Clothing treatment apparatus and method for controlling same

Abstract

A clothing treatment apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention disclosed herein comprises: a drum that accommodates clothes; a driving motor that rotates the drum; a current sensor that detects a current flowing through the motor; a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of air discharged from the drum; a humidity sensor that detects the humidity of the air discharged from the drum; and a control unit that determines the weight of the clothes accommodated in the drum on the basis of a detection result of the current sensor, and if the weight is equal to or greater than a reference weight, determines whether the clothes are finished drying on the basis of a change in the humidity detected by the humidity sensor and the number of times the temperature, detected by the temperature sensor, reaches a target temperature.

Description

Clothing processing device and control method thereof

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

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

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

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

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

[0006] One aspect of the disclosed invention provides a garment processing device and a control method thereof that can determine the degree of drying in an appropriate manner according to the type and amount of garment by determining whether drying is complete differently depending on the weight of the garment.

[0007] In addition, when the weight of the clothing exceeds a certain weight, a clothing processing device and a control method are provided that prevent incomplete or excessive drying situations by considering not only humidity but also the number of times the target temperature is reached, and enable more precise determination of the degree of drying.

[0008] In addition, a garment processing device and a control method thereof are provided, which can reduce energy consumption by increasing user convenience through more accurate prediction of drying end time via precise drying degree judgment and preventing over-drying.

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

[0010] A garment processing device according to one aspect of the disclosed invention may include: a drum for receiving garments; a driving motor for rotating the drum; a current sensor for detecting a current flowing through the motor; a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of air discharged from the drum; a humidity sensor for detecting the humidity of the air discharged from the drum; and a control unit that determines the weight of the garments received in the drum based on the detection result of the current sensor, and, when the weight is greater than or equal to a reference weight, determines whether the drying of the garments is complete based on the change in humidity detected by the humidity sensor and the number of times the temperature detected by the temperature sensor reaches a target temperature.

[0011] A control method for a garment processing device according to one aspect of the disclosed invention may include, in a control method for a garment processing device comprising a drum for receiving garments and a driving motor for rotating the drum, determining the weight of the garments received in the drum based on the detection result of the current flowing through the motor by a current sensor; and, when the weight is greater than or equal to a reference weight, determining whether the drying of the garments is completed based on the change in humidity of the air discharged from the drum detected by a humidity sensor and the number of times the temperature of the air discharged from the drum detected by a temperature sensor reaches a target temperature.

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2 illustrates a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-section of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 4 illustrates a part of the configuration disposed inside a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 5 illustrates a part of a configuration disposed inside a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 4.

[0017] FIG. 6 illustrates a state in which a drying device of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is separated from a tub.

[0018] FIG. 7 illustrates the state in which the drying device of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is separated from the tub in a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 6.

[0019] FIG. 8 illustrates the hot air supply device and discharge device of the drying device of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, disassembled from the drying case.

[0020] FIG. 9 illustrates the interior of a hot air supply device and an exhaust device by disassembling a part of the drying device of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 10 shows the interior of a hot air supply device and a discharge device by disassembling a part of the drying device of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, in a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 9.

[0022] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a control block diagram of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a process for determining whether drying is complete according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 14 is a graph illustrating changes in temperature and humidity over time according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a process for determining whether drying is complete according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 16 is a graph illustrating the change in humidity over time according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0029] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0030] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0031] In this document, each of the phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0032] The term “and / or” includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0033] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0034] Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0035] Terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0036] When it is said that one component is “connected,” “combined,” “supported,” or “in contact” with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0037] When it is said that a component is located “on” another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0038] A washing machine according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying operations. A washing machine is an example of a clothing processing device, and a clothing processing device is a concept that encompasses a device for washing clothing (clothing to be washed, clothing to be dried), a device for drying clothing, and a device capable of performing both washing and drying of clothing.

[0039] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include a top-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet for loading or unloading laundry is provided to face upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet is provided to face forward. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with loading methods other than top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines.

[0040] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water flow generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry. A front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine capable of drying laundry contained inside the drum. The washing machine capable of drying may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum. As an example, the washing machine capable of drying may include a heater. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with washing methods other than those described above.

[0041] A washing machine according to various embodiments may include a housing that accommodates various components inside. The housing may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry input opening formed on one side.

[0042] The washing machine may include a door for opening and closing a laundry input. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing by means of a hinge. At least one part of the door may be made transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing is visible.

[0043] The washing machine may include a tub provided inside the housing to store water. The tub is provided in a roughly cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be positioned inside the housing such that the tub opening corresponds to the laundry inlet.

[0044] The tub can be connected to the housing by a damper. The damper can absorb vibrations generated during the rotation of the drum and attenuate vibrations transmitted to the housing.

[0045] The washing machine may include a drum provided to accommodate laundry.

[0046] The drum may be positioned inside the tub such that a drum opening provided on one side corresponds to a laundry inlet and a tub opening. Laundry may pass through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening in sequence to be received inside the drum or withdrawn from the drum.

[0047] The drum can rotate inside the tub and perform respective actions according to the washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying cycles. A number of holes are formed in the cylindrical wall of the drum so that water stored in the tub can flow into the interior of the drum or out of the exterior of the drum.

[0048] The washing machine may include a drive unit configured to rotate the drum. The drive unit may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting the driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may pass through the tub and be connected to the drum.

[0049] The drive unit can rotate the drum in the forward or reverse direction to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, or drying cycles.

[0050] The washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to the tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve provided in the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe may extend from the external water source to a detergent dispenser and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub via the detergent dispenser. Water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent dispenser.

[0051] The water supply valve can open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valve can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0052] The washing machine may include a detergent dispenser configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent dispenser may include a manual detergent dispenser in which the user must add the detergent to be used for each wash cycle, and an automatic detergent dispenser that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically dispenses a predetermined amount during a wash cycle. The detergent dispenser may include a detergent container for storing detergent. The detergent dispenser may be configured to supply detergent into the tub during the water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe may be mixed with the detergent by passing through the detergent dispenser. The water mixed with the detergent may be supplied into the tub. The term "detergent" is used as a collective term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent container may be divided into a pre-wash detergent storage area, a main wash detergent storage area, a fabric softener storage area, and a bleach storage area.

[0053] The washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water contained in a tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the tub to the outside of the housing, a drain valve provided in the drain pipe to open and close the drain pipe, and a pump provided on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water from the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0054] The washing machine may include a control panel disposed on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface for the user to interact with the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0055] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0056] At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. At least one input interface may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0057] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user.

[0058] For example, at least one output interface can convey information to the user regarding the washing course, the washing machine's operating time, and washing settings, rinse settings, and spin settings. Information regarding the operation of the washing machine may be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0059] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with an external device via wired and / or wireless means.

[0060] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0061] The communication module can transmit data to external devices (e.g., servers, user devices, and / or home appliances) or receive data from external devices. For example, the communication module can establish communication with servers and / or user devices and / or home appliances and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0062] To this end, the communication module may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a LAN (local area network) communication module, or a power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules may communicate with an external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a long-range communication network such as a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0063] A short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, Bluetooth communication modules, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication modules, Near Field Communication modules, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication modules, Zigbee communication modules, infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication modules, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication modules, UWB (ultrawideband) communication modules, Ant+ communication modules, microwave (uWave) communication modules, etc.

[0064] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0065] In one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices, such as a server, a user device, or other home appliances, through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine or user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The control unit can control various components of the washing machine (e.g., drive motor, water supply valve). The control unit can control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one operation, including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, according to user input. For example, the control unit can control the drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of the drum or control the water supply valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0066] The control unit may include hardware such as a CPU or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the washing machine, at least one memory for storing data in the form of a program, and at least one processor for performing the aforementioned operation using data stored in at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0067] Hereinafter, a garment processing device according to various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the following description, a washing machine combined with a dryer is described as an example of a garment processing device, but the concept of the present disclosure is not limited to a washing machine combined with a dryer and can be applied to various devices for processing and / or managing garments.

[0068] The terms "front," "rear," "left," and "right" used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0069] For example, the X-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction, the Y-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction, and the Z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction.

[0070] FIG. 1 illustrates a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in a direction different from the direction illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-section of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 illustrates a part of a configuration disposed inside a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 illustrates a part of a configuration disposed inside a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in a direction different from the direction illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a clothing processing device (1) according to various embodiments may include a housing (10) that accommodates various components inside. The housing (10) may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry inlet (11) formed on one side. The laundry inlet (11) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0072] The garment processing device (1) may include a laundry door (17) for opening and closing a laundry input port (11). The laundry door (17) may be rotatably mounted to the housing (10) by means of a hinge. At least one part of the laundry door (17) may be made transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing (10) is visible. For example, the laundry door (17) may include tempered glass.

[0073] The clothing processing device (1) may include a lower door (18) configured to allow access to a lower detergent supply device (60). The clothing processing device (1) may include an upper door (19) configured to allow access to an upper detergent supply device (50) and a discharge filter (150).

[0074] The clothing processing device (1) may include a tub (20) provided inside a housing (10) to store water. The tub (20) is provided in a roughly cylindrical shape with a tub opening (21) formed on one side, and may be placed inside the housing (10) such that the tub opening (21) corresponds to the laundry input port (11). The tub opening (21) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0075] The tub (20) can be connected to the housing (10) by a damper (25). The damper (25) can absorb vibrations generated when the drum (30) rotates and attenuate vibrations transmitted to the housing (10).

[0076] The garment processing device (1) may include a diaphragm (22) for connecting the tub (20) and the housing (10). For example, the diaphragm (22) may extend between the laundry inlet (11) of the housing (10) and the tub opening (21) of the tub (20). The diaphragm (22) may be detachably mounted to the tub opening (21) of the tub (20). The diaphragm (22) may reduce the transmission of vibrations from the tub (20) to the housing (10). For example, the diaphragm (22) may include a material that is more flexible than the housing (10) and the tub (20).

[0077] The garment processing device (1) may include a drum (30) provided to receive laundry. At least one lifter (33) may be provided inside the drum (30) to perform washing by raising and dropping the laundry.

[0078] The drum (30) may be positioned inside the tub (20) such that a drum opening (31) provided on one side corresponds to a laundry inlet (11) and a tub opening (21). Laundry may be received inside the drum (30) or withdrawn from the drum (30) by passing through the laundry inlet (11), diaphragm (22), tub opening (21), and drum opening (31) in sequence. The drum opening (31) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0079] The drum (30) can rotate inside the tub (20) and perform each operation according to washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying cycles. A plurality of through holes (32) are formed in the cylindrical wall of the drum (30) so that water stored in the tub (20) can flow into the interior of the drum (30) or flow out of the drum (30).

[0080] The garment processing device (1) may include a driving device (36) configured to rotate a drum (30). The driving device (36) may include a driving motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting the driving force generated by the driving motor to the drum (30). The rotating shaft may pass through the tub (20) and be connected to the drum (30).

[0081] The driving device (36) can rotate the drum (30) in the forward or reverse direction to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying or drying process.

[0082] The clothing processing device (1) may include a water supply device (40) configured to supply water to a tub (20). The water supply device (40) may include water supply valves (41, 42) that can be connected to an external water source. For example, the water supply valves (41, 42) may include a first water supply valve (41) and a second water supply valve (42). As an example, the water supply valves (41, 42) may include a hot water valve (41) for supplying hot water and a cold water valve (42) for supplying cold water.

[0083] The water supply device (40) may include water supply pipes (43, 44). The water supply pipes (43, 44) may be connected to water supply valves (41, 42). For example, the water supply pipes (43, 44) may include a first water supply pipe (43) and a second water supply pipe (44). As an example, the water supply pipes (43, 44) may be provided as hoses or pipes made of a flexible material.

[0084] For example, the water supply pipes (43, 44) may include a hot water pipe (43) connected to a hot water valve (41) and a cold water pipe (44) connected to a cold water valve (42). At least one of the water supply pipes (43, 44) may guide water from the water supply valves (41, 42) to the tub (20). At least one of the water supply pipes (43, 44) may extend from the water supply valve (62) to the tub (20). Water may be supplied to the lower detergent supply device (60) via the tub (20). Water may also be supplied to the lower detergent supply device (60) without passing through the tub (20).

[0085] The water supply valves (41, 42) can open or close the water supply pipes (43, 44) in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valves (41, 42) can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub (20). The water supply valves (41, 42) may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0086] The garment processing device (1) may include a detergent supply device (50, 60) configured to supply detergent to a tub (20). The detergent supply device (50, 60) may include an upper detergent supply device (50) and a lower detergent supply device (60). The term "detergent" may be used as a general term encompassing pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc.

[0087] The upper detergent supply device (50) may be located on the upper part of the tub (20). The upper detergent supply device (50) may be located above the tub (20) in the vertical direction. The upper detergent supply device (50) may include a manual detergent supply device in which the user must add the detergent to be used each time laundry is performed, or an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically dispenses a predetermined amount of detergent during laundry. The upper detergent supply device (50) may be connected to the tub (20) through a detergent connecting pipe (51). For example, the upper detergent supply device (50) may be configured to supply solid laundry detergent and / or fabric softener, etc., to the tub (20). However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above-described example.

[0088] The lower detergent supply device (60) may be located at the bottom of the tub (20). The lower detergent supply device (60) may be located below the tub (20) in the vertical direction. The lower detergent supply device (60) may include a manual detergent supply device in which the user must add the detergent to be used each time laundry is performed, or an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically dispenses a predetermined amount of detergent during laundry. For example, the lower detergent supply device (60) may be provided to supply liquid laundry detergent and / or fabric softener, etc., to the tub (20). However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above examples.

[0089] The clothing processing device (1) may include a drainage device (70) configured to discharge water contained in the tub (20) to the outside. The drainage device (70) may include a drainage pump (71) for discharging water from the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10).

[0090] The clothing processing device (1) may include a circulation pump (76) for circulating water from the tub (20) back to the tub (20) via the lower detergent supply device (60).

[0091] The drainage device (70) can be connected to the tub (20) through the tub connecting pipe (72). The drainage device (70) can discharge water from the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10) through the drain pipe (73).

[0092] A clothing processing device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a washing water heater (24). The washing water heater (24) is provided on the lower side of a tub (20) and can heat the washing water during washing. Additionally, a water supply device (40) can supply a certain amount of water to the lower side of the tub (20) through a connecting channel (P) during a drying process, and the washing water heater (24) can generate steam by heating the water supplied into the interior of the tub (20) through the water supply device (40), the connecting channel (P), and the tub exhaust port (27). That is, the steam generated by the water supply device (40) and the washing water heater (24) can come into contact with the clothing during a drying process, thereby reducing the formation of wrinkles on the clothing.

[0093] That is, the clothing processing device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a washing / drying combined washing machine and, unlike a conventional dryer, may include a washing water heater (24) for heating the washing water, and can generate steam by utilizing the washing water heater (24) and a water supply device (40) for cleaning the connecting path (P) to prevent wrinkles from forming on the clothing during the drying process as much as possible.

[0094] The clothing processing device (1) may include a control panel (15) disposed on one side of the housing (10). The control panel (15) may provide a user interface for the user and the clothing processing device (1) to interact. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0095] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0096] At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. At least one input interface may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0097] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the clothing processing device (1) to the user.

[0098] For example, at least one output interface can transmit information to the user regarding the washing course and the operating time of the garment processing device (1), as well as washing settings, rinsing settings, and spin settings. Information regarding the operation of the garment processing device may be output via a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0099] The garment processing device (1) may include a control box (15c) for a control panel (15). The control box (15c) for the control panel (15) may be electrically connected to the control panel (15). The control box (15c) for the control panel (15) may supply power to the control panel (15). The control box (15c) for the control panel (15) may process information input through the control panel (15). The control box (15c) for the control panel (15) may control the control panel (15) so that the control panel (15) outputs information.

[0100] The clothing processing device (1) may include a drying device (100) for drying laundry contained inside a drum (30). The drying device (100) may be configured to heat air and supply it into the interior of a tub (20). The drying device (100) may discharge air discharged from the tub (20) to the outside of the clothing processing device (1). The clothing processing device (1) may be configured to draw in outside air, heat it, and supply it to the tub (20) to dry the clothes inside the drum (30), and then discharge the air discharged from the tub (20) to the outside of the clothing processing device (1) after drying the clothes inside the drum (30). The drying device (100) according to various embodiments may be placed on the upper part of the tub (20).

[0101] The clothing processing device (1) may include a terminal module (90). The terminal module (90) may include a terminal block. For example, the clothing processing device (1) including a drying function uses a relatively high voltage and can smoothly supply power through the terminal module (90).

[0102] The clothing processing device (1) may include a terminal cover (91) for covering a terminal module (90). The terminal cover (91) may be detachably coupled to the housing (10). For example, the terminal module (90) may be provided in a drying device (100), and the terminal cover (91) may be detachably mounted to the drying device (100).

[0103] The garment processing device (1) may include a connector coupling portion (149) for coupling a connector to electrically connect a terminal module (90) and a control panel (15). For example, a connector provided on a wire extending from the terminal module (90) may be connected at the connector coupling portion (149) to a connector provided on a wire extending from the control panel (15). The connector coupling portion (149) may include a space for coupling the connector provided on the wire extending from the terminal module (90) and the wire extending from the control panel (15). For example, the connector coupling portion (149) may be provided in a drying device (100). For example, the connector coupling portion (149) may be provided on the discharge cover (142) of the discharge device (140) of the drying device (100).

[0104] FIG. 6 illustrates a state in which a drying device of a clothing processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is separated from a tub. FIG. 7 illustrates a state in which a drying device of a clothing processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is separated from a tub in a direction different from that shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 8 illustrates a hot air supply device and a discharge device of a drying device of a clothing processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure disassembled from a drying case. FIG. 9 illustrates the interior of a hot air supply device and a discharge device by disassembling a part of a drying device of a clothing processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 illustrates the interior of a hot air supply device and a discharge device by disassembling a part of a drying device of a clothing processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in a direction different from that shown in FIG. 9.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 4 through 10, the drying device (100) may include a drying case (101). Various components of the drying device (100) may be installed in the drying case (101). For example, a hot air supply device (110) and / or a discharge device (140) of the drying device (100) may be installed in the drying case (101). The drying device (100) may be provided as a single module in which the hot air supply device (110) and the discharge device (140) are installed in the drying case (101).

[0106] Referring to FIG. 8, the drying case (101) may include a case opening (101a) for air flowing into the interior of the housing (10) to flow into the interior of the drying device (100). For example, the case opening (101a) may include at least one opening. As an example, the case opening (101a) may be provided on the side of the drying case (101) adjacent to the supply fan (130).

[0107] Referring to FIG. 8, the drying case (101) may include a tub connector (101b) for a portion of the discharge device (140) to be extended and connected to the tub (20). The tub connector (101b) may be provided so that the discharge connection part (143) and / or duct guide (144) of the discharge device (140) can pass through. When the discharge connection part (143) is connected to the duct guide (144), the discharge connection part (143) and / or duct guide (144) may be located in the tub connector (101b).

[0108] For example, the case opening (101a) may be provided at the left rear end of the drying case (101), and the tub connector (101b) may be provided at the right rear end of the drying case (101).

[0109] Referring to FIG. 8, the drying case (101) may include a guide mounting portion (102) for discharging air inside the drying device (100) to the outside of the drying device (100). As a part of the discharge device (140) is mounted on the guide mounting portion (102), air inside the drying device (100) can be discharged to the outside of the drying device (100). For example, the guide mounting portion (102) may be provided on the rear side of the drying case (101).

[0110] The drying device (100) may include a reinforcing frame (109) for reinforcing the rigidity of the drying case (101). For example, the reinforcing frame (109) may be detachably mounted to the front end of the drying case (101). For example, the reinforcing frame (109) may be mounted to the drying case (101) while the hot air supply device (110) and the discharge device (140) are mounted to the drying case (101). For example, the hot air supply device (110) and the discharge device (140) may be detached from the drying case (101) while the reinforcing frame (109) is detached from the drying case (101).

[0111] The drying device (100) may include a hot air supply device (110) for supplying hot air, i.e., heated air, to a tub (20). The hot air supply device (110) may be mounted on a drying case (101). A supply channel (116) for air to flow to be supplied to the tub (20) may be formed inside the hot air supply device (110).

[0112] For example, a hot air supply device (110) may be connected to a diaphragm (22). The end of the hot air supply device (110) from which air is discharged may be connected to the diaphragm (22). The diaphragm (22) may include a diaphragm connection part (22a) connected to the end of the hot air supply device (110). An air inlet (26) may be provided in the diaphragm connection part (22a). Air discharged from the hot air supply device (110) may be supplied into the interior of the drum (30) through the air inlet (26).

[0113] A hot air supply device (110) may be provided to guide air flowing into the interior of the housing (10) to the tub (20). A hot air supply device (110) may be provided to heat the air flowing into the interior of the housing (10). A hot air supply device (110) may be configured to make the outside air flowing into the interior of the housing (10) into high-temperature dry air.

[0114] For example, referring to FIG. 2, an external air hole (10a) for external air to be introduced may be formed on the rear of the housing (10), and as the hot air supply device (110) operates, external air may be introduced into the interior of the housing (10) through the external air hole (10a). Referring to FIG. 8, the air introduced into the interior of the housing (10) may be introduced into the interior of the drying device (100) through at least one case opening (101a) formed in the drying case (101). The air introduced into the interior of the drying device (100) may be introduced into the interior of the hot air supply device (110).

[0115] The hot air supply device (110) may include a supply base (111). The supply base (111) may be mounted on a drying case (101). The supply base (111) may form a part of the supply channel (116). Components of the hot air supply device (110) may be accommodated in the supply base (111). The supply base (111) may form at least a part of the supply channel (116). For example, the supply base (111) may have a shape with an open top.

[0116] The hot air supply device (110) may include a supply cover (112). The supply cover (112) may be coupled to a supply base (111). The supply cover (112) may cover an open portion of the supply base (111). The supply cover (112) may form at least a portion of a supply channel (116) together with the supply base (111). For example, as the supply cover (112) is coupled to the supply base (111), at least a portion of the supply channel (116) may be formed.

[0117] The hot air supply device (110) may include a drying heater (120) for heating air passing through the hot air supply device (110). The drying heater (120) may heat air flowing through the supply path (116). For example, the drying heater (120) may include a dual heater.

[0118] The drying device (100) may include a heater control box (129) for controlling the drying heater (120). The heater control box (129) may be electrically connected to the drying heater (120). For example, the heater control box (129) may be mounted on the drying case (101).

[0119] The hot air supply device (110) may include a supply fan (130) for forming an airflow inside the hot air supply device (110). The supply fan (130) may be provided to draw in air from outside the housing (10) and blow it into the tub (20). The supply fan (130) may be provided to supply air to an object inside the drum (30). As an example, the supply fan (130) may include a sirocco fan. For example, the supply fan (130) may be provided to draw in air in the direction of the rotational axis of the supply fan (130) and discharge it outwardly around the circumference of the supply fan (130).

[0120] The hot air supply device (110) may include a fan drive device (135) for providing power to a supply fan (130). As an example, the hot air supply device (110) may include a fan cover (113) that can be coupled to a supply base (111) and / or a supply cover (112). The fan drive device (135) may be mounted on the fan cover (113).

[0121] Referring to FIG. 10, the supply base (111) may include a supply inlet (117) for air to be introduced into the interior of the hot air supply device (110). The supply inlet (117) may be formed by penetrating the supply base (111) in the direction of the rotational axis of the supply fan (130). As the supply fan (130) operates, air from outside the hot air supply device (110) may be introduced into the interior of the hot air supply device (110) through the supply inlet (117).

[0122] The hot air supply device (110) may include a supply connection part (114) for connecting to the tub (20). The supply connection part (114) may be connected to the front end of the tub (20). For example, the supply base (111) may be extended in the front-rear direction, and the supply connection part (114) may be extended in the up-down direction.

[0123] The supply connection part (114) may include a supply guide section (114a) for guiding air flowing from the supply base (111) to the supply connection part (114). The supply guide section (114a) may have a rib shape. The supply guide section (114a) may be provided to agitate the dry air supplied to the tub (20) so as to reduce the temperature variation of the dry air supplied to the tub (20).

[0124] For example, the supply connection part (114) may be located at the opposite end of one end of the supply base (111) where the supply fan (130) is located. For example, the supply connection part (114) may be connected to the opposite end of one end where the supply inlet (117) of the supply base (111) is formed. As the supply connection part (114) and the supply inlet (117) are spaced apart from each other at both ends of the supply base (111), the air entering through the supply inlet (117) can be given time to be heated by the drying heater (120) before being supplied to the tub (20) through the supply connection part (114).

[0125] The supply connection part (114) of the hot air supply device (110) can be connected to an air inlet (26). The air inlet (26) of the tub (20) can be provided in a diaphragm (22) provided at the front end of the tub (20). The supply connection part (114) can be connected to a diaphragm connection part (22a) provided in the diaphragm (22). For example, the supply connection part (114) and the diaphragm connection part (22a) can be provided to be fixed by mounting a clamp on the combined portion of the supply connection part (114) and the diaphragm connection part (22a).

[0126] The drying device (100) may include a thermostat (170) configured to stop the operation of the drying device (100) when the temperature of the dry air supplied through the hot air supply device (110) exceeds a predetermined temperature. For example, the thermostat (170) may be mounted on the hot air supply device (110). For example, the thermostat (170) may include a sensor for detecting the temperature of the supply path (116).

[0127] Referring to FIGS. 3 through 7, heated air from a drying device (100) can be supplied into the interior of a drum (30) through a tub (20). To ensure that the heated air supplied into the interior of the drum (30) has time to remove moisture from the laundry, a tub exhaust port (27) may be provided at a location opposite to the air inlet (26) through which the heated air from the drying device (100) is supplied to the tub (20). To increase the distance and / or time that the heated air flows inside the drum (30) so that it can come into contact with the laundry more, the tub exhaust port (27) may be provided at a location opposite to the air inlet (26) through which the heated air from the drying device (100) is supplied to the tub (20). By increasing the time that the heated air comes into contact with the laundry, drying efficiency can be improved.

[0128] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air inlet (26) and the tub exhaust port (27) may be positioned to maximize the use of heated air provided from the drying device (100). For example, the air inlet (26) may be located at the front end of the tub (20), and the tub exhaust port (27) may be located at the rear end of the tub (20).

[0129] A clothing processing device (1) according to various embodiments may include a connecting channel (P) for air discharged from inside a tub (20) to flow to a drying device (100). The connecting channel (P) may be provided so that air discharged from a tub exhaust port (27) flows to a discharge channel (146) of the drying device (100). The connecting channel (P) may be provided to discharge humid air that has passed through the tub (20). For example, the connecting channel (P) may be provided at the rear of the tub (20).

[0130] The air inside the tub (20) can be discharged into the tub duct (28) through the tub exhaust port (27) formed at the rear of the tub (20). The air discharged into the tub duct (28) can flow along the connecting path (P) and be supplied to the drying device (100).

[0131] A garment processing device (1) according to various embodiments may include a tub duct (28) for forming at least a portion of a connecting channel (P). For example, the tub duct (28) may be formed integrally with the tub (20). For example, the tub (20) may include the tub duct (28). The tub duct (28) may be arranged to surround the tub exhaust port (27).

[0132] A clothing processing device (1) according to various embodiments may include a duct cover (29) for forming at least a portion of a connecting channel (P). The duct cover (29) may be provided to cover the open rear of a tub duct (28). For example, a tub (20) may include a duct cover (29). The duct cover (29) may form at least a portion of a connecting channel (P) for air discharged through a tub exhaust port (27) to flow to a drying device (100).

[0133] In the clothing processing device (1) according to various embodiments, a connecting channel (P) can be formed as a duct cover (29) is coupled to a tub duct (28).

[0134] A tub duct (28) according to one embodiment may include a recess (28a) that forms a part of a connecting passage (P) through which air discharged from the inside of the tub (20) flows. A reinforcing rib (23) may be provided on the back surface of the tub (20) to reinforce the rigidity of the tub (20), and the recess (28a) may be provided as a recessed portion from the end of the reinforcing rib (23) protruding from the rear surface of the tub (20). The recess (28a) may be provided as a portion of the back surface of the tub (20) where the reinforcing rib (23) is not formed. A tub exhaust port (27) for discharging air from the inside of the tub (20) may be formed in the recess (28a). The tub duct (28) may include a partition rib (28d) provided along the perimeter of the recess (28a). The partition rib (28d) can distinguish between the area where the reinforcing rib (23) is formed and the area where the recess (28a) is formed on the back side of the tub (20).

[0135] A tub duct (28) according to one embodiment may include a duct connection portion (28b) that forms another part of a connecting passage (P) through which air passes through a recess portion (28a). The duct connection portion (28b) may protrude outward from the outer surface of the tub (20). The duct connection portion (28b) may protrude approximately upward from the outer surface of the tub (20).

[0136] The duct connection part (28b) can connect the drying device (100) and the recess part (28a). The duct connection part (28b) can be connected to the discharge connection part (143) of the drying device (100). The duct connection part (28b) can form a single passage that forms a connecting flow path (P) together with the recess part (28a) and the duct cover (29).

[0137] The duct connection (28b) may be covered by a duct cover (29). One side of the duct connection (28b) may be open. The duct cover (29) may cover the open side of the duct connection (28b).

[0138] The duct cover (29) can cover both the recess section (28a) and the duct connection section (28b). For example, the duct cover (29) can cover both the open side of the recess section (28a) and the open side of the duct connection section (28b). A connecting passage (P) can be formed by the duct cover (29) covering the recess section (28a) and the duct connection section (28b). As an example, the duct cover (29) may cover only the recess section (28a).

[0139] The duct cover (29) may be provided to cover the open rear of the recess (28a) and / or the open rear of the duct connection (28b). The connection channel (P) may be a single passage formed by the tub duct (28) and the duct cover (29) together.

[0140] The tub duct (28) may include a stepped portion (28c) to expand the cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting channel (P). The connecting channel (P) may be configured such that the width of the portion formed by the duct connecting portion (28b) is greater than the width of the portion formed by the recess (28a) by the stepped portion (28c).

[0141] The drying device (100) may include a discharge device (140) for discharging air discharged from the tub (20) to the outside of the clothing processing device (1). The discharge device (140) may be mounted on the drying case (101). The discharge device (140) may be configured to form a discharge channel (146) for discharging air discharged from the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10).

[0142] The discharge device (140) may include a discharge base (141). The discharge base (141) may be mounted on a drying case (101). The discharge base (141) may form at least a portion of the discharge channel (146). The discharge base (141) may be configured so that the discharge channel (146) has a roughly U-shape.

[0143] The discharge device (140) may include a discharge cover (142). The discharge cover (142) may be coupled to the discharge base (141). The discharge cover (142) may form at least one part of the discharge channel (146). The discharge cover (142) may cover an open part of the discharge base (141). The discharge cover (142) may form at least one part of the discharge channel (146) together with the discharge base (141). For example, as the discharge cover (142) is coupled to the discharge base (141), at least one part of the discharge channel (146) may be formed.

[0144] The discharge device (140) may include a discharge connection part (143) connected to the tub (20). The discharge connection part (143) may guide air discharged from the tub (20) and passing through the connection path (P). A path for air to flow may be formed inside the discharge connection part (143). The discharge connection part (143) may be connected to the duct connection part (28b) of the tub (20).

[0145] For example, the discharge connection part (143) may include a flexible material. For example, the discharge connection part (143) may have a structure that allows for changes in length. For example, the discharge connection part (143) may include an elastic material. For example, the discharge connection part (143) may include a stretchable material. The discharge connection part (143) may be provided to reduce the transmission of vibrations from the tub (20) to the drying device (100). The discharge connection part (143) may seal between the duct connection part (28b) of the tub (20) and the duct guide (144) of the discharge device (140).

[0146] The discharge device (140) may include a duct guide (144) connected to a discharge connection part (143). The duct guide (144) may be provided to guide air passing through the discharge connection part (143) to a discharge path (146). The duct guide (144) may connect the discharge connection part (143) to a discharge base (141) and / or a discharge cover (142). The duct guide (144) may be provided to change the direction of air flow that is discharged from the tub (20) and flows upward along the connection path (P). The duct guide (144) may include a material with higher strength than the discharge connection part (143).

[0147] The discharge device (140) may include a discharge guide (145) for guiding air that has passed through the discharge base (141) to the outside of the housing (10). The discharge guide (145) may be connected to the discharge base (141). The discharge guide (145) may be mounted on a guide mounting portion (102) formed in the drying case (101). The guide mounting portion (102) may be located at the rear end of the drying case (101).

[0148] The discharge guide (145) may be located approximately in the center of the rear end of the drying device (100). For example, a water supply valve (41, 42) may be located on one side of the discharge guide (145), and a terminal module (90) may be located on the opposite side of the discharge guide (145) where the water supply valve (41, 42) is located. The discharge guide (145) may be located between the water supply valve (41, 42) and the terminal module (90) at the rear end of the drying device (100).

[0149] The drying device (100) may include a discharge filter (150) that can be detachably coupled to the discharge device (140). The discharge filter (150) can filter foreign substances from the air passing through the discharge device (140). The discharge filter (150) can filter foreign substances from the air passing through the discharge channel (146). The discharge filter (150) may be detachably mounted on the discharge base (141) and / or the discharge cover (142). The discharge filter (150) may be made accessible by opening the upper door (19) shown in FIG. 1.

[0150] A filter mounting portion (141a) for mounting a discharge filter (150) may be provided in the discharge base (141). The filter mounting portion (141a) may extend from the front end of the discharge base (141) toward the rear. The filter mounting portion (141a) may be provided to correspond to the size and / or shape of the discharge filter (150). The filter mounting portion (141a) may include a rail on which the discharge filter (150) can slide. The discharge filter (150) may be mounted by sliding on the filter mounting portion (141a).

[0151] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the clothing processing device (1) is provided with a discharge filter (150) for filtering foreign substances from the humid air discharged from the tub (20) in a drying device (100) located above the tub (20), so that a user or worker can easily access the filter for maintenance and / or repair.

[0152] The drying device (100) may include a humidity sensor (180) for detecting the humidity of the air discharged through the discharge device (140). The humidity sensor (180) may be configured to detect the humidity of the air passing through the discharge path (146). For example, the humidity sensor (180) may be mounted on the discharge device (140).

[0153] Additionally, the drying device (100) may include a temperature sensor (190) for detecting the temperature of the air discharged through the discharge device (140). The temperature sensor (190) may be configured to detect the temperature of the air passing through the discharge channel (146). For example, the temperature sensor (190) may be mounted on the discharge device (140).

[0154] The drying device (100) may include an EMI filter (Electromagnetic Interference Filter, 108). The EMI filter (108) may be configured to reduce or block electromagnetic interference of the clothing processing device (1). The EMI filter (108) may be mounted on the drying case (101). For example, the EMI filter (108) may be located at the rear of the hot air supply device (110). For example, the EMI filter (108) may be located at one corner of the drying case (101).

[0155] In a clothing processing device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a drying heater (120) is provided in a hot air supply device (110) and a discharge filter (150) is provided in a discharge device (140), so that damage to the discharge filter (150) by the drying heater (120) can be reduced.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 8, a clothing processing device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured such that a hot air supply device (110) and a discharge device (140) are each separated from a drying case (101). The hot air supply device (110) and the discharge device (140) may each be configured as separate components.

[0157] Below, the operation for determining the degree of dryness of the clothing in the drying process of the clothing processing device (1) is described in detail.

[0158] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a control block diagram of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a control method of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0159] As described above, the clothing processing device (1) may include a drum (30) for receiving clothing, a motor (34) for rotating the drum (30), a current sensor (160), a temperature sensor (190), a humidity sensor (180), and a control unit (300).

[0160] The current sensor (160) can detect the current flowing through the motor (34). The control unit can determine the weight of the clothing inside the drum (30) based on the detection result of the current sensor (160).

[0161] A temperature sensor (190) can detect the temperature of the air discharged from the drum (30). The temperature sensor (190) may be provided in the discharge device (140) to detect the temperature of the air discharged from the drum (30).

[0162] A humidity sensor (180) can detect the humidity of the air discharged from the drum (30). The humidity sensor (180) can be provided in the discharge device (140) to detect the humidity of the air discharged from the drum (30).

[0163] The control unit (300) may include a memory (302) that stores a control program and control data for controlling a driving device (36), a drying heater (120), etc., and at least one processor (301) that generates a control signal according to the control program and control data stored in the memory (302). The memory (302) and the processor (301) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (301) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (302) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory (302) and the processor (301) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0164] The memory (302) can store programs and data for controlling the driving device (36), the drying heater (120), etc. Additionally, the memory (302) can store information regarding the reference humidity and target temperature, etc., which will be described later.

[0165] The memory (302) may include volatile memory such as S-RAM (Static Random Access Memory, S-RAM) and D-RAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing data. Additionally, the memory (302) may include non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) for long-term data storage.

[0166] The processor (301) may include various logic circuits and arithmetic circuits, process data according to a program provided from memory (302), and generate control signals according to the processing result.

[0167] When a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of operations, the plurality of operations may be performed by a single processor or by a plurality of processors. For example, when a first operation, a second operation, and a third operation are performed by a method according to at least one embodiment, the first operation, the second operation, and the third operation may all be performed by a first processor, or the first operation and the second operation may be performed by a first processor (e.g., a general-purpose processor) and the third operation may be performed by a second processor (e.g., an artificial intelligence dedicated processor).

[0168] The control unit (300) can be electrically connected to various sensors (160, 180, 190), a driving device (36), a drying heater (120), etc.

[0169] When the drying process starts (1201), the control unit (300) can determine the weight of the clothing contained in the drum (30) based on the detection result of the current sensor (160) (1203).

[0170] The control unit (300) can determine whether the drying of the clothing is complete based on the change in humidity detected by the humidity sensor (180) and the number of times the target temperature is reached by the temperature sensor (190) when the weight is greater than or equal to the reference weight (1205).

[0171] Below, a detailed operation is described in which the control unit (300) determines whether the drying of the clothing is complete.

[0172] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether drying is complete according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 14 is a graph for explaining changes in temperature and humidity over time according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0173] When the drying process starts (1301), the control unit (300) can determine the weight of the clothing contained in the drum (30) based on the detection result of the current sensor (160) (1303).

[0174] If the weight of the determined clothing is greater than or equal to the reference weight (e.g., 1305), it can be determined whether the humidity of the air discharged from the drum (30), detected by the humidity sensor (180), is less than the reference humidity (1307). Here, the reference humidity is determined to be an appropriate value for determining whether the clothing is dry. For example, it may be a relative humidity of 30%.

[0175] When the humidity is below the standard humidity (e.g., 1307), the control unit (300) can determine that the drying of the clothing is complete (1311).

[0176] Afterwards, the control unit (300) can perform the drying process for a predetermined period of time and terminate the drying process.

[0177] If the humidity is above the standard humidity (No in 1307), the control unit (300) can determine the number of times the temperature of the air discharged from the drum (30), detected by the temperature sensor (190), reaches the target temperature (1309). Here, the target is to determine whether the drying of the clothing is complete and can be determined as an appropriate value. For example, the target temperature can be 60°C.

[0178] The control unit (300) can determine that the drying of the clothing is complete (1311) when the temperature of the air discharged from the drum (30), detected by the temperature sensor (190), reaches the target temperature more than a reference number of times (example of 1309). Here, the reference number is used to determine whether the drying of the clothing is complete and can be determined as an appropriate value. For example, the reference number may be 3 times.

[0179] Afterwards, the control unit (300) can perform the drying process for a predetermined period of time and terminate the drying process.

[0180] Referring to FIG. 14, the changes in temperature and humidity detected by the temperature sensor (190) and humidity sensor (180) over time are shown.

[0181] It can be seen that after time t1, the humidity detected by the humidity sensor (180) drops to less than 30%, which is the reference humidity. In this case, the control unit (300) can determine that the drying of the clothing is completed at time t1.

[0182] Figure 14 illustrates a case where the humidity drops below the reference humidity after time t1, but there may be cases where the humidity does not drop below the reference humidity until after time t2.

[0183] At this time, it can be determined that the drying of the clothing is completed at time t2, which is the point in time when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (190) reaches the target temperature of 60℃ for the third time.

[0184] In this way, by considering not only humidity but also the number of times the target temperature is reached, it is possible to determine more accurately whether the clothes are dry.

[0185] Although the above description explains how the number of times the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (190) reaches the target temperature is taken into account, the drying status of the clothing may also be determined by taking into account the number of times the drying heater (120) is turned on.

[0186] That is, the control unit (300) can perform the operation of turning off the drying heater (120) when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (190) reaches the target temperature, and turning on the drying heater (120) when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (190) reaches a first temperature lower than the target temperature.

[0187] Here, the first temperature is a temperature lower than the target temperature, for example, 58℃.

[0188] Accordingly, the control unit (300) can determine whether the drying of the clothing is complete based on the change in humidity detected by the humidity sensor (180) and the number of times the drying heater (120) is turned on when the weight of the clothing is greater than or equal to the reference weight.

[0189] That is, when the humidity is above the standard humidity, the control unit (300) can determine that the drying of the clothes is completed if the number of times the drying heater (120) is turned on is above the standard number.

[0190] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether drying is complete according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 16 is a graph for explaining changes in humidity over time according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0191] When the weight of the clothing based on the detection result of the current sensor (160) is less than the reference weight, the control unit (300) can determine whether the drying of the clothing is complete based on the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (180) and the slope of the change in humidity. That is, when the weight of the clothing is relatively light, unlike when it is heavy, the drying of the clothing can be determined using only the detection result of the humidity sensor (180).

[0192] That is, the control unit (300) can determine that drying is complete when the weight is less than the reference weight, and when the humidity sensor (180) determines that the humidity is less than the reference humidity and the slope of the change in humidity is less than the reference value (example of 1501) (1503).

[0193] Referring to Fig. 16, it can be seen that the slope of the change in humidity at time t3 drops below a reference value after the humidity has dropped below 30%. Here, the reference value can be set to an appropriate value for determining dryness while minimizing external influences.

[0194] Since it may be affected by external air due to exhaust devices, etc., drying can be determined more accurately by deciding that drying is complete when there is a gradual change in humidity rather than a sudden change.

[0195] Afterwards, the control unit (300) can perform the drying process for a predetermined period of time and terminate the drying process.

[0196] A clothing processing device according to one embodiment may include: a drum for receiving clothing; a driving motor for rotating the drum; a current sensor for detecting a current flowing through the motor; a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of air discharged from the drum; a humidity sensor for detecting the humidity of the air discharged from the drum; and a control unit that determines the weight of the clothing received in the drum based on the detection result of the current sensor, and, when the weight is greater than or equal to a reference weight, determines whether the drying of the clothing is complete based on the change in humidity detected by the humidity sensor and the number of times the target temperature detected by the temperature sensor is reached.

[0197] According to the present disclosure, the degree of drying can be determined in an appropriate manner according to the type and amount of clothing by determining whether drying is complete differently depending on the weight of the clothing.

[0198] In addition, when the weight of the clothing exceeds a certain weight, it is possible to prevent incomplete or excessive drying situations by considering not only humidity but also the number of times the target temperature is reached, and to make a more precise judgment of the degree of drying possible.

[0199] In addition, user convenience is enhanced through precise drying level determination, such as more accurate prediction of drying completion time, and energy consumption can be reduced by preventing over-drying.

[0200] The control unit can determine that the drying is completed if the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is less than the reference humidity.

[0201] The control unit may determine that the drying is completed if the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is greater than or equal to the reference humidity, and the number of times the target temperature detected by the temperature sensor is reached is greater than or equal to the reference number.

[0202] The control unit can determine whether the drying of the clothing is complete based on the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor and the slope of the change in humidity when the weight is less than the reference weight.

[0203] The control unit can determine that the drying is complete if the weight is less than the reference weight, the humidity is less than the reference humidity by the humidity sensor, and the slope of the change in humidity is less than the reference value.

[0204] The drying heater is further included, and the control unit can turn off the drying heater when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor reaches the target temperature, and turn on the drying heater when the detected temperature reaches a first temperature lower than the target temperature.

[0205] The control unit can determine whether the drying of the clothing is completed based on the change in humidity detected by the humidity sensor and the number of times the drying heater is turned on when the weight is greater than or equal to the reference weight.

[0206] When the control unit determines that the drying of the clothing is complete, it may perform the drying process for a predetermined time and terminate the drying process.

[0207] A control method for a garment processing device according to one embodiment may include, in a control method for a garment processing device comprising a drum for receiving garments and a driving motor for rotating the drum, determining the weight of the garments received in the drum based on the detection result of the current flowing through the driving motor by a current sensor; and, when the weight is greater than or equal to a reference weight, determining whether the drying of the garments is completed based on the change in humidity of the air discharged from the drum detected by a humidity sensor and the number of times the temperature of the air discharged from the drum detected by a temperature sensor reaches a target temperature.

[0208] Determining whether the drying of the above clothing is complete may include determining that the drying is complete if the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is below a reference humidity.

[0209] Determining whether the drying of the above clothing is complete may include determining that the drying is complete if the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is above a reference humidity, and the number of times the target temperature detected by the temperature sensor is reached is above a reference number.

[0210] If the above weight is less than the reference weight, determining whether the drying of the clothing is complete based on the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor and the slope of the change in humidity may be further included.

[0211] Determining whether the drying of the above clothing is complete may include determining that the drying is complete when the weight is less than the reference weight, and when the humidity is less than the reference humidity by the humidity sensor and the slope of the change in humidity is less than the reference value.

[0212] The above clothing processing device may further include a drying heater, and may further include turning off the drying heater when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor reaches the target temperature, and turning on the drying heater when the detected temperature reaches a first temperature lower than the target temperature.

[0213] Determining whether the drying of the above clothing is complete may include determining whether the drying of the clothing is complete based on the change in humidity detected by the humidity sensor and the number of times the drying heater is turned on when the weight is greater than or equal to the reference weight.

[0214] When it is determined that the drying of the above clothing is complete, the drying process may further include performing the drying process for a predetermined time and terminating the drying process.

[0215] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, the degree of drying can be determined in an appropriate manner according to the type and amount of clothing by determining whether drying is complete differently depending on the weight of the clothing.

[0216] In addition, when the weight of the clothing exceeds a certain weight, it is possible to prevent incomplete or excessive drying situations by considering not only humidity but also the number of times the target temperature is reached, and to make a more precise judgment of the degree of drying possible.

[0217] In addition, user convenience is enhanced through precise drying level determination, such as more accurate prediction of drying completion time, and energy consumption can be reduced by preventing over-drying.

[0218] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code and, when executed by a processor, may generate a program module to perform the operation of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0219] Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media that store instructions that can be decoded by a computer. Examples include ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage devices, etc.

[0220] As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been explained with reference to the attached drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be practiced in forms different from the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be interpreted restrictively.

Claims

1. A drum for holding clothing; A drive motor that rotates the above drum; A current sensor that detects the current flowing through the above-mentioned drive motor; A temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the air discharged from the drum above; A humidity sensor for detecting the humidity of the air discharged from the drum; and A clothing processing device comprising: a control unit that determines the weight of clothing contained in the drum based on the detection result of the current sensor, and, when the weight is greater than or equal to a reference weight, determines whether the drying of the clothing is completed based on the change in humidity detected by the humidity sensor and the number of times the target temperature detected by the temperature sensor is reached.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that determines that drying is complete if the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is below the reference humidity.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that determines that drying is completed when the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is greater than or equal to the reference humidity, and the number of times the target temperature detected by the temperature sensor is reached is greater than or equal to the reference number.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit is, A garment processing device that determines whether the garment is dry based on the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor and the slope of the change in humidity when the above weight is less than the reference weight.

5. In Paragraph 4, The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that determines that drying is complete when the above weight is less than the reference weight, the humidity is less than the reference humidity by the humidity sensor, and the slope of change of the humidity is less than the reference value.

6. In Paragraph 1, Including a drying heater; further The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that turns off the drying heater when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor reaches the target temperature, and turns on the drying heater when the detected temperature reaches a first temperature lower than the target temperature.

7. In Paragraph 6, The above control unit is, A garment processing device that determines whether the drying of the garment is complete based on the change in humidity detected by the humidity sensor and the number of times the drying heater is turned on when the above weight is greater than or equal to the reference weight.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit is, A garment processing device that, when it is determined that the drying of the garment is complete, performs a drying process for a predetermined time and terminates the drying process.

9. A control method for a garment processing device comprising a drum for receiving garments and a driving motor for rotating the drum, wherein Determining the weight of the clothing contained in the drum based on the detection result of the current flowing through the drive motor by the current sensor; A control method for a garment processing device comprising: determining whether the drying of the garment is complete based on the change in humidity of the air discharged from the drum detected by a humidity sensor and the number of times the temperature of the air discharged from the drum detected by a temperature sensor reaches a target temperature when the above weight is greater than or equal to a reference weight.

10. In Paragraph 9, Determining whether the above clothing is dry is, A control method for a clothing processing device comprising determining that the drying is complete if the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is below a reference humidity.

11. In Paragraph 10, Determining whether the above clothing is dry is, A control method for a clothing processing device comprising determining that drying is completed when the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is greater than or equal to a reference humidity, and the number of times the target temperature detected by the temperature sensor is reached is greater than or equal to a reference number.

12. In Paragraph 9, A control method for a clothing processing device further comprising determining whether the drying of the clothing is complete based on the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor and the slope of the change in humidity when the above weight is less than the reference weight.

13. In Paragraph 12, Determining whether the above clothing is dry is, A control method for a clothing processing device comprising determining that the drying is completed when the above weight is less than the reference weight, and when the humidity is less than the reference humidity by the humidity sensor and the slope of the change in humidity is less than the reference value.

14. In Paragraph 9, The above clothing processing device further includes a drying heater, and A control method for a clothing processing device further comprising: turning off the drying heater when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor reaches the target temperature, and turning on the drying heater when the detected temperature reaches a first temperature lower than the target temperature.

15. In Paragraph 14, Determining whether the above clothing is dry is, A control method for a garment processing device comprising determining whether the drying of the garment is completed based on the change in humidity detected by the humidity sensor and the number of times the drying heater is turned on when the above weight is greater than or equal to the reference weight.

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