Clothing processing device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a clothing processing device. The clothing processing device comprises: a first cabinet; a first drum; a second cabinet disposed below the first cabinet; a tub; a second drum; a heating unit; a first intake duct; a second intake duct; a first flow path switching valve for opening or closing the first intake duct or the second intake duct; a first exhaust duct; a second exhaust duct; a second flow path switching valve for opening or closing the first exhaust duct or the second exhaust duct; and a blowing device, wherein one of the first flow path switching valve and the second flow path switching valve is opened or closed by the flow force of the blowing device, and the other thereof is opened or closed by receiving the driving force provided from a valve motor.

Description

Clothing processing device

[0001] The present invention relates to a clothing processing device, and more specifically, to an integrated clothing processing device in which a washing machine that simultaneously implements washing and drying functions and a dryer that performs drying functions are stacked.

[0002] Generally, a clothing processing device is a device for handling various tasks related to clothing, encompassing a washing machine for washing clothes, a drying machine for drying wet clothes, and a refresher for removing odors or wrinkles embedded in clothing.

[0003] A conventional laundry device includes a cabinet forming an exterior, a tub provided inside the cabinet for storing water, a drum rotatably provided inside the tub for storing laundry, and a drive unit for rotating the drum.

[0004] In particular, washing machines are classified into top-loading and front-loading types depending on the orientation of the drum. Unlike top-loading machines, front-loading machines are equipped with a horizontal drum, and accordingly, laundry is fed into the drum through the front of the machine. Washing machines of this front-loading type are widely used because they have a smaller size compared to top-loading machines, a larger washing capacity, high washing performance, and do not cause laundry to tangle.

[0005] In addition to these washing machines, front-loading drying machines have been developed and are widely used. In homes and dry cleaners, washing machines and dryers are mostly used together; in dry cleaners in particular, multiple washing and drying machines are used together, and washing or drying machines can be combined in pairs. In this case, to reduce the installation area, the dryer can be stacked on top of the washing machine.

[0006] Korean Patent Publication KR10-2021-0113857A discloses a clothing processing device having a drying device on the upper part and a washing device on the lower part.

[0007] Clothing processing devices capable of drying clothes supply high-temperature air (hot air) to the clothes and can be classified into circulating (condensing) and exhaust type clothing processing devices based on the air flow method.

[0008] The circulating (condensing) clothing processing device is structured to circulate air in a drum where clothing is stored, remove moisture (dehumidify) from the air discharged from the drum, heat it, and then recirculate it to the drum.

[0009] An exhaust-type clothing processing device supplies heated air to a drum, but discharges the air expelled from the drum to the outside of the device without circulating it.

[0010] At this time, the clothing processing device of the prior art document is a circulating (condensing) clothing processing device that discharges air heated through a heat exchanger into the interior of the drum through a duct positioned at the rear of the drum, and circulates the air inside the drum used for drying to the heat exchanger through a duct positioned at the front of the drum, and the water passing through the water supply valve can be supplied to either the first clothing processing device or the second clothing processing device through the first switching valve.

[0011] However, the aforementioned prior art documents have a problem in that they do not disclose a method of driving a valve that opens and closes the air passage flowing inside a clothing processing device.

[0012] The present invention was created to improve upon the problems of conventional clothing processing devices as described above, and aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device equipped with a flow path switching valve capable of automatically opening and closing a duct by the airflow force within a drum.

[0013] In addition, the present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device that prevents air leakage into the second clothing processing device by operating the first blower device provided in the upper first clothing processing device and not operating the second blower device provided in the lower second clothing processing device, thereby generating positive pressure in the first exhaust duct and generating negative pressure in the first intake duct when two blower devices are provided.

[0014] In addition, the present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device that prevents air from leaking into a second clothing processing device by closing a second intake duct or a second exhaust duct when one of two flow switching valves is provided with driving force from a valve motor when one of the blowers is equipped with one blower.

[0015] To solve the problem described above, the clothing processing device according to the present invention comprises: a first cabinet forming an exterior; a first drum rotatably provided inside the first cabinet to accommodate clothing; a second cabinet positioned below the first cabinet; a tub located inside the second cabinet; a second drum rotatably provided inside the tub to accommodate clothing; a heating unit for heating air; a first intake duct for guiding air passing through the heating unit to the first drum; a second intake duct for guiding air passing through the heating unit to the tub; a first flow path switching valve communicating with the first intake duct, the second intake duct, and the heating unit, and opening or closing the first intake duct or the second intake duct; a first exhaust duct for guiding air discharged from the first drum to the heating unit; and a second exhaust duct for guiding air discharged from the tub to the heating unit. A second flow path switching valve communicating with the first exhaust duct, the second exhaust duct, and the heating unit, and opening or closing the first exhaust duct or the second exhaust duct; a first blower providing a flow force for flowing air within the first drum; and a second blower providing a flow force for flowing air within the tub; wherein at least one of the first flow path switching valve and the second flow path switching valve can be opened or closed by the flow force of the first blower.

[0016] Either one of the first Euro switching valve and the second Euro switching valve is opened and closed by the flow force of the first blower, and the other can be opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor.

[0017] The first blower device can be placed on the first intake duct.

[0018] The second blower device can be placed on the second intake duct.

[0019] The first blower device can be placed on the first exhaust duct.

[0020] The second blower device may be placed on the second exhaust duct.

[0021] To solve the problem described above, the clothing processing device according to the present invention comprises: a first cabinet forming an exterior; a first drum rotatably provided inside the first cabinet to accommodate clothing; a second cabinet positioned below the first cabinet; a tub located inside the second cabinet; a second drum rotatably provided inside the tub to accommodate clothing; a heating unit for heating air; a first intake duct for guiding air passing through the heating unit to the first drum; a second intake duct for guiding air passing through the heating unit to the tub; a first flow path switching valve communicating with the first intake duct and the second intake duct and opening or closing the first intake duct or the second intake duct; a first exhaust duct through which air from the first drum is discharged; a second exhaust duct through which air from the tub is discharged; and a second flow path switching valve communicating with the first exhaust duct and the second exhaust duct and opening or closing the first exhaust duct or the second exhaust duct. A first blower providing a flow force for flowing air within the first drum; a second blower providing a flow force for flowing air within the tub; and an exhaust unit for discharging air that has passed through the second flow path switching valve to the outside; wherein at least one of the first flow path switching valve and the second flow path switching valve can be opened or closed by the flow force of the first blower.

[0022] The first flow switching valve is opened and closed by the flow force of the first blower, and the second flow switching valve can be opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor.

[0023] The first blower device can be placed on the first intake duct.

[0024] The second blower device can be placed on the second intake duct.

[0025] The first blower device can be placed on the first exhaust duct.

[0026] The second blower device may be placed on the second exhaust duct.

[0027] To solve the problem described above, the clothing processing device according to the present invention comprises: a first cabinet forming an exterior; a first drum rotatably provided inside the first cabinet to accommodate clothing; a second cabinet positioned below the first cabinet; a tub located inside the second cabinet; a second drum rotatably provided inside the tub to accommodate clothing; a heating unit for heating air; a first intake duct for guiding air passing through the heating unit to the first drum; a second intake duct for guiding air passing through the heating unit to the tub; a first flow path switching valve communicating with the first intake duct and the second intake duct and opening or closing the first intake duct or the second intake duct; a first exhaust duct for guiding air discharged from the first drum to the heating unit; a second exhaust duct for guiding air discharged from the tub to the heating unit; and a second flow path switching valve communicating with the first exhaust duct and the second exhaust duct and opening or closing the first exhaust duct or the second exhaust duct. and a blower providing a flow force to flow air within the first drum; wherein either of the first flow path switching valve and the second flow path switching valve is opened and closed by the flow force of the blower, and the other can be opened and closed by receiving a driving force from a valve motor.

[0028] When the first Euro switching valve receives driving force from the valve motor, the first Euro switching valve can close the second intake duct.

[0029] When the second Euro switching valve receives driving force from the valve motor, the second Euro switching valve can close the second exhaust duct.

[0030] The above blower device may be positioned between the heating unit and the first flow path switching valve.

[0031] The above blower device may be positioned between the heating unit and the second flow path switching valve.

[0032] To solve the problem described above, the clothing processing device according to the present invention comprises: a first cabinet forming an exterior; a first drum rotatably provided inside the first cabinet to accommodate clothing; a second cabinet positioned below the first cabinet; a tub located inside the second cabinet; a second drum rotatably provided inside the tub to accommodate clothing; a heating unit for heating air; a first intake duct guiding air passing through the heating unit to the first drum; a second intake duct guiding air passing through the heating unit to the tub; a first flow path switching valve communicating with the first intake duct and the second intake duct and opening or closing the first intake duct or the second intake duct; a first exhaust duct through which air from the first drum is discharged; a second exhaust duct through which air from the tub is discharged; and a second flow path switching valve communicating with the first exhaust duct and the second exhaust duct and opening or closing the first exhaust duct or the second exhaust duct. It includes a blower that provides a flow force for flowing air within the first drum; and an exhaust unit that discharges air passing through the second flow path switching valve to the outside, wherein either of the first flow path switching valve and the second flow path switching valve is opened and closed by the flow force of the blower; and the other can be opened and closed by receiving a driving force from a valve motor.

[0033] When the first Euro switching valve receives driving force from the valve motor, the first Euro switching valve can close the second intake duct.

[0034] When the second Euro switching valve receives driving force from the valve motor, the second Euro switching valve can close the second exhaust duct.

[0035] The above blower device may be positioned between the heating unit and the first flow path switching valve.

[0036] The above blower device can be positioned between the second Euro switching valve and the heating unit.

[0037] The clothing processing device according to the present invention, as described above, has the effect of automatically opening and closing the duct by the airflow force within the drum by being equipped with a flow path switching valve.

[0038] In addition, when two blowers are provided, the present invention has the effect of preventing air leakage into the second clothing processing device by operating the first blower provided in the upper first clothing processing device and not operating the second blower provided in the lower second clothing processing device, thereby generating positive pressure in the first exhaust duct and generating negative pressure in the first intake duct.

[0039] In addition, when one blower is provided, the present invention has the effect of preventing air from leaking into the second clothing processing device by having one of the two flow switching valves receive driving force from a valve motor to close the second intake duct or the second exhaust duct.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a perspective view for explaining a clothing processing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining the internal structure of a clothing processing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 3 is a partial enlarged view for explaining the duct section of a clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an intake duct connection portion of a clothing processing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating the connection between an exhaust duct and a flow path switching unit in a clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a perspective view for explaining the structure of a flow path switching section in a clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIGS. 7a and 7b are drawings illustrating the flow of air according to the rotation of a flow path switching valve in a clothing processing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement relationship of the duct section in a clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement relationship of duct sections in a clothing processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIGS. 11 and FIGS. 12 are drawings for illustrating the airflow in a clothing processing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIGS. 13 and 14 are conceptual diagrams of a clothing processing device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIGS. 15 to 17 are conceptual diagrams of a clothing processing device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIGS. 18 and 19 are conceptual diagrams of a clothing processing device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIGS. 20 to 23 are conceptual diagrams of a clothing processing device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0056] The present invention is capable of various modifications and may have various embodiments, and specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. This is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, and should be interpreted to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0057] The terms used in this application are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. Singular expressions may include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0058] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and may not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this application.

[0059] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view for explaining a clothing processing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 shows a drawing for explaining the internal structure of a clothing processing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2, a clothing processing device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a first clothing processing device (100) and a second clothing processing device (200).

[0061] In the clothing processing device (1) of the present invention, a first clothing processing device (100) may be located at the top, and a second clothing processing device (200) may be located at the bottom.

[0062] For example, the first clothing processing device (100) may be a drying device, and the second clothing processing device (200) may be a washing and drying device having a drying function. This is based solely on weight considerations, and otherwise, the upper and lower parts may be reversed.

[0063] The second garment processing device (200) having a drying function is intended to provide convenience in cases where the amount of laundry to be dried is small or there is no need to dry it completely, such as when the laundry to be dried is withdrawn from the second garment processing device (200) and can be dried immediately without the hassle of moving it to the first garment processing device (100).

[0064] To this end, the present invention may be configured to integrate heat exchangers into one so that they can be shared with one another.

[0065] The first clothing processing device (100) located at the top of the clothing processing device (1) includes a cabinet (110), a first drum (130), a first driving unit (140), a first support unit (170), and a second support unit (190).

[0066] The first cabinet (110) can form the exterior of the first clothing processing device (100).

[0067] The first cabinet (110) may be provided to include a first front panel (114) forming the front surface of the first clothing processing device (100), a first rear panel (115) forming the rear surface of the first clothing processing device (100), a first lower panel (not shown) forming the lower surface of the first clothing processing device (100), and a first upper panel (118) forming the upper surface of the first clothing processing device (100).

[0068] At this time, the first front panel (114) may be provided with a first input port configured to communicate with the first drum (130). The first input port may be configured to be opened and closed by a first door (113) rotatably coupled to the first cabinet (110).

[0069] The first drum (130) can be rotatably provided inside the first cabinet (110) to provide a space for storing clothing.

[0070] For example, the first drum (130) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with the front and rear surfaces open.

[0071] The first drum (130) may include a first drum body (131), a first roller, and a second roller.

[0072] The first drum body (131) may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The first drum body (131) may be rotated by receiving rotational force from various types of first driving parts (140).

[0073] Although not illustrated, the first roller can rotatably support the circumferential surface of the first drum body (131) on the first support member (170). Additionally, the second roller can rotatably support the circumferential surface of the first drum body (131) on the second support member (190).

[0074] With this configuration, the first drum (130) is supported by the first support member (170) and the second support member (180) through the first roller and the second roller, and can be rotated by receiving power from the first drive member (140).

[0075] Meanwhile, the first drive unit (140) can provide rotational force to the first drum (130). For example, the first drive unit (140) may include a first motor (141) fixed inside the first cabinet (110), a pulley (not shown) rotated by the first motor (141), and a belt (not shown) connecting the circumferential surface of the pulley and the circumferential surface of the first drum body (131).

[0076] Through this, when the first drive unit (140) is operated, the pulley (not shown) is rotated by the driving force of the first motor (141), and the rotation of the pulley (not shown) is transmitted to the first drum body (131) through the belt (not shown), so that the first drum (130) can be rotated.

[0077] When the first drum (130) is provided in a cylindrical shape with the front and rear surfaces each open, the first cabinet (110) may be provided with a first support member (170) that rotatably supports the front surface of the first drum (130) and a second support member (190) that rotatably supports the rear surface of the first drum (130).

[0078] Although not illustrated, the first support member (170) may be provided to include a first fixed body fixed inside the first cabinet (110), a first drum inlet provided to penetrate the first fixed body and communicate with the first inlet and the inside of the first drum body (131), and a first support body provided on the first fixed body and inserted into the front surface (first open surface) of the first drum body (131).

[0079] The first fixed body may be provided in any shape as long as the first drum inlet and the first support body can be provided. The first support body may be provided in a pipe shape protruding from the first fixed body toward the first drum body (131). The diameter of the first support body may be set to be larger than the diameter of the first drum inlet and smaller than the diameter of the front surface of the first drum body (131). In this case, the first drum inlet will be located inside the space formed by the first support body.

[0080] Although not illustrated, the first support member (170) may be provided to further include a connecting body connecting the first inlet and the first drum inlet. The connecting body may be provided in the shape of a pipe extending from the first drum inlet toward the first inlet. The connecting body may be provided with a first air outlet communicating with the duct member (400).

[0081] The first air outlet is a passage that allows air inside the first drum body (131) to move to the first exhaust duct (460), and may be provided as a through hole that penetrates the connecting body.

[0082] Although not illustrated, the second support member (190) may be provided to include a second fixed body (not illustrated) fixed inside the first cabinet (110), and a second support body (not illustrated) provided on the second fixed body (not illustrated) and inserted into the rear surface (second open surface) of the first drum body (131). The second support member (190) is provided with a first air inlet (not illustrated) that penetrates the second fixed body (not illustrated) and communicates the interior of the first drum body (131) with the interior of the first cabinet (110).

[0083] Meanwhile, the second clothing processing device (200) may be located below the first clothing processing device (100).

[0084] The second clothing processing device (200) includes a second cabinet (210), a tub (220), a second drum (230), a second drive unit (240), a water supply unit (250), a drainage unit (260), and a detergent storage unit (270).

[0085] The second cabinet (210) forms the exterior of the second clothing processing device (200).

[0086] The second cabinet (210) may be provided to include a second front panel (214) forming the front surface of the second clothing processing device (200), a second rear panel (215) forming the rear surface of the second clothing processing device (200), a second lower panel (216) forming the lower surface of the second clothing processing device (200), and a first upper panel (not shown) forming the upper surface of the second clothing processing device (100).

[0087] At this time, the second front panel (214) is provided with a second input port (211) for the entry and exit of laundry, and the second input port (211) is opened and closed by a second door (213) rotatably provided in the second cabinet (210).

[0088] The tub (220) is provided inside the second cabinet (210) and can store washing water and perform a drying function.

[0089] The tub (220) includes a tub inlet (not shown) that communicates with the second inlet (211).

[0090] A gasket is provided between the tub inlet (not shown) and the second inlet (211). The gasket prevents the washing water inside the tub (220) from being discharged to the outside and prevents vibrations of the tub (220) from being transmitted to the second cabinet (210).

[0091] Meanwhile, the tub (220) can be fixed inside the second cabinet (210) by the tub support (219). At this time, the tub support (219) may be equipped with a spring or damper capable of absorbing vibrations of the tub (220).

[0092] The tub (220) may include a second air inlet (not shown) for connecting to a second intake duct (450) and a second air outlet (not shown) for connecting to a second exhaust duct (470).

[0093] The second drum (230) is rotatably provided inside the tub (220) so that clothing can be stored.

[0094] Although not shown, the tub (220) receives water through a water supply unit (250), and the water supply unit (250) may be equipped with a first water supply pipe (not shown) connecting a water source (not shown) and the tub (220), and a water supply valve (251) that opens and closes the first water supply pipe (not shown).

[0095] The first water supply pipe (not shown) and the water supply valve (251) are connected to the second cabinet (210), and can then be connected to the first clothing processing device (100) through the second water supply pipe (not shown).

[0096] Meanwhile, a detergent storage section (270) in which detergent is stored may be further provided at the upper part of the tub (220). The detergent storage section (270) may include a detergent storage body (not shown) in which detergent is stored and a tub supply pipe (not shown) connecting the detergent storage body (not shown) to the tub (220).

[0097] In this case, a first water supply pipe (not shown) may be provided to connect a water source (not shown) and a detergent storage body (not shown). Accordingly, when water is supplied through the first water supply pipe (not shown), the detergent stored in the detergent storage body (not shown) can be supplied to the tub (220).

[0098] Additionally, the water supply unit (250) can supply water passing through the water supply valve (251) to the detergent storage unit (270) via the first water supply pipe (not shown) by means of the first switching valve (not shown), and can supply water to the condensate storage unit (not shown) located at the bottom of the first clothing processing device (100) via the second water supply pipe (not shown). This is to clean the filter unit (300) by directly storing the water supplied for the second clothing processing device (200) in the condensate storage unit (not shown) and spraying it onto the filter unit (300).

[0099] Alternatively, a Y-shaped branch pipe (not shown) can be used from an external water source to branch the water supplied directly to the first clothing processing device (100) and the second clothing processing device (200) and connect them respectively.

[0100] Meanwhile, water stored inside the tub (220) is discharged to the outside of the second cabinet (210) through the drainage section (260). The drainage section (260) may be equipped with a drain pipe that guides the water inside the tub (220) to the outside of the second cabinet (210) and a drainage pump (266) connected to the drain pipe.

[0101] The second drum (230) may be rotatably provided inside the tub (220). Although not illustrated, the second drum (230) includes a second drum inlet and a second drum through hole.

[0102] The second drum inlet may be formed to communicate with the tub inlet (not shown). With this configuration, the user can insert clothing (or laundry) into the second drum (230) or withdraw it from the second drum (230) through the second inlet, the tub inlet, and the second drum inlet.

[0103] A plurality of second drum through-holes may be formed on the outer surface of the second drum (230) and may be formed to communicate the interior of the second drum (230) with the tub (220). Accordingly, water stored inside the tub (220) can be supplied to the laundry stored in the second drum (230) through the second drum through-holes, and water contained in the laundry can be discharged to the tub (220) through the second drum through-holes.

[0104] The second drive unit (240) can apply torque to the second drum (230) to rotate the second drum (230).

[0105] The second drive unit (240) is provided on the outside of the tub (220) and can generate a driving force to rotate the second drum (230). The second drive unit (240) includes a second motor (241), and the second motor (241) includes a rotor, a stator, and a rotating shaft.

[0106] The rotor can be rotated by electromagnetic action with the stator, and the stator can be fixed to the back of the tub (220).

[0107] The stator receives electric power from the power supply to form a rotating magnetic field, and the rotor rotates due to the rotating magnetic field provided by the stator.

[0108] The rotation shaft can connect the rotor and the back surface of the second drum (230). With this configuration, the rotation shaft of the second motor (241) can be directly connected to the back surface of the second drum (230). At this time, it is preferable that the rotation shaft be configured to pass through the back surface of the tub (220) to connect the second drum (230) and the rotor, and in this case, a bearing that rotatably supports the rotation shaft may be further provided on the back surface of the tub (220).

[0109] Since the rotation of the rotor is transmitted to the second drum (230) through the rotation axis, power can be supplied to the stator to provide the torque required for the rotation of the second drum (230).

[0110] The water supply unit (250) includes a first water supply pipe (not shown) connected to an external water source and a water supply valve (251) for opening and closing the first water supply pipe (not shown). The first water supply pipe (not shown) and the water supply valve (251) are necessary for the washing function of the second clothing processing device (200). Water passing through the water supply valve (251) can be supplied to the second clothing processing device (200) through the first switching valve.

[0111] The first switching valve is a valve capable of switching the direction of water supply to either a tub (220) or a condensate storage unit (not shown). The control unit (900) can supply water to either the second clothing processing unit (200) or the first clothing processing unit (100) through the first switching valve. However, alternatively, water may be supplied to the second clothing processing unit (200) when water is needed, while water is being supplied to the first clothing processing unit (100).

[0112] The drainage section (260) may include a drain valve (261) that is opened and closed by a control section (900) to drain water from the second clothing processing device (200), a drain valve connecting pipe (not shown) that connects the drain valve (261) and a drain hole formed in a condensate storage section (not shown), a first drain pipe (not shown) that discharges water from the tub (220) to a drain pump (266), a second drain pipe (not shown) that drains water discharged by the drain pump (266) to the outside, and a third drain pipe (not shown) that connects the drain valve (261) and the drain pump (266).

[0113] Here, the drainage pump (266) may be configured to include not only a pump used to transport water, but also a drainage pump housing (not shown) that provides a space for storing water, a drainage pump impeller (not shown) that can be rotated inside the drainage pump housing, a drainage pump motor (not shown) that rotates the drainage pump impeller, and a drainage pump outlet (not shown) that is configured to penetrate the circumferential surface of the drainage pump housing and to which the second drain pipe is connected.

[0114] A detergent storage section (270) in which detergent is stored may be further provided at the upper part of the tub (220), and the detergent storage section (270) may be provided with a detergent storage body in which detergent is stored and a tub supply pipe that communicates the detergent storage body with the tub.

[0115] Meanwhile, the first cabinet (110) and the second cabinet (210) of the present invention may be formed integrally. That is, the first cabinet (110) and the second cabinet (210) may be formed integrally without the lower panel of the first cabinet (110) and the upper panel of the second cabinet (210), and then separated by a partition base (not shown) between the first drum (130) and the tub (220).

[0116] In addition, the above-mentioned partition base (not shown) is located at the bottom of the first drum (130) and can support various parts. That is, the partition base (not shown) serves as a lower panel of the first cabinet (110) and simultaneously acts as a base to which various parts are joined and supported.

[0117] Additionally, a control panel (910) may be placed between the first door (113) and the second door (213). However, alternatively, the control panel (910) may be provided on the front panel (114, 214) of the first cabinet (110) or the second cabinet (210), respectively.

[0118] The control panel (910) may include an input section (not shown) and a display section (not shown). The input section may be configured to include a power supply request section for requesting power supply to the clothing processing device (100), a course input section for enabling the user to select a desired course among a plurality of courses, and an execution request section for requesting the start of the course selected by the user. The display section may be configured to include at least one of a display panel capable of outputting text and graphics, and a speaker capable of outputting voice signals and sound.

[0119] Additionally, a filter section (300) may be provided in a part of the control panel (910). For aesthetic purposes, a through hole (not shown) into which a filter can be inserted may be provided when the control panel (910) is rotated so that its back side is exposed. Alternatively, a filter door (314) may be provided on the first front panel (114) or the second front panel (214), and a filter insertion hole (313) into which a filter (not shown) can be inserted when the filter door (314) is opened may be provided.

[0120] The filter section (300) can filter out foreign substances from the air flowing inside the clothing processing device (1).

[0121] The filter section (300) includes a first filter section (310) and a second filter section.

[0122] The first filter unit (310) is positioned on the first exhaust duct (460) to filter air flowing from the first drum (130) into the first exhaust duct (460). Specifically, the first filter unit (310) may be positioned between the first front panel (114) and the first drum (130). Through this, the user can open the first door (113) or detach the filter provided in the first filter unit (310) from the first front panel (114), thereby providing convenience for washing or replacing the filter.

[0123] Meanwhile, the filter provided in the first filtration section (310) can be installed along the direction of air flow passing through the first exhaust duct (460). At this time, the first exhaust duct (460) can be positioned below the inlet of the first drum (130) and in front of the flow path switching section (480).

[0124] For example, the filter provided in the first filtration unit (310) can be moved upward and detached, and moved downward and mounted. Through this, the user can detach the filter with a simple motion of lifting the filter by reaching their hand toward the inlet of the first drum (130), and mount the filter with a simple motion of pushing the filter downward.

[0125] As another example, the filter provided in the first filtration unit (310) can be moved forward and detached, and moved backward and mounted. Through this, the user has the advantage of being able to detach the filter with a simple action of pulling the filter from the input port of the first drum (130) or the first front panel (114), and to mount the filter with a simple action of pushing the filter backward.

[0126] In addition, there is an advantage that the user can easily remove the lint attached to the filter after separating the filter.

[0127] The second filter can filter foreign substances from the air discharged from the tub (220) that performs the drying function and flows into the second exhaust duct (470).

[0128] Additionally, the filter unit (300) may further include a third filter unit (not shown) that filters foreign substances from the air flowing into the heat exchanger.

[0129] Meanwhile, FIG. 3 shows a partial enlarged view for explaining the duct section of a clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 shows a perspective view for explaining the intake duct connection section of a clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 shows a diagram for explaining the connection between the exhaust duct and the flow path switching section of a clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 shows a perspective view for explaining the structure of the flow path switching section of a clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7a and FIG. 7b show diagrams for explaining the airflow according to the rotation of the flow path switching valve of a clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram for explaining the arrangement relationship of the duct section of a clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 8, a duct section (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention is described as follows.

[0131] The duct section (400) supplies air to the first drum (130) and the tub (220), and can discharge air discharged from the first drum (130) and the tub (220) to the outside.

[0132] The duct section (400) includes an intake section (410), a heating section (420), an intake duct connection section (430), a first intake duct (440), a connection duct (445), a second intake duct (450), a first exhaust duct (460), a second exhaust duct (470), a flow path switching section (480), and an exhaust section (490).

[0133] The intake section (410) can receive air from outside the first drum (130) and the tub (220). The intake section (410) may be formed in the shape of a tube with one side open. In this case, one side of the intake section (410) may be positioned inside the first cabinet (110) and the second cabinet (210). Alternatively, one side of the intake section (410) may be formed to communicate with the outside of the first cabinet (110) and the second cabinet (210).

[0134] The other side of the intake section (410) may be connected to the heating section (420). That is, the intake section (410) may be positioned closer to the first door (113) and / or the second door (213) than to the heating section (420). That is, the direction in which external air flows through the intake section (410) and enters the heating section (420) may be from the front to the rear.

[0135] The heating section (420) may be formed in the form of a pipe. At this time, one side of the heating section (420) is formed to be in communication with the other side of the intake section (410), and a heater (421) may be placed inside. The other side of the heating section (420) may be in communication with the intake duct connection section (430).

[0136] Based on the vertical direction, the heating unit (420) may be positioned between the first drum (130) and the tub (220). Additionally, based on the front-rear direction, the heating unit (420) may be positioned between the location where the tub (220) and the second intake duct (450) are connected and the location where the first drum (130) and the first intake duct (440) are connected. That is, the location where the tub (220) and the second intake duct (450) are connected and the location where the first drum (130) and the first intake duct (440) are connected may be positioned on the opposite side of the front-rear direction relative to the heating unit (420).

[0137] The heater (421) may be a means capable of generating heat to heat and dehumidify the air. At this time, various types of heaters may be applied to the heater (421). For example, in this embodiment, the heater (421) may be a heat pump, but is not limited thereto, and various heating methods such as electric heaters and gas heaters may be applied.

[0138] With this configuration, air introduced through the intake section (410) can be heated as it passes through the heating section (420).

[0139] Meanwhile, a third filter (not shown) may be disposed on the intake section (410) or the heating section (420).

[0140] The intake duct connection (430) can connect the heating unit (420) to at least one of the first intake duct (440) and the second intake duct (450).

[0141] The intake duct connection (430) is formed in the shape of a tube and can be combined with the heating section (420), the first intake duct (440), and the connecting duct (445). For example, the intake duct connection (430) can be positioned at the rear of the clothing processing device (1) and can be positioned along the vertical direction.

[0142] At this time, one side of the intake duct connection part (430) in the front-rear direction may be connected to the heating part (420), the upper side of the intake duct connection part (430) may be connected to the first intake duct (440), and the lower side of the intake duct connection part (430) may be connected to the second intake duct (450). In addition, the heating part (420), the first intake duct (440), and the second intake duct (450) may be connected by the intake duct connection part (430).

[0143] Accordingly, the air heated in the heating unit (420) can flow through the intake duct connection unit (430) to the first intake duct (440) or through the connection duct (445) to the second intake duct (450).

[0144] Accordingly, the intake section (410), the heating section (420), the intake duct connection section (430), the first intake duct (440), the connection duct (445), and the second intake duct (450) are connected to each other to form a passageway through which air can flow (hereinafter referred to as the 'intake passageway').

[0145] Meanwhile, the intake duct connection part (430) includes a first flap (431) and a second flap (432). At this time, the first flap (431) may be positioned on the upper side of the intake duct connection part (430), and the second flap (432) may be positioned on the lower side of the intake duct connection part (430).

[0146] The first flap (431) is hinged to the inside of the intake duct connection (430) and can open and close the passage connecting the intake duct connection (430) to the first intake duct (440) as it rotates.

[0147] When the first flap (431) is closed, the flow path connecting the intake duct connection (430) to the first intake duct (440) can be closed. Additionally, when the first flap (431) is opened, the first flap (431) is rotated from the intake duct connection (430) toward the first intake duct (440), so that at least a portion of the first flap (431) can be accommodated in the internal space of the first intake duct (440).

[0148] At this time, the first flap (431) may be configured to be closed when no external force is applied and to open when an external force is applied, by providing a torsion spring (not shown).

[0149] With this configuration, when negative pressure is generated in the first drum (130), the first flap (431) can be opened by the negative pressure of the first drum (130), and the intake section (410), heating section (420), intake duct connection section (430), and first intake duct (440) are connected to each other so that air can flow into the first drum (130).

[0150] The second flap (432) is hinged to the inside of the intake duct connection part (430) and can open and close the flow path connecting the intake duct connection part (430) to the second intake duct (450) through the connection duct (445) as it rotates. At this time, when the second flap (432) is closed, the flow path connecting the intake duct connection part (430) to the connection duct (445) can be closed. Also, when the second flap (432) is opened, the second flap (432) rotates from the intake duct connection part (430) toward the connection duct (445), so that at least a portion of the second flap (432) can be accommodated in the internal space of the connection duct (445).

[0151] At this time, the second flap (432) may be configured to be closed when no external force is applied and to open when an external force is applied, by being equipped with a torsion spring (not shown).

[0152] With this configuration, when negative pressure is generated in the second drum (230), the second flap (432) can be opened by the negative pressure of the second drum (230), and the intake section (410), heating section (420), intake duct connection section (430), connection duct (445), and second intake duct (450) are connected to each other so that air can flow into the interior of the second drum (230).

[0153] Meanwhile, although not illustrated, according to the embodiment, the first flap (431) and the second flap (432) may each be further equipped with a flap motor. The flap motor may be operated by the control unit (900) and may provide power to rotate the first flap (431) and the second flap (432). When a flap motor is provided, the first flap (431) and the second flap (432) may be opened and closed by the flap motor.

[0154] The first intake duct (440) can provide a passage through which heated (heat-exchanged) air can be introduced into the first drum (130). For example, the first intake duct (440) may be positioned at the inner rear of the first cabinet (110) and may be positioned along the vertical direction. At this time, the lower side of the first intake duct (440) may be connected to the intake duct connection part (430), and the upper side of the first intake duct (440) may be connected to the first drum (130).

[0155] Meanwhile, in the present invention, since the first exhaust duct (460) in which the first filter (310) is arranged must be positioned in front of the first drum (130), the first intake duct (440) is positioned behind the first drum (130).

[0156] The first intake duct (440) is formed in the shape of a pipe, and a flow path is formed inside through which air can flow. The lower side is connected to the intake duct connection part (430), and the upper side is connected to the internal space of the first drum (130). At this time, the part where the first drum (130) and the first intake duct (440) are connected to each other may have a shape in which a plurality of holes are formed. That is, a connection part in the form of a mesh net may be provided at the part where the first drum (130) and the first intake duct (440) are connected.

[0157] Through this, moisture or dust generated inside the first drum (130) can be prevented from entering the first intake duct (440).

[0158] Meanwhile, the connecting duct (445) is connected to the second intake duct (450) and can guide the flow of air in the opposite direction to the flow direction of air entering the intake section (410).

[0159] At this time, the connecting duct (445) in the present invention may be arranged along the front-rear direction within the second cabinet (210). For example, the rear side of the connecting duct (445) may be connected to an intake duct connection part (430) located at the rear of the clothing processing device (1), and the front side of the connecting duct (445) may be connected to a second intake duct (450).

[0160] The connecting duct (445) is formed in the shape of a pipe, forming a passageway through which air can flow, and the rear side is connected to the intake duct connection part (430), and the front side is connected to the second intake duct (450). At this time, the connecting duct (445) may be formed in a shape that is bent at least once. For example, the connecting duct (445) may be formed to slope upward from the rear side to the front side. Through this, there is an effect of reducing the backflow of air.

[0161] The second intake duct (450) can provide a passage to introduce heated (heat-exchanged) air into the tub (220).

[0162] At this time, the upper side of the second intake duct (450) in the present invention is connected to the connecting duct (445), and the lower side of the second intake duct (450) can be connected to the front side of the tub (220).

[0163] The second intake duct (450) is formed in the shape of a tube, and a flow path is formed inside through which air can flow. The upper side is connected to the connecting duct (445), and the lower side is connected to the internal space of the tub (220).

[0164] The first exhaust duct (460) can provide a passage through which air from the first drum (130) is discharged. Specifically, the first exhaust duct (460) can provide a flow path formed along the direction of gravity. For example, the first exhaust duct (460) may be a pipe in the shape of being flat in the front-rear direction. In this case, the lower side of the first exhaust duct (460) may be formed at a predetermined angle with respect to the ground.

[0165] With this configuration, water that has condensed after passing through the first exhaust duct (460) can flow down and collect due to its own weight, and can be discharged to the outside of the clothing processing device (1) by the flow force of the first blower device (461) to be described later. Therefore, moisture can be prevented from accumulating inside the first exhaust duct (460), thereby preventing the proliferation of bacteria, etc.

[0166] The upper side of the first exhaust duct (460) can be in communication with the internal space of the first drum (130), and the lower side of the first exhaust duct (46) can be in communication with the flow path switching section (480). Accordingly, air present inside the first drum (130) can pass through the first exhaust duct (460) and flow to the flow path switching section (480).

[0167] Meanwhile, the first exhaust duct (460) may be equipped with a first blower (461). The first blower (461) may provide a flow force that moves air within the first drum (130).

[0168] Although not shown, the first blower device (461) may be configured to include an impeller provided inside the first exhaust duct (460) and a blower motor that rotates the impeller.

[0169] The first blower (461) can generate a flow force to cause air to flow from the first drum (130) toward the flow path switching section (480). Therefore, when the first blower (461) is operated, air inside the first drum (130) flows toward the flow path switching section (480), and negative pressure can be formed in the first drum (130). Then, the first flap (431) can be rotated by the negative pressure of the first drum (130) to connect the first intake duct (440) and the intake duct connection section (430).

[0170] The second exhaust duct (470) can provide a passage for air to be discharged from the tub (220). Thus, air present inside the tub (220) can pass through the second exhaust duct (470) and flow to the flow path switching section (480).

[0171] Meanwhile, the second exhaust duct (470) may include a bellows. This is to withstand the fact that the front of the tub (220) is connected to the second cabinet (210) and has no movement or only slight movement, while the rear of the tub (220) shakes significantly due to the operation of the second drive unit (240).

[0172] However, the bellows described above are formed from materials susceptible to heat. Therefore, if the bellows are used in a duct through which high-temperature air flows, there is a limitation in that damage may occur due to the hot air.

[0173] To solve this, in the present invention, the second exhaust duct (470) may be formed in a shape extending from the rear side to the front side of the clothing processing device. That is, the second exhaust duct (470) may be connected to the rear side of the tub (220).

[0174] Specifically, the rear side of the second exhaust duct (470) is connected to the rear side of the tub (220), and the front side of the second exhaust duct (470) can be connected to the flow path switching section (480).

[0175] Accordingly, the second intake duct (450) is connected to the front side of the tub (220), while the second exhaust duct (470) can be connected to the rear side of the tub (220). Therefore, the location where the tub (220) and the second intake duct (450) are connected may be closer to the second door (213) than the location where the tub (220) and the second exhaust duct (470) are connected.

[0176] Accordingly, the high-temperature air introduced into the second intake duct (450) consumes heat while drying clothes inside the tub (220), and can be discharged through the second exhaust duct (470) after the temperature has decreased.

[0177] Therefore, according to the present invention, the temperature of the air flowing through the second exhaust duct (470) may be lower than the temperature of the air flowing through the second intake duct (450), and there is an effect of preventing the bellows-type second exhaust duct (470) from being damaged by heat.

[0178] Accordingly, according to the present invention, the first intake duct (440) is positioned behind the first drum (130), while the second intake duct (450) is connected to the front side of the tub (220). That is, with respect to the front-rear direction of the garment processing device (1), the position where the first intake duct (440) supplies air to the first drum (130) and the position where the second intake duct (450) supplies air to the tub (220) are different from each other.

[0179] Meanwhile, a second blower (471) may be provided in the second exhaust duct (470). The second blower (471) may provide a flow force to move air within the tub (220).

[0180] Although not shown, the second blower device (471) may be provided to include an impeller provided inside the second exhaust duct (470) and a blower motor that rotates the impeller.

[0181] The second blower (471) can generate a flow force to cause air to flow from the tub (220) toward the flow path switching section (480). Therefore, when the second blower (471) is operated, air inside the tub (220) flows toward the flow path switching section (480), and negative pressure can be formed inside the tub (220). Then, the second flap (432) can be rotated by the negative pressure inside the tub (220) to connect the second intake duct (450) and the intake duct connection section (430).

[0182] Meanwhile, the duct section (400) of the present invention can be used in common with the duct of the first clothing processing device (100) and the duct of the second clothing processing device (200) through the flow path switching section (480).

[0183] That is, the present invention can selectively open or close the first exhaust duct (460) or the second exhaust duct (470) through a flow switching unit (480) capable of switching the flow path.

[0184] The flow switching section (480) is coupled with the first exhaust duct (460), the second exhaust duct (470), and the exhaust section (490). The flow switching section (480) can be in communication with the first exhaust duct (460), the second exhaust duct (470), and the exhaust section (490). Accordingly, air introduced from the first exhaust duct (460) and / or the second exhaust duct (470) can pass through the flow switching section (480) and flow into the exhaust section (490).

[0185] The Euro switching section (480) includes a Euro switching section body (481), a first duct connection section (482), a second duct connection section (483), an exhaust connection section (484), and a Euro switching valve (485).

[0186] The Euro switching body (481) has a space formed inside through which air can flow, and is equipped with a Euro switching valve (485) inside, and may have a first duct connection part (482), a second duct connection part (483), and an exhaust connection part (484) formed therein.

[0187] The Euro-conversion body (481) is formed in a shape close to a parallelepiped, and one side may be formed with an upward slope, and the other side facing the one side may be formed in a protruding curved shape. For example, the one side may be the front of the Euro-conversion body (481), and the other side may be the rear of the Euro-conversion body (481).

[0188] At this time, a first duct connection part (482) may be formed on the one side, and an exhaust connection part (484) may be formed on the other side.

[0189] In this manner, air introduced into the interior of the Euro-switching body (481) can be guided to flow along the curved surface of the other side of the Euro-switching body (481) to the exhaust connection (484). Therefore, even if dust and other particles are introduced into the Euro-switching body (481) along with the air, they do not remain inside the Euro-switching body (481) but flow along the curved surface and can be discharged to the outside through the exhaust section (490).

[0190] Accordingly, according to the present invention, there is an effect of preventing foreign substances from remaining inside the duct section (400).

[0191] Also, the Euro switching body (481) may be formed such that the lower surface is wider than the upper surface. At this time, a Euro switching valve (485) may be hinge-connected between one surface and the lower surface (near the corner) of the Euro switching body (481). Accordingly, the Euro switching valve (485) may rotate between one surface and the lower surface of the Euro switching body (481).

[0192] The first duct connection part (482) is formed on one side of the flow path switching part body (481) and is coupled with the first exhaust duct (460). The first duct connection part (482) is formed in the shape of a pipe and can be formed to protrude from one side of the flow path switching part body (481). A flow path is formed inside the first duct connection part (482) and can communicate with the first exhaust duct (460).

[0193] The second duct connection part (483) is formed on the lower surface of the flow path switching part body (481) and is coupled with the second exhaust duct (470). The second duct connection part (483) may be formed in the form of a protruding pipe or hole on the lower surface of the flow path switching part body (481). A flow path is formed inside the second duct connection part (483) so as to be in communication with the second exhaust duct (470).

[0194] The exhaust connection (484) is formed on the other side of the flow path switching body (481) and is coupled with the exhaust section (490). The exhaust connection (484) is formed in the shape of a tube and may protrude from the other side of the flow path switching body (481). A flow path is formed inside the exhaust connection (484) and may communicate with the exhaust section (490).

[0195] Accordingly, air introduced from the first exhaust duct (460) and / or the second exhaust duct (470) can flow into the exhaust section (490).

[0196] The Euro switching valve (485) is positioned within the Euro switching body (481) and can open or close the first duct connection (482) or the second duct connection (483).

[0197] For example, the Euro switching valve (485) may be formed in a flat plate shape, and one side may be hinge-connected to the inside of the Euro switching body (481). At this time, the Euro switching valve (485) may be formed of a rubber or resin material to seal the first duct connection part (482) or the second duct connection part (483), and one or more ribs may be additionally formed to guide the flow of air or improve airtightness.

[0198] The Euro switching valve (485) can be rotated between a first position that closes the first duct connection (483) and a second position that closes the second duct connection (484).

[0199] Accordingly, when the Euro switching valve (485) is positioned in the first position, the connection between the first exhaust duct (460) and the exhaust section (490) is blocked, and the second exhaust duct (470) and the exhaust section (490) can be connected. Accordingly, the discharge of air through the first exhaust duct (460) is blocked, and only the discharge of air through the second exhaust duct (470) can be achieved (see FIG. 7a).

[0200] Conversely, when the Euro switching valve (485) is positioned in the second position, the first exhaust duct (460) and the exhaust section (490) are connected, and the connection between the second exhaust duct (470) and the exhaust section (490) can be blocked. Accordingly, only the discharge of air through the first exhaust duct (460) is made, and the discharge of air through the second exhaust duct (470) can be blocked (see FIG. 7b).

[0201] That is, the first exhaust duct (460) and the second exhaust duct (470) can be selectively opened and closed depending on the rotation of the Euro switching valve (485).

[0202] Alternatively, the Euro switching valve (485) may also be positioned at a third position between the first and second positions (see Euro switching valve position in FIG. 6). In this case, both the first exhaust duct (460) and the second exhaust duct (470) may be connected to the exhaust section (490). Thus, the discharge of air through both the first exhaust duct (460) and the second exhaust duct (470) may be permitted.

[0203] Meanwhile, when the flow switching valve (485) is positioned in a third position, foreign substances that may remain inside the flow switching body (481) can be removed. When the first blower (461) or the second blower (471) is operated while the flow switching valve (485) is positioned in the third position, the air passing through the first exhaust duct (460) or the second exhaust duct (470) meets the flow switching valve (485), changing the direction of flow, and the flow velocity can change according to the change in the diameter of the flow path. Accordingly, there is an effect of blowing foreign substances attached to the inside of the flow switching body (481) to the exhaust section (490).

[0204] In particular, when the gap between the inner surface of the flow switching valve (485) and the flow switching body (481) is narrow, the flow velocity can be increased significantly, so the effect of removing foreign substances can be high, and also, when the flow switching valve (485) is moved according to a preset pattern, the air velocity and flow can be changed to produce an effect similar to shaking off dust.

[0205] Accordingly, according to the present invention, even if there are multiple structures inside the duct section (400), there is an effect of preventing foreign substances from remaining.

[0206] Meanwhile, the Euro switching unit (480) of the present invention may further include a valve motor (486) that provides a driving force to move the Euro switching valve (485). The valve motor (486) is coupled to the Euro switching valve (485) through a shaft (486a) and can transmit rotational force to the Euro switching valve (485).

[0207] The valve motor (486) can change the direction of rotation. Therefore, the direction of rotation of the flow switching valve (485) can be changed via the valve motor (486), and the opening and closing of the first exhaust duct (460) or the second exhaust duct (470) can be selected. In addition, the flow switching valve (485) can be precisely rotated to the first position, the second position, as well as the third position by the valve motor (486).

[0208] Meanwhile, according to an embodiment, the flow switching valve (485) can be opened and closed by the flow force of the first blower (461) or the second blower (471). That is, when the flow switching valve (485) is not connected to the valve motor (486), the flow switching valve (485) can be opened and closed by hydraulic pressure generated by the operation of the first blower (461) or the second blower (471). Through this, there is an effect of reducing the number of parts and reducing power consumption.

[0209] The exhaust section (490) is coupled with the flow path switching section (480) and can discharge air that has passed through the flow path switching section (480) to the outside. The exhaust section (490) is formed in the shape of a pipe, one side is coupled with the flow path switching section (480), and the other side can be connected to the outside of the first cabinet (110) or the second cabinet (210).

[0210] Meanwhile, FIG. 9 shows a schematic diagram of a duct section (400) according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0211] In another embodiment of the present invention, the duct section (400), unlike the first embodiment of the present invention, may have the intake duct connection section (430) positioned at the front side of the clothing processing device (1). In this case, the heating section (420) may be positioned closer to the first door (113) and / or the second door (213) than to the intake section (410). That is, the direction in which external air flows through the intake section (410) and enters the heating section (420) may be from the rear to the front.

[0212] And, the intake duct connection part (430) can be combined with the heating part (420), the connection duct (445), and the second intake duct (450).

[0213] At this time, one side of the intake duct connection part (430) in the front-rear direction is connected to the heating part (420), the upper side of the intake duct connection part (430) is connected to the connecting duct (445), and the lower side of the intake duct connection part (430) can be connected to the second intake duct (450). Also, the heating part (420), the connecting duct (445), and the second intake duct (450) can be connected by the intake duct connection part (430).

[0214] Accordingly, the air heated in the heating unit (420) can flow to the first intake duct (440) by passing through the intake duct connection (430) and the connection duct (445), or flow to the second intake duct (450) by passing through the intake duct connection (430).

[0215] The first flap (431) can open and close the flow path connecting the intake duct connection part (430) to the connection duct (445).

[0216] When the first flap (431) is closed, the flow path connecting the intake duct connection (430) to the connecting duct (445) can be closed. Additionally, when the first flap (431) is opened, the first flap (431) is rotated from the intake duct connection (430) toward the connecting duct (445), so that at least a portion of the first flap (431) can be accommodated in the internal space of the connecting duct (445).

[0217] With this configuration, when negative pressure is generated in the first drum (130), the first flap (431) can be opened by the negative pressure of the first drum (130), and the intake section (410), heating section (420), intake duct connection section (430), connection duct (445), and first intake duct (440) are connected to each other so that air can flow into the first drum (130).

[0218] The second flap (432) can open and close the passage connecting the intake duct connection (430) to the second intake duct (450). At this time, when the second flap (432) is closed, the passage connecting the intake duct connection (430) to the second intake duct (450) can be closed. Additionally, when the second flap (432) is opened, the second flap (432) is rotated from the intake duct connection (430) toward the second intake duct (450), so that at least a portion of the second flap (432) can be accommodated in the internal space of the second intake duct (450).

[0219] With this configuration, when negative pressure is generated in the second drum (230), the second flap (432) can be opened by the negative pressure of the second drum (230), and the intake section (410), heating section (420), intake duct connection section (430), and second intake duct (450) are connected to each other so that air can flow into the interior of the second drum (230).

[0220] The first intake duct (440) can provide a passage through which heated (heat-exchanged) air can be introduced into the first drum (130). At this time, the lower side of the first intake duct (440) can be connected to a connecting duct (445), and the upper side of the first intake duct (440) can be connected to the first drum (130).

[0221] The lower side of the first intake duct (440) is connected to the connecting duct (445), and the upper side can be connected to the internal space of the first drum (130).

[0222] Meanwhile, the connecting duct (445) is connected to the first intake duct (440) and can guide the flow of air in the opposite direction to the flow direction of air entering the intake section (410).

[0223] At this time, the connecting duct (445) in the present invention may be arranged along the front-rear direction within the second cabinet (210). For example, the front side of the connecting duct (445) may be connected to an intake duct connection part (430) located in front of the clothing processing device (1), and the rear side of the connecting duct (445) may be connected to a first intake duct (440).

[0224] The connecting duct (445) may be connected to the intake duct connection part (430) at the front side and to the first intake duct (440) at the rear side. At this time, the connecting duct (445) may be formed in a shape that is bent at least once.

[0225] At this time, the upper side of the second intake duct (450) in this embodiment is connected to the intake duct connection part (430), and the lower side of the second intake duct (450) can be connected to the front side of the tub (220).

[0226] The second intake duct (450) is formed in the shape of a tube, and a flow path is formed inside through which air can flow. The upper side is connected to the intake duct connection part (430), and the lower side is connected to the internal space of the tub (220).

[0227] FIG. 10 shows a block diagram for explaining a control configuration according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0228] Referring to FIG. 10, the sensor unit (800) and control unit (900) according to the first embodiment of the present invention are described as follows.

[0229] Additionally, the clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention may further include a sensor unit (800). The sensor unit (800) may measure the moisture of the clothing or measure the water level for controlling the clothing processing device (1).

[0230] Specifically, the sensor unit (800) includes a dryness detection unit (810), a water level detection unit (820), and a quantity detection unit (830).

[0231] The dryness detection unit (810) may be equipped with at least one of an electrode sensor that measures the amount of moisture contained in the clothing by being provided to contact the clothing, and a humidity sensor that measures the humidity of the air flowing from the first drum (130) into the duct unit (400).

[0232] The electrode sensor may be provided to include two electrodes that are fixed to the first fixed body and can contact the clothing inside the first drum body (131). As the degree of dryness increases, the amount of moisture contained in the clothing decreases (the electrical resistance of the clothing increases), so the degree of dryness of the clothing contained in the clothing processing device (1) can be determined by observing the electrical resistance measured when the two electrodes are connected by the clothing.

[0233] Meanwhile, as the dryness of the clothing increases, the amount of moisture contained in the air flowing into the duct section (400) will decrease, so the clothing processing device (1) may determine the dryness of the clothing by observing the humidity of the air flowing into the first exhaust duct (460) through a humidity sensor.

[0234] The water level sensor (820) can measure the water level of the condensate or the amount of water in the second drum (230).

[0235] The quantity detection unit (830) can determine the amount of clothing stored inside the first drum (130) and / or the second drum (230). The quantity detection unit (830) may be provided as a means for transmitting to the control unit the amount of current supplied to the first motor (141) and / or the second motor (241) of the driving unit to rotate the first drum (130) and / or the second drum (230) at a constant rotational speed, and may also be provided as a means for transmitting to the control unit (900) the rotational speed of the first drum (130) when a constant amount of current is supplied to the first motor (141) and / or the second motor (241) for a constant period of time.

[0236]

[0237] Additionally, a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a control unit (900). The control unit (900) may be located anywhere as long as it can control the clothing processing device. Generally, the control unit (900) may be installed out of sight behind the control panel (910), but is not limited thereto.

[0238] The control unit (900) can control the rotation of the first drum (130) and the second drum (230) by controlling the first motor (141) and the second motor (241). Additionally, the control unit (900) can supply water by controlling the water supply valve (251), the first switching valve, the second switching valve, and the water supply pump of the water supply unit (250). Additionally, the control unit (900) can drain water by opening the drain valve (261) when the water level is full, and can discharge water to the outside by controlling the drain pump (266).

[0239] After the drying process begins by starting the rotation of the first drum (130), if the dryness measured through the dryness detection unit (810) is greater than or equal to the preset reference dryness, the control unit (900) can determine the amount of water currently stored in the condensate storage unit (not shown) through the water level detection unit (820) and, if it is insufficient, control the water supply unit (250) to supply water to the condensate storage unit (not shown).

[0240] When a volume detection unit (830) is provided, the control unit (900) can predict the amount of condensate that may occur in the clothing contained in the first drum (130) through volume detection. In addition, it can calculate the amount of water required for washing the clothing contained in the second drum (230).

[0241] When the amount of water stored in the condensate storage unit (not shown) exceeds a preset reference water level through the water level detection unit (820), the control unit can open the drain valve (261) to drain the water.

[0242] Additionally, the control unit (900) can circulate air in the clothing processing device (1) by controlling the first blower (461), the second blower (471), and the valve motor (486), which will be described later, as needed.

[0243] Specifically, the control unit (900) can operate the first blower (461) to circulate air to the first drum (130).

[0244] Referring to FIG. 11, when the first blower (461) is operated, the air inside the first drum (130) can be introduced into the first exhaust duct (460) and then discharged to the flow path switching section (480). At this time, according to the embodiment, the control section (900) can operate the valve motor (486) to connect the first exhaust duct (460) and the exhaust section (490), or the flow path switching valve can be rotated by the hydraulic pressure discharged from the first blower (461). Accordingly, the air passing through the first exhaust duct (460) can be discharged to the outside through the exhaust section (490).

[0245] At the same time, when the first blower (461) is operated, air inside the first drum (130) exits through the first exhaust duct (460), negative pressure is formed in the first drum (130), and the first flap (431) can be opened due to the pressure difference between the intake duct connection (430) and the first drum (130). Accordingly, air can pass through the intake section (410), the heating section (420), and the intake duct connection (430) and flow into the first intake duct (440).

[0246] Additionally, the control unit (900) can operate the second blower (471) to circulate air to the tub (220).

[0247] Referring to FIG. 12, when the second blower (471) is operated, air inside the tub (220) can be introduced into the second exhaust duct (470) and then discharged to the flow path switching section (480). At this time, according to the embodiment, the control section (900) may operate the valve motor (486) to connect the second exhaust duct (470) and the exhaust section (490), or the flow path switching valve may be rotated by the hydraulic pressure discharged from the second blower (471). Accordingly, the air passing through the second exhaust duct (470) can be discharged to the outside through the exhaust section (490).

[0248] At the same time, when the second blower (471) is operated, air inside the tub (220) exits through the second exhaust duct (470), negative pressure is formed in the tub (220), and the second flap (432) can be opened due to the pressure difference between the intake duct connection (430) and the tub (220). Accordingly, air can pass through the intake section (410), the heating section (420), and the intake duct connection (430) and flow into the second intake duct (450).

[0249] Accordingly, according to the present invention, even though the airflow path is shared by providing an intake duct connection part (430) and a flow path switching part (480), air can be circulated by operating only the first blower device (461) or the second blower device (471).

[0250] Therefore, it has the effect of reducing the number of motors used for air circulation, simplifying control, and reducing power consumption.

[0251] Before describing the clothing processing device according to the second to fifth embodiments of the present invention, the circulating (condensing) clothing processing device and the exhaust type clothing processing device are described as follows.

[0252] Clothing processing devices capable of drying clothes supply high-temperature air (hot air) to the clothes and can be classified into circulating (condensing) and exhaust type clothing processing devices based on the air flow method.

[0253] The circulating (condensing) clothing processing device is structured to circulate air in a first drum (130) in which clothing is stored, and to remove moisture (dehumidify) from the air discharged from the first drum (130), heat it, and then re-supply it to the first drum (130).

[0254] The exhaust type clothing processing device supplies heated air to the first drum (130), but discharges the air discharged from the first drum (130) to the outside of the clothing processing device without circulating it.

[0255] FIGS. 13 and 14 are conceptual diagrams of a clothing processing device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0256] Hereinafter, a clothing processing device according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 13 and FIG. 14.

[0257] The clothing processing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention is a circulating (condensing) clothing processing device equipped with two blowers (a first blower (610) and a second blower (620)) for flowing air.

[0258] A clothing processing device according to a second embodiment of the present invention may include a first cabinet (110), a first drum (130), a second cabinet (210), a tub (220), a second drum (230), a heating unit (420), a first intake duct (510), a second intake duct (520), a first exhaust duct (530), a second exhaust duct (540), a first blower (610), a second blower (620), a first flow path switching valve (710), and a second flow path switching valve (720).

[0259] To avoid redundant descriptions, unless otherwise specified, the clothing processing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention may incorporate the contents of the clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0260] For example, the first intake duct (510) and the second intake duct (520) according to the second embodiment of the present invention may incorporate the contents of the first intake duct (440) and the second intake duct (450) according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0261] The first flow path switching valve (710) can be in communication with the first intake duct (510), the second intake duct (520), and the heating unit (420). The first flow path switching valve (710) can open or close the first intake duct (510) or the second intake duct (520).

[0262] The first exhaust duct (530) can guide air discharged from the first drum (130) to the heating section (420). The air discharged from the first drum (130) through the first exhaust duct (530) can be heated in the heating section (420) to remove moisture, and then flow back into the first intake duct (510).

[0263] The second exhaust duct (540) can guide air discharged from the tub (220) to the heating unit (420). The air discharged from the tub (220) through the second exhaust duct (540) can be heated by the heater (421) of the heating unit (420) to remove moisture, and then flow back into the second intake duct (520).

[0264] The second Euro switching valve (720) can be connected to the first exhaust duct (530), the second exhaust duct (540), and the heating unit (420). The second Euro switching valve (720) can open or close the first exhaust duct (530) or the second exhaust duct (540).

[0265] The first blower (610) can provide a flow force to move air within the first drum (130), and the second blower (620) can provide a flow force to move air within the tub (220). At this time, the first blower (610) and the second blower (620) may each have the same structure and function as the first blower (461) and the second blower (471) described above.

[0266] To supply air heated in the heating unit (420) to the first drum (130), the first blower (610) is operated, and the second blower (620) is not operated. Therefore, when the first blower (610) is operated, the air heated by passing through the heating unit (420) flows into the first drum (130) by passing through the first flow path switching valve (710) and the first intake duct (510) in sequence, and the air flowing into the first drum (130) can flow back into the heating unit (420) by passing through the first exhaust duct (530) and the second flow path switching valve (720).

[0267] When the first blower (610) is operated and the second blower (620) is not operated, positive pressure is generated in the first exhaust duct (530) and negative pressure is generated in the first intake duct (510), so that air leakage from the second clothing processing device (200) can be prevented.

[0268] At least one of the first flow switching valve (710) and the second flow switching valve (720) can be opened and closed by the flow force of the first blower (610). Additionally, one of the first flow switching valve (710) and the second flow switching valve (720) can be opened and closed by the flow force of the first blower (610), and the other can be opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486). At this time, the first flow switching valve (710) and the second flow switching valve (720) may be configured to have the same structure and operating method as the flow switching valve (485) described above.

[0269] Referring to FIG. 13, the first blower (610) may be placed on the first intake duct (510), and the second blower (620) may be placed on the second intake duct (520). In this case, the first blower (610) may generate a flow force to cause air to flow from the heating unit (420) toward the first drum (130).

[0270] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 13, the first flow switching valve (710) can be opened and closed by the flow force of the first blower (610), and the second flow switching valve (720) can be opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486).

[0271] Referring to FIG. 14, the first blower (610) may be placed on the first exhaust duct (530), and the second blower (620) may be placed on the second exhaust duct (540). In this case, the first blower (610) may generate a flow force to cause air to flow from the first drum (130) toward the heating unit (420).

[0272] Additionally, referring to FIG. 14, the first Euro switching valve (710) can be opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486), and the second Euro switching valve (720) can be opened and closed by the flow force of the first blower (610).

[0273] FIGS. 15 to 17 are conceptual diagrams of a clothing processing device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0274] Hereinafter, a clothing processing device according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 17.

[0275] The clothing processing device according to the third embodiment of the present invention is an exhaust-type clothing processing device equipped with two blowers (a first blower (1610) and a second blower (1620)).

[0276] A clothing processing device according to a third embodiment of the present invention may include a first cabinet (110), a first drum (130), a second cabinet (210), a tub (220), a second drum (230), a heating unit (420), a first intake duct (1510), a second intake duct (1520), a first exhaust duct (1530), a second exhaust duct (1540), a first blower (1610), a second blower (1620), a first flow path switching valve (1710), a second flow path switching valve (1720), and an exhaust unit (1800).

[0277] To avoid redundant descriptions, unless otherwise specified, the clothing processing device according to the third embodiment of the present invention may incorporate the contents of the clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0278] For example, the first intake duct (1510) and the second intake duct (1520) according to the third embodiment of the present invention may incorporate the contents of the first intake duct (440) and the second intake duct (450) according to the first embodiment.

[0279] The first flow path switching valve (1710) can be in communication with the first intake duct (1510) and the second intake duct (1520). The first flow path switching valve (1710) can open or close the first intake duct (1510) or the second intake duct (1520).

[0280] Air from the first drum (130) can be discharged through the first exhaust duct (1530), and air from the tub (220) can be discharged through the second exhaust duct (1540). At this time, the first exhaust duct (1530) and the second exhaust duct (1540) may each have the same structure and function as the first exhaust duct (460) and the second exhaust duct (470) described above.

[0281] The second Euro switching valve (1720) can be connected to the first exhaust duct (1530) and the second exhaust duct (1540). The second Euro switching valve (1720) can open or close the first exhaust duct (1530) or the second exhaust duct (1540).

[0282] The first blower (1610) can provide a flow force to move air within the first drum (130). The second blower (1620) can provide a flow force to move air within the tub (220). At this time, the first blower (1610) and the second blower (1620) may each have the same structure and function as the first blower (461) and the second blower (471) described above.

[0283] The exhaust section (1800) can discharge air that has passed through the second Euro switching valve (1720) to the outside. At this time, the exhaust section (1800) may be configured to have the same structure and function as the exhaust section (490) described above.

[0284] The first blower (1610) is operated to supply air heated in the heating section (420) to the first drum (130) and to exhaust air discharged from the first drum (130) to the outside through the exhaust section (1800), while the second blower (1620) is not operated. Therefore, when the first blower (1610) is operated, the air heated by passing through the heating section (420) flows into the first drum (130) by passing through the first flow path switching valve (1710) and the first intake duct (1510) in sequence, and the air flowing into the first drum (130) can be exhausted to the outside through the exhaust section (1800) by passing through the first exhaust duct (1530) and the second flow path switching valve (1720).

[0285] When the first blower (1610) is operated and the second blower (1620) is not operated, positive pressure is generated in the first exhaust duct (1530) and negative pressure is generated in the first intake duct (1510), so that air leakage from the second clothing processing device (200) can be prevented.

[0286] At least one of the first flow switching valve (1710) and the second flow switching valve (1720) can be opened and closed by the flow force of the first blower (1610). Additionally, the first flow switching valve (1710) can be opened and closed by the flow force of the first blower (1610), and the second flow switching valve (1720) can be opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486). At this time, the first flow switching valve (1710) and the second flow switching valve (1720) may be configured to have the same structure and operating method as the flow switching valve (485) described above.

[0287] Referring to FIG. 15, the first blower (1610) may be placed on the first intake duct (1510), and the second blower (1620) may be placed on the second intake duct (1520). In this case, the first blower (1610) may generate a flow force to cause air to flow from the heating unit (420) toward the first drum (130).

[0288] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 15, the first Euro switching valve (1710) and the second Euro switching valve (1720) can be opened and closed by the flow force of the first blower (1610).

[0289] Referring to FIG. 16, the first blower (1610) may be placed on the first exhaust duct (1530), and the second blower (1620) may be placed on the second exhaust duct (1540). In this case, the first blower (1610) may generate a flow force to cause air to flow from the first drum (130) toward the heating unit (420).

[0290] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 16, the first Euro switching valve (1710) and the second Euro switching valve (1720) can be opened and closed by the flow force of the first blower (1610).

[0291] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 17, the second Euro switching valve (1720) can be opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486).

[0292] Since air with high humidity and lint flows through the first exhaust duct (1530) and the second exhaust duct (1540), condensation and lint mixing may occur in the clothing processing device (1). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 17, when the second flow path switching valve (1720) connected to the first exhaust duct (1530) and the second exhaust duct (1540) is opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486), the sealing performance is superior to when it is opened and closed by the flow force of the first blower (1610), thus preventing condensation and lint mixing in the clothing processing device (1).

[0293] FIGS. 18 and 19 are conceptual diagrams of a clothing processing device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0294] Hereinafter, a clothing processing apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 and FIGS. 19.

[0295] The clothing processing device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is a circulating (condensing) clothing processing device equipped with one blower (blower (2600)).

[0296] A clothing processing device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may include a first cabinet (110), a first drum (130), a second cabinet (210), a tub (220), a second drum (230), a heating unit (420), a first intake duct (2510), a second intake duct (2520), a first exhaust duct (2530), a second exhaust duct (2540), a blower (2600), a first flow path switching valve (2710), and a second flow path switching valve (2720).

[0297] To avoid redundant descriptions, unless otherwise specified, the clothing processing device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may incorporate the contents of the clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0298] For example, the first intake duct (2510) and the second intake duct (2520) according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may incorporate the contents of the first intake duct (440) and the second intake duct (450) according to the first embodiment.

[0299] Additionally, the first flow path switching valve (2710), the second flow path switching valve (2720), the first exhaust duct (2530), and the second exhaust duct (2540) according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may incorporate the contents regarding the first flow path switching valve (710), the second flow path switching valve (720), the first exhaust duct (530), and the second exhaust duct (540) according to the second embodiment.

[0300] The blower device (2600) can provide a flow force to move air within the first drum (130). At this time, the clothing processing device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention has a difference in that it has one blower device, unlike the clothing processing device according to the second embodiment which has two blowers.

[0301] Referring to FIG. 18, the blower (2600) may be positioned between the heating unit (420) and the second flow path switching valve (2720). Also, referring to FIG. 19, the blower (2600) may be positioned between the heating unit (420) and the first flow path switching valve (2710).

[0302] Meanwhile, either of the first Euro switching valve (2710) and the second Euro switching valve (2720) can be opened and closed by the flow force of the blower (2600), and the other can be opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486).

[0303] For example, when the first flow switching valve (2710) is opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486) and the second flow switching valve (2720) is opened and closed by the flow force of the blower (2600), the first flow switching valve (2710) can close the second intake duct (2520) (see FIG. 18).

[0304] This is to block the second intake duct (2520) connected to the heating unit (420) and the first intake duct (2510), thereby preventing air circulating through the heating unit (420), the first intake duct (2510), the first drum (130), and the first exhaust duct (2530) from flowing into the second intake duct (2520).

[0305] In another example, when the first flow switching valve (2710) is opened and closed by the flow force of the blower (2600) and the second flow switching valve (2720) is opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486), the second flow switching valve (2720) can close the second exhaust duct (2540) (see FIG. 19).

[0306] This is to block the second exhaust duct (2540) connected to the heating unit (420) and the first exhaust duct (2530) so that air circulating through the heating unit (420), the first intake duct (2510), the first drum (130), and the first exhaust duct (2530) does not flow into the second exhaust duct (2540).

[0307] FIGS. 20 to 23 are conceptual diagrams of a clothing processing device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0308] Hereinafter, a clothing processing device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 20 to 23.

[0309] The clothing processing device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention is an exhaust-type clothing processing device equipped with one blower (blower (3600)).

[0310] A clothing processing device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention may include a first cabinet (110), a first drum (130), a second cabinet (210), a tub (220), a second drum (230), a heating unit (420), a first intake duct (3510), a second intake duct (3520), a first exhaust duct (3530), a second exhaust duct (3540), a blower (3600), a first flow path switching valve (3710), a second flow path switching valve (3720), and an exhaust unit (3800).

[0311] To avoid redundant descriptions, unless otherwise specified, the clothing processing device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention may incorporate the contents of the clothing processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0312] For example, the first intake duct (3510) and the second intake duct (3520) according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention may incorporate the contents of the first intake duct (440) and the second intake duct (450) according to the first embodiment.

[0313] Additionally, the first flow path switching valve (3710), the first exhaust duct (3530), the second exhaust duct (3540), the second flow path switching valve (3720), and the exhaust section (3800) according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention may incorporate the contents regarding the first flow path switching valve (1710), the first exhaust duct (1530), the second exhaust duct (1540), the second flow path switching valve (1720), and the exhaust section (1800) according to the third embodiment.

[0314] The blower device (3600) can provide a flow force to move air within the first drum (130). At this time, the clothing processing device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention has a difference in that it has one blower device, unlike the clothing processing device according to the third embodiment which has two blowers.

[0315] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 23, the blower (3600) may be positioned between the heating section (420) and the first flow path switching valve (3710), and referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, the blower (3600) may be positioned between the second flow path switching valve (720) and the exhaust section (1800).

[0316] It is preferable that the blower device (3600) be positioned on one side of the first flow switching valve (3710) or the second flow switching valve (3720), which receives driving force from the valve motor (486). This is because when the flow switching valve (3710, 3720) is opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486), the sealing performance is superior compared to when it is opened and closed by the flow force of the blower device (3600).

[0317] Meanwhile, either of the first Euro switching valve (3710) and the second Euro switching valve (3720) can be opened and closed by the flow force of the blower (3600), and the other can be opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486).

[0318] For example, when the first flow switching valve (3710) is opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486) and the second flow switching valve (3720) is opened and closed by the flow force of the blower (3600), the first flow switching valve (3710) can close the second intake duct (3520) (see FIG. 20 and FIG. 22).

[0319] This is to block the second intake duct (3520) connected to the heating unit (420) and the first intake duct (3510), thereby preventing air circulating through the heating unit (420), the first intake duct (3510), the first drum (130), and the first exhaust duct (3530) from flowing into the second intake duct (3520).

[0320] In another example, when the first flow switching valve (3710) is opened and closed by the flow force of the blower (3600) and the second flow switching valve (3720) is opened and closed by receiving driving force from the valve motor (486), the second flow switching valve (3720) can close the second exhaust duct (3540) (see FIG. 21 and FIG. 23).

[0321] This is to block the second exhaust duct (3540) connected to the heating unit (420) and the first exhaust duct (3530) so that air circulating through the heating unit (420), the first intake duct (3510), the first drum (130), and the first exhaust duct (3530) does not flow into the second exhaust duct (3540).

[0322] Although the present invention has been described in detail through specific embodiments, this is for the purpose of specifically explaining the invention and is not limited thereto. It is evident that modifications or improvements to the present invention are possible by those skilled in the art within the technical scope of the invention.

[0323] All simple variations or modifications of the present invention fall within the scope of the present invention, and the specific scope of protection of the present invention will be clarified by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A first cabinet forming the exterior; A first drum rotatably provided inside the first cabinet to accommodate clothing; A second cabinet positioned below the first cabinet; A tub located inside the second cabinet above; A second drum rotatably provided inside the above tub to accommodate clothing; A heating unit that heats the air; A first intake duct that guides air passing through the heating unit to the first drum; A second intake duct that guides air passing through the heating unit to the tub; A first flow path switching valve communicating with the first intake duct and the second intake duct, and opening or closing the first intake duct or the second intake duct; A first exhaust duct that guides air discharged from the first drum to the heating unit; A second exhaust duct that guides air discharged from the above tub to the heating unit; A second flow path switching valve communicating with the first exhaust duct and the second exhaust duct, and opening or closing the first exhaust duct or the second exhaust duct; and A blower providing a flow force to flow air within the first drum; comprising A clothing processing device characterized in that either of the first Euro switching valve and the second Euro switching valve is opened and closed by the flow force of the blower, and the other is opened and closed by receiving driving force from a valve motor.

2. In Paragraph 1, A clothing processing device characterized in that when the first Euro switching valve receives driving force from the valve motor, the first Euro switching valve closes the second intake duct.

3. In Paragraph 1, A clothing processing device characterized in that when the second Euro switching valve receives driving force from the valve motor, the second Euro switching valve closes the second exhaust duct.

4. In Paragraph 1, A clothing processing device characterized by the above-mentioned blower being positioned between the heating unit and the first flow path switching valve.

5. In Paragraph 1, A clothing processing device characterized by the above-mentioned blower being positioned between the heating unit and the second flow path switching valve.

6. A first cabinet forming the exterior; A first drum rotatably provided inside the first cabinet to accommodate clothing; A second cabinet positioned below the first cabinet; A tub located inside the second cabinet above; A second drum rotatably provided inside the above tub to accommodate clothing; A heating unit that heats the air; A first intake duct that guides air passing through the heating unit to the first drum; A second intake duct that guides air passing through the heating unit to the tub; A first flow path switching valve communicating with the first intake duct and the second intake duct, and opening or closing the first intake duct or the second intake duct; A first exhaust duct through which air from the first drum is discharged; A second exhaust duct through which air from the above tub is discharged; and A second flow path switching valve communicating with the first exhaust duct and the second exhaust duct, and opening or closing the first exhaust duct or the second exhaust duct; A blower providing a flow force to flow air within the first drum; and It includes an exhaust section that discharges air passing through the second Euro switching valve to the outside; and A clothing processing device characterized in that either of the first Euro switching valve and the second Euro switching valve is opened and closed by the flow force of a blower, and the other is opened and closed by receiving driving force from a valve motor.

7. In Paragraph 6, A clothing processing device characterized in that when the first Euro switching valve receives driving force from the valve motor, the first Euro switching valve closes the second intake duct.

8. In Paragraph 6, A clothing processing device characterized in that when the second Euro switching valve receives driving force from the valve motor, the second Euro switching valve closes the second exhaust duct.

9. In Paragraph 6, A clothing processing device characterized by the above-mentioned blower being positioned between the heating unit and the first flow path switching valve.

10. In Paragraph 6, A clothing processing device characterized in that the above-mentioned blower is positioned between the second Euro switching valve and the heating unit.

Images