Clothes treatment apparatus and clothes treatment apparatus control method

Abstract

The present invention provides a clothes treatment apparatus having a nozzle structure through which water can be sprayed to a heavily contaminated area of an evaporator in a greater amount per unit area, at a higher speed, or at a higher pressure than to other areas, wherein the water can be intensively supplied to the heavily contaminated area for a longer period of time than to the other areas.

Description

Clothing processing device and control method of clothing processing device

[0001] The present invention relates to a clothing processing device and a control method thereof. The invention relates to a clothing processing device and a control method thereof that uses a heat pump system, such as an evaporator and a condenser, to dry clothing, and is capable of cleaning said evaporator, etc.

[0002] A dryer is a garment processing device that supplies hot air to garments contained in a drum and rotates the drum to evenly expose the hot air to the garments, thereby performing a drying process to remove moisture from the garments. Recently, a garment processing device capable of simultaneously performing a drying process and a washing process to remove foreign substances from the garments using water and detergent has also appeared.

[0003] Conventional clothing processing devices that perform a drying process may include a circulating dryer that condenses and reheats air containing moisture evaporated from clothing by hot air, and then circulates it back to the drum. Such a circulating dryer had the advantage of not changing external humidity and temperature even when performing a drying process.

[0004] Since such a circulating dryer must cool and reheat the air discharged from the drum, it includes a heat pump system containing multiple heat exchangers such as an evaporator and a condenser. Although the evaporator and condenser can perform heat exchange with the passing air, they are inevitably exposed to foreign substances, such as lint, contained in the air discharged from the drum.

[0005] In particular, since the evaporator is configured to allow the air discharged from the drum to heat exchange first, it is a configuration where the most foreign substances, such as lint from clothing discharged from the drum, accumulate.

[0006] If foreign substances accumulate in the evaporator, it not only hinders the heat exchange between the evaporator and the air, thereby reducing drying performance, but also causes problems by obstructing or blocking the flow of air passing through the evaporator. In addition, if foreign substances are left accumulated in the evaporator for a long time, serious problems may arise in which the foreign substances decompose and contaminate the clothing contained in the drum through the hot air flowing into the drum.

[0007] Recently, a clothing processing device has appeared that includes a washing unit for washing foreign substances accumulated in the above-mentioned evaporator using an external water source or condensate. (See Korean Published Patent Application No. 10-2021-0139899 and Korean Published Patent Application No. 10-2016-0001189)

[0008] This garment processing device was capable of cleaning foreign substances from the evaporator and the duct in which it is installed by discharging an external water source and condensate through a nozzle positioned above the evaporator. In particular, the garment processing device had the advantage of being able to clean the evaporator whenever necessary by being equipped with a nozzle positioned to extend in the width direction of the evaporator to spray water across the entire area of ​​the evaporator.

[0009] However, the circulation duct, which is positioned outside the drum to move air and accommodate the evaporator and condenser, is positioned off-center from the center of the cabinet, or the location of the air discharge outlet or the fan generating the airflow is eccentrically positioned on one side of the circulation duct. As a result, the air does not move evenly across the entire cross-sectional direction (width direction) of the circulation duct, but rather moves intensively toward one of the two sides of the circulation duct.

[0010] As a result, the evaporator area adjacent to one side of the circulation duct is exposed to a larger amount of air than the remaining area of ​​the evaporator adjacent to the other side of the circulation duct, and consequently, more foreign matter may accumulate and become contaminated.

[0011] Nevertheless, conventional clothing processing devices focused on supplying washing water to the entire area extending from one side to the other of the evaporator, which had a problem in that they could not supply a sufficient amount of water necessary for removing foreign substances to the side of the evaporator that was particularly heavily contaminated.

[0012] In addition, conventional clothing processing devices were equipped to supply water simultaneously to the entire evaporator through a single nozzle extended in the width direction of the evaporator, which resulted in a problem where water could not be sprayed intensively to each area of ​​the evaporator.

[0013] Therefore, although conventional clothing processing devices are equipped with nozzles that spray water onto the evaporator, there was a fundamental problem in that water necessary to remove foreign substances was not sufficiently supplied to specific areas of the evaporator, resulting in the foreign substances not only failing to be removed but also continuing to accumulate and grow over time, potentially leading to decay caused by the supplied water.

[0014] Meanwhile, a clothing processing device equipped with multiple nozzles that alternately spray water by dividing specific areas of the evaporator has also appeared. (Refer to Korean Registered Patent Publication No. 10-1806241) This clothing processing device had the advantage of being able to intensively supply washing water to each area of ​​the evaporator by spraying the supplied water intensively through one of the multiple nozzles.

[0015] However, the garment processing device in question merely concentrated water supply by partitioning the evaporator equally along the width direction; due to the circulation duct structure and fan placement, it was unable to supply water more intensively to heavily contaminated areas than to others, resulting in a fundamental problem where it was still unable to prevent the accumulation of foreign substances and contamination in those areas.

[0016] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device capable of cleaning foreign substances more intensively in a specific area of ​​the evaporator through which more air passes than in the remaining areas.

[0017] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device capable of spraying washing water more intensively in a specific area of ​​an evaporator where foreign matter accumulation or contamination may easily occur, compared to the rest of the area.

[0018] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device capable of washing a specific area of ​​an evaporator, where foreign matter accumulation or contamination may easily occur, with a larger amount of water than the rest of the area.

[0019] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing processing device capable of washing a specific area of ​​an evaporator, where foreign matter accumulation or contamination may easily occur, with water at a higher pressure than the rest of the area.

[0020] The present invention aims to solve the problem of providing a clothing treatment device capable of spraying water more densely than the rest of the area in which foreign substances may easily accumulate or contaminate during evaporation.

[0021] To solve the above-mentioned problem, the present invention provides a clothing processing device having a nozzle structure capable of spraying a larger amount of water per unit area, spraying water faster, or spraying water at a higher pressure in an area of ​​the evaporator where severe contamination occurs compared to other areas.

[0022] To solve the aforementioned problem, the present invention provides a clothing treatment device capable of supplying water intensively for a longer period to an area of ​​the evaporator where contamination occurs severely than to other areas.

[0023] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a cabinet having an opening at the front, a drum receiving clothing introduced into the opening, a circulation duct forming a flow path through which air inside the drum circulates from the outside, a heat exchanger comprising an evaporator cooling the air moving through the circulation duct and a condenser heating the air passing through the evaporator, a circulation fan providing power to move the air, and a supply nozzle arranged in the width direction of the evaporator to spray water supplied from an external water source onto the evaporator.

[0024] In the above circulation duct, a flow path deflection region may be formed on one of the two sides, such that at least one of the flow rate, hydraulic pressure, or flow velocity is greater than on the other side depending on the rotation direction of the impeller.

[0025] The above supply nozzle may be configured to spray a larger amount of water per unit area into the area adjacent to the one side than into the area adjacent to the other side.

[0026] The above circulation fan further includes a motor that rotates the impeller and a fan shaft that connects the motor and the impeller, and the one side may be positioned in a direction extending from the fan shaft toward the center of the evaporator among the two sides of the circulation duct.

[0027] The above-mentioned one side may be positioned in the area facing the direction in which the impeller rotates so as to move closer to the fan axis among the two sides of the circulation duct.

[0028] The above circulation duct may include a movable duct in which the evaporator and the condenser are installed, an inlet duct through which air flows from the drum into the movable duct, and an outlet duct through which air is discharged from the movable duct to the drum.

[0029] The above-mentioned one-sided surface corresponds to one-sided surface of the movable duct positioned in a direction that rotates toward the discharge duct on the outer surface of the impeller relative to the fan axis, or can be defined as one-sided surface of the movable duct.

[0030] The above impeller can be positioned between the inlet duct and the moving duct.

[0031] The above supply nozzle includes a nozzle body arranged in the width direction of the evaporator and a plurality of spray holes that discharge water by penetrating the nozzle body, and the number of spray holes per unit area adjacent to one side may be formed to be greater than the number of spray holes per unit area adjacent to the other side.

[0032] The total area per unit area of ​​the injection hole adjacent to the above-mentioned side can be formed to be wider than the total area per unit area of ​​the injection hole adjacent to the other-mentioned side.

[0033] The above supply nozzle may include a first flow path section comprising a first injection path extending from one side of the evaporator toward the other side, a plurality of first injection holes for injecting water moving through the first injection path into the evaporator, and a first connecting pipe for supplying water from an external water supply source to the first injection path; and a second flow path section comprising a second injection path extending from the other side of the evaporator toward the first injection path, a plurality of second injection holes for injecting water moving through the second injection path into the evaporator, and a second connecting pipe for supplying water from an external water supply source to the second injection path.

[0034] The number of the first injection holes per unit area may be greater than the number of the second injection holes per unit area.

[0035] The spacing of the first injection holes may be arranged more narrowly than the spacing of the second injection holes.

[0036] The diameter of the first injection hole and the diameter of the second injection hole can be formed to be the same as each other.

[0037] The diameter of each of the first injection holes may be formed to be smaller than the diameter of each of the second injection holes.

[0038] The length of the first injection path may be formed to be shorter than the length of the second injection path.

[0039] The length of the first injection path can be set to be the same as the length of the second injection path.

[0040] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a water supply valve coupled to the cabinet and supplying water from an external water source to the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe.

[0041] The above water supply valve can be controlled to supply water to the first connecting pipe for a longer period than to the second connecting pipe.

[0042] The above water supply valve can be controlled to alternately supply water to the first connecting pipe for a first time and supply water to the second connecting pipe for a second time shorter than the first time.

[0043] The above circulation fan may further include a motor that rotates the impeller and a fan shaft that connects the motor and the impeller.

[0044] The supply nozzle may be provided to spray a larger amount of water per unit area in an area adjacent to one side of the circulation duct that is positioned in the direction extending from the fan axis toward the center of the evaporator, than in an area adjacent to the other side facing the one side.

[0045] The number of injection holes per unit area or the total area of ​​injection holes per unit area adjacent to one end of the supply nozzle may be formed to be larger than the number of injection holes per unit area or the total area of ​​injection holes per unit area adjacent to the other end of the supply nozzle.

[0046] The spacing of the first injection holes may be arranged more narrowly than the spacing of the second injection holes.

[0047] The diameter of the first injection hole and the diameter of the second injection hole can be formed to be the same as each other.

[0048] The diameter of the first injection hole can be formed to be smaller than the diameter of the second injection hole.

[0049] The length of the first injection path may be formed to be shorter than the length of the second injection path.

[0050] The number of the first injection holes and the number of the second injection holes can be formed to be the same.

[0051] The number of the first injection holes can be formed to be smaller than the number of the second injection holes.

[0052] The length of the first injection path can be set to be the same as the length of the second injection path.

[0053] The number of the first injection holes can be formed to be greater than the number of the second injection holes.

[0054] The present invention has the effect of cleaning foreign substances more intensively in a specific area of ​​the evaporator through which more air passes than in the remaining areas.

[0055] The present invention has the effect of spraying cleaning water more intensively in specific areas of the evaporator where foreign matter accumulation or contamination may easily occur, compared to the remaining areas.

[0056] The present invention has the effect of being able to clean specific areas of an evaporator where foreign matter accumulation or contamination may easily occur with a larger amount of water than the rest of the area.

[0057] The present invention has the effect of being able to wash specific areas of an evaporator where foreign matter accumulation or contamination may easily occur with water at a higher water pressure than the rest of the area.

[0058] The present invention has the effect of spraying water more densely in specific areas of an evaporator where foreign matter accumulation or contamination may easily occur than in the remaining areas.

[0059] FIG. 1 illustrates the exterior of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 2 briefly illustrates the internal structure of one embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the internal components constituting the clothing processing device of the present invention separated from each other.

[0062] FIG. 4 illustrates the base structure of an embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0063] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a configuration installed in the device installation part of an embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates a state in which the base of an embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention is viewed from one side of the front.

[0064] FIG. 7 illustrates a water supply path of one embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0065] FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment in which the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a washing machine with a drying function.

[0066] FIG. 9 illustrates the arrangement of the circulation duct and heat exchanger of another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0067] FIG. 10 illustrates a state in which a circulation duct is installed in the tub of another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0068] FIG. 11 illustrates the internal structure of a circulation duct of another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0069] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of the structure of the supply nozzle of another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0070] FIG. 13 illustrates a condition in which a specific area of ​​the evaporator may be more contaminated than other areas.

[0071] FIG. 14 illustrates a structure in which a circulating fan passes air through the moving duct under negative pressure, as in one embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0072] FIG. 15 illustrates the relationship between the area where air is discharged from the impeller in FIG. 14 and both sides of the moving duct.

[0073] FIG. 16 illustrates the process in which a flow path deflection region is generated on one side of the moving duct through the impeller in FIG. 14.

[0074] FIG. 17 illustrates the structure when a circulating fan passes air through the moving duct under positive pressure, as in another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0075] FIG. 18 illustrates the criteria defining both sides of the moving duct through the impeller in FIG. 17.

[0076] FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment of a supply nozzle capable of supplying a larger amount of water or water at a higher pressure to a specific area of ​​the evaporator than to the remaining area.

[0077] FIG. 20 illustrates another embodiment of a supply nozzle capable of supplying a larger amount of water or water at a higher pressure to a specific area of ​​the evaporator than to the remaining area.

[0078] FIG. 21 illustrates another embodiment of a supply nozzle capable of supplying a larger amount or higher water pressure to a specific area of ​​the evaporator than to the remaining area.

[0079] FIG. 22 illustrates a final embodiment of a supply nozzle capable of supplying a larger amount or higher water pressure to a specific area of ​​the evaporator than to the remaining area.

[0080] FIG. 23 illustrates a method for controlling a water supply valve that can supply a larger amount of water or water at a higher pressure to a specific area of ​​the evaporator than to the remaining area.

[0081] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In this specification, identical or similar reference numbers are assigned to identical or similar components even if they are different embodiments, and the description thereof is replaced by the first description. Singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, in describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of related prior art are omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, it should be noted that the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and should not be interpreted as limiting the technical concept disclosed in this specification.

[0082] FIG. 1 illustrates the exterior of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0083] The clothing processing device of the present invention may be equipped as a dryer for drying clothing, or as a washing and drying device capable of drying clothing while performing washing.

[0084] In the following description, the garment processing device of the present invention is described based on the assumption that it is equipped as a dryer, but this does not exclude the assumption that the garment processing device of the present invention is equipped as a washer and dryer.

[0085] A clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet (100) that forms an exterior.

[0086] The cabinet (100) may include a front panel (110) forming the front surface of the clothing processing device, an upper panel (150) forming the top surface, and a side panel (140) forming the side surface. The side panel (140) may include a left panel (141) forming the left side surface. The front panel (110) may be provided with an opening (111) configured to communicate with the interior of the cabinet (100) and a door (130) rotatably coupled to the cabinet (100) to open and close the opening (111).

[0087] An operation panel (117) may be installed on the front panel (110). The operation panel (117) may be equipped with an input unit (118) for receiving control commands from a user, and a display unit (119) for outputting information such as control commands selectable by the user. The control commands may include a drying course or drying option capable of performing a series of drying operations. Inside the cabinet (100), a control box (see FIG. 10) may be installed to control the internal configuration to execute the control commands input through the input unit (118). The control box may be connected to the components inside the garment processing device and control the corresponding components to execute the input commands.

[0088] The above input unit (118) may be provided to include a power supply request unit that requests power supply of the clothing processing device, a course input unit that enables the user to select a desired course among a plurality of courses, and an execution request unit that requests the start of the course selected by the user.

[0089] The above display unit (119) may be provided to include at least one of a display panel capable of outputting text and shapes, and a speaker capable of outputting voice signals and sound.

[0090] Meanwhile, the garment processing device of the present invention may include a water storage tank (120) provided to separately store moisture generated during the process of drying the garment. The water storage tank (120) may include a handle provided to be pulled out to the outside from one side of the front panel (110). The water storage tank (120) may be provided to collect condensate generated during the drying process. Thus, the user can pull the water storage tank (120) out of the cabinet (100), remove the condensate, and then reattach it to the cabinet (100). Thus, the garment processing device of the present invention can be placed in a location where a sewer or the like is not installed.

[0091] Meanwhile, the water storage tank (120) can be positioned on the upper part of the door (130). This allows the user to bend their waist relatively less when pulling out the water storage tank (120) from the front panel (110), thereby increasing user convenience.

[0092] FIG. 2 briefly illustrates the internal structure of one embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0093] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a drum (200) that is housed inside the cabinet (100) and houses clothing, a driving unit that rotates the drum (200), a heat exchanger (900) that is provided to supply hot air to the drum (200), and a base (800) that is provided with a circulation duct (820).

[0094] The above circulation duct (820) is provided to be in communication with the drum (200). Air discharged from the drum (200) can be supplied to the circulation duct (820). Additionally, air discharged from the circulation duct (820) can be supplied back to the drum (200).

[0095] The above drive unit may include a motor unit (500) that provides power to rotate the drum (200).

[0096] The clothing processing device of the present invention may be configured such that a motor unit (500) is installed on a base (800) positioned below a drum (200), and the drum (200) is configured to rotate by the power of the motor unit (500) through a structure such as a belt and a pulley.

[0097] In addition, as illustrated, the garment processing device of the present invention may be provided with the drive unit directly connected to the drum (200) to rotate the drum (200). For example, the drive unit may be provided as a DD (Direct Drive unit) type. By doing so, the drive unit can control the rotation direction or rotation speed of the drum (200) by directly rotating the drum (200) without omitting components such as belts and pulleys.

[0098] In the following description, the driving unit of the garment processing device of the present invention is described based on the arrangement of the driving unit as a DD type, but this does not exclude the arrangement of the driving unit of the garment processing device of the present invention as a belt / pulley type.

[0099] The motor unit (500) can rotate at a high RPM. For example, it can rotate at a much higher RPM than the RPM at which the clothing inside the drum (200) can rotate while attached to the inner wall of the drum (200).

[0100] However, there is a problem that the drying efficiency is reduced because the part attached to the inner wall of the drum (200) is not exposed to hot air when the clothing inside the drum (200) continuously sticks to the inner wall of the drum (200) and rotates.

[0101] If the rotor (520) is rotated at a low RPM so that the clothing rolls or is stirred inside the drum (200) without adhering to the inner wall of the drum (200), a problem may arise in which the output or torque that the drive unit can generate cannot be properly utilized.

[0102] Accordingly, the driving unit of the clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a reduction gear (600) capable of increasing torque while utilizing the maximum output of the motor unit (500) by reducing the RPM.

[0103] The above reduction gear (600) may include a gearbox comprising a sun gear coupled to a motor unit (500) inside, a planetary gear that rotates by meshing with the sun gear, a ring gear disposed on the outer surface of the planetary gear, and a carrier that rotates according to the revolution of the planetary gear. The above reduction gear (600) may include a rotating shaft connected to the gearbox and coupled to the back surface of the drum (200).

[0104] The drum (200) may be provided in a cylindrical shape to accommodate clothing. A through hole provided along the circumferential surface of the drum (200) may be omitted.

[0105] The above drum (200) may be provided in a single cylindrical shape, but may be manufactured in a combined form of a drum body (210) including a circumferential surface and a drum back surface (220) forming a rear surface.

[0106] An input port (211) for entering or exiting clothing may be provided at the front of the drum body (210). A driving unit for rotating the drum may be connected to the rear of the drum back surface (220).

[0107] The drum body (210) may be equipped with a lifter (213) that pulls the clothing inside upward so that the clothing inside can be mixed as it rotates.

[0108] Reinforcement beads (212) may be formed on the circumferential surface of the drum body (210). The reinforcement beads (212) may be provided in a recessed or protruding manner from the inside or outside along the circumferential surface of the drum (200). Such reinforcement beads may be provided in multiple numbers and may be provided spaced apart from each other.

[0109] When the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a DD-type washing machine, the driving unit is coupled and fixed to a tub that accommodates the drum (200) and stores water, and the drum (200) can be coupled to the driving unit and supported on the tub.

[0110] However, if the garment processing device of the present invention is equipped as a DD type dryer, the tub that accommodates the drum (200) may be omitted. Accordingly, the garment processing device of the present invention may further include a support member (400) provided to fix or support the drum (200), the motor part (500), and the reduction gear (600) inside the cabinet (100).

[0111] The support member (400) may include a front plate (410) positioned in front of the drum (200) and a rear plate (420) positioned at the rear of the drum (200). The front plate (410) and the rear plate (420) may be provided in a plate shape and positioned to face the front and rear of the drum (200). The front plate (410) and the rear plate (420) may be fixed and supported on the bottom surface of the cabinet (100) or the base (800).

[0112] The front plate (410) may be positioned between the front panel forming the front surface of the cabinet and the drum (200). Additionally, the front plate (410) may be provided with an input communication hole (412) communicating with the input port (211).

[0113] The above front plate (410) may include a duct connection part (416) provided on the lower side of the input communication hole (412) and communicating with the circulation duct (820).

[0114] The front plate (410) may include a duct communication hole (417) that penetrates the duct connection part (416). The duct communication hole (417) is provided in a hollow form so as to guide air discharged through the drum's inlet (211) to the circulation duct (820).

[0115] A filter section (not shown) may be installed in the above duct communication hole (417) to filter out lint or large foreign particles generated from clothing.

[0116] Since the input port (211) is positioned at the front, it is preferable that the drive unit be installed on the rear plate (420) rather than on the front plate (410). The drive unit may be provided to be mounted and supported on the rear plate (420). Thus, the drive unit can rotate the drum (200) while its position is stably fixed through the rear plate (420).

[0117] At least one of the front plate (410) and the rear plate (420) can rotatably support the drum (200). At least one of the front plate (410) and the rear plate (420) can rotatably accommodate the front or rear end of the drum (200).

[0118] One or more support wheels (415) that rotatably support the front of the drum (200) may be provided at the lower part of the front plate (410).

[0119] When the drum (200) is rotated by the drive unit, the drum (200) can be supported by a drum rotation shaft (6341) connected to the rear. When clothing is contained inside the drum (200), the load imposed on the drum rotation shaft (6341) by the clothing may increase. Therefore, the drum rotation shaft (6341) is at risk of bending due to the load.

[0120] When the support wheel (415) supports the front lower part of the drum (200), the load on the drum rotation shaft (6341) can be reduced. Therefore, the drum rotation shaft (6341) can be prevented from bending and noise caused by vibration can be prevented.

[0121] The above circulation duct (820) can form a flow path that circulates air inside the drum (200) and introduces it back into the drum (200).

[0122] The above circulation duct (820) may include an inlet duct (821) into which air discharged from the drum (200) is introduced, an outlet duct (823) that supplies air to the drum (200), and a moving duct (822) that connects the inlet duct (821) and the outlet duct (823).

[0123] When air is discharged from the front of the drum (200), the moving duct (822) may be located on the front side of the circulation duct (820). And the discharge duct (823) may be located on the rear side of the circulation duct (820).

[0124] A duct cover portion (830) is attached to the upper side of the above circulation duct (820) to partially shield the open upper surface of the circulation duct (820). The duct cover portion (830) can prevent air from leaking out of the circulation duct (820).

[0125] Additionally, the heat exchanger (900) provided in the base (800) may include an evaporator (910) provided inside the circulation duct (820) to cool the air, and a condenser (920) provided inside the circulation duct (820) to heat the air cooled by the evaporator (910). The evaporator (910) and the condenser (920) may be installed in the movable duct (822).

[0126] The above heat exchanger (900) may include a circulation fan (950) installed in a circulation duct (820) to generate air flow inside the circulation duct (820). Additionally, the circulation fan (950) may further include an impeller (952) that moves air and a fan motor (951) that rotates it. The impeller (952) may rotate by receiving rotational power from the fan motor (951).

[0127] The circulation fan (950) may be installed in any one of the inlet duct (821), the moving duct (822), and the exhaust duct (823). For example, the circulation fan (950) may be placed in the exhaust duct (823).

[0128] Alternatively, the circulation duct (820) may further include a fan housing (824) in which the circulation fan (950) is installed. The fan housing (824) may be formed inside the exhaust duct (823).

[0129] Alternatively, the fan housing (824) may be formed between the exhaust duct (823) and the movable duct (822), or between the inlet duct (821) and the movable duct (822).

[0130]

[0131] The above circulation duct (820) and the above heat exchanger (900) may be positioned below the drum (200).

[0132] A rear plate (420) may be provided at the rear of the drum (200) to guide air discharged from the circulation duct (820) into the drum (200). The rear plate (420) may be provided spaced apart from the back surface (220) of the drum. The circulation duct (820) may receive air inside the drum (200) through the front plate (410) and supply air to the drum (200) through the rear plate (420). Air discharged from the circulation duct (820) may pass through the rear plate (420) and be guided into the drum (200).

[0133] The base (800) may further include a connector (850) that guides the air discharged from the circulation duct (820) to the rear plate (420). The connector (850) can guide the discharged air to spread evenly across the entire rear plate (420).

[0134] The drum back surface (220) may be provided with a bushing portion (300) connecting the driving unit and the drum back surface (220). The bushing portion (300) may be provided on the drum back surface (220) to form the rotational center of the drum (200). The bushing portion (300) may be provided integrally with the drum back surface (220), but may be provided with a material having greater rigidity or durability than the drum back surface (220) in order to be firmly coupled with the rotating shaft that transmits power. The bushing portion (300) may be seated and coupled to the drum back surface (220) so as to be coaxial with the rotational center of the drum back surface (220).

[0135] The drum back surface (220) may include a circumference portion (221) coupled to the outer circumference of the drum body (210) and a mounting plate (222) provided on the inner side of the circumference portion (221) and coupled to the driving unit. The bushing portion (300) may be seated on and coupled to the mounting plate (222).

[0136] The drum back surface (220) may include a suction hole (224) formed through the perimeter portion (221) and the mounting plate (222) to connect the front and rear of the drum back surface (220). Hot air supplied through the circulation duct (820) may flow into the interior of the drum body (210) through the suction hole (224).

[0137] A driving unit for rotating the drum (200) may be located at the rear of the rear plate (420). The driving unit may include a motor unit (500) that generates rotational power and a reduction gear (600) that reduces the rotational power of the motor unit (500) and transmits it to the drum (200).

[0138] A motor unit (500) may be positioned at the rear of the rear plate (420). The motor unit (500) may be coupled to the rear of the rear plate (420) through the reduction gear (600).

[0139] The above reduction gear (600) is fixed to the back surface of the rear plate (420), and the motor unit (500) can be coupled to the back surface of the reduction gear (600). That is, the rear plate (420) can provide a support surface on which the reduction gear (600) or the motor unit (500) is supported. However, it is not limited thereto, and the motor unit (500) may also be coupled to the rear plate (420).

[0140] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the internal components constituting the clothing processing device separated from each other.

[0141] The front plate (410) may include a front panel (411) forming a front surface and an input communication hole (412) formed to penetrate the front panel (411) and communicate with the drum (200). The front plate (410) may be provided with a front gasket (413) that is provided on the back surface of the front panel (411) and is provided to surround the radial outer side of the input communication hole (412) to accommodate a part of the drum body (210).

[0142] The front gasket (413) can rotatably support the drum body (210) and can be provided to contact the outer or inner surface of the inlet (211). The front gasket (413) can prevent hot air inside the drum (200) from leaking between the drum body (210) and the front plate (410).

[0143] Meanwhile, the front plate (410) may include a duct communication hole (417) provided by penetrating the inner surface of the input communication hole (412). Additionally, the front plate (410) may include a duct connection part (416) that extends downward from the duct communication hole (417) and forms a flow path connecting the drum body (210) and the circulation duct (820).

[0144] The above duct connection part (416) can be connected to the drum body (210) through the duct communication hole (417), and air discharged from the drum body (210) can be introduced into the duct connection part (416) through the duct communication hole (417) and guided to the circulation duct (820).

[0145] The above front plate (410) may be provided with a water tank support hole (414) through which a water tank (120, see FIG. 1) in which condensate generated during the drying process is stored can be withdrawn or supported.

[0146] The drum back surface (220) may further include reinforcing ribs (225) extending from the periphery portion (221) toward the center of rotation. The reinforcing ribs (225) may extend to avoid the suction hole (224). The reinforcing ribs (225) have the effect of preventing the rigidity of the drum back surface (220) from decreasing due to the suction hole (224). The reinforcing ribs (225) may be provided by extending radially from the outer surface of the mounting plate (222) toward the inner surface of the periphery portion (221).

[0147] Additionally, the drum back surface (220) may further include a circumferential rib (227) that extends in the circumferential direction of the drum back surface (220) to connect the reinforcing ribs (225) to each other. The suction hole (224) may be arranged between the reinforcing rib (225), the circumferential rib (227), and the circumferential portion (221).

[0148] The inlet duct (821) may be provided to be connected to the duct communication hole (417) of the front plate (410) and to be connected to the flow path installed inside the front plate (410). The movable duct (822) may be provided to extend from the end of the inlet duct (821) toward the rear of the drum (200), and the exhaust duct (823) may be provided at the end of the movable duct (822) to guide the air to the drum (200).

[0149] The fan housing (824) may be located downstream of the exhaust duct (823), and the fan housing (824) may provide a space for installing a circulation fan. When the circulation fan operates, air introduced into the inlet duct (821) may be discharged through the upper part of the fan housing (824).

[0150] The heat exchanger (900) may further include a compressor (930) connected to an evaporator and a condenser to supply compressed refrigerant. Since the compressor (930) may be configured not to directly exchange heat with the circulating air, it may be located outside the circulation duct (820).

[0151] The connector (850) can be installed on the upper part of the exhaust duct (823). That is, the connector (850) can guide the air discharged from the exhaust duct (823) to the rear plate (420). The hot air supplied to the rear plate (420) can be introduced into the interior of the drum (200) through the drum back surface (220).

[0152] The above fan motor (951) can be coupled to the rear of the fan housing (824).

[0153] Meanwhile, a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a connector (850) coupled to the circulation duct (820) and guiding the hot air discharged from the circulation duct (820) to the rear of the drum (200) or the rear plate (420).

[0154] The connector (850) may be positioned above the exhaust duct (823) to guide the hot air heated by passing through the condenser (920) upward above the exhaust duct (823). Additionally, the connector (850) may be coupled to an opening provided on the upper side of the fan housing (824).

[0155] The connector (850) may be provided to form a flow path inside. The connector (850) may be provided to guide the flow of air generated by the circulation fan evenly to the rear plate (420). That is, the connector (850) may be provided such that the area of ​​the flow path increases as it moves further away from the exhaust duct (823).

[0156] The rear plate (420) may be coupled to or supported by the base (800) and positioned at the rear of the drum (200). The rear plate (420) may include a rear panel (421) positioned facing the front plate (410), and a duct section (423) provided to be recessed in the rear panel (421) to form a passage for air flow and to guide air discharged from the circulation duct (820) to the drum.

[0157] The rear plate (420) may include a mounting portion (425) to which the drive unit is coupled or supported. The mounting portion (425) may be provided to penetrate the rear panel (421) and may be positioned on the inner circumference of the duct portion (423). The mounting portion (425) may be provided spaced radially inward from the inner circumference of the duct portion (423).

[0158] Here, the driving unit may refer to a combination of the reduction gear (600) and the motor unit (500) as described above. Additionally, the driving unit may refer only to the motor unit (500). That is, a configuration that generates power and transmits rotational power to the drum may be referred to as the driving unit.

[0159] The above drive unit can be mounted on the mounting part (425). The mounting part (425) can support the load of the drive unit. The drive unit can be connected to the drum (200) while being supported on the mounting part (425).

[0160] The above duct section (423) may be provided to accommodate a portion of the drum back surface (220). The above duct section (423) may form a flow path for air to move together with the drum back surface (220).

[0161] The above drive unit may be installed in the mounting part (425) so as not to interfere with the duct part (423). That is, the drive unit may be positioned so as to be spaced radially inward from the inner circumference of the duct part (423). The drive unit is installed in the mounting part (425), but is installed so that its rear end is exposed to the outside, so that it can be cooled by external air.

[0162] The above drive unit may include a motor unit (500) that provides power to rotate the drum (200). The motor unit (500) may include a stator (510) that generates a rotating magnetic field and a rotor (520) configured to rotate by the stator (510).

[0163] The rotor (520) may be provided as an outer rotor type that accommodates the stator (510) and is configured to rotate along the circumference of the stator (510). In this case, a drive shaft may be coupled to the rotor (520) and directly connected to the drum (200) by passing through the stator (510) and the mounting part (425). In this case, the rotor (520) can directly transmit power to rotate the drum (200).

[0164] The rotor (520) can be coupled to a drive shaft through a washer portion (540). The washer portion (540) can perform the function of connecting the drive shaft and the rotor (520). Since the contact area between the rotor (520) and the drive shaft can be increased by the washer portion (540), the rotation of the rotor (520) can be transmitted more effectively.

[0165] The reduction gear (600) may be configured to connect the motor unit (500) and the drum (200). The reduction gear (600) may convert the power of the motor unit (500) to rotate the drum (200). The reduction gear (600) may be positioned between the motor unit (500) and the drum (200) to receive the power of the motor unit (500), convert it, and transmit it to the drum (200). The reduction gear (600) may be configured to convert the RPM of the rotor to a small RPM while increasing the torque value and transmitting it to the drum (200).

[0166] Specifically, the reduction gear (600) may be coupled to a drive shaft that rotates together with the rotor (520). The reduction gear (600) includes a gear assembly inside that rotates in engagement with the drive shaft to change the RPM of the drive shaft while increasing torque, and the gear assembly may be connected to a drum rotation shaft that is coupled to the drum (200) to rotate the drum. Thus, when the drive shaft (530) rotates, the drum rotation shaft rotates at a slower RPM than the drive shaft but can rotate with greater torque.

[0167] The performance of such a reduction gear (600) may depend on whether the drive shaft and the drum rotation shaft can maintain coaxial alignment. When the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped as a dryer, the configuration of a tub fixed inside the cabinet is omitted. In addition, the back panel of the cabinet is provided as a relatively thin plate, so even if the stator (510) is fixed, the back panel can easily vibrate or bend due to the repulsive force when the rotor (520) rotates.

[0168] To solve this problem, the clothing processing device of the present invention can fix the motor part (500) by coupling it to the reduction gear (600).

[0169] Since the motor unit (500) is not fixed to other components of the clothing processing device but is fixed only to the reduction gear (600), when vibration is transmitted to the drive unit or an external force is transmitted, the motor unit (500) can always tilt or vibrate simultaneously with the reduction gear (600) when the reduction gear (600) tilts or vibrates.

[0170] As a result, the reduction gear (600) and the motor unit (500) can form a single vibration system, and the reduction gear (600) and the motor unit (500) can be maintained in a fixed state without moving relative to each other.

[0171] The stator (510) of the motor unit (500) can be directly coupled to and fixed to the reduction gear (600).

[0172] The first axis (M1) may represent an imaginary line extending in the forward and backward direction along the rotation center of the drum (200). The second axis (M2) and the third axis (M3) may represent imaginary lines extending from the front to the rear upper side of the clothing processing device.

[0173] The first shaft (M1) and the second shaft (M2) may intersect each other in the reduction gear (600). Additionally, the first shaft (M1) and the third shaft (M3) may intersect in the mounting part (425).

[0174] The above reduction gear (600) and the above motor unit (500) can be designed to be arranged along a first axis (M1) parallel to the ground when there is no load on the drum (200) or when the above motor unit (500) is not operating.

[0175] However, when vibration occurs in the drum (200) or motor part (500), the vibration is transmitted to the reduction gear (600) and the reduction gear (600) tilts, so that the reduction gear (600) may temporarily be in a state of tilting along the second axis (M2).

[0176] At this time, since the motor unit (500) is coupled to the reduction gear (600), it can vibrate or tilt together with the reduction gear (600). Therefore, the motor unit (500) can be positioned parallel to the reduction gear (600) on the second axis (M2). Accordingly, the drive shaft and the drum rotation shaft can also be positioned parallel to each other along the second axis (M2).

[0177] As a result, even if the reduction gear (600) is tilted, the motor unit (500) can move integrally with the reduction gear (600), and the drive shaft and the drum rotation shaft can maintain coaxiality.

[0178] The above reduction gear (600) can be fixed by being coupled to the rear plate (420). In this case, since the reduction gear (600) will tilt or vibrate while coupled to the rear plate (420), the rear plate (420) can be seen as serving as the center of the vibration system including the reduction gear (600), the motor unit (500), and the drum (200). Even in this case, the motor unit (500) may not be directly coupled to the rear plate (420) but may be fixed by being coupled only to the reduction gear (600).

[0179] The reduction gear (600), the motor unit (500), and the drum (200) are arranged in parallel along the first axis (M1), and the reduction gear (600) can be tilted in parallel with the third axis (M3) due to vibration of the drum (200) or the motor unit (500). The third axis (M3) can pass through the reduction gear (600) coupled to the rear plate (420). At this time, since the reduction gear (600) and the motor unit (500) are coupled, the motor unit (500) can also be tilted in parallel with the third axis (M3) in the same way as the reduction gear (600).

[0180] A sealing portion (450) may be provided between the drum back surface (220) and the rear plate (420). The sealing portion (450) can seal the space between the drum back surface (220) and the rear plate (420) so that air introduced into the duct portion (423) of the rear plate (420) does not leak out to the outside but flows into the suction hole (224).

[0181] The sealing portion (450) may be disposed on the outer and inner sides of the duct portion (423), respectively. A first sealing (451) may be provided on the radially outer side of the duct portion (423), and a second sealing (452) may be provided on the radially inner side. The first sealing (451) can prevent hot air from leaking out radially outward between the drum back surface (220) and the duct portion (423), and the second sealing (452) can prevent hot air from leaking out radially inward between the drum back surface (220) and the duct portion (423).

[0182] A bracket (700) that reinforces rigidity may be additionally attached to the rear plate (420) in the part combined with the reduction gear (600).

[0183] The rear cover (430) is coupled to the rear of the rear plate (420) to prevent the duct section (423) and the motor section (500) or reduction gear (600) from being exposed to the outside. The rear cover (430) may be spaced apart from the duct section (423) and the drive section.

[0184] FIG. 4 illustrates the base structure of an embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0185] The above base (800) may have the circulation duct (820) extended and arranged on one side. The circulation duct (820) may be arranged offset to one side from the center of the base (800). The circulation duct (820) may be arranged extending in the front-rear direction.

[0186] The above circulation duct (820) may be formed integrally with the base (800) and may be provided in a duct shape with an open top. The duct cover portion (830) may be detachably coupled to the upper surface of the circulation duct (820) to form a flow path inside the circulation duct (820).

[0187] The above duct cover portion (830) may be formed shorter than the length of the circulation duct (820), or one end may be provided in a ring shape to form the inlet duct (821).

[0188] Among the above circulation ducts (820), the moving duct (822) may be arranged to extend in the front-rear direction. Both the evaporator (910) and the condenser (920) may be mounted inside the moving duct (822).

[0189] The inlet duct (821) may be formed to be wider than the moving duct (822). The inlet duct (821) may be positioned so that most of its area overlaps vertically with the inlet (211) of the drum (200). Thus, the inlet duct (821) can draw in air discharged from the drum (200).

[0190] In the base (800), an external area of ​​the circulation duct (820) may be formed as a device installation section (810) where electrical components are installed. The device installation section (810) is an external area of ​​the circulation duct (820) in the base (800), and may be equipped with components such as a compressor (930), a pump (861) for discharging water discharged from the circulation duct (820) to the outside, a cleaning section (1000) for cleaning the circulation duct (820), and a steam section (2000) for supplying steam to the inside of the circulation duct (820).

[0191] By positioning the above-mentioned circulation duct (820) so that it is offset in the front-rear direction on one side of the base (800), the above-mentioned device installation section (810) can be provided so that it is accessible from the back or front of the cabinet (100) without interfering with the circulation duct (820). As a result, it is easy to install or repair / replace components or electrical parts placed in the above-mentioned device installation section (810) from the base (800).

[0192] The above device installation part (810) may include a water collection part (860) in which water discharged from the above movable duct (822) is collected.

[0193] The above water collection section (860) may be sunken downward from the base (800) to form a space where water is stored. The bottom surface of the water collection section (860) may be formed lower than the bottom surface of the movable duct (822).

[0194] The above water collection unit (860) may be positioned on one side of the movable duct (822) and configured to be in communication with the inside of the movable duct (822).

[0195] The above water collection unit (860) can collect water condensed from the evaporator (910). Additionally, the above water collection unit (860) can also collect water supplied from the washing unit (1000) described later.

[0196] The above device installation unit (810) may further include a pump (861) mounted on the water collection unit (860) to discharge water collected in the water collection unit (860). The pump (861) may provide power to discharge water collected in the water collection unit (860) to a water storage tank (120) or to discharge it outside the cabinet (100).

[0197] Additionally, the pump (861) may be configured to supply water collected in the collection unit (860) to the washing unit (1000) to wash the inside of the circulation duct (820).

[0198] The above base (800) does not have a motor unit (500) installed. Thus, the water collection unit (860) can be provided with a diameter much larger than that of the pump (861). For example, the water collection unit (860) can be provided with a diameter more than twice as large as that of the pump (861). As a result, the water collection unit (860) can sufficiently store not only water collected from the evaporator (910) but also water supplied from the washing unit (1000).

[0199] The above cleaning unit (1000) can clean the inside of the circulation duct (820) by supplying water to the inside of the circulation duct (820). The above cleaning unit (1000) can clean the inside of the circulation duct (820) with clean water (direct water) supplied from the outside, and can clean the evaporator (910) placed inside the circulation duct (820) or the filter, etc. placed upstream of the evaporator (910) based on the direction in which air flows in. Hereinafter, cleaning the configuration of the evaporator (910) and the filter, etc. placed in front of the evaporator (910) with water sprayed from the cleaning unit (1000) is collectively referred to as cleaning the evaporator (910).

[0200] The above device installation unit (810) may further include a steam generating unit (2000) capable of generating steam by receiving water.

[0201] The steam generating unit (2000) may be mounted on a base (800) and configured to supply steam into the circulation duct (820). Thus, the steam can be supplied into the drum (200) through a circulation fan (950). Additionally, the steam discharged from the steam generating unit (2000) may also be supplied to an evaporator (910) and a condenser (920), thereby sterilizing the evaporator (910) and the condenser (920).

[0202] The base (800) may be provided with a steam mounting part (890) positioned in front of the water collection part (860) and on which the steam generating part (2000) is seated.

[0203] The steam mounting part (890) can protrude upward from the base (800) to form a space in which the steam generating part (2000) can be supported.

[0204] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a configuration installed in the device installation part of one embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0205] The above washing unit (1000) may be equipped with a water supply washing unit capable of receiving water from an external water source to wash the inside of the circulation duct (820) or wash the evaporator (910).

[0206] The washing unit (1000) may include a water supply valve (1100) which is installed on the base (800) or fixed to the back panel (150) of the cabinet (100) to receive water from an external water source, a supply pipe (1200) which conveys water supplied from the water supply valve (1100), and a supply nozzle (1300) which is positioned on the upper part of the circulation duct (820) and discharges water supplied from the supply pipe (1200) into the circulation duct (820).

[0207] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a water supply bracket (880) that fixes the water supply valve (1100). The water supply bracket (880) may be provided in a plate shape and may be provided with a material having greater rigidity than the base (800). For example, the water supply bracket (800) may be provided with a metal material. Thus, even if water with high water pressure is supplied to the water supply valve (1100) or vibration is transmitted to the water supply valve (1100), the position where the water supply valve (1100) is installed is fixed, thereby preventing the risk of leakage.

[0208] The above water supply bracket (880) may be fixed by being coupled to the back surface of the base (800), or it may be fixed to the back panel (150) of the cabinet (100) and positioned spaced upward from the base (800).

[0209] The above water supply valve (1100) may be provided to supply water not only to the supply nozzle (1300) but also to the steam generating unit (2200). This may be advantageous in terms of energy and control / management compared to having the water supply valve (1100) provided separately.

[0210] To this end, the water supply valve (1100) may include a main valve (1110) communicating with water from an external water source passing through a water supply bracket (800), a supply valve (1120) receiving water from the main valve (1110) and supplying it to the supply nozzle (1300), and a steam valve (1130) receiving water from the main valve (1110) and supplying it to the steam generating unit (1300).

[0211] The supply valve (1120) can be connected to one end of the supply pipe (1200), and the steam valve (1130) can be connected to one end of the steam pipe (2200) described later.

[0212] In the following description, for all configurations where water flows, the first can be defined as the region where water flows into the configuration, and the end can be defined as the region where the incoming water finally reaches during the process of flowing without backflow within the configuration.

[0213] The main valve (1110), the supply valve (1120), and the steam valve (1130) may be configured to communicate sequentially and simultaneously.

[0214] The main valve (1110) can be controlled to supply all water to the supply valve (1120) and the steam valve (1130) or to block all water.

[0215] Additionally, the supply valve (1120) may be configured to selectively open and close the supply pipe (1200) even when water is supplied from the main valve (1110).

[0216] Additionally, the steam valve (1130) may be configured to selectively open and close the steam pipe (2200) even when water is supplied from the main valve (1110) or the supply valve (1120).

[0217] Thus, the supply of water from the external water source is primarily determined by the main valve (1110), and secondarily determined by the supply valve (1120) and the steam valve (1130). As a result, even if some of the water supply valves (1110) malfunction or become uncontrollable, water cannot be supplied arbitrarily through the water supply valves (1110).

[0218] The above supply nozzle (1300) may be provided with multiple supply pipes (1200) depending on whether the flow path is partitioned. In this case, the above supply valve (1120) may also be provided in a number corresponding to the supply pipes (1200).

[0219] For example, if the supply pipe (1200) is provided in two, it may include a first supply valve (1121) connected to one of the supply pipes (1200) and receiving water from the main valve (1100), and a second supply valve (1122) connected to the other supply pipe (1200) and receiving water from the main valve (1100) or the first supply valve (1121).

[0220] The supply nozzle (1300) may be positioned on the upper part of the circulation duct (820). For example, it may be seated and fixed on the duct cover part (830).

[0221] The supply nozzle (1300) can be extended and positioned along the width direction of the circulation duct (820). This allows water to be sprayed evenly inside the circulation duct (820).

[0222] For example, the width of the supply nozzle (1300) may be configured to correspond to the width of the circulation duct (820). This allows water to be supplied evenly over the entire width of the circulation duct (820).

[0223] The above evaporator (910) may be exposed to foreign substances such as lint discharged from the drum (200) by coming into contact with air supplied from the inlet duct (821). The supply nozzle (1300) may be positioned at the top of the evaporator (910). By doing so, foreign substances such as lint attached from the top to the bottom of the evaporator (910) can be washed away with water.

[0224] Meanwhile, foreign substances such as lint may be attached more to the front of the evaporator (910) than to the back. The supply nozzle (1300) may be positioned at the upper front of the evaporator (910). The supply nozzle (1300) may be positioned closer to the front than to the back of the evaporator (910). By doing so, foreign substances attached intensively to the front of the evaporator (910) can be washed away with water.

[0225] The water used to clean the evaporator (910) can also clean the inner surface of the circulation duct (820). Additionally, at least a portion of the water discharged from the supply nozzle (1300) can wash down both sides of the circulation duct (820). The water discharged from the supply nozzle (1300) can finally be collected on the bottom surface of the circulation duct (820) and discharged to the water collection unit (860). In this process, all foreign matter settled on the bottom surface of the circulation duct (820) can be washed away.

[0226] Consequently, the control unit of the clothing processing device of the present invention can control the water supply valve (1100) to clean both the inside of the evaporator (910) and the circulation duct (820).

[0227] In the above evaporator (910), a flow path deflection region described later may be formed on either one side or the other side based on the central region (911) corresponding to the center of both ends.

[0228] The above-mentioned water collection unit (860) may be positioned on one side of the evaporator (910) to collect water condensed in the evaporator (910). The water collection unit (860) may be positioned closer to the evaporator (910) than to the condenser (920). As a result, the supply nozzle (1300) may be positioned to overlap the water collection unit (860) in the width direction, and the water collection unit (860) may be positioned on one side of the supply nozzle (1300).

[0229] In the following, the front-rear direction and the width direction may be defined based on the garment processing device. For example, the extension direction of the circulation duct corresponds to the front-rear direction, and the flow path cross-sectional direction of the circulation duct perpendicular to the front-rear direction may correspond to the width direction.

[0230] The above steam generating unit (2000) may include a steam case (2100) that is seated on the base (800) and stores water, a steam pipe (2200) that receives water from the water supply valve (1100) and transmits it to the steam case (2100), a supply pipe (2400) that moves steam discharged from the steam case (2100), and a steam nozzle (2300) that is connected to the end of the supply pipe (2400) and discharges steam into the circulation duct (820).

[0231] The steam case (2100) can be positioned further forward than the water collection unit (860). By doing so, the steam case (2100) can be easily exposed in front of the cabinet (100), thereby facilitating at least one of installation, maintenance, and residual water discharge.

[0232] The above steam case (2100) may be seated on the steam mounting part and may have a space for storing water, and a heater that heats the water to generate steam may be installed inside.

[0233] One end of the steam pipe (2200) may be connected to the steam valve (1130), and the other end may be connected to the steam case (2100). The other end of the steam pipe (2200) may be connected to the upper part of the steam case (2100) rather than the lower part to prevent water from flowing backward.

[0234] The supply pipe (2400) can be separated and spaced apart from the steam pipe (2200) and connected to the steam case (2100). One end of the supply pipe (2400) can be positioned closer to the upper part of the steam case (2100) than to the lower part. Thus, steam generated by heating water can be automatically discharged into the supply pipe (2400) due to the difference in density.

[0235] The steam nozzle (2300) may be positioned at the top of the circulation duct (820) to supply steam into the circulation duct (820). The steam nozzle (2300) may be seated on the duct cover (830).

[0236] The steam nozzle (2300) may be provided to extend in the width direction of the circulation duct (820). By doing so, the steam nozzle (2300) can supply steam to the widest possible area of ​​the circulation duct (820) to sterilize the inside of the circulation duct (820).

[0237] The steam nozzle (2300) may be positioned on the upper part of the evaporator (910).

[0238] However, the steam nozzle (2300) may be spaced apart from the supply nozzle (1300) to avoid interference with the supply nozzle (1300).

[0239] The supply nozzle (1300) may be arranged in an overlapping vertical direction on the front surface of the evaporator (910) to increase the efficiency of cleaning the evaporator (910).

[0240] In this case, if the steam nozzle (2300) is positioned downstream or rearward from the supply nozzle (1300), there is a concern that the front surface of the evaporator (910) may not be exposed to steam. Therefore, the steam nozzle (2300) may be positioned forward from the supply nozzle (1300). Thus, the steam sprayed from the steam nozzle (2300) can travel along the extension direction of the circulation duct (820) and, in this process, pass through the entire area of ​​the evaporator (910).

[0241] The steam passing through the evaporator (910) can disinfect the evaporator (910), but it can also supply heat to the refrigerant passing through the evaporator (910). As a result, the evaporator (910) can absorb sufficient heat and transfer it to the compressor (930).

[0242] The clothing processing device of the present invention can induce the temperature of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (930) to reach a target temperature quickly by controlling a heater, etc., contained in the steam generating unit (2000) at the beginning of the drying process to supply steam to the evaporator (910). As a result, the drying time can be shortened and the drying efficiency can be increased.

[0243] The above supply pipe (1200) may be provided with an elastic material. For example, the above supply pipe (1200) may be provided with a rubber hose, etc.

[0244] The supply pipe (1200) and the steam pipe (2200) may be provided with an elastic material. For example, the supply pipe (1200) and the steam pipe (2200) may be provided with a rubber hose, etc.

[0245] The above movable duct (822) can accommodate the above evaporator (910) and the above condenser (920).

[0246] The above evaporator (910) and the above condenser (920) can be installed between both sides of the above movable duct (822).

[0247] The above-mentioned moving duct (822) can be extended on both sides from the inlet duct (821) toward the exhaust duct (823) in the direction in which air moves.

[0248] Both sides of the above-mentioned movable duct (822) may include one side (822a) and another side (822b) positioned to face the one side (822a).

[0249] The above-mentioned one-sided surface (822a) may be a surface positioned closer to the outer edge of the base (800) than the other-sided surface (822b).

[0250] The above fan housing (824) can be formed inside the above exhaust duct (823).

[0251] The above fan housing (824) may be formed between the exhaust duct (823) and the movable duct (822). The above fan housing (824) may be positioned below the outlet (8231) of the exhaust duct (823).

[0252] The above fan housing (824) may be provided with a volume capable of accommodating the above impeller (952).

[0253] Thus, the circulation fan (950) can suck in air from the moving duct (822) at negative pressure and discharge it to the exhaust duct (823).

[0254] The above fan motor (951) can be coupled to the back surface of the above fan housing (824). FIG. 6 illustrates the state of the base of an embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention as viewed from one side of the front.

[0255] When a plurality of flow paths are formed in the supply nozzle (1300) and the flow paths are partitioned / separated, the supply pipe (1200) may include a first supply pipe (1221) with one end connected to the first supply valve (1121) and the other end connected to the supply nozzle (1300), and a second supply pipe (1222) with one end connected to the second supply valve (1122) and the other end connected to the supply nozzle (1300). Thus, even if the water pressure or quantity of water supplied through the main valve (1110) is insufficient, the quantity and pressure of water sprayed per unit area from the supply nozzle (1300) can be secured.

[0256] The above water collection unit (860) may include a water collection body (862) that provides a space for collecting water discharged from the circulation duct (820), and a water collection cover (863) that shields the water collection body (862) and maintains the internal pressure of the water collection body (862).

[0257] The above water collection cover (863) may have a space formed in the center where the pump (861) is installed.

[0258] The above water collection unit (860) may include a drain pipe (864) that guides water discharged from the water collection body (862). The drain pipe (864) may be connected to the water collection cover (863) or pump (861), and the other end may be connected to a drain located outside the water storage tank (120) or cabinet (100).

[0259] The above water collection unit (860) may include a support bracket (865) that is fixed to the back surface of the base (800) or cabinet (100) and fixes the end of the drain pipe (864). The drain pipe (864) may be provided to pass through the support bracket (865). In this case, the support bracket (864) may support the outer surface of the drain pipe (864). Thus, even if high-pressure water moves through the drain pipe (864), the position in which the drain pipe (864) is placed can be fixed, and the drain pipe (864) can be prevented from being arbitrarily separated from the pump (861), etc.

[0260] FIG. 7 illustrates a water supply path of one embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0261] When the above water supply valve (1100) is opened, water supplied from an external water source can be supplied through the above main valve (1110).

[0262] When the main valve (1110) is opened, water is supplied to the supply valve (1120), and when the supply valve (1120) is opened, water can be supplied to the supply nozzle (1300) through the supply pipe (1200).

[0263] For example, when the first supply valve (1121) is opened, water can be supplied to the supply nozzle (1300) through the first supply pipe (1210), and when the second supply valve (1122) is opened, water can be supplied to the supply nozzle (1300) through the second supply pipe (122).

[0264] After the water supplied through the supply nozzle (1300) was used to clean the inside of the evaporator (910) and the circulation duct (820), it can be collected in the collection unit (860).

[0265] When the main valve (1110) is opened, water can be supplied to the steam valve (1130), and when the steam valve (1130) is opened, water can be supplied to the steam case (2100) through the steam pipe (2200).

[0266] Steam generated in the steam case (2100) can be injected into the steam nozzle (2300) through the supply pipe (2400), and steam condensed in the evaporator (910) or condensed in the circulation duct (820) can be collected in the collection unit (860).

[0267] The water collected in the above collection unit (860) can be discharged along the drain pipe (864) when the above pump (861) is driven. The water discharged through the drain pipe (864) can pass through the support bracket (865) and be discharged into the water storage tank (120) or the sewer.

[0268] The drain pipe (864) may be provided with an elastic material. For example, the drain pipe (864) may be provided with a rubber hose.

[0269] FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0270] The clothing processing device of the present invention may be equipped with a washing machine that also functions as a dryer.

[0271] For example, the clothing processing device of the present invention may include a cabinet (100) forming an exterior and a clothing receiving portion provided to store clothing inside the cabinet (100).

[0272] The above clothing receiving unit may include a drum (200) for storing clothing inside the cabinet (100). The drum (200) may be provided to rotate the clothing inside the cabinet (100).

[0273] Alternatively, the above clothing receiving unit may further include a tub (230) for storing water inside the cabinet (100), and the drum (200) may be rotatably provided inside the tub (230).

[0274] The cabinet (100) may include a front panel (110) having an opening (111) communicating with the interior of the drum (200), side panels (140) arranged on both sides of the front panel (110), and a back panel (150) connecting the back of the side panels (140).

[0275] The above front panel (110) may be provided in a plate shape, and a door (130) for opening and closing the opening may be rotatably coupled.

[0276] The above front panel (110) may be equipped with an input section (118) for receiving user commands and a display section (119) for displaying the status of the clothing processing device, located above the opening (111).

[0277] The cabinet (100) may further include an installation panel (160) that is positioned above the opening of the drum (200) and is coupled to side panels (150) positioned on both sides.

[0278] The above installation panel (160) may be equipped with a control panel capable of receiving commands to control the clothing processing device or displaying the operating status of the clothing processing device to the outside.

[0279] The above installation panel (160) can be positioned at the rear of the front panel (110) and can be coupled to the upper part of the front of the side panel (140).

[0280] The above-described installation panel (120) may have a panel installation part (121) formed therein for fixing the front of the circulation duct (820) described later. The panel installation part (121) may be provided in a groove shape for mounting the rear of the circulation duct (820), or in a hole shape through which a fastening member fastened to the rear of the circulation duct (820) passes.

[0281] The above tub (230) may be provided in a cylindrical shape and may be provided with an inlet at the front for introducing clothing.

[0282] The drum (200) may be provided with a cylindrical metal material with an open front, and may have a through hole on its outer surface so that water and detergent stored in the tub (230) can be introduced or discharged.

[0283] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a direct water supply unit (1000) that supplies water to the tub (230) and a drainage unit (180) that drains the water contained in the tub (230) to the outside of the cabinet (100).

[0284] The above direct water supply unit (1000) is configured to supply water to the supply nozzle (1300) described later to clean the inside of the circulation duct (820), so it may be defined as a cleaning unit or a direct water cleaning unit.

[0285] The above direct water washing unit (1000) may include a direct water valve (1100) that receives water from an external water source, a water supply pipe (1200) that guides the water supplied from the water supply valve (1100) toward the tub (230) or the supply nozzle (1300), and a detergent box (1400) that stores detergent and receives water supplied from the water supply valve (1100) to supply the detergent to the tub (230).

[0286] The above water supply valve (1100) can be connected to the back panel (150) and, if necessary, may be provided in multiple numbers to selectively open and supply water. The above water supply pipe (1200) may also be provided in multiple numbers to supply water to at least one of the supply nozzles (1300) provided in the detergent box (1400), the tub (230), and the circulation duct (820) described later.

[0287] The above drainage section (180) may include a drain pipe (181) extending from the lower part of the tub (230) and a drain pump (182) that provides power to discharge water discharged from the drain pipe (181) to the outside of the cabinet (100).

[0288] The present invention may be provided with a base (800) that forms the bottom surface of the clothing processing device.

[0289] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a support member (500) that supports the tub (200) inside the cabinet (100). The support member (500) may be provided with a plurality of suspensions, one end of which is connected to the tub (200) and the other end of which is connected to the base (800).

[0290] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a circulation duct (820) capable of circulating air inside the tub (230). The circulation duct (820) may form a flow path for circulating air inside the drum (200) outside the tub (230). Thus, the clothing processing device of the present invention may be equipped as a washing machine with a drying function.

[0291] Since components such as a drainage section (180) and a support section (500) are arranged in the lower part of the tub (230), the circulation duct (820) can be arranged above the tub (230).

[0292] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a heat exchanger (900) for heating air moving through the circulation duct (820). The heat exchanger (900) may include a heat exchanger disposed inside the circulation duct (820) and a compressor (930) disposed outside the circulation duct (820) for supplying high-temperature refrigerant to the heat exchanger.

[0293] The compressor (930) may be positioned below the tub (230). Therefore, a wider space may be secured between the upper part of the tub (230) and the side panel (150) for installing the circulation duct (820). Accordingly, in the clothing processing device of the present invention, the circulation duct (820) may be positioned to extend in the front-rear direction. As a result, the circulation duct (820) extends in the same direction as the tub (230) and the drum (200), thereby reducing flow resistance and allowing hot air to be supplied evenly inside the drum (200).

[0294] Additionally, by omitting the compressor (930) above the tub (230), the circulation duct (820) can be positioned offset toward one of the two side panels (150) from the top of the tub (230), thereby expanding the cross-sectional area of ​​the circulation duct (820). Accordingly, the clothing processing device of the present invention can circulate a larger flow rate of air to the outside of the tub (230) than when the compressor (930) is positioned above the tub (230).

[0295] The clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a circulation fan (950) mounted in a circulation duct (820) to circulate air in the tub (230). Since the compressor (930) is not positioned at the top of the tub (230), the circulation fan (950) may be positioned at the rear of the circulation duct (820) to suck in air from inside the tub (230) and supply it into the circulation duct (820).

[0296] Additionally, since the compressor (930) is positioned below the tub (230), the circulation fan (950) can utilize the entire space between the top of the tub (230) and the side panel (150). As a result, the circulation fan (950) can be positioned with a diameter in the width direction and arranged to rotate around a vertical axis of rotation, thereby enabling the circulation of a more abundant flow rate.

[0297] As a result, in the clothing processing device of the present invention, the compressor (930) is positioned lower than the tub (230), so that a larger flow rate can circulate through the circulation duct (820) per unit time, thereby increasing the drying efficiency.

[0298] FIG. 9 illustrates the arrangement of the circulation duct and heat exchanger of another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0299] The tub (230) is provided in a cylindrical shape extending in the front-rear direction, and the cabinet (100) is provided in an internal rectangular shape. Accordingly, in the upper region of the tub (230), more space is secured to the left and right of the center (O) in the width direction of the cabinet (100).

[0300] The above circulation duct (820) may be positioned offset from the center (O) in either the left or right direction. That is, the width-direction center of the above circulation duct (820) may also be positioned offset from the width-direction center (O) of the cabinet in either the left or right direction.

[0301] At this time, a portion of the circulation duct (820) may be arranged to overlap the width-direction center (O) and the height-direction of the cabinet. Additionally, a portion of the circulation duct (820) may be arranged spaced apart from the width-direction center (O) of the cabinet in either the left or right direction. As a result, the cross-sectional area of ​​the circulation duct (820) may be expanded.

[0302] Meanwhile, the compressor (930) may be positioned so as to be offset from the left or right side of the width direction center (O) of the cabinet (100) in the direction in which the circulation duct (820) is offset.

[0303] For example, the compressor (930) may be placed at the bottom of the circulation duct (820), and the circulation duct (820) and the compressor (930) may be placed so that at least a portion overlaps in the height direction.

[0304] As a result, the vertical distance between the circulation duct (820) and the compressor (930) can be reduced, and the length of the refrigerant pipe (990) connecting the compressor (930) and the heat exchanger placed inside the circulation duct (820) can be reduced. Accordingly, the refrigerant pipe (990) can be arranged in a straight line in the maximum height direction, thereby reducing the flow resistance of the refrigerant and minimizing heat loss occurring in the refrigerant pipe (990).

[0305] Meanwhile, the heat exchanger (900) of the present invention may further include a fixing plate (991) for fixing the refrigerant pipe (990) to the back panel (150) of the cabinet (100). The fixing plate (991) may be provided in the shape of a bracket in which the height is greater than the width, and at least one of the back and both sides of the refrigerant pipe (990) is mounted. Thus, the refrigerant pipe (990) can be spaced apart from the tub (230) and supported by the fixing plate (991) and the cabinet (100), and vibrations generated in the tub (230) are prevented from being directly transmitted to the refrigerant pipe (990), thereby enhancing durability.

[0306] Consequently, the compressor (930), the circulation duct (820), the refrigerant pipe (930), and the fixing plate (991) can all be positioned on the left side of the tub (230) or on the right side of the tub (230). Thus, the compressor (930), the circulation duct (820), the refrigerant pipe (990), and the fixing plate (991) can all be easily installed, repaired, and replaced when a single side panel (150) is removed.

[0307] The clothing processing device of the present invention may include a duct cover part (830) coupled to the upper part of the circulation duct (820) and shielding the inside of the circulation duct (820).

[0308] The above circulation duct (820) may be provided in a case shape or duct shape with an open top, and the duct cover part (830) may be provided in a plate shape or case shape corresponding to the circulation duct (820).

[0309] FIG. 10 illustrates a state in which a circulation duct is installed in a tub of another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0310] FIG. 10(a) illustrates the tub viewed from the front, and FIG. 10(b) illustrates the tub viewed from the rear.

[0311] The above circulation duct (820) may be configured to receive air from an air outlet (231) formed at the upper rear of the tub (230) and discharge air to an air inlet (232) formed at the upper front of the tub (230).

[0312] The above circulation duct (820) can be extended from the rear to the front and can be arranged in a direction corresponding to the front-rear direction of the tub (230) and the drum (200). By doing so, the air resistance flowing through the drum (200) and the circulation duct (820) can be reduced.

[0313] The above circulation fan (950) may be configured to suck in air from the air outlet (231) and supply it into the circulation duct (820). That is, the circulation fan (950) can supply air from inside the tub (230) into the circulation duct (820) at positive pressure.

[0314] A drive unit (500) for rotating the drum (200) may be coupled to the rear of the tub (230). The drive unit (500) may be provided as an outer rotor type.

[0315] FIG. 11 illustrates the internal structure of a circulation duct of another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0316] Referring to FIG. 11(a), the circulation duct (820) may include an inlet duct (821) communicating with an air outlet (231), a moving duct (822) extending from the inlet duct (821) on which the evaporator (910) and condenser (920) are seated, and an exhaust duct (823) extending downward from the moving duct (822) on which it communicates with the air inlet (232).

[0317] The above inlet duct and the above air outlet (231) can be connected through a separate connecting pipe, and the above exhaust duct (823) and the above air inlet (232) can also be connected through a separate connecting part. Both the above connecting pipe and the above connecting part are provided with an elastic material and can form a flow path capable of moving air.

[0318] The above circulation duct (820) may further include a fan housing (824) that accommodates the circulation fan (950). The fan housing (824) may be positioned between the inlet duct (821) and the moving duct (822). For example, the fan housing (824) may be positioned above the inlet duct (821) and at one end or rear of the moving duct (822). In this case, the circulation fan (950) may be positioned above the inlet duct (821).

[0319] The above circulation fan (950) may be provided to be housed in the inlet duct (821) to draw in air inside the tub (230). The above circulation fan (950) may be provided to blow the air drawn into the inlet duct (821) into the moving duct (822).

[0320] The above circulation fan (950) can discharge air toward the above evaporator (910).

[0321] The heat exchanger (900) may include an evaporator (910) seated in the movable duct (822) and a condenser (920) spaced apart from the evaporator (910) toward the exhaust duct (823).

[0322] The above evaporator (910) may be positioned behind the above condenser (920) and close to the circulation fan (950), and the above condenser (920) may be connected to the compressor (930) and the refrigerant pipe (990) to receive high-temperature refrigerant.

[0323] The above evaporator (910) may include a central region (911) corresponding to the center in the width direction. A flow path deflection region, described later, may occur on one side based on the central region (911).

[0324] Referring to FIG. 11(b), the clothing processing device of the present invention may further include a supply nozzle (1300) capable of spraying water onto the evaporator (910) to clean the evaporator (910).

[0325] The supply nozzle (1300) may be provided to receive water from the water supply unit (1000) and spray it onto the evaporator (910). The supply nozzle (1300) may be arranged to extend in the width direction of the evaporator (910) so as to supply water to the entire rear surface of the evaporator (910).

[0326] The above circulation duct (820) may be provided to discharge water condensed in the evaporator (910) and water sprayed into the evaporator (910) back to the drain (180) or the tub (230).

[0327] The rear surface of the evaporator (910) corresponds to the area where it is first exposed to the air introduced from the tub (230). Accordingly, the supply nozzle (1300) can spray water onto the rear of the evaporator (910) to remove foreign matter adhering to the rear surface of the evaporator (910).

[0328] The configuration of the above-mentioned direct water washing unit (1000) may be the same as that of the previously described embodiment.

[0329] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of the structure of the supply nozzle of another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0330] This is merely an example, and the shape and position can be changed as much as necessary as long as the function is the same.

[0331] The above supply nozzle (1300) may include a nozzle case (1310) that provides a flow path for temporarily storing or moving water supplied from the supply pipe (1200), a connecting pipe (1320) that connects the nozzle case (1310) and the supply pipe (1200), and a spraying part (1330) that sprays water supplied to the nozzle case (1310) into the inside of a circulation duct (820).

[0332] The nozzle case (1310) may be provided in a case shape such that the length in the width direction is longer than the width in the front-rear direction. The nozzle case (1310) may form a flow path inside that extends in the width direction of the circulation duct (820).

[0333] The nozzle case (1310) may be positioned so that at least a portion overlaps with the evaporator (910) in the vertical direction. For example, the nozzle case (1310) may be positioned so that at least a portion overlaps with the front surface of the evaporator (910). This allows water supplied to the nozzle case (1310) to clean the evaporator (910).

[0334] The above connecting pipe (1320) may be connected to one end of the nozzle case (1310) to supply water into the nozzle case (1310).

[0335] The nozzle case (1310) may be positioned higher than the evaporator (910). For example, the nozzle case (1310) may be attached to the lower surface of the duct cover (830). Accordingly, the upper part of the nozzle case (1310) may be provided in an open shape.

[0336] Alternatively, the nozzle case (1310) may be seated on the upper surface of the duct cover portion (830). In this case, the supply nozzle (1300) may further include a nozzle cover that shields the upper part of the nozzle case (1310).

[0337] When the duct cover portion (830) is positioned lower than the nozzle case (1310), a through hole may be formed in the duct cover portion (830) at a position corresponding to the spray portion (1330). The spray portion (1330) may be provided to penetrate the nozzle case (1310) so that water supplied to the nozzle case (1310) falls by gravity. Thus, even if the water pressure of the water supplied to the nozzle case (1310) is somewhat weak, a drop is secured so that the water falling from the spray portion (1330) can wash away foreign matter attached to the evaporator (910) by gravity. The spray portion (1330) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the front surface of the evaporator (910).

[0338] The above-mentioned spraying unit (1330) may include a spray hole (1333) that discharges water by penetrating the nozzle case (1310). The spray hole (1333) may be positioned to spray water in the height direction from the front surface of the evaporator (910).

[0339] For example, the injection hole (1333) may be arranged to overlap the front and height direction of the evaporator (910).

[0340] The nozzle case (1310) may include a plurality of flow paths (A, B) that receive water from the main valve (1100), and the plurality of flow paths may be completely partitioned and separated. That is, water supplied to one flow path (A) may be blocked from moving to another flow path (B).

[0341] The supply nozzle (1300) of the clothing processing device of the present invention may be configured to have a plurality of flow paths arranged in the nozzle case (1310) and to supply water independently to each of the plurality of flow paths.

[0342] For example, the supply nozzle (1300) may have a connecting pipe (1320) placed in each of the partitioned passages in the nozzle case (1310), the water supply valve (1100) may have a plurality of supply valves (1120) that independently supply water to a plurality of the connecting pipes (1320), and the supply pipe (1200) may be provided in a plurality to individually connect a plurality of the connecting pipes (1320) and a plurality of supply valves (1120).

[0343] Of course, only one flow path may be formed inside the nozzle case (1310), and multiple nozzle cases (1310) may be provided and arranged in the width direction of the circulation duct (820). However, the following description is based on the assumption that a single nozzle case (1310) is provided and multiple flow paths are arranged inside.

[0344] The supply nozzle (1300) of the clothing processing device of the present invention may have at least two flow paths inside the nozzle case (1310). In the following description, the supply nozzle (1300) of the present invention is described based on the arrangement of two flow paths inside, but this is merely an example, and it is acceptable to arrange three or more flow paths inside.

[0345] The above supply nozzle (1300) may have a connecting pipe (1320) disposed at at least one of the two ends of the nozzle case (1310).

[0346] A plurality of flow paths arranged and partitioned inside the nozzle case (1310) may be arranged along the width direction of the circulation duct (820) or evaporator (910).

[0347] For example, the nozzle case (1310) may include a first flow path (A) configured to spray water in an area adjacent to the connecting pipe (1320), and a second flow path (B) configured to spray water in an area further from the connecting pipe (1320) in the width direction than the first flow path (A).

[0348] The clothing processing device of the present invention can individually supply water to the first flow path (A) and the second flow path (B) provided in the nozzle case (1310) by individually controlling the opening and closing of the first supply valve (1121) and the second supply valve (1122). In this way, when the water pressure or quantity of the external water source is insufficient, the pressure and quantity of water supplied to the first flow path (A) and the second flow path (B) can be secured by selectively and sequentially opening and closing the first supply valve (1121) and the second supply valve (1122).

[0349] The nozzle case (1310) can be formed to extend in the width direction to evenly clean the entire width direction of the circulation duct (820) or the entire front surface of the evaporator (910) as described above.

[0350] Since the nozzle case (1310) is installed in an area positioned above the evaporator (910) and the water supply valve (1100) is installed in an area close to the back of the cabinet (100), it may be reasonable for the supply pipe (1200) to be connected to the back of the nozzle case (1310) facing the water supply valve (1100).

[0351] In this case, a connecting tube (1320) may be formed extending to the rear of the nozzle case (1310).

[0352] Of course, the connecting tube (1320) may also be formed by extending in the extension direction of the nozzle case (1310).

[0353] The supply pipe (1200) may be positioned at a lower position than the upper surface of the duct cover (830) or the circulation duct (820) on one side facing the collection section (860) of the movable duct (822).

[0354] The supply nozzle (1300) of the present invention may include a nozzle flow path (1340) disposed inside the nozzle case (1310) through which water supplied from the connecting pipe (1320) moves.

[0355] The nozzle passage (1340) can be extended from one end of the nozzle case (1310) toward the other end. By doing so, water supplied from one end of the nozzle case (1310) can be delivered to the other end of the nozzle case (1310), and water can be supplied in the width direction of the circulation duct (820).

[0356] All configurations of the nozzle flow path (1340) can be described based on upstream and downstream directions along the direction in which water flows from the connecting pipe (1320).

[0357] The above nozzle passage section (1340) can be divided into multiple sections and arranged inside the nozzle case (1310).

[0358] The supply nozzle (1300) of the present invention may further include a partition wall (1350) that divides the plurality of flow paths to block water from communicating or moving between the plurality of flow paths.

[0359] The nozzle flow path (1340) may include a first flow path (A) that forms a flow path for moving water supplied from the connecting pipe (1320) inside the nozzle case (1310), and a second flow path (B) that is partitioned from the first flow path (A) and forms a flow path for moving water supplied from the connecting pipe (1320).

[0360] The second Euro section (B) above may be arranged in the width direction with respect to the first Euro section (A).

[0361] The second flow path (B) may be configured to move the water supplied from the connecting pipe (1320) further to the other end of the nozzle case (1310) than the first flow path (A).

[0362] The above partition (1350) may be provided to separate the first flow path (A) and the second flow path (B) inside the nozzle case (1310).

[0363] The nozzle passage section (1340) may include a spray passage (1342) that extends in the width direction of the nozzle case (1310) inside the nozzle case (1310) to discharge water.

[0364] When the nozzle passage section (1340) is provided with a plurality of parts, such as a first passage section (A) and a second passage section (B), the injection passage (1342) may include a first injection passage (1342a) disposed in the first passage section (A) and a second injection passage (1342b) disposed in the second passage (B).

[0365] The first injection channel (1342a) and the second injection channel (1342b) can be arranged in the width direction inside the nozzle case (1310).

[0366] The first injection channel (1342a) and the second injection channel (1342b) are arranged side by side in the width direction, so that water can be supplied intensively to the area of ​​the evaporator (910) and the circulation duct (820) that requires the most cleaning.

[0367] The first injection channel (1342a) may be positioned close to one end of the nozzle case (1310), and the second injection channel (1342b) may be positioned close to the other end of the nozzle case (1310).

[0368] The first injection channel (1342a) and the second injection channel (1342b) may be separated by a partition (1350). The partition (1350) may be positioned between the first injection channel (1342a) and the second injection channel (1342b).

[0369] The above connecting pipe (1320) is disposed at one end of the nozzle case (1310) and may be provided to correspond to the number of nozzle passage sections (1340). The above connecting pipe (1320) may include a first connecting pipe (1320a) that supplies water to the first injection passage (1342a) and a second connecting pipe (1320b) that supplies water to the second injection passage (1342b).

[0370] The first connecting pipe (1320a) and the second connecting pipe (1320b) can both be provided in the shape of a pipe protruding from one end of the nozzle case (1310) and can be spaced apart in the front-rear direction.

[0371] The nozzle passage section (1340) of the present invention may further include an inlet passage (1341) disposed between the connecting pipe (1320) and the spray passage (1342) to guide water supplied from the connecting pipe (1320) to the spray passage (1342).

[0372] The above inlet passage (1341) may be blocked from communicating with the outside of the nozzle case (1310), and the above spray passage (1342) may be provided to communicate with the outside of the nozzle case (1310).

[0373] The above inlet channel (1341) may omit the injection section (1330), and the injection section (1330) may be formed only in the injection channel (1342).

[0374] The above inlet channel (1341) extends downstream of the above connecting pipe (1320) and can be positioned upstream of the above injection channel (1342).

[0375] The water supplied when the above water supply valve (1100) is opened may be turbulent flow rather than laminar flow as it passes through the above supply pipe (1200).

[0376] The inlet channel (1341) can be positioned lower than the spray channel (1342). Thus, even if the water flowing in from the connecting pipe (1320) has a high degree of turbulence, the degree of turbulence can be resolved or converted to laminar flow as it collides with or rises inside the inlet channel (1341).

[0377] When the nozzle passage section (1340) is provided in multiple numbers, the inlet passage (1341) may include a first inlet passage (1341a) disposed between the first connecting pipe (1320a) and the first injection passage (1342a), and a second inlet passage (1341b) disposed between the second connecting pipe (1320b) and the second injection passage (1342b).

[0378] Thus, water flowing in from the first connecting pipe (1320a) can be supplied to the first injection path (1342a) through the first inlet path (1341a) and discharged to the first injection hole (1333a), and water flowing in from the second connecting pipe (1320b) can be supplied to the second injection path (1342b) through the second inlet path (1341b) and discharged to the second injection hole (1333b).

[0379] Generally, the water supply valve (1000) may be configured to supply water of the same pressure and quantity to the first inlet passage (1314a) and the second inlet passage (1314b). Additionally, the length of the first injection passage (1342a) and the length of the second injection passage (1342b) may be configured to have the same length (L). Thus, the first passage (A) and the second passage (B) can divide the evaporator (910) and supply water of the same quantity and pressure to each area, and the entire area of ​​the evaporator (910) can be cleaned evenly.

[0380] FIG. 13 illustrates a condition in which a specific area of ​​the evaporator may be more contaminated than other areas.

[0381] FIG. 13(a) illustrates the state of a circulation duct (820) and a heat exchanger (900) formed in one embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention, and FIG. 13(b) illustrates the state of a circulation duct (820) and a heat exchanger (900) formed in a washing machine combined with a dryer in another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0382] Regardless of whether the clothing processing device of the present invention is equipped with a dryer or a washing machine combined with a dryer, the circulation duct (820) can form a flow path that sucks air from the drum (200) and discharges it back into the drum (200).

[0383] The air moving through the circulation duct (820) may pass more through the remaining area (II) of the evaporator than the specific area (I) of the evaporator. As a result, the specific area (I) of the evaporator is exposed more to the air discharged from the drum (200) than the remaining area (II) of the evaporator, so it may be exposed more to foreign substances such as lint and may be more contaminated.

[0384] Generally, a specific region (I) of the evaporator is formed by being positioned close to one side (822a) of the two sides of the circulation duct (820). Accordingly, the specific region (I) of the evaporator is not formed in the middle region of the evaporator (910), but is formed intensively in a region adjacent to one of the two ends of the evaporator (910).

[0385] That is, the specific area (I) can be formed by setting the amount of air passing through per unit time to be greater in the area adjacent to one side of the evaporator (100) facing one side (822a) of the circulation duct (820) than in the area adjacent to the other side of the evaporator (100) facing the other side (822b) of the circulation duct (820).

[0386] The reason the above specific area (I) is formed on one side of the evaporator (910) and in an area adjacent to the one side may be due to at least one of the structure of the circulation duct (820), the arrangement of the circulation fan (950), and the rotational direction of the circulation fan (950).

[0387] For example, since the movable duct (822) accommodates the evaporator (910) and the condenser (920), the width of the movable duct (822) is formed to be longer than the width of the exhaust duct (823), and the exhaust duct (823) may be positioned offset toward one side of the cabinet or one side (822a) of the movable duct from the center of the width of the movable duct (822). As a result, as the air passing through the movable duct (822) moves toward the exhaust duct (823) positioned offset toward one side (822a) of the movable duct, more air can pass through the side of the evaporator (910) adjacent to the side of the movable duct (822a) with a stronger pressure than the other side of the evaporator (910). For example, as in FIG. 13(a), when the moving duct (822) is positioned so as to be offset toward one side of the cabinet (100) rather than the inlet duct (821) and the exhaust duct (823) is positioned so as to be offset toward one side of the cabinet (100) from the moving duct (822), the one side (822a) of the moving duct is positioned closer to one side of the cabinet (100) than the other side (822b) of the moving duct, so it may appear as though the specific area (I) is formed in the area adjacent to one side of the evaporator (910) that is offset toward one side of the cabinet (100).

[0388] Referring to FIG. 13(b), the exhaust duct (823) extends toward the center of the inlet of the tub (230), and the movable duct (822) may be positioned offset from the center of the tub toward the other side of the cabinet (100).

[0389] As a result, the exhaust duct (823) is positioned so as to be offset toward one side (822a) of the two sides of the movable duct (822), and more air can pass through the one side (822a) of the movable duct (822) with greater pressure than the other side (822b) of the movable duct (822).

[0390] Accordingly, a specific area (I) may be formed in an area further away from the side of the cabinet (100) among the two sides of the evaporator (910).

[0391] Consequently, when the exhaust duct (823) is positioned so as to be offset toward one side (822a) of the two sides of the movable duct (822), more air can pass through the area of ​​the evaporator (910) adjacent to one side (822a) of the movable duct (822) than the area adjacent to the other side (822b) of the movable duct, and a specific area (I) can be formed in the area of ​​the evaporator (910) adjacent to one side (822a) of the movable duct (822).

[0392] The reason why a specific region (I) of the above evaporator (910) is formed in an area adjacent to the above one side (822a) can be explained by the rotation of the impeller.

[0393] For example, since the above-mentioned circulation fan (950) generates air flow by rotating an impeller (952) with a circular cross-section, a flow path deflection area may be formed on one side facing the direction in which the impeller (952) rotates to move closer to the sides of the circulation duct (820), such that at least one of the flow rate, flow velocity, and hydraulic pressure is concentrated more than on the other side facing the direction in which the impeller (952) rotates to move away.

[0394] The above Euro-biased region can be regarded as a region corresponding to the above specific region (A). That is, the above specific region (A) can be defined as the Euro-biased region (A).

[0395] The above-mentioned flow path deflection area (A) is generally formed so as to be offset toward one of the two sides of the circulation duct (820). That is, the above-mentioned flow path deflection area (A) can be formed on one side (822a) of the circulation duct, where the flow rate, flow velocity, and hydraulic pressure are greater than on the other side (822b).

[0396] The impeller (952) is configured to rotate and discharge air introduced into the impeller (952) toward the outer surface of the impeller (952). While some of the air on the outer surface of the impeller (952) may be discharged directly toward the discharge duct (823), most of the air discharged in most areas is discharged in a direction unrelated to the discharge duct (823).

[0397] Air discharged in a direction unrelated to the exhaust duct (823) is guided along the inner circumference of the fan housing (824) and, due to centrifugal force, is concentrated on the inner circumference of the fan housing (824) and discharged toward the exhaust duct (823).

[0398] As a result, the area adjacent to the inner surface of the fan housing (824) within the exhaust duct (823) may have a higher hydraulic pressure or a greater flow rate than other areas. In this case, the air moving through the movable duct (822) also forms a streamline corresponding to the exhaust duct (823), and the one side (822a) adjacent to the inner surface of the fan housing (824) among the two sides of the movable duct (822) and the inner surface of the fan housing (824) within the exhaust duct (823) may be set to have at least one of the flow rate and hydraulic pressure higher than the other side (822b).

[0399] As a result, the evaporator (910) allows more air to pass through a specific area (I) adjacent to one side (822a) than the remaining area (II) adjacent to the other side (822b), and more foreign matter may accumulate in the area.

[0400] If the above-mentioned moving duct (822) is positioned offset from the center of the cabinet (100) so as to face one side of the cabinet (100), the degree of contamination in a specific area (I) of the evaporator (910) may be more severe.

[0401] Consequently, as described above, both sides of the circulation duct (820) or both sides of the moving duct (822) can be divided into one side (822a) where a flow path deflection area is formed and the other side (822b) facing said one side.

[0402] Thus, the washing unit (1000) or supply nozzle (1300) of the present invention can effectively remove foreign substances that are washed more intensively in the flow path deflection area (A) by supplying water more intensively per unit time to the area adjacent to the one side (822a) than to the area adjacent to the other side (822b).

[0403] Below, a method of distinguishing one side and the other side of the above-mentioned circulation duct (820) or moving duct (822) through the principle of forming the aforementioned Euro deflection area is explained.

[0404] One side (822a) and the other side (822b) of the above-mentioned moving duct (822) can be defined through one or more of the structure and rotation direction of the impeller (952).

[0405] The method may be applied to all embodiments in which the garment processing device of the present invention is equipped as a dryer or as a washing and drying unit, or in which a circulation fan (950) passes air through the evaporator (910) and the moving duct (822) under negative pressure or supplies air under positive pressure.

[0406] As a result, a specific area (I) and a remaining area (II) of the evaporator (910) can be automatically defined, and a structure of a nozzle section (1300) capable of supplying water more intensively to the specific area (I) and a control method of a washing section (1000) can also be defined. FIG. 14 illustrates a structure in which a circulation fan passes air through the moving duct under negative pressure, as in one embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0407] The above-mentioned circulation fan (950) may include an impeller (952) that is housed in the fan housing (824) and rotates. The impeller (952) may have a circular cross-section and may be configured to draw in air inside and discharge air to the outer surface.

[0408] The above-mentioned fan housing (824) may be provided with a height that is longer than the width in the front-rear and left-right directions.

[0409] The above-mentioned circulation fan (950) may further include a fan shaft (953) capable of rotating the impeller (952) by connecting the fan motor (951), which is fixed to the outside of the fan housing (824), and the impeller (952).

[0410] The above fan shaft (953) can be coupled to the center of the impeller (952) to form the rotation center of the impeller (852).

[0411] The fan shaft (953) may be positioned in the extension direction of the movable duct (822) or in a direction parallel to the ground. Thus, the impeller (952) can draw air from the movable duct (822) into the center and discharge the air through the outer surface including the up and down direction.

[0412] The above fan shaft (953) may be positioned offset to the other side from the central area (911) corresponding to the center of the width direction of the evaporator (910).

[0413] The above impeller (952) may be positioned offset to one side inside the fan housing (824) in the direction in which the fan shaft (953) is connected at the discharge port (8231).

[0414] That is, the impeller (952) may be spaced apart or eccentrically positioned from one side (822a) toward the other side (822b) of the two sides of the movable duct (822) inside the fan housing (824).

[0415] Thus, the impeller (952) can uniformly discharge air in a direction toward the exhaust duct (823) or the exhaust port (8231).

[0416] The above fan housing (824) may include an outer surface positioned to face the circumference of the impeller (952).

[0417] The outer surface of the above-mentioned fan housing (824) may include a guide surface (8241) that guides air discharged from the impeller (952) toward the discharge duct (823), and a guiding surface (8242) that guides air discharged from the impeller (952) toward the guide surface (8241).

[0418] Specifically, the guide surface (8241) corresponds to an area that guides the air inside the fan housing (824) toward the exhaust duct (823), and the guiding surface (8242) corresponds to an area that guides the air inside the fan housing (824) to rotate along the circumference of the impeller (952).

[0419] The above-mentioned guiding surface (8242) may be defined as an area that guides air discharged in a direction different from the above-mentioned exhaust duct (823) to the above-mentioned guiding surface (8241).

[0420] Thus, the area near the guide surface (8241) at the outlet (8231) can discharge more air or air at a higher pressure than the area near the guide surface (8242).

[0421] For example, the area within the inner surface of the fan housing (824) corresponding to the point extending in the width direction from the outlet of the fan housing (824) or the end of the exhaust duct (823) to the fan axis (953) can be defined as a guide surface (8241), and the remaining area within the inner surface of the fan housing (824) can be defined as a guide surface (8242).

[0422] The above-mentioned guide surface (8242) may be positioned closer to the other side (822b) among the two sides of the movable duct (822), and the above-mentioned guide surface (8241) may be positioned closer to the one side (822a) among the two sides of the movable duct (822).

[0423] The guide surface (8241) may be a surface that extends in a straight line or a curve with a very large radius of curvature from the outlet (8231) of the exhaust duct (823), and the guiding surface (8242) may be a surface that extends in a curve or a curve with a very small radius of curvature from the outlet (8231) of the exhaust duct (823).

[0424] Based on the direction in which air is discharged from the impeller (952), the guide surface (8241) is an area positioned downstream of the guide surface (8242), and the guide surface (8242) can be divided into an area that guides the air discharged from the impeller (952) toward the guide surface (8241) or the discharge duct (823).

[0425]

[0426] FIG. 15 illustrates the relationship between the area where air is discharged from the impeller in FIG. 14 and both sides of the moving duct.

[0427] The above impeller (952) is configured to suck in air from the center during the rotation process and discharge air to the circumference or outer surface.

[0428] The air discharged from the impeller (952) is discharged parallel to the tangential direction of the outer surface of the impeller (952) and is discharged to the discharge duct (823) along the inner surface of the fan housing (824).

[0429] For example, when the upper part of the outer surface of the impeller (952) rotates toward the other side (822b) of the moving duct, the air discharged from the upper point or the initial point (1) is discharged in a direction away from the guide surface (8241) or toward the other side (822b) of the moving duct.

[0430] Air discharged from the point closest to the other side (822b) of the moving duct on the outer surface of the impeller (952) or the point furthest from the guide surface (8241), the separation point (2), is discharged in the opposite direction of the discharge duct (823).

[0431] Air discharged from the point (3) opposite the initial point (1) on the outer surface of the impeller (952) is discharged in a direction toward the guide surface (8241) or toward one side (822a) of the moving duct.

[0432] In this way, the air discharged from the impeller (952) is discharged from the outer surface of the impeller (952) in a tangential direction corresponding to the rotational direction of the impeller (952).

[0433] Among the outer surface of the impeller (952), there is only one point (4) that is discharged toward the discharge duct (823), and the point (4) is arranged symmetrically with respect to the separation point (2) and the fan axis (953).

[0434] The point in question can be defined as a reference point (4), and the reference point (4) can be defined as a point where the direction in which air is discharged from the outer surface of the impeller (952) is the same as the direction in which the circulation duct moves.

[0435] The above reference point (4) may correspond to the point closest to the guide surface (8421) or one side (822a) of the moving duct among the outer surface of the impeller (952).

[0436] The guide surface (8241) can be defined as the area corresponding to the area facing the reference point (4) within the perimeter of the fan housing (824) up to the exhaust duct (823), and the guide surface (8242) can be defined as the remaining area within the perimeter of the fan housing (824).

[0437] FIG. 16 illustrates the process in which a flow path deflection region is generated on one side of the moving duct through the impeller in FIG. 14.

[0438] The above impeller (952) can be eccentrically positioned inside the fan housing (824).

[0439] Alternatively, the impeller (952) may be positioned further apart from the central region (911) corresponding to the center of the width of the evaporator (910). Accordingly, the fan shaft (953) of the impeller (952) may be positioned closer to either side of the movable duct (822).

[0440] The two sides of the above-mentioned moving duct (822) can be distinguished based on the position of the above-mentioned impeller (952).

[0441] For example, the above-mentioned side surface (822a) may be defined as a side surface among the two sides of the movable duct (822) where the distance (A1) to the reference point (4) is shorter or closer than the distance (B1) to the fan axis (953).

[0442] The other side (822b) may be defined as one side among the two sides of the movable duct (822) where the distance (A2) to the reference point (4) is longer or further than the distance (B2) to the fan axis (953).

[0443] In another view, the impeller (952) rotates toward the exhaust duct (823) at the reference point (4) and rotates in the opposite direction to the exhaust duct (823) at the separation point (2).

[0444] That is, the direction in which air is discharged from the reference point (4) corresponds to the flow path direction, and the direction in which air is discharged from the separation point (2) is formed opposite to the flow path direction. In addition, since the remaining area of ​​the impeller (952) forms an incline with the flow path direction in which the air of the circulation duct moves, the degree of concentration of at least one of the flow velocity, flow rate, and hydraulic pressure is inevitably weaker than that of the air discharged from the reference point (4) and downstream thereof.

[0445] Accordingly, among the two sides of the circulation duct (822), a flow path deviation area (I) is formed on one side (822a) facing the reference point (4) where the flow velocity, flow rate, and hydraulic pressure are greater than in other areas, and the remaining area (II) of the flow path deviation area is formed on the other side (822b) facing the separation point (2).

[0446] In this regard, the above-mentioned one side (822a) can be defined as being positioned in the direction (d) toward the central area (911) of the evaporator (910) from the fan axis (953) among the two sides of the circulation duct (820), and the above-mentioned other side (822b) can be defined as facing the above-mentioned one side (822a).

[0447] FIG. 17 illustrates the structure when a circulating fan passes air through the moving duct under positive pressure, as in another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention.

[0448] The above fan housing (824) may be positioned above the inlet duct (821) and may be provided in communication with either end of the movable duct (822). The width of the fan housing (824) in the front-rear and left-right directions may be longer than its height.

[0449] The fan shaft (953) may be positioned in an up-and-down direction or a vertical direction. The impeller (952) may be configured to draw in air from the center of the inlet duct (821) or inside the drum (200) and discharge the air to the outer surface including the front-back and left-right directions.

[0450] The above fan housing (824) may include an outer surface positioned to face the circumference of the impeller (952).

[0451] The above-mentioned fan housing (824) may be spaced apart or eccentrically positioned from one side (822a) of the two sides of the movable duct (822) toward the other side (822b).

[0452] Accordingly, the impeller (952) may be spaced apart or eccentrically positioned from one side (822a) toward the other side (822b) of the two sides of the movable duct (822) inside the fan housing (824).

[0453] The outer surface of the above-mentioned fan housing (824) may include a guide surface (8241) that guides air discharged from the impeller (952) toward the discharge duct (823), and a guiding surface (8242) that guides air discharged from the impeller (952) toward the guide surface (8241).

[0454] Specifically, the guide surface (8241) corresponds to an area that guides the air inside the fan housing (824) toward the moving duct (822) or the exhaust duct (823), and the guiding surface (8242) corresponds to an area that guides the air inside the fan housing (824) to rotate along the circumference of the impeller (952).

[0455] The above-mentioned guiding surface (8242) may be defined as an area that guides air discharged in a different direction from the above-mentioned moving duct (822) to the above-mentioned guiding surface (8241).

[0456] For example, the area within the inner surface of the fan housing (824) corresponding to the point extending in the width direction from the outlet of the fan housing (824) or the end of the moving duct (822) to the fan axis (953) can be defined as a guide surface (8241), and the remaining area within the inner surface of the fan housing (824) can be defined as a guide surface (8242).

[0457] The above impeller (952) is configured to suck in air from the center during the rotation process and discharge air to the circumference or outer surface.

[0458] The air discharged from the impeller (952) is discharged parallel to the tangential direction of the outer surface of the impeller (952), discharged along the inner surface of the fan housing (824) into the moving duct (822), and moves toward the discharge duct (823).

[0459] For example, if a point (1) or initial point (1) on the outer surface of the impeller (952) that is close to the starting point of the inlet surface (8241) rotates toward the other side (822b) of the moving duct, the air discharged from the initial point (1) is discharged in a direction away from the guide surface (8241) or toward the other side (822b) of the moving duct.

[0460] The air discharged from the separation point (2), which is the point furthest from the guide surface (8241) on the outer surface of the impeller (952), is discharged in the opposite direction toward the moving duct (822) or the discharge duct (823).

[0461] Air discharged from the point (3) opposite the initial point (1) on the outer surface of the impeller (952) is discharged in a direction toward the guide surface (8241) or toward one side (822a) of the moving duct.

[0462] In this way, the air discharged from the impeller (952) is discharged from the outer surface of the impeller (952) in a tangential direction corresponding to the rotational direction of the impeller (952).

[0463] Among the outer surface of the impeller (952), there is only one point (4) where the area discharged toward the moving duct (822) or the discharge duct (823) is located, and the point (4) is arranged symmetrically with respect to the separation point (2) and the fan axis (953).

[0464] The point in question can be defined as a reference point (4), and the reference point (4) can be defined as a point where the direction in which air is discharged from the outer surface of the impeller (952) is the same as the direction in which the circulation duct moves.

[0465] The above reference point (4) may correspond to the point closest to the guide surface (8421) or one side (822a) of the moving duct among the outer surface of the impeller (952).

[0466] The guide surface (8241) can be defined as the area corresponding to the area facing the reference point (4) within the perimeter of the fan housing (824) up to the exhaust duct (823), and the guide surface (8242) can be defined as the remaining area within the perimeter of the fan housing (824).

[0467] FIG. 18 illustrates the criteria defining both sides of the moving duct through the impeller in FIG. 17.

[0468] The two sides of the above-mentioned moving duct (822) can be distinguished based on the position of the above-mentioned impeller (952).

[0469] For example, the above-mentioned side surface (822a) may be defined as a side surface among the two sides of the movable duct (822) where the distance (A1) to the reference point (4) is shorter or closer than the distance (B1) to the fan axis (953).

[0470] The other side (822b) may be defined as one side among the two sides of the movable duct (822) where the distance (A2) to the reference point (4) is longer or further than the distance (B2) to the fan axis (953).

[0471] In another view, the impeller (952) rotates toward the exhaust duct (823) at the reference point (4) and rotates in the opposite direction to the exhaust duct (823) at the separation point (2).

[0472] That is, the direction in which air is discharged from the reference point (4) corresponds to the flow path direction, and the direction in which air is discharged from the separation point (2) is formed opposite to the flow path direction. In addition, since the remaining area of ​​the impeller (952) forms an incline with the flow path direction in which the air of the circulation duct moves, the degree of concentration of at least one of the flow velocity, flow rate, and hydraulic pressure is inevitably weaker than that of the air discharged from the reference point (4) and downstream thereof.

[0473] Additionally, the impeller (952) rotates so as to move closer to the one side (822a) from the reference point (4), and rotates so as to move away from the initial point (1), the separation point (2), and the one side (822a). Furthermore, the air discharged from the opposite point (3) is discharged in a direction independent of the flow path of the air moving in the movable duct (822).

[0474] Accordingly, the air discharged from the reference point (4) can move further toward the moving duct (822) without pressure drop, as it is in the same direction as the flow path. Accordingly, at least one of the flow velocity, flow rate, and hydraulic pressure can be concentrated on one side (822a) of the moving duct (822) facing the reference point (4) compared to the other side (822b).

[0475] Additionally, air reaching the reference point (4) from another point of the impeller (952) is combined with the air discharged from the reference point (4), so it can be further concentrated in the direction of one side (822a) of the moving duct (822).

[0476] Accordingly, among the two sides of the circulation duct (822), a flow path deviation area (I) is formed on one side (822a) facing the reference point (4) where the flow velocity, flow rate, and hydraulic pressure are greater than in other areas, and the remaining area (II) of the flow path deviation area is formed on the other side (822b) facing the separation point (2).

[0477] In this regard, the above-mentioned one side (822a) can be defined as being positioned in the direction (d) toward the central area (911) of the evaporator (910) from the fan axis (953) among the two sides of the circulation duct (820), and the above-mentioned other side (822b) can be defined as facing the above-mentioned one side (822a).

[0478] Consequently, more foreign matter may accumulate in the area adjacent to one side (822a) of the movable duct (822) which is positioned closer to the exhaust duct (823) among the evaporators (910) than in the area adjacent to the other side (822b) of the movable duct (822) which is positioned further away from the exhaust duct (823), and a larger amount of water may be required to clean it.

[0479] To this end, the supply nozzle (1300) of the present invention may be configured to spray a larger amount of water per unit area in a specific area (I) of the evaporator (910) than in the remaining area (II) of the evaporator (910), or to spray water at a higher pressure.

[0480] As shown in FIG. 13(a), when the discharge duct (823) is positioned offset toward one side of the cabinet from the center of the width of the movable duct (822), the supply nozzle (1300) may be provided to spray a larger amount of water per unit area or spray water at a higher pressure on one side (A) of the evaporator (910) adjacent to one side of the cabinet than on the other side (B) of the evaporator (910) spaced apart from one side of the cabinet.

[0481] If one side of the cabinet is a side surface, the other side of the cabinet may correspond to the other side facing the one side surface, and if one side of the cabinet is a front surface, the other side of the cabinet may correspond to a back surface.

[0482] As shown in FIG. 13(b), when the discharge duct (823) is positioned so as to be offset toward one side (822a) of the two sides of the movable duct (822), the supply nozzle (1300) may be configured to spray a larger amount of water per unit area or spray water at a higher pressure on one side (A) of the evaporator (910) adjacent to one side of the movable duct (822) than on the other side (B) of the evaporator adjacent to the other side of the movable duct (822).

[0483] Thus, more cleaning water is supplied to a specific area (I) of the evaporator (910) where the air passage speed is fast and the flow rate is high, so that foreign substances are effectively removed from the specific area (I) of the evaporator (910), thereby allowing the entire evaporator (910) to be maintained in a clean state.

[0484] FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment of a supply nozzle capable of supplying a larger amount of water or water at a higher pressure to a specific area of ​​the evaporator than to the remaining area.

[0485] The above supply nozzle (1300) may have the same structure as described above.

[0486] The length of the first injection channel (1342a) in the supply nozzle (1300) may be formed differently from the length of the second injection channel (1342b).

[0487] The amount, pressure, and flow rate of water supplied by the above water supply valve (1100) to the first connecting pipe (1320a) and the first inlet water passage (1341a) can be set to be the same as the amount, pressure, and flow rate of water supplied to the above second connecting pipe (1320b) and the second inlet water passage (1341b).

[0488] In this state, if the lengths of the first injection channel (1342a) and the second injection channel (1342b) are set differently, the volumes of the first injection channel (1342a) and the second injection channel (1342b) may differ, and the water pressure of the first injection channel (1342a) and the second injection channel (1342b) may differ.

[0489] For example, if the first injection channel (1342a) is provided with a first length (L1) and the second injection channel (1342b) is provided with a length longer than the first length and longer than the second length (L2), then the first injection channel (1342a) can supply a larger amount of water per unit area than the second injection channel (1342b).

[0490] As a result, water with a stronger water pressure can be discharged into the first injection hole (1333a) formed in the first injection channel (1342a) than into the second injection hole (1333b) formed in the second injection channel (1342a).

[0491] The first injection hole (1333a) formed in the first injection channel (1342a) and the second injection hole (1333b) formed in the second injection channel (1342a) can be formed with the same density and spacing.

[0492] That is, the number of first injection holes (1333a) per unit area of ​​the first injection channel (1342a) can be set to be the same as the number of second injection holes of the second injection channel (1342b).

[0493] In addition, the area or diameter of the first injection hole (1333a) may be formed to be the same as the area or diameter of the second injection hole (1333b).

[0494] In this case as well, since a larger amount of water per unit area is supplied to the first injection channel (1342a) than to the second injection channel (1342b), the first injection hole (1333a) can discharge water at a higher pressure or more per unit area than the second injection hole (1333b).

[0495] The first injection channel (1342a) is positioned to spray water into a specific area (I) of the evaporator, and the second injection channel (1342b) can be positioned to spray water into the remaining area (II) of the evaporator.

[0496] FIG. 20 illustrates another embodiment of a supply nozzle capable of supplying a larger amount of water or water at a higher pressure to a specific area of ​​the evaporator than to the remaining area.

[0497] The number of first injection holes (1333a) per unit area in the first injection channel (1342a) may be arranged in greater numbers than the number of second injection holes (1333b) per unit area in the second injection channel (1342b). For example, the spacing of the first injection holes (1333a) may be spaced apart by a first spacing (G1), while the spacing of the second injection holes (1333b) may be spaced apart by a second spacing (G2) that is wider than the first spacing (G1).

[0498] As a result, water can be sprayed more densely in the first spray channel (1342a) than in the second spray channel (1342b). If the first spray channel (1342a) is configured to spray water onto a specific area (I), the specific area (I) can be cleaned more precisely.

[0499] Of course, in this case as well, the area or diameter of the first injection hole (1333a) can be formed to be the same as the area or diameter of the second injection hole (1333b).

[0500] Additionally, as in the previously described embodiment, the supply nozzle (1300) may be formed such that the length of the first injection channel (1342a) is different from the length of the second injection channel (1342b). For example, the length of the first injection channel (1342a) may be provided as a first length (L1), and the length of the second injection channel (1342b) may be provided as a second length (L2) which is longer than the first length (L2).

[0501] Since the widths of the first injection channel (1342a) and the second injection channel (1342b) are set to be the same, if the same amount of water is supplied per unit time, higher pressure and water can be supplied to the first injection channel (1342a) than to the second injection channel (1342b).

[0502] Therefore, even if the total area of ​​the first injection hole (1333a) is larger than that of the second injection hole (1333b), the pressure and volume of water supplied to the first injection channel (1342a) can compensate for this. As a result, water is discharged from the first injection hole (1333a) at the same flow rate and pressure as the second injection hole (1333b), or water is sprayed at a faster flow rate or higher pressure than that of the second injection hole (1333b), so that a specific area (I) can be cleaned more effectively than the remaining area (II).

[0503] FIG. 21 illustrates another embodiment of a supply nozzle capable of supplying a larger amount or higher water pressure to a specific area of ​​the evaporator than to the remaining area.

[0504] The first injection channel (1342a) is provided with a first length (L1), and the second injection channel (1342b) may be provided with a length greater than the first length and greater than the second length (L2).

[0505] Thus, the first injection channel (1342a) can supply a larger amount of water per unit area than the second injection channel (1342b).

[0506] At this time, the area or diameter of the first injection hole (1333a) may be formed to be larger than the area or diameter of the second injection hole (1333b).

[0507] That is, the diameter of the first injection hole (1333a) is formed as a first diameter (D1), and the diameter of the second injection hole (1333b) can be formed as a second diameter (D2) that is smaller than the first diameter.

[0508] The number of first injection holes (1333a) per unit area of ​​the first injection channel (1333a) may be formed to be fewer than the number of second injection holes (1333b) per unit area of ​​the second injection channel (1333b).

[0509] Thus, even if the first injection hole (1333a) is formed larger than the second injection hole (1333b), the total area of ​​the first injection hole (1333a) can be prevented from being excessively expanded compared to the total area of ​​the second injection hole (1333b).

[0510] Accordingly, high-pressure water can be smoothly sprayed through the first spray hole (1333a). The first spray channel (1342a) may be positioned above a specific area (I) of the evaporator, and the second spray channel (1342b) may be positioned above the remaining area (II) of the evaporator. Thus, the specific area (I) of the evaporator (910) can be cleaned more effectively than the remaining area (II).

[0511] FIG. 22 illustrates a final embodiment of a supply nozzle capable of supplying a larger amount or higher water pressure to a specific area of ​​the evaporator than to the remaining area.

[0512] The length of the first injection channel (1342a) can be formed to be the same as the length of the second injection channel (1342b). That is, the length of the first injection channel (1342a) and the length of the second injection channel (1342b) can be provided as half the length (L3) of the nozzle case (1310).

[0513] However, the number of first injection holes (1333a) per unit area in the first injection channel (1342a) may be formed to be less than the number of second injection holes (1333b) per unit area in the second injection channel (1342b).

[0514] The spacing of the first injection hole (1333a) can be spaced apart by a third spacing (G3), and the spacing of the second injection hole (1333b) can be spaced apart by a first spacing (G1) that is narrower than the third spacing.

[0515] In addition, the area or diameter of the first injection hole (1333a) may be formed to be the same as the area or diameter of the second injection hole (1333b).

[0516] As a result, the total area of ​​the first injection hole (1333a) in the first injection channel (1342a) may be formed to be smaller than the total area of ​​the second injection hole (1333b) in the second injection channel (1342b), and at least one of the water pressure, water volume, and flow velocity injected in the first injection hole (1333a) may be set to be greater than at least one of the water pressure, water volume, and flow velocity injected in the second injection hole (1333b).

[0517] The first injection channel (1342a) may be positioned above a specific area (I) of the evaporator, and the second injection channel (1342b) may be positioned above the remaining area (II) of the evaporator. Thus, the specific area (I) of the evaporator (910) can be cleaned more effectively than the remaining area (II).

[0518] FIG. 23 illustrates a method for controlling a water supply valve that can supply a larger amount of water or water at a higher pressure to a specific area of ​​the evaporator than to the remaining area.

[0519] Referring to FIG. 23(a), the supply nozzle (1300) may be configured to spray water for a longer period in a specific area (I) of the evaporator (910) than in the remaining area (B) of the evaporator (910). This allows for effective cleaning even if more foreign matter has accumulated in the specific area (I) of the evaporator (910).

[0520] In this case, even if the pressure, quantity, and speed of the water supplied to the first connecting pipe (1320a) supplying water to the first injection path and the second connecting pipe (1320b) supplying water to the second injection path are the same, if the length of the first injection path (1342a) is shorter than the length of the second injection path (1342b), then a specific area (I) of the evaporator (910) can be supplied with higher pressure, higher speed, and a larger amount of water for a longer period of time than the remaining area (B) of the evaporator (920). Accordingly, the cleaning power of the supply nozzle (1300) cleaning the specific area (I) of the evaporator (910) can be further enhanced.

[0521] However, even if the length of the first injection channel (1342a) is the same as the length of the second injection channel (1342b), the supply nozzle (1300) is set to spray water for a longer period in a specific area (I) of the evaporator (910) than in the remaining area (B) of the evaporator (910), so that the specific area (I) of the evaporator (910) can be sufficiently cleaned.

[0522] To this end, the water supply valve (1100) can be controlled to spray water into the first flow path (A) for a longer period of time than the second flow path (B). To this end, the supply pipe (1200) may include a first supply pipe (1200a) in which one end is connected to the first supply valve (1121) of the water supply valve (1100) and the other end is connected to the first connecting pipe (1320a), and a second supply pipe (1200b) in which one end is connected to the second supply valve (1122) and the other end is connected to the second connecting pipe (1320b).

[0523] When the first supply valve (1121) is opened, water is supplied to the first injection passage (1342a) and discharged through the first injection hole (1333a), and when the second supply valve (1122) is opened, water is supplied to the second injection passage (1342) and discharged through the second injection hole (1333b).

[0524] The first injection channel (1342a) may be positioned above a specific area (I) of the evaporator, and the second injection channel (1342b) may be positioned above the remaining area (II) of the evaporator.

[0525] When cleaning of the above evaporator (910) is required or when a cleaning process of the above evaporator (910) is performed, the first supply valve (1121) is opened and closed for a first time (t1), and the second supply valve (1122) can be opened and closed for a second time (t2) shorter than the first time.

[0526] As a result, water can be sprayed for a longer period in a specific area (I) adjacent to one side of the evaporator (910) than in the remaining area (B) adjacent to the other side of the evaporator (920). As a result, foreign matter adhering to the specific area (I) of the evaporator (910) is cleaned more intensively, so that the entire evaporator (910) can be kept clean.

[0527] Meanwhile, the first supply valve (1121) and the second supply valve (1122) can be controlled to open sequentially rather than simultaneously. This ensures that the amount of water sprayed per unit time in the specific area (I) and the remaining area (II) is sufficient to produce a cleaning effect.

[0528] Referring to FIG. 23(b), the first supply valve (1121) and the second supply valve (1122) can be opened alternately. That is, the water supply valve (1100) can alternately spray water for a first time (t1) into the first injection path (1342a) and supply water for a second time (t2) shorter than the first time (t1) into the second injection path (1342b).

[0529] The present invention may be modified and implemented in various forms, and its scope of rights is not limited to the embodiments described above. Therefore, if a modified embodiment includes the components of the claims of the present invention, it should be considered to fall within the scope of rights of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cabinet having an opening at the front; A drum for receiving clothing inserted into the above opening; A circulation duct forming a flow path through which air inside the drum circulates from the outside; A heat exchanger comprising an evaporator installed inside the above-mentioned circulation duct to cool the air, and a condenser to heat the air that has passed through the evaporator; A circulation fan comprising an impeller configured to rotate inside the above circulation duct to move air; It includes a supply nozzle arranged in the width direction of the evaporator and spraying water supplied from an external water source into the circulation duct. The above circulation duct has a flow path deflection region formed on one of the two sides, wherein at least one of the flow rate, hydraulic pressure, and flow velocity is greater than on the other side depending on the rotation direction of the impeller. The above supply nozzle is A clothing processing device characterized by being configured to spray a larger amount of water per unit area in an area adjacent to one side than in an area adjacent to the other side.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above circulation fan is It further includes a motor that rotates the impeller and a fan shaft that connects the motor and the impeller. A clothing processing device characterized in that the above-mentioned one-sided surface is positioned in the direction extending from the fan axis toward the center of the evaporator among the two sides of the circulation duct.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above circulation fan is It further includes a motor that rotates the impeller and a fan shaft that connects the motor and the impeller. A clothing processing device characterized in that the above-mentioned one-sided surface is positioned in an area facing the direction in which the impeller rotates so as to move closer to the fan axis among the two sides of the circulation duct.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above circulation fan is It further includes a motor that rotates the impeller and a fan shaft that connects the motor and the impeller. The above circulation duct A movable duct in which the above evaporator and the above condenser are installed, and An inlet duct through which air flows from the above drum to the above moving duct, and It includes an exhaust duct through which air is discharged from the above-mentioned moving duct to the above-mentioned drum, and The above-mentioned one side is At the above fan axis A region of the outer surface of the impeller that rotates closer to the exhaust duct, relative to the fan axis, is positioned in a direction. A clothing processing device characterized by having one side of the above-mentioned movable duct.

5. In Paragraph 4, A clothing processing device characterized by the above impeller being positioned between the inlet duct and the moving duct.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above supply nozzle is A nozzle body arranged in the width direction of the above-mentioned evaporator, and It includes a plurality of spray holes that discharge the water by penetrating the nozzle body, and The number of injection holes per unit area adjacent to the above-mentioned side is A clothing processing device characterized by being formed with a greater number of injection holes per unit area than the number of injection holes adjacent to the other side.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above supply nozzle is A nozzle body arranged in the width direction of the above-mentioned evaporator, and It includes a plurality of spray holes that discharge the water by penetrating the nozzle body, and The total area per unit area of ​​the injection hole adjacent to the above-mentioned side is A clothing processing device characterized by being formed with a larger area per unit area than the total area of ​​the injection hole adjacent to the other side.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above supply nozzle is A first flow path section comprising a first injection path extending from one side of the evaporator toward the other side, a plurality of first injection holes for injecting water moving through the first injection path into the evaporator, and a first connecting pipe for supplying water to the first injection path from an external water supply source, A second flow path section comprising a second injection path extending toward the first injection path from the other side of the evaporator, a plurality of second injection holes for injecting water moving through the second injection path into the evaporator, and a second connecting pipe for supplying water to the second injection path from an external water supply source. A clothing processing device characterized by arranging more first injection holes per unit area than second injection holes per unit area.

9. In Paragraph 8, A clothing processing device characterized in that the spacing of the first injection holes is narrower than the spacing of the second injection holes.

10. In Paragraph 8, A clothing processing device characterized in that the diameter of the first injection hole and the diameter of the second injection hole are formed to be the same as each other.

11. In Paragraph 8, A clothing processing device characterized in that the diameter of each of the first injection holes is formed to be smaller than the diameter of each of the second injection holes.

12. In Paragraph 8, A clothing processing device characterized in that the length of the first injection channel is formed to be shorter than the length of the second injection channel.

13. In Paragraph 8, A clothing processing device characterized in that the length of the first injection channel is set to be the same as the length of the second injection channel.

14. In Paragraph 8, It further includes a water supply valve coupled to the cabinet above and supplying water from an external water source to the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe, and The above water supply valve is A clothing processing device characterized by being controlled to supply water to the first connecting pipe for a longer period than to the second connecting pipe.

15. In Paragraph 14, The above water supply valve is Water is supplied to the first connecting pipe for a first time, and A clothing processing device characterized by being controlled to alternately supply water for a second time shorter than a first time to the second connecting pipe.

16. A cabinet having an opening at the front; A drum for receiving clothing inserted into the above opening; A circulation duct forming a flow path through which air inside the drum circulates from the outside; A heat exchanger comprising an evaporator installed inside the above-mentioned circulation duct to cool the air, and a condenser to heat the air that has passed through the evaporator; A circulation fan comprising an impeller configured to rotate inside the above circulation duct to move air; It includes a supply nozzle arranged in the width direction of the evaporator and spraying water supplied from an external water source into the circulation duct. The above circulation fan is It further includes a motor that rotates the impeller and a fan shaft that connects the motor and the impeller. The above supply nozzle is In an area adjacent to one side of the two sides of the above circulation duct that is positioned in the direction of extension from the fan axis toward the center of the evaporator, Compared to the area adjacent to the other side facing the above-mentioned one side A clothing treatment device characterized by being equipped to spray a larger amount of water per unit area.

17. A cabinet having an opening at the front; A drum for receiving clothing inserted into the above opening; A circulation duct forming a flow path through which air inside the drum circulates from the outside; A heat exchanger comprising an evaporator installed inside the above-mentioned circulation duct to cool the air, and a condenser to heat the air that has passed through the evaporator; A circulation fan comprising an impeller configured to rotate inside the above circulation duct to move air; A supply nozzle comprising a plurality of injection holes arranged in the width direction of the evaporator and spraying water supplied from an external water source into the circulation duct; The number of injection holes per unit area adjacent to one end of the supply nozzle or the total area of ​​the injection holes per unit area is, A clothing processing device characterized by being formed larger than the number of spray holes per unit area or the total area of ​​spray holes per unit area adjacent to the other end of the supply nozzle.

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