Clothing treatment apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides a clothing treatment apparatus comprising: a cabinet; a tub provided inside the cabinet to store water; a drum rotatably provided inside the tub to accommodate clothing; a driving unit for rotating the drum; a first side panel that forms one side surface of the cabinet; a second side panel that faces the first side panel and forms the other side surface of the cabinet; a duct part for re-supplying the drum with air discharged from the drum; a heat exchanger that is provided inside the duct part and includes an evaporator for dehumidifying the air discharged from the drum and a condenser for heating the air that passes through the evaporator; a compressor for compressing a refrigerant that exchanges heat with the heat exchanger; and a refrigeration pipe that forms a circulation path for the refrigerant exchanging heat with the air in the duct part. The compressor and the heat exchanger are biased toward the first side panel, and the refrigerant pipe is provided to be drawn out from the heat exchanger toward the first side panel.

Description

Clothing processing device

[0001] The present invention relates to a garment processing device. 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] A clothing 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 clothing processing devices capable of performing washing and drying simultaneously to overcome space constraints and enhance user convenience.

[0004] For the execution of a laundry process, the garment processing device is equipped with a cabinet, a tub for storing water, a drum providing a space for accommodating a processing object, a driving 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.

[0005] Meanwhile, for the execution of the drying process, the garment processing device is equipped with a circulation duct that draws out air from inside the tub and recirculates it to the tub, and a heat exchanger that sequentially performs dehumidification and heating of the air.

[0006] That is, among conventional garment processing devices, there was one in which both a device for the washing process and a device for the drying process were installed inside the cabinet, allowing the washing and drying processes to be selectively executed according to the user's convenience. (KR 10-2022-0021611)

[0007] In the design of garment processing systems, the arrangement of the compressor and heat exchanger is considered a critical design element that determines the system's performance and efficiency. In particular, the refrigerant pipes, which form the refrigerant circulation path, connect the heat exchanger and the compressor; the placement of these pipes can significantly affect the system's heat exchange performance and energy efficiency. Therefore, a design is required that optimizes the length and curvature of the refrigerant pipes to reduce refrigerant pressure loss and prevent interference with internal components.

[0008] In conventional technology, the compressor is placed at the bottom of the cabinet and the heat exchanger is placed at the top of the tub to increase heat exchange efficiency and secure design freedom (CN112095280A).

[0009] However, this layout can lead to problems such as increased refrigerant tube length and complex curvature due to the compressor and heat exchanger being positioned at different locations. Furthermore, longer refrigerant tubes increase pressure loss, degrading heat exchange performance and resulting in reduced energy efficiency. In addition, if the refrigerant tubes interfere with the tub or other internal components, it can cause difficulties during the design and assembly process, as well as reduce the durability of the device and complicate maintenance.

[0010] Prior art (CN116200923A) discloses a technology in which the duct and compressor are positioned off-center on one side of the garment processing unit, and the refrigerant pipe is drawn out from the opposite side of the duct and connected to the compressor. However, this design still presents problems such as increased piping length and complex curvature of the refrigerant pipe, which cause refrigerant pressure loss. Furthermore, since the refrigerant pipe is drawn out in the opposite direction, the possibility of interference with the tub or other internal components increases, creating additional burdens during the design and installation process. This could lead to reduced durability of the device or poor accessibility during maintenance.

[0011] Therefore, a layout design that reduces refrigerant tube length, simplifies curvature, and minimizes interference between components is essential to increase refrigerant circulation efficiency and improve device maintainability. Furthermore, designing for simplified refrigerant tube layouts to reduce production costs and improve space utilization by streamlining the manufacturing and assembly processes is emerging as a critical challenge in the technology sector.

[0012] In addition, there was a conventional garment processing device equipped with both washing and drying processes, in which a heat exchanger was provided above the tub, and the inlet and outlet of the circulation duct equipped with the heat exchanger were arranged on one side (CN214244963U).

[0013] In addition, there was a conventional garment processing device equipped with both washing and drying processes, in which a compressor was positioned below the tub and a refrigerant pipe connecting the compressor and the heat exchanger was extended to overlap with the rear of the tub and formed a curved shape (CN112095280A).

[0014] Meanwhile, conventional washing machines with drying functions had limitations in configuration because both the circulation duct and the heat exchanger were located above the tub, and the compressor was located outside the circulation duct.

[0015] In addition, since the inlet and outlet of the circulation duct are located on the same side, air circulation is not easy, which caused a problem of reduced heat exchange efficiency.

[0016] In addition, since the refrigerant pipes are provided in a curved shape, flow resistance occurs, which caused a problem of reduced thermal efficiency of the heat exchanger.

[0017]

[0018] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device that minimizes refrigerant pressure drop by minimizing the length of the refrigerant pipe and reducing the curvature of the refrigerant flow.

[0019] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device that realizes simplification of the refrigerant flow path by maximizing the straight section of the refrigerant pipe and optimizes the efficiency of the refrigerant circulation system.

[0020] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device equipped with a refrigerant pipe that improves accessibility for installation, repair, and replacement work and increases convenience for maintenance.

[0021] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device that maximizes internal space utilization and realizes miniaturization of the device by optimizing the arrangement of the compressor and heat exchanger.

[0022] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device that reduces the risk of damage by preventing interference between the refrigerant pipe and other components.

[0023] The clothing processing device of the present invention aims to solve the problem of securing space above the tub by placing the compressor below the tub.

[0024] The present invention aims to solve the problem of increasing heat exchange efficiency by efficiently arranging the circulation ducts.

[0025] The clothing processing device of the present invention aims to solve the problem of increasing the flow rate of air passing through the circulation duct.

[0026] The clothing processing device of the present invention aims to solve the problem of efficiently arranging refrigerant pipes.

[0027]

[0028] The present application provides a clothing processing device comprising: a cabinet; a tub provided inside the cabinet for storing water; a drum rotatably provided inside the tub for receiving clothing; a driving unit for rotating the drum; a first side panel forming one side of the cabinet; a second side panel arranged to face the first side panel to form the other side of the cabinet; a duct section for resupplying air discharged from the drum to the drum; a heat exchanger provided inside the duct section, comprising an evaporator for dehumidifying the air discharged from the drum and a condenser for heating the air passing through the evaporator; a compressor for compressing a refrigerant that exchanges heat with the heat exchanger; and a refrigerant pipe forming a circulation path for the refrigerant that exchanges heat with the air in the duct section; wherein the compressor and the heat exchanger are arranged to be offset toward the first side panel, and the refrigerant pipe is provided to be drawn out from the heat exchanger toward the first side panel.

[0029] The above duct section can be positioned on the upper part of the tub.

[0030] The compressor is provided on a base forming the bottom surface of the cabinet, and the refrigerant pipe extends in the vertical direction of the cabinet to connect the heat exchanger and the compressor.

[0031] The compressor is provided at the rear of the base, and a portion of the refrigerant pipe is provided at the rear of the cabinet and can be extended vertically.

[0032] The above refrigerant pipe can be fixed to the end of the first side panel direction of the rear panel that forms the exterior and is positioned at the rear of the cabinet.

[0033] It may include a refrigerant pipe bracket that secures at least a portion of the refrigerant pipe to the rear panel.

[0034] The above refrigerant pipe may be provided so as to be spaced apart from the rear surface of the tub.

[0035] The above refrigerant pipe includes a first refrigerant pipe that delivers the refrigerant from the evaporator to the compressor, a second refrigerant pipe that delivers the refrigerant compressed from the compressor to the condenser, and a third refrigerant pipe that delivers the refrigerant from the condenser to the evaporator. The first refrigerant pipe is connected to the direction of the first side panel of the evaporator and extends along the lower side of the cabinet to be connected to the compressor, and the second refrigerant pipe is connected to the direction of the first side panel of the condenser and extends along the lower side of the cabinet to be connected to the compressor.

[0036] The third refrigerant pipe includes an expansion valve that lowers the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant guided from the condenser to the evaporator, and the expansion valve may be positioned in the direction of the first side panel of the duct section.

[0037] The third refrigerant pipe further includes a dryer for removing moisture and impurities from the refrigerant discharged from the condenser, and the dryer may be positioned in the direction of the first side panel of the duct section.

[0038] The above evaporator and the above condenser can be arranged in the front-rear direction inside the duct section.

[0039] The above duct section extends in the front-rear direction of the cabinet and is provided with a circulation fan mounting section at the rear that accommodates a circulation fan for flowing air in the duct section, the first refrigerant pipe includes a first rear extension section that is connected to the evaporator and extends rearward past the circulation fan mounting section, and the third refrigerant pipe includes a second rear extension section that is connected to the condenser and extends rearward past the circulation fan mounting section, and the first rear extension section and the second rear extension section may be provided so as to be spaced apart from the circulation fan mounting section.

[0040] The rotation axis of the above-mentioned circulation fan can extend in the vertical direction of the cabinet.

[0041] The first refrigerant pipe is connected to the first rear extension and includes a first upper / lower extension that extends along the lower side of the cabinet, and the second refrigerant pipe is connected to the second rear extension and includes a second upper / lower extension that extends along the lower side of the cabinet, and a first bend is formed between the first rear extension and the first upper / lower extension where the first refrigerant pipe bends, and a second bend is formed between the second rear extension and the second upper / lower extension where the second refrigerant pipe bends.

[0042] The first bend or the second bend may be provided in multiple numbers to disperse the bending angle between the first rear extension and the first upper / lower extension or the bending angle between the second rear extension and the second upper / lower extension.

[0043] It may include a refrigerant pipe bracket that fixes at least one of the first upper / lower extension part or the second upper / lower extension part to the cabinet.

[0044] The clothing processing device of the present invention comprises: a cabinet having a clothing input port at the front; a tub having a tub input port provided inside the cabinet and positioned at a location corresponding to the clothing input port for introducing the clothing; a drum rotatably provided inside the tub and provided to receive the clothing; a circulation duct including an inlet duct disposed above the tub for receiving air discharged from the tub, a moving duct forming a path for the air passing through the inlet duct, and a discharge duct forming a path for the air passing through the moving duct to be discharged to the tub; an air circulation unit including an impeller coupled to the circulation duct and rotating to circulate the air of the tub, a fan housing providing a space for accommodating the impeller, and a fan motor coupled to the fan housing to provide power to the impeller; a heat exchanger provided inside the moving duct and disposed in front of the air circulation unit to dehumidify and heat the air passing through the air outlet; a compressor provided to supply high-temperature refrigerant to the heat exchanger; and connecting the compressor and the heat exchanger to the It includes a refrigerant pipe forming a refrigerant flow path, and at least a portion of the refrigerant pipe may be provided above the impeller.

[0045] The circulation duct of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be configured such that the inlet duct is positioned at the rear and the discharge duct is positioned at the front, and the moving duct is configured to connect the inlet duct and the discharge duct and is positioned in the front-rear direction above the tub.

[0046] The upper end of the impeller of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be positioned lower than the upper end of the heat exchanger.

[0047] The fan motor of the clothing processing device of the present invention can be coupled to the upper surface of the impeller.

[0048] The impeller of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be configured such that its rotation axis is perpendicular to the circulation duct.

[0049] The refrigerant pipe of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be arranged so that at least a portion overlaps the fan motor and the tub in the width direction.

[0050] The compressor of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be positioned below the tub.

[0051] The circulation duct of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be provided so as to be offset to one side of the cabinet.

[0052] The compressor of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be provided so as to be offset to one side of the cabinet.

[0053] The impeller of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be configured such that its lower surface is located below the lower surface of the heat exchanger.

[0054] The refrigerant pipe of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be provided between the tub and the cabinet.

[0055] The refrigerant pipe of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be positioned above the inlet duct.

[0056] The refrigerant pipe of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be positioned above the fan housing.

[0057] The air circulation unit of the clothing processing device of the present invention can be coupled to the inlet duct.

[0058] The inlet duct, the compressor, and the refrigerant pipe of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be arranged so that at least a portion overlaps in the vertical direction.

[0059] The refrigerant pipe of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be provided between the rear of the cabinet and the rear of the tub.

[0060]

[0061] The present invention provides a clothing processing device that minimizes refrigerant pressure drop by minimizing the length of the refrigerant pipe and reducing the curvature of the refrigerant flow.

[0062] The present invention provides a clothing processing device equipped with a refrigerant pipe that improves accessibility for installation, repair, and replacement work and increases convenience for maintenance.

[0063] The present invention provides a clothing processing device that maximizes internal space utilization and achieves miniaturization of the device by optimizing the arrangement of the compressor and heat exchanger.

[0064] The present invention provides a clothing processing device that reduces the risk of damage by preventing interference between the refrigerant pipe and other components.

[0065] The present invention provides a clothing processing device that maximizes the straight section of the refrigerant pipe to realize simplification of the refrigerant flow path and optimizes the efficiency of the refrigerant circulation system.

[0066] The clothing processing device of the present invention has the effect of securing space above the tub by placing the compressor below the tub.

[0067] The clothing processing device of the present invention has the effect of increasing heat exchange efficiency by efficiently arranging the circulation ducts.

[0068] The clothing processing device of the present invention has the effect of increasing the flow rate of air passing through the circulation duct.

[0069] The clothing processing device of the present invention has the effect of efficiently arranging refrigerant pipes.

[0070]

[0071] FIG. 1 illustrates the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 2 illustrates the arrangement of the circulation duct and the heat exchanger.

[0073] Figure 3 illustrates the structure of the base and the rear panel.

[0074] Figure 4 illustrates the structure of the tub.

[0075] Fig. 5 illustrates the state in which a circulation duct is installed in a tub.

[0076] FIG. 5(a) illustrates the tub viewed from the front, and FIG. 5(b) illustrates the tub viewed from the rear.

[0077] FIG. 6 illustrates the positional relationship between the circulation duct of the present invention and the tub.

[0078] FIG. 7 illustrates a specific structural example of a duct body.

[0079] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a structure in which a duct body communicates with a tub.

[0080] Figure 9 illustrates the internal configuration of a circulation duct.

[0081] Figure 10 illustrates the internal structure of a circulation duct.

[0082] Fig. 11 illustrates a structure for supplying water to a circulation duct.

[0083] FIG. 12 shows a front view with the front panel removed.

[0084] FIG. 13 illustrates the arrangement of the exhaust duct and the air inlet.

[0085] FIG. 14 illustrates the arrangement of the inlet duct and the air outlet.

[0086] FIG. 15 illustrates the locations where the circulation duct and heat exchanger are positioned.

[0087] Figure 16 illustrates a top view of a circulation duct.

[0088] FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment of a coupling structure in which a bracket is coupled to the top of an air outlet.

[0089] FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment of a coupling structure in which a bracket is coupled to the top of an air outlet.

[0090] FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment of a coupling structure in which a bracket is coupled to the top of an air outlet.

[0091] FIG. 20 illustrates an embodiment of a coupling structure in which a bracket is coupled to the top of an air outlet.

[0092] FIG. 21 illustrates an embodiment of a coupling structure in which a bracket is coupled to the top of an air outlet.

[0093] FIG. 22 illustrates an embodiment of a coupling structure in which a bracket is coupled to the top of an air outlet.

[0094] FIG. 23 illustrates an example of a heat exchanger and a duct section provided in a cabinet.

[0095] FIG. 24 illustrates an example of a duct section and a heat exchange section.

[0096] Figures 25, 26, and 27 illustrate parts of the compressor and refrigerant pipe.

[0097] Figure 28 illustrates an example of a welding line between a refrigerant pipe and a compressor.

[0098] Figure 29 illustrates an example of a refrigerant pipe bracket and a refrigerant pipe.

[0099] Figure 30 illustrates an example of a refrigerant pipe bracket.

[0100] FIG. 31 illustrates an example of a refrigerant pipe bracket fixed to a rear panel.

[0101] Figure 32 illustrates an example of a refrigerant pipe bracket.

[0102] FIG. 33 illustrates an example of a refrigerant pipe bracket fixed to a rear panel.

[0103] Figure 34 illustrates an example of a base.

[0104] FIG. 35 illustrates an example of a base and a configuration mounted on the base.

[0105] Figure 36 illustrates an example of a base and a compressor.

[0106] FIG. 37 illustrates an example of a compressor and a compressor bracket.

[0107] Figure 38 illustrates an example of a compressor bracket.

[0108] FIG. 39 illustrates an example of a fan fixing part provided in a compressor bracket.

[0109] FIG. 40 illustrates an example of a compressor bracket and a ventilation fan.

[0110] FIG. 41 illustrates an example of a compressor module mounted on a base.

[0111] FIG. 42 illustrates an example of the rear of a rear panel.

[0112] FIGS. 43, FIGS. 44, and FIGS. 45 illustrate an example of a PCB module.

[0113] Figure 46 illustrates an example of a PCB module mounted on a base.

[0114] Figure 47 illustrates an example of a cross-section of a PCB module.

[0115]

[0116] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In this specification, identical or similar reference numbers are assigned to identical or similar components even if they are different embodiments, and the description thereof is replaced by the first description. Singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, in describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of related prior art are omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, it should be noted that the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and should not be interpreted as limiting the technical concept disclosed in this specification.

[0117] FIG. 1 illustrates the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0118] 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).

[0119] 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).

[0120] 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).

[0121] 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).

[0122] The above front panel (110) may be provided in a plate shape, and a door (112) for opening and closing the opening may be rotatably coupled.

[0123] The above front panel (110) may be equipped with an interface (I) that receives user commands or displays the status of the clothing processing device above the opening (111). At least a portion of the interface (I) may be provided as a touch panel.

[0124] 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.

[0125] The above installation panel (120) may be equipped with a control panel capable of receiving commands to control the clothing processing device or displaying the operating status of the clothing processing device to the outside.

[0126] The above installation panel (120) can be positioned at the rear of the above front panel (110) (110) and can be coupled to the upper part of the front of the above side panel (150).

[0127] The above-described installation panel (120) may have a panel installation part (121) formed therein for fixing the front of the circulation duct (800) described later. The panel installation part (121) 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, which is fastened to the rear of the circulation duct (800), passes.

[0128] The tub (210) may be provided in a cylindrical shape and may be provided with a tub inlet (213) at the front for introducing clothing. The tub 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).

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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 (210).

[0131] The above water supply and drainage unit (400) may include a water supply unit (410) that supplies water to the tub (210) and a drainage unit (420) that drains the water contained in the tub (210) to the outside of the cabinet (100).

[0132] 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 (210), 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 (210).

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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).

[0135] 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).

[0136] The above circulation unit (430) may include a circulation nozzle (431) coupled to the tub inlet (213) to discharge water into the tub (210), 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).

[0137] The present invention may further include a base (600) forming the bottom surface of the clothing processing device. 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).

[0138] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a support member (500) that supports the tub (210) 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 (210) and the other end of which is connected to the base (600).

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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).

[0141] 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 disposed inside the circulation duct (800) and a compressor (940) disposed outside the circulation duct (800) for supplying high-temperature refrigerant to the heat exchanger.

[0142] The compressor (940) may be positioned below the tub (210). Therefore, a wider space may be secured between the upper part of the tub (210) and the side panel (150) for installing the circulation duct (800). Accordingly, in the clothing processing device of the present invention, the circulation duct (800) may be extended and arranged 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).

[0143] Additionally, by omitting the compressor (940) above the tub (210), the circulation duct (800) can be positioned offset toward either of the two side panels (150) from the top of the tub (210), thereby expanding the cross-sectional area of ​​the circulation duct (800). Accordingly, the clothing processing device of the present invention can circulate a larger flow rate of air to the outside of the tub (210) than when the compressor (940) is positioned above the tub (210).

[0144] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include an air circulation unit (1000) mounted on 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 air circulation unit (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).

[0145] Additionally, since the compressor (940) is positioned below the tub (210), the air circulation unit (1000) can utilize the entire space between the top of the tub (210) and the side panel (150). As a result, the air circulation unit (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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] Figure 2 illustrates the arrangement of the circulation duct and the heat exchanger.

[0148] 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).

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] Meanwhile, the compressor (940) may be positioned so as to be offset from the left or right side of the width direction center (O) of the cabinet (100) in the direction in which the circulation duct (800) is offset.

[0152] For example, the compressor (940) may be placed at the bottom of the circulation duct (800), and the circulation duct (800) and the compressor (940) may be placed so that at least a portion overlaps in the height direction.

[0153] As a result, the vertical distance between the circulation duct (800) and the compressor (940) can be reduced, and the length of the refrigerant pipe (950) connecting the compressor (940) and the heat exchanger placed inside the circulation duct (800) can be reduced. Accordingly, the refrigerant pipe (950) can be arranged in a straight line in the maximum height direction, thereby reducing the flow resistance of the refrigerant and minimizing heat loss occurring in the refrigerant pipe (950).

[0154] 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. Thus, 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.

[0155] 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.

[0156] The above circulation duct (800) may include a duct body (810) on which the heat exchanger is seated, and a duct cover (820) coupled to the duct body (810) to shield the duct body (810).

[0157] 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).

[0158] 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).

[0159] 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).

[0160] 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).

[0161] 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).

[0162] FIG. 3 illustrates the structure of the base and the back panel.

[0163] 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).

[0164] 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.

[0165] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a control unit 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).

[0166] 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.

[0167] 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.

[0168] 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.

[0169] Figure 4 illustrates the structure of the above tub.

[0170] The above tub (210) may include a cylindrical tub body and a tub inlet (213) provided at the front of the tub body through which clothing can be inserted.

[0171] The diameter of the tub inlet (213) may be smaller than the diameter of the tub body. The circulation part (430) may be coupled and fixed to the outer surface of the tub inlet (213).

[0172] The above tub body may be formed by dividing it into a front body and a rear body and joining them together, or it may be molded as a single unit.

[0173] The above tub (210) may further include an air outlet (211) provided at the upper rear of the tub body for discharging air inside the tub (210), and an air inlet (212) provided at the upper part of the tub inlet (213) for receiving air discharged from the circulation duct (800).

[0174] The air outlet (211) may be formed offset to one side from the top of the tub body. By doing so, the air outlet (211) can be extended at a position lower than the top of the tub body, thereby ensuring sufficient space for the air circulation unit (1000) to be installed.

[0175] The air inlet (212) may be formed at the top of the tub inlet (213).

[0176] 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 and communicates with the outside, and a connecting pipe (216) that communicates the vent hole (215) with the outside of the cabinet (100).

[0177] FIG. 5 illustrates the state in which a circulation duct is installed in the above tub.

[0178] FIG. 5(a) illustrates the tub viewed from the front, and FIG. 5(b) illustrates the tub viewed from the rear.

[0179] The above circulation duct (800) may include a duct body (810) that receives air from an air outlet (211) formed at the upper rear of the tub (210) and discharges air to an air inlet (212) 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).

[0180] 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.

[0181] The rear connecting part (850) may be provided to connect the rear of the duct body (810) and the air outlet (211), and the front connecting part (840) may be provided to connect the front of the duct body (810) and the air inlet (212).

[0182] The 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 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 (212).

[0183] The above rear connecting part (850) may be provided in a pipe shape or in a zarab type.

[0184] However, the rear connecting part (850) may be positioned between the duct body (810) and the tub body. 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).

[0185] The above air circulation unit (1000) may be positioned at least partially 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).

[0186] The air circulation unit (1000) may be configured to suck in air from the air outlet (211) and supply it into the duct body (810). That is, the air circulation unit (1000) may supply air from inside the tub (210) into the circulation duct (800) at positive pressure.

[0187] 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.

[0188] FIG. 6 illustrates the positional relationship between the circulation duct of the present invention and the tub.

[0189] The above circulation duct (800) is provided with a resin-based material, and the heat exchanger 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 and the air circulation unit (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), a problem may occur in which the above circulation duct (800) and the above tub (210) collide with each other or, in severe cases, are damaged. Therefore, the above circulation duct (800) may be installed inside the cabinet (100) while maintaining a certain distance from the above tub (210).

[0190] 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).

[0191] FIG. 7 illustrates a specific structural embodiment of the above-mentioned duct body.

[0192] The above duct body (810) may include an inlet duct (811) that receives air from the air outlet (211), a fan housing (812) that extends from the inlet duct (811) and accommodates the air circulation unit (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, and an exhaust duct (815) that extends forward or downward from the installation duct (814) and discharges air to the air inlet (212). The connecting duct and the installation duct together may be referred to as a moving duct that forms the air flow path of the air passing through the inlet duct.

[0193] The above inlet duct (811) may be positioned above the air outlet (211) and may be positioned overlapping the air outlet (211) in the height direction.

[0194] The above inlet duct (811) may be provided in the shape of a pipe or in the shape of a through hole so that the above rear connecting part (850) can be connected.

[0195] The rear connecting part (850) may have one end or lower end connected to or in contact with the air inlet (212), and the other end or upper end connected to or in contact with the inlet duct (811).

[0196] The above-mentioned fan housing (812) may be provided in a circular or spiral shape.

[0197] The above fan housing (812) is provided to be larger than the diameter or area of ​​the above inlet duct (811) so as to secure a space for the air circulation unit (1000) to be installed.

[0198] The above air circulation unit (1000) may be installed in the fan housing (812) to suck in air from the tub (210) and supply it to the heat exchanger.

[0199] The above connecting duct (813) may extend forward from one side of the fan housing (812). The above connecting duct (813) may guide the radial air flow formed by the air circulation unit (1000) forward.

[0200] 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 air circulation unit (1000) can be evenly distributed while slowing down the flow velocity.

[0201] The above installation duct (814) is provided with a width greater than that of the connecting duct (813) so that the heat exchanger can be seated thereon.

[0202] The above installation duct (814) can form a space in which the evaporator and condenser described later are seated.

[0203] The exhaust duct (815) may be formed with a smaller diameter than the installation duct (814). The exhaust duct (815) may be formed so 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 (212).

[0204] The above exhaust duct (815) is extended forward from the above installation duct (814) with a reduced width and can form an opening at the lower front.

[0205] 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 the air circulation section (1000).

[0206] 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).

[0207] 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).

[0208] 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).

[0209] 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).

[0210] 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).

[0211] 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).

[0212] 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).

[0213] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a structure in which a duct body communicates with a tub.

[0214] The above duct body (810) can be extended from the rear to the front of the tub.

[0215] Additionally, the duct body (810) may be provided with a wide width to accommodate the diameter of the air circulation section (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 (211) to the upper part of the air inlet (212).

[0216] Since the air inlet (212) is provided in the tub inlet (213), a space can be formed in which the front connecting part (840) is installed in front of the tub (210).

[0217] However, since the air outlet (211) extends upward from the tub body, if the inlet duct (811) is positioned above the air outlet (211), there may be insufficient space for the rear connecting part (850) to be installed or assembled between the air outlet (211) and the inlet duct (811).

[0218] Accordingly, the bracket (830) may be provided to be seated on the upper part of the tub body to connect the rear connecting part (850) to the air outlet (211). The bracket (830) may be coupled to the upper part of the tub body and bring the lower end of the rear connecting part (850) into close contact with the air outlet (211).

[0219] 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).

[0220] The above bracket (830) may include a bracket body (831) that is seated on the tub body and provided in a plate shape, and a coupling hole (832) provided to penetrate the bracket body. The air outlet (211) may be provided protruding upward from one side of the tub body, and the coupling hole may be positioned spaced above the air outlet, and the bracket body may be provided in a plate shape extending in the width direction so as to be seated on the upper surface of the tub body.

[0221] Figure 9 illustrates the internal configuration of a circulation duct.

[0222] The above air circulation unit (1000) can be positioned above the inlet duct (811).

[0223] The above air circulation unit (1000) may include an impeller (1100) that is housed in the fan housing (812) and introduces air inside the tub body, a fan motor (1200) that is mounted 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).

[0224] 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).

[0225] The above evaporator (910) may be positioned behind the above condenser (920) and close to the air circulation unit (1000), and the above condenser (920) may be connected to the compressor (940) and the refrigerant pipe (950) to receive high-temperature refrigerant.

[0226] When the fan motor (1200) rotates the impeller (1100), the air inside the tub (210) can be introduced into the inlet duct (811) (1). 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) (2).

[0227] The air that has passed through the condenser (920) can be discharged through the exhaust duct (815) and then discharged through the air inlet (212) (3 times).

[0228] This process is performed continuously so that the clothing contained in the drum (220) can be dried.

[0229] Figure 10 illustrates the internal structure of a circulation duct.

[0230] 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. 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 (810) with greater force and without loss.

[0231] 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.

[0232] 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).

[0233] 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.

[0234] The clothing processing 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).

[0235] 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).

[0236] 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).

[0237] 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).

[0238] FIG. 11 illustrates a structure for supplying water to the above-mentioned circulation duct.

[0239] The nozzle part (3000) can be positioned between the lower part of the duct cover (820) and the evaporator (910).

[0240] The above water supply unit (410) may include a water supply pipe (413) connected to the above water supply valve (411) to supply water to the above nozzle unit (3000).

[0241] The above water supply pipe (413) is provided in multiple numbers and can extend from the water supply valve (411) toward both ends of the nozzle section (3000). As a result, water can be evenly supplied to the entire width direction of the nozzle section (3000).

[0242] FIG. 12 shows a front view with the front panel removed.

[0243] Referring to FIG. 12, the tub inlet (213) is provided at the front of the tub (210), and the air inlet (212) may be provided at the upper center of the tub inlet.

[0244] Meanwhile, the air outlet (211) may be provided offset to one side from the rear of the tub (210).

[0245] Additionally, the circulation duct (800) may be provided above the tub (210) and fixed to the installation panel (120). The circulation duct may be provided above the tub, offset to one side where the air outlet (212) is provided, and the circulation duct may be provided to be longer than half the width of the tub. That is, the circulation duct may be provided to encroach upon the center of the tub from one side of the tub.

[0246] Meanwhile, the air inlet (212) and the exhaust duct (815) may be connected by a front connection part (840) to be described later, and the air outlet (211) and the fan housing (812) may be connected by a rear connection part (850) to be described later.

[0247] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 12, the installation duct (814) on which the heat exchanger (910, 920) is installed may be positioned so as to pass through the center of the tub (210) from one side of the tub. That is, the width (D2) of the installation duct may be provided to be longer than half the width (D1) of the tub.

[0248] By doing so, the flow rate of air passing through the above-mentioned moving ducts (813, 814) can be secured, thereby improving drying efficiency.

[0249] FIG. 13 illustrates the arrangement of the exhaust duct and the air inlet.

[0250] The air inlet (212) may be provided at the top center of the tub inlet (213), and the exhaust duct (815) may be arranged so as to overlap at least a portion with the air inlet.

[0251] As a result, the airflow path of the air flowing from the exhaust duct to the air inlet is formed to be close to a straight line, thereby minimizing flow resistance.

[0252] FIG. 14 illustrates the arrangement of the inlet duct and the air outlet.

[0253] The above-mentioned tub (210) includes an air outlet (211) positioned to one side at the rear of the tub and through which air inside the tub is discharged, and the air outlet may be positioned so as to overlap at least a portion with the inlet duct (811).

[0254] Thus, the airflow path from the air outlet (211) to the inlet duct (811) can be formed to be close to a straight line, thereby minimizing flow resistance.

[0255] FIG. 15 illustrates the locations where the circulation duct and heat exchanger are positioned.

[0256] The above circulation duct (800) may be configured such that the inlet duct (811) is positioned at the rear and the discharge duct (815) is positioned at the front, and the moving ducts (813, 814) are configured to connect the inlet duct and the discharge duct, so as to be positioned in the front-rear direction above the tub. Additionally, since the compressor is located below the tub (210), the circulation duct may be positioned in the front-rear direction above the tub and may be positioned offset toward one side of the cabinet (100).

[0257] Meanwhile, the air circulation unit (1000) may be positioned at the rear of the circulation duct (800), the fan housing (812) may be provided inside the duct body (810), and the fan motor (1200) may be coupled to the upper surface of the duct cover (820) so that the rotation shaft (1300) penetrates the duct cover and is coupled to the circulation fan. That is, the rotation shaft may be provided to be perpendicular to the ground. Thus, the impeller may rotate to move air to the rear of the circulation duct. Referring to FIG. 12, the impeller may rotate counterclockwise to move air to the rear of the circulation duct.

[0258] Meanwhile, the refrigerant pipe (950) may be positioned such that at least a portion of it is spaced apart from the tub (210) and does not overlap with the tub in the front-rear direction. That is, the compressor (940) is provided at the rear of one side of the base body (610), and the refrigerant pipe may extend from the compressor upward along the side panel of the cabinet (100) to a height where the heat exchanger (900) is positioned, and then extend from the rear to the front toward the heat exchanger.

[0259] Meanwhile, the air inlet (212) may be provided to be positioned in the center of the tub inlet (213). Since the air outlet (211) is provided offset to one side of the tub (210), the air discharged to one side of the tub is introduced into the center of the tub and circulated, so the hot air can be evenly distributed, thereby improving drying efficiency.

[0260] Meanwhile, the compressor (940) may be positioned below the tub (210) and spaced apart so that at least a portion does not overlap with the circulation duct (800) in the vertical direction. That is, the compressor may be positioned closer to one side of the cabinet than to the circulation duct.

[0261] In other words, since the compressor (940) is exposed to the outside of the tub (210), the refrigerant pipe (950) extending from the compressor can extend vertically upward between one side of the cabinet and the tub without bypassing the tub, thus making it easy to connect the compressor, the evaporator (910), and the condenser (920).

[0262] The fan housing (812) and the impeller (1100) are positioned above the inlet duct, and the lower surfaces of the fan housing and the impeller are located below the lower surfaces of the evaporator (910), the condenser (920), and the installation duct (814), while the upper surface of the fan housing may be located above the upper surfaces of the evaporator (910), the condenser (920), and the installation duct. Since there is a height difference between the upper surfaces of the fan housing and the installation duct, the refrigerant pipe can extend from above the fan housing toward the installation duct without bypassing it. This simplifies the flow path of the refrigerant pipe, thereby improving the efficiency of the refrigerant.

[0263] Figure 16 illustrates a top view of a circulation duct.

[0264] Referring to FIG. 16, the fan motor (1200) may be provided with a width smaller than that of the fan housing (812), so that the refrigerant pipe may extend from above the fan housing into a space where the fan motor is not provided. In other words, the refrigerant pipe may be arranged to overlap with the fan motor in the left-right direction and extend past one side of the fan motor.

[0265] That is, the refrigerant pipe (950) can be extended vertically upward from the compressor (940) and then extended forward at a height corresponding to the upper part of the evaporator (910) (a position higher than the impeller and the fan housing), so the flow path of the refrigerant pipe can be simplified, thereby increasing the efficiency of the refrigerant.

[0266] Additionally, the center of the movable duct (813, 814) may be positioned closer to the center of the tub inlet (213) than to the center of the fan housing (812). That is, the distance (D3) from the center of the movable duct to one side of the cabinet may be longer than the distance (D4) from the center of the fan housing to one side of the cabinet. By doing so, the airflow path discharged from the tub can be made streamlined, thereby reducing flow resistance.

[0267] FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment in which a bracket is provided below the circulation duct.

[0268] Referring to FIG. 17, the bracket (830) may include a fastening hole (8316) that penetrates the bracket body (831) and is coupled to the upper surface of the tub.

[0269] As described above, at least a portion of the bracket (830) is provided between the tub (210) and the circulation duct (800), and the bracket body (831) may be provided to extend to a position where the fastening hole (8316) is positioned so as not to overlap with the circulation duct in the vertical direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the bracket body may be extended in a rod shape, and the fastening hole may be provided at the end. Thus, since the fastening hole is exposed, the worker can easily install it and replace or repair the bracket without removing the circulation duct (800).

[0270] Meanwhile, the bracket body (831) may extend into multiple branches from the coupling hole (8316), and the fastening holes may be provided at the ends of the multiple branches, so that the fastening holes may be provided in multiple numbers. By doing so, the coupling strength between the tub (210) and the bracket (830) can be improved.

[0271] FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate an embodiment in which a bracket is provided below a circulation duct.

[0272] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the duct body (810) may include a through hole (817) that penetrates in the thickness direction to disperse the flow path, and the bracket body (831) may be extended so that the fastening hole (8316) is positioned at a location corresponding to the through hole.

[0273] As shown in FIG. 17, the bracket body (831) may be extended in the shape of a rod so that the fastening hole (8316) is positioned at a location corresponding to the through hole (817), but as shown in FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, it may be extended in the shape of a plate so that the fastening hole is positioned at a location corresponding to the through hole. Since the fastening hole is exposed to the outside by the through hole, it may be easy for the operator to combine the bracket (830) and the tub (210).

[0274] Meanwhile, the above-mentioned through hole (817) may be provided in an area where the flow velocity inside the circulation duct is concentrated so as not to obstruct the flow inside the circulation duct (800).

[0275] Referring to FIG. 18, the impeller (1100) rotates counterclockwise to move air to the rear of the circulation duct (800), and the air can flow counterclockwise to move to the connecting duct. In this case, since the flow velocity is concentrated on the left side of the impeller (1100), the through hole (817) may be provided spaced apart from the impeller to the left. Since the flow velocity is distributed in the area where the flow velocity is concentrated by the through hole, the flow of air can be maintained smoothly.

[0276] Additionally, the through hole (817) may be provided so that it extends in the longitudinal direction of the flow path and its outer surface is formed in a streamlined shape. By doing so, the flow path resistance is reduced, allowing the air flow to be maintained smoothly, thereby preventing a decrease in thermal efficiency caused by the through hole.

[0277] Meanwhile, the above-mentioned through hole (817) can be provided by utilizing a section with low flow velocity.

[0278] Referring to FIG. 18, the flow path adjacent to the impeller (1100) is formed as a curved surface, and a vortex can be generated by the curved surface. Since the flow velocity is low in the area where the vortex is generated, if the through hole (817) is provided in this area, the fastening hole (8316) can be exposed without obstructing the flow of air.

[0279] FIG. 20 illustrates an embodiment of a coupling structure in which a bracket is coupled to the top of an air outlet.

[0280] Referring to FIG. 20, the bracket (830) may include a coupling hole (832) that is coupled to the lower end of the rear connecting part and is configured to communicate with the air outlet and the rear connecting part, a bracket body (831) that extends outwardly from the outer surface of the coupling hole, and a support part (880) that is fixed to the tub (210) to support the bracket. Additionally, the bracket may include a fixing part (8317) configured to combine the bracket and the support part.

[0281] The coupling hole (832) may be provided as a ring having a shape corresponding to the cross-section of the air outlet (211), the bracket body (831) may be provided as a plate shape protruding outward from the outer surface of the coupling hole, and the fixing part (8317) may include a fixing rib provided in a rib shape protruding outward from the bracket body.

[0282] Meanwhile, the circulation duct (800), the rear connecting part (850), and the bracket (830) can be provided as a single unit. Thus, during the assembly process, the circulation duct can be fixed to the cabinet (100) and the bracket can be connected to the support part (880) to complete the assembly, thereby making the work easier.

[0283] The bracket (830) may be coupled to the support member (880) so that the rear connecting member (850) communicates with the circulation duct (800) and the air outlet (211).

[0284] The support member (880) can fix the position so that the bracket (830) is coupled to the tub (210) at an accurate position. When the support member fixes the position of the bracket, the bracket and the tub can be coupled by a fastening member.

[0285] Referring to FIG. 20, the support member (880) may be provided on the outer surface of the tub (210). The support member is coupled to the outer surface of the tub at a position spaced apart from the air outlet (211), and the bracket may be inserted into the support member and coupled between the air outlet and the support member.

[0286] The above fixing part (8317) may include a fixing rib (83171) in the form of a projection protruding outward from the bracket body (831), and the above supporting part (880) may include a supporting body (881) fixed to the tub, and a guide groove (882) provided in the shape of a groove protruding inward from the supporting body so that the bracket (830) rotates and the fixing rib can move a certain distance.

[0287] The guide groove (882) is provided with a length of a certain distance on the inner side of the support body (881), and when the bracket (830) rotates and the fixing rib (83171) moves a certain distance along the guide groove, the movement is blocked so that the bracket can no longer rotate, and the bracket can be positioned in a direction to be coupled to the tub (210).

[0288] That is, the bracket body (831) includes the fastening hole (8316) which is coupled to the tub (210), and the tub may include a tub fastening hole (217) which is provided in a shape corresponding to the fastening hole and coupled to the fastening hole by a fastening member, and the bracket may rotate so that the fastening hole is positioned at a position corresponding to the tub fastening hole by means of the fixing rib (8317) and the guide groove (882).

[0289] FIG. 21 illustrates an embodiment of a coupling structure in which a bracket is coupled to the top of an air outlet.

[0290] Referring to FIG. 21, the support member (880) includes a support body (881) that is seated on the air outlet (211) and configured to communicate with the air outlet and the coupling hole (832), and a guide rib (883) that protrudes upward from the support body and has a groove protruding inwardly on its outer surface. The fixing member (8317) includes a bent rib (83172) that is provided on the bracket body (831) and is bent to engage with the guide rib. The bent rib is configured so that the bracket body is seated on the support body and rotates to engage with the guide rib, thereby allowing the bracket to be fixed to the support member. That is, since the support body can be configured to be coupled with the tub, the bracket and the tub can be coupled.

[0291] The guide ribs (883) and the bending ribs (83172) may be provided in multiple numbers spaced apart from each other, and the spacing between the guide ribs and the spacing between the bending ribs may be provided to be the same.

[0292] FIG. 22 illustrates an embodiment of a coupling structure in which a bracket is coupled to the top of an air outlet.

[0293] The support member (880) comprises a support body (881) that is seated on the air outlet (211) and configured to communicate with the air outlet and the coupling hole (832), a support coupling body (885) that protrudes upward from the upper surface of the support body in a shape corresponding to the air outlet, and a support groove (884) that protrudes upward in a shape corresponding to a part of the support coupling body and protrudes outward from the inner circumference, and the bracket body (831) is configured to engage with the support groove, and the fixing member (8317) comprises a coupling rib (83172) that protrudes downward from the bracket body, and the coupling rib can be coupled to the support coupling body. For example, the coupling rib and the support coupling body can be coupled by a fastening member.

[0294] Referring to FIG. 22, the support groove (884) is provided on one side of the support coupling body (885), and the bracket (830) is inserted into the support groove from the other side, and the coupling rib (83172) and the support coupling body (885) can be joined by a fastening member.

[0295] FIG. 23 illustrates the configuration of the duct section (6) provided inside the cabinet (1) and the compressor (73) provided in the base (5).

[0296] The base (5) can be placed at the bottom of the tub (2) to form the bottom surface of the cabinet (1).

[0297] A duct section (6) for supplying air discharged from the drum (3) back to the drum (3) may be provided on one side in the width direction of the upper part of the tub (2).

[0298] A heat exchanger (70) including an evaporator (71) that dehumidifies the air discharged from the drum (3) and a condenser (72) that heats the air passing through the evaporator (71) can be accommodated inside the duct section (6).

[0299] A compressor (73) that compresses the refrigerant that exchanges heat with the heat exchanger (70) may be provided on one side in the width direction of the base (5).

[0300] A refrigerant pipe (8) that forms a circulation path for the refrigerant exchanging air heat in the duct section (6) through the heat exchanger (70) may be provided.

[0301] In one embodiment of the present invention, the compressor (73) is positioned above the drum (3) and the duct section (6) is provided on the base (5), and the refrigerant pipe (8) may be extended to connect the compressor (73) and the heat exchanger (70) inside the duct section (6) provided on the base (5).

[0302] A portion of the above refrigerant pipe (8) is provided to extend vertically on one side in the width direction of the cabinet (1) to connect the heat exchanger (70) and the compressor (73).

[0303] The compressor (73) is positioned so as to be offset toward the rear side of the base (5), and a portion of the refrigerant pipe (8) may be formed to be provided at the rear of the cabinet (1) and extend vertically.

[0304] Accordingly, the length of the refrigerant pipe (8) connecting the compressor (73) provided on the base (5) and the heat exchanger (70) placed on the upper part of the tub (2) is shortened, and since the bending due to the extension of the refrigerant pipe (8) is minimized, problems such as refrigerant pressure loss can be minimized.

[0305] When the compressor (73) is positioned at the rear of the base (5), a portion of the refrigerant pipe (8) may be provided at the rear of the cabinet (1) and extend vertically.

[0306] In one embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerant pipe (8) is fixed to one end of the rear panel (14) that forms the exterior and is positioned at the rear of the cabinet (1) to connect the heat exchanger (70) and the compressor (73).

[0307] The above refrigerant pipe (8) may be provided to be positioned between the compressor (73) and the first side panel (12) which is positioned on one side of the cabinet (1) and forms the exterior.

[0308] Therefore, the tub (2) and the refrigerant pipe (8) are spaced apart as much as possible, so that the fixation of the refrigerant pipe (8) is stable, breakage due to vibration of the tub (2) can be prevented, and the capacity of the tub (2) can be sufficiently secured.

[0309] At least a portion of the first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) may be provided to be fixed to the rear panel (14). That is, the rear surface (22) of the tub and the refrigerant pipe (8) may be provided to be spaced apart. Accordingly, vibrations transmitted to the refrigerant pipe (8) can be minimized, thereby increasing stability. In addition, the arrangement of the internal configuration of the cabinet (1) can be optimized.

[0310] The compressor (73) may be positioned so as to be offset to one side relative to the vertical plane passing through the rotation axis (323) of the drum (3). The drum (3) may be provided in a cylindrical shape having a circular cross-section at the front so as to be parallel to the ground and the rotation axis (323). In this case, if the compressor (73) is positioned so as to be offset to one side relative to the vertical plane passing through the rotation axis (323) of the drum (3), collision with the tub (2) and the drum (3) is minimized, and it is easy to secure the capacity of the tub (2) and the drum (3).

[0311] Likewise, the cabinet (1) further includes a first side panel (12) that is positioned on one side and forms an exterior, and at least a portion of the first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) may be provided adjacent to the first side panel (12).

[0312] A refrigerant pipe bracket (86) for fixing the refrigerant pipe (8) to the cabinet (1) may be provided to fix the refrigerant pipe (8) to the cabinet (1). As described above. By means of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86), the refrigerant pipe (8) may be fixed to the cabinet (1) such that it is offset to one side of the rear panel (14) and spaced apart from the rear surface (22) of the tub.

[0313] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) is provided between the first side panel (12) provided on one side and the compressor (73) to prevent collision between components inside the cabinet (1) and to enable an optimized arrangement.

[0314] It may further include a drainage section (44) comprising a drainage hose (not shown) that moves water discharged from the tub (2) to a drain (144) provided to penetrate the cabinet (1).

[0315] The above refrigerant pipe (8) may include a weld line (85) formed by welding a metal pipe to connect the above refrigerant pipe (8) and the compressor (73) as described later. In this case, the weld line (85) may be provided so as to be spaced apart from the drain (144).

[0316] Since the drain (144) and the welding line (85) are separated, cracks and damage to the drain (144) and the drain hose are prevented due to heat or changes occurring during the welding process. Additionally, the risk of corrosion and damage can be reduced by minimizing contact between the drain hose, which is the water flow path, the drain (144), and the welding line (85), and the welding line (85). Furthermore, contact with the welding line (85), which has relatively lower structural stability, can be minimized during maintenance of the drain (144) and the drain hose.

[0317] In one embodiment of the present invention, the welding line (85) is positioned above the drain (144) so ​​that the overlap between the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) and the drain (144) can be eliminated.

[0318] The base (5) may be provided with a PCB module (9) that accommodates a PCB that is provided inside the cabinet (1) and performs control and signal processing of the device.

[0319] The compressor (73) may be placed on one side in the width direction of the base (5), and the PCB module (9) may be placed on the other side.

[0320] In one embodiment of the present invention, the compressor (73) may be positioned on one side and the PCB module (9) may be positioned on the other side based on a vertical plane passing through the rotation axis (323) of the drum (3).

[0321] One side of the base (5) in the width direction and one side of the drum (3) may be in the same direction based on the vertical plane passing through the rotation axis (323) of the drum (3). Additionally, one side of the tub (2) that accommodates the drum (3) in the width direction may also be in the same direction. The references for the first side panel (12) provided in one direction of the cabinet (1) and the second side panel (13) arranged in the other direction can be determined by the compressor (73) and the duct section (6). That is, the direction in which the compressor (73) and the duct section (6) are arranged to be offset can be defined as one side, and the panel arranged on that one side can be defined as the first side panel (12).

[0322] As described above, the lowest part of the drum (3) which is provided in a cylindrical shape, the PCB module (9), and the compressor (73) can be spaced as far apart as possible to maximize the volume of the drum (3), the PCB, and the compressor (73).

[0323] The distance between the PCB module (9) and the second side panel (13) that forms the exterior and is positioned on the other side of the cabinet (1) may be shorter than the distance between the compressor (73) and the first side panel (12). The PCB module (9) is provided so that it is easily accessible immediately when the second side panel (13) is disassembled for maintenance, etc., and the distance between the compressor (73) and the first side panel (12) may be relatively increased so that components requiring frequent maintenance, such as the drain hose and the refrigerant pipe (8), are positioned adjacent to the first side panel (12).

[0324] FIG. 24 illustrates a heat exchanger (7) comprising a duct section (6) that recirculates air discharged from the drum (3) back to the drum (3), a refrigerant pipe (8) that forms a circulation path for a refrigerant that exchanges heat with the air in the duct section (6), an evaporator (71) that evaporates the refrigerant by exchanging heat with the air flowing into the duct section (6), a condenser (72) that condenses the refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator (71), and a compressor (73) that pressurizes the refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator (71) and supplies it to the condenser (72).

[0325] As described above, the compressor (73) is provided at the bottom of the tub (2), and the heat exchanger (70), which includes the evaporator (71) and the condenser (72) and is housed in the duct section (6), is positioned at the top of the tub (2), so that a part of the refrigerant pipe (8) can be extended vertically to connect the heat exchanger (70) and the compressor (73).

[0326] The above refrigerant pipe (8) may include a first refrigerant pipe (81) that delivers the refrigerant from the evaporator (71) to the compressor (73), a second refrigerant pipe (82) that delivers the refrigerant compressed from the compressor (73) to the condenser (72), and a third refrigerant pipe (83) that delivers the refrigerant from the condenser (72) to the evaporator (71).

[0327] Accordingly, at least a portion of the first refrigerant pipe (81) connecting the evaporator (71) and the compressor (73) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) connecting the condenser (72) and the compressor (73) may be provided to extend vertically. Likewise, a portion of the vertically extending part of the first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) may be fixed to the cabinet (1) by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86), and to improve the fixing force between the refrigerant pipe (8) and the cabinet (1), the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may also be provided in a shape that extends vertically.

[0328] The above evaporator (71) and the above condenser (72) are arranged in the front-rear direction of the cabinet (1), and the refrigerant pipe (8) can be connected to one side of the evaporator (71) and the condenser (72). Accordingly, when the compressor (73) is connected to one side of the cabinet (1), the extension length of the refrigerant pipe (8) is minimized and connected to one side of the tub (2), thereby minimizing interference with the tub (2).

[0329] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the cabinet (1) includes a first side panel (12) forming one side and a second side panel (13) arranged to face the first side panel (12) to form the other side of the cabinet (1), and the duct section (6) may be arranged so as to be offset from the first side panel (12), and the compressor (73) may also be provided to be arranged on the first side panel (12).

[0330] In the above-described case, the refrigerant pipe (8) may be drawn out from the duct section (6) toward the first side panel (12) and extend along the first side panel (12) in the vertical direction of the cabinet (1). The refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may be positioned to be in contact with the first side panel (12) to secure the refrigerant pipe (8), or may be positioned at a predetermined distance from the first side panel (12) to secure the refrigerant pipe (8).

[0331] The above refrigerant pipe (8) is drawn out through one side of the above duct section (6), and the above duct section (6) may be provided to partially overlap with the top of the above tub (2).

[0332] In the above-described case, the refrigerant pipe (8) can be connected to the compressor (73), which is positioned so as to be offset to one side and extends in the vertical direction of the cabinet (1). Accordingly, compared to the case where the refrigerant pipe (8) is drawn out through the other side of the duct section (6), the length of the refrigerant pipe (8) can be reduced and the curvature can be simplified. Therefore, the pressure loss of the refrigerant pipe (8) is reduced, energy efficiency is improved, the durability of the refrigerant pipe (8) is strengthened, and the manufacturing and installation process can be simplified.

[0333] When the above refrigerant pipe (8) is extended in the same direction as the direction from which it is drawn out of the duct section (6) and connected to the compressor (73), interference between the components inside the cabinet (1) is minimized, thereby increasing space utilization.

[0334] In the above-described structure, most of the refrigerant pipe (8) is positioned so as to be offset to one side of the cabinet (1), so that access to the refrigerant pipe (8) is easy through one side of the cabinet (1), thereby improving accessibility during maintenance.

[0335] The above duct section (6) is provided to extend in the front-rear direction of the cabinet (1) to receive air from the drum (3) to the rear and recirculate it to the front, and a circulation fan mounting section (68) may be provided at the rear, in which a circulation fan (77) is mounted to flow air from the duct section (6).

[0336] The above duct section (6) extends in the front-rear direction of the cabinet (1), and a circulation fan mounting section (68) may be provided at the rear, which accommodates a circulation fan (77) that flows air through the duct section (6).

[0337] The first refrigerant pipe (81) may include a first rear extension (812) that is connected to the evaporator (71) and extends rearward through the circulation fan mounting part (68), and the second refrigerant pipe (82) may include a second rear extension (822) that is connected to the condenser (72) and extends rearward through the circulation fan mounting part (68).

[0338] The first rear extension (812) and the second rear extension (822) may be provided so as to be spaced apart from the circulation fan mounting part (68). Accordingly, the reduction in the operating efficiency of the refrigerant pipe (8) due to the operating heat of the circulation fan (77) can be minimized.

[0339] Additionally, since the above-mentioned circulation fan mounting part (68) is configured to generate vibration and noise due to the rotation of the above-mentioned circulation fan (77), it is spaced apart from the above-mentioned refrigerant pipe (8) to prevent vibration from being transmitted to the above-mentioned refrigerant pipe (8) and to prevent noise from increasing, and the fixing reliability of the above-mentioned refrigerant pipe (8) can be increased.

[0340] The fan rotation axis (771) of the above-mentioned circulation fan (77) may be provided to extend in the vertical direction of the cabinet (1). Thus, the height of the circulation fan mounting part (68) is minimized, thereby improving the freedom of placement of the duct part (6). In addition, when the duct part (6) circulates air from the rear to the front of the drum (3), the rear placement of the duct part (6) is facilitated so that the circulation fan (77) moves the air forward, thereby minimizing the transmission of vibration and noise caused by the rotation of the circulation fan (77) to the user and making maintenance of the circulation fan (77) easier.

[0341] That is, in this case, the evaporator (71) and the condenser (72) can be arranged side by side in the front-rear direction inside the duct section (6), and can be positioned so as to be offset to one side relative to a vertical plane perpendicular to the rotation axis (323) of the drum (3) so as to avoid the uppermost part of the drum (3) which is provided in a cylindrical shape.

[0342] The third refrigerant pipe (83) includes an expansion valve (74) that lowers the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant guided from the condenser (72) to the evaporator (71), and the expansion valve (74) can be positioned on one side of the duct section (6). Accordingly, when the first side panel (12), which is positioned on one side of the cabinet (1) and forms the exterior of the cabinet (1), is removed, the expansion valve (74) is exposed, making maintenance easier, and the distance between the tub (2) and the expansion valve (74) is increased, thereby increasing stability.

[0343] In the above-described case, the above-described side may be in the direction of the first side panel (12).

[0344] The third refrigerant pipe (83) further includes a dryer (75) that removes moisture and impurities from the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (72), and the dryer (75) may be positioned on one side of the duct section (6). Likewise, when the first side panel (12), which is positioned on one side of the cabinet (1) and forms the exterior of the cabinet (1), is removed, the dryer (75) is exposed, making maintenance easier, and the distance between the tub (2) and the dryer (75) is increased, thereby increasing stability.

[0345] In the above-described case, the above-described side may be in the direction of the first side panel (12).

[0346] The compressor (73) may be fixed, and a compressor bracket (54) coupled to at least one of the rear panel (14) or the base (5) may be further included. In this case, the duct section (6), the heat exchanger (70) housed inside the duct section (6), the refrigerant pipe (8), and the compressor (73) can be modularized and subsequently installed separately from other components of the clothing processing device (100), thereby improving transportability and assembly.

[0347] The compressor bracket (54) can be fixed so as to be offset to one side of the rear panel (14) which forms the exterior and is positioned at the rear of the cabinet (1). Accordingly, the distance from the heat exchanger (70) accommodated inside the duct section (6) formed offset to one side is minimized, thereby reducing the length of the refrigerant pipe (8) and reducing the bend (84) of the refrigerant pipe (8), so that problems such as pressure drop can be minimized.

[0348] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may be provided with a detachment prevention rib (864) that prevents the refrigerant pipe (8) from detaching. Therefore, the problem of the refrigerant pipe (8) detaching from the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) can be prevented.

[0349] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) is provided with a rear surface (860) that is coupled to the rear panel (14) as described below, and two side surfaces (862, 863) that extend forward from both ends of the rear surface (860), and the anti-detachment ribs (864) may be provided to extend toward each other from the ends of the side surfaces (862, 863).

[0350] The above anti-detachment ribs (864) may be provided in multiple numbers and arranged so as not to overlap in the height direction of the cabinet (1). Thus, a portion of the refrigerant pipe (8) extending vertically can be effectively fixed.

[0351] FIG. 25 illustrates the first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) extending in the vertical direction and connecting to the compressor (73).

[0352] The first refrigerant pipe (81) is connected to the first rear extension (812) and includes a first upper / lower extension (813) that extends along the lower side of the cabinet (1), and the second refrigerant pipe (82) is connected to the second rear extension (822) and includes a second upper / lower extension (823) that extends along the lower side of the cabinet (1), and a first bend (841) in which the first refrigerant pipe (81) bends is formed between the first rear extension (812) and the first upper / lower extension (813), and a second bend (842) in which the second refrigerant pipe (82) bends can be formed between the second rear extension (822) and the second upper / lower extension (823).

[0353] The first bend (841) or the second bend (842) is provided in multiple numbers, so that the bending angle between the first rear extension (812) and the first upper / lower extension (813) or the bending angle between the second rear extension (822) and the second upper / lower extension (823) can be dispersed to minimize the pressure drop of the refrigerant caused by the bend.

[0354] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may be provided to fix at least one of the first upper / lower extension part (813) or the second upper / lower extension part (823) to the rear panel (14).

[0355] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may be provided with an insulating material (87) that is foamed along the outer surface of the refrigerant pipe (8) to insulate the refrigerant pipe (8).

[0356] When the above insulation material (87) is provided in a foaming manner, the cooling efficiency can be maximized because the thermal conductivity is reduced by the bubbles, and it can be easy to absorb vibration and noise by filling the gap between the above refrigerant pipe (8) and the above refrigerant pipe bracket (86).

[0357] In addition, the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) and the refrigerant pipe (8) are more firmly fixed by the insulation material (87), making it easier to protect the refrigerant pipe (8) from external shocks or vibrations, and thus preventing the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) from becoming a thermal bridge, which makes it easier to protect the parts around the refrigerant pipe bracket (86).

[0358] The first refrigerant pipe (81) may include a first auxiliary passage (811) connected to the evaporator (71) and extending downward to the cabinet (1), and a second auxiliary passage (816) connected to the first auxiliary passage (811) and connected to the compressor (73).

[0359] The second refrigerant pipe (82) may include a third auxiliary passage (821) that is connected to the condenser (72) and extends downward into the cabinet (1), and a fourth auxiliary passage (826) that is in communication with the third auxiliary passage (821) and connected to the compressor (73).

[0360] Accordingly, the first rear extension (812) and the first upper / lower extension (813) may be provided in the first auxiliary channel (811), and the second rear extension (822) and the second upper / lower extension (823) may be provided in the third auxiliary channel (821).

[0361] A portion of the first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) and the compressor (73) can be modularized and subsequently installed in the clothing processing device (100).

[0362] As described later, the compressor bracket (54) may be provided to include a support surface (55) fixed to the base (5) and on which the compressor (73) is seated, and a coupling surface (56) extending from the edge of the support surface (55) and coupled to the cabinet (1).

[0363] Accordingly, the compressor (73) can be fixed to the cabinet (1) by the compressor bracket (54) which subsequently fixes the compressor (73) to the base (5).

[0364] FIG. 26 illustrates a first embodiment in which a compressor module (CM) including a compressor (73) and a compressor bracket (54) is connected to a portion of the first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) supported by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86).

[0365] As described above, the first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) may be provided with a weld line (85) formed by welding a metal pipe.

[0366] The above welding line (85) is not limited to a specific shape, and it is sufficient if it is a shape that is distinguishable from the surrounding area due to a weld bead shape, welding reinforcement, groove and undercut, a surface texture different from the surrounding area, traces of heat deformation, impurities or pores, or a shape that allows a person skilled in the art to know that two components are connected by welding.

[0367] When the compressor module (CM) and the refrigerant pipe (8) are subsequently welded and installed, the refrigerant pipe (8) and the compressor (73) can be installed without interference with other parts, thereby making the assembly process more efficient and facilitating performance testing of individual parts, which can increase quality reliability.

[0368] The first refrigerant pipe (81) includes a first auxiliary passage (811) that is connected to the evaporator (71) and extends downward to the cabinet (1), and a second auxiliary passage (816) that is connected to the first auxiliary passage (811) and connected to the compressor (73), and a first welding line (851) formed at the connection portion between the first auxiliary passage (811) and the second auxiliary passage (816) may be provided.

[0369] The second refrigerant pipe (82) is connected to the condenser (72) and includes a third auxiliary passage (821) extending downward from the cabinet (1) and a fourth auxiliary passage (826) communicating with the third auxiliary passage (821) and connected to the compressor (73), and a second welding line (852) formed at the connection portion between the third auxiliary passage (821) and the fourth auxiliary passage (826) may be provided.

[0370] That is, it is produced by dividing it into a first part section equipped with the first auxiliary flow path (811), the second auxiliary flow path (816), and the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) positioned above the first welding line (851) and the second welding line (852), and a second part section including the third auxiliary flow path (821), the fourth auxiliary flow path (826), and the compressor (73) module positioned below the first welding line (851) and the second welding line (852), and can be installed in the clothing processing device (100) in a manner where the first part section and the second part section are subsequently connected.

[0371] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may be installed separately from the first part and the second part. That is, it is sufficient that the above components are provided so that they can be installed in the clothing processing device (100) through the welding connection of the first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82).

[0372] FIG. 27 illustrates a second embodiment in which a compressor module (CM) including a compressor (73) and a compressor bracket (54) is connected to a portion of the first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) supported by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86).

[0373] In the second embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, the third auxiliary path (821) and the fourth auxiliary path (826) are produced separately and subsequently connected to the compressor (73).

[0374] The specific shape is as follows. It may include a first welding line (851) formed at the connection portion between the first auxiliary channel (811) and the second auxiliary channel (816), and a second welding line (852) formed at the connection portion between the third auxiliary channel (821) and the fourth auxiliary channel (826).

[0375] The first refrigerant pipe (81) may further include a third welding line (853) formed at the connection portion between the second auxiliary flow path (816) and the compressor (73).

[0376] The second refrigerant pipe (82) may further include a fourth welding line (854) formed at the connection portion between the fourth auxiliary flow path (826) and the compressor (73).

[0377] One end of the second auxiliary channel (816) is connected to the first auxiliary channel (811), and the other end of the second auxiliary channel (816) is branched into a first stage (8111) and a second stage (8112), so that the first stage (8111) is connected to the compressor (73) and the second stage (8112) can be connected to a pressure sensor (76) that detects the pressure of the refrigerant evaporated in the evaporator (71).

[0378] The first refrigerant pipe (81) may include a fifth welding line (855) formed at the connection portion between the second auxiliary flow path (816) and the pressure sensor (76).

[0379] That is, it can be produced by dividing into a first part section comprising the first auxiliary flow path (811), the second auxiliary flow path (816), and the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) positioned above the first welding line (851) and the second welding line (852), a second part section comprising the third auxiliary flow path (821) forming the line from the first welding line (851) to the third welding line (853), the fourth auxiliary flow path (826) forming the line from the second welding line (852) to the third welding line (853) and the fourth welding line (854), and a third part section comprising the compressor (73) module.

[0380] The above-mentioned first part, the above-mentioned second part, and the above-mentioned third part may be installed in the clothing processing device (100) in a manner that is subsequently connected. The above-mentioned refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may be installed separately from the above-mentioned first part and the above-mentioned second part. That is, it is sufficient that the above components are provided so that they can be installed in the clothing processing device (100) through the welding connection of the above-mentioned first refrigerant pipe (81) and the above-mentioned second refrigerant pipe (82).

[0381] In the case of the first embodiment above, the number of welding lines (85) is relatively reduced compared to the second embodiment, so the possibility of the refrigerant leaking through the welding lines (85) is reduced, thereby increasing stability, and the space required for installation is reduced, thereby increasing space efficiency.

[0382] In the case of the second embodiment above, compared to the first embodiment, each part is connected independently, so repair or replacement can be relatively easy, and efficiency can be increased by allowing parts to be processed separately during assembly and transportation.

[0383] That is, the first embodiment is advantageous in terms of ease of installation and leakage prevention, while the second embodiment is advantageous in terms of maintenance and design flexibility, so the user can select an embodiment according to the installation and usage environment.

[0384] Figure 28 illustrates the connection between the second part and the first part.

[0385] The welding line (85) can be formed at a position having a separation distance (G1) from the refrigerant pipe bracket (86). This minimizes the weakening of the structural strength of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) due to high-temperature heat generated by the welding operation, the weakening of the fixed state of the refrigerant pipe (8), and the transmission of vibrations generated during welding to the refrigerant pipe (8).

[0386] The first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) include an insulating material (87) provided to wrap around the outer surface to insulate the refrigerant pipe (8), and the welding line (85) may be provided at a position having a separation distance (G2) from the insulating material (87). Therefore, heat generated during the welding process can be prevented from being transferred to the insulating material (87), thereby preventing the insulating material (87) from melting or shrinking, which would degrade its insulation performance or cause damage. Additionally, safety accidents such as ignition during the welding process of the insulating material (87) can be prevented.

[0387] The first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) each include a first support section (815) and a second support section (825) supported by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86), and may include a first insulation section (814) and a second insulation section (824) insulated by the insulation material (87).

[0388] Specifically, the first refrigerant pipe (81) may include a first support section (815) supported by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) and a first thermal section (8111) insulated by the insulation material (87), and the second refrigerant pipe (82) may include a second support section (825) supported by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) and a second thermal section (8112).

[0389] The above insulation section and the above support section (815, 825) may overlap and may be provided separately in some parts.

[0390] The lower end of the insulation section may be provided above the lower end of the support section (815, 825), and the lower end of the support section (815, 825) may be provided above the welding line (85).

[0391] Specifically, the first welding line (851) may be located below the first support section (815) of the first refrigerant pipe (81) supported by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86), and the second welding line (852) may be located below the second support section (825) of the second refrigerant pipe (82) supported by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86).

[0392] When the above-described arrangement (G2 > G1) is maintained, the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) and the insulation material (87) are protected from heat damage caused by welding, stability is maintained, and the risk of fire can be reduced. Additionally, when the welding line (85) is located at the bottom of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) and the insulation material (87) is positioned above the bottom of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86), the method of installing the foamed insulation material (87) is maintained, and at the same time, interference between the welding heat and the insulation material (87) during the welding operation is minimized, thereby preventing a decrease in insulation performance.

[0393] FIG. 40 shows a portion of the refrigerant pipe (8) fixed by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86).

[0394] As described above, the compressor (73) is provided at the bottom of the tub (2), and the heat exchanger (70), which includes the evaporator (71) and the condenser (72) and is housed in the duct section (6), is positioned at the top of the tub (2), so that a part of the refrigerant pipe (8) can be extended vertically to connect the heat exchanger (70) and the compressor (73).

[0395] Accordingly, at least a portion of the first refrigerant pipe (81) connecting the evaporator (71) and the compressor (73) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) connecting the condenser (72) and the compressor (73) may be provided to extend vertically. Likewise, a portion of the vertically extending part of the first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82) may be fixed to the cabinet (1) by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86), and to improve the fixing force between the refrigerant pipe (8) and the cabinet (1), the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may also be provided in a shape that extends vertically.

[0396] The first refrigerant pipe (81) may include a first rear extension (812) that is connected to the evaporator (71) and extends rearward past the circulation fan mounting part (68), and a first upper / lower extension (813) that is connected to the first rear extension (812) and extends along the lower side of the cabinet (1), and the second refrigerant pipe (82) may include a second rear extension (822) that is connected to the condenser (72) and extends rearward past the circulation fan mounting part (68), and a second upper / lower extension (823) that is connected to the second rear extension (822) and extends along the lower side of the cabinet (1).

[0397] A first bend (841) in which the first refrigerant pipe (81) is bent is formed between the first rear extension (812) and the first upper / lower extension (813), and a second bend (842) in which the second refrigerant pipe (82) is bent can be formed between the second rear extension (822) and the second upper / lower extension (823).

[0398] The above-mentioned bending portion (84) is provided in multiple numbers, so that the bending angle between the first rear extension portion (812) and the first upper / lower extension portion (813) or the bending angle between the second rear extension portion (822) and the second upper / lower extension portion (823) can be dispersed to minimize the pressure drop of the refrigerant caused by the bending.

[0399] In addition, when the above-mentioned bends (84) are provided in multiple numbers, the flow resistance of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant pipe (8) is reduced, and fatigue and damage during the production of the refrigerant pipe (8) are reduced, thereby improving durability.

[0400] Figure 41 above illustrates that the first refrigerant pipe (81) is provided with a first bend (841) and a third bend (843), and the second refrigerant pipe (82) is provided with a second bend (842) and a fourth bend (844).

[0401] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may be provided to fix at least one of the first upper / lower extension part (813) or the second upper / lower extension part (823) to the rear panel (14).

[0402] The first refrigerant pipe (81) may include a first auxiliary passage (811) connected to the evaporator (71) and extending downward to the cabinet (1), and a second auxiliary passage (816) connected to the first auxiliary passage (811) and connected to the compressor (73).

[0403] The second refrigerant pipe (82) may include a third auxiliary passage (821) that is connected to the condenser (72) and extends downward into the cabinet (1), and a fourth auxiliary passage (826) that is in communication with the third auxiliary passage (821) and connected to the compressor (73).

[0404] Accordingly, the first rear extension (812) and the first upper / lower extension (813) may be provided in the first auxiliary channel (811), and the second rear extension (822) and the second upper / lower extension (823) may be provided in the third auxiliary channel (821).

[0405] The above insulation material (87) may be provided to insulate a part of the first auxiliary channel (811) and a part of the second auxiliary channel (816).

[0406] As described above, the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may be provided with a detachment prevention rib (864) that prevents the refrigerant pipe (8) from detaching. Therefore, the problem of the refrigerant pipe (8) detaching from the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) can be prevented.

[0407] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) is provided with a rear surface (860) that is coupled to the rear panel (14), and two side surfaces (862, 863) that extend forward from both ends of the rear surface (860), and the anti-detachment ribs (864) may be provided to extend toward each other from the ends of the side surfaces (862, 863).

[0408] The above anti-detachment ribs (864) may be provided in multiple numbers and arranged so as not to overlap in the height direction of the cabinet (1). Thus, a portion of the refrigerant pipe (8) extending vertically can be effectively fixed.

[0409] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may be provided with a dividing rib (865) that separates the first refrigerant pipe (81) and the second refrigerant pipe (82). Specifically, the dividing rib (865) may be provided in a shape that extends forward from the front of the rear surface (860).

[0410] The above-mentioned split rib (865) facilitates the installation and maintenance of the refrigerant pipe (8), prevents thermal interference between the refrigerant pipes (8), and prevents the refrigerant pipe (8) from being damaged by collision or friction from vibrations or shocks that occur during the operation of the clothing processing device (100).

[0411] A portion of the above support section (815, 825) may be arranged so as not to overlap with the above insulation section (814, 824).

[0412] When the above support section (815, 825) and the above insulation section (814, 824) are arranged so as not to overlap in some areas, a welded portion may be provided in an area that is not included in the above insulation section (814, 824) but is included in the above support section (815, 825), thereby preventing damage to the insulation material (87) due to welding heat during welding work while maintaining connection strength.

[0413] When the support section (815, 825) and the insulation section (814, 824) do not partially overlap, pressure is not applied to a part of the insulation material (87) by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86), thereby reducing the risk of damage to the insulation material (87), while the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) protects a part of the insulation material (87), thereby cushioning vibrations and shocks.

[0414] In some design of the support section (815, 825) and the insulation section (814, 824), the thermal bridge path is partially blocked, so the insulation performance can be improved.

[0415] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lower end of the support section (815, 825) may be located lower than the lower end of the insulation section (814, 824). Additionally, the lower end of the support section (815, 825) may be provided above the welding line (85).

[0416] Specifically, the first welding line (851) may be located below the first support section (815) of the first refrigerant pipe (81) supported by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86), and the second welding line (852) may be located below the second support section (825) of the second refrigerant pipe (82) supported by the refrigerant pipe bracket (86).

[0417] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) and the above insulation material (87) can be protected from heat damage caused by welding, maintain stability, and reduce the risk of fire.

[0418] When the welding line (85) is positioned at the bottom of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) and the insulation material (87) is positioned above the bottom of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86), the method of installing the foamed insulation material (87) is maintained, and at the same time, interference between the welding heat and the insulation material (87) during the welding operation is minimized, thereby preventing a decrease in insulation performance.

[0419] In one embodiment of the present invention, the upper portion of the insulation section (814, 824) may be located on the upper portion of the support section (815, 825). In this case, as described above, there is an effect of the support section (815, 825) and the insulation section (814, 824) being partially non-overlapping, and the insulation section (814, 824) extending to the curved portion (84) is protected by the insulation material (87).

[0420] The above insulation material (87), in particular, the foam insulation material (87) can be flexibly filled according to the shape of the curved portion (84), so that the insulation material (87) can be uniformly applied to the curved portion (84), thereby not only maintaining the insulation performance of the curved portion (84) but also stably supporting the curved portion (84) to prevent deformation or damage to the refrigerant pipe (8).

[0421] FIG. 41 shows an example of a fastening portion (861) of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) that is fastened to the rear panel (14), and FIG. 42 shows the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) fixed to the rear panel (14) by the fastening portion (861) of FIG. 41.

[0422] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may be made of a hard material. Therefore, the ability to absorb and disperse vibrations is improved, so that shaking and vibrations that may occur at the connection part (861) with the rear panel (14) are dampened, and noise caused by vibrations and wear of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) can be minimized. In addition, since the deformation of the connection part (861) is minimized, the gap between the connection part (861) and the rear panel (14) is minimized, and the reliability of the connection of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) can be improved.

[0423] Accordingly, as an embodiment of the present invention, the fastening part (861) may be provided in a shape as shown in FIG. 41.

[0424] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) may be provided with a plurality of fastening parts (861) that are connected to the rear panel (14).

[0425] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) is provided to extend in the height direction of the cabinet (1) and is fixed to the rear panel (14), and the fastening part (861) is provided in multiple numbers and can be arranged in the height direction of the cabinet (1).

[0426] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) is slidably fastened to the rear panel (14) from the upper side to the lower side, and at least one of the fastening parts (861) may be provided in a shape that is supported in the upper side by the rear panel (14).

[0427] In one embodiment of the present invention, the fastening part (861) shown in FIG. 41 is extended so as to protrude to the rear of the rear surface (860) of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86), and the part extended so as to protrude is supported by the rear panel (14) by the fastening structure in which the protruding end is bent downward, and the movement of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) in the front and rear directions can be restricted by the part bent downward.

[0428] In this case, even if the elasticity of the fastening part (861) itself or a separate fastening structure is not provided, the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) is stably fixed to the rear panel (14) by gravity due to the weight of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86), so the structure is simplified and it is easy to provide the material of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) as a hard material.

[0429] FIG. 32 shows an example of a fastening portion (861) of the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) that is fastened to the rear panel (14), and FIG. 34 shows the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) fixed to the rear panel (14) by the fastening portion (861) of FIG. 32.

[0430] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) is provided to extend in the height direction of the cabinet (1) and is fixed to the rear panel (14), and the fastening part (861) is provided in multiple numbers and can be arranged in the height direction of the cabinet (1).

[0431] In one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the fastening portions (861) may be provided in a shape that restricts movement by being fastened to the rear panel (14) in the front-rear direction.

[0432] For example, as shown in FIG. 32 above, while the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) moves forward and backward on the rear panel (14), the fastening part (861) is pressed and deformed, and when the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) is completely fixed to the rear panel (14), the fastening part (861) is restored and the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) can be provided in a shape that is coupled to the rear panel (14). However, it is not necessary for all shapes to be provided as described above, and it is sufficient if the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) is provided in a shape that can be inserted and fixed to the rear panel (14) in the forward and backward direction.

[0433] In order to utilize the elasticity of the above-mentioned fastening part (861), the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) of FIG. 32 may be provided with a material having more flexibility than the bracket of FIG. 41. In this case, it may be provided so that installation or removal is easier compared to the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) of FIG. 41.

[0434] FIG. 34 shows a base (5) forming the bottom surface of the cabinet (1), and FIG. 35 shows a configuration of the clothing processing device (100) mounted on the base (5), which will be described below.

[0435] The compressor (73), which is provided outside the duct section (6) and pressurizes the refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator (71) and supplies it to the condenser (72), and the PCB module (9), which is provided inside the cabinet (1) and accommodates a PCB that performs device control and signal processing, can be placed on the base (5).

[0436] When the duct section (6) including the heat exchanger (70) and the compressor (73) are provided together on the upper part of the tub (2), the shape and size of the heat exchanger (70) may be limited due to interference with the tub (2), and thus the heat exchange efficiency may be reduced.

[0437] When the above duct section (6) is positioned on the upper part of the tub (2), the compressor (73) is provided on the base (5), thereby improving the freedom of placement and size of the heat exchanger (70), and the capacity of the tub (2) can be increased by minimizing interference between the compressor (73) and the tub (2).

[0438] When the above PCB module (9) is fixed to the base (5), it is easy to resist vibrations caused by the operation of the clothing processing device (100), and external electromagnetic interference (EMI) is reduced so that the signal of the PCB circuit can be maintained stably, and assembly or maintenance of the above PCB module (9) can be made easier.

[0439] In one embodiment of the present invention, the compressor (73) may be disposed on one side in the width direction of the base (5) and the PCB module (9) may be disposed on the other side.

[0440] In one embodiment of the present invention, the compressor (73) may be positioned on one side and the PCB module (9) on the other side based on a vertical plane passing through the rotation axis (323) of the drum (3).

[0441] The above PCB module (9) may need to have a certain height to reduce electromagnetic interference with the height of the PCB itself and other electronic components provided inside, and to dissipate heat generated.

[0442] The above compressor (73) may also need to have a certain height to prevent the transmission of vibrations generated during operation and to dissipate heat generated.

[0443] Accordingly, when the compressor (73) and the PCB module (9) are respectively placed on one side and the other side of the bottom of the tub (2) which is provided in a cylindrical shape, it is easy to secure the height of each component while avoiding interference with the tub (2), so the capacity of the tub (2) can be increased.

[0444] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the base (5) is provided with a compressor mounting portion (51) on which the compressor (73) is mounted, and the compressor mounting portion (51) may be positioned so as to be offset on one side of a vertical plane passing through the rotation axis (323) of the drum (3).

[0445] The compressor (73) may be positioned so as to be offset toward the rear of the base (5) in the front-rear direction. This allows high-temperature air generated by the compressor (73) to be easily discharged toward the rear of the cabinet (1), and facilitates easy access to the power supply line. Additionally, noise and vibration transmitted to the user are reduced, improving usability, and other electrical components can be accommodated in the front, thereby increasing the freedom of design.

[0446] In this case, the compressor mounting part (51) may be positioned so as to be offset towards the rear of the front and rear directions of the base (5).

[0447] When the compressor (73) is positioned at the rear, it may be easy to connect the refrigerant pipe (8), which is connected to the heat exchanger (70) positioned at the top of the tub (2), to the rear panel (14). When the refrigerant pipe (8) is fixed to the rear panel (14), the total extension length of the refrigerant pipe (8) is reduced and the bending portion is reduced, thereby minimizing the pressure drop of the refrigerant and preventing issues of reduced durability due to vibration, etc., due to the separation from the tub (2).

[0448] The apparatus includes a plurality of dampers connecting the tub (2) to the base (5) to dampen the vibration of the tub (2), and among the plurality of dampers, a first damper (251) fixed to one side in the width direction of the base (5) can be provided to avoid the compressor (73). Accordingly, performance degradation or damage caused by the transmission of vibration and shock between them can be prevented.

[0449] The compressor (73) may be positioned so as to be spaced apart from the first side panel (12) that forms the exterior and is positioned on one side of the cabinet (1).

[0450] In one embodiment of the present invention, the damper may be coupled to a damper fixing shaft (250) fixed to the base (5) to fix the tub (2) to the base (5). At this time, the damper fixing shaft (250) may be provided to extend between the compressor (73) and the first side panel (12).

[0451] In order to fix the tub (2) to one side of the base (5) while minimizing the number of dampers, the first damper (251) may be positioned at the center of one side of the base (5). Considering the general size of the compressor (73) and the base (5), if the damper fixing shaft (250) of the first damper (251) is provided to extend between the compressor (73) and the first side panel (12), interference between the damper and the compressor (73) may be easily avoided.

[0452] A hose groove (503) is provided between the compressor (73) and the first side panel (12) to secure the drainage hose, thereby minimizing interference between the drainage section (44) and the compressor (73).

[0453] In one embodiment of the present invention, the base (5) may be provided with a PCB mounting surface (53) on which the PCB module (9) is mounted.

[0454] The base (5) is provided with a second damper fixing part (522) for fixing a second damper (252) disposed on the other side in the width direction of the base (5) among a plurality of dampers, and a third damper fixing part (523) for fixing a third damper (253) disposed on the other side in the width direction of the base (5).

[0455] The PCB mounting surface (53) may be provided to avoid the second damper fixing part (522) and the third damper fixing part (523). Thus, shock caused by vibration transmitted from the damper can be prevented and accessibility during maintenance of the PCB can be improved.

[0456] The PCB mounting surface (53) can be formed to be located below the second damper fixing part (522) and the third damper fixing part (523). Therefore, not only is it easy to mount and fix the PCB module (9), but it is also easy to avoid the second damper (252) and the third damper (253), and problems such as increased length of the damper and increased volume of the clothing processing device (100) due to the height of the PCB module (9) can be resolved.

[0457] The PCB module (9) is slidably mounted on the PCB mounting surface (53), and the PCB mounting surface (53) may be provided with a guide rib (532) that guides the sliding path of the PCB module (9).

[0458] The second damper fixing part is provided in front of the PCB mounting surface (53), and the third damper fixing part (523) is provided behind the PCB mounting surface (53), and the PCB module (9) can be slid laterally and mounted on the PCB mounting surface (53). Accordingly, the PCB module (9) can be easily coupled to the base (5) without interfering with the second damper fixing part (522) and the third damper fixing part (523).

[0459] The guide rib (532) may be provided with a PCB hook (533) that is connected to the PCB mounted on the PCB mounting surface (53). Accordingly, the PCB module (9) that slides onto the PCB mounting surface (53) is automatically fixed to the base (5), thereby improving assembly.

[0460] The drive unit (32) may further include a motor (not shown) that rotates the drum (3) and an inverter PCB (324) that controls the operation of the motor.

[0461] The inverter PCB (324) controls the power of the motor to adjust the speed and direction to increase energy efficiency and can adjust the rotation speed of the drum (3) to match the washing and spin-drying stages that are preset or selected by the user.

[0462] The inverter PCB (324) is positioned between the compressor (73) of the base (5) and the PCB module (9) to avoid interference with each component and to optimize the arrangement of the components.

[0463] The above base (5) has an inverter PCB mounting portion (501) formed therein to guide the mounting position of the inverter PCB (324).

[0464] The inverter PCB (324) can be positioned so as to be offset towards the rear of the base (5) in the front-rear direction. Therefore, not only is interference with the compressor (73) and the PCB module (9) eliminated, but the distance between external connection ports and power supply connection points is reduced, simplifying wiring and improving accessibility during future maintenance.

[0465] It may include a water flow control valve disposed on the base (5) to control the supply or drainage of water to the tub (2).

[0466] The above-mentioned water flow control valve may be provided to receive an electrical control signal and physically control the inflow or drainage of water stored in the tub (2).

[0467] The above-mentioned water flow control valve is positioned between the compressor (73) of the base (5) and the PCB module (9) to avoid interference between the components and optimize the spatial arrangement.

[0468] The above-mentioned water flow control valve (49) can be positioned in front of the inverter PCB (324).

[0469] A water flow control valve mounting portion (503) on which the water flow control valve (49) is mounted may be provided in front of the inverter PCB mounting portion (501).

[0470] When the above-mentioned water flow control valve (49) is positioned on the central side of the base (5), the length of the piping connected to the tub (2) is reduced, thereby increasing the efficiency of control and making it easier to distribute pressure and water volume.

[0471] An example of the base (5) is illustrated in FIG. 36. The compressor (73) module may be provided on one side in the width direction of the base (5).

[0472] As described above, among the plurality of dampers, the first damper (251) fixed to one side in the width direction of the base (5) can be provided to avoid the compressor (73). Accordingly, performance degradation or damage caused by the transmission of vibration and shock between them can be prevented.

[0473] The compressor (73) may be positioned so as to be spaced apart from the first side panel (12) that forms the exterior and is positioned on one side of the cabinet (1).

[0474] In one embodiment of the present invention, the damper may be coupled to a damper fixing shaft (250) fixed to the base (5) to fix the tub (2) to the base (5). At this time, the damper fixing shaft (250) may be provided to extend between the compressor (73) and the first side panel (12).

[0475] That is, the distance between the first damper (251) and the first side panel (12) which is positioned on one side of the cabinet (1) and forms the exterior can be provided to be shorter than the distance between the compressor (73) and the first side panel (12).

[0476] In order to fix the tub (2) to one side of the base (5) while minimizing the number of dampers, the first damper (251) may be positioned at the center of one side of the base (5). Considering the general size of the compressor (73) and the base (5), if the damper fixing shaft (250) of the first damper (251) is provided to extend between the compressor (73) and the first side panel (12), interference between the damper and the compressor (73) may be easily avoided.

[0477] The compressor (73) may be positioned so as to be offset toward the rear side of the front and rear directions of the base (5), and the first damper (251) may be positioned further forward than the compressor (73).

[0478] Accordingly, the first damper (251) is fixed to the base (5) by a first fixed shaft of a first damper fixing part (521) coupled to the base (5), and the first fixed shaft may be provided to extend between the first side panel (12) and the compressor (73).

[0479] A hose groove (503) is provided between the compressor (73) and the first side panel (12) to secure the drainage hose, thereby minimizing interference between the drainage section (44) and the compressor (73).

[0480] The compressor (73) is positioned so as to be spaced apart from the first side panel (12) by a first distance, and

[0481] The above refrigerant pipe bracket (86) can be positioned so as to be spaced apart from the first side panel (12) by a second distance smaller than the first distance. Accordingly, when the refrigerant pipe (8) is connected to one side of the heat exchanger (70) and extends to one side of the compressor (73), interference between other components of the tub (2) or the base (5) is minimized, and the efficiency of space installation is increased.

[0482] Additionally, noise and vibration generated by the operation of the compressor (73) are reduced from being transmitted through the panel, and the refrigerant pipe bracket (86) can be selectively fixed to either the rear panel (14) or the first side panel (12). Furthermore, the compressor (73) is configured to generate heat during operation, so maintaining a certain distance from the first side panel (12) is advantageous for heat dissipation, and the refrigerant pipe (8) is positioned close to the first side panel (12) so that heat release is advantageous, thereby increasing cooling efficiency.

[0483] An example of the compressor module (CM) is illustrated in FIG. 37. The compressor module (CM) may be configured to include a compressor (73) that pressurizes and discharges an incoming refrigerant and a bracket configured to secure the compressor (73) to an object.

[0484] The compressor module (CM) may further include a circulation fan (77) that exhausts refrigerant leaked from the compressor (73) and the refrigerant pipe (8) connected to the compressor (73) and exhausts air heated by the compressor (73).

[0485] The compressor bracket (54) may include a support surface (55) having a compressor mounting portion on which the compressor (73) is mounted and a compressor fixing portion (551) to which a fixing member is coupled to prevent the compressor (73) from detaching from the mounting portion, a coupling surface (56) provided at the edge of the support surface (55) to fix the bracket to the object, and a fan fixing portion (59) fixed to the coupling surface (56) to fix a ventilation fan that exhausts the leaked refrigerant.

[0486] The specific structure of the compressor bracket (54) will be described below through FIG. 38.

[0487] The compressor bracket (54) may include a support surface (55) fixed to the base (5) and on which the compressor (73) is seated, and a coupling surface (56) extending from the edge of the support surface (55) and coupled to the cabinet (1).

[0488] The cabinet (1) comprises a first side panel (12) and a second side panel (13) arranged to face each other to form two sides, and a rear panel (14) formed by connecting the first side panel (12) and the second side panel (13) to form a rear side. The connecting surface (56) is provided in a plurality of such portions, some of which are connected to any one of the rear panel (14), the first side panel (12), and the second side panel (13), and the remainder of which may be connected to the base (5).

[0489] Therefore, since the compressor bracket (54) is fixed in an overlapping manner to the perimeter of the cabinet (1) and the base (5), the reliability of the fixation is improved, and the separation between the panels constituting the cabinet (1) can be prevented by the compressor bracket (54).

[0490] The above-mentioned coupling surface (56) may include a front coupling surface (57) that is coupled to the base (5) and is provided to extend upward from the front edge of the support surface (55), and a rear coupling surface (58) that is coupled to the rear panel (14) and is provided to extend upward from the rear edge of the support surface (55).

[0491] The above-mentioned front coupling surface (57) includes a first extension portion (571) extending upward from the front edge of the support surface (55) and a second extension portion (572) extending forward from the end of the first extension portion (571), and the second extension portion (572) can be fastened in the vertical direction to the base (5).

[0492] The rear connecting surface (58) includes a third extension (573) extending upward from the rear edge of the support surface (55), a fourth extension (574) extending backward from the end of the third extension (573), and a fifth extension (575) extending upward from the end of the fourth extension (574), and the fifth extension (575) can be fastened to the rear panel (14) in the front-rear direction.

[0493] The above front coupling surface (57) is fastened to the base (5) in an up-and-down direction, and the above rear coupling surface (58) is fastened to the rear panel (14) in a front-and-rear direction. Since the coupling surface (56) is fastened to vertically penetrate the base (5) and the rear panel (14), respectively, the reliability of the connection is improved, and since the fixing direction is different for each, the fixing force can be increased.

[0494] The above support surface (55) may include a mounting portion on which the compressor (73) is seated and a compressor fixing portion (551) to which a fixing member is combined to prevent the compressor (73) from detaching from the mounting portion. The fixing member is provided with a plurality of bolts that are pressed from the bottom to the top of the support surface (55) and can be fastened to the compressor (73) seated from the top to the bottom of the support surface (55).

[0495] The above-mentioned seating portion is provided with a through hole shape so that noise generation caused by collision between the bottom surface of the compressor (73) and the compressor bracket (54) can be minimized when the compressor (73) is driven.

[0496] The above fan fixing part (59) may be provided on the rear coupling surface (58). Accordingly, air exhausted through the ventilation fan may be easily discharged through the rear panel (14).

[0497] The ventilation fan (545) is seated at the end of the fourth extension (574), and the fifth extension (575) can be extended upward, excluding the area where the ventilation fan (545) is seated at the end of the fourth extension (574). Therefore, the fifth extension (575) does not block the airflow path exhausted by the ventilation fan (545), so the exhaust efficiency of the ventilation fan (545) can be increased.

[0498] FIG. 39 shows an example of the fan fixing part (59), and FIG. 41 shows the ventilation fan (545) fixed by the fan fixing part (59).

[0499] FIG. 39(a) is an embodiment of the fan fixing part (59), wherein the fan fixing part (59) includes a first fixing part (591) that fixes one side in the width direction of the ventilation fan (545) and a second fixing part (592) that fixes the other side in the width direction of the ventilation fan (545), and the first fixing part (591) and the second fixing part (592) are shown arranged to be spaced apart in the front-rear direction.

[0500] When the first fixing part (591) and the second fixing part (592) are spaced apart in the front-rear direction, vibrations generated by the operation of the ventilation fan (545) are easily dispersed and attenuated in the front-rear direction, and the stress applied to the fan fixing part (59) itself is dispersed, thereby improving durability. In addition, maintenance efficiency can be increased as work can be performed without completely separating the ventilation fan (545) when separating and reinstalling it.

[0501] Additionally, when fixing the ventilation fan (545) to the fan fixing part (59), a member such as a bolt that penetrates the fan fixing part (59) may be used. In this case, since it is fixed by the first fixing part (591) provided on one side in the width direction and the second fixing part (592) provided on the other side, interference with the compressor (73), which can be positioned in the center of the fan fixing part (59) in the width direction, can be minimized when fastened.

[0502] FIG. 39(b) illustrates another example of the fan fixing part (59), wherein the fan fixing part (59) includes a first fixing part (591) that fixes one side of the ventilation fan (545) in the width direction and a second fixing part (592) that fixes the other side of the ventilation fan (545) in the width direction, and wherein the first fixing part (591) and the second fixing part are provided on the same plane in the front-rear direction.

[0503] When the first fixing part (591) and the second fixing part (592) are provided on the same plane in the front-rear direction, the fifth extension part (575) may be provided with a flange extending toward the fan fixing part (59) to prevent the ventilation fan (545) from tipping over to the rear. However, a gap may occur between the ventilation fan (545) and the fifth extension part (575) due to the flange, so the aesthetics and structural strength may be inferior to the embodiment of FIG. 39(a).

[0504] FIG. 29 shows the ventilation fan (545) fixed to the compressor bracket (54) by the fan fixing part (59).

[0505] At least one of the first fixing part (591) and the second fixing part (592) may be provided to be spaced apart from a vertical plane in the front-rear direction passing through the center of the compressor (73). That is, at least one of the first fixing part (591) and the second fixing part (592) may be positioned offset to one side relative to a vertical plane that crosses the center of the seating part in the front-rear direction. Therefore, when the ventilation fan (545) is coupled with the fan fixing part (142) after the compressor (73) is fixed to the seating part, interference during the assembly of the ventilation fan (545) by the compressor (73) can be minimized.

[0506] The above fan fixing part (142) may be provided on the rear panel (14). Accordingly, air exhausted through the ventilation fan (545) may be easily discharged through the rear panel (14).

[0507] The ventilation fan (545) is seated at the end of the fourth extension (574), and the fifth extension (575) can be extended upward, excluding the area where the ventilation fan (545) is seated at the end of the fourth extension (574). Therefore, the fifth extension (575) does not block the airflow path exhausted by the ventilation fan (545), so the exhaust efficiency of the ventilation fan (545) can be increased.

[0508] FIG. 41 shows the compressor module (CM) installed inside the cabinet (1).

[0509] The above base (5) is provided with a compressor mounting part (51) on which the compressor (73) is mounted, and the compressor mounting part (51) may include a ventilation port (514) provided to ventilate by discharging the leaked refrigerant.

[0510] The above mounting portion includes a first surface (511) on which the support surface (55) is seated, a second surface (512) provided at the front-rear edge of the support surface (55) on which the coupling surface (56) is seated, and a third surface (513) extending upward from the edges of both sides of the support surface (55) to restrict the movement of the support surface (55), and the ventilation opening (514) may be provided to penetrate the third surface (513). Accordingly, safety accidents caused by leakage of the refrigerant can be effectively prevented without interference with the coupling surface (56) of the compressor bracket (54).

[0511] The compressor bracket (54) can be fixed to the base (5) so as to be spaced apart from the first side panel (12) that forms the exterior and is positioned on one side of the cabinet (1).

[0512] In one embodiment of the present invention, the damper may be coupled to a damper fixing shaft (250) fixed to the base (5) to fix the tub (2) to the base (5). At this time, the damper fixing shaft (250) may be provided to extend between the compressor bracket (54) and the first side panel (12).

[0513] A hose groove (503) is provided between the compressor bracket (54) and the first side panel (12) to secure the drain hose, thereby minimizing interference between the drain portion (44) and the compressor (73).

[0514] FIG. 42 shows the ventilation fan (545) at the rear of the cabinet (1).

[0515] The ventilation fan (545) may be provided to exhaust air by penetrating the rear panel (14). By connecting the rear surface of the ventilation fan (545) to the outside through the rear panel (14), air mixed with refrigerant leaked from the compressor (73) and air heated by the operation of the compressor (73) can be effectively discharged to the outside of the cabinet (1).

[0516] The rear coupling surface (58) is fixed to the rear panel (14) in the front-rear direction by a fixing member such as a bolt, and the ventilation fan (545) is fixed to the rear panel (14) by the fan fixing part (59) provided on the rear coupling surface (58), so that noise generation due to vibration of the ventilation fan (545) is reduced and fixing reliability can be increased.

[0517] FIG. 43 shows the exterior of the PCB module (9), and FIG. 44 shows an exploded view of the PCB module (9). The PCB module (9) is not limited to the present clothing processing device (100) and can be applied to other electronic devices.

[0518] The above PCB module (9) may include a first case (91) in which a first PCB (911) is accommodated inside and the front surface is provided as an open surface, and a second case (92) in which a second PCB (921) is accommodated inside and the front surface of the first case (91) is provided to shield the front surface of the first case (91).

[0519] Additionally, it may include a cooling fan (93) disposed on the side of the first case (91) to cool the first PCB (911), and a noise filter (94) fixed to the second case (92) to remove noise from an electrical signal transmitted to and received by at least one of the first PCB (911) and the second PCB (921).

[0520] The first PCB (911) controls the operation of the heat exchanger (70) and the compressor (73) to control drying performance, and the second PCB (921) may centrally control the execution of programs such as washing, drying, and rinsing according to a preset or user-entered setting, and may be provided in the opposite manner.

[0521] The second case (92) may include a receiving body (922) in which the second PCB (921) is received, a fixing body (923) provided in the receiving body (922) in which the noise filter (94) is fixed, and a base fixing part (926) provided to fix the PCB module (9) to the base (5).

[0522] The fixed body (923) is provided on the upper part of the receiving body (922), and the front of the first case (91) can be shielded by the fixed body (923) and the receiving body (922) arranged vertically. Therefore, the open front of the first case (91) can be shielded and protected from external interference without a separate cover.

[0523] The first case (91) and the second case (92) are secured to each other by hooks, making assembly and disassembly easy.

[0524] The second case (92) may further include a second case cover (924) fixed to the front of the receiving body (922).

[0525] The second case cover (924) is hook-fastened to the second case (92) so that they can be mutually fixed to facilitate assembly and disassembly.

[0526] The cooling fan (93) is provided on the side of the first case (91) to prevent excessive heat generation of the first PCB (911). A first ventilation hole (913) that penetrates to ventilate the air inside the first case (91) may be provided.

[0527] The first ventilation hole (913) of the first case (91) is positioned below the cooling fan (93) and can be efficient for discharging heated air.

[0528] The noise filter (94) can be integrally provided with the second case (92). Therefore, the design can be simplified without separate fixing devices or additional parts, and the distance between the noise filter (94) and the PCB is minimized to improve the noise removal effect and reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI), thereby maintaining the signal quality and performance of the entire equipment more stably.

[0529] The fixed body (923) and the cooling fan (93) are positioned on the upper part of the receiving body (922), and the first case (91) is provided with a first fan fixing part (912) that is provided to surround a part of the circumference of the cooling fan (93), and the fixed body (923) may be provided with a second fan fixing part (925) that is provided to surround the remaining part of the circumference of the cooling fan (93).

[0530] Therefore, since the cooling fan (93) is double-supported by the first case (91) and the second case (92), vibrations or shaking occurring during the operation of the cooling fan (93) can be minimized, thereby maintaining the reliability of the cooling performance. In addition, the configuration arrangement of the PCB module (9) can be optimized to increase space efficiency, and maintenance can be facilitated as the two fixing parts can be separated to access the cooling fan (93) when it is replaced or inspected.

[0531] The vertical height of the first case (91) may be provided to be longer than the vertical height of the second case (92).

[0532] The second case cover (924) may be provided with a second ventilation hole (9241) for ventilating the air inside the second case (92). Accordingly, the performance and stability of the device can be maintained by controlling the heat generated during the operation of the second PCB (921).

[0533] FIG. 45 illustrates the PCB module (9) as an example of the present invention. It will be described below.

[0534] The second case (92) includes a receiving body (922) in which the second PCB (921) is received and the front is open, and a fixing body (923) fixed to the upper part of the receiving body (922), and the front of the noise filter (94) and the front of the receiving body (922) may be provided on a plane parallel to each other in the front-rear direction.

[0535] When the front surface of the noise filter (94) and the front surface of the receiving body (922) are provided on a plane parallel to each other in the front-rear direction, the noise filter (94) and the second PCB (921) housed in the receiving body (922) can be simultaneously protected by a protective coating. This allows the coating for preventing electromagnetic interference and protecting components to be processed in a single process, thereby improving manufacturing efficiency and maintaining consistency in the coating process. Additionally, the noise filter (94) and the second PCB (921) are protected from the external environment by the coating, preventing corrosion or performance degradation caused by moisture or dust, which can improve the durability and reliability of the device.

[0536] Depending on the width of the noise filter (94), the noise filter (94) seated on the upper part of the receiving body (922) may be spaced apart from the fixed body (923) so as to be provided in the same plane as the second PCB (921).

[0537] FIG. 46 shows the PCB module (9) mounted on the base (5), and FIG. 47 shows a cross-sectional view along A-A' of FIG. 46.

[0538] The drum (3) may be rotatably provided inside the cabinet (1) and may be provided to include a drum body (30) that is hollow inside and accommodates clothing.

[0539] The PCB module (9) may be positioned offset to one side relative to the vertical plane passing through the rotation axis (323) of the drum (3). Thus, it may be easy to avoid interference with the bottom of the drum (3) or the tub (2) housing the drum (3).

[0540] The vertical height of the first case (91) may be provided to be longer than the vertical height of the second case (92). The rear surface of the first case (91), which faces the front surface, may be positioned inside the cabinet (1) such that it is located in the one-sided direction.

[0541] Since the drum (3) slopes upward from the bottom toward the side, if the first case (91), which has a relatively higher height, is positioned toward the side rather than the second case (92), interference between the drum (3) or the tub (2) and the PCB module (9) can be minimized.

[0542] The PCB module (9) may be configured to avoid the second damper fixing part (522) and the third damper fixing part (523). Thus, shock caused by vibration transmitted from the damper can be prevented, and accessibility during maintenance of the PCB module (9) can be improved.

[0543] The PCB module (9) is slidably mounted on the PCB mounting surface (53), and the PCB mounting surface (53) may be provided with a guide rib (532) that guides the sliding path of the PCB module (9).

[0544] The second damper fixing part (522) is provided at the front of the PCB module (9), and the third damper fixing part (523) is provided at the rear of the PCB module (9), and the PCB module (9) can be slid laterally and seated on the PCB mounting surface (53). Accordingly, the PCB module (9) can be easily coupled to the base (5) without interfering with the second damper fixing part and the third damper fixing part (523).

[0545] The PCB mounting surface (53) may include a first mounting surface (531) on which the first case (91) is mounted and a second mounting surface (534) positioned below the first mounting surface (531) on which the second case (92) is mounted.

[0546] The degree of protrusion of the second case (92), which is positioned relatively close to the bottom of the tub (2) or drum (3) positioned above the base (5), can be mitigated so that interference between the PCB module (9) and the tub (2) or drum (3) can be minimized.

[0547] Additionally, the PCB module (9) may be easily mounted on the base (5) by sliding from the second mounting surface (534) toward the first mounting surface (531).

[0548] When the PCB module (9) is positioned so as to be offset toward the other side in the width direction of the base (5), the other end in the width direction of the base (5) may be extended upward to provide a PCB support surface (536) that supports the PCB module (9).

[0549] The PCB support surface (536) is provided with a support flange (5361) that extends from the PCB support surface (536) toward the first case (91), and the first case (91) may be provided with a support rib (914) that interferes with the support flange (5361) and restricts the vertical movement of the PCB module (9).

[0550] The above PCB module (9) may be restricted from moving in the width direction by the PCB support surface (536) and is positioned at the other end of the base (5), so it is provided adjacent to the second side panel (13) which is positioned in the other direction of the cabinet (1) to form the exterior, thereby improving accessibility during maintenance.

[0551] The cooling fan (93) can be positioned above the damper coupling portions (521, 522, 523). Thus, the cooling fan (93) can be easily operated while being isolated from the vibration of the tub (2), and since the cooling fan (93) is positioned higher than the indented portion of the PCB mounting surface (53), air can be discharged smoothly.

[0552] 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 tub provided inside the cabinet for storing water; A drum rotatably provided inside the above tub to accommodate clothing; A driving unit that rotates the above drum; A first side panel forming one side of the above cabinet; A second side panel positioned to face the first side panel and forming the other side of the cabinet; A duct section for resupplying air discharged from the drum to the drum; A heat exchanger comprising an evaporator provided inside the duct section for dehumidifying air discharged from the drum and a condenser for heating air that has passed through the evaporator; A compressor for compressing the refrigerant that undergoes heat exchange with the above heat exchanger; and A refrigerant pipe forming a circulation path for a refrigerant that exchanges heat with the air of the above-mentioned duct section; comprising The compressor and the heat exchanger are positioned so as to be offset from the first side panel, and A clothing processing device characterized by the above refrigerant pipe being configured to be drawn out from the heat exchanger toward the first side panel.

2. In Paragraph 1, A clothing processing device characterized by the above-mentioned duct section being positioned on the upper part of the above-mentioned tub.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above compressor is provided on a base forming the bottom surface of the cabinet, and A clothing processing device characterized by the above refrigerant pipe extending in the vertical direction of the cabinet to connect the heat exchanger and the compressor.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above compressor is provided at the rear of the base, and A clothing processing device characterized in that a portion of the above-mentioned refrigerant pipe is provided at the rear of the cabinet and extends vertically.

5. In Paragraph 4, A clothing processing device characterized by the above-mentioned refrigerant pipe being fixed to the end of the first side panel of the rear panel that forms the exterior and is positioned at the rear of the cabinet.

6. In Paragraph 5, A clothing processing device characterized by including a refrigerant pipe bracket that secures at least a portion of the refrigerant pipe to the rear panel.

7. In Paragraph 1, A clothing processing device characterized by the above-mentioned refrigerant pipe being provided to be spaced apart from the rear surface of the above-mentioned tub.

8. In Paragraph 3, The above refrigerant pipe includes a first refrigerant pipe that delivers the refrigerant from the evaporator to the compressor, a second refrigerant pipe that delivers the refrigerant compressed from the compressor to the condenser, and a third refrigerant pipe that delivers the refrigerant from the condenser to the evaporator. The first refrigerant pipe is connected to the direction of the first side panel of the evaporator and extends along the lower side of the cabinet to be connected to the compressor, and A clothing processing device characterized by the second refrigerant pipe being connected to the direction of the first side panel of the condenser, extending along the lower side of the cabinet, and connecting to the compressor.

9. In Paragraph 8, The third refrigerant pipe includes an expansion valve that lowers the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant guided from the condenser to the evaporator, and A clothing processing device characterized in that the above expansion valve is positioned in the direction of the first side panel of the above duct section.

10. In Paragraph 8, The third refrigerant pipe further includes a dryer that removes moisture and impurities from the refrigerant discharged from the condenser, and A clothing processing device characterized in that the above dryer is positioned in the direction of the first side panel of the above duct section.

11. In Paragraph 8, A clothing processing device characterized in that the above evaporator and the above condenser are arranged in the front-rear direction inside the duct section.

12. In Paragraph 8, The above duct section extends in the front-rear direction of the cabinet, and is provided with a circulation fan mounting section at the rear that accommodates a circulation fan for circulating air in the duct section. The first refrigerant pipe is connected to the evaporator and includes a first rear extension that extends rearward past the circulation fan mounting portion, and The third refrigerant pipe is connected to the condenser and includes a second rear extension that extends rearward past the circulation fan mounting portion, and A clothing processing device characterized in that the first rear extension part and the second rear extension part are provided to be spaced apart from the circulation fan mounting part.

13. In Paragraph 12, A clothing processing device characterized in that the rotation axis of the above-mentioned circulation fan extends in the vertical direction of the above-mentioned cabinet.

14. In Paragraph 12, The first refrigerant pipe is connected to the first rear extension and includes a first upper / lower extension that extends along the lower side of the cabinet. The second refrigerant pipe is connected to the second rear extension and includes a second upper / lower extension that extends along the lower side of the cabinet. A first bend portion is formed between the first rear extension portion and the first upper / lower extension portion, in which the first refrigerant pipe is bent, and A clothing processing device characterized by having a second bend formed between the second rear extension and the second upper / lower extension, in which the second refrigerant pipe is bent.

15. In Paragraph 14, The above first bend or the above second bend is, A clothing processing device characterized by being provided in multiple units to disperse the bending angle between the first rear extension part and the first upper / lower extension part or the bending angle between the second rear extension part and the second upper / lower extension part.

16. In Paragraph 13, A clothing processing device characterized by including a refrigerant pipe bracket that fixes at least one of the first upper / lower extension part or the second upper / lower extension part to the cabinet.

Images