illustrates the interior of the cabinet of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0088] Inside the cabinet (100), an inner case (200) may be provided, which has a receiving space (220) for receiving clothing and forms an opening (210) at the front for receiving clothing.

[0089] The inner case (200) is in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped having an opening at the front and may be provided with a height smaller than that of the cabinet (100). By doing so, an area can be secured in which the machine room (300), described later, can be installed at the bottom of the cabinet (100).

[0090] The inner case (200) may be provided with a height greater than its width and thickness. Thus, the clothing can be placed inside the receiving space (220) without being folded or wrinkled.

[0091] The inner case (200) may be provided with a plastic resin series and may be provided with a reinforced plastic resin series that is not deformed by air at a temperature higher than room temperature air or heated air (hereinafter, hot air) and steam or moisture.

[0092] A mounting portion capable of mounting the clothing in the receiving space (220) may be provided on the upper inner surface of the inner case (200). The mounting portion may be provided in the shape of a clothes hanger and may be fixed to the upper surface of the inner case (200). Due to the mounting portion, the clothing may be placed within the receiving space (220) in an unfolded state and in a floating state.

[0093] The above mounting portions may be provided in multiple numbers along the width direction of the inner case (200). Thus, multiple clothing items can be mounted spaced apart from each other inside the inner case (200).

[0094] The above mounting part may be provided as a moving hanger that reciprocates in the width direction or reciprocates and rotates within the inner case (200). The clothing processing device of the present invention can shake the clothing within the inner case due to the above mounting part, and the clothing can be shaken while inside the receiving space (220), allowing foreign substances and dust to be shaken off and wrinkles formed on the clothing to be removed.

[0095] The clothing processing device of the present invention may be equipped with a machine room (300) in which various devices are installed to supply high-temperature air, heated air (hereinafter referred to as hot air) to the receiving space (220), supply one or more steam to the receiving space (220), or purify or dehumidify the external air of the cabinet (100).

[0096] The machine room (300) may be separated from or partitioned from the inner case (200) and configured to communicate with the receiving space (220).

[0097] The machine room (300) can be positioned at the bottom of the inner case (200). Thus, when hot air and steam with low specific gravity are supplied to the inner case (200), the hot air and steam can naturally rise from the receiving space (220) and be supplied to the mounted clothing.

[0098] The inner case (200) can be partitioned and separated from the machine room (300) through the bottom surface (230). However, a plurality of through holes are arranged in the bottom surface (230) to communicate with the machine room (300).

[0099] To this end, the inner case (200) may be provided with a plurality of through holes (235) that penetrate one side and communicate with the machine room (300).

[0100] Air from the receiving space (220) can be supplied to the machine room (300) through the above-mentioned through hole (235), and one or more of the hot air or steam generated in the machine room (300) can be supplied to the receiving space (220).

[0101] The above through hole (235) may include an inlet hole (232) through which air inside the inner case (200) is discharged or sucked into the machine room (300) by penetrating the bottom surface (230) of the inner case (200), and an exhaust hole (231) through which hot air generated in the machine room (300) is discharged by penetrating the bottom surface of the inner case (200).

[0102] The discharge hole (231) may be positioned towards the rear of the lower surface of the inner case (200). Additionally, the inlet hole (232) may be positioned towards the front of the lower surface of the inner case (200). By doing so, a spaced-apart distance between the inlet hole (232) and the discharge hole (231) can be secured on the bottom surface (230) of the inner case (200), and hot air supplied from the discharge hole (231) can be prevented from being discharged directly into the inlet hole (232).

[0103] The above-mentioned through hole (235) may further include a steam hole (233) into which steam generated from the steam supply unit (800), described later, is supplied. It may be positioned closer to the discharge hole (231) than to the inlet hole (232). For example, the steam hole (233) may be positioned on one side of the discharge hole (231). This prevents the steam discharged from the steam hole (233) from flowing directly into the inlet hole (232).

[0104] At the bottom of the inner case (200), a water supply tank (301) for storing water and a drain tank (302) for collecting condensate are provided. A housing door (1230) is provided on the side of the water supply tank (301) and the drain tank (302). When the housing door (1230) is opened, the steam iron (1300) can be accessed.

[0105] The above door (120) can be rotatably coupled to the cabinet (100).

[0106] The height of the door (120) may be provided to correspond to the height of the cabinet (100). Thus, the door (120) may be provided to open and close the opening (210) and may also be provided to shield the machine room (300).

[0107] When the door (120) is closed, the opening (210) and the machine room (300) can be prevented from being exposed to the front.

[0108] The above door (120) may include a door body (121) forming a main body and a sealing member (123) coupled to the inner surface of the door body (121) to seal the opening (210).

[0109] The sealing member (123) may be disposed in an area on the inner surface of the door body (121) facing the perimeter of the opening (210) to seal the opening (210).

[0110] Meanwhile, the door body (121) may include a protective panel (122) that shields the machine room (300) and protects the machine room (300) at the bottom of the sealing member (123) that seals the opening (210).

[0111] The sealing member (123) may also be provided to seal the front perimeter of the machine room (300).

[0112] The door (120) may include a protrusion (125) that protrudes from the interior of the door body (121) and can be inserted into at least a portion of the opening (210).

[0113] The above protrusion (125) may be provided protruding from the door body (121) to the extent that it is positioned in front of the inlet hole (232) when the door (120) closes the opening (210).

[0114] The protrusion (125) may be provided with a width corresponding to the width of the opening (210). The protrusion (125) may be positioned closer to the lower part of the opening (210) or the bottom surface (230) of the inner case (200) than to the top of the door body (121).

[0115] Thus, hot air and steam placed in the receiving space (220) of the inner case can be guided to flow into the inlet hole (232), and can be prevented from flowing out to the outside of the opening (210) and being exposed to the machine room (300).

[0116] The height of the protrusion (125) may be formed to be less than 1 / 3 of the height of the inner case (200), and the thickness of the protrusion (125) protruding from the door body (121) may be formed to be less than the distance from the front edge of the bottom surface (230) to the inlet hole (232).

[0117] The door body (120) may further include a curved surface (124) extending toward the protrusion (125) on its inner surface. The curved surface (124) may be provided in a downwardly convex shape. The curved surface (124) may induce hot air and steam supplied to the receiving space (220) to circulate within the receiving space (220).

[0118] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a pressing part (130) rotatably coupled to the inner surface of the door body (121) to press the clothing, and a fixing part (140) that can support the clothing above the pressing part (130).

[0119] The above-mentioned pressure member (130) is configured to rotate in the width direction of the door (120) so as to apply pressure to the clothing mounted on the fixing member (140).

[0120] Thus, the clothing mounted on the fixed part (140) can be pressed by the pressing part (130) to remove wrinkles from the clothing and to form intended wrinkles on the clothing.

[0121] The curved surface (124) may be provided extending from the lower part of the pressurizing part (130) to the protrusion (125). Thus, when water condensed from clothing mounted on the fixing part (140) flows along the inner surface of the pressurizing part (130) or the door body (121), it flows along the curved surface (124) and is guided to the bottom surface (230), preventing it from moving to the opening (210) or the sealing member (123). As a result, the machine room (300) may be prevented from being contaminated by water, steam, hot air, foreign substances, etc.

[0122] The above protrusion (125) may have an exposed surface positioned parallel to the back surface of the inner case (200), and a lower surface extending from the lower part of the exposed surface may be positioned parallel to the bottom surface (230) of the inner case.

[0123] The exposed surface of the protrusion (125) may be provided with a penetrating surface (126) through which air can enter and exit, and a duct through which air can flow may be provided in the space formed by the protrusion (125), the curved surface (124), and the door body (121).

[0124] The above door body (121) may be provided with a communication hole communicating with the duct in an area corresponding to the pressure part (130) on the inner surface.

[0125] Thus, hot air and steam flowing in the inner case (200) can be introduced into the through hole (126) and discharged through the communication hole, thereby drying the clothing mounted on the pressurizing part (130) or circulating the air inside the inner case (200).

[0126] FIG. 5 illustrates the structure of a machine module provided in the machine room of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0127] The machine room (300) may include a refresh module (T) configured to supply hot air and steam to clothing mounted in the receiving space (220), circulate air inside the receiving space, or circulate air outside the cabinet, and an ironing module (S) including the steam iron (1300).

[0128] The above refresh module (T) may include all devices and configurations configured to supply one or more of hot air and steam inside the inner case (200).

[0129] Specifically, the refresh module (T) may include a base section (310) that arranges a space for supporting or installing the various devices described above in the machine room (300), a circulation duct (320) that is installed in or extends from the base section (310) and provides a path for air inside the inner case (200) or air outside the cabinet (200) to move, a blower section (350) that is mounted on the circulation duct (320) and provides power to move the air, a heat supply section (340) that cools and heats the air moving along the circulation duct (320) to generate hot air, and a steam supply section (800) that is supported by the base section (310) or mounted on the circulation duct (320) and supplies steam inside the inner case (200).

[0130] The above base part (310) may be provided as a plate on which various devices are installed.

[0131] The above circulation duct (320) forms a passageway through which air introduced from outside the inner case (200) or the cabinet (100) moves, and may be provided in the shape of a case with an open top surface.

[0132] The heat supply unit (340) may include a heat exchanger disposed inside the circulation duct (320) to cool the air, condense moisture, and reheat the air, and a compressor disposed outside the circulation duct (320) to receive or supply refrigerant from the heat exchanger.

[0133] The above refresh module (T) may further include an outside air duct (370) that sucks in outside air in front of the circulation duct (320) and guides it into the circulation duct (320).

[0134] The above circulation duct (320) may be configured to communicate with the above outside air duct (370) and optionally to draw in outside air.

[0135] The above water supply tank (301) and the above drainage tank (302) may also be included in the above refresh module (T).

[0136] The water supply tank (301) and the drain tank (302) can be detachably connected to the front of the circulation duct (320). For example, the water supply tank (301) and the drain tank (302) can be placed on the upper part of the outside air duct (370).

[0137] The above circulation duct (320) may be provided by being coupled to the base part (310), but may also be provided integrally with the base part (310). For example, the base part (310) and the circulation duct (320) may be manufactured simultaneously by injection molding.

[0138] The above refresh module (T) may include a base cover (360) configured to communicate the circulation duct (320) and the inlet hole (232).

[0139] The base cover (360) may be provided to be coupled to the upper part of the circulation duct (320) to guide the air sucked in from the inlet hole (232) into the circulation duct (320).

[0140] The base cover (360) can block the air inside the circulation duct (320) from being discharged to the outside by shielding the upper surface of the circulation duct (320). The lower part of the base cover (360) and the upper surface of the circulation duct (320) can form one side of the flow path of the circulation duct (320).

[0141] The base cover (360) may include an inlet section (362) inside that communicates the inlet hole (232) and the circulation duct (320). The inlet section (362) is provided in a duct shape and can function as an intake duct that delivers air from inside the inner case (200) to the circulation duct (320).

[0142] The steam supply unit (800) can be connected to the water tank (301) to receive water and generate steam. The steam supply unit (800) can be positioned on the upper part of the circulation duct (320). The steam supply unit (800) can be positioned at the rear of the base cover (360).

[0143] The above refresh module (T) may further include a steam nozzle (900) that receives steam from the steam supply unit (800) and supplies it into the inner case (200). The steam nozzle (900) may be positioned between the steam supply unit (800) and the steam hole (233).

[0144] Water that is not discharged into the steam hole (233) from the above steam nozzle (900) and is condensed can be recovered back to the steam supply unit (900).

[0145] The blower unit (350) may be configured to communicate with the circulation duct (320) and the discharge hole (231).

[0146] The ironing module (S) may be positioned to the left or right of the refresh module (T) inside the machine room (300). Specifically, the ironing module (S) may be positioned outside the circulation duct (320). Thus, the ironing module (S) may not obstruct the airflow through the circulation duct (320).

[0147] The above ironing module (S) can be arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the circulation duct (320) on one side of the base part (310).

[0148] The above blower unit (350) may include a blower fan (353) that provides power for the air inside the circulation duct (320) to move in one direction, and a fan housing (351) that accommodates the blower fan (353) and is coupled to or extended from the circulation duct (320).

[0149] The above blower unit (350) may be provided with an exhaust duct (352) configured to communicate with the above circulation duct (320) and the above exhaust hole (232).

[0150] The above-mentioned exhaust duct (352) may be provided by extending from the above-mentioned fan housing (351) toward the exhaust hole (231) with a cross-sectional area corresponding to the exhaust hole (231).

[0151] As a result, the air inside the inner case (200) can be introduced through the base cover (360), pass through the circulation duct (320), and then be supplied back into the inner case (200) through the fan installation part (350).

[0152] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a water supply tank (301) that supplies water to the steam supply unit (900) and a drain tank (302) that collects condensed water from the circulation duct (320) or ironing module (S).

[0153] The above water supply tank (301) and the above drainage tank (302) must be selectively separated from the machine room (300) so that the user can easily fill the water supply tank (301) with water and discard the water collected in the drainage tank (302).

[0154] The machine room (300) may further include a detachable part (380) positioned in front of the refresh module (T) to support the water supply tank (301) and the drain tank (302). The detachable part (380) may be detachably coupled to the water supply tank (301) and the drain tank (302).

[0155] The above detachable part (380) is provided in the shape of a plate so as to prevent the inside of the machine room (300) from being exposed.

[0156] A drainage pump (330), etc., may be provided at the lower part of the above-mentioned detachable part (380), and a circulation duct (320) may be provided at the rear of the above-mentioned detachable part (380).

[0157] The ironing module (S) may be placed on one side of either the water supply tank (301) or the drainage tank (302). The ironing module (S) may not be placed between the water supply tank (301) and the drainage tank (302).

[0158] The iron module (S) can be positioned closer to the water supply tank (301) than to the drain tank (302). This allows water to be easily supplied from the water supply tank (301), heated, and delivered to the steam iron (1300), and the structure for receiving water from the water supply tank (301) can be designed simply, and the volume occupied by the structure can be minimized.

[0159] The above iron module (S) includes a housing body (1210) and a housing door (1230). A steam iron (1300) is accommodated in the receiving space of the housing body (1210).

[0160] FIG. 6 is a drawing that explains in detail the circulation duct and heat supply unit of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0161] The above circulation duct (320) can extend from the base bottom to the top to form a flow path through which air flows.

[0162] The heat supply unit (340) may include an evaporator (341) that cools and condenses air moving along the circulation duct (320), a compressor (343) that receives refrigerant from the evaporator (341), compresses and heats it, and a condenser (342) that receives refrigerant from the compressor (343) and heats the air moving along the circulation duct (320).

[0163] The heat supply unit (340) may further include an expansion valve (344) that expands the refrigerant passing through the condenser (342) to lower the temperature of the refrigerant.

[0164] The above evaporator (341) and condenser (342) are placed inside the circulation duct (320), and the compressor (343) can be placed outside the circulation duct (320).

[0165] The above circulation duct (320) may include a heat exchanger installation section (3212) that provides a space for installing an evaporator (341) and a condenser (342). The heat exchanger installation section (3212) may be provided inside the duct body (321).

[0166] The above duct body (321) may be provided with an open top surface. A condenser (343) and an evaporator (341) may be installed by being introduced through the opening of the above duct body (321).

[0167] The opening of the duct body (321) can be covered by the base cover (360), and the base cover (360) and the duct body (321) can form a passage through which air moves inside the circulation passage (320).

[0168] The front surface of the duct body (321) may be spaced apart from the front end of the base bottom part (311) and positioned towards the rear. By doing so, the base bottom part (311) can secure a support surface (3111) on which one or more of the above-described water supply tank (30) or drainage tank (40) and outside air duct (370) are installed and supported.

[0169] Meanwhile, as the above duct body (321) is integrally molded with the base part (310), the height of the heat exchanger installation part (3212) can be secured to be longer, and the height of the condenser (343) and evaporator (341) can also be increased accordingly.

[0170] As a result, the width of the condenser (343) and evaporator (341) in the front-rear direction can be reduced, thereby reducing the number of refrigerant pipes passing through the condenser and evaporator. Additionally, the effect of reducing air flow loss passing through the condenser and evaporator is achieved.

[0171] Meanwhile, the sum of the lengths of the evaporator (341) and the condenser (343) may be smaller than the length of the heat exchanger installation section (3212). Accordingly, the front-rear length of the heat exchanger installation section (3212) may be equal to or smaller than half the length of the duct body (321).

[0172] The blower unit (350) may be arranged to overlap the condenser (343) or the evaporator (341) in the front-rear direction. Accordingly, air passing through the evaporator (341) and the condenser (343) can flow into the blower unit (350) without any bending of the flow path. That is, since there is no bending of the flow path during the process of the air flowing into the circulation duct (320) moving to the blower unit (350), flow loss can be minimized.

[0173] Figure 7 illustrates the installation structure of a steam supply unit that receives water from a water tank.

[0174] The above steam supply unit (800) can be seated and supported on the base cover (360).

[0175] The base cover (360) may include an inlet body (361) coupled to the upper surface of the circulation duct (320) to connect the inner case (200) and the circulation duct (320), and a shielding body (363) extending from the inlet body (361) to shield the upper surface of the circulation duct (320).

[0176] The inlet body (361) may be provided in a duct shape to communicate with the inlet hole (231) of the inner case and the inside of the circulation duct (320). The inlet body (361) may be provided to protrude further upward than the shielding body (363).

[0177] The above-mentioned inlet body (361) may be positioned in front of the evaporator (341) so as not to face the evaporator (341) and the condenser (343).

[0178] The above-mentioned inlet body (361) can function as an inlet duct that moves air from the inner case (200) to the circulation duct (320). The above-mentioned inlet body (361) may be provided with an inlet section (362) through which air from the inner case (200) can pass.

[0179] The above-mentioned inlet section (362) may be provided in a plurality of sections, and a filter may be inserted and installed in one of the sections.

[0180] The above shielding body (363) may include a blocking panel (3631) that blocks the evaporator (341) and the condenser (343) from being exposed to the outside and supports the steam supply unit (800), a power terminal (3632) that extends from the blocking panel (3631) or the inlet body (361) and supplies power to the steam supply unit (800), and a protection panel (3632) that accommodates and protects one of the two sides of the steam supply unit (800).

[0181] A plurality of reinforcing ribs that reinforce rigidity may be provided on the outer surface of the above-mentioned protective panel (3632). This prevents vibrations or shocks generated in the inner case (200) or machine room (300) from being transmitted to the above-mentioned steam supply unit (800).

[0182] The above steam supply unit (800) can be seated and supported on the base cover (360).

[0183] The above steam supply unit (800) may include a steam case (810) that stores water for generating the steam.

[0184] The steam supply unit (800) may further include an installation bracket (870) capable of fixing the steam case (810) to the base cover (360).

[0185] The above installation bracket (870) can be coupled to the base cover (360) to secure the steam case (810).

[0186] The above-mentioned installation bracket (870) may include a lower panel (871) that supports the lower surface of the steam case (810) and side panels (872) that support both sides of the steam case (810) from the lower panel (871).

[0187] The above-mentioned installation bracket (870) may further include a support panel (873) that extends stepwise from the lower panel (871) to support the lower surface of the steam case (810). Thus, the lower panel (871) can accommodate and support a portion of the bottom surface of the steam case (810).

[0188] The compressor (343) may be positioned below the steam supply unit (800).

[0189] The above-mentioned mounting bracket (870) may be provided to block heat generated from the compressor or heat generated from the refrigerant compressed in the compressor from being transferred to the steam supply unit (800).

[0190] The above installation bracket (870) can also prevent the fire from spreading to the steam supply unit (800) in the event that a fire occurs in the compressor (343).

[0191] Meanwhile, the base cover (360) may include a fastening part (3631) provided on the shielding body (363) and detachably coupled to the steam supply part (800). The fastening part (3631) may be provided with a structure that detachably coupled to a protrusion protruding from the lower part of the steam case (810).

[0192] Thus, even if a large amount of water is contained inside the steam case (810), the steam case (810) can be stably seated on the base cover (360).

[0193] In addition, since the steam case (810) is positioned above the circulation duct (320) so that the distance to the inner case (200) is shorter, the condensation of steam generated in the steam case (810) before reaching the inner case (200) can be minimized.

[0194] Meanwhile, the refresh module (T) may further include a main control unit (700) that supplies power to the heat supply unit (340) and the steam supply unit (800) or controls the heat supply unit (340) and the steam supply unit (800).

[0195] The main control unit (700) can be placed inside the machine room (300). This allows the volume of the inner case (200) to be maximized.

[0196] The above main control unit (700) can be mounted on the base unit (310).

[0197] The above main control unit (700) can be placed outside the circulation duct (320).

[0198] In addition, the main control unit (700) is configured to control all electronically controlled components, such as the compressor (343), the steam supply unit (800), and the blower fan (353), and can perform various courses and options for processing clothing.

[0199] The above main control unit (700) may be provided as a PCB board, but is not limited thereto and may be provided as various devices for control.

[0200] FIG. 8 illustrates the exterior of the steam supply unit.

[0201] The above steam supply unit (800) may include a steam case (810) capable of receiving and storing water to generate steam, and a heater unit (840) housed in the steam case (810) to heat the water and generate steam.

[0202] The steam case (810) may be provided in the form of a case with an open top and may be provided to accommodate the heater part (840).

[0203] The steam supply unit (800) may further include a case cover (820) that is coupled to the steam case (810) to prevent the heater unit (840) from being exposed to the outside and to prevent the water from leaking out.

[0204] The above case cover (820) may be equipped with a water level sensor (850) for detecting the water level of the steam case (810) and a steam sensor (860) for detecting the temperature inside the steam case (810) or for detecting whether steam has been generated inside the steam case (810).

[0205] Figure 9 illustrates the internal structure of the steam supply unit.

[0206] The above steam case (810) may include a case body (811) that provides a space for storing water and accommodating a heater unit (840).

[0207] The above case body (811) may be provided with a shape in which the top is open. By doing so, various parts can be easily installed inside the case body (811).

[0208] The above case body (811) may include a heater insertion hole (815) through which one side is penetrated so that the heater (840) can be inserted or withdrawn.

[0209] The above case body (811) may include a residual water pipe (813) capable of discharging water contained inside to the outside. The residual water pipe (813) may be kept closed by a residual water plug so as to be opened only when removing residual water inside the steam case (810).

[0210] Meanwhile, a heater fixing part (812) capable of supporting or fixing the heater part (840) may be installed inside the case body (811).

[0211] Meanwhile, the steam supply unit (800) may be equipped with a return pipe (824) for receiving water. The return pipe (824) is configured to receive water by being connected to the water supply tank (301), and may be connected to the water supply tank (301) through the steam nozzle (900).

[0212] The above recovery pipe (824) may be provided in the case cover (820). By doing so, water can be stored in the entire steam case (800), and backflow of water through the recovery pipe (824) can be prevented.

[0213] The steam supply unit (800) may be equipped with a steam pipe (823) that discharges steam generated by the operation of the heater unit (840) to the outside. The steam pipe (823) may also be provided on the upper part of the case cover (820) to block water from being discharged into the steam pipe (823). The steam pipe (823) may be connected to the steam nozzle (900).

[0214] The above water level sensor (850) may include a sensor body (851) having one or more contact protrusions that are inserted into the water level sensor hole (854) and immersed in water to detect the water level, and a fixing member (852) that fixes the sensor body (851) to the case cover (820).

[0215] The steam sensor (860) may include a sensing part (861) that detects a change in temperature or pressure inside the steam case (810), a support plate (862) that supports the sensing part (861), and a fastening member (862) that fixes the support plate (862) to the case cover (820).

[0216] Meanwhile, the steam supply unit (800) may further include a fixing plate (871) that is coupled to the case cover (820) to fix the heater unit (840), and a coupling member (872) that fixes the fixing plate (871) to the case cover (820).

[0217] The above case cover (820) may further include a cover hook (821) that extends forward and can be coupled to the base cover (360).

[0218] The heater unit (840) may be inserted into the heater insertion hole (815), accommodated in the steam case (810), and supplied with power to heat water.

[0219] The heater unit (840) may be equipped with a sheath heater, etc., and may be controlled by the main control unit (700) so that operation and stopping can be repeated.

[0220] The heater unit (840) may include a first heater (841) that heats water by receiving a first power supply, and a second heater (842) that heats water by receiving a power supply smaller than the first power supply. Consequently, the first heater (841) may be configured to heat a larger amount of water than the second heater (842) to generate more steam.

[0221] The first heater (841) and the second heater (842) may be configured to divide and consume the maximum heater power allowed in the heater section (840) of the clothing processing device. That is, if the first heater (841) is configured to consume a portion of the maximum heater power, the second heater (842) may be configured to consume the remainder of the maximum heater power.

[0222] For example, if the typical maximum heater power that can be allowed in the heater unit (840) is 1500W, the second heater (842) may be configured to consume 600W, and the first heater (841) may be configured to consume 880W. The 20W may be distributed less, taking into account errors, etc.

[0223] Of course, the heater unit (840) may include three or more heaters. For example, it may include the first heater (841), the second heater (842), and the third heater (843), and the first heater (841), the second heater (842), and the third heater (843) may be configured to divide and consume the maximum heater power amount.

[0224] Below, the heater unit (340) is described based on the assumption that it is equipped with the first heater (841) and the second heater (842).

[0225] The first heater (841) and the second heater (842) can be formed as U-shaped metal tubes.

[0226] The heater unit (840) may further include a heater sealer (843) capable of fixing the first heater (841) and the second heater (842) and sealing the heater through hole (8111).

[0227] The first heater (841) and the second heater (842) can be positioned at the same height. Accordingly, the first heater (841) and the second heater (842) can be configured to heat water at the same level to generate steam.

[0228] Thus, the main control unit (700) can adjust the amount of steam generated and the amount of power consumed by selectively using the first heater (841) and the second heater (842).

[0229] FIG. 10 illustrates a structure for supplying water to the steam supply unit.

[0230] The steam generated inside the steam case (810) can be supplied directly into the inner case (200) through the steam pipe (823).

[0231] However, if steam is supplied directly into the inner case (200) through the steam pipe (823), there is a risk that the water contained in the steam case (810) will also be discharged into the inner case (200). In addition, there is a risk that the water heated in the steam case (810) will heat the bottom surface of the inner case (200), causing the inner case (200) to be heat-damaged.

[0232] To prevent this, the steam supply unit (800) of the present invention may further include a steam nozzle (900) that receives steam generated in the steam case (810) and supplies it to the inner case (200).

[0233] The steam nozzle (900) may be positioned apart from the steam case (810) and may be configured to receive only steam formed in the steam case (810) and not receive water contained in the steam case (810).

[0234] For example, the steam nozzle (900) may be positioned above the steam case (810) and connected to a steam pipe (823). Thus, the steam generated in the steam case (810) rises due to the difference in density and is supplied to the steam nozzle (900) along the steam pipe (823), and the water contained in the steam case (810) may not be able to flow into the steam pipe (833) or the steam nozzle (900) due to gravity.

[0235] The steam nozzle (900) may be positioned between the bottom surface of the inner case (200) and the steam case (810), and may be provided to communicate with the steam hole (233).

[0236] Meanwhile, the steam supply unit (800) of the present invention is configured to generate steam by receiving water from the water supply tank (301).

[0237] To this end, the clothing processing device of the present invention may include a water supply unit (880) that supplies water contained in the water supply tank (301) to the steam supply unit (800).

[0238] The above water supply unit (880) may include a water supply pump (881) that provides pressure to supply water supplied to the water supply tank (301) to the steam supply unit (800) or the steam nozzle (900), a supply pipe (882) that is connected to the water supply tank (301) and delivers water to the water supply pump (881), and a connecting pipe (883) that connects the water supply pump (880) and the steam nozzle (900).

[0239] The supply pipe (882) may be provided as a hose connecting the water tank (301) and the water pump (881), and the connecting pipe (883) may be provided as a hose connected to the water pump (881).

[0240] The clothing processing device of the present invention may be configured to supply water contained in the water tank (301) to the steam nozzle (900) rather than to the steam case (810).

[0241] The above water supply pump (881) may not be directly connected to the above steam case (810).

[0242] The steam nozzle (900) can receive water through the connecting pipe (883) and then supply water to the steam supply unit (800) through the water supply pipe (884). The water supply pipe (884) can be connected to the recovery pipe (824).

[0243] Since the steam nozzle (900) is positioned above the steam case (810), water supplied to the steam nozzle (900) can be automatically supplied to the steam case (810) through the water supply pipe (884).

[0244] The steam pipe (823) through which steam flows into the steam nozzle (900) and the recovery pipe (824) through which water is discharged from the steam nozzle (900) may be provided as separate flow paths. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the water supplied from the steam nozzle (900) from obstructing the movement of the steam supplied from the steam case (810).

[0245] Meanwhile, the water supply pipe (884) may be provided in a U-shape. That is, the middle section of the water supply pipe (884) may be positioned at a lower height than both ends. As a result, a certain amount of water, such as a water trap, may be accumulated in the water supply pipe (884), thereby preventing the re-entry of steam or water supplied from the steam case (810) through the water supply pipe (884).

[0246] In addition, since the steam case (810) is not directly connected to the water supply pump (881), the possibility of water flowing into the steam case (810) backflowing to the water supply pump (881) can also be prevented.

[0247] In addition, a large amount of water can be supplied to the steam nozzle (900) at a significant pressure through the water supply pump (810). As a result, foreign substances accumulated in the steam nozzle (900) or bacteria that are multiplying can be washed away by the water supplied to the steam nozzle (900) and go down into the steam case (810). Therefore, the steam nozzle (900) can always be kept clean.

[0248] Meanwhile, when the steam supplied from the steam nozzle (900) is condensed, the condensed water can be recirculated into the steam case (810) through the water supply pipe (884). That is, the condensed water generated from the steam nozzle (900) can be recovered into the steam case (810) in the same direction as the water supplied from the water supply pump (800), and can be recycled as water to generate the steam. Therefore, the clothing processing device of the present invention can prevent the water level of the water supply tank (301) from rapidly decreasing and can also prevent water waste.

[0249] FIG. 11 illustrates the flow path structure of the steam nozzle.

[0250] The above steam nozzle (900) may include a supply container (910) capable of receiving steam from the steam case (810) or water from the water supply pump (881).

[0251] The above supply container (910) may be provided in the shape of a case having an internal space capable of receiving and accommodating water or steam.

[0252] The above connecting pipe (883) can be connected to the supply container (910) at a height higher than the bottom surface of the supply container (910). For example, the connecting pipe (883) can be attached to the side of the supply container (910). By doing so, backflow of water supplied to the supply container (910) into the connecting pipe (883) can be prevented.

[0253] The above connecting pipe (883) can be connected to the supply container (910) at a higher position than the recovery pipe (824). For example, one end of the recovery pipe (824) may be connected to the bottom surface of the supply container (910), and the other end may be connected to the steam case (810). In this way, water supplied to the water supply pipe (883) can be automatically introduced into the recovery pipe (824). Additionally, the recovery pipe (824) may be provided in a U-shape to accommodate a certain amount of water inside.

[0254] Meanwhile, the recovery pipe (824) may be positioned adjacent to the water supply pipe (883). This allows water supplied through the water supply pipe (883) to flow quickly into the steam case (810) without remaining in the supply container (810).

[0255] Meanwhile, one end of the steam pipe (823) may be connected to the lower part of the supply container (910), and the other end may be connected to the upper part of the steam case (810) or the steam cover (820). Thus, steam generated in the steam case (810) can be automatically supplied to the supply container (910) due to the difference in density.

[0256] The steam pipe (823) may be connected to a location higher than the return pipe (815) in the supply container (910). Additionally, the steam pipe (823) may be positioned further from the water supply pipe (883) than the return pipe (824).

[0257] Thus, the water supplied to the supply container (910) can be supplied more to the recovery pipe (824) without flowing back into the steam pipe (823).

[0258] The above steam pipe (823) can be connected to the bottom surface of the supply container (910) through a steam hose (885).

[0259] The bottom surface of the supply container (910) may be configured such that the portion where the recovery pipe (824) is installed is lower, and the portion connected to the steam hose (885) is higher. To this end, a step may be formed on the bottom surface of the supply container (910), or it may be provided at an angle.

[0260] The steam nozzle (900) may further include a container cover (920) coupled to the upper part of the supply container (910). The container cover (920) may include a steam injection hole (921) provided through the upper part. The steam injection hole (921) may be provided to communicate with the interior of the inner case (200).

[0261] The supply container (910) may be provided in the form of a box with an open top, and the container cover (920) may be provided to cover the top of the supply container (910).

[0262] The steam supplied through the steam pipe (823) can be discharged through the steam injection hole (921) and supplied into the inner case (200).

[0263] The steam pipe (823) may be positioned between the steam injection hole (921) and the inner surface of the supply container (910). The steam injection hole (921) may be positioned between the water supply pipe (883) and the steam pipe (823), and between the recovery pipe (824) and the steam pipe (823). Thus, condensed steam that is not discharged through the steam injection hole (921) can be discharged through the recovery pipe (824) without remaining inside the supply container (910).

[0264] The steam injection hole (921) can be positioned in the center based on the width direction of the container cover (920).

[0265] Since the supply container (910) is provided with an open top, it may be advantageous to install various shapes or structures inside, and the container cover (920) may be advantageous to install various structures at the bottom.

[0266] The steam nozzle (900) may include a fastening part (930) that connects the container cover (920) and the supply container (910).

[0267] Based on the steam injection hole (921), the water supply pipe (883) and the recovery pipe (824) are positioned on one side of the supply container (910), and the steam pipe (823) is positioned on the other side of the supply container (910).

[0268] That is, the water supply pipe (883) and the recovery pipe (824) are arranged adjacent to each other, and the steam pipe (823) can be arranged further from the water supply pipe (883) than the recovery pipe (8245).

[0269] Thus, water moving through the water supply pipe (883) can be supplied to the supply container (910) along direction I. The water supplied to the supply container (910) can be immediately discharged to the recovery pipe (824) along direction II and supplied to the steam case (810). Steam supplied from the steam pipe (823) can be supplied to the supply container (910) along direction III and discharged through the steam injection hole (921), and the condensed water can be discharged to the recovery pipe (824) along direction II and resupplied to the steam case (810).

[0270] The above supply container (910) may further include an input pipe (912) that is coupled to the water supply pipe (883) to receive water, and a hose pipe (911) that is coupled to the steam hose (883) to receive steam.

[0271] FIG. 12 illustrates the installation structure of the drainage tank of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0272] The above drainage container (302) may be provided in the shape of a box for storing water.

[0273] The above drainage container (302) may be provided with a supply hole for receiving water on the back surface, and the supply hole may be positioned closer to the top than to the bottom surface of the drainage container (302).

[0274] The above detachable part (380) may include a load support part (381) on which one or more of the drainage tank (302), the water supply tank (301), and the iron module (S) can be supported, and a detachable support part (382) positioned in front of the circulation duct (320) on the load support part (381) on which the drainage tank (302) and the water supply tank (301) can be seated.

[0275] The load support member (381) is provided in a plate shape to support the lower surface of the water supply tank (301) and the drainage tank (302), and the detachable support member (382) is also provided in a plate shape to support the rear surface of the water supply tank (301) and the drainage tank (302).

[0276] The above detachable part (380) may include a detachable separation part (383) protruding from the load support part (381) so as to be positioned between the water supply tank (301) and the drain tank (302). The detachable separation part (383) can separate the water supply tank (301) and the drain tank (302) by a certain distance. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the other one of the water supply tank (301) and the drain tank (202) from being arbitrarily withdrawn when either the water supply tank (301) or the drain tank (302) is withdrawn.

[0277] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a drainage unit (330) for collecting water condensed in the circulation duct (320) into a drainage tank (302).

[0278] The above drainage section (330) may include a drainage pump (331) that receives water from the guide pipe (3263) and a drainage hose (333) that receives water from the drainage pump (331) and guides it to the drainage tank (302).

[0279] The drainage section (330) of the present invention may further include a discharge pipe (334) connecting the drainage hose (333) and the drainage container (302). The discharge pipe (334) may be provided to receive water from the drainage hose (333) and guide it into the drainage container (302).

[0280] Meanwhile, the discharge pipe (334) may be directly connected to the drain hose (333) or may be provided integrally with the drain hose (333).

[0281] However, the clothing processing device of the present invention may install the discharge pipe (334) in the circulation duct (320) so that water can be continuously supplied even when the water level inside the drainage tank (302) reaches full capacity, and the circulation duct (320) may be provided to receive backflowing water from the discharge pipe (334) or the drainage tank (302) back into the interior.

[0282] Thus, the above circulation duct (320) and the water reservoir (326) can temporarily perform the function of a drainage tank (302) to expand the water storage capacity. As a result, water can be prevented from overflowing outside the drainage tank (302).

[0283] For example, the detachable part (380) may include a detachable connecting part (384) that penetrates the detachable support part (382) to allow the drain hose (333) and the drain container (302) to be connected.

[0284] The above detachable connecting part (384) may be formed in an area facing the supply hole provided in the drainage container when the drainage container (302) is seated on the load support part (381).

[0285] The discharge pipe (334) may be provided by extending from the circulation duct (320) or by extending from the detachable part (380). The discharge pipe (334) may be provided as an injection molded product. By doing so, the discharge pipe (334) can stably fix the end of the drain hose (333) and prevent the drain hose (333) from being abruptly bent.

[0286] Additionally, the discharge pipe (334) is provided as a pipe-shaped injection molded part that is fixed to the circulation duct (320) or the support (380), so that the installation position can always be fixed. As a result, the end of the discharge pipe (334) and the supply hole provided in the drainage tank (302) are always positioned in the correct location, so that the condensate supplied from the drainage pump (331) can stably flow into the drainage tank (302).

[0287] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a backflow section (335) that allows the water contained inside the drainage tank (302) to flow back to the circulation duct (320) or the residual water treatment section (330).

[0288] The above backflow section (335) may be provided at the lower part of the discharge pipe (334) and configured to communicate with the inside of the circulation duct (320) and the drainage tank (302). The above backflow section (335) may be configured to guide water inside the drainage tank (302) into the inside of the circulation duct (320).

[0289] FIG. 13 illustrates the lower configuration of the bottom surface of the inner case.

[0290] The above-mentioned bottom surface (230) can introduce air from inside the inner case (200) into the circulation duct (320) through the inlet hole (232), and can receive dehumidified and heated air passing through the circulation duct (320) through the discharge hole (231). Additionally, it can receive steam supplied from the steam supply unit (800) through the steam hole (233).

[0291] However, the bottom surface (230) can block air, moisture, and foreign substances inside the inner case (200) from leaking into the machine room (300), except for the through holes.

[0292] A detachable part (380) is provided in front of the machine room (300) to prevent external air, moisture, or foreign substances from entering the machine room (300).

[0293] The clothing processing device of the present invention may install the ironing module (S) in the machine room (300). By doing so, the ironing module (S) can be prevented from being exposed to air, moisture, and foreign substances inside the inner case (200).

[0294] Additionally, the machine room (300) can be positioned and installed independently of the inner case (200) by having its entire configuration located below the floor surface (230). As a result, the machine room (300) can be manufactured as a module and installed in the cabinet (100).

[0295] The ironing module (S) can be installed in the machine room (300) in a modular manner. Accordingly, the ironing module (S) can also be selectively installed in the machine room (300) without affecting the internal configuration of the machine room (300) and the cabinet (100).

[0296] Therefore, even if the clothing processing device of the present invention is a product that is not equipped with the ironing module (S), the ironing module (S) can be installed in the machine room (300) at a later date.

[0297] The ironing module (S) may be positioned offset to one of the two sides of the machine room (300). Interference between the ironing module (S) and existing components, such as the circulation duct (320), may be minimized.

[0298] The above ironing module (S) may include an ironing storage unit (1200) capable of storing a steam iron (1300) that supplies one or more of heat and steam to the clothing inside a machine room (300), a heating module that generates one or more of heat and steam supplied to the steam iron (1300), and a control module (1500) that controls the steam iron (1300).

[0299] It can be placed at the bottom of the inner case (200) of the iron storage unit (1200). The iron storage unit (1200) may include a storage housing (1210) provided in the machine room and a housing door (1230) placed at the front.

[0300] In an embodiment, the control module (1500) may be positioned at the rear of the iron storage unit (1200). A refresh module (T) is provided on the side of the control module (1500) and the iron storage unit (1200).

[0301] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing the steam supply structure of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0302] The water tank (301) supplies water to the steam supply unit (800). The steam supply unit (800) and the water tank (301) can each be connected via two paths. The first path is a path for high-pressure steam, and is equipped with a high-pressure pump (2200). The second path is a path for low-pressure steam, and is equipped with a low-pressure pump (881).

[0303] The steam supply unit (800) can selectively supply steam to the steam iron (1300) and the steam nozzle (900). The selective supply of steam can be controlled by a valve. A first valve (2810) is provided in the steam pipe connecting the steam nozzle (900) and the steam supply unit (800). A second valve (2820) is provided in the steam pipe connecting the steam iron (1300) and the steam supply unit (800). The first valve (2810) and the second valve (2820) may be provided as solenoid valves.

[0304] The steam nozzle (900) supplies steam into the receiving space inside the inner case (200). Therefore, the steam supplied to the steam nozzle (900) is low-pressure steam. It is desirable for the steam iron (300) to supply high-pressure steam so that wrinkles in the clothing can be removed quickly.

[0305] In the embodiment, the garment processing device can supply steam to both the inside of the inner case (200) and the steam iron (1300) through a single water tank (301).

[0306] In the embodiment, the steam supply unit (800) can selectively supply steam to the steam iron (1300) or the inner case (200). When steam is supplied to the steam iron (1300), the high-pressure steam pump (2200) is driven and the second valve (2820) is opened. When steam is supplied to the inner case (200), it is supplied through the steam nozzle (900), the low-pressure steam pump (881) is driven, and the first valve (2810) is opened.

[0307] Meanwhile, the first valve (2810) and the second valve (2820) may be provided in the form of a single integrated three-way valve. That is, it is sufficient if steam can be selectively supplied to a steam iron (1300) or a steam nozzle (900).

[0308] The first valve (2810), second valve (2820), high-pressure steam pump (2200), and low-pressure steam pump (881) can be controlled by the control unit (700).

[0309] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a structure for supplying steam to an iron module in a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0310] When one or more of the above door opening or the above refresh module (T) operation termination occurs, the first valve (2810) blocks communication between the water tank (301) and the steam nozzle (900), and the second valve (2820) can be controlled to allow communication between the water tank (301) and the steam iron (1300).

[0311] With the second valve (2820) connected to the water tank (301) and the steam iron (1300), the high-pressure pump (2200) can transfer water from the water tank (301) to the steam generating unit (800).

[0312] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a structure for supplying steam to a receiving space of an inner case in a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0313] When one or more of the above door closing and the above refresh module (T) operating occurs, the first valve (2810) can be opened to allow communication between the water tank (301) and the steam nozzle (900), and the second valve (2820) can be controlled to block communication between the water tank (301) and the steam iron (1300).

[0314] With the first valve (2810) connected to the water supply tank (301) and the steam nozzle (900), the low-pressure pump (881) can transfer water from the water supply tank (301) to the steam generating unit (800).

[0315] FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating a storage structure for a styrofoam iron according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0316] The steam iron (1300) can be housed and stored in a storage housing (1210). An opening is formed in the front of the storage housing (1210). The storage housing (1210) can be exposed to the front of the machine room (300). Thus, the steam iron (1300) can be pulled out to the front of the machine room (300) to access the clothing.

[0317] In this case, unlike the previous embodiment, a housing door (1230) is provided in front of the iron storage unit (1200). The housing door (1230) may be provided in a position parallel to the water supply tank (301) and the drain tank (301). The housing door (1230) may be provided to open by rotating from top to bottom in the I direction. The housing door (1230) may be opened horizontally with respect to the floor by rotating 90 degrees.

[0318] The housing door (1230) can move backward in the II direction while in an open state. The movement backward can be slid along a guide rail.

[0319] The housing door (1230) can slide forward and backward through the input opening (1220). When the storage door (1220) moves backward, it is positioned outside the rotation range of the door (120), so interference with the door (120) can be prevented.

[0320] As the housing door (1230) is provided to be movable in the forward and backward directions, the storage housing (1210) can be provided to be long in the forward and backward directions, and as a result, the rear space of the storage housing (1210) can be narrowed. Therefore, rather than providing a separate steam generating unit (2100) for the steam iron (1300), it is preferable to provide a shared steam supply unit (800). Meanwhile, a control module (1500) may be provided at the rear of the storage housing (1210).

[0321] FIG. 18 is a side view illustrating the storage structure of a steam iron and the forward and backward movement structure of a housing door according to the above embodiment. FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustrating the forward and backward movement structure of a housing door according to the above embodiment.

[0322] A rotation axis (1232) may protrude from the housing door (1230). The rotation axis (1232) is combined with a guide rail (1212) and can function as a guide for the housing door (1230) when the housing door (1230) moves in the forward and backward directions.

[0323] FIG. 20 is a drawing illustrating the rotation axis (1232) and guide rail (1212) of the housing door according to the above embodiment.

[0324] Refer to FIG. 20(a). The housing door (1230) is provided with a rotation axis (1232) protruding laterally.

[0325] Refer further to FIG. 20(b). When the rotation axis (1232) is located in the rotation receiving portion (1212a) on the guide rail (1212), movement in the forward and backward directions is restricted by the rotation receiving portion (1212a), allowing it to rotate in the up and down direction. In an embodiment, the rotation axis (1232) is provided at the bottom of the housing door (1230) and can be opened by rotating from the top to the bottom.

[0326] The guide rail (1212) may further include a limiting portion (1212b) that separates the sliding receiving portion (1212c) and the rotation receiving portion (1212a). The limiting portion (1212b) may restrict movement in the forward and backward directions when the rotation axis (1232) is positioned in the rotation receiving portion (1212a) and rotates in the up and down direction. The limiting portion (1212b) may be formed in the shape of a protrusion.

[0327] In the embodiment, the cross-section of the rotation axis (1232) may be provided as a cut circle. When the housing door (1230) is in a fully open state, the height of the rotation axis (1232) is lowered to pass through the limiting part (1212b), so that it can slide forward and backward through the limiting part (1212b).

[0328] Meanwhile, the housing door (1230) can be rotated 90 degrees from bottom to top and opened horizontally with the floor, and can be moved backward and positioned outside the rotation range of the door (120). In this case, the rotation axis (1232) is provided at the top of the housing door (1230), and the guide rail (1212) is also provided at the top of the storage housing (1210).

[0329] FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating a storage structure of a steam iron according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0330] Refer to FIG. 21(a). The iron module (S) may further include a mounting slide (1241) for mounting a steam iron (1300). The mounting slide (1241) may slide forward and backward. The steam iron (1300) may be mounted on the mounting slide (1241). The mounting slide (1241) may include a handle (1241a) that the user can grasp when pulled out.

[0331] The housing door (1230) can be opened by rotating it up and down as in the previous embodiment, and the steam iron (1300) can be pulled out by pulling out the mounting slide (1241) while the housing door (1230) is open. The mounting slide (1241) can move forward and backward along the guide rail (1214). The pulled-out mounting slide (1241) may be supported by the housing door (1230).

[0332] The housing door (1230) can be slid forward and backward to move to the rear. When the housing door (1230) moves to the rear, the housing door (1230) is positioned outside the rotation radius of the door (120), thereby not interfering with the door (120).

[0333] Meanwhile, when the housing door (1230) is in an open state and protrudes forward more than the input opening (1220), if the door (120) moves to a position that closes the receiving space and interference occurs between the housing door (1230) and the door (120), the housing door (1230) may be configured to move backward.

[0334] In an embodiment, when the housing door (1230) moves backward, the mounting slide (1241) may also be configured to move backward in dependence thereon.

[0335] FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a steam iron and a refresh module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0336] The steam iron (1300) is set so that operation is stopped or blocked when the door (120) is closed. And the refresh module (T) is set so that it can operate when the door is closed.

[0337] The steam iron (1300) is configured to operate when the door (120) is open, and the refresh module (T) is blocked from operating when the door is closed.

[0338] In an embodiment, the method includes the step (S1) of detecting the opening of the door (120).

[0339] When the door (120) is open (S2-1), the steam iron (1300) is set to operate, and the refresh module (T) blocks operation (S2-2).

[0340] When the door (120) is closed (S3-1), the steam iron (1300) is shut off and the refresh module (T) is set to be operable (S3-2).

[0341] The present invention may be modified and implemented in various forms, and its scope of rights is not limited to the embodiments described above. Therefore, if a modified embodiment includes the components of the claims of the present invention, it should be considered to fall within the scope of rights of the present invention.

Claims

1. Cabinet; A door rotatably coupled to the above cabinet; An inner case forming a storage space for holding clothing; A refresh module comprising: a circulation duct disposed at the lower part of the inner case and providing a flow path for air inside the inner case to circulate; a heat supply unit for heating the air flowing along the circulation duct; and a steam supply unit configured to supply steam inside the inner case; A storage housing positioned at the bottom of the inner case, having an iron storage space for accommodating a steam iron that supplies steam to the surface of clothing, and having an input opening formed at the front; A housing door provided at the front of the storage housing to open and close the input port; A clothing processing device characterized in that the housing door is configured to slide forward and backward through the input opening while the input opening is open.

2. In Paragraph 1, A clothing processing device characterized by the above housing door moving from the front to the rear and being positioned outside the rotation range of the door.

3. In Paragraph 2, With the above housing door in the state where the above input port is open, A clothing processing device characterized by the fact that when the housing door is in a position protruding forward from the input opening, the housing door slides backward when the door closes the receiving space.

4. In Paragraph 1, A clothing processing device characterized in that when the door is closed, the steam iron is set to stop or be cut off from operation, and the refresh module is set to be operable.

5. In Paragraph 4, A garment processing device characterized in that when the above door is opened, the above steam iron is set to be operable and the above refresh module is set to be blocked from operation.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above housing door is The housing door can rotate vertically around a rotation axis provided at the top or bottom, and A clothing processing device characterized by being guided by the above-mentioned rotation axis and configured to be capable of sliding in the forward and backward directions.

7. In Paragraph 6, The above housing door is The above-mentioned rotational axis is provided to protrude from the side of the housing door, and The above storage housing includes a receiving portion that accommodates the rotation axis, and The above receiving part A rotational receiving portion provided at the front of the storage housing; and It includes a sliding receiving portion extending rearward from the above-mentioned rotating receiving portion, and When the above-mentioned rotation axis is located in the above-mentioned rotation receiving part, movement in the forward and backward directions is restricted, and rotation in the up and down direction is possible. A clothing processing device characterized in that when the above-mentioned rotational axis is located in the above-mentioned sliding receiving portion, the rotational axis is guided in the above-mentioned sliding receiving portion so that the housing door is configured to slide in the forward and backward directions.

8. In Paragraph 7, Between the above-mentioned rotational receiving part and the above-mentioned sliding receiving part A clothing processing device characterized by having a limiting part that selectively restricts the forward and backward movement of the above-mentioned rotation axis.

9. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a mounting slide provided in the storage housing above, on which the steam iron is mounted, and A clothing processing device characterized by the above-mentioned mounting slide being configured to slide forward and backward through the above-mentioned input opening.

10. In Paragraph 9, A clothing processing device characterized by the above-mentioned mounting slide being configured to slide in the forward and backward directions in conjunction with the above-mentioned housing door.

11. In Paragraph 10, With the above housing door in the state where the above input port is open, A clothing processing device characterized in that when the mounting slide is in a position protruding forward from the input opening, the mounting slide slide slides backward when the door closes the receiving space.

12. In Paragraph 11, A clothing processing device characterized by the above-mentioned mounting slide moving from the front to the rear and positioning itself outside the rotational range of the above-mentioned door.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above housing door is It is rotatable in the up and down direction around a rotation axis provided at the bottom of the housing door, and A clothing processing device characterized in that the above-mentioned mounting slide is provided above the above-mentioned rotation axis.

Images