Clothes treating apparatus and method for controlling same

Abstract

This clothes treating apparatus comprises: a tub; a water supply device for supplying water to the tub; a circulation pump for circulating the water in the tub; a laundry agent supply device for supplying a laundry agent to the water circulated by operation of the circulation pump; and a control unit for controlling the water supply device to supply water to the tub, driving the circulation pump for a first period after the supply of the water, controlling the laundry agent supply device to supply the laundry agent after the driving of the circulation pump, driving the circulation pump for a second period after the supply of the laundry agent, and determining whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged on the basis of the difference between a first load of the circulation pump measured in the first period and a second load of the circulation pump measured in the second period.

Description

Clothing processing device and control method thereof

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a clothing processing device 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 dryer function is a device that utilizes the driving force of a drum motor to agitate laundry, water, and detergent placed inside a tub, thereby enabling washing through mutual friction.

[0004] The processes performed by a washing machine combined with a dryer may include a washing process in which detergent and water are supplied to a tub containing laundry and the laundry is washed while rotating the drum, a rinsing process in which water is supplied to the tub and the laundry is rinsed by rotating the drum, and a spin-drying process in which water is discharged from the tub and the moisture is removed from the laundry by rotating the drum.

[0005] The operation performed by the combined dryer and washing machine may include a drying operation 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 operation, the combined dryer and washing machine may include a drying device.

[0006] The disclosed invention can provide a garment processing device capable of determining whether a laundry agent supply device is clogged, and a method for controlling the same.

[0007] The disclosed invention can provide a garment processing device and a control method thereof that can notify of a blockage of a laundry agent supply device when it is determined that the laundry agent supply device is blocked.

[0008] 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.

[0009] A clothing processing device according to one embodiment may include: a tub; a water supply device for supplying water to the tub; a circulation pump for circulating water within the tub; a laundry agent supply device for supplying a laundry agent to the water circulating by the operation of the circulation pump; and a control unit for controlling the water supply device to supply water to the tub, driving the circulation pump for a first period after the water supply, controlling the laundry agent supply device to supply the laundry agent after the driving of the circulation pump, driving the circulation pump for a second period after the supply of the laundry agent, and determining whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on the difference between a first load of the circulation pump measured during the first period and a second load of the circulation pump measured during the second period.

[0010] The control unit may determine that the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on the difference between the first load and the second load being less than the reference load.

[0011] It further includes a turbidity sensor that detects the turbidity of water stored in the tub; and the control unit can determine whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on the difference between a first turbidity value measured by the turbidity sensor during the first period and a second turbidity value measured by the turbidity sensor during the second period.

[0012] The control unit may determine that the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on at least one of the difference between the first load and the second load being less than the reference load or the difference between the first turbidity value and the second turbidity value being less than the reference turbidity value.

[0013] The control unit above can determine the reference turbidity value based on the weight of the laundry contained in the tub.

[0014] The control unit above can determine the reference turbidity value to be smaller as the weight of the laundry contained in the tub decreases.

[0015] The control unit performs a washing operation or a rinsing operation when it is determined that the laundry agent supply device is not clogged, and drives the circulation pump during the washing operation or the rinsing operation, wherein the maximum operating RPM of the circulation pump during the washing operation or the rinsing operation may be greater than the maximum operating RPM of the circulation pump during the first period and the second period.

[0016] A clothing processing device according to one embodiment further includes a user interface; and the control unit, when it determines that the laundry agent supply device is clogged, provides a notice regarding the clogging of the laundry agent supply device through the user interface, and if it does not receive a command to execute a cleaning operation for a predetermined period of time after providing the notice regarding the clogging of the laundry agent supply device through the user interface, it can perform a washing operation or a rinsing operation.

[0017] A clothing processing device according to one embodiment further includes a user interface; and the control unit, when it determines that the laundry agent supply device is clogged, provides a notice regarding the clogging of the laundry agent supply device through the user interface, and then, upon receiving a command to execute a cleaning process within a predetermined time, can perform the cleaning process by driving the circulation pump at a preset RPM.

[0018] A control method for a garment processing device according to one embodiment may include: a tub, a water supply device for supplying water to the tub, a circulation pump for circulating water within the tub, and a laundry agent supply device for supplying a laundry agent to the water circulating by the operation of the circulation pump; a step of controlling the water supply device to supply water to the tub; a step of driving the circulation pump for a first period after the water supply; a step of controlling the laundry agent supply device to supply the laundry agent after the operation of the circulation pump; a step of driving the circulation pump for a second period after the supply of the laundry agent; and a step of determining whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on the difference between a first load of the circulation pump measured in the first period and a second load of the circulation pump measured in the second period.

[0019] The step of determining whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged may include the step of determining that the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on the difference between the first load and the second load being less than a reference load.

[0020] The above clothing processing device further includes a turbidity sensor for detecting the turbidity of water stored in the tub; and the step of determining whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged may further include the step of determining whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on the difference between a first turbidity value measured by the turbidity sensor in the first period and a second turbidity value measured by the turbidity sensor in the second period.

[0021] The step of determining whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged may include determining that the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on at least one of the difference between the first load and the second load being less than a reference load or the difference between the first turbidity value and the second turbidity value being less than a reference turbidity value.

[0022] A control method for a clothing processing device according to one embodiment may further include: a step of providing guidance regarding the blockage of the laundry agent supply device through a user interface; and a step of performing a washing operation or a rinsing operation if a command to execute a cleaning operation is not received for a predetermined period of time after providing guidance regarding the blockage of the laundry agent supply device through the user interface.

[0023] A control method for a garment processing device according to one embodiment may further include: a step of providing a notice regarding the blockage of the laundry agent supply device through a user interface when it is determined that the laundry agent supply device is blocked; and a step of performing the cleaning process by driving the circulation pump at a preset RPM when a command to execute the cleaning process is received within a predetermined time after providing the notice regarding the blockage of the laundry agent supply device through the user interface.

[0024] According to the present disclosure, the operation of a garment processing device to maintain washing performance can be optimized by determining whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged.

[0025] According to the present disclosure, user convenience and product reliability can be improved by notifying the user that the laundry agent supply device is clogged.

[0026] The effects intended to be achieved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs from the description below.

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a clothing processing device according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates the components arranged inside a clothing processing device according to one embodiment as viewed from a first direction.

[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates the components arranged inside a clothing processing device according to one embodiment as viewed from a second direction.

[0031] FIG. 5 illustrates components used to circulate water stored in a tub among the components of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 6 illustrates the configurations of a laundry agent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 7 illustrates the combined relationship between the mixing case and the detergent pump of a laundry agent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 8 is a control block diagram of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation course executed by a clothing processing device according to one embodiment.

[0036] FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11 are flowcharts illustrating a control method of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment.

[0037] 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.

[0038] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0039] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0040] 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.

[0041] The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0042] 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).

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] When it is said that a 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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 and a condensation device for removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum. As an example, the washing machine capable of drying may include a heat pump device. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with washing methods other than those described above.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] The washing machine may include a drum designed to accommodate laundry.

[0055] 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.

[0056] The drum can rotate inside the tub and perform respective actions according to the washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying cycles. A number of through 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.

[0057] The washing machine may include a drive unit configured to rotate the drum. The drive unit may include a drum motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting the driving force generated by the drum motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may pass through the tub and be connected to the drum.

[0058] The drive unit can rotate the drum in the forward or reverse direction to perform each operation according to washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, or drying operations.

[0059] 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 through the detergent dispenser. Water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent dispenser.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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, and an automatic detergent dispenser that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically dispenses a predetermined amount during washing. 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 detergent by passing through the detergent dispenser. The water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub. The term "detergent" is used to encompass 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal. 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.

[0065] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user. For example, at least one output interface can convey information related to the operation course, the washing machine's operating time, and washing settings / rinse settings / spin settings to the user. 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.

[0066] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with an external device via wired and / or wireless means.

[0067] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0068] 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.

[0069] To this end, the communication module may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a 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).

[0070] 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.

[0071] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance 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.

[0072] 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., drum 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 drum 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] For example, the X-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction as the first direction. The Y-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction as the second direction. The Z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction as the third direction.

[0077] FIG. 1 illustrates a clothing processing device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 illustrates components arranged inside a clothing processing device according to one embodiment as viewed from a first direction. FIG. 4 illustrates components arranged inside a clothing processing device according to one embodiment as viewed from a second direction. FIG. 5 illustrates components among the components of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment that are used to circulate water stored in a tub.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 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.

[0079] The clothing processing device (1) may include a user interface (15) disposed on one side of the housing (10). The user interface (15) may be provided to allow 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.

[0080] For example, at least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal. 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.

[0081] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the garment processing device (1) to the user. For example, at least one output interface can convey information related to the washing course and the operating time of the garment processing device (1), as well as washing settings, rinsing settings, and spin settings to the user. 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.

[0082] The clothing processing device (1) may include a control circuit (16) for controlling a user interface (15). The control circuit (16) may be electrically connected to the user interface (15). The control circuit (16) may supply power to the user interface (15). The control circuit (16) may process information input through the user interface (15). The control circuit (16) may control the user interface (15) so that the user interface (15) outputs information.

[0083] 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.

[0084] The clothing processing device (1) may include a lower door (18) configured to allow access to a lower laundry agent supply device (60). The clothing processing device (1) may include an upper door (19) configured to allow access to an upper laundry agent supply device (50) and a filter (95).

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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).

[0087] 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).

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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).

[0091] The garment processing device (1) may include a drum motor (36) configured to rotate the drum (30). The garment processing device (1) may include a rotating shaft for transmitting the driving force generated by the drum motor (36) to the drum (30). The rotating shaft may pass through the tub (20) and be connected to the drum (30). The drum motor (36) may rotate the drum (30) in the forward or reverse direction during the washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and / or drying cycles.

[0092] The garment processing device (1) may include a water supply device (40) configured to supply water to the tub (20). The water supply device (40) may be connected to an external water source. 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). The first water supply valve (41) may correspond to a hot water valve for supplying hot water to the tub (20). The second water supply valve (42) may correspond to a cold water valve for supplying cold water to the tub (20).

[0093] 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. The first water supply pipe (43) may correspond to a hot water pipe connected to the first water supply valve (41). The second water supply pipe (44) may correspond to a cold water pipe connected to the second water supply valve (42).

[0094] At least one of the water supply pipes (43, 44) can guide water from the water supply valve (41, 42) to the tub (20). At least one of the water supply pipes (43, 44) can extend from the water supply valve (41, 42) to the tub (20). For example, water can be supplied to the lower laundry agent supply device (60) through the tub (20). Water can also be supplied to the lower laundry agent supply device (60) without passing through the tub (20).

[0095] 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). For example, the water supply valves (41, 42) may include a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0096] The garment processing device (1) may include a washing water heater (24). The washing water heater (24) is provided on the lower side of the tub (20) to heat the washing water during washing. Additionally, the water supply device (40) can supply a certain amount of water to the lower side of the tub (20) through the exhaust passage (P) during the drying operation, 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 exhaust passage (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 garment during the drying operation, thereby minimizing the formation of wrinkles on the garment.

[0097] That is, the clothing processing device (1) 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 by utilizing the washing water heater (24) and a water supply device (40) for cleaning the exhaust path (P), steam can be generated to minimize the formation of wrinkles on the clothing during the drying operation.

[0098] 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 comprehensive term encompassing pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc.

[0099] 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 detergent to be used each time laundry is performed, and / 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). The type of detergent is not limited to the above examples.

[0100] 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 supply detergent to be used each time laundry is performed, and / or an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically supplies 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.

[0101] The clothing processing device (1) may include a drying device (80) for drying laundry contained inside a drum (30). The drying device (80) may be configured to heat air and supply it into the interior of a tub (20). The drying device (80) may be configured to dry and heat the air discharged from the tub (20), and to circulate the dried and heated air into the interior of the tub (20) to dry the clothing inside the drum (30). According to various embodiments, the drying device (80) may be positioned above the tub (20).

[0102] The drying device (80) may include a drying case (81) on which a heat pump for drying air may be installed. The drying case (81) may include a drying base (81a) and a drying cover (81b) coupled to the drying base (81a) and arranged to form a flow path through which air can move. The drying cover (81b) may cover at least a portion of the open upper surface of the drying base (81a).

[0103] The drying device (80) may be provided as a heat pump system. The drying device (80) may include a compressor (91), a condenser (92), an evaporator (93), an expansion valve, and a refrigerant pipe (94) through which refrigerant circulates. The compressor (91), the condenser (92), the evaporator (93), and the expansion valve may be placed in a drying case (81). The drying device (80) may include a cooling fan (91a) for cooling the compressor (91). As an example, the drying device (80) may be mounted as a single module.

[0104] The compressor (91) compresses the refrigerant, and the compressed high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant can move to the condenser (92). The condenser (92) can cool the refrigerant and heat the surrounding air. The heated air flows into the interior of the drum (30) to dry the clothes.

[0105] The refrigerant expanded by passing through the expansion valve can absorb heat in the evaporator (93) and cool the surrounding air. That is, the evaporator (93) can cool the high-temperature, high-humidity air that has passed through the inside of the drum (30) to remove moisture. The air from which moisture has been removed passes through the condenser (92) and can be heated again by exchanging heat with the refrigerant passing through the condenser (92). That is, the condenser (92) can heat the air that has passed through the evaporator (93). The condenser (92) and the evaporator (93) can be referred to as heat exchangers. The condenser (92) can be referred to as the 'first heat exchanger'. The evaporator (93) can be referred to as the 'second heat exchanger'.

[0106] The drying device (80) may include an inlet guide (84) connected to the tub (20). The inlet guide (84) may guide air discharged from the tub (20) into the interior of the drying case (81). The inlet guide (84) may be in communication with an exhaust passage (P) formed in the tub (20). Air passing through the exhaust passage (P) may be introduced into the interior of the drying device (80) through the inlet guide (84).

[0107] A first end of the inlet guide (84) may be connected to the tub (20), and a second end opposite to the first end of the inlet guide (84) may be connected to the drying case (81). For example, the inlet guide (84) may be provided to reduce the transmission of vibrations from the tub (20) to the drying device (80). The inlet guide (84) may comprise a material that is more flexible than the tub (20) and / or the drying case (81).

[0108] The drying device (80) may include a filter (95) for filtering foreign substances, such as lint, contained in the air flowing in from the tub (20) through the exhaust passage (P). Air flowing into the interior of the drying device (80) through the inlet guide (84) may pass through the filter (95) and then move to the evaporator (93) and condenser (92). The filter (95) may be located on the passage where the air flowing into the drying device (80) moves to the evaporator (93) and condenser (92). The filter (95) may be detachably mounted on the drying case (81).

[0109] The condenser (92) and evaporator (93) can be mounted in the drying case (81). The air flowing from the tub (20) into the drying device (80) may be humid air as it passes through the interior of the tub (20) and dries the laundry. The humid air can be cooled in the evaporator (93) of the drying device (80) to remove moisture. The air from which moisture has been removed in the evaporator (93) can be heated again as it passes through the condenser (92).

[0110] The drying device (80) may include a nozzle device (96) for cleaning the condenser (92) and / or evaporator (93). For example, the nozzle device (96) may be mounted on the drying cover (81b) of the drying case (81). The nozzle device (96) may be located above the condenser (92) and / or evaporator (93). The nozzle device (96) may receive water from the water supply device (40) and spray cleaning water toward the condenser (92) and / or evaporator (93).

[0111] The clothing processing device (1) may include a drain connection pipe (97) for guiding water discharged from the drying device (80). The drain connection pipe (97) may guide condensate generated in the heat exchangers (92, 93) of the drying device (80) to the outside of the drying device (80). The drain connection pipe (97) may guide washing water sprayed by the nozzle device (96) for cleaning the heat exchangers (92, 93) to the outside of the drying device (80). For example, the drain connection pipe (97) may be connected to a drainage device (70). Water discharged from the drying device (80) may flow to the drainage device (70) along the drain connection pipe (97). Water flowing into the drainage device (70) through the drain connection pipe (97) may be discharged to the outside of the clothing processing device (1).

[0112] The drying device (80) may include a fan device (100) for supplying heated air, which has passed through the condenser (92), back into the interior of the tub (20). The fan device (100) may be positioned on one side of the condenser (92). For example, the fan device (100) may be located on the second side, which is opposite to the first side where the evaporator (93) of the condenser (92) is located. The fan device (100) may extend forward and downward to supply heated air into the interior of the drum (30). Since the fan device (100) is located on the second side, which is opposite to the first side where the evaporator (93) of the condenser (92) is located, the clothing processing device (1) can secure space for the control circuit (16) located at the front end of the clothing processing device (1). The control circuit (16) can be located at the front end of the clothing processing device (1), between a part of the fan device (100) and the filter (95).

[0113] The fan device (100) may be connected to a diaphragm (22). The air discharge end of the fan device (100) may be connected to the diaphragm (22). The diaphragm (22) may include a diaphragm connection part (22a) connected to the end of the fan device (100). Air discharged from the fan device (100) may be supplied into the interior of the drum (30) through the diaphragm connection part (22a).

[0114] As the drying device (80) is connected to the tub (20), air for drying laundry inside the drum (30) can circulate between the drying device (80) and the tub (20). Air discharged from the tub (20) can be supplied into the interior of the tub (20) after passing through the drying device (80) located above the tub (20).

[0115] The heated air from the drying device (80) can be supplied into the interior of the drum (30). To increase the contact between the heated air supplied into the interior of the drum (30) and the laundry, the tub exhaust port (27) may be provided at a position opposite to the diaphragm connection (22a) that guides the heated air from the drying device (90) to the tub (20). For example, the diaphragm connection (22a) may be located at the front of the tub (20), and the tub exhaust port (27) may be located at the rear of the tub (20).

[0116] By having the diaphragm connection part (22a) and the tub exhaust port (27) positioned facing each other with respect to the tub (20), the distance and / or time for heated air to flow inside the drum (30) can be increased, the contact between the heated air and the laundry can be increased, and the drying efficiency and / or drying performance can be increased.

[0117] The garment processing device (1) may further include an exhaust passage (P) for air discharged from the inside of the tub (20) to flow to the drying device (80). The exhaust passage (P) may be provided so that air discharged from the tub exhaust port (27) flows to the inlet guide (84) of the drying device (80). The exhaust passage (P) may be provided to discharge humid air that has passed through the tub (20). For example, the exhaust passage (P) may be provided at the rear of the tub (20).

[0118] 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 exhaust path (P) and be supplied to the drying device (80).

[0119] A garment processing device (1) according to various embodiments may include a tub duct (28) for forming at least a portion of an exhaust passage (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).

[0120] A garment processing device (1) according to various embodiments may include a duct cover (29) for forming at least a portion of an exhaust passage (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 the exhaust passage (P) through which air discharged through the tub exhaust port (27) flows to a drying device (80).

[0121] The garment processing device (1) may include a tub sealing member (29a) for sealing between the tub duct (28) and the duct cover (29). The tub sealing member (29a) may be provided along the perimeter of the tub duct (28) and / or the duct cover (29). The tub sealing member (29a) may include a material that is more flexible than the tub duct (28) and / or the duct cover (29).

[0122] In the clothing processing device (1) according to various embodiments, an exhaust passage (P) can be formed as a duct cover (29) is coupled to a tub duct (28).

[0123] A tub duct (28) according to one embodiment may include a recess (28a) that forms a part of an exhaust 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).

[0124] 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).

[0125] A tub duct (28) according to one embodiment may include a duct connection (28b) that forms another part of the exhaust passage (P) through which air passes through the recess (28a). The duct connection (28b) may protrude outward from the outer surface of the tub (20). The duct connection (28b) may protrude approximately upward from the outer surface of the tub (20).

[0126] The duct connection (28b) can connect the drying device (80) and the recess (28a). The duct connection (28b) can be connected to the inlet guide (84) of the drying device (80). The duct connection (28b) can form a single passage that forms an exhaust path (P) together with the recess (28a) and the duct cover (29).

[0127] 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).

[0128] 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). An exhaust 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).

[0129] 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 exhaust passage (P) may be a single passage formed by the tub duct (28) and the duct cover (29) together.

[0130] The tub duct (28) may include a stepped portion (28c) to expand the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the direction of air flow in the exhaust passage (P). The exhaust passage (P) may be configured such that the width of the portion formed by the duct connection portion (28b) is greater than the width of the portion formed by the recess portion (28a) by the stepped portion (28c). The stepped portion (28c) may be formed such that the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the direction of air flow expands as it moves in the direction of air flow in the exhaust passage (P). The clothing processing device (1) can secure the size of the exhaust passage (P) by the stepped portion (28c) and efficiently utilize the internal space of the housing (10).

[0131] The placement location of the water supply valves (41, 42) can be determined by utilizing the remaining space through this mounting structure. For example, the water supply valves (41, 42) can be mounted between the inlet guide (84) and the cooling fan (91a). The water supply valves (41, 42) can be located in the center of the rear of the drying device (80). The water supply valves (41, 42) can be located behind the condenser (92). The water supply valves (41, 42) can be located in an area partitioned from the flow path through which the drying air flows. The location of the water supply valves (41, 42) is not limited thereto. For example, the water supply valves (41, 42) can be mounted at the rear end of the drying case (81).

[0132] The garment 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). The drainage device (70) may be connected to the tub (20) through a tub connecting pipe (72). Water inside the tub (20) may flow into the drainage pump (71) through the tub connecting pipe (72). Additionally, water inside the tub (20) may flow into the drainage pump (71) through the tub connecting pipe (72), then pass through the lower laundry agent supply device (60) and flow into the circulation pump (210). The drainage device (70) may discharge water from the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10) through a drain pipe (73).

[0133] The clothing processing device (1) may include a circulation pump (210) for circulating water stored in the tub (20) back to the tub (20). The circulation pump (210) may include a pump motor (211) for pumping water. When the pump motor (211) operates, water is discharged from the tub (20), and the water discharged from the tub (20) can be returned to the tub (20) via the circulation pump (210). For example, water discharged from the tub (20) can be returned to the circulation pump (210) via the tub connecting pipe (72), the drainage pump (71), and the lower laundry agent supply device (60), and then returned to the tub (20) via the circulation pump (210).

[0134] The garment processing device (1) may include a flow path switching device (220) for guiding water discharged from a circulation pump (210) to the upper side of a diaphragm (22) or the lower side of a tub (20). The upper side of the diaphragm (22) may be defined at various positions higher than the origin of the circular diaphragm (22). The garment processing device (1) may include a first pipe (221) connected to the upper side of the diaphragm (22) and a second pipe (222) connected to the lower side of the tub (20). A nozzle connected to the first pipe (221) may be provided on the upper side of the diaphragm (22). The first pipe (221) may connect the upper side of the diaphragm (22) to the flow path switching device (220). The second pipe (222) may connect the lower side of the tub (20) to the flow path switching device (220). The first pipe (221) may be referred to as the ‘circulation path’. The second pipe may be referred to as the ‘bubble path’.

[0135] The circulation pump (210) can be connected to the flow path switching device (220) through the pump connecting pipe (214). Water discharged from the circulation pump (210) can be guided to the flow path switching device (220) through the pump connecting pipe (214).

[0136] The flow switching device (220) can guide water discharged from the tub (20) through the circulation pump (210) to the first pipe (221) or the second pipe (222). Depending on whether the flow switching device (220) is operated, the water flow path can be determined to be the first pipe (221) or the second pipe (222).

[0137] For example, when the Euro switching device (220) is operated, water can be guided to the first pipe (221). After passing through the first pipe (221), water can be sprayed toward the inside of the drum (30) from the upper side of the diaphragm (22).

[0138] When the operation of the Euro switching device (220) is stopped, water can be guided to the second pipe (222). After passing through the second pipe (222), water can flow into the tub (20) from the lower side of the tub (20). Water flowing into the lower side of the tub (20) can increase the sloshing of the water stored in the tub (20).

[0139] The clothing processing device (1) may include a drainage connecting pipe (121) for connecting a drainage device (70) and a mixing case (620). One end of the drainage connecting pipe (121) is connected to the drainage device (70), and the other end of the drainage connecting pipe (121) may be connected to the mixing case (620). As the drainage connecting pipe (121) is connected to the mixing case (620), water discharged from the drainage device (70) can flow into the mixing case (620).

[0140] The clothing processing device (1) may include a circulation connecting pipe (122) for connecting a mixing case (620) and a circulation pump (210). One end of the circulation connecting pipe (122) is connected to the circulation pump (210), and the other end of the circulation connecting pipe (122) may be connected to the mixing case (620). By connecting the mixing case (620) and the circulation pump (210), water discharged from the mixing case (620) or water mixed with a laundry agent may flow to the circulation pump (210).

[0141] The laundry container (601a, 601b) can be docked with the laundry pump (610, see FIG. 6) when the laundry pump (610, see FIG. 6) is mounted in the mixing case (620). Further details regarding this will be described later.

[0142] FIG. 6 illustrates the configurations of a laundry agent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0143] FIG. 7 illustrates the combined relationship between the mixing case and the detergent pump of a laundry agent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0144] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the laundry agent supply device (60) may include a laundry agent container (601a, 601b) for receiving laundry agent, a laundry agent pump (610) connectable to the laundry agent container (601a, 601b), and a mixing case (620) for mounting the laundry agent pump (610).

[0145] The laundry detergent containers (601a, 601b) may include a first laundry detergent container (601a) and a second laundry detergent container (601b). The first laundry detergent container (601a) and the second laundry detergent container (601b) may be used to store different laundry detergents. For example, the first laundry detergent container (601a) may store a laundry detergent used in the washing process (1010, see FIG. 9), such as a pre-wash detergent or a main wash detergent, and the second laundry detergent container (601b) may store a laundry detergent used in the rinsing process (1020, see FIG. 9), such as a fabric softener. However, the same laundry detergent may be stored in the first laundry detergent container (601a) and the second laundry detergent container (601b).

[0146] The laundry container (601a, 601b) may include a laundry container body (602a, 602b) and a laundry container cover (603a, 603b) detachably coupled to the laundry container (601a, 601b). The laundry container body (602a, 602b) may have a box shape open at the top, and the laundry container cover (603a, 603b) may be provided to cover the open top of the laundry container body (602a, 602b).

[0147] The laundry container (601a, 601b) may include a laundry container lid (604a, 604b) provided to cover an opening for introducing laundry into the laundry container (601a, 601b) when the laundry container cover (603a, 603b) is combined with the laundry container body (602a, 602b). An opening for introducing laundry into the laundry container (601a, 601b) may be formed in the laundry container cover (603a, 603b), and the laundry container lid (604a, 604b) may be provided to cover an opening formed in the laundry container cover (603a, 603b).

[0148] The mixing case (620) may include a guide coupling part (629) for guiding the mounting of the laundry container (601a, 601b) so that the laundry container (601a, 601b) can be docked with the laundry pump (610).

[0149] The laundry container (601a, 601b) may include a docking guide (609a, 609b) for being coupled to a guide coupling part (629) when at least one part is accommodated in a mixing case (620).

[0150] For example, the docking guide (609a, 609b) may have a protruding shape and the guide coupling part (629) may have a groove shape, but is not limited thereto, and the docking guide (609a, 609b) may have a groove shape and the guide coupling part (629) may have a protruding shape. The guide coupling part (629) of the mixing case (620) may be coupled with the docking guide (609a, 609b) so that the detergent container (601a, 601b) guides the docking of the detergent suction part (611) and the docking part (606a, 606b).

[0151] The mixing case (620) may include a suction opening (621) through which the detergent suction part (611) of the detergent pump (610) can pass. When the detergent pump (610) is mounted at the rear of the mixing case (620), the detergent suction part (611) may be positioned so that it passes through the suction opening (621) and is located in a space (620s) for accommodating a part of the detergent container (601a, 601b) of the mixing case (620). As the detergent suction part (611) is located in the detergent container space (620s) for accommodating a part of the detergent container (601a, 601b), it is connected to the detergent container (601a, 601b) and can suck the detergent from the detergent container (601a, 601b).

[0152] The mixing case (620) may include a discharge opening (622) into which the detergent discharge part (612) of the detergent pump (610) can be inserted. When the detergent pump (610) is mounted in the mixing case (620), it can discharge detergent into a mixing channel (623) formed in the mixing case (620) through the discharge opening (622). The detergent pump (610) can supply detergent to the mixing channel (623). The mixing channel (623) may be provided between the mixing inlet (624) and the mixing outlet (625).

[0153] The mixing case (620) can be connected to the drainage device (70). The mixing case (620) may include a mixing inlet (624) for connecting to the drainage pump (71) of the drainage device (70). The drainage connecting pipe (121) in FIG. 5 can connect the drainage pump (71) of the drainage device (70) to the mixing case (620). One end of the drainage connecting pipe (121) is connected to the drainage device (70), and the other end of the drainage connecting pipe (121) can be connected to the mixing case (620). As the drainage connecting pipe (121) connects the mixing inlet (624) of the mixing case (620) to the drainage device (70), water discharged from the drainage device (70) can flow into the mixing channel (623) of the mixing case (620).

[0154] The mixing case (620) can be connected to the circulation pump (210). The mixing case (620) may include a mixing outlet (625) for connecting to the circulation pump (210). The circulation connecting pipe (122) in FIG. 5 can connect the circulation pump (210) and the mixing case (620). One end of the circulation connecting pipe (122) is connected to the circulation pump (210), and the other end of the circulation connecting pipe (122) can be connected to the mixing case (620). As the circulation connecting pipe (122) connects the mixing outlet (625) of the mixing case (620) to the circulation pump (210), water discharged from the mixing case (620) or water mixed with detergent can flow to the circulation pump (210).

[0155] The mixing case (620) may include a mixing channel (623) formed to mix the detergent discharged from the detergent discharge section (612) of the detergent pump (610) with the water introduced through the mixing inlet (624). The mixing channel (623) may extend between the mixing inlet (624) and the mixing outlet (625). The mixing channel (623) may form a part of the channel for water discharged from the drainage device (70) to flow to the circulation pump (210). The mixing channel (623) may be partitioned from the detergent container space (620s) of the mixing case (620) to accommodate a part of the detergent container (601a, 601b).

[0156] The laundry pump (610) can suck up the laundry stored in the laundry containers (601a, 601b) through the laundry suction part (611) and discharge it from the laundry discharge part (612).

[0157] The laundry pump (610) is configured to be connectable to the laundry container (601a, 601b) and may include a laundry suction part (611) for sucking up the laundry stored in the laundry container (601a, 601b). The laundry suction part (611) may be located in the laundry container space (620s) when the laundry pump (610) is mounted in the mixing case (620).

[0158] The detergent pump (610) is provided to be insertable into the discharge opening (622) of the mixing case (620) and may include a detergent discharge section (612) for discharging detergent into the mixing channel (623) formed in the mixing case (620). The detergent discharge section (612) may be located in the mixing channel (623) when the detergent pump (610) is mounted in the mixing case (620).

[0159] In summary, when the detergent is discharged from the tub (20) and flows through the tub connecting pipe (72) and drainage device (70) to the circulation pump (210), the detergent pump (610) can supply the detergent by sucking the detergent from the detergent containers (601a, 601b) and discharging it into the mixing channel (623).

[0160] If the laundry agent supply device (60) becomes clogged by the laundry agent, the supply of laundry agent by the laundry agent supply device (60) may not be performed smoothly. For example, in the case of the docking part (606) of the laundry agent container (601a, 601b) for docking with the laundry agent suction part (611), the laundry agent suction part (611) for sucking laundry agent from the laundry agent container (601a, 601b), or the laundry agent discharge part (612) for discharging laundry agent into the mixing channel (623), the laundry agent supply may not be performed smoothly if it becomes clogged by the laundry agent.

[0161] If the supply of laundry detergent by the laundry detergent supply device (60) is not performed smoothly, the washing performance may be reduced, so it is necessary to accurately determine whether the laundry detergent supply device (60) is clogged and ensure that normal laundry detergent supply is performed.

[0162] FIG. 8 is a control block diagram of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 8, the clothing processing device (1) may include various parts and / or devices and may include a control unit (300) electrically connected to the various parts and / or devices. The control unit (300) may include the aforementioned control circuit (16). For example, the control unit (300) may control a laundry agent supply device (60), a water supply device (40), a drying device (80), a drainage device (70), a circulation pump (210), and a flow path switching device (200). Additionally, the control unit (300) may control a turbidity sensor (171), a weight sensor (172), a user interface (15), and a communication interface (150).

[0164] The turbidity sensor (171) can detect the turbidity of the water stored in the tub (20). The turbidity of the water after the detergent is supplied may be higher than the turbidity of the water before the detergent is supplied.

[0165] A turbidity sensor (171) may be positioned on the lower side of the tub (20) to detect the turbidity of the water stored in the tub (20). For example, the turbidity sensor (171) may be positioned on the bottom surface of the tub (20) so that it can be submerged by the water stored in the tub (20) even if the water level in the tub (20) is low. Specifically, the turbidity sensor (171) may be positioned on the upper side of the tub connecting pipe (72) so that it can be submerged by the water stored in the tub (20) even if the water level in the tub (20) is low.

[0166] However, the placement of the turbidity sensor (171) is not limited thereto, and according to various embodiments, the turbidity sensor (171) may be placed in a position within the tub (20) where it can detect the turbidity of the water stored in the tub (20).

[0167] The turbidity sensor (171) may be a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) sensor, an optical turbidity sensor, an ultrasonic turbidity sensor, or a vibrating turbidity sensor, depending on the method of measuring the turbidity of the water.

[0168] Detecting water stored in the tub (20) by the turbidity sensor (171) may include the turbidity sensor (171) collecting turbidity data for the water stored in the tub (20). The turbidity sensor (171) may transmit the collected turbidity data to the control unit (300).

[0169] The weight sensor (172) can detect the weight of the laundry contained in the tub (20). The weight sensor (172) detecting the weight of the laundry may include collecting load data that the drum motor (36) consumes to rotate the drum (30). The weight sensor (172) can transmit to the control unit (300), and the control unit (300) can obtain the weight of the laundry contained in the tub (20) based on the load data.

[0170] However, the weight sensor (172) detecting the weight of the laundry contained in the tub (20) is not limited to this. For example, the weight of the laundry contained in the tub (20) can be implemented with various weight measuring sensors such as a load cell sensor, a piezoelectric sensor, etc.

[0171] The control unit (300) may include a processor (310) and a memory (320). The memory (320) may include volatile memory (e.g., S-RAM, D-RAM) and non-volatile memory (e.g., ROM, EEPROM). The processor (310) and the memory (320) may be implemented as separate chips or as a single chip. Additionally, a plurality of processors and a plurality of memories may be provided.

[0172] The processor (310) can process various data and various signals using instructions, data, programs and / or software stored in memory (320). The processor (310) may include one core or multiple cores. The processor (310) can generate control signals for controlling components of the clothing processing device (1).

[0173] The processor (310) may be configured to perform various operations of the clothing processing device (1). The processor (310) may perform operations of the clothing processing device (1) according to various embodiments by executing at least one instruction, algorithm, program and / or software stored in memory (320). The processor (310) may control one or any combination of the components of the clothing processing device (1).

[0174] The processor (310) may include various types of circuits. For example, the processor (310) may include one or more of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), MIC (Many Integrated Core), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), NPU (Neural Processing Unit), hardware accelerator, or machine learning accelerator.

[0175] The processor (310) can control various components of the garment processing device (1) to perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and / or drying operations. The processor (310) can be electrically connected to various parts and / or devices of the garment processing device (1) and can control various parts and / or devices.

[0176] For example, the processor (310) can control the user interface (15) to output various information regarding the operation of the clothing processing device (1). The user interface (15) can visually and / or audibly output information regarding the operation course, operation time, washing settings, rinsing settings, spin settings, and / or drying settings of the clothing processing device (1). Additionally, the user interface (15) can output information regarding abnormal status of the clothing processing device (1).

[0177] The user interface (15) may provide a user interface for the user and the clothing processing device (1) to interact. The user interface (15) may include at least one input interface (15a) and at least one output interface (15b). The user interface (15) may receive various user inputs and output various information regarding the operation of the clothing processing device (1).

[0178] The input interface (15a) may include various buttons and / or dials. For example, the input interface (15a) may include a power button, a start / stop button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash setting button, a rinse setting button, a spin setting button and / or a dry setting button.

[0179] The output interface (15b) can visually and / or audibly convey information related to the operation of the clothing processing device (1) to the user. The output interface (15b) can visually and / or audibly convey information related to the operation of the clothing processing device (1) to the user. Information regarding the operation of the clothing processing device (1) can be output as an image, text, an indicator, and / or voice. Additionally, the output interface (15b) can display a graphic user interface (GUI) that enables control of the clothing processing device (1). That is, the display can display UI elements such as icons.

[0180] The output interface (15b) may include at least one of a display and a speaker. The display may also be used as an input device, including a touch screen.

[0181] The processor (310) can control the operation of the clothing processing device (1) based on user input obtained through the user interface (15) or user device. For example, the control unit (300) can turn the clothing processing device (1) on or off based on user input for turning the clothing processing device (1) on or off. The control unit (300) can determine the operation course of the clothing processing device (1) based on user input for setting the operation course of the clothing processing device (1). The operation course of the clothing processing device (1) can be provided in various ways. For example, the operation course of the clothing processing device (1) can be broadly classified into a washing course and a drying course.

[0182] Washing courses may be provided in various ways depending on the type of laundry (e.g., clothing, bedding, underwear, etc.) and material (e.g., cotton, wool, nylon, etc.). For example, washing courses may include at least one of standard wash, heavy wash, delicate clothing wash, bedding wash, baby clothes wash, towel wash, boil wash, and dry cleaning. Each of the multiple washing courses may include different washing settings (e.g., wash temperature, number of rinses, spin intensity, etc.).

[0183] When one of a plurality of washing courses is selected through a user interface (15) or an external user device, the processor (310) can control the garment processing device (1) to perform a washing course, a rinsing course, and a spin-drying course corresponding to the selected washing course. Additionally, the washing course may include a rinsing and spin-drying course that does not include a washing course, a rinsing course, and a spin-drying course. The washing course is not limited to the examples provided. The washing course may also include a drying course.

[0184] Drying courses may also be provided in various ways depending on the type of object to be dried (e.g., clothing, bedding, underwear, etc.) and material (e.g., cotton, wool, nylon, etc.). For example, a drying course may include at least one of standard drying, heavy drying, delicate clothing drying, bedding drying, baby clothes drying, towel drying, and outdoor clothing drying. Each of the multiple drying courses may include different drying settings (e.g., drying temperature, drying time, etc.). When one of the multiple drying courses is selected via the user interface (15) or an external user device, the processor (310) may control the clothing processing device (1) to perform a drying process corresponding to the selected drying course. A drying course may be included as a drying process in a washing course. The drying courses are not limited to those exemplified.

[0185] A wash-dry course may be provided that is set to sequentially perform a wash cycle, a rinse cycle, a spin cycle, and a drying cycle.

[0186] The laundry agent supply device (60) can supply laundry agent to water supplied to the tub (20). The laundry agent supply device (60) can supply laundry agent by discharging laundry agent onto a mixing channel (623) through which water discharged from the tub connecting pipe (72) flows from the drainage device (70) to the circulation pump (210). For example, the laundry agent pump (610) of the laundry agent supply device (60) can suck up laundry agent stored in the laundry agent containers (601a, 601b) and then discharge the sucked laundry agent onto the mixing channel (623).

[0187] The control unit (300) can control the detergent supply device (60) to supply detergent to the water supplied to the tub (20).

[0188] For example, the control unit (300) can operate the laundry pump (610) by supplying a control signal to operate the laundry pump (610) of the laundry supply device (60).

[0189] The communication interface (150) may include various communication circuits for performing wired communication and / or wireless communication with an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or other home appliance). The communication interface (150) may correspond to the aforementioned communication module. The user device may include various electronic devices such as a smartphone, a notebook, a laptop, a smart watch, a stationary tablet, and a speaker. User input may be obtained through the user interface (15) as well as through the user device.

[0190] The water supply device (40) can selectively supply water to the tub (20) and the nozzle device (96). The water supply device (40) may include a water supply pipe (43, 44) connected to an external water source and a water supply valve (41, 42) that opens or closes the water supply pipe. The water supply device (40) may include a first water supply valve (41) and a second water supply valve (42). As previously described, the first water supply valve (41) may correspond to a hot water valve. The second water supply valve (42) may correspond to a cold water valve. The water supply pipes (43, 44) may include a first water supply pipe (43) corresponding to a hot water pipe and a second water supply pipe (44) corresponding to a cold water pipe.

[0191] The control unit (300) can control the opening and closing of the first water supply valve (41) and the second water supply valve (42), respectively. The control unit (300) can adjust the opening degree of the first water supply valve (41) and the second water supply valve (42), respectively. The first water supply valve (41) can open or close the first water supply pipe (43) based on an electrical signal transmitted from the control unit (300). The second water supply valve (42) can open or close the second water supply pipe (44) based on an electrical signal transmitted from the control unit (300).

[0192] The drying device (80) can remove moisture contained in the air, heat the air, and supply the heated air to the tub (20). The control unit (300) can operate the drying device (80) to dry laundry located inside the drum (30). The control unit (300) can control the drying device (80) to generate dry and heated air.

[0193] The control unit (300) can control the fan unit (100), compressor (91), and expansion valve included in the drying device (80). The control unit (300) can operate the fan unit (100) so that the dried and heated air is supplied into the drum (30). The control unit (300) can adjust the rotational speed of the fan unit (100). The flow rate of the air supplied into the drum (30) may vary depending on the rotational speed of the fan unit (100).

[0194] The compressor (91) compresses low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant and discharges it as high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. For example, the compressor (91) can compress the refrigerant through the reciprocating motion of a piston or the rotational motion of a rotor. The discharged gaseous refrigerant can be transferred to a condenser (92). The control unit (300) can adjust the operating frequency and / or rotational speed of the compressor (91). As the operating frequency and / or rotational speed of the compressor (91) increases, the heat released around the condenser (92) can increase.

[0195] The control unit (300) can control the opening of the expansion valve. The expansion valve may be provided as an electronic expansion valve in which the opening can be controlled by a capillary tube and an electrical signal to control the pressure of the liquid refrigerant. The low-temperature, low-pressure two-phase refrigerant passing through the expansion valve flows into the evaporator (93).

[0196] The drainage device (70) can discharge water inside the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10). The processor (310) can control the drainage device (70) so that water inside the tub (20) is discharged to the outside through the drain pipe (73). For example, the processor (310) can control a drainage pump (71) included in the drainage device (70).

[0197] The control unit (300) can control the circulation pump (210) to circulate water within the tub (20). Controlling the circulation pump (210) by the control unit (300) may include controlling the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210). Hereinafter, controlling the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) is described as controlling the circulation pump (210). Additionally, the operation of the pump motor (211) is described as the operation of the circulation pump (210).

[0198] When the circulation pump (210) operates, water is discharged from the tub (20), and the water discharged from the tub (20) can be returned to the tub (20) via the circulation pump (210). For example, when the circulation pump (210) operates, the water discharged from the tub (20) can be returned to the tub (20) via the tub connecting pipe (72), the drainage device (70), the laundry agent supply device (60), and the circulation pump (210).

[0199] The circulation pump (210) may have a predetermined load depending on the operation. The predetermined load of the circulation pump (210) may include a predetermined load resulting from the operation of the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210).

[0200] The circulation pump (210) can operate when a driving signal (e.g., driving voltage, driving current and / or driving power) is supplied. For example, when a driving signal is supplied to the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210), the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) can rotate at a predetermined number of revolutions per minute (RPM).

[0201] A predetermined load of the circulation pump (210) may be a value corresponding to a feedback current value, a feedback voltage value, and / or a feedback power value output according to the operation of the circulation pump (210). For example, the greater the feedback current value, the feedback voltage value, and / or the feedback power value generated by rotating the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) at the same rotational speed per minute (RPM), the greater the predetermined load of the circulation pump (210).

[0202] Specifically, when a driving signal is supplied to rotate the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) at a rotational speed of 1200 RPM per minute, the greater the feedback current value, feedback voltage value, and / or feedback power value output from the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210), the greater the load of the circulation pump (210).

[0203] The load of the circulation pump (210) according to the present disclosure is not limited thereto and can be determined by various methods. For example, when a driving signal is supplied to rotate at the same rotational speed per minute (RPM), the lower the rotational speed of the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210), the greater the load of the circulation pump (210). Additionally, when a driving signal is supplied to rotate at the same rotational speed per minute (RPM), the greater the rate of temperature rise of the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210), the greater the load of the circulation pump (210).

[0204] When the circulation pump (210) is in operation, the circulation pump (210) can transmit various values ​​(e.g., feedback current value, feedback voltage value and / or feedback power value, etc.) to the control unit (300) to obtain the load of the circulation pump (210). The control unit (300) can obtain the load of the circulation pump (210) from the various values ​​to obtain the load of the circulation pump (210).

[0205] The load of the circulation pump (210) may vary depending on the condition of the water circulating through the circulation pump (210). For example, the higher the viscosity of the water circulating through the circulation pump (210), the greater the load of the circulation pump (210). The viscosity of the water supplied with the detergent may be higher than the viscosity of the water before the detergent is supplied.

[0206] The flow switching device (220) can guide water discharged from the circulation pump (210) to the upper side of the diaphragm (22) or to the lower side of the tub (20). The flow switching device (220) can guide water discharged from the tub (20) through the circulation pump (210) to a first pipe (221) corresponding to the circulation path or a second pipe (222) corresponding to the bubble path. The first pipe (221) can connect the upper side of the diaphragm (22) to the flow switching device (220). The second pipe (222) can connect the lower side of the tub (20) to the flow switching device (220).

[0207] The control unit (300) can control the operation of the flow switching device (220). The flow switching device (220) can be turned on or off according to the control of the control unit (300). When the flow switching device (220) is operated, the first pipe (221) can be opened and the second pipe (222) can be closed. When the flow switching device (220) is operated, water can be guided to the first pipe (221). When the operation of the flow switching device (220) is stopped, water can be guided to the second pipe (222).

[0208] In other words, when the flow switching device (220) is turned on, water moves to the upper side of the diaphragm (22) through the first pipe (221), and water may not flow through the second pipe (222). When the flow switching device (220) is turned off, the flow of water through the first pipe (221) is blocked, and water may flow to the tub (20) through the second pipe (222).

[0209] The flow switching device (220) can be provided with various types of valves. For example, the flow switching device (220) may be a thermal actuator valve. The flow switching device (220) may consume power when in operation and may not consume power when operation is stopped.

[0210] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation course executed by a clothing processing device according to one embodiment.

[0211] Referring to FIG. 9, the garment processing device (1) can perform at least one of a washing process (1010), a rinsing process (1020), a spin-drying process (1030), and a drying process (1040) based on an operation course selected by a user. For example, the operation course of the garment processing device (1) can be determined as a standard washing course and a standard drying course. The standard washing course may include a washing process, a rinsing process, and a spin-drying process. The standard drying course may include a drying process. The garment processing device (1) can sequentially perform the washing process (1010), the rinsing process (1020), the spin-drying process (1030), and the drying process (1040).

[0212] The clothing processing device (1) may selectively perform at least one of a washing process (1010), a rinsing process (1020), a spin-drying process (1030), and a drying process (1040) according to the operation course. For example, the clothing processing device (1) may perform a rinsing process (1020) and a spin-drying process (1030) in response to the selection of a rinsing-spin-drying course. The clothing processing device (1) may perform a spin-drying process (1030) in response to the selection of a spin-drying course. The clothing processing device (1) may perform only a drying process (1040) in response to the selection of a standard drying course.

[0213] By washing the laundry (1010), the laundry can be washed. Specifically, foreign substances attached to the laundry can be separated by the chemical action of the laundry agent and / or mechanical action such as falling.

[0214] The washing process (1010) may include a washing measurement (1011) for measuring the amount of laundry, a water supply operation (1012) for supplying water to a tub (20), a washing operation (1013) for washing laundry by rotating a drum (30) at a low speed, a drainage operation (1014) for discharging water contained in the tub (20), and an intermediate spin-drying operation (1015) for separating water from laundry by rotating a drum (30) at a high speed.

[0215] The clothing processing device (1) may proceed with a predetermined process in the water supply operation (1012) of the washing process (1010) to determine whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged and to perform an operation according to whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged. Detailed information regarding the predetermined process will be described later in FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11.

[0216] For the washing operation (1013), the control unit (300) can control the drum motor (36) to rotate the drum motor (36) in a forward direction (e.g., clockwise) or a reverse direction (e.g., counterclockwise). As the drum (30) rotates, the laundry falls from the upper side to the lower side of the drum (30), and the laundry can be washed by falling.

[0217] While the water supply operation (1012) and washing operation (1013) are being performed, the control unit (300) can control the circulation pump (210) and the flow path switching device (220) so that the water in the tub (20) circulates through the first pipe (221) and / or the second pipe (222).

[0218] For intermediate dehydration (1015), the control unit (300) can control the drum motor (36) to rotate the drum motor (36) at a high speed. Due to the high-speed rotation of the drum (30), water can be separated from the laundry contained in the drum (30) and discharged outside the garment processing device (1).

[0219] The laundry can be rinsed by the rinsing process (1020). Specifically, detergent or foreign substances left on the laundry can be washed away by water.

[0220] The rinsing operation (1020) may include a water supply operation (1021) for supplying water to the tub (20), a rinsing operation (1022) for rinsing the laundry by driving the drum (30), a drainage operation (1023) for discharging the water contained in the tub (20), and an intermediate spin-drying operation (1024) for separating water from the laundry by driving the drum (30).

[0221] The water supply operation (1021), drainage operation (1023), and intermediate spin-drying (1024) of the rinsing operation (1020) may be identical to the water supply operation (1012), drainage operation (1014), and intermediate spin-drying (1015) of the washing operation (1010), respectively. During the rinsing operation (1020), the water supply operation (1021), rinsing operation (1022), drainage operation (1023), and intermediate spin-drying (1024) may be performed once or multiple times.

[0222] While the water supply operation (1021) and rinsing operation (1022) are being performed, the control unit (300) can control the circulation pump (210) and the flow path switching device (220) so that the water in the tub (20) circulates through the first pipe (221) and / or the second pipe (222).

[0223] The clothing processing device (1) may proceed with a predetermined process in the water supply operation (1021) of the rinsing operation (1020) to determine whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged and to perform an operation according to whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged. Detailed information regarding the predetermined process will be described later in FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11.

[0224] The detergent supplied to the water stored in the tub (20) during the water supply operation (1021) of the rinsing operation (1020) and the detergent supplied to the water stored in the tub (20) during the water supply operation (1012) of the washing operation (1010) may be different from each other.

[0225] For example, in the water supply operation (1012) of the laundry process (1010), the garment processing device (1) can control the laundry agent supply device (60) so that the laundry agent stored in the first laundry agent container (601a) (e.g., pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent) is supplied to the water stored in the tub (20).

[0226] On the other hand, in the water supply operation (1021) of the rinsing operation (1020), the garment processing device (1) can control the laundry agent supply device (60) so that the laundry agent (e.g., fabric softener) stored in the second laundry agent container (601b) is supplied to the water stored in the tub (20).

[0227] In each of the water supply operation (1012) of the washing process (1010) and the water supply operation (1021) of the rinsing process (1020), the clogging status of different laundry containers can be determined.

[0228] For example, in the water supply operation (1012) of the laundry administration (1010), the clothing processing device (1) may determine that the laundry agent stored in the first laundry agent container (601a) is not supplied normally from the first laundry agent container (601a) through the laundry agent pump (610) to the mixing path (623).

[0229] On the other hand, in the water supply operation (1021) of the rinsing operation (1020), the clothing processing device (1) can determine that the laundry agent stored in the second laundry agent container (601b) is not supplied normally from the second laundry agent container (601b) through the laundry agent pump (610) to the mixing path (623).

[0230] Laundry can be dehydrated by the dehydration process (1030). Specifically, water is separated from the laundry by the high-speed rotation of the drum (30), and the separated water can be discharged to the outside of the garment processing device (1).

[0231] The dehydration process (1030) may include a final dehydration process that separates water from the laundry by rotating the drum (30) at high speed. Due to the final dehydration, the last intermediate dehydration (1024) of the rinsing process (1020) may be omitted.

[0232] For the dehydration process (1030), the control unit (300) can rotate the drum motor (36) at a high speed. Due to the high-speed rotation of the drum (30), water can be separated from the laundry contained in the drum (30) and discharged outside the garment processing device (1). In addition, the rotation speed of the drum motor (36) can be increased in stages.

[0233] When the dehydration process (1030) is completed, the drying process (1040) can be performed. To perform the drying process (1040), the control unit (300) can operate the drying device (80) to supply hot air into the tub (20) and the drum (30). Additionally, the control unit (300) can rotate the drum (30) at a relatively low speed. The control unit (300) can supply hot air into the tub (20) and the drum (30) by operating the drying device (80).

[0234] When the drying process (1040) is completed, the operation of the clothing processing device (1) is stopped and the power can be turned off.

[0235] The drying process (1040) can be performed for a time corresponding to the operation time set by the user and / or the course selected by the user.

[0236] In one embodiment, the drying process (1040) may be terminated when it is determined that the laundry contained in the drum (30) is completely dried.

[0237] FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11 are flowcharts illustrating a control method of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment.

[0238] Referring to FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11, a predetermined process for determining whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged and performing an operation according to whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged will be described below. The predetermined process described below can be performed in the water supply operation (1012) in the washing process (1010) of FIG. 9 and the water supply operation (1021) in the rinsing process (1020).

[0239] Referring to FIG. 10, the control unit (300) can control the water supply device (40) to supply water to the tub (20) (1100). For example, the control unit (300) can open the water supply valves (41, 42) to supply water to the tub (20).

[0240] In the operation of 1100, the control unit (300) can control the water supply device (40) to supply water to the tub (20) so that the water level stored in the tub (20) reaches only up to a predetermined water level. For example, the control unit (300) can control the water supply device (40) to supply water to the tub (20) so that the water level reaches only up to a water level where the turbidity sensor (171) placed in the tub (20) is submerged.

[0241] If the water level stored in the tub (20) is higher than a predetermined water level, the water stored in the tub (20) may be mixed with the laundry, and accurate turbidity detection may not be performed due to contaminants in the laundry. Therefore, in one embodiment, in the case of operation of 1100, the control unit (300) can supply water so that the water level stored in the tub (20) becomes such that only the turbidity sensor (171) is submerged and the water stored in the tub (20) is not mixed with the laundry.

[0242] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) can drive the circulation pump (210) for a first period after supplying water to the tub (20) (1200). For example, the control unit (300) can supply a driving signal to the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) for a first period after supplying water to the tub (20) to rotate the pump motor (211) at a predetermined rotational speed per minute (RPM).

[0243] The control unit (300) can obtain a first load of the circulation pump (210) by driving the circulation pump (210) during a first period. For example, the control unit (300) can obtain a first load of the circulation pump (210) based on the feedback current value, feedback voltage value, and / or feedback power value output from the pump motor (211) by rotating the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) at a predetermined rotational speed (RPM) during a first period. Specifically, the control unit (300) can determine that the first load of the circulation pump (210) is greater the greater the feedback current value, feedback voltage value, and / or feedback power value output from the pump motor (211) by rotating the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) at a predetermined rotational speed (RPM) during a first period.

[0244] The first load of the circulation pump (210) obtained during the first period may be the load obtained by operating the circulation pump (210) in a state where the water stored in the tub (20) is not mixed with the detergent.

[0245] When the circulation pump (210) is operated during the first period, water discharged from the tub (20) can be circulated back to the tub (20) through the second pipe (222) by the operation of the circulation pump (210).

[0246] The control unit (300) can obtain a first turbidity value of water stored in the tub (20) during a first period. For example, the control unit (300) can receive turbidity data collected by the turbidity sensor (171) during the first period and obtain a first turbidity value using the received turbidity data.

[0247] According to the present disclosure, obtaining a first load of the circulation pump (210) and a first turbidity value of the water stored in the tub (20) can be performed sequentially. For example, the control unit (300) may obtain a first load of the circulation pump (210) by operating the circulation pump (210) after obtaining a first turbidity value of the water stored in the tub (20) during a first period. As another example, the control unit (300) may obtain a first load of the circulation pump (210) by operating the circulation pump (210) during a first period, and then obtain a first turbidity value of the water stored in the tub (20).

[0248] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) can control the laundry agent supply device (60) so that the laundry agent is supplied after a first period (1300). For example, the control unit (300) obtains a first turbidity value of water stored in the tub (20) and a first load of the circulation pump (210) during the first period, and when the first period has elapsed, controls the laundry agent pump (610) of the laundry agent supply device (60) to supply the laundry agent to the mixing channel (623).

[0249] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) can drive the circulation pump (210) for a second period after supplying the laundry agent (1400). For example, the control unit (300) can supply a driving signal to the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) for a second period after supplying the laundry agent through the laundry agent supply device (60), thereby rotating the pump motor (211) at a predetermined rotational speed per minute (RPM).

[0250] The control unit (300) can obtain a second load of the circulation pump (210) by driving the circulation pump (210) during a second period. For example, the control unit (300) can obtain a second load of the circulation pump (210) based on the feedback current value, feedback voltage value, and / or feedback power value output from the pump motor (211) by rotating the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) at a predetermined rotational speed (RPM) during the second period. Specifically, the control unit (300) can determine that the second load of the circulation pump (210) is greater the greater the feedback current value, feedback voltage value, and / or feedback power value output from the pump motor (211) by rotating the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) at a predetermined rotational speed (RPM) during the second period.

[0251] During the second period, as the circulation pump (210) operates, the laundry agent supplied to the mixing channel (623) and the water discharged from the tub (20) can be mixed and supplied into the interior of the tub (20) through the second pipe (222). That is, as the circulation pump (210) operates during the second period, the water stored in the tub (20) may be water mixed with laundry agent.

[0252] The second load of the circulation pump (210) obtained during the second period may be the load obtained by operating the circulation pump (210) while the water stored in the tub (20) is mixed with the detergent. Meanwhile, if the supply of detergent is not performed normally because the detergent supply device (60) is clogged, the second load of the circulation pump (210) obtained during the second period may be the load obtained by operating the circulation pump (210) while the water stored in the tub (20) is not mixed with detergent or is not mixed with an appropriate amount of detergent.

[0253] The control unit (300) can obtain a second turbidity value of water stored in the tub (20) during a second period. For example, the control unit (300) can receive turbidity data collected by the turbidity sensor (171) during the second period and obtain a second turbidity value using the received turbidity data.

[0254] According to the present disclosure, obtaining a second load of the circulation pump (210) and a second turbidity value of the water stored in the tub (20) can be performed sequentially. For example, the control unit (300) can obtain a second load of the circulation pump (210) by operating the circulation pump (210) during the second period, and then obtain a second turbidity value of the water stored in the tub (20). That is, water mixed with a detergent can be stored in the tub (20) by the operation of the circulation pump (210) during the second period, and a second turbidity value can be obtained in the state where the water stored in the tub (20) is mixed with a detergent.

[0255] The control unit (300) can control the circulation pump (210) to be the same as the predetermined rotational speed (RPM) per minute at which the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) is rotated during the first period and the predetermined rotational speed (RPM) at which the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) is rotated during the second period. That is, by supplying a driving signal to the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) to rotate at the same rotational speed (RPM) per minute, the load of the circulation pump (210) (first load and second load) can be obtained during each of the first period and the second period.

[0256] Referring to FIG. 11, in various embodiments, the control unit (300) can determine whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged based on the difference between the first load of the circulation pump (210) measured in the first period and the second load of the circulation pump (210) measured in the second period.

[0257] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) may determine that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged based on the difference between the first load of the circulation pump (210) measured in the first period and the second load of the circulation pump (210) measured in the second period being less than the reference load (Example of 1500 and 1520).

[0258] The first load of the circulation pump (210) measured in the first period may be the load obtained by circulating water in a state where no detergent is mixed.

[0259] The second load of the circulation pump (210) measured in the second period may be the load obtained by circulating water mixed with a laundry agent.

[0260] If the viscosity of the water circulated by the circulation pump (210) is high, the load of the circulation pump (210) may increase. For example, by rotating the pump motor (211) of the circulation pump (210) at a predetermined rotational speed per minute (RPM), the feedback current value, feedback voltage value, and / or feedback power value output from the pump motor (211) may be higher when circulating water mixed with a detergent.

[0261] Accordingly, when the laundry agent is supplied normally through the laundry agent supply device (60), the difference between the first load of the circulation pump (210) measured in the first period and the second load of the circulation pump (210) measured in the second period may be greater than the reference load.

[0262] On the other hand, if the laundry agent is not supplied normally through the laundry agent supply device (60), the difference between the first load of the circulation pump (210) measured in the first period and the second load of the circulation pump (210) measured in the second period may be less than the reference load.

[0263] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) can determine whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged based on a first turbidity value of water stored in the tub (20) measured in a first period and a second turbidity value of water stored in the tub (20) measured in a second period.

[0264] For example, the control unit (300) may determine that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged based on the fact that the first turbidity value measured in the first period and the second turbidity value measured in the second period are less than the reference turbidity value.

[0265] The first turbidity value measured during the first period may be the turbidity value of water stored in the tub (20) in a state where the detergent is not mixed.

[0266] The second turbidity value measured in the second period may be the turbidity value of the water stored in the tub (20) in a state where the detergent is mixed.

[0267] If the water stored in the tub (20) is mixed with a detergent, the turbidity value measured by the turbidity sensor (171) may increase.

[0268] Accordingly, when the detergent is supplied normally through the detergent supply device (60), the difference between the first turbidity value measured in the first period and the second turbidity value measured in the second period may be greater than or equal to the reference turbidity value.

[0269] On the other hand, if the detergent is not supplied normally through the detergent supply device (60), the difference between the first turbidity value measured in the first period and the second turbidity value measured in the second period may be less than the reference turbidity value.

[0270] The control unit (300) can adjust the amount of laundry supplied from the laundry supply device (60) based on the weight of the laundry contained in the tub (20). For example, the control unit (300) can reduce the amount of laundry supplied from the laundry supply device (60) as the weight of the laundry contained in the tub (20) becomes lighter.

[0271] The difference between the first turbidity value measured in the first period and the second turbidity value measured in the second period may vary depending on the amount of detergent supplied from the detergent supply device (60). For example, the smaller the amount of detergent supplied from the detergent supply device (60), the smaller the difference between the first turbidity value measured in the first period and the second turbidity value measured in the second period may be.

[0272] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) may determine a reference turbidity value based on the weight of the laundry contained in the tub (20). For example, the control unit (300) may reduce the supply amount of detergent and determine a smaller reference turbidity value as the weight of the laundry measured in the laundry measurement (1011) of the washing process (1010) becomes lighter. That is, even if a relatively small amount of detergent is supplied normally because the weight of the laundry contained in the tub (20) is relatively light, if the reference turbidity value is large, the difference between the first turbidity value and the second turbidity value may be less than the reference turbidity value, so it may not be possible to accurately determine whether the detergent supply device (60) is clogged. Therefore, according to the present disclosure, by adjusting the supply amount of detergent according to the weight of the laundry contained in the tub (20) and determining the reference turbidity value accordingly, it is possible to determine more accurately whether the detergent supply device (60) is clogged.

[0273] Hereinafter, the first load measured in the first period is described as the first load, the second load measured in the second period is described as the second load, the first turbidity value measured in the first period is described as the first turbidity value, and the second turbidity value measured in the second period is described as the second turbidity value.

[0274] In various embodiments, the control unit (300) can determine whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged based on the difference between the first load and the second load and / or the difference between the first turbidity value and the second turbidity value.

[0275] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) determines that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged based on the difference between the first load and the second load being less than the reference load (Example of 1500 and 1520), but may determine that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged based on the difference between the first turbidity value and the second turbidity value being less than the reference turbidity value even if the difference between the first load and the second load is greater than or equal to the reference load (No of 1500, Example of 1510 and 1520).

[0276] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) may determine that the laundry agent supply device (60) is not clogged based on the fact that the difference between the first load and the second load is greater than or equal to the reference load and the difference between the first turbidity value and the second turbidity value is greater than or equal to the reference turbidity value (No of 1500, No of 1510 and 1530).

[0277] According to various embodiments not limited to those illustrated in FIG. 11, the control unit (300) may determine whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged based on the difference between the first load and the second load and / or the difference between the first turbidity value and the second turbidity value.

[0278] For example, the control unit (300) determines that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged based on the difference between the first turbidity value and the second turbidity value being less than the reference turbidity value, but can also determine that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged based on the difference between the first load and the second load being less than the reference load even if the difference between the first turbidity value and the second turbidity value is greater than or equal to the reference turbidity value.

[0279] As another example, the control unit (300) may determine that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged based on the difference between the first load and the second load being less than the reference load and the difference between the first turbidity value and the second turbidity value being less than the reference turbidity value.

[0280] That is, if the difference between the first load and the second load is defined as being less than the reference load and the difference between the first turbidity value and the first turbidity value is defined as being less than the reference turbidity value, the control unit (300) can determine that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged even if only one of the first condition and the second condition is satisfied, and can determine that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged when both the first condition and the second condition are satisfied.

[0281] In one embodiment, if the control unit (300) determines that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged, it may announce the clogging of the laundry agent supply device (60) (1540).

[0282] A clogging notification of the laundry detergent dispenser (60) may be provided through at least one of the output interface (15b) of the user interface (15) and the user device. The clogging notification of the laundry detergent dispenser (60) may include providing a notification display and voice that can indicate that the laundry detergent dispenser (60) is clogged. Additionally, the clogging notification of the laundry detergent dispenser (60) may include providing a notification display and voice to guide cleaning of the laundry detergent dispenser (60).

[0283] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) may perform a washing operation (1013) or a rinsing operation (1022) if it does not receive a command to execute a cleaning operation for a predetermined period of time after notifying a blockage of the laundry agent supply device (60) (No and 1560 of 1550).

[0284] For example, in the case of a laundry operation (1010), if the control unit (300) determines that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged, it announces the clogging of the laundry agent supply device (60) for a predetermined period of time, and if it does not receive a command to execute a cleaning operation for a predetermined period of time, it can perform a laundry operation (1013) after a predetermined period of time has elapsed.

[0285] In another example, in the case of a rinsing operation (1010), if the control unit (300) determines that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged, it announces the clogging of the laundry agent supply device (60) for a predetermined time, and if it does not receive a command to execute a cleaning operation for a predetermined time, it can perform a rinsing operation (1022) after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0286] The cleaning process may include a process for removing blockages in the laundry agent supply device (60). For example, the cleaning process may include a process for removing blockages in the laundry agent supply device (60) by driving the circulation pump (210) to a preset maximum RPM to increase the amount of water flowing through the mixing channel (623).

[0287] The preset maximum RPM may include the maximum RPM at which the circulation pump (210) can be driven to its maximum operating specifications.

[0288] If a command to execute a cleaning operation is not received for a predetermined period of time after announcing that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged, an additional water supply operation may be performed before performing a washing operation (1013) or a rinsing operation (1022). For example, when supplying water to the tub (20) (e.g., 1100 or 1021 in FIG. 10) to determine whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged, water is supplied up to a water level sufficient to submerge the turbidity sensor (171), and if a command to execute a cleaning operation is not received for a predetermined period of time, the water supply device (40) is controlled to supply additional water in order to perform a washing operation (1013) or a rinsing operation (1022), and then the washing operation (1013) or a rinsing operation (1022) may be performed.

[0289] The control unit (300) can determine whether the different laundry containers are clogged during the water supply operation (1012) of the washing process (1010) and the water supply operation (1021) of the rinsing process (1020), respectively.

[0290] For example, the control unit (300) can control the laundry agent supply device (60) so that the laundry agent stored in the first laundry agent container (601a) is supplied during the water supply operation (1012) of the laundry administration (1010), and can determine whether the first laundry agent container (601a) is clogged.

[0291] In another example, the control unit (300) can control the detergent supply device (60) so that the detergent stored in the second detergent container (601b) is supplied during the water supply operation (1021) of the rinsing operation (1020), and can determine whether the second detergent container (601b) is clogged.

[0292] In one embodiment, when the control unit (300) determines that the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged, it announces the clogging of the laundry agent supply device (60), and after announcing the clogging of the laundry agent supply device (60), if it receives a command to execute a cleaning operation for a predetermined period of time, it can perform a cleaning operation (Example of 1550 and 1570).

[0293] The execution command for cleaning administration may include an execution command generated by the user selecting the execution of cleaning administration through the user interface (15).

[0294] In accordance with the present disclosure, performing a cleaning administration when a command to execute a cleaning administration is received for a predetermined period of time is not limited thereto. For example, when the control unit (300) receives a command to execute a cleaning administration for a predetermined period of time, it may perform a cleaning administration in which the circulation pump (210) is driven at a preset maximum RPM after the washing-drying course is completed.

[0295] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) can perform a washing operation (1013) or a rinsing operation (1022) when it is determined that the laundry agent supply device (60) is not clogged (1530 and 1560). That is, when the control unit (300) determines that the laundry agent supply device (60) is not clogged, it can immediately perform a washing operation (1013) or a rinsing operation (1022) without notifying the clogging of the laundry agent supply device (60) for a predetermined period of time.

[0296] In one embodiment, the control unit (300) drives the circulation pump (210) during a washing operation (1013) or a rinsing operation (1022), and can control the circulation pump (210) such that the maximum operating RPM of the circulation pump (210) during the washing operation (1013) or the rinsing operation (1022) is greater than the maximum operating RPM of the circulation pump (210) during the first period and the second period.

[0297] In order to determine whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged, it is necessary to set the operating RPM of the circulation pump (210) to a relatively low level. If the operating RPM of the circulation pump (210) is set to a relatively high level to determine whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged, a false detection may occur during the process of acquiring the load to determine whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged. Therefore, according to the present disclosure, by setting the operating RPM of the circulation pump (210) to a relatively low level during the process of determining whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged compared to the washing operation (1013) or the rinsing operation (1022), it is possible to determine whether the laundry agent supply device (60) is clogged more accurately.

[0298] 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.

[0299] 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.

[0300] Additionally, computer-readable recording media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. Here, 'non-transitory storage media' simply means that it is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily. For example, 'non-transitory storage media' may include a buffer in which data is stored temporarily.

[0301] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or distributed online (e.g., download or upload) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily created on a device-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0302] 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. Tub; A water supply device for supplying water to the above tub; A circulation pump for circulating water within the above tub; A detergent supply device that supplies a detergent to water circulating by the operation of the above-mentioned circulation pump; and Control the water supply device to supply water to the above tub, and After the above water supply, the circulation pump is driven during the first period, and Control the detergent supply device to supply the detergent after the above circulation pump is driven, and After supplying the above laundry agent, the circulation pump is driven for a second period, and A clothing processing device comprising: a control unit that determines whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on the difference between the first load of the circulation pump measured in the first period and the second load of the circulation pump measured in the second period.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that determines that the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on the difference between the first load and the second load being less than the reference load.

3. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a turbidity sensor that detects the turbidity of water stored in the tub; The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that determines whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on the difference between a first turbidity value measured by the turbidity sensor in the first period and a second turbidity value measured by the turbidity sensor in the second period.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that determines that the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on at least one of the following: the difference between the first load and the second load is less than the reference load, or the difference between the first turbidity value and the second turbidity value is less than the reference turbidity value.

5. In Paragraph 4, The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that determines the standard turbidity value based on the weight of the laundry contained in the tub.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above control unit is, A clothing processing device that determines a smaller standard turbidity value as the weight of the laundry contained in the tub is smaller.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit is, If it is determined that the above detergent supply device is not clogged, a washing operation or a rinsing operation is performed, and The circulation pump is driven during the washing operation or the rinsing operation, A clothing processing device in which the maximum operating RPM of the circulation pump during the washing operation or the rinsing operation is greater than the maximum operating RPM of the circulation pump during the first period and the second period.

8. In Paragraph 1, Including a user interface; further The above control unit is, If it is determined that the above laundry detergent supply device is clogged, a notice regarding the clogging of the above laundry detergent supply device is provided through the above user interface, and A garment processing device that performs a washing operation or a rinsing operation when a command to execute a cleaning operation is not received for a predetermined period of time after providing a notice regarding the blockage of the above-mentioned laundry agent supply device through the above-mentioned user interface.

9. In Paragraph 1, Including a user interface; further The above control unit is, If it is determined that the above laundry detergent supply device is clogged, a notice regarding the clogging of the above laundry detergent supply device is provided through the above user interface, and A clothing processing device that performs a cleaning process by driving the circulation pump at a preset RPM when a command to execute a cleaning process is received within a predetermined time after providing a notice regarding the blockage of the above-mentioned laundry agent supply device through the above-mentioned user interface.

10. A control method for a clothing processing device comprising a tub, a water supply device for supplying water to the tub, a circulation pump for circulating water within the tub, and a laundry agent supply device for supplying a laundry agent to the water circulated by the operation of the circulation pump, A step of controlling the water supply device to supply water to the above tub; A step of driving the circulation pump during a first period after the above water supply; A step of controlling the detergent supply device to supply the detergent after the operation of the circulation pump; A step of driving the circulation pump for a second period after supplying the above-mentioned detergent; and A method for controlling a garment processing device comprising the step of determining whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on the difference between the first load of the circulation pump measured in the first period and the second load of the circulation pump measured in the second period.

11. In Paragraph 10, The step of determining whether the above-mentioned laundry agent supply device is clogged is: A control method for a clothing processing device comprising the step of determining that the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on the difference between the first load and the second load being less than a reference load.

12. In Paragraph 10, The above clothing processing device is, It further includes a turbidity sensor that detects the turbidity of water stored in the tub; The step of determining whether the above-mentioned laundry agent supply device is clogged is: A method for controlling a garment processing device, further comprising the step of determining whether the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on the difference between a first turbidity value measured by the turbidity sensor in the first period and a second turbidity value measured by the turbidity sensor in the second period.

13. In Paragraph 12, The step of determining whether the above-mentioned laundry agent supply device is clogged is: A method for controlling a clothing processing device comprising the step of determining that the laundry agent supply device is clogged based on at least one of the difference between the first load and the second load being less than a reference load or the difference between the first turbidity value and the second turbidity value being less than a reference turbidity value.

14. In Paragraph 10, If it is determined that the above laundry agent supply device is clogged, a step of providing guidance regarding the clogging of the above laundry agent supply device through a user interface; and A control method for a garment processing device further comprising the step of performing a washing operation or a rinsing operation when a command to execute a cleaning operation is not received for a predetermined period of time after providing a notice regarding the blockage of the above-mentioned laundry agent supply device through the above-mentioned user interface.

15. In Paragraph 10, If it is determined that the above laundry agent supply device is clogged, a step of providing guidance regarding the clogging of the above laundry agent supply device through a user interface; and A control method for a garment processing device further comprising the step of performing the cleaning process by driving the circulation pump at a preset RPM when a command to execute the cleaning process is received within a predetermined time after providing a notice regarding the blockage of the above-mentioned laundry agent supply device through the above-mentioned user interface.

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