KR20230172891A - Apparatus for treating laundry - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a clothing treatment device. In one embodiment, a clothing treatment device includes: a washing machine having a front panel on the front side and a first drum in which clothes are stored; a dryer disposed above the washing machine, provided with a dryer front panel on the front side, and provided with a second drum for storing clothes therein; and a control panel provided between the washing machine front panel and the dryer front panel, and comprising a user interface (UI) for at least one of the washing machine and the dryer, wherein the control panel includes: a washing machine operation UI for operating the washing machine. and a flat panel display capable of displaying any one of a dryer operation UI for operating the dryer; and a switch button, wherein when the input of the switch button is received while the washing machine control UI is displayed on the flat panel display, the flat panel display displays the dryer control UI, and the dryer control UI is displayed on the flat panel display. When is displayed and an input of the switch button is received, the flat display displays the washing machine operation UI.

Description

Clothing processing equipment {APPARATUS FOR TREATING LAUNDRY}

The present invention relates to a clothing treatment device.

A laundry treatment device is a device that puts laundry, such as clothes and bedding, into a drum and performs necessary treatments on the laundry, such as removing contamination on the laundry or drying it.

When a clothing treatment device is equipped to remove contamination from laundry, the clothing treatment device can perform processes such as washing, rinsing, dehydration, and drying. A clothing treatment device may include a cabinet that forms the exterior, a tub accommodated inside the cabinet, a drum rotatably mounted inside the tub into which laundry is placed, and a detergent supply device that supplies detergent to the inside of the drum. When the drum is rotated by a motor while washing water is supplied to the laundry contained in the drum, dirt on the laundry can be removed by friction between the drum and the washing water.

When a laundry treatment device is provided to dry laundry, the laundry treatment device can remove moisture from the laundry by providing dry air to the laundry. The laundry treatment device may include a cabinet, a drum rotatably provided inside the cabinet, and a heating means for heating or drying air provided to the laundry. By supplying dry air to the laundry contained in the drum, moisture present in the laundry is evaporated and removed by the dry air, thereby removing moisture from the laundry.

Publication document KR 10-2008-0021921 A1 shows a clothing treatment device equipped with a plurality of treatment devices. The laundry treatment device has a washing machine on the upper side and a dryer on the lower side. Additionally, a structure in which a washing machine and a dryer have respective operation units and display units is disclosed.

However, the laundry treatment device disclosed in the above-mentioned public document discloses a structure in which a plurality of distinct processing devices have respective operation units and display units. In this case, the user must check the status of each of the plurality of processing devices, and the plurality of processing devices must be processed separately. Each device must be operated individually, and it may be disadvantageous to operate the plurality of processing devices in conjunction with each other.

Therefore, in a clothing processing device equipped with a plurality of processing devices, the user's convenience is improved in checking or operating the operating status of the plurality of processing devices, and the arrangement relationship between the efficient configurations of the plurality of processing devices is stable and Presenting effective coupling relationships becomes an important task.

In the case where a control panel capable of controlling all of the plurality of processing devices constituting the laundry processing device is provided, a first button for activating a user interface for controlling the washing machine and a first light emission for displaying the activation state of the first button An element (e.g., LED), a second button to activate the user interface for controlling the dryer, and a second light emitting element to display the activation state of the second button are provided, but to display the activation state of the processing device, 2 As the number of buttons was provided, a lot of physical display space was required, and two light emitting devices were also required, resulting in high manufacturing costs. The present invention can provide a simple and clear design by reducing the physical display space for displaying the activation state of the processing device, and can reduce the manufacturing cost by reducing the number of light emitting elements. The purpose is to provide a device.

The present invention provides a user interface to a control panel that can control all of the plurality of processing devices that make up the clothing processing device, and can implement a simple user interface and provide interior effects when placed in an installation environment. The purpose is to provide a clothing processing device.

The present invention provides a user interface to a control panel capable of controlling all of a plurality of processing devices constituting a clothing processing device, by displaying an activated user interface on a touch display and determining which processing device the activated user interface is connected to. The purpose is to provide a highly intuitive clothing processing device that can be visually recognized by the user.

The present invention provides a layout structure that can reduce misrecognition of touch input due to moisture in providing a user interface to a control panel that can control all of the plurality of processing devices that make up a clothing processing device.

The problem to be solved by the present invention is not limited here, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

The present invention provides a clothing treatment device. In one embodiment, a clothing treatment device includes: a washing machine having a front panel on the front side and a first drum in which clothes are stored; a dryer disposed above the washing machine, provided with a dryer front panel on the front side, and provided with a second drum for storing clothes therein; and a control panel provided between the washing machine front panel and the dryer front panel, and comprising a user interface (UI) for at least one of the washing machine and the dryer, wherein the control panel includes: a washing machine operation UI for operating the washing machine. and a flat panel display capable of displaying any one of a dryer operation UI for operating the dryer; and a switch button, wherein when the input of the switch button is received while the washing machine control UI is displayed on the flat panel display, the flat panel display displays the dryer control UI, and the dryer control UI is displayed on the flat panel display. When is displayed and an input of the switch button is received, the flat display displays the washing machine operation UI.

In one embodiment, the switch button may be activated when both the washing machine and the dryer are turned on.

In one embodiment, the switch button may be deactivated when the power of at least one of the washing machine and the dryer is turned off.

In one embodiment, the switch button may be activated when one of the washing machine and the dryer is in operation and the other one is turned on.

A laundry treatment apparatus according to an embodiment according to another aspect of the present invention includes a washing machine provided with a front panel on the front side and a first drum in which clothes are accommodated; a dryer disposed above the washing machine, provided with a dryer front panel on the front side, and provided with a second drum for storing clothes therein; and a control panel provided between the washing machine front panel and the dryer front panel, and comprising a user interface (UI) for at least one of the washing machine and the dryer, wherein the control panel includes: a washing machine operation UI for operating the washing machine. and a flat panel display capable of displaying any one of a dryer operation UI for operating the dryer; And it is activated when both the washing machine and the dryer are turned on.

In one embodiment, the control panel may include: a touch film positioned on the front of the flat panel display.

In one embodiment, the flat display constitutes one of the display portions of the user interface (UI), and the touch film constitutes one of the input portions of the user interface (UI).

In one embodiment, the switch button may be arranged to occupy a different area from the touch film.

In one embodiment, the switch button may be provided as a touch sensor separate from the touch film.

In one embodiment, the control panel includes a power button that receives a user input for turning on or off the power of the washing machine or the dryer; and a run button that receives a user input for executing or pausing operation of the washing machine or dryer. The power button and the run button may be provided as a touch sensor separate from the touch film.

In one embodiment, it may further include a light emitting device disposed behind the switch button to display an activation state of the switch button.

In one embodiment, the light emitting device may emit light while the switch button is activated.

In one embodiment, the light emitting device may turn off light emission when the switch button is in a deactivated state.

In one embodiment, when the other of the washing machine operation UI and the dryer operation UI is displayed on the flat panel display by inputting the switch button, and no input is received from the user for more than a preset time, the flat panel display Either the washing machine operation UI or the dryer operation UI can be displayed again.

In one embodiment, the switch button may be deactivated if no user input is received for more than a preset time while in the activated state.

In one embodiment, an indicator indicating the current operation target among the washing machine and the dryer may be output on the flat display.

In one embodiment, the indicator may be displayed in a first form in the washing machine operation UI, and may be displayed in a second form that is distinct from the first form in the dryer operation UI.

In one embodiment, the washing machine operation UI displays one or more characters in a first character color that is distinct from the basic character color, and the dryer operation UI displays one or more characters in the basic character color and the first character color. It can be displayed with a distinct second letter color.

In one embodiment, the flat panel display may further display a composite UI in which operation information of the washing machine and operation information of the dryer are displayed on one screen.

In one embodiment, the composite UI of claim 19 may be displayed when both the washing machine and the dryer are in operation.

In one embodiment, the switch button may be deactivated while the complex UI is displayed.

In one embodiment, the complex UI includes a first area and a second area that is different from the first area, and operation information of the washing machine is displayed in the first area,

Operation information of the dryer may be displayed in the second area.

In one embodiment, the laundry treatment device displays the washing machine operation UI on the flat panel display when a user touch input for the first area is received, and when a user touch input for the second area is received, The dryer operation UI can be displayed on the flat display.

In one embodiment, the first area may be an upper area of the complex UI, and the second area may be a lower area of the complex UI.

In one embodiment, the control panel may further include an execution button that receives a user input to execute or pause operation of the washing machine or dryer.

In one embodiment, the run button includes: a first run button that receives a user input to run or pause operation of the washing machine; and a second execution button that receives a user input to execute or pause operation of the dryer.

In one embodiment, the control panel further includes: a power button that receives a user input for turning on/off the power of the washing machine or the dryer, and the flat panel display is different from the power button. It can be arranged to occupy an area.

In one embodiment, the power button may be provided at a position spaced apart from the flat panel display in one direction, and the switch button may be located between the power button and the flat panel display.

In one embodiment, it further includes an execution button that receives a user input to execute or pause operation of the washing machine or the dryer, The execution button may be provided at a location spaced apart from the flat display in the other direction.

In one embodiment, the power button includes: a first power button that receives a user input for turning the washing machine on and off; And it may include a second power button that receives a user input for turning the dryer on and off.

In one embodiment, when a user's input to turn on the power of the washing machine is received from the first power button, the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the flat display to enable control of the washing machine, and the second power button is pressed. When receiving a user's input to turn on the power of the dryer, the dryer operation UI can be displayed on the flat display to enable control of the dryer.

A laundry treatment apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention includes a washing machine having a front panel on the front side and a first drum in which clothes are stored; a dryer disposed above the washing machine, provided with a dryer front panel on the front side, and provided with a second drum for storing clothes therein; and a control panel provided between the washing machine front panel and the dryer front panel, and comprising a user interface (UI) for at least one of the washing machine and the dryer, wherein the control panel: turns on the power of the washing machine or the dryer. -Power button to receive user input to turn on/off; a flat panel display capable of displaying one of a washing machine operation UI for operating the washing machine and a dryer operation UI for operating the dryer; and a run button that receives a user input to run or pause operation of the washing machine or dryer, wherein the power button is provided at a position spaced apart from the flat panel display in one direction, and the run button is located on the flat panel display. It may be provided at a location spaced apart from the other side.

In one embodiment, a change button is provided to receive a change command from a user so that the other is displayed while one of the washing machine control UI and the dryer control UI is displayed on the flat display, and the switch button is configured to It may be located between the power button and the flat panel display.

In one embodiment, the control panel includes a touch film located on the front of the flat display, and the switch button may be provided as a touch sensor separate from the touch film.

In one embodiment, the control panel includes a touch film located on the front of the flat display, and the power button and the execution button may be provided as touch sensors separate from the touch film.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, when a control panel capable of controlling all of the plurality of processing devices constituting the laundry treatment device is provided, the physical display space for displaying the activation status of the processing devices can be reduced. Accordingly, a simple and clear design can be provided, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced by reducing the number of light-emitting devices that display the activation state.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, in providing a user interface to a control panel capable of controlling all of the plurality of processing devices constituting the clothing processing device, a simple user interface is implemented and when placed in an installation environment, an interior effect is achieved. can be provided.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, in providing a user interface to a control panel capable of controlling all of the plurality of processing devices constituting the clothing processing device, the user visually recognizes which processing device the activated user interface relates to. As it can be used intuitively, it has high ease of use.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, in providing a user interface to a control panel that can control all of the plurality of processing devices constituting the clothing processing device, an arrangement structure that can reduce misrecognition of touch input due to moisture can be obtained. .

The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings.

Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 simply shows the interrelationship between a control panel, a washing machine, and a dryer according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 shows a UI area according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 is a flow chart of the user interface and control method of a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 4A to 4D are diagrams illustrating a user performing control according to the flow of FIG. 4 and a user interface.
Figure 5 is a flow chart of the user interface and control method of a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 5A to 5D are diagrams showing a user performing control according to the flow of FIG. 5 and a user interface.
Figure 6 is a flow chart of the user interface and control method of a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 6A to 6G are diagrams showing a user performing control according to the flow of FIG. 6 and a user interface.
Figure 7 is a flow chart of the user interface and control method of a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 7A to 7G are diagrams showing a user performing control according to the flow of FIG. 7 and a user interface.
Figure 8 is a flow chart of the user interface and control method of a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 8A to 8F are diagrams showing a user performing control according to the flow of FIG. 8 and a user interface.
Figure 9 is a flow chart of the user interface and control method of a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 9A to 9F are diagrams illustrating a user performing control according to the flow of FIG. 9 and a user interface.
Figures 10a and 10b are diagrams illustrating the user interface of a clothing treatment device and a state in which a user controls it according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 11a and 11b are diagrams illustrating the user interface of a clothing treatment device and a state in which a user controls it according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Below, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention.

However, the present invention may be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts that are not related to the description are omitted, and similar parts are given similar reference numerals throughout the specification.

In this specification, duplicate descriptions of the same components are omitted.

Also, in this specification, when a component is mentioned as being 'connected' or 'connected' to another component, it may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but may be connected to the other component in the middle. It should be understood that may exist. On the other hand, in this specification, when it is mentioned that a component is 'directly connected' or 'directly connected' to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

Additionally, the terms used in this specification are merely used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

Also, in this specification, singular expressions may include plural expressions, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

In addition, in this specification, terms such as 'include' or 'have' are only intended to designate the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and one or more It should be understood that this does not exclude in advance the presence or addition of other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

Also, in this specification, the term 'and/or' includes a combination of a plurality of listed items or any of the plurality of listed items. In this specification, ‘a or b’ may include ‘a’, ‘b’, or ‘both a and b’.

Figure 1 shows a clothing treatment device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention, the laundry treatment device 1 includes a washing machine 10, a dryer 20, and a control panel 200.

In the description of the present invention, the forward direction (+ The definitions of (Z) can all be defined in the same terms. For example, the forward and backward directions (+ It can also be defined similarly.

The washing machine 10 and dryer 20 may be provided with various types of clothes for processing clothes, such as a washing machine for washing clothes and/or a dryer for drying clothes. The washing machine 10 may be a washing machine and the dryer 20 may be a dryer. The washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 may both be washing machines or dryers, the washing machine 10 may be a dryer and the dryer 20 may be a washing machine, or they may be various other devices for processing clothes.

In an embodiment, the washing machine 10 located on the lower side may correspond to a washing machine for washing clothes. The washing machine 10 may be provided with a first drum 12 and a tub 14 in which clothes are stored. The first drum 12 inside the washing machine 10 may be rotatably provided inside the tub 14. The dryer 20 is located above the washing machine 10. The washing machine 10 supports the dryer 20. The dryer 20 may correspond to a dryer for drying clothes. The dryer 20 may be provided with a first drum 12 and a tub 14 in which clothes are stored.

The washing machine 10 may include a first cabinet 110 that forms an exterior. The first cabinet 110 may be provided with a washing machine front panel 112 on the front side. A clothing opening communicating with the first drum 12 may be formed in the washing machine front panel 112. The clothing opening can be opened and closed by the first cabinet door (17). The first drum 12 of the washing machine 10 according to one embodiment has a rotation axis parallel to the forward and backward directions (+X, -Y).

The washing machine 10 may be provided with first side panels 115 on both sides in the lateral direction (Y), a first rear panel (not shown) may be provided on the rear side, and a first top panel (not shown) on the upper side. (not shown) may be provided, and a first lower panel (not shown) may be provided on the lower side.

The washing machine front panel 112, first side panel 115, first rear panel (not shown), first top panel 119, and first bottom panel (not shown) are combined with each other to form a first cabinet 110. and can have a bonding relationship with each other. The first cabinet 110 may form a space inside which internal components constituting the washing machine 10, such as the first drum 12, are provided.

In the washing machine 10, clothes requiring processing are introduced into the first cabinet 110 through the clothes opening, so that they can be accommodated inside the first drum 12, and the processing process by the washing machine 10 is performed. It can be.

A detergent opening is formed in the washing machine front panel 112, and a detergent storage unit 30 is inserted into the detergent opening. In the laundry treatment device 1 according to one embodiment, the washing machine 10 is placed on the ground, and the detergent storage unit 30 is placed on the clothes of the washing machine 10 to facilitate insertion and withdrawal of the detergent storage unit 30. It may be located above the opening. The detergent storage unit 30 may be located between the clothes opening of the washing machine 10 and the control panel 200. That is, the detergent storage unit 30 may be located above the clothes opening of the washing machine 10 and below the control panel 200. The detergent storage unit 30 may be inserted into or withdrawn from the first cabinet 110 by the user. For example, the user separates the detergent storage unit 30 from the first cabinet 110, stores detergent in the detergent storage unit 30, and then inserts the detergent storage unit 30 into the first cabinet 110. You can do it.

In one embodiment, the washing machine front panel 112 is provided with a filter opening into which a filter unit 40 that collects foreign substances from washing water is inserted, and the filter unit 40 is inserted into the filter opening. The filter unit 40 may be provided on one lower side of the washing machine front panel 112. The filter unit 40 may be introduced into the interior of the first cabinet 110 through the filter opening, and may be connected to the wash water flow path discharged from the tub 14. The filter unit 40 can filter out foreign substances from the washing water discharged from the tub 14 after the washing process is performed. The role of the filter unit 40 is not necessarily limited to this, and may be provided to filter foreign substances from various objects as needed. For example, the filter unit 40 may be provided to filter out foreign substances from the washing water used to perform the washing process before the washing process is performed.

The user can insert or withdraw the filter unit 40 into the first cabinet 110 through the filter opening. The drawn out filter unit 40 can be reused or replaced after washing. The filter unit 40 may have a relatively longer input and output cycle in relation to the detergent storage unit 30. Accordingly, one embodiment of the present invention has a detergent storage unit 30 with a relatively short input and output cycle. The detergent inlet opening can be placed on the upper side of the washing machine front panel 112. In addition, the filter opening through which the filter unit 40, which has a relatively long input and output cycle, is inserted is located on the lower side of the washing machine front panel 112, improving convenience of use and creating a structure of the washing machine front panel 112 with excellent space utilization. It can be implemented.

Furthermore, the washing water discharge passage connected to the tub 14 inside the first cabinet 110 may be located at the lower side within the first cabinet 110 to facilitate discharge of washing water, an embodiment of the present invention. In the example, the filter unit 40 is provided on the lower side of the first cabinet 110 and can be efficiently connected to the wash water discharge passage.

The washing machine 10 may be provided with a washing machine control unit 19. The washing machine control unit 19 is a component that controls various devices constituting the washing machine 10. The washing machine control unit 19 is disposed inside the first cabinet 110. The washing machine control unit 19 may include a circuit board and electrical components mounted on the circuit board. In an embodiment, the washing machine control unit 19 may check information corresponding to the operation signal received from the control panel 200 in memory and control the device corresponding to the operation signal. The washing machine control unit 19 can transmit the status of the washing machine 10 to the control panel 200.

The dryer 20 may include a second cabinet 120 that forms an exterior. The second cabinet 120 may include a dryer front panel 122 provided on the front side. A clothing opening communicating with the second drum 22 may be formed in the dryer front panel 122. The clothing opening can be opened and closed by the second cabinet door (27).

The dryer 20 may be provided with second side panels 125 on both sides in the lateral direction (+Y, -Y). The dryer 20 may be provided with a second rear panel (not shown) on the rear side, a second top panel 127 on the upper side, and a second bottom panel (not shown) on the lower side. You can.

The dryer front panel 122, the second side panel 125, the second rear panel (not shown), the second top panel 127, and the second bottom panel (not shown) are combined with each other to form a second cabinet 120. and can have a bonding relationship with each other. The second cabinet 120 may form a space inside which internal components constituting the dryer 20, such as the second drum 22, are provided.

Clothes requiring processing can be put into the second cabinet 120 through the clothes opening of the dryer 20 and accommodated inside the second drum 22. Clothes stored in the second drum 22 may be washed and dried using the dryer 20.

In the dryer 20 according to one embodiment, the clothes opening is provided on the dryer front panel 122 together with the second cabinet door 27. The second drum 22 accommodated in the dryer 20 has a rotation axis parallel to the front-back direction (X).

The dryer 20 is disposed above the washing machine 10. In one embodiment, the lower part of the washing machine 10 may be coupled to the upper part of the dryer 20. The upper portion of the washing machine 10 may have a structure that supports the dryer 20. For example, the first top panel (not shown) of the washing machine 10 may have a structure that directly or indirectly supports the second bottom panel (not shown) of the dryer 20.

The dryer 20 may be provided with a dryer control unit 29. The dryer control unit 29 controls various devices constituting the dryer 2. The dryer control unit 29 is disposed inside the second cabinet 120. The dryer control unit 29 may include a circuit board and electrical components mounted on the circuit board. In an embodiment, the dryer control unit 29 may check information corresponding to the operation signal received from the control panel 200 in memory and control the device corresponding to the operation signal. The dryer control unit 29 can transmit the status of the dryer 20 to the control panel 200.

The control panel 200 is disposed between the washing machine front panel 112 and the dryer front panel 122. The control panel 200 is provided between the washing machine front panel 112 and the dryer front panel 122, which is approximately at a height corresponding to the user's waist, and thus can secure a height that is convenient for the user to operate. The control panel 200 may be signally connected to at least one of the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20. In an embodiment, the control panel 200 is signally connected to the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20. In an embodiment, the control panel 200 is signally connected to the washing machine control unit 19 and/or the dryer 20.

The front part 210 of the control panel 200 is provided with a UI area 220 where a user interface (UI) is displayed.

Figure 2 simply shows the interrelationship between the control panel 200, the washing machine 10, and the dryer 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the control panel 200 may include a display unit 201, an input unit 202, and a control unit 203.

The display unit 201 is configured to indicate the status of the washing machine 10 and/or dryer 20. The display unit 201 is provided in the UI area 220 of the control panel 200. The display unit 201 displays operation information and a user interface (UI) for one or more of the washing machine and dryer.

The input unit 202 is a component that receives an operation command from the user to control the washing machine 10 and/or the dryer 20. The input unit 202 is provided in the control panel 200. The input unit 202 may be provided as a touch screen. The input unit 202 may be provided as a touch sensor. The input unit 202 may be provided as a physical button.

The control unit 203 may be provided inside the control panel 200, that is, on the rear side of the front part 210. More than one control unit 203 may be provided. The control unit 203 is electrically connected to the washing machine 10 and/or dryer 20 and can exchange signals. The control unit 203 is connected to the display unit 201 and/or the input unit 202 and can send and receive signals. The above-described signals may be control commands, user input, device status information, etc. The control unit 203 can detect a manipulation signal from the input unit 202. The control unit 203 can check information corresponding to the input manipulation signal in the memory. The control unit 203 can transmit display data to the display unit 201. The display unit 201 may display the operating status of the washing machine 10, the operating status of the dryer 20, and/or the contents of a command input from the user in response to the display data transmitted from the control unit 203. The control unit 203 can switch the components forming the input unit 202 into an activated or deactivated state. The control unit 203 can switch the components forming the display unit 201 into an activated or deactivated state. The control unit 203 may include a circuit board and electrical components mounted on the circuit board.

Although the relationship in which the control unit 203 is included in the control panel 200 has been described in the embodiment, the control unit 203 may not be classified in the control panel 200. Additionally, the control unit 203 may be provided in a location other than the control panel 200. The control unit 203 may be provided in the washing machine 10 and/or dryer 20. Additionally, the control unit 203 may be provided in the control panel 200, the washing machine 10, and the dryer 20, respectively. The control unit 203 may be provided integrated with the washing machine control unit 19 and/or the dryer control unit 29. Alternatively, the control unit 203 may be understood as an integrated concept with the washing machine control unit 19 and/or the dryer control unit 29.

Figure 3 shows the UI area 220 according to an embodiment of the present invention. A user interface (UI) is provided in the UI area 220.

The user interface displayed in the UI area 220 includes the first power button 221, the second power button 222, the touch display 223, the conversion button 224, the additional function button 225, and the first execution button. (226), and may include a second execution button (227).

The first power button 221, the second power button 222, the conversion button 224, the additional function button 225, the first execution button 226, and the second execution button 227 are touch sensors or physical buttons. can be provided. The touch display 223 may be composed of a combination of a flat panel display and a touch screen. In embodiments, a flat panel display refers to a thin display and can be provided in various forms such as LCD, PDP, AMLCD, PMLCD, OLED, and LED.

The first power button 221 is displayed as a power icon for the washing machine 10. The first power button 221 receives user input for turning the washing machine 10 on and off. In an embodiment, when the user touches the first power button 221, the control unit 203 may receive a turn-on or turn-off command for the washing machine 10. .

The second power button 222 is displayed as a power icon for the dryer 20. The second power button 222 is arranged to occupy a different area from the first power button 221. In the embodiment, the first power button 221 and the second power button 222 are arranged in up and down positions. The second power button 222 receives a user input for turning the dryer 20 on and off. In an embodiment, when the user touches the second power button 222, the control unit 203 may receive a turn-on or turn-off command for the dryer 20. .

The first power button 221 and the second power button 222 may be provided as separate touch sensors separate from the touch film provided on the touch display 223. When the first power button 221 and the second power button 222 are provided in an area separated from the touch display 223, malfunction of the device can be reduced. The clothing treatment device 1 is placed in a humid environment. By varying the areas of the touch film forming the touch display 223 and the first power button 221 and the second power button 222, touch malfunction due to moisture can be minimized. For example, while the washing machine is in operation, you turn on the dryer and try to access the dryer operation UI, but problems such as changing the washing machine's options due to touch malfunction due to moisture can be prevented.

The touch display 223 is arranged to occupy a different area from the first power button 221 and the second power button 222. The touch display 223 includes a touch film forming one of the input units 202 and a flat panel display forming one of the display units 201. The touch display 223 displays the washing machine operation UI for controlling the washing machine 10, the dryer operation UI for controlling the dryer 20, and the operation information of the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 on one screen. Any one of the composite UIs can be displayed. The washing machine operation UI, dryer operation UI, and complex UI are described in detail below.

The switch button 224 is arranged to occupy a different area from the first power button 221, the second power button 222, and the touch display 223. The switch button 224 may be provided as a separate touch sensor separate from the touch film provided on the touch display 223. If the switch button 224 is provided in an area separate from the touch display 223, malfunction of the device can be reduced. The clothing treatment device 1 is placed in a humid environment. By varying the areas of the touch film forming the touch display 223 and the switch button 224, touch malfunction due to moisture can be minimized. For example, while the washing machine is in operation, you turn on the dryer and try to access the dryer operation UI, but problems such as changing the washing machine's options due to touch malfunction due to moisture can be prevented.

The conversion button 224 may be displayed as a conversion icon. The switch button 224 receives user input for switching the control object. It is activated when both the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 are in the On state. When the switch button 224 is input while the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the touch display 223, the control target is switched to the dryer 20, and the dryer operation UI is displayed on the touch display 223. When the switch button 224 is input while the dryer operation UI is displayed on the touch display 223, the control target is switched to the washing machine 10 and the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the touch display 223. The switch button 224 is deactivated when the power of at least one of the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 is turned off.

The additional function button 225 may be displayed in the form of a text icon. The additional function button 225 is arranged to occupy a different area from the first power button 221, the second power button 222, the touch display 223, and the switch button 224. The additional function button 225 receives user input for setting additional functions of the washing machine 10 and/or dryer 20. In an embodiment, when the user touches the additional function button 225, an item that can set additional settings (e.g., reservation, notification sound volume, etc.) for the washing machine 10 and/or dryer 20 is touched. It may be displayed on the display 223.

The first execution button 226 is displayed as a play/pause icon. The first execution button 226 is arranged to occupy a different area from the first power button 221, the second power button 222, the touch display 223, the conversion button 224, and the additional function button 225. . The first power button 221 receives user input to start or pause the operation of the washing machine 10.

The second execution button 227 is displayed as a play/pause icon. The second execution button 227 includes the first power button 221, the second power button 222, the touch display 223, the conversion button 224, the additional function button 225, and the first execution button 226. It is arranged to occupy a different area from the other area. The first execution button 226 and the second execution button 227 are arranged at upper and lower positions. The second power button 222 receives user input to run or pause the operation of the dryer 20.

Figure 3a is a schematic cross-sectional view of the portion where the switch button 224 is located according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a cross-section taken along line II' of Figure 3.

Referring to FIG. 3, the switch button 224 has a switch icon shape 224b in a set area of the film 224a that blocks light transmission provided at the rear of the front part 210 of the control panel 200. It is formed and displayed as possible. A touch sensor 224c may be provided on the surface where the transition icon shape 224b is provided. The touch sensor 224c may be provided in various forms such as capacitive type, pressure sensitive type, and infrared type. A light emitting element 230 is disposed behind the transition icon shape 224b. The light emission of the light emitting device 230 can be controlled on/off. The light emitting element 230 displays the activation state of the switch button 224. In an embodiment, the light emitting device 230 emits light when the switch button 224 is activated. In the deactivated state of the switch button 224, the light emitting device 230 turns off light emission. In an embodiment, one light emitting element 230 is disposed behind the switch button 224.

In the description of the present invention, the switching button 224 is described as an example, but the first power button 221, the second power button 222, the additional function button 225, the first execution button 226, 2The execution button 227 is also configured in the same or similar form and can display the button's activation state through a light emitting device.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 4 to 11B, the user interface and control method of the laundry treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the drawings for this description, bold or bold expressions indicate an activated state, and light or thin expressions indicate a deactivated state. In an activated state, an input command may be received from the button, and in a deactivated state, an input command may not be received from the button.

Figure 4 is a flow chart of the user interface and control method of a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 4A to 4D are diagrams illustrating a user performing control according to the flow of FIG. 4 and a user interface.

This will be explained with reference to FIG. 4 . The operating steps for operating the washing machine 10 will be described. When a touch input is made to the first power button 221 by the user (see FIG. 4A), the power of the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state (S111). When the power of the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223, as shown in FIG. 4B (S112). Additionally, when the power of the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the first execution button 226 is activated (S113), as shown in FIG. 4B.

The washing machine operation UI 310 is a user interface that enables control of the washing machine 10. The washing machine operation UI 310 includes a first screen. The first screen displays the course name (311), course description (312), processing options (313), and indicators (315). The course name 311 indicates the name of a preset processing course of the washing machine 10. Additionally, the selected course name 311 is displayed in the course name 311. In an embodiment, the washing machine 10 is a washing machine, and the displayed course name may be a 'standard wash' course.

The course description 312 displays a description of the processing course corresponding to the displayed course name 311. In an embodiment, the course name 311 may be 'Standard Laundry' and the course description 312 may be displayed as 'Clean General Clothes.' The course description 312 is placed below the course name 311 and may be displayed in a smaller font than the course name 311.

Processing options 313 displays detailed options for the processing course. In an embodiment, the set number of rinses, dehydration intensity, water temperature, etc. may be displayed.

The indicator 315 may indicate the current operation target among the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20. In an embodiment, the indicator 315 may be provided in the form of an icon. In another embodiment, the indicator 315 may be provided as text.

The indicator 315 may be displayed in the upper area of one side of the washing machine operation UI 310. In an embodiment, indicator 315 is displayed in a first configuration. The first form is two squares stacked up and down, and the square below may be colored. The first form may be a form colored with a first color. The indicator 315 provides intuitive visual information to the user about the processing device currently being operated. In an embodiment, the indicator 315 is displayed on the washing machine operation UI 310 so that the user can visually recognize that the currently displayed UI is the washing machine operation UI 310 and the control target is the washing machine 10. Let it happen.

The clothing processing device 1 receives a processing course and/or processing option for the washing machine 10 from the user through the washing machine operation UI 310 (S120). Once the settings for the processing course and processing options of the washing machine 10 are completed, the user can command the washing machine 10 to be operated by touching the first execution button 226, as shown in FIG. 4C (S130). . When the control unit 203 receives a user input from the first execution button 226, it can transmit a signal to the washing machine 10 to operate the washing machine 10 according to the set processing course and processing options. In an embodiment, the control unit 203 transmits a signal to the washing machine control unit 19 of the washing machine 10, and the washing machine control unit 19 may transmit operation commands to each element constituting the washing machine 10. As a result, upon receiving the input of the first execution button 226 from the user, the washing machine 10 executes the operation to process the clothes using the set processing course and processing options (S140).

When the washing machine 10 is operated, a second screen is displayed on the washing machine operation UI 310 (see FIG. 4d). Processing information 317 and a time bar 317a may be displayed on the second screen. An indicator 315 may be further displayed on the second screen. Processing information 317 includes course name, remaining processing time, processing options, etc. The time bar 317a displays processing time. The time bar 317a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 317a displays the elapse of processing time using the filling length inside the bar shape. The time bar 317a increases the amount of filling inside the bar shape as processing time elapses. The fill color of the time bar 317a may be the first color.

Figure 5 is a flow chart of the user interface and control method of a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 5A to 5D are diagrams showing a user performing control according to the flow of FIG. 5 and a user interface.

This will be explained with reference to FIG. 5 . The operating steps for operating the dryer 20 will be described. When a touch input is made to the second power button 222 by the user (see FIG. 5A), the power of the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state (S211). When the power of the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, as shown in FIG. 5B, the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S212). Additionally, when the power of the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the second execution button 227 is activated (S213), as shown in FIG. 5B.

The dryer operation UI 320 is a user interface that enables control of the dryer 20. The dryer operation UI 320 includes a first screen. The first screen displays the course name (321), course description (322), processing options (323), and indicators (325). The course name 321 indicates the name of a preset processing course of the dryer 20. Additionally, the course name 321 displays the selected course name 321. In an embodiment, the dryer 20 is a dryer, and the displayed course name may be a 'standard drying' course.

The course description 322 displays a description of the processing course corresponding to the displayed course name 321. In an embodiment, the course name 321 may be 'standard drying', and the course description 322 may be displayed as 'soften general clothing.' The course description 322 is placed below the course name 321 and may be displayed in a smaller font than the course name 321.

Processing options 323 displays detailed options for the processing course. In an embodiment, the set drying degree, drying time, ON/OFF of the wrinkle prevention function, etc. may be displayed.

The indicator 325 may be displayed in the upper area of one side of the dryer operation UI 320. Indicator 325 is displayed in the second form. The second form is distinct from the first form described above. The second form is two squares stacked top and bottom, and the upper square may be colored. The second form may be a form colored with a second color. The secondary chromosome is a color that is distinct from the above-mentioned secondary chromosome. The indicator 325 provides intuitive visual information to the user about the processing device currently being operated. In an embodiment, an indicator 325 is displayed on the dryer operation UI 320 so that the user can visually recognize that the currently displayed UI is the dryer operation UI 320 and the control target is the dryer 20. Let it happen.

The clothing processing device 1 receives a processing course and/or processing option for the dryer 20 from the user through the dryer operation UI 320 (S220). Once the settings for the processing course and processing options of the dryer 20 are completed, the user can command the dryer 20 to operate by touching the second execution button 227, as shown in FIG. 5C (S230). . When the control unit 203 receives a user input from the second execution button 227, it can transmit a signal to the dryer 20 to operate the dryer 20 according to the set processing course and processing options. In an embodiment, the control unit 203 may transmit a signal to the dryer control unit 29 of the dryer 20, and the dryer control unit 29 may transmit operation commands to each element constituting the dryer 20. As a result, upon receiving the input of the second execution button 227 from the user, the dryer 20 executes the operation to process the clothes using the set processing course and processing options (S240).

When the dryer 20 is operated, a second screen is displayed on the dryer operation UI 320 (see FIG. 5D). Processing information 327 and a time bar 327a may be displayed on the second screen. An indicator 325 may be further displayed on the second screen. Processing information 327 includes course name, remaining processing time, processing options, etc. The time bar 327a displays processing time. The time bar 327a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 327a displays the elapse of processing time using the filling length inside the bar shape. The time bar 327a increases the amount of filling inside the bar shape as processing time elapses. The fill color of the time bar 327a may be a second color.

Figure 6 is a flow chart of the user interface and control method of a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 6A to 6G are diagrams showing a user performing control according to the flow of FIG. 6 and a user interface.

This will be explained with reference to FIG. 6. The operating steps for operating the dryer 20 will be described. In an embodiment, the power of the washing machine 10 is maintained in the ON state. Here, the power ON state means a waiting state to receive a processing command or an operating state. In an embodiment, as referenced through FIG. 6A , the power of the washing machine 10 may be maintained on by receiving an input signal from the user touching the first power button 221.

When the power of the washing machine 10 is ON, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223, as shown in FIG. 6B, and the first execution button 226 is provided in an activated state (S310). .

The user turns on the power of the dryer 20 while the power of the washing machine 10 is turned on (S321). The power of the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state when the user touches the second power button 222 (see FIG. 6C).

When the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the switch button 224 is activated as shown in FIG. 6D (S322). When the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223, as shown in FIG. 6D (S323). When the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the second execution button 227 is activated as shown in FIG. 6D (S324).

The clothing processing device 1 receives a processing course and/or processing option for the dryer 20 from the user through the dryer operation UI 320 (S330). Once the settings for the processing course and processing options of the dryer 20 are completed, the user can command the dryer 20 to operate by touching the second execution button 227, as shown in FIG. 6E (S340). . When the control unit 203 receives a user input from the second execution button 227, it can transmit a signal to the dryer 20 to operate the dryer 20 according to the set processing course and processing options. In an embodiment, the control unit 203 may transmit a signal to the dryer control unit 29 of the dryer 20, and the dryer control unit 29 may transmit an operation command to each element constituting the dryer 20. As a result, upon receiving the input of the second execution button 227 from the user, the dryer 20 executes the operation to process the clothes using the set processing course and processing options (S350).

In an embodiment, the laundry treatment device 1 determines whether the washing machine 10 is operating (S360). If the washing machine 10 is not in operation (No), the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S371). And, the switch button 224 remains activated (S372). Specifically, the second screen of the dryer operation UI 320 may be displayed on the touch display 223 (see FIG. 6f). Processing information 327 and a time bar 327a may be displayed on the second screen. An indicator 325 may be further displayed on the second screen. Processing information 327 includes course name, remaining processing time, processing options, etc. The time bar 327a displays processing time. The time bar 327a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 327a displays the elapse of processing time using the filling length inside the bar shape. The time bar 327a increases the amount of filling inside the bar shape as processing time elapses. The fill color of the time bar 327a may be a second color.

If the washing machine 10 is in operation (Yes), as shown in FIG. 6g, the complex UI 330 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S381). The dryer operation UI 320 may be displayed for a set time before the complex UI 330 is displayed (not shown in the flow chart). Additionally, the switch button 224 is deactivated (S382). The complex UI 330 displays the operation information of the washing machine 10 and the operation information of the dryer 20 on one screen. The complex UI 330 is displayed when both the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 are in operation. The complex UI 330 is provided with a first area 331 and a second area 332. In the first area 331, operation information of the washing machine 10 is displayed. In the second area 332, operation information of the dryer 20 is displayed. The first area 331 and the second area 332 are displayed on one screen. The first area 331 occupies the upper area of the complex UI 330, and the second area 332 occupies the lower area of the complex UI 330.

Processing information and a time bar 331a may be displayed in the first area 331. Processing information includes remaining processing time. The time bar 331a displays processing time. The time bar 331a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 331a displays the elapse of processing time using the filling length inside the bar shape. The time bar 331a increases the amount of filling inside the bar shape as processing time elapses. The fill color of the time bar 331a may be the first color. The first area 331 can receive a user touch input. When a user touch input to the first area 331 is received, the touch display 223 is controlled to display the washing machine operation UI 310.

Processing information and a time bar 332a may be displayed in the second area 332. Processing information includes remaining processing time. The time bar 332a displays processing time. The time bar 332a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 332a displays the elapse of processing time using the filling length inside the bar shape. The time bar 332a increases the amount of filling inside the bar shape as processing time elapses. The fill color of the time bar 332a may be a second color. The second area 332 can receive a user touch input. When a user touch input to the second area 332 is received, the touch display 223 is controlled to display the dryer operation UI 320.

Figure 7 is a flow chart of the user interface and control method of a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 7A to 7G are diagrams showing a user performing control according to the flow of FIG. 7 and a user interface.

This will be explained with reference to FIG. 7 . The operating steps for operating the washing machine 10 will be described. In an embodiment, the power of the dryer 20 is maintained in the ON state. Here, the power ON state means a waiting state for receiving a processing command or an operating state. In an embodiment, as referenced through FIG. 7A, an input signal from the user touching the second power button 222 may be received, and the power of the dryer 20 may be maintained on.

When the power of the dryer 20 is ON, the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223, as shown in FIG. 7b, and the second execution button 227 is provided in an activated state (S410). .

The user turns on the power of the washing machine 10 while the dryer 20 is turned on (S421). The power of the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state when the user touches the first power button 221 (see Figure 7c).

When the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the switch button 224 is activated as shown in FIG. 7D (S722). When the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223, as shown in FIG. 7D (S423). When the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the first execution button 226 is activated as shown in FIG. 7D (S424).

The clothing processing device 1 receives a processing course and/or processing option for the washing machine 10 from the user through the washing machine operation UI 310 (S430). Once the settings for the processing course and processing options of the washing machine 10 are completed, the user can command the washing machine 10 to be operated by touching the first execution button 226, as shown in FIG. 7E (S440). . When the control unit 203 receives a user input from the first execution button 226, it can transmit a signal to the washing machine 10 to operate the washing machine 10 according to the set processing course and processing options. In an embodiment, the control unit 203 transmits a signal to the washing machine control unit 19 of the washing machine 10, and the washing machine control unit 19 may transmit operation commands to each element constituting the washing machine 10. As a result, upon receiving the input of the first execution button 226 from the user, the washing machine 10 executes the operation to process the clothes using the set processing course and processing options (S450).

In an embodiment, the laundry treatment device 1 determines whether the dryer 20 is operating (S460). If the dryer 20 is not in operation (No), the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S471). And, the switch button 224 remains activated (S472). Specifically, the second screen of the washing machine operation UI 310 may be displayed on the touch display 223 (see FIG. 7f). Processing information 317 and a time bar 317a may be displayed on the second screen. An indicator 315 may be further displayed on the second screen. Processing information 317 includes course name, remaining processing time, processing options, etc. The time bar 317a displays processing time. The time bar 317a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 317a displays the elapse of processing time using the filling length inside the bar shape. The time bar 317a increases the amount of filling inside the bar shape as processing time elapses. The fill color of the time bar 317a may be the first color.

If the dryer 20 is in operation (Yes), as shown in FIG. 7g, the complex UI 330 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S481). The washing machine operation UI 310 may be displayed for a set time before the complex UI 330 is displayed (not shown in the flow chart). Additionally, the switch button 224 is deactivated (S482). The complex UI 330 displays the operation information of the washing machine 10 and the operation information of the dryer 20 on one screen. The complex UI 330 is displayed when both the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 are in operation. The complex UI 330 is provided with a first area 331 and a second area 332. In the first area 331, operation information of the washing machine 10 is displayed. In the second area 332, operation information of the dryer 20 is displayed. The first area 331 and the second area 332 are displayed on one screen. The first area 331 occupies the upper area of the complex UI 330, and the second area 332 occupies the lower area of the complex UI 330.

Processing information and a time bar 331a may be displayed in the first area 331. Processing information includes remaining processing time. The time bar 331a displays processing time. The time bar 331a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 331a displays the elapse of processing time using the filling length inside the bar shape. The time bar 331a increases the amount of filling inside the bar shape as processing time elapses. The fill color of the time bar 331a may be the first color. The first area 331 can receive a user touch input. When a user touch input to the first area 331 is received, the touch display 223 is controlled to display the washing machine operation UI 310.

Processing information and a time bar 332a may be displayed in the second area 332. Processing information includes remaining processing time. The time bar 332a displays processing time. The time bar 332a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 332a displays the elapse of processing time using the filling length inside the bar shape. The time bar 332a increases the amount of filling inside the bar shape as processing time elapses. The fill color of the time bar 332a may be a second color. The second area 332 can receive a user touch input. When a user touch input to the second area 332 is received, the touch display 223 is controlled to display the dryer operation UI 320.

Figure 8 is a flow chart of the user interface and control method of a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 8A to 8F are diagrams showing a user performing control according to the flow of FIG. 8 and a user interface.

This will be explained with reference to FIG. 8 . In an embodiment, the power of the washing machine 10 is maintained in the ON state. Here, the power ON state means a waiting state for receiving a processing command or an operating state. As referenced through FIG. 8A , this may be a state in which the power of the washing machine 10 is maintained ON by receiving an input signal from the user touching the first power button 221.

When the power of the washing machine 10 is ON, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223, as shown in FIG. 8b, and the first execution button 226 is provided in an activated state (S510). .

The user turns on the power of the dryer 20 while the power of the washing machine 10 is turned on (S521). The power of the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state when the user touches the second power button 222 (see FIG. 8C).

When the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the switch button 224 is activated as shown in FIG. 8D (S522). When the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the second execution button 227 is activated as shown in FIG. 8D. When the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223, as shown in FIG. 8D (S523).

As shown in FIG. 8E, the power of the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 is turned on, and the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223, and an input of the switch button 224 is received. As shown in FIG. 8F on the lower surface (S531), the screen is switched on the touch display 223 and the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed (S540).

If the power of the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 is ON (S532) and the washing machine 10 is operating, if the user's operation command is not input for more than a set time (e.g., 5 seconds) ( S533), the screen is switched on the touch display 223 and the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed (S540). Here, the user's operation command is an input made to the dryer operation UI 320, such as selecting a processing course and/or processing option using the dryer operation UI 320. The user's operation command may further include the concept of inputting a driving command by touching the second execution button 227.

Figure 9 is a flow chart of the user interface and control method of a clothing treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 9A to 9F are diagrams illustrating a user performing control according to the flow of FIG. 9 and a user interface.

This will be explained with reference to FIG. 9 . In an embodiment, the power of the dryer 20 is maintained in the ON state. Here, the power ON state means a waiting state for receiving a processing command or an operating state. As referenced through FIG. 9A , this may be a state in which the power of the dryer 20 is maintained ON by receiving an input signal from the user touching the second power button 222.

When the power of the dryer 20 is ON, the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223, as shown in FIG. 9B, and the second execution button 227 is provided in an activated state (S610). .

The user turns on the power of the washing machine 10 while the dryer 20 is turned on (S621). The power of the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state when the user touches the first power button 221 (see FIG. 9C).

When the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the switch button 224 is activated as shown in FIG. 9D (S622). When the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the first execution button 226 is activated as shown in FIG. 9D. When the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223, as shown in FIG. 9D (S623).

As referenced in FIG. 9e, the power of the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 is turned on, and the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223, and an input of the switching button 224 is received. As shown in FIG. 9F on the lower surface (S631), the screen is switched on the touch display 223 and the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed (S640).

If the power of the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 is ON (S632) and the dryer 20 is operating, if the user's operation command is not input for more than a set time (e.g., 5 seconds) ( S633), the screen is switched on the touch display 223 and the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed (S640). Here, the user's operation command refers to input to the washing machine operation UI 310, such as selecting a processing course and/or processing option, using the washing machine operation UI 310. The user's operation command may further include the concept of inputting a driving command by touching the first execution button 226.

Figures 10a and 10b are diagrams illustrating the user interface of a clothing treatment device and a state in which a user controls it according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The washing machine operation UI 310 may display one or more characters in a first character color 319a that is distinct from the basic character color. In the embodiment referring to FIG. 10A , the clothing processing device 1 may receive a touch input from the user on the view all button 311a located to the right of the course name 311. See further Figure 10b. When the view all button 311a is touched, a list of courses that can be set may be displayed on the washing machine operation UI 310. Among the courses that can be set, the currently selected course (in the example, 'standard wash') may be displayed in a first text color 319a that is different from the basic text color indicating the unselected course. From this, the user can visually recognize which course he or she has selected.

Figures 11a and 11b are diagrams illustrating the user interface of a clothing treatment device and a state in which a user controls it according to an embodiment of the present invention.

This will be explained with reference to FIG. 11. The dryer operation UI 320 may display one or more characters in a basic character color and a second character color 329a that is distinct from the first character color. In the embodiment referring to FIG. 11A, the clothing processing device 1 may receive a touch input from the user on the view all button 321a located to the right of the course name 321. See further Figure 11b. When the view all button 321a is touched, the dryer operation UI 320 may display a list of courses that can be set. Among the courses that can be set, the currently selected course (in the example, 'standard drying') will be displayed in a second text color (329a) that is distinct from the basic text color indicating the unselected course and the first text color (319a). You can. From this, the user can visually recognize which course he or she has selected. In addition, the washing machine operation UI 310 is expressed in a first font color, and the dryer operation UI 320 is expressed in a second font color, so that the user can visually and intuitively recognize the device currently being operated.

In an embodiment, the control flow of the laundry treatment device 1 may be implemented by any one of the control unit 203, the washing machine control unit 19, and the dryer control unit 29. In an embodiment, the control flow of the clothing processing device 1 may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing instructions executable by a computer. Instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may create program modules to perform operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

Although the present invention has been shown and described in relation to specific embodiments, it is known in the art that the present invention can be modified and changed in various ways without departing from the technical spirit of the invention as provided by the following claims. This will be self-evident to those with ordinary knowledge.

Claims (35)

A washing machine provided with a front panel on the front side and a first drum containing clothes therein;
a dryer disposed above the washing machine, provided with a dryer front panel on the front side, and provided with a second drum for storing clothes therein; and
A control panel is provided between the washing machine front panel and the dryer front panel and includes a user interface (UI) for at least one of the washing machine and the dryer,
The control panel is:
a flat panel display capable of displaying one of a washing machine operation UI for operating the washing machine and a dryer operation UI for operating the dryer; and
Contains a toggle button,
When the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the flat display and an input of the switch button is received, the flat display displays the dryer operation UI,
A clothing treatment device wherein when an input of the switch button is received while the dryer operation UI is displayed on the flat display, the flat display displays the washing machine operation UI. According to paragraph 1,
The switching button is activated when both the washing machine and the dryer are turned on. According to paragraph 2,
The clothes handling device wherein the switch button is deactivated when the power of at least one of the washing machine and the dryer is turned off. According to paragraph 1,
The switching button is activated when one of the washing machine and the dryer is in operation and the other is turned on. A washing machine provided with a front panel on the front side and a first drum containing clothes therein;
a dryer disposed above the washing machine, provided with a dryer front panel on the front side, and provided with a second drum for storing clothes therein; and
A control panel is provided between the washing machine front panel and the dryer front panel and includes a user interface (UI) for at least one of the washing machine and the dryer,
The control panel is:
a flat panel display capable of displaying one of a washing machine operation UI for operating the washing machine and a dryer operation UI for operating the dryer; and
A laundry treatment device including a switch button that is activated when both the washing machine and the dryer are turned on. According to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The control panel is:
A clothing processing device including a touch film located in front of the flat display. According to clause 6,
The flat display constitutes one of the display units of the user interface (UI),
The touch film is a clothing processing device that constitutes one of the input units of the user interface (UI). According to clause 6,
A clothing processing device wherein the switch button is arranged to occupy a different area from the touch film. According to clause 6,
A clothing processing device in which the switch button is provided as a touch sensor separate from the touch film. According to clause 6,
The control panel is,
A power button that receives a user input for turning on or off the power of the washing machine or dryer; and
Includes an execution button that receives user input to execute or pause operation of the washing machine or dryer,
A clothing processing device in which the power button and the execution button are provided as touch sensors separate from the touch film. According to any one of claims 1 to 5,
A clothing treatment device further comprising a light emitting element disposed behind the switch button to display an activation state of the switch button. According to clause 11,
A clothing treatment device in which the light emitting element emits light when the switch button is activated. According to clause 11,
A clothing treatment device in which the light emitting element turns off light emission when the switch button is in a deactivated state. According to paragraph 1,
When the other of the washing machine operation UI and the dryer operation UI is displayed on the flat panel display by inputting the switch button, if no input is received from the user for more than a preset time, the flat display displays the washing machine operation UI and the dryer operation UI. A clothing processing device that displays any one of the dryer operation UI again. According to clause 14,
A clothing processing device in which the switch button is deactivated if no user input is received for more than a preset time while the switch button is activated. According to paragraph 1,
In the flat display,
A laundry treatment device that outputs an indicator indicating a current operation target among the washing machine and the dryer. According to clause 16,
The indicator is displayed in a first form in the washing machine operation UI, and is displayed in a second form that is distinct from the first form in the dryer operation UI. According to paragraph 1,
The washing machine operation UI displays one or more letters in a first letter color that is distinct from the basic letter color,
The dryer operation UI is a clothing processing device that displays one or more characters in a second character color that is distinct from the basic character color and the first character color. According to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The flat display,
A clothing processing device that can further display a complex UI in which operation information of the washing machine and operation information of the dryer are displayed on a single screen. According to clause 19,
The complex UI is a clothing treatment device that is displayed when both the washing machine and the dryer are in operation. According to clause 19,
A clothing processing device in which the switch button is deactivated while the complex UI is displayed. According to clause 19,
The complex UI includes a first area and a second area that is different from the first area,
Operation information of the washing machine is displayed in the first area,
A clothing treatment device in which operation information of the dryer is displayed in the second area. According to clause 22,
The clothing processing device,
When a user touch input for the first area is received, the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the flat display,
A clothing processing device that displays the dryer operation UI on the flat panel display when a user touch input for the second area is received. According to clause 22,
The first area is an upper area of the complex UI,
The second area is a clothing processing device that is a lower area of the complex UI. According to paragraph 1,
The control panel is,
A laundry treatment device further comprising an action button that receives a user input for executing or pausing operation of the washing machine or the dryer. According to clause 25,
The execution button is,
a first execution button that receives user input to execute or pause operation of the washing machine; and
A clothing processing device including a second execution button that receives a user input for executing or temporarily stopping operation of the dryer. According to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The control panel is:
It further includes a power button that receives a user input for turning on or off the power of the washing machine or the dryer,
A clothing processing device wherein the flat display is arranged to occupy a different area from the power button. According to clause 27,
The power button is provided at a location spaced apart from the flat display in one direction,
The clothing processing device wherein the switching button is located between the power button and the flat display. According to clause 28,
Further comprising an execution button that receives a user input for executing or pausing operation of the washing machine or the dryer,
The clothing processing device wherein the execution button is provided at a location spaced apart from the flat display in the other direction. According to clause 27,
The power button is,
a first power button that receives a user input for turning the washing machine on and off; and
A laundry treatment device including a second power button that receives a user input for turning the dryer on and off. According to clause 30,
The clothing processing device,
When receiving a user's input to turn on the power of the washing machine from the first power button, display the washing machine operation UI on the flat display to enable control of the washing machine,
A laundry treatment device that displays the dryer operation UI on the flat panel display to enable control of the dryer when receiving a user's input to turn on the power of the dryer from the second power button. A washing machine provided with a front panel on the front side and a first drum containing clothes therein;
a dryer disposed above the washing machine, provided with a dryer front panel on the front side, and provided with a second drum for storing clothes therein; and
A control panel is provided between the washing machine front panel and the dryer front panel and includes a user interface (UI) for at least one of the washing machine and the dryer,
The control panel is:
A power button that receives a user input for turning on or off the power of the washing machine or dryer;
a flat panel display capable of displaying one of a washing machine operation UI for operating the washing machine and a dryer operation UI for operating the dryer; and
Includes an execution button that receives user input to execute or pause operation of the washing machine or dryer,
The power button is provided at a location spaced apart from the flat display in one direction,
The clothing processing device wherein the execution button is provided at a location spaced apart from the flat display in the other direction. According to clause 32,
A switch button that receives a switch command from the user to display the other one while one of the washing machine control UI and the dryer control UI is displayed on the flat display,
The clothing processing device wherein the switching button is located between the power button and the flat display. According to clause 33,
The control panel is,
Includes a touch film located on the front of the flat display,
A clothing processing device in which the switch button is provided as a touch sensor separate from the touch film. According to clause 32,
The control panel is,
Includes a touch film located on the front of the flat display,
A clothing processing device in which the power button and the execution button are provided as touch sensors separate from the touch film.

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