Clothing treatment apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to a clothing treating apparatus comprising: a cabinet comprising a base; a tub flexibly supported inside the cabinet with regard to the base so as to store water; a drum provided inside the tub to accommodate clothing; a driving unit coupled to the tub to rotate the drum; a circulation duct fixedly supported by the cabinet so as to form a channel to circulate air inside the tub; and a heat exchanger for dehumidifying and heating air passing through the circulation duct. The heat exchanger includes: an evaporator provided in the circulation duct to dehumidify the air; a condenser provided in the circulation duct to heat air that has passed through the evaporator; a compressor provided in the base to circulate a refrigerant to the evaporator and the condenser; and an expansion valve located on a channel along which the refrigerant moves, thereby decompressing the refrigerant supplied to the evaporator. A valve supporter is formed on one side of the circulation duct to support the expansion valve.

Description

Clothing processing device

[0001] The present invention relates to a garment processing device, and more specifically, to a garment processing device capable of performing processes such as sterilization, wrinkle removal, deodorization, and drying of garments by supplying steam and hot air to the garments.

[0002] A garment processing device refers to a washing machine that washes items such as clothing through a washing process and a dryer that dries items through a drying process. Generally, while washing machines and dryers may be provided as separate devices, there are garment processing devices capable of performing washing and drying simultaneously to overcome space constraints and enhance user convenience.

[0003] For the execution of laundry administration, the garment processing device is equipped with a cabinet, a tub for storing water, a drum providing a space for accommodating the object to be processed, a drive unit fixed to the tub for rotating the drum, a support unit for supporting the tub, a water supply unit for supplying water to the tub, and a drainage unit for draining water from the tub.

[0004] Meanwhile, for the execution of the drying process, the garment processing device is equipped with a circulation path section that draws air from inside the tub and recirculates it to the tub, and a heat exchanger section provided in the path section that sequentially performs dehumidification and heating of the air.

[0005] In other words, among conventional clothing processing devices, there was one equipped with both a washing process device and a drying process device inside the cabinet, allowing the user to selectively perform the washing and drying processes according to their convenience.

[0006] In the conventional clothing processing device according to the above-described technology, components such as a tub, a drum, a circulation channel, and a heat exchanger are arranged in a very complex configuration within a cabinet forming the exterior, in the space between the cabinet and the tub.

[0007] Meanwhile, in the case of the prior art (Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2014-0095788, title: Clothing Processing Device), a hot air supply module (4) for heating and circulating air is provided at the top of the tub, and the hot air supply module (4) includes a circulation path (41, 43, 47) that guides air drawn out from inside the tub (2) to the front surface of the tub (2) (one surface of the tub formed in the direction where the inlet port (11) is located), a heat exchanger (45) that exchanges heat with the air flowing along the circulation path, and a blower (49) located between the heat exchanger (45) and the front surface of the tub to circulate the air inside the tub (2).

[0008] Here, in the case of a clothing processing device according to the prior art, a hot air supply module (4) including a circulation channel (41, 43, 47), a heat exchanger (45), a blower (49), etc. is fixedly installed on the upper part of the tub (2).

[0009] Meanwhile, in the case of the tub (2), a drum (3) is provided to be rotatable inside the tub (2), and the drum (3) can be rotated together with the laundry put into it to perform washing / drying of the put-in laundry.

[0010] When the drum (3) described above rotates, vibration may occur in the drum (3) due to the imbalance of the laundry, and the vibration generated in the drum (3) may be transmitted through the tub (2) to a hot air supply module (4) that is fixedly installed on the upper part of the tub (2).

[0011] As described above, in the case of a garment processing device according to the prior art, vibrations generated when the drum (3) rotates can be transmitted to the hot air supply module (4) through the tub (2), and a structure in which such vibrations can be transmitted may have an adverse effect on the durability and performance of the hot air supply module (4).

[0012] Therefore, in order to improve the space utilization of the garment processing device, the arrangement structure of each component placed inside the device is one of the important design considerations, and arranging the components to prevent vibrations generated during drum rotation from being transmitted to other components was also an important design consideration.

[0013] The present invention was devised to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a clothing processing device capable of improving space usage efficiency by improving the arrangement of internal components of the clothing processing device.

[0014] Furthermore, the present invention was devised to solve the aforementioned problems, and aims to provide a clothing processing device capable of improving space utilization efficiency by separately arranging a circulation duct that circulates air inside the tub at the top of the tub.

[0015] Furthermore, the present invention was devised to solve the aforementioned problems, and aims to provide a garment processing device capable of minimizing the transmission of vibrations generated in the drum to the circulation duct by flexibly separating the circulation duct, which circulates air inside the tub, at the top of the tub.

[0016] Furthermore, the present invention was devised to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a clothing processing device capable of improving space utilization efficiency by positioning the compressor of the heat exchanger on one side of the lower part of the tub.

[0017] Furthermore, the present invention was devised to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a clothing processing device capable of improving space utilization efficiency by placing the expansion valve of the heat exchanger on one side of the circulation duct.

[0018] Furthermore, the present invention was devised to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a garment processing device capable of minimizing the transmission of vibrations generated in the drum to the expansion valve by improving the mounting structure of the expansion valve.

[0019] Meanwhile, the objectives of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned objectives will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0020] A clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above objective comprises: a cabinet including a base; a tub that stores water and is flexibly supported with respect to the base inside the cabinet; a drum that accommodates clothing and is provided inside the tub; a driving unit that is coupled to the tub and rotates the drum; a circulation duct that forms a flow path for air circulating inside the tub and is fixedly supported by the cabinet; and a heat exchanger that dehumidifies and heats the air passing through the circulation duct, wherein the heat exchanger comprises an evaporator provided in the circulation duct to dehumidify the air; a condenser provided in the circulation duct to heat the air passing through the evaporator; a compressor provided in the base to circulate a refrigerant to the evaporator and the condenser; and an expansion valve located on the flow path where the refrigerant moves and depressurizes the refrigerant supplied to the evaporator, and it is preferable that a valve support member supporting the expansion valve is formed on one side of the circulation duct.

[0021] Here, the circulation duct comprises a duct body that accommodates the evaporator and the condenser, and a duct cover that is connected to the duct body and forms a flow path for the air, and it is preferable that the valve support be formed in the duct body.

[0022] Additionally, the expansion valve comprises a valve portion for depressurizing the refrigerant, a valve driving portion for driving the valve portion, a refrigerant inlet pipe for guiding the refrigerant to the valve portion, and a refrigerant discharge pipe through which the refrigerant depressurized in the valve portion is discharged, and it is preferable that the valve support portion supports the lower part of the valve portion.

[0023] In addition, it is preferable that the valve support member protrudes and extends from the outside of the duct body to form a seating portion on which the valve member is seated, and an insertion groove formed in the seating portion, with one side open to allow the refrigerant discharge pipe to be inserted.

[0024] Here, it is preferable that the insertion groove be formed with the opening side inclined outward with respect to the formation direction of the circulation duct.

[0025] Meanwhile, it is preferable to further provide a cushioning member interposed between the expansion valve and the valve support to mitigate vibration between the expansion valve and the valve support.

[0026] Additionally, the valve support member is extended outward from the duct body to form an opening on one side, and a seating groove is formed that is expanded beyond the valve driving member; the cushioning member extends to the inner circumferential surface of the seating groove and the upper surface of the valve support member to support the valve driving member, and it is preferable that one side is opened in correspondence with the opening.

[0027] Here, it is preferable that a seating step corresponding to the lower and lower outer surfaces of the valve driving part is formed on the inner surface of the buffer member.

[0028] Additionally, the valve support member is extended outward from the duct body to form an opening on one side and a seating groove that is expanded beyond the valve member is formed, and the cushioning member extends to the inner circumferential surface and upper surface of the valve support member to support the valve member, and it is preferable that one side is opened in correspondence with the opening.

[0029] In addition, it is preferable that a seating step corresponding to the lower and lower outer surfaces of the valve part is formed on the inner surface of the buffer member.

[0030] In addition, it is preferable that the opening has a width smaller than the diameter of the seating groove.

[0031] In addition, it is preferable that the opening be formed at an angle that extends outward from the seating groove.

[0032] Meanwhile, it is preferable that the refrigerant discharge pipe and the refrigerant inlet pipe have a 'U'-shaped vent portion formed at the tip of the expansion valve.

[0033] Here, it is preferable that the valve support further includes a guide portion that restricts the horizontal movement of the expansion valve at the outer edge of the seating portion.

[0034] In addition, it is preferable that the guide portion extends from the outer edge of the seating portion to the outside of the valve portion to support the outer surface of the valve portion.

[0035] In addition, it is preferable that a recessed groove be further formed on one side of the guide portion to avoid the refrigerant inlet pipe.

[0036] Meanwhile, it is preferable that the refrigerant discharge pipe further includes a buffer member inserted into the insertion groove.

[0037] Here, it is preferable that the buffer member has a through hole into which the refrigerant discharge pipe is inserted, and an insertion slit formed extending from the outer circumference of the buffer member and into which the inner surface of the insertion groove is inserted.

[0038] In addition, it is preferable that the buffer member be cut in one direction around the through hole so that the refrigerant discharge pipe can be inserted.

[0039] Meanwhile, the cabinet further includes a side panel, and the refrigerant inlet pipe and the refrigerant discharge pipe extend along the space between the circulation duct and the side panel above the tub, and it is preferable that the expansion valve be located between the circulation duct and the side panel.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a clothing processing device can be provided that improves space usage efficiency by improving the arrangement of internal components of the clothing processing device.

[0041] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the clothing processing device has the effect of improving space utilization efficiency by separately arranging a circulation duct that circulates air inside the tub at the top of the tub.

[0042] In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, by flexibly separating the circulation duct that circulates air inside the tub at the top of the tub, the effect of minimizing the transmission of vibrations generated in the drum to the circulation duct is achieved.

[0043] In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the installation location of the compressor of the heat exchanger is positioned on one side of the lower part of the tub, thereby improving space utilization efficiency.

[0044] In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the expansion valve of the heat exchanger is positioned on one side of the circulation duct, thereby improving space utilization efficiency.

[0045] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the clothing processing device has the effect of minimizing the transmission of vibrations generated in the drum to the expansion valve by improving the mounting structure of the expansion valve.

[0046] Meanwhile, the effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description in the claims.

[0047] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a circulation duct and a heat exchanger of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the base and back panel of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a tub of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a tub and a circulation duct of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 6 is a simplified diagram showing the positional relationship between the tub and the circulation duct of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a duct body of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the communication structure between the duct body and the tub of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view showing the flow path structure of a circulation duct of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of a circulation duct of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view showing the mounting of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a different mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view showing the mounting of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a different mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Hereinafter, a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0066] In describing the present invention, embodiments disclosed in this specification are described in detail with reference to the accompanying 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 embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of related prior art are omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, it should be noted that the accompanying 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.

[0067] First, a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0068] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a cabinet (100) forming an exterior and a clothing receiving section (200) provided to store clothing inside the cabinet (100). The clothing receiving section (200) may include a drum (220) for storing clothing inside the cabinet (100). The drum (220) may be provided to rotate the clothing inside the cabinet (100).

[0070] Alternatively, the clothing receiving section (200) may further include a tub (210) for storing water inside the cabinet (100), and the drum (220) may be rotatably provided inside the tub (210).

[0071] The cabinet (100) may include a front panel (110) having an opening (111) communicating with the interior of the drum (220), side panels (150) arranged on both sides of the front panel (110), and a back panel (160) connecting the back of the side panels (150).

[0072] The front panel (110) may be provided in a plate shape, and a door (112) for opening and closing the opening (111) may be rotatably coupled thereto. An interface (I) for receiving user commands or displaying the status of a clothing processing device may be installed above the opening (111) on the front panel (110). At least a portion of the interface (I) may be provided as a touch panel.

[0073] The cabinet (100) may further include an installation panel (120) that is positioned above the opening of the drum (220) and coupled to side panels (150) positioned on both sides. The installation panel (120) may be equipped with a control panel (not shown) capable of receiving commands to control the garment processing device or displaying the operating status of the garment processing device externally.

[0074] The above installation panel (120) may be positioned at the rear of the above front panel (110) (110) and may be coupled to the upper front of the above side panel (150). The above installation panel (120) may have a panel installation part (121) formed therein that fixes the front of the circulation duct (800) described later. The panel installation part (121) may be provided in a groove shape in which the rear of the circulation duct (800) is mounted, or may be provided in a hole shape through which a fastening member that is fastened to the rear of the circulation duct (800) passes.

[0075] The tub (210) may be provided in a cylindrical shape and may be provided with an inlet (213) at the front for introducing clothing. The inlet (213) may be provided to communicate with the opening of the front panel (110) and may also be provided to communicate with the inside of the drum (220).

[0076] The drum (220) may be provided with a cylindrical metal material with an open front, and may have a through hole on its outer surface so that water and detergent stored in the tub (210) can be introduced or discharged.

[0077] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a water supply and drainage unit (400) for supplying or draining water to the tub (200). The water supply and drainage unit (400) may include a water supply unit (410) for supplying water to the tub (210) and a drainage unit (420) for draining water contained in the tub (210) to the outside of the cabinet (100).

[0078] The above water supply unit (410) may include a water supply valve (411) that receives water from an external water source, a water supply pipe (413) that guides the water supplied from the water supply valve (411) toward the tub (200), and a detergent box (412) that stores detergent and receives water supplied from the water supply valve (411) to supply the detergent to the tub (200).

[0079] The above water supply valve (411) can be connected to the back panel (160) and, if necessary, may be provided in multiple numbers to selectively open and supply water. The above water supply pipe (413) may also be provided in multiple numbers to supply water to at least one of the detergent box (411), the tub (210), and the circulation duct (800) described later.

[0080] The above drainage section (420) may include a drain pipe (421) extending from the lower part of the tub (210) and a drain pump (422) that provides power to discharge water discharged from the drain pipe (421) to the outside of the cabinet (100).

[0081] Additionally, the above-mentioned water supply and drainage unit (400) may further include a circulation unit (430) that recirculates water drained from the drain pipe (421) back into the tub (210).

[0082] The above circulation unit (430) may include a circulation nozzle (431) coupled to the inlet (213) of the tub to discharge water into the tub (200), and at least one of a circulation hose and a circulation pump that supply water discharged from the drain pipe (421) to the circulation nozzle (431).

[0083] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a base (600) forming a bottom surface. The base (600) may be provided to support the cabinet (100) on which the cabinet (100) is seated. Additionally, the base (600) may support electrical components such as the drainage pump (421).

[0084] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a support member (500) that flexibly supports the tub (200) inside the cabinet (100). The support member (500) may be provided with a plurality of suspensions, one end of which is connected to the tub (200) and the other end of which is connected to the base (600).

[0085] The garment processing device of the present invention may further include a circulation duct (800) capable of circulating air inside the tub (210). The circulation duct (800) may form a flow path for circulating air inside the drum (220) outside the tub (210). Thus, the garment processing device of the present invention may be equipped as a washing machine with a drying function.

[0086] Since components such as a drainage section (420) and a support section (500) are arranged in the lower part of the tub (210), the circulation duct (800) can be placed above the tub (210).

[0087] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a heat exchanger (900) for heating air moving through the circulation duct (800). The heat exchanger (900) may include a heat exchanger (910, 920) disposed inside the circulation duct (800) and a compressor (940) disposed outside the circulation duct (800) to supply high-temperature refrigerant to the heat exchanger (910, 920).

[0088] The compressor (940) may be positioned below the tub (210). Accordingly, a wider space may be secured between the top of the tub (210) and the side panel (150) for installing the circulation duct (800).

[0089] Accordingly, in the clothing processing device of the present invention, the circulation duct (800) can be arranged to extend in the front-rear direction. As a result, the circulation duct (800) extends in the same direction as the extension of the tub (210) and the drum (220), thereby reducing flow resistance and allowing hot air to be supplied evenly inside the drum (220).

[0090] Additionally, as the compressor (940) is moved from the upper part of the tub (210) to the lower part of the tub (210), the circulation duct (800) can be positioned offset toward one of the two side panels (150) from the top of the tub (210), and the cross-sectional area of ​​the circulation duct (800) can be expanded accordingly.

[0091] Accordingly, the clothing processing device of the present invention can circulate a larger flow of air to the outside of the tub (210) than when the compressor (940) is positioned at the top of the tub (210).

[0092] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a circulation fan (1000) mounted in a circulation duct (800) to circulate air in the tub (210). Since the compressor (940) is not positioned at the top of the tub (210), the circulation fan (1000) may be positioned at the rear of the circulation duct (800) to suck in air from inside the tub (210) and supply it into the circulation duct (800).

[0093] Additionally, since the compressor (940) is positioned below the tub (210), the circulation fan (1000) can utilize the entire space between the top of the tub (210) and the side panel (150). As a result, the circulation fan (1000) can be positioned with a diameter in the width direction and arranged to rotate around a vertical axis of rotation, thereby enabling the circulation of a more abundant flow rate.

[0094] As a result, in the clothing processing device of the present invention, the compressor (940) is positioned lower than the tub (210), so that a larger flow rate per unit time can circulate through the circulation duct (800), thereby increasing the drying efficiency.

[0095] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a circulation duct and a heat exchanger of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] The tub (210) is provided in a cylindrical shape extending in the front-rear direction, and the cabinet (100) is provided in an internal rectangular shape. Accordingly, in the upper region of the tub (210), more space is secured to the left and right of the center (O) in the width direction of the cabinet (100).

[0097] The above circulation duct (800) may be positioned offset from the center (O) in either the left or right direction. That is, the width-direction center of the above circulation duct (800) may also be positioned offset from the width-direction center (O) of the cabinet in either the left or right direction.

[0098] At this time, a portion of the circulation duct (800) may be arranged to overlap the width-direction center (O) and the height-direction of the cabinet. Additionally, a portion of the circulation duct (800) may be arranged spaced apart from the width-direction center (O) of the cabinet in either the left or right direction. As a result, the cross-sectional area of ​​the circulation duct (800) may be expanded.

[0099] Meanwhile, the compressor (940) may be positioned so as to be offset from the left or right side of the center (O) in the width direction of the cabinet (100) to the direction in which the circulation duct (800) is offset. For example, the compressor (940) may be positioned at the bottom of the circulation duct (800), and the circulation duct (800) and the compressor (940) may be positioned so that at least a portion overlaps in the height direction.

[0100] As a result, the distance between the circulation duct (800) and the compressor (940) in the vertical direction can be reduced, and the length of the refrigerant pipe (950) connecting the compressor (940) and the heat exchanger (910, 920) placed inside the circulation duct (800) can be reduced. Accordingly, the refrigerant pipe (950) can be arranged in a straight line in the vertical direction as much as possible, so the flow resistance of the refrigerant is reduced and the heat loss generated in the refrigerant pipe (950) can be minimized.

[0101] Meanwhile, the heat exchanger (900) of the present invention may further include a fixing plate (960) for fixing the refrigerant pipe (950) to the back panel (160) of the cabinet (100). The fixing plate (960) may be provided in the shape of a bracket in which at least one of the back and both sides of the refrigerant pipe (950) is mounted and the height is longer than the width.

[0102] Accordingly, the refrigerant pipe (950) can be spaced apart from the tub (210) and supported by the fixing plate (850) and the cabinet (100), and vibrations generated in the tub (210) are prevented from being directly transmitted to the refrigerant pipe (950), thereby enhancing durability.

[0103] Consequently, the compressor (940), the circulation duct (800), the refrigerant pipe (950), and the fixing plate (960) can all be positioned on the left side of the tub (210) or on the right side of the tub (210). Thus, the compressor (940), the circulation duct (800), the refrigerant pipe (950), and the fixing plate (960) can all be easily installed, repaired, and replaced when a single side panel (150) is removed.

[0104] The above circulation duct (800) may include a duct body (810) on which the heat exchanger (910, 920) is seated, and a duct cover (820) coupled to the duct body (810) to shield the duct body (810).

[0105] The above duct body (810) may be provided in a case shape or duct shape with an open top, and the above duct cover (820) may be provided in a plate shape or case shape corresponding to the shape of the duct body (810).

[0106] The above duct body (810) may include a rear connecting part (850) connected to the rear of the tub (210) and communicating with the tub (210), and a front connecting part (840) connected to the front of the tub (210) and communicating with the tub (210).

[0107] The rear connecting part (850) and the front connecting part (840) may be provided in the shape of a duct or pipe through which air can move. The rear connecting part (850) and the front connecting part (840) may be provided with an elastic material. Thus, even if the tub (210) vibrates, the vibration of the tub (210) can be prevented from being transmitted to the duct body (810).

[0108] The above circulation duct (800) may be connected to the tub (210) only at the front connection part (840) and the rear connection part (850), and the duct body (810) may be spaced apart from the tub (210). It may further include a bracket (830) that fixes the position of the rear connection part (850) by fixing the rear connection part (850) to the tub (210).

[0109] The bracket (830) can be positioned at the bottom of the duct body (810) and seated on the tub (210). Thus, even if the duct body (810) is positioned to block the air inlet / outlet of the tub (210), the position of the rear connecting part (850) is fixed through the bracket (830), allowing the air inlet / outlet of the tub (210) and the duct body (810) to be easily connected via the rear connecting part (850).

[0110] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the base and back panel of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] The above base (600) may include a base body (610) that supports the load of the clothing processing device and an installation groove (620) that is recessed in at least one of the left and right sides of the base body (610).

[0112] The above installation groove (620) may be positioned offset to one side of the base body (610) and may be positioned at the rear of the base body (610). The above installation groove (620) may form a space on which the compressor (940) is seated.

[0113] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a control unit (not shown) or a control panel (2000) capable of controlling electrical components placed in the clothing processing device. A circulation duct (800) may be installed on one side of the upper part of the tub (210), and a detergent box or a water storage tank, etc., may be installed on the other side. Accordingly, the control panel (2000) may be installed on the base body (610) and positioned below the tub (210).

[0114] The control panel (2000) may be positioned on the base body (610) spaced apart from the installation groove (620). For example, the control panel (2000) may be positioned offset to the other side of the base body (610). As a result, the control panel (2000) may be prevented from being exposed to heat generated by the compressor (940). Additionally, by positioning the control panel (2000) and the compressor (940) on both lower sides of the tub (210), interference between the control panel (2000) and the compressor (940) and the tub (210) may be prevented.

[0115] The control panel (2000) may include an HP case (2100) that controls the heat exchanger (900) and a main PCB (2200) coupled to the HP case (2100) to control electrical components other than the heat exchanger (900). Since the HP case (2100) has a larger volume and generates more heat than the main PCB (2200), the control panel (2000) may include a panel fan (2300) coupled to one side of the HP case (2100) to cool the HP case (2100). Additionally, the control panel (2000) may further include a noise filter (2300) capable of removing noise from current supplied from various sensors of the clothing processing device or external power, or from electrical signals generated from the HP case (2100) and the main PCB (2200). The noise filter (2300) may be mounted on the upper part of the main PCB (2200) to receive current or transmit a current signal.

[0116] The above rear panel (160) may be provided with a panel fixing part (161) on the upper part for fixing the rear of the circulation duct (800). The panel fixing part (161) may be provided in a groove shape for mounting the rear of the circulation duct (800), or in a hole shape through which a fastening member that is fastened to the rear of the circulation duct (800) passes.

[0117] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a tub of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0118] The above tub (210) may include a cylindrical tub body (211) and an inlet (214) provided at the front of the tub body (211) into which clothing can be inserted.

[0119] The diameter of the inlet (214) may be smaller than the diameter of the tub body (211). The circulation part (430) may be coupled to and fixed to the outer surface of the inlet (214).

[0120] The above tub body (211) may be formed by dividing it into a front body and a rear body and joining them together, or it may be formed as a single unit.

[0121] The above tub (210) may further include an air outlet (212) provided at the upper rear of the tub body (211) through which air inside the tub (210) is discharged, and an air inlet (213) provided at the upper part of the inlet (214) through which air discharged from the circulation duct (800) is introduced.

[0122] The air outlet (212) may be formed offset to one side from the top of the tub body (211). By doing so, the air outlet (212) extends from a position lower than the top of the tub body (211), thereby ensuring sufficient space for the circulation fan (1000) to be installed.

[0123] The air inlet (211) may be formed at the top of the inlet (211).

[0124] The above tub (210) may further include a vent hole (215) that is offset to the other side from the top of the tub body (211) and communicates with the outside, and a connecting pipe (216) that communicates the vent hole (215) with the outside of the cabinet (100).

[0125] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a tub and a circulation duct of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] FIG. 5(a) illustrates the tub (210) as viewed from the front, and FIG. 5(b) illustrates the tub (210) as viewed from the rear.

[0127] The above circulation duct (800) may include a duct body (810) that receives air from an air outlet (212) formed at the upper rear of the tub (210) and discharges air to an air inlet (213) formed at the upper front of the tub (210), and a duct cover (820) that is coupled to the upper part of the duct body (810) and shields the inside of the duct body (810).

[0128] The above duct body (810) can be extended from the rear to the front and can be arranged in a direction corresponding to the front-rear direction of the tub (210) and the drum (220). By doing so, the air resistance flowing through the clothing receiving section (200) and the circulation duct (800) can be reduced.

[0129] The rear connecting part (850) may be provided to connect the rear of the duct body (810) and the air outlet (212), and the front connecting part (840) may be provided to connect the front of the duct body (810) and the air inlet (213).

[0130] The above front connecting part (840) may be provided in a square duct shape or in a bellows type. One end or the upper end of the above front connecting part (840) may be connected to the duct body (810), and the other end or the lower end may be connected to the air inlet (213).

[0131] The above rear connecting part (850) may be provided in a pipe shape or in a spool type.

[0132] However, the rear connecting part (850) may be positioned between the duct body (810) and the tub body (211). Accordingly, the duct body (810) may pressurize the rear connecting part (850) toward the air inlet (212) due to the load. Accordingly, the rear connecting part (850) may be provided such that one end or the upper end is connected to or in close contact with the duct body (810), and the end or lower end is connected to or in close contact with the air inlet (212).

[0133] The above circulation fan (1000) may be positioned with at least a portion between the duct body (810) and the duct cover (820), and may be positioned closer to the rear than to the front of the duct body (810).

[0134] The above circulation fan (1000) may be configured to suck in air from the air outlet (212) and supply it into the duct body (810). That is, the circulation fan (1000) can supply air from inside the tub (210) into the circulation duct (800) at positive pressure.

[0135] A drive unit (300) for rotating the drum (220) may be coupled to the rear of the tub (210). The drive unit (300) may be provided as an outer rotor type.

[0136] FIG. 6 is a simplified diagram showing the positional relationship between the tub and the circulation duct of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] The above circulation duct (800) is provided with a resin-based material, and the heat exchanger (910, 920) housed inside may be provided with a metal material. Therefore, the above circulation duct (800) may be susceptible to vibration. In addition, since the above circulation duct (800) has a large self-weight due to the heat exchanger (910, 920) and the circulation fan (1000), it may vibrate with a frequency and amplitude separate from the vibration of the tub (210). As a result, if the above circulation duct (800) is directly seated on the tub (210), the above circulation duct (800) and the tub (210) may collide with each other or, in severe cases, be damaged. Therefore, the above circulation duct (800) may be installed inside the cabinet (100) while maintaining a certain distance from the tub (210).

[0138] The front connecting part (840) and the rear connecting part (850) are coupled to the tub (210), and the duct body (810) may be positioned such that its lower surface is spaced apart from the tub (210) by a specific distance (h). The front connecting part (840) and the rear connecting part (850) are provided with an elastic material to block vibrations and noise from the tub (210) from being transmitted to the duct body (810).

[0139] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a duct body of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] The above duct body (810) may include an inlet duct (811) that receives air from the air outlet (212), a fan housing (812) that extends from the inlet duct (811) and accommodates the circulation fan (1000), a connecting duct (813) that extends forward from the fan housing (812), an installation duct (814) that extends forward from the connecting duct (813) and installs a heat exchanger (910, 920), and an exhaust duct (815) that extends forward or downward from the installation duct (814) and discharges air to the air inlet (213).

[0141] The inlet duct (811) may be positioned above the air inlet (813) and may be positioned to overlap the air inlet (813) in the height direction. The inlet duct (811) may be provided in the shape of a pipe or in the shape of a through hole so that the rear connecting part (850) can be connected. One end or the lower end of the rear connecting part (850) may be connected to or in contact with the air inlet (212), and the other end or the upper end may be connected to or in contact with the inlet duct (811).

[0142] The above fan housing (812) may be provided in a circular or spiral shape. The above fan housing (812) may be provided larger than the diameter or area of ​​the inlet duct (811) to secure space for the circulation fan (1000) to be installed. The above circulation fan (1000) may be provided to be seated in the above fan housing (812) to suck in air from the tub (210) and supply it to the heat exchanger (910, 920).

[0143] The above connecting duct (813) may extend forward from one side of the fan housing (812). The connecting duct (813) may guide the radial airflow formed by the circulation fan (1000) forward.

[0144] The above connecting duct (813) may be configured so that its cross-sectional area gradually widens from the rear toward the front. As a result, the air supplied by the circulation fan (1000) can be distributed evenly as its flow velocity slows down.

[0145] The above installation duct (814) is provided with a width greater than that of the front end of the above connection duct (813) so that the heat exchanger (910, 920) can be seated thereon. The above installation duct (814) can form a space in which the evaporator (910) and the condenser (920) are seated.

[0146] The exhaust duct (815) may be formed with a smaller diameter than the installation duct (814). The exhaust duct (815) may be formed such that its width decreases as it extends forward from the installation duct (814). The end of the exhaust duct (815) may be provided with an area and shape corresponding to the air inlet (213). The exhaust duct (815) may extend forward from the installation duct (814) with a decreasing width and may form an opening at the lower front.

[0147] The above duct body (810) may further include a receiving rib (816) that partitions the fan housing (812) and the connecting duct (813) and accommodates a circulation fan (1000). The receiving rib (816) may be provided to discharge air circulating around the inner surface of the fan housing (812) forward. That is, the receiving rib (816) can perform the function of an outlet of the fan housing (812) together with one side of the installation duct (813).

[0148] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a fixing part (860) that fixes the front and rear of the circulation duct (800) to the cabinet (100) to separate the circulation duct (800) from the tub (210).

[0149] The above fixing part (860) may include a front fixing part (861) provided at the front of the duct body (810) and fixed to the installation panel (120), and a rear fixing part (862) provided at the rear of the duct body (810) and fixed to the rear panel (160). For example, the front fixing part (861) may be provided so that a fastening member, etc., can be attached to the front of the exhaust duct (815).

[0150] Additionally, the front fixing part (861) may be provided in the shape of a protruding projection that protrudes from the front of the exhaust duct (815). The front fixing part (861) may be provided in multiple numbers and arranged spaced apart in the width direction in front of the exhaust duct (815). The front fixing part (861) may be inserted into and seated in the panel installation part (121). For example, the rear fixing part (862) may be provided so that a fastening member, etc., can be attached to the rear of the fan housing (812).

[0151] Additionally, the rear fixing part (862) may be provided in the shape of a protruding projection that protrudes from the rear of the fan housing (812). The rear fixing part (862) may be provided in multiple numbers and arranged spaced apart in the width direction at the rear of the fan housing (812). The rear fixing part (862) may be inserted into and seated in the panel fixing part (161).

[0152] Accordingly, the circulation duct (800) can be fixedly supported on the cabinet (100) relatively compared to the tub (210) being flexibly supported by the support member (500) with respect to the base (600).

[0153] That is, the circulation duct (800) is fixed to the cabinet (100), and even if the tub (210) moves due to vibrations generated by the rotation of the drum (220), the vibrations of the tub (210) are reduced at the front connection part (840) and the rear connection part (850), so that the circulation duct (800) can be prevented from moving.

[0154] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the communication structure between the duct body and the tub of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0155] The above duct body (810) can be extended from the rear to the front of the tub.

[0156] Additionally, the duct body (810) may be provided with a wide width to accommodate the diameter of the circulation fan (1000) in the width direction and to further expand the cross-sectional area. As a result, the duct body (810) may be arranged to completely overlap in the height direction from the upper part of the air outlet (212) to the upper part of the air inlet (213). Since the air inlet (213) is provided at the inlet (214), a space may be formed in which the front connecting part (840) is installed in front of the tub (210).

[0157] However, since the air outlet (212) extends upward from the tub body (211), if the inlet duct (811) is positioned above the air outlet (212), there may be insufficient space for the rear connecting part (850) to be installed or assembled between the air outlet (212) and the inlet duct (811).

[0158] Accordingly, the bracket (830) may be provided to be seated on the upper part of the tub body (211) to connect the rear connecting part (850) to the air outlet (212). The bracket (830) may be coupled to the upper part of the tub body (211) and the lower end of the rear connecting part (850) may be brought into close contact with the air outlet (212).

[0159] The rear connecting part (850) can be connected to the inlet duct (811) at its upper end while fixed to the bracket (830). The duct body (810) can fix the position of the rear connecting part (850) by pressing the rear connecting part (850) toward the bracket (830).

[0160] FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view showing the flow path structure of a circulation duct of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0161] The above circulation fan (1000) may be positioned above the inlet duct (811). The circulation fan (1000) may include an impeller (1100) that is housed in the fan housing (812) and introduces air inside the tub body (211), a fan motor (1200) that is seated on the outside of the duct cover (820) and provides power to rotate the impeller (1100), and a rotating shaft (1300) that passes through the duct cover (820) and connects the fan motor (1200) and the impeller (1100).

[0162] The heat exchanger (900) may include an evaporator (910) seated in the installation duct (814) and a condenser (920) spaced apart from the evaporator (910) toward the exhaust duct (815).

[0163] The above evaporator (910) may be positioned behind the above condenser (920) and close to the circulation fan (1000), and the above condenser (920) may be connected to the compressor (940) and the refrigerant pipe (950) to receive high-temperature refrigerant.

[0164] When the fan motor (1200) rotates the impeller (1100), air inside the tub (210) can be introduced into the inlet duct (811). The air introduced into the inlet duct (811) can be introduced into the installation duct (814) along the connecting duct (813) while rotating radially by the impeller (1100). The air introduced into the installation duct (814) can be cooled as it passes through the evaporator (910) to condense moisture, and can be heated as it passes through the condenser (920).

[0165] The air passing through the condenser (920) can be discharged through the exhaust duct (815) and then discharged through the air inlet (213). This process is performed continuously so that the clothing contained in the drum (220) can be dried.

[0166] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of a circulation duct of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0167] Referring to FIG. 10(a), the diameter (w2) of the fan housing (812) may be larger than half the width (w1) of the installation duct (814). Thus, as shown in FIG. 10(b), the impeller (1100) may be positioned to rotate around a vertical axis of rotation (1300). As a result, more air inside the tub (210) can be drawn into the duct body (210) with greater force and without loss.

[0168] That is, the diameter (R) of the impeller (1100) is provided to be longer than the thickness (H), and the impeller (1100) can be accommodated inside the fan housing (812) such that the diameter (R) is arranged in the width direction and the thickness (H) is arranged in the up-down direction.

[0169] Referring to FIG. 10(a), due to the receiving rib (816), the rear or inlet width (W3) of the connecting duct (813) can be formed to be smaller than the width of the installation duct (W1) and smaller than the diameter (W2) of the fan housing (812). Additionally, the connecting duct (813) can be configured so that its width gradually increases as it faces the evaporator (810).

[0170] Thus, the connecting duct (813) can function as a diffuser that evenly disperses the air supplied from the fan housing (812) in the width direction toward the front.

[0171] The clothing treatment device of the present invention may further include a nozzle part (3000) capable of cleaning the evaporator (910) by spraying water onto the evaporator (910).

[0172] The nozzle section (3000) may be configured to receive water from the water supply section (410) and spray it onto the evaporator (910). The nozzle section (3000) may be arranged to extend in the width direction of the evaporator (910) so as to supply water to the entire rear surface of the evaporator (910).

[0173] The above circulation duct (800) may be provided to discharge water condensed in the evaporator (910) and water sprayed into the evaporator (910) back to the drain (420) or the tub (210).

[0174] The rear surface of the evaporator (910) corresponds to the area where it is first exposed to the air introduced from the tub (210). Accordingly, the nozzle part (3000) can spray water onto the rear of the evaporator (910) to remove foreign matter adhering to the rear surface of the evaporator (910).

[0175] The nozzle section (3000) may be positioned between the lower part of the duct cover (420) and the evaporator (910). The water supply section (410) may include a water supply pipe (413, see FIG. 5) connected from the water supply valve (411) to supply water to the nozzle section (3000). The water supply pipe (413) may be provided in multiple numbers and may extend from the water supply valve (411) toward both ends of the nozzle section (3000). Thus, water can be evenly supplied across the entire width of the nozzle section (3000).

[0176] The heat exchanger (900) may further be equipped with an expansion valve (930, see FIG. 2) for reducing the pressure of the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant that has passed through the condenser (920) to a low-temperature, low-pressure state. The expansion valve (930) is an important component that determines the efficiency and performance of the heat exchanger (900) by controlling the refrigerant flow rate in response to load fluctuations of the heat exchanger (900).

[0177] Such an expansion valve (930) can be positioned immediately in front of the evaporator (910) in the refrigerant system to improve the efficiency of the heat exchanger (900). The expansion valve (930) can be positioned adjacent to the evaporator (910) installed in the circulation duct (800) between the circulation duct (800) and the side panel (150) of the cabinet (100).

[0178] That is, the expansion valve (930) is positioned as close as possible to the evaporator (910) to lower the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant flowing into the evaporator (910). Additionally, a filter (939) may be further provided at the tip of the expansion valve (930) to block foreign substances contained in the refrigerant flowing into the expansion valve (930).

[0179] Recently, electronic expansion valves (EEV or EXV) are mainly used to precisely control the refrigerant flow rate of the heat exchanger (900). In order to improve the efficiency of the heat exchanger (900), such electronic expansion valves must also be positioned as close as possible to the tip of the evaporator (910), just like the expansion valve (930). In the following description, an expansion valve using an electronic expansion valve will be described as a representative example.

[0180] Hereinafter, the mounting structure of an expansion valve (930) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0181] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view showing the mounting of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0182] As illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, the heat exchanger (900) may be equipped with an evaporator (910) and a condenser (920) disposed inside the installation duct (814) of the circulation duct (800) as described above. The evaporator (910) and the condenser (920) can condense and remove moisture contained in the air as the air moves, and heat the air.

[0183] The expansion valve (930) comprises a valve section (933) to which a refrigerant inlet pipe (934) through which the refrigerant flows in and a refrigerant discharge pipe (935) through which the refrigerant passing through the expansion valve (930) is discharged are connected, a valve driving section (931) for driving the valve section, and a valve terminal section (932) for electrically connecting the valve driving section (931) and a control section.

[0184] The valve driving unit (931) may be located above the valve unit (933) with respect to the valve unit (933), and the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) may be connected to the lower and side of the valve unit (933), respectively. The valve terminal unit (932) may be located on one side of the valve driving unit (931).

[0185] As described above, the efficiency of the evaporator (910) can be increased as the expansion valve (930) is located closer to the evaporator (910). Accordingly, the expansion valve (930) may be positioned on one side of the installation duct (814) of the circulation duct (800) where the evaporator (910) is installed. Preferably, it may be positioned on one side of the installation duct (814) so ​​as to be adjacent to the evaporator (910) installed in the installation duct (814).

[0186] Meanwhile, a valve support member (817) for supporting the expansion valve (930) may be formed protrudingly on one side of the installation duct (814). The valve support member (817) may be formed integrally with the duct body (810) or the installation body (814) using the same material as each duct component constituting the circulation duct (800).

[0187] As illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, the valve support member (817) may include a seating member (818) that protrudes from one side of the installation duct (814) and supports the lower part of the expansion valve (930), and a guide member (819) that restricts the horizontal flow of the expansion valve (930). The seating member (818) and the guide member (819) may be formed integrally during the molding of the duct body (810) in which the installation duct (814) is formed.

[0188] Additionally, the seating portion (818) and the guide portion (819) protrude and extend from one side of the outer side of the installation body (814), and the guide portion (819) may be formed in a shape that surrounds the seating portion (818). The guide portion (819) may extend in a direction that intersects with the seating portion (818) and may also perform the role of reinforcing the seating portion (818).

[0189] An insertion groove (8181) that is cut in one direction may be formed on one side of the above-mentioned seating portion (818) so that the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) is inserted. As the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) is inserted through the insertion groove (8181), the valve portion (933) can be seated and supported on the above-mentioned seating portion (818).

[0190] The insertion groove (8181) may be formed at a certain angle (α) to facilitate the insertion of the refrigerant discharge pipe (935). That is, the expansion valve (930) may be seated on the valve support (817) with the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) connected as described above. Therefore, the direction in which the expansion valve (930) is inserted into the insertion groove (8181) may be restricted by the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935).

[0191] Accordingly, the direction of formation of the insertion groove (8181) may be formed at a certain angle (α) so that the expansion valve (930) can be easily inserted into the insertion groove (8181). Here, the angle at which the insertion groove (8181) is formed may be an angle at which the opening side of the insertion groove (8181) is formed to be inclined outward with respect to the direction of formation of the circulation duct (800).

[0192] Meanwhile, the expansion valve (930) may be seated on the valve support (817) with the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) connected. At this time, to facilitate the movement of the expansion valve, vent portions (934a, 935a) may be formed in the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935), respectively. Each vent portion (934a, 935a) may be formed by shaping the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) into a 'U' shape so that each vent portion (934a, 935a) acts as a buffer when the expansion valve (930) moves.

[0193] The guide portion (819) may be extended along the outer edge of the seating portion (818) to surround the valve portion (933) of the expansion valve (930). An indentation groove (8191) in which the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) is located may be formed on one side of the guide portion (819). The indentation groove (8191) may be formed by indenting a part of the guide portion (819) in a direction parallel to the insertion groove (8181). By means of the indentation groove (8191) formed in the guide portion (819), the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) connected to the valve portion (933) may be connected to the valve portion (933) by bypassing the guide portion (819).

[0194] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing only a part of the valve support (817) to show the seating state of the expansion valve.

[0195] As described above, the expansion valve (930) can be supported in a state where the lower part of the valve driving part (931) is supported on the upper surface of the seating part (818). That is, the expansion valve (930) can be supported by the lower part of the valve part (933) being seated on the seating part (818) while the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) are connected to the valve part (933), and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) connected to the valve part (933) is inserted into the opening side of the insertion groove (8181) of the seating part (818).

[0196] Accordingly, the lower part of the valve portion (933) of the expansion valve (930) is supported by the seating portion (818), so that the movement of the expansion valve (930) can be prevented.

[0197] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing only a part of the valve support part (817) to show a different support state of the expansion valve.

[0198] In another embodiment of the present invention, the expansion valve (930) is provided with a separate buffer member (8182) in the refrigerant discharge pipe (935), and the expansion valve (930) can be supported with the valve support member (817) in a state where vibration transmission is mitigated by the buffer member (8182) being connected to the valve support member (817).

[0199] The above buffer member (8182) is formed in a ring shape in which a refrigerant pipe penetration hole (8183) into which the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) is inserted is formed in the central part, and an insertion slot (8184) into which the inner surface of the insertion groove (8181) of the seating part (818) is inserted may be extended and formed on the outer surface of the buffer member (8182).

[0200] Additionally, the buffer member (8182) may have an incision (not shown) formed on one side to open the refrigerant pipe penetration hole (8183). Accordingly, the expansion valve (930) can be connected by inserting the buffer member (8182) into the valve support (817) after the buffer member (8182) is separately fastened while the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) is connected to the expansion valve (930).

[0201] Meanwhile, although the above description explains that the valve part (933) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) are supported on the valve support part (817), other structures connected to the expansion valve (9310), such as the valve driving part (931) and the refrigerant inlet pipe (934), may also be supported on the valve support part (817).

[0202] Accordingly, the expansion valve (930) is supported in a state where a part of the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) is supported by the buffer member (8182) and inserted into the insertion groove (8181) of the seating portion (818), thereby preventing the expansion valve (930) from moving.

[0203] Hereinafter, the mounting structure of an expansion valve (930) according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0204] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view showing the mounting of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0205] As illustrated in FIGS. 15 to 16, the heat exchanger (900) may be equipped with an evaporator (910) and a condenser (920) disposed inside the installation duct (814) of the circulation duct (800) as described above. The evaporator (910) and the condenser (920) can condense and remove moisture contained in the air as the air moves, and heat the air.

[0206] The heat exchanger (900) may further be equipped with an expansion valve (930) for reducing the pressure of the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant that has passed through the condenser (920) to a low-temperature, low-pressure state. The expansion valve (930) is an important component that determines the efficiency and performance of the heat exchanger (900) by controlling the refrigerant flow rate in response to load fluctuations of the heat exchanger (900).

[0207] Such an expansion valve (930) can be positioned immediately in front of the evaporator (910) in the refrigerant system to improve the efficiency of the heat exchanger (900). The expansion valve (930) can be positioned adjacent to the evaporator (910) installed in the circulation duct (800) between the circulation duct (800) and the side panel (150) of the cabinet (100).

[0208] That is, the expansion valve (930) is positioned as close as possible to the evaporator (910) to lower the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant flowing into the evaporator (910). Additionally, a filter (939) may be further provided at the tip of the expansion valve (930) to block foreign substances contained in the refrigerant flowing into the expansion valve (930).

[0209] Recently, electronic expansion valves (EEV or EXV) are mainly used to precisely control the refrigerant flow rate of the heat exchanger (900). In order to improve the efficiency of the heat exchanger (900), such electronic expansion valves must also be positioned as close as possible to the tip of the evaporator (910), just like the expansion valve (930). In the following description, an expansion valve using an electronic expansion valve will be described as a representative example.

[0210] The expansion valve (930) comprises a valve section (933) to which a refrigerant inlet pipe (934) through which the refrigerant flows in and a refrigerant discharge pipe (935) through which the refrigerant passing through the expansion valve (930) is discharged are connected, a valve driving section (931) for driving the valve section, and a valve terminal section (932) for electrically connecting the valve driving section (931) and a control section.

[0211] The valve driving unit (931) may be located above the valve unit (933) with respect to the valve unit (933), and the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) may be connected to the lower and side of the valve unit (933), respectively. The valve terminal unit (932) may be located on one side of the valve driving unit (931).

[0212] As described above, the efficiency of the evaporator (910) can be increased as the expansion valve (930) is located closer to the evaporator (910). Accordingly, the expansion valve (930) may be positioned on one side of the installation duct (814) of the circulation duct (800) where the evaporator (910) is installed. Preferably, it may be positioned on one side of the installation duct (814) so ​​as to be adjacent to the evaporator (910) installed in the installation duct (814).

[0213] A valve support portion (897) for supporting the expansion valve (930) may be formed protrudingly on one side of the installation duct (814). The valve support portion (897) may be formed integrally with the duct body (810) or the installation body (814) using the same material as each duct component constituting the circulation duct (800).

[0214] Specifically, the valve support member (897) may include a seating member (898) that protrudes from one side of the installation duct (814) and supports the lower part of the expansion valve (930), and a cushioning member provided on the seating member to cushion vibrations between the seating member and the expansion valve. The seating member (898) may be formed integrally during the molding of the duct body (810) in which the installation duct (814) is formed.

[0215] The above valve support (897) supports the lower outer surface of the valve part (933) of the expansion valve (930) to prevent the expansion valve (930) from vibrating in the horizontal direction.

[0216] The above-mentioned seating portion (989) and the above-mentioned buffer member (8982) may have a stepped portion (8991) corresponding to the lower shape of the valve portion (933) so that the lower part of the valve portion (933) of the expansion valve (930) is inserted therein.

[0217] Specifically, the above-mentioned seating portion (989) protrudes from one side of the installation duct (814), and a seating groove (8983) that extends beyond the lower part of the valve portion (933) may be formed. The cushioning member (8982) may be provided inside and above the seating groove (8983).

[0218] The above buffer member (8982) has a seating step portion (8983) formed corresponding to the lower part of the valve portion (933), and both sides in the width direction of the buffer member (8982) can extend to the upper surface of the seating portion (989) and the inner circumference of the seating groove (8983).

[0219] An opening (8981) into which the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) is inserted may be formed on one side of the above-mentioned seating portion (989) and the above-mentioned buffer member (8982) to install the above-mentioned expansion valve (930). The opening (8981) may be opened with a width (D1) smaller than the diameter (D2) of the seating step portion (8983) formed in the above-mentioned buffer member (8982).

[0220] That is, the above-mentioned mounting step portion (8983) has a diameter (D2) corresponding to the lower shape of the valve portion (933), and the above-mentioned opening (8981) is opened with a width (D1) that is larger than the diameter of the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) and smaller than the lower shape of the valve portion (933), so that when the valve portion (933) is mounted on the mounting portion (989), the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) is inserted through the above-mentioned opening (8981), and after the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) is inserted, the lower part of the valve portion (933) is inserted and mounted on the above-mentioned mounting step portion (8983), so that the expansion valve (930) can be supported by the valve support portion (897).

[0221] The opening (8981) may be opened in a form that expands at a certain angle to facilitate the insertion of the refrigerant discharge pipe (935). Additionally, the opening (8981) may be formed to expand at a certain angle with respect to the extension direction of the circulation duct (800).

[0222] That is, the expansion valve (930) can be seated on the valve support (897) with the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) connected as described above. Accordingly, the direction in which the expansion valve (930) is inserted into the opening (8981) can be restricted by the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935).

[0223] Accordingly, the direction of formation of the opening (8981) may be formed to be expanded at a certain angle so that the expansion valve (930) can be easily inserted into the opening (8981). Additionally, the direction in which the opening (8981) is formed may be an angle such that the opening side of the opening (8981) is inclined toward one side with respect to the direction of formation of the circulation duct (800).

[0224] Meanwhile, the expansion valve (930) may be seated on the valve support (897) with the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) connected. At this time, to facilitate the movement of the expansion valve, vent portions (934a, 935a) may be formed in the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935), respectively. Each vent portion (934a, 935a) may be formed by shaping the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) into a 'U' shape so that each vent portion (934a, 935a) performs a buffering role when the expansion valve (930) is seated.

[0225] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing only a part of the valve support (897) to show the seating state of the expansion valve.

[0226] As described above, the expansion valve (930) can be supported in a state where the lower part of the valve portion (933) is inserted into the cushioning member connected to the seating portion (989).

[0227] That is, the expansion valve (930) is connected to the valve part (933) by the refrigerant inlet pipe (934) and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935), and the refrigerant discharge pipe (935) connected to the valve part (933) is inserted into the opening side of the opening (8981) of the seating part (989), so that the lower part of the valve part (933) is seated and supported on the cushioning member (8982).

[0228] Here, the lower part of the valve portion (933) is seated on the seating step portion (8983) of the cushioning member (8982), and the movement of the valve portion may be restricted by the seating step portion. Additionally, the cushioning member on which the seating step portion is formed is formed of a material having a certain elasticity, so as to dampen vibrations transmitted to the expansion valve through the refrigerant inlet pipe or the refrigerant discharge pipe.

[0229] In addition, in the case of the valve portion seated on the cushioning step portion of the cushioning member, the lower surface and outer surface are supported by the cushioning step portion, thereby preventing vibration of the expansion valve.

[0230] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a different mounting state of an expansion valve of a clothing processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing only a part of the valve support portion (897) to show a different support state of the expansion valve.

[0231] Another embodiment of the present invention illustrates that the valve support (897) supports the valve driving part (931) of the expansion valve (930).

[0232] That is, the seating portion (989) of the valve support portion (897) supports the lower part of the expansion valve (930), and the seating step portion (8983) formed on the cushioning member (8982) of the seating portion (989) can be formed to correspond to the lower part and the lower outer surface of the valve driving portion (931) of the expansion valve (930).

[0233] Specifically, the above-mentioned seating portion (989) may protrude from one side of the installation duct (814), and a seating groove (8983) that extends beyond the lower part of the valve driving portion (931) may be formed. The cushioning member (8982) may be provided inside and above the seating groove (8983).

[0234] The above buffer member (8982) has a seating step portion (8983) formed corresponding to the lower part of the valve driving part (931), and both sides in the width direction of the buffer member (8982) can extend to the upper surface of the seating portion (989) and the inner circumference of the seating groove (8983).

[0235] Accordingly, the expansion valve (930) can prevent flow of the expansion valve (930) and simultaneously prevent vibration transmitted to the expansion valve (930) by having the lower part of the valve part (933) or the valve driving part (931) become the cushioning member (8982) of the valve support part (897).

[0236] As described above, preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail; however, a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will be able to modify the present invention in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Therefore, future modifications to the embodiments of the present invention will not depart from the technology of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cabinet including a base; a tub that stores water and is flexibly supported on the base inside the cabinet; a drum provided inside the tub for receiving clothing; a driving unit coupled to the tub for rotating the drum; a circulation duct fixedly supported on the cabinet and forming a flow path for air circulating inside the tub; and a heat exchanger for dehumidifying and heating the air passing through the circulation duct, The above heat exchanger An evaporator provided in the above circulation duct for dehumidifying the air; A condenser provided in the above circulation duct and heating the air that has passed through the above evaporator; A compressor provided on the above base and circulating refrigerant to the above evaporator and the above condenser; It is equipped with an expansion valve located on the path where the refrigerant moves and which reduces the pressure of the refrigerant supplied to the evaporator, A clothing processing device characterized by having a valve support portion formed on one side of the above circulation duct to support the expansion valve.

2. In Clause 1, the above circulation duct A duct body accommodating the above evaporator and the above condenser, and It is equipped with a duct cover that is fastened to the above duct body and forms the air passage, A clothing processing device characterized in that the above valve support is formed in the above duct body.

3. In Clause 2, the expansion valve A valve section for reducing the pressure of the above refrigerant, and A valve driving unit that drives the above valve unit, and A refrigerant inlet pipe that guides the refrigerant to the valve section, and It includes a refrigerant discharge pipe through which the refrigerant, depressurized at the valve section, is discharged, and A clothing processing device characterized by the above valve support member supporting the lower part of the above valve member.

4. In Clause 3, the valve support A seating portion extending outwardly from the outer side of the duct body and on which the valve portion is seated, and A clothing processing device characterized by having an insertion groove formed in the above-mentioned seating portion, with one side open to allow the refrigerant discharge pipe to be inserted.

5. A clothing processing device according to claim 4, characterized in that the insertion groove is formed such that the opening side is inclined outward with respect to the formation direction of the circulation duct.

6. In Paragraph 3, A clothing processing device characterized by further comprising a cushioning member interposed between the expansion valve and the valve support to mitigate vibration between the expansion valve and the valve support.

7. In Paragraph 6, The above valve support member is extended outward from the duct body to form an opening on one side, and a seating groove is formed that is expanded beyond the valve driving member. A clothing processing device characterized in that the above buffer member extends to the inner surface of the seating groove and the upper surface of the valve support member to support the valve driving member, and one side is opened in correspondence with the opening.

8. A clothing processing device according to claim 7, characterized in that a seating step corresponding to the lower and lower outer surface of the valve driving part is formed on the inner surface of the buffer member.

9. In Paragraph 6, The above valve support member is extended outward from the duct body, forming an opening on one side, and a seating groove is formed that is expanded beyond the valve member. A clothing processing device characterized in that the above buffer member extends to the inner surface and upper surface of the valve support portion to support the valve portion, and one side is opened in correspondence with the opening.

10. A clothing processing device according to claim 9, characterized in that a seating step corresponding to the lower and lower outer surface of the valve part is formed on the inner surface of the buffer member.

11. A clothing processing device according to claim 10, characterized in that the opening has a width smaller than the diameter of the seating groove.

12. A clothing processing device according to claim 11, characterized in that the opening is formed at an angle that extends outwardly toward the seating groove.

13. A clothing processing device according to claim 3, characterized in that the refrigerant discharge pipe and the refrigerant inlet pipe have a 'U'-shaped vent formed at the tip of the expansion valve.

14. In Clause 4, the valve support A clothing processing device characterized by further including a guide portion that restricts the horizontal movement of the expansion valve at the outer edge of the above-mentioned seating portion.

15. A clothing processing device according to claim 14, characterized in that the guide portion extends from the outer edge of the seating portion to the outside of the valve portion to support the outer surface of the valve portion.

16. A clothing processing device according to claim 15, characterized in that a recessed groove is further formed on one side of the guide portion to avoid the refrigerant inlet pipe.

17. A clothing processing device according to claim 4, characterized in that the refrigerant discharge pipe further comprises a buffer member inserted into the insertion groove.

18. In Clause 17, the buffer member is A through hole into which the above-mentioned refrigerant discharge pipe is inserted, and A clothing processing device characterized by having an insertion slit formed extending from the outer surface of the above-mentioned buffer member and supported such that the inner surface of the insertion groove is inserted therein.

19. A clothing processing device according to claim 18, wherein the buffer member is cut in one direction around the through hole so that the refrigerant discharge pipe is inserted.

20. In Paragraph 3, The above cabinet further includes a side panel, and The above refrigerant inlet pipe and the above refrigerant discharge pipe extend along the space between the circulation duct and the side panel on the upper side of the tub, and A clothing processing device characterized in that the expansion valve is located between the circulation duct and the side panel.

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