RU2805049C1 - Device for clothing processing and method for their control - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: washing machines.

SUBSTANCE: clothes treatment device and a method for controlling it, wherein the clothes treatment device is a washing machine made as a whole, in which the washing machine with a dryer and the drying device are installed on top of each other, contains a circulation channel through which air circulates inside the washing machine/dryer or drying device, and a filter assembly that is located in the circulation channel, and the filter assembly can be cleaned using an external water supply in addition to condensed water.

EFFECT: washing machine, which performs both the washing function and the drying function, and the drying device, which performs the drying function, are installed on each other.

20 cl, 9 dwg

Description

Field of technology to which the invention relates

[1] The invention relates to a device for processing clothing. More specifically, it refers to an integral garment treatment apparatus in which a washing machine having both a washing and a drying function and a drying apparatus having a drying function are stacked on each other.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[2] In general, a clothing treatment apparatus is a structure including a washing apparatus configured to wash clothing, a drying apparatus configured to dry wet clothing, a freshener configured to remove odors or wrinkles from clothing, a device for washing and drying clothes, and a steam treatment device configured to remove wrinkles using steam.

[3] The washing apparatus includes a casing forming an exterior, a tank disposed in the casing for storing water, a drum rotatably mounted in the laundry storage tub, and a drive unit rotatable to the drum.

[4] In addition to washing devices, drying devices have been developed and widely used. The drying apparatus may include a drum defining an area for storing clothing, a channel defining a flow path for re-introducing air discharged from the drum into the drum, a first heat exchanger configured to cool the air supplied to the channel from the drum to remove moisture. , a second heat exchanger configured to heat the air passed through the first heat exchanger, and a fan configured to move the air passed through the second heat exchanger into the drum.

[5] In most cases, a washing device and a drying device are used together at home or in a laundry room. In particular, a plurality of washing apparatuses and drying apparatuses are used together in a laundry room. The washing device or the drying device can be used in pairs. In this case, to reduce the installation area, the drying device may be located on the washing device. Also used is a one-piece washing device comprising a housing in which a drying device is located at the top and a washing device is located at the bottom.

[6] However, when the washing device and the drying device are simply arranged on top of each other, the problem of the existing drying device cannot be solved. According to Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2012-0110498, the air discharged from the drum is dried and heated by heat exchangers, and then re-injected into the drum. In this case, foreign substances such as lint may remain in the heat exchangers. To solve this problem, a known clothing treatment apparatus includes a filter for filtering air supplied to the first heat exchanger or a nozzle for spraying water onto the filter or heat exchanger.

[7] A clothing treatment apparatus configured to spray water to remove foreign matter from a filter or heat exchanger typically uses water (condensed water) released from the air passing through the first heat exchanger while drying the clothing. The method of supplying the filter with condensed water generated during drying of clothes is largely divided into the method of using potential energy and the method of using a pump.

[8] Korean Patent No. 10-1410595 discloses a method of using a fall. In this method, the condensed water generated during drying is transferred to a drain tank located at the top of the drum, and then the water from the drain tank is drained onto the filter or heat exchanger when the filter needs to be washed. In contrast, Korean Patent No. 10-1825449 discloses a method for using a pump. In this method, condensed water generated during drying is supplied to a filter or heat exchanger using a pump.

[9] The above two methods have disadvantages in that the filter or heat exchanger washing and the washing degree are determined according to the amount of condensed water generated during drying. In other words, according to the two methods, when the amount of collected condensed water is less than the amount required for washing in the operation of determining whether the required amount (reference washing water level) of condensed water for washing the filter or heat exchanger has been collected, the filter or heat exchanger washed only with condensed water formed during drying, without replenishing it. Thus, in the case of known clothing treatment devices, the filter or heat exchanger may not be sufficiently flushed if the amount of condensed water is small.

[10] In addition, known clothing treatment devices may cause inconvenience to the user because the user must drain accumulated condensed water.

Disclosure

Technical challenge

[11] The purpose of the present disclosure, in order to solve the above problems, is to provide sufficient cleaning water at any time by replenishing the heat exchanger cleaning water according to the circumstances by directly supplying water to the washing machine when the drying device is located on top, and the device for washing is located at the bottom.

[12] Another object of the present disclosure is to simply drain through a drain hole located in the drying apparatus to completely remove residual water from the drying apparatus and prevent hygiene and odor problems caused by the growth of microorganisms.

[13] Another object of the present disclosure is to achieve optimal cleaning efficiency by providing sufficient rinse water.

[14] Another purpose of the present disclosure is to eliminate the inconvenience to consumers associated with the need to drain accumulated condensed water.

Technical solutions

[15] The objects of the present disclosure can be achieved by providing a structure and control method for cleaning a heat exchanger of a bottom-side drying apparatus or a filter disposed in front of the heat exchanger for filtering foreign substances from the apparatus including a washing machine on an upper side and a drying apparatus, made integral with each other, using an external water supply supplying water to the washing machine.

[16] The water supply pipe of the drying device may be branched from the water supply pipe in the washing machine to clean the heat exchanger or filter located in front of the heat exchanger, and may use a pump or part to store condensed water. In this case, cleaning can be carried out using a pump to suck water from the condensed water storage part and a changeover valve. In this case, when the amount of condensed water stored in the condensed water storage part is insufficient, the water is replenished by an external water supply of the washing apparatus.

[17] After cleaning, the waste water including contaminants can be discharged through the drain assembly of the washing machine located outside or below by opening the drain hole formed in the condensed water storage portion.

[18] To this end, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, a garment treatment apparatus is described, including a first casing forming an exterior, a first drum having a cylindrical shape and rotatably disposed in the first casing for accommodating the clothing, a circulation channel configured with the ability to circulate air from the first drum, a heat exchange unit located inside the circulation channel, wherein the heat exchange unit includes a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger configured to carry out heat exchange with the circulating air, a filter unit located inside the circulation channel to separate foreign substances from the circulating air air before heat exchange, a second casing located under the first casing, a tank located inside the second casing for storing water, a second drum rotatably located inside the tank for storing clothes, a condensed water storage part configured to store condensed water formed in as a result of heat exchange with the first heat exchanger, or supplied or sprayed water, a water supply unit connected to an external water supply source for supplying water to the tank or condensed water storage portion, a nozzle configured to spray water from the condensed water storage portion onto the first heat exchanger or a filter assembly, and a drain assembly configured to discharge water from the tank or condensed water storage portion to the outside.

[19] The first housing and the second housing may be formed as one piece.

[20] The condensed water storage portion may be located below the circulation channel.

[21] The apparatus may further include a dryness sensor located in the first drum for measuring the dryness of the clothing.

[22] The condensed water storage portion may include a water level sensor configured to measure the level of water stored in the condensed water storage portion.

[23] The water supply unit may include

[24] a first water supply pipe connected to an external water supply source, a water supply valve configured to open and close the first water supply pipe, a first switching valve configured to select one of the tank or part for storing condensed water and supplying water passed through through the water supply valve there, and a second water supply pipe connecting the first switching valve and the condensed water storage part.

[25] The nozzle may include one or more spray nozzles configured to spray water onto the first heat exchanger or filter assembly, a second switch valve configured to selectively supply water to the one or more spray nozzles, one or more injection ports connecting a second switching valve and one or more spray nozzles, the number of the one or more injections being equal to the number of the one or more spray nozzles, and a water supply pipe of the storage portion configured to supply water stored in the condensed water storage portion to the second switching valve.

[26] The circulation channel may include an inlet channel configured to suck air from the first drum, an outlet channel configured to discharge air passed through the heat exchange unit, and a connecting channel connecting the inlet channel and the exhaust channel and having a heat exchange unit.

[27] One or more spray nozzles may be attached to the top plate defining the connecting channel and spray water onto different areas of the first heat exchanger or filter assembly.

[28] One or more spray nozzles may be arranged adjacent to each other on the top plate in the lateral direction of the first casing, and the one or more spray nozzles may be connected in series with the water supply pipe of the storage portion by a second switching valve to spray water onto the first one. heat exchanger or filter assembly.

[29] The drain assembly may include a drain pump configured to discharge water from the tank to the outside, a first drain pipe connecting the tank and the drain pump, and a second drain pipe configured to drain water from the drain pump to the outside.

[30] The drain assembly may further include a third drain pipe connecting the condensed water storage portion and the first drain pipe or drain pump, and a drain valve configured to open and close the third drain pipe.

[31] Described herein is a garment treatment apparatus including a first casing forming an exterior, a first drum having a cylindrical shape and rotatably disposed in the first casing for housing the clothes, a circulation passage configured to circulate air from the first drum, a heat exchange unit located inside the circulation channel, wherein the heat exchange unit includes a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the circulating air, a filter unit located inside the circulation channel to separate foreign substances from the circulating air before heat exchange, a second casing , located under the first casing, a tank located inside the second casing for storing water, a second drum rotatably located inside the tank for storing clothes, a nozzle configured to spray water onto the first heat exchanger or filter assembly, a water supply unit connected to an external a water supply source for supplying water to the tank or nozzle, a condensed water storage portion configured to store condensed water generated by heat exchange with the first heat exchanger and water sprayed by the nozzle, and a drain unit configured to discharge water from tank or part for storing condensed water to the outside.

[32] In this case, the water supply unit is configured to supply water by dividing water to the tank or nozzle, and may include a branch pipe configured to branch an external water supply source to the tank or nozzle, and a nozzle water supply pipe connecting the branch pipe and a nozzle.

[33] The nozzle may include one or more injection nozzles configured to spray water onto the first heat exchanger or filter assembly, and a switch valve configured to selectively supply water to the one or more injection nozzles, wherein the nozzle water supply pipe may be connected with changeover valve.

[34] The filter assembly may include a first filter element located in the connecting channel, the first filter element may include a first filter configured to filter fluid moving into the first heat exchanger, and a second filter element mounted on the first filter element. a member for filtering fluid moving into the condensed water storage portion.

[35] The nozzle may spray water onto the first heat exchanger or the first filter.

[36] This document describes a method for controlling a garment treatment apparatus including a first casing forming an exterior, a first drum having a cylindrical shape and rotatably disposed in the first casing for accommodating clothing, a circulation passage configured to circulate air from the first drum, a heat exchange unit located inside the circulation channel, a heat exchange unit including a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger configured to carry out heat exchange with the circulating air, a filter unit located inside the circulation channel to separate foreign substances from the circulating air before heat exchange, the second a casing located under the first casing, a tank located inside the second casing for storing water, a second drum rotatably located inside the tank for storing clothes, a condensed water storage portion configured to store condensed water generated by heat exchange with the first heat exchanger , or supplied or sprayed water, a water supply unit connected to an external water supply source for supplying water to the tank or condensed water storage portion, a nozzle configured to spray water from the condensed water storage portion onto the first heat exchanger or filter assembly, a sensor a dryness sensor located in the first drum for measuring the degree of dryness of the clothes, and a water level sensor configured to measure the water level in the condensed water storage portion.

[37] The method may include starting a drying operation by rotating the first drum, comparing a dryness degree measured by a dryness sensor to a predetermined reference dryness degree, and measuring a first water level using the water level sensor when the measured dryness degree is greater than or equal to the reference dryness degree , based on the first water level below the predetermined first reference water level, supplying water to the condensed water storage portion by opening the water supply valve until the second water level measured by the water level sensor is higher than or equal to the predetermined first reference water level, and cleaning the first heat exchanger or filter assembly using a nozzle.

[38] The method may further include, after cleaning the first heat exchanger or filter using the nozzle, closing the water supply valve and draining the residual water from the condensed water storage portion using the drain assembly.

[39] The method may further include calculating the amount of condensed water generated by determining the amount of laundry placed in the first drum using a laundry amount sensor configured to measure the amount of clothes being washed, the calculation being performed before starting the drying operation by rotating the first drum, supplying the missing amount of water to the condensed water storage part by opening the water supply valve.

[40] This document describes a method for controlling a garment treatment apparatus including a first casing forming an exterior, a first drum having a cylindrical shape and rotatably disposed in the first casing for accommodating clothing, a circulation passage configured to circulate air from the first drum, a heat exchange unit located inside the circulation channel, wherein the heat exchange unit includes a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the circulating air, a second casing located under the first casing, a tank located inside the second casing for storing water , a second drum rotatably located inside the tank for storing clothes, a nozzle configured to spray water onto the first heat exchanger, a water supply pipe connected to an external water source for supplying water, a water supply valve configured to open and close the water supply pipe, a condensed water storage portion configured to store condensed water generated by heat exchange with the first heat exchanger, water supplied through a water supply pipe, or water sprayed onto the first heat exchanger by a nozzle, a dryness sensor located in the first drum for measuring the degree of dryness clothing, and a water level sensor configured to measure the water level in the condensed water storage portion, the method including starting a drying operation by rotating the first drum based on a dryness degree measured by the dryness sensor greater than or equal to a predetermined reference dryness degree measurement a first water level using a water level sensor, based on a measured dryness degree greater than or equal to a predetermined reference dryness degree, supplying water to the nozzle by opening the water supply valve, and cleaning the first heat exchanger or filter assembly using the nozzle.

Positive results

[41] According to the present disclosure, sufficient amount of cleaning water can be provided at any time by replenishing the cleaning water of the heat exchanger according to the circumstances by directly supplying water to the washing machine when the drying device is located at the top and the washing device is located at the bottom .

[42] According to the present disclosure, draining can be easily accomplished through a drain hole formed in the drying apparatus, thereby completely removing residual water from the drying apparatus and preventing hygiene and odor problems caused by the growth of microorganisms.

[43] In accordance with the present disclosure, optimal cleaning efficiency can be achieved by providing a sufficient amount of wash water.

[44] According to the present disclosure, the inconvenience of consumers having to drain accumulated condensed water can be eliminated.

Description of drawings

[45] Fig. 1 is an example of a clothing treatment device constructed as an integral part of a washing machine.

[46] FIG. 2 is a sectional view of a garment treatment apparatus.

[47] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram of water supply and drainage in a clothing treatment apparatus. Figure 3(a) is an example of direct injection through an external water supply connected to a switching valve. It also shows that the drain is separate for the dryer on the top side and the washing machine on the bottom side. FIG. 3(b) is an example of direct injection through an external water supply connected to a switching valve as shown in FIG. 3(a). Unlike the case in Fig. 3(a), drainage is carried out through the washing machine drain assembly on the bottom side. Fig. 3(c) is an example in which water from an external water supply is supplied to the condensed water storage part through the water supply valve and the first switching valve, and the water in the condensed water storage part is again sprayed onto the heat exchanger by the first pump and a second switching valve for cleaning the heat exchanger. In this draining example, the water is drained using a drain valve using the washing machine drain assembly on the underside.

[48] FIG. 4(a) is an example in which a plurality of injection nozzles are directly connected to an external water supply source. FIG. 4(b) is an example in which a plurality of injection nozzles are connected to the condensed water storage portion and thus indirectly connected to an external water supply source.

[49] FIG. 5 illustrates a method for controlling the supply of water replenished to the condensed water storage portion by an external water supply to the cleaning nozzle.

[50] FIG. 6 is an example of a drain-related control method carried out in parallel with the control method of the present disclosure.

[51] FIG. 7 is an example of a control method of the present disclosure to which is added an operation of calculating the amount of condensed water generated when using a condensed water storage portion connected to an external water supply source.

[52] Fig. 8 is an example of a specific control method for cleaning a heat exchanger when three injection nozzles are arranged

[53] Fig. 9 is an example of the control method of the present disclosure when the injection nozzle is directly connected to an external water supply source.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[54] Below, preferred embodiments of the garment treatment apparatus and a method for controlling the same will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The structure or control method of the device that will be described below is intended to describe an example of a garment treatment device and a control method thereof and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the description to designate the same or similar parts.

[55] FIG. 1 is an example of an integrally constructed garment treatment apparatus 100. The drawing shows that the first clothing treatment device 1000 is located on the upper side, and the second clothing treatment device 2000 is located below the first clothing treatment device 1000. In general, taking into account the weight, a drying apparatus having a drying function may be arranged as the first clothing treating apparatus 1000, and a washing machine having a washing function may be disposed as the second clothing treating apparatus 2000. Although the first garment treatment device 1000 and the second garment treatment device 2000 are shown to have the same width and depth, the width, depth and height of the second garment treatment device 2000 may be less than the width, depth and height of the first garment treatment device 1000.

[56] Unlike the example shown in FIG. 1, the first housing 110 and the second housing 210 may be formed as one piece. That is, the first bottom panel 106 of the first casing 110 and the second top panel 208 of the second casing may not be positioned above each other to face each other. Instead, the first casing 210 and the second casing 210 may be formed as one piece without the first bottom panel 106 and the second panel 208, and a dividing base (not shown) may be disposed between the first drum 130 and the tub 220. In addition, a dividing base (not shown) located below the first drum 130 can support various elements. That is, it serves as the first bottom panel 106 and functions as a base 180 (see FIG. 4) that supports various members connected thereto.

[57] FIG. 1 also shows that the control panel 910 is located between the first door 113 and the second door 213. Alternatively, the control panel 910 may be located on the front panel 104, 204 of the first housing 110 or the second housing 210. In addition, , the filter assembly 300 may be located in a portion of the control panel 910 . A through hole (not shown) may be formed through which a filter may be inserted while the control panel 910 is rotated to expose its rear surface, for aesthetic purposes. Alternatively, the first front panel 104 or the second front panel 204 may have a filter door 314 and a filter insertion hole 313 (see FIG. 2) may be formed into which a filter (not shown) may be inserted when the filter door 314 open.

[58] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an integral garment treatment apparatus 100. FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of the present invention in which the first garment treating device 1000 may be located on the upper side, and the second clothing treating device 2000 may be located on the lower side. The first clothing treating device 1000 may be a drying device, and the second clothing treating device 2000 may be a washing machine. This arrangement is made with weight in mind only. Unlike this embodiment, the top and bottom parts can be swapped.

[59] First, the second clothing processing device 2000 located on the lower side will be described. The second clothing treatment apparatus 2000 includes a second casing 210 forming an exterior, a tank 220 disposed within the second casing 210 and configured to store washing water, a second drum 230 rotatably mounted within the clothing storage tub, and a second a drive assembly 240 configured to apply torque to the second drum 230 to rotate the second drum 230.

[60] The second casing 210 includes a second inlet 211 for loading and unloading laundry. The second inlet 211 is opened and closed by a second door 213 rotatably mounted on the second casing 210.

[61] Tank 220 includes an inlet 221 in communication with a second inlet 211 and is secured within the second housing 210 by a tank support 219. The tank support 219 may include a spring or damper to help absorb vibration from the tank 220.

[62] Disposed between the tub inlet 221 and the second inlet 211 is a gasket 212. The gasket 212 is a member configured to prevent wash water from being discharged from the tub 220 to the outside and prevent vibration of the tub 220 from being transmitted to the second casing 210.

[63] Tank 220 receives water from water supply unit 250. The water supply unit may include a first water supply pipe 251 connected between a water supply source (not shown) and a tank 220, and a water supply valve 253 configured to open and close the first water supply pipe 251.

[64] The detergent storage unit 270, configured to store detergent, may be further located above the tank 220. The detergent storage unit 270 may include a detergent storage body 271, configured to store the detergent, and a supply pipe. 273 tank, providing communication between the housing 271 for storing detergent and the tank.

[65] In this case, the first water supply pipe 251 may be configured to connect a water supply source (not shown) to the detergent storage housing 271. Accordingly, when water is supplied through the first water supply pipe 251, the detergent stored in the detergent storage body 271 can be supplied to the tank 220.

[66] In addition, the water supply unit 250 may supply water passing through the water supply valve 253 to the detergent storage unit 270 via the first water supply pipe 251, and may supply water to the condensed water storage unit 670 located at the bottom of the first device 1000 for treating clothes, through the second water supply pipe 257. This structure is designed to clean the filter unit 300 by directly storing water supplied to the second clothes treatment device 2000 in the condensed water storage unit 670 and spraying the water onto the filter unit 300.

[67] Alternatively, Y-shaped branch pipe 252 may be connected to an external water supply. In this case, the branch pipe 252 may be connected to the first water supply pipe 251 and the third water supply pipe 256 (see FIG. 3(a)) to supply water from an external water supply to the tank 220 or may be supplied to a nozzle 650, which will be described. below, connected to the third water supply pipe 256. Unlike the second water supply pipe 257, the third water supply pipe 256 can be connected directly to the second switching valve 655 of the nozzle 650 without the intervention of the condensed water storage unit 670 in the connection.

[68] Water stored in the tank 220 is discharged to the outside of the second casing 210 through a drain assembly 260. The drain assembly 260 may include a third drain pipe 263 configured to direct water from the tank 220 to the exterior of the second casing 210, and a drain pump 265 connected to a third drain pipe 263. It may also include a first drain pipe 261 connected to the drain pump 265 for water inside the tank 220, and a second drain pipe 262 configured to direct drain water from the assembly 670 storing the condensed water of the first clothing treatment device 1000 into a drain pump 265.

[69] The second drum 230 located within the tank 220 includes a second drum feed opening 231 in communication with the tank inlet 221. Accordingly, the user can load or unload clothing (or referred to as laundry) into or out of the second drum 230 through the second inlet 211, the tub inlet 221, and the second drum inlet 231.

[70] A plurality of through holes 233 of the second drum providing communication between the interior of the second drum 230 and the tub 220 may be further located in the outer peripheral surface of the second drum 230. Accordingly, water stored in the tub 220 may be supplied to the laundry stored in the second drum. drum 230 through the through holes 233 of the second drum, and the water contained in the laundry can be discharged into the tub 220 through the through holes 233 of the second drum.

[71] The second drum 230 may be rotated by a second drive unit 240 located outside the tub 220. The second drive unit 240 may include a second electric motor 246, i.e. a stator 242 mounted on the rear surface of the tank 220, a rotor 241 rotatable by electromagnetic interaction with the stator 242, and a rotating shaft 243 configured to connect the rotor 241 to the rear surface of the second drum. 230. As described above, the second drum 230 differs from the first drum 130 in that the rotating shaft 243 of the second electric motor 246 is directly coupled to the rear surface of the drum.

[72] When electric power is supplied to the stator 242 from a power source, the stator generates a rotating field, and the rotor 241 is rotated by the rotating field generated by the stator 242. Since the rotation of the rotor 241 is transmitted to the second drum 230 through the rotating shaft 243, the torque required to rotate the second drum 230 may be provided by supplying electrical power to stator 242.

[73] The rotating shaft 243 may be coupled to the second drum 230 and the rotor 241 by a rear surface of the tub 220. In this case, a bearing 223 may be further mounted on the rear surface of the tub 220 to rotatably support the rotating shaft 243.

[74] The first clothing treatment device 1000 located on the upper side includes a first casing 110, a first drum 130 rotatable within the first casing to form a clothing storage area, a circulation passage 400 configured to circulate air the first drum 130, and a heat exchange unit 500 located within the circulation channel 400 for drying and heating the air supplied to the circulation channel 400, and then re-introducing it to the first drum 130.

[75] The first casing 110 may include a first front panel 104 defining a front surface of the first garment treatment device 1000, a first rear panel 105 defining a rear surface of the first clothing treatment device, and a first top panel 108 defining a top surface of the first device. for processing clothes.

[76] The first front panel 104 may include a first loading opening 111 in communication with the first drum 130. The first loading opening 111 may be opened and closed by a first door 113 rotatably coupled to the first housing 110.

[77] A separate control panel (not shown) may be located on the first front panel 104. Alternatively, a control panel 910 for integrally operating the first garment treatment device 1000 and the second clothing treatment device 2000 may be located on the panels 104 and 204 of the first casing 110 and the second casing 210 between the first drum 130 and the tub 220. This structure can be provided in consideration of user convenience in terms of access.

[78] The control panel 910 may include an input device (not shown) and a display (not shown). The input device may include a power supply request device configured to request power supply to the clothing treatment apparatus 100, a mode input device capable of allowing the user to select a predetermined mode among a plurality of modes, and an execution request device configured to request the start of the mode selected user. The display may include at least one display panel capable of outputting text and graphics, and a speaker capable of outputting speech and audio.

[79] When the first drum 130 is configured as a cylindrical body 131 having a front side and openings, a front support 170 for rotatably supporting the front side of the first drum 130 and a second support 190 for rotatably supporting the rear side of the first drum 130 can be formed in the first casing 110.

[80] The first support 170 may include a first stationary member 171 fixed to the first housing 110, a first drum feed opening 173 formed by the first stationary member for communicating the first feed opening 111 with the first drum housing 131, and a first support a member 175 located on the first stationary member 171 and inserted into the front side (first hole) of the first drum body 131.

[81] The first stationary member 171 may have any shape that provides location of the first drum feed opening 173 and the first support member 175. The first support member 175 may be in the shape of a pipe extending from the first stationary member 171 to the first drum body 131, and the diameter of the first The support element 175 can be installed larger than the diameter of the loading hole 173 of the first drum and smaller than the diameter of the front surface of the housing 131 of the first drum. In this case, the first drum loading opening 173 may be located within the area defined by the first support member 175.

[82] The first support 170 may further include a connecting member 177 connecting the first loading opening 111 and the loading opening 173 of the first drum. The connecting member 177 may be in the form of a pipe extending from the first drum feed opening 173 to the first loading opening 111. The connecting member 177 may include an air outlet 178 in communication with the circulation passage 400. The circulation passage 400 includes an inlet passage 410 configured with the ability to suck air from the first drum 130, an outlet channel 490 configured to discharge air passed through the inlet channel 410 back into the first drum 130, and a connecting channel 450 connecting the inlet channel 410 and the outlet channel 490 and containing a heat exchange unit 500.

[83] As shown in FIG. 2, the air outlet 178 is a passage through which air can flow from the first drum body 131 to the inlet passage 410, and may be configured as a through hole formed in the connecting member 177.

[84] As shown in FIG. 2, the second support 190 may include a second stationary member 191 secured within the first housing 110 and a second support member 195 located on the second stationary member 191 and inserted into the rear side (second opening) of the housing. 131 of the first reel. The second support 190 includes an air inlet 198 formed in the second stationary member 191 for communicating the interior of the first drum housing 131 with the interior of the first casing 110. In this case, the circulation path 400 may be configured to connect the air outlet 178 and the air inlet holes 198.

[85] The first drum cylindrical body 131 having a hollow cylindrical shape can be rotated by various types of first drive units. 2 shows a case where the first drive unit 140 includes a first motor 141 mounted inside the first casing 110, a pulley 145 rotated by the first motor 141, and a belt 143 connecting a peripheral surface of the pulley 145 and a peripheral surface of the first drum housing 131.

[86] In this case, the first support 170 may include a first roller 132 configured to rotatably support a peripheral surface of the first drum housing 131, and the second support 190 may include a second roller 134 configured to rotatably support a peripheral surface of the first drum housing 131 .

[87] The circulation passage 400 may include an inlet passage 410 connected to the air outlet 178, an outlet passage 490 connected to the air inlet 198, and a connection passage 450 connecting the inlet passage 410 and the outlet passage 490.

[88] The heat exchange unit 500 can be implemented using various devices that provide sequential dehumidification and heating of the air supplied to the circulation channel 400. Figure 2 shows the case where the heat exchange unit 500 is designed as a heat pump.

[89] The heat exchange assembly 500 shown in FIG. 2 includes a fan 470 configured to move air through the connecting channel 450, a first heat exchanger (heat absorbing element) 510 configured to remove moisture from the air supplied to the connecting channel 450 , and a second heat exchanger (heating element) 530 located inside the connecting channel 450 for heating air passing through the first heat exchanger 510.

[90] The fan 470 may include an impeller 471 located in the circulation passage 400, and an electric motor 473 configured to rotate the impeller 471. The impeller 471 may be located in any of the exhaust passage 490, the connecting passage 450, and the inlet passage 410. FIG. 2 shows the case where the impeller 471 is located in the outlet passage 490 and is located behind the second heat exchanger 520.

[91] In another embodiment, fan 470 may be located in front of the heat exchange assembly 500, that is, in front of the first heat exchanger.

[92] The first heat exchanger 510 may include a plurality of metal plates located in the width direction (Y-axis direction) of the connecting channel 450 or the height direction (Z-axis direction) of the connecting channel, and the second heat exchanger 520 may include a plurality of metal plates located in the connection channel width direction or the connection channel height direction. The first heat exchanger 510 and the second heat exchanger 520 are sequentially arranged in the connecting passage 450 in the direction from the inlet passage 410 to the outlet passage 490, and connected to each other by a refrigerant pipe 580 that defines a flow path for circulating the refrigerant.

[93] The refrigerant is moved through the refrigerant pipe 580 by a compressor 570 located outside the circulation passage 400. The refrigerant pipe 580 includes an expansion element 550 configured to regulate the pressure of the refrigerant passing through the second heat exchanger 520.

[94] The second heat exchanger 520 is configured to cool the air and evaporate the refrigerant by transferring heat from the air supplied to the inlet passage 410 to the refrigerant. The second heat exchanger 520 is configured to heat the air and condense the refrigerant by transferring the heat of the refrigerant passed through the compressor 570 to the air. In this case, moisture contained in the air may collect on the lower surface of the connecting channel 450 along the surface of the first heat exchanger 510 while passing through the first heat exchanger 510.

[95] To collect condensed water from the air passing through the first heat exchanger 510, a condensed water storage portion 670 is located in the clothing treatment apparatus 100. FIG. 2 shows a case where the condensed water storage portion 670 is located in the connecting channel 450 and is located under the first heat exchanger 510 and the second heat exchanger 520. This structure is designed to move the condensed water by gravity without the help of a mechanism or mechanical device that causes movement of condensed water.

[96] As shown in FIG. 4(b), the condensed water storage portion 670 may include a water collection body 671 fixed to a lower surface of the connecting channel 450 and in communication with the interior of the connecting channel. The heat exchanger support may be further located in the water collection housing 671 such that the first heat exchanger 510 and the second heat exchanger 520 do not come into contact with water (condensed water) stored in the water collection housing 671. The heat exchanger support may include a support plate 672 configured to contact the first heat exchanger 510 and the second heat exchanger 520, a spacer 675 configured to maintain a gap between the support plate 672 and the bottom surface of the water collection housing 671, and a support plate through hole 674 , made in the support plate 672.

[97] The support plate through hole 674 may be located only in the region in which the first heat exchanger 510 is supported in the regions defined by the support plate 672, or may be located in the region in which the first heat exchanger is supported and in the region in which the second is supported heat exchanger, respectively. When the through hole 674 of the support plate is located even below the second heat exchanger 520, water transferred to the second heat exchanger 520 along the support plate 672 can be discharged into the water collection housing 671. This design is intended to prevent a reduction in heat transfer efficiency that occurs when the second heat exchanger 520 comes into contact with water, as is the case with the first heat exchanger 510.

[98] To minimize the accumulation of foreign matter (lint, etc.) discharged from the first drum housing 131 on the first heat exchanger 510 and the second heat exchanger 520, the first clothing treatment device 1000 may further include a filter assembly 300 configured with possibility of air filtration. 4(b) shows a case where the filter assembly 300 includes a first filter element 350 located in the connecting passage 450 and a second filter element 370 located in the inlet passage 410.

[99] The second filter element 370 may be configured to filter air passing into the inlet passage 410 from the first drum housing 131, and the first filter element 350 may be positioned between the second filter element 370 and the first heat exchanger 510 to filter air passing through the second filter element 370.

[100] The first filter element 350 may be removably located in the connecting channel 450. In this case, the first front panel 104 of the first housing may include a filter insertion hole 313 (see FIG. 2) from which the first filter element is removable. 350, and a filter door 314 configured to open and close the filter insertion hole 313. The connecting channel 450 may include a through channel hole 3150 (see FIG. 4(b)) into which the first filter element 350 is inserted. Accordingly, the user can detach the first filter element 350 from the garment treatment device to remove foreign matter if necessary. remaining in the first filter element 350, and washing the first filter element.

[101] As shown in FIG. 4(b), the first filter element 350 may include a first frame 353 inserted into the passage through hole 315 and located between the second filter element 370 and the first heat exchanger 510, and filters 351 and 352 located in the first frame 353 for filtering fluid moving into the first heat exchanger 510 and housing 671 for collecting water.

[102] The first frame 353 may be formed into various shapes according to the cross-sectional shape (Y-Z plane and X-Z plane) of the connecting channel 450. FIG. 2 shows a case where the first frame 353 is formed into a hexagon-like shape.

[103] In this case, a filter inlet for supplying air passed through the second filter element 370 into the first frame 353 may be formed in the upper surface of the first frame 353, and a handle 317 protruding toward the filter insertion hole 313 may be located on a front surface of the first frame 353. The filters 351 and 352 may include a first filter 351 located on a rear surface of the first frame 353 and a second filter 352 located on a bottom surface of the first frame 353. The rear surface of the first frame may be a surface facing the first heat exchanger 510 in the area formed by the first frame 353, and the lower surface of the first frame can be installed as a surface facing the lower surface of the connecting channel 450 and the filter insertion hole.

[104] The second filter element 370 may include a second frame 371 removably inserted into the inlet passage 410 through the air outlet 178, and a third filter 373 located in the second frame for filtering air. The diameters of the filter holes formed in the first filter 351 and the second filter 352 can be set smaller than the diameters of the filter holes formed in the third filter 373. Therefore, after relatively large foreign substances can be filtered first by the third filter, and then smaller foreign substances may be filtered by the first filter 351 and the second filter 352.

[105] As shown in FIG. 2, the first clothing treatment device 100 may further include a nozzle 650 configured to flush the first filter element 350 with water stored in the water collection housing 671, a drain assembly 260 configured with the ability to release water from the water collection housing 671 to the outside of the water collection housing 671.

[106] As shown in FIG. 2, the nozzle 650 may be configured to flush at least one of the first filter 351, the second filter 352, and the first heat exchanger 510 by spraying water stored in the water collection housing 671 onto the first filter element 350. The nozzle 650 may include a nozzle 650 located in the connecting channel 450 for supplying water to the first filter element 350, and a water supply pump 711 configured to move water stored in the water collection housing 671 to the nozzle 650.

[107] The water supply pump 711 may be connected to the water collection body 671 by a water supply pump connecting pipe 713, and may be connected to the nozzle 650 by a storage portion water supply pipe 715.

[108] The nozzle 650 may include a nozzle mounted on the connecting channel 450 for spraying water onto the first filter 351 and the second filter 352, or as a nozzle for spraying water onto each of the front surfaces of the first filter 351, the second filter 352, and the first heat exchanger 510.

[109] The cleaning function of the nozzle 650 is to prevent foreign matter from adhering to the first filter 351, the second filter 352, and the first heat exchanger 510, which degrades the filtration performance of the filters and the heat transfer performance of the heat exchange unit and causes hygiene problems.

[110] FIG. 4(b) shows a case where the nozzle 650 includes a connecting channel through hole 652 formed in the connecting channel 450 for connecting the injection channel 653, a first guide 6581 configured to guide water supplied through the through hole 652 connecting channel to the first filter 351, and a second guide 6582 configured to direct at least a portion of the water supplied through the first guide 6581 to the front surface of the first heat exchanger 510. In this case, the second guide 6582 may be configured as element for supplying water to the front surface of the first heat exchanger 510 through the first filter 351. That is, when the first filter element 350 is secured to the connecting channel 450, the first filter 351 may be located between the first guide 6581 and the second guide 6582, and the second guide 6582 may include including a downward slope toward the first filter 351 from the top surface of the connecting channel 450.

[111] The guide through hole 659 may be further formed in the first guide 6581. The guide through hole 659 is a hole formed in the first guide 6581, and water supplied to the connecting channel through hole 652 may be supplied to the front portion of the first heat exchanger 510 through the guide through hole 659. The front portion of the first heat exchanger means a portion located on the side facing the first filter 351 relative to a vertical line passing through the center of the first heat exchanger 510.

[112] The above-described clothing treatment apparatus 100 can clean the first filter element 350 and the first heat exchanger 510 with water stored in the water collection housing 671 during operation of the heat exchanger unit 500. However, when the amount of water stored in the water collection housing 671 is small, cleaning of the first filter element 350 and the first heat exchanger 510 may not be performed. When the amount of clothing loaded into the first drum housing 131 is small, the amount of water collected in the water collecting housing 671 during operation of the heat exchange unit 500 may be small. When the amount of water stored in the collection body is small, sufficient water to clean the first filter element 350 and the first heat exchanger 510 cannot be supplied to the nozzle 650.

[113] To solve the above problem, the garment treatment apparatus 100 can supply water to the water collecting body 671 of the condensed water storage portion 670 using an external water supply source required for the second garment treatment apparatus 2000.

[114] As shown in FIG. 2, the water supply unit 250 includes a first water supply pipe 251 connected to an external water supply source, and a water supply valve 253 configured to open and close the first water supply pipe 251. Although the first water supply pipe 251 and water supply valve 253 are provided for the washing function of the first garment treatment apparatus 1000, and are used to provide sufficient water to clean the first filter element 350 of the filter assembly 300 and clean the first heat exchanger. For this purpose, the water passed through the water supply valve 253 may be supplied to the first clothing treatment device 1000 or the second clothing treatment device 2000 through the first switching valve 255.

[115] That is, the first switching valve 255 is a valve capable of switching the water supply direction by selecting either the tank 220 or the condensed water storage portion 670. The controller may operate the first switch valve 255 to supply water to one of the second clothing treatment device 2000 and the first clothing treatment device 1000. Alternatively, while water is supplied to the first clothing treatment device 1000, the controller may cause water to be supplied to the second clothing treatment device 2000 when water is required.

[116] The flow path through which water is supplied to the water collecting body 671 of the condensed water storage portion 670 by the first switch valve 255 will be described below. A second water supply pipe 257 is located between the first switching valve 255 and the water collection housing 671 to connect the first switching valve 255 and the water collecting housing 671. The water passing through the first switching valve 255 is supplied to the water collection housing 671 through the second water supply pipe 257.

[117] The supplied water is used to clean the first heat exchanger 510 or the first filter element 350, specifically the first filter 351 and the second filter 352 of the filter assembly 300 using a nozzle 650.

[118] The flow path of the nozzle 650 may include a water supply pump 711 for supplying water stored in the water collection housing 671 . The water supply connecting pipe 713 may be connected to the water collection body 671 and the water supply pump 711, and the nozzle 650 and the water supply pump 711 may be connected to the water supply pipe 715 of the storage part.

[119] The nozzle 650 may be mounted on a connecting channel top plate 451 forming a connecting channel upper member. The nozzle 650 may include an injection nozzle 651 configured to spray water to clean the first heat exchanger 510 or the first filter element 350, and an injection passage 653 connecting the injection nozzle 651 to the water supply pipe 715 of the storage portion.

[120] Due to the compact structure of the clothing treatment apparatus, the size of the water collection housing 671 of the condensed water storage portion 670 can be small. In this case, the performance of the water supply pump 711 may be limited. To overcome this limitation and spray water uniformly, a plurality of injection nozzles 651 may be arranged on the first heat exchanger or first filter element 350. Thus, the same number of injection pipes 653 may be arranged. To spray water while maintaining sufficient water pressure, water cannot simultaneously supplied through injection pipes 653, or may be selectively injected into one of the injection pipes 653.

[121] In addition, when it is determined that the level of contamination is high in a particular area of the first heat exchange unit 500 or filter unit 300, only the area with a high level of pollution can be cleaned by spraying water.

[122] When it is determined that a portion of the first heat exchange assembly or filter assembly that is cleaned by spraying water through the first spray nozzle is heavily soiled, the controller may use the first spray nozzle to clean only the corresponding portion.

[123] When a plurality of injection nozzles 651 are arranged, each injection nozzle can be selected, and water can be supplied through the corresponding injection path 653. Moreover, spraying can be performed sequentially.

[124] For example, when three spray nozzles are arranged, water can be sprayed by supplying water first to the first spray nozzle. Then, after a predetermined time, the water can be atomized by supplying water to the second atomizing nozzle. Then, when the predetermined time has elapsed again, water can be sprayed by supplying water to the third spray nozzle.

[125] For the above-described sequential spray method, the water supply pipe 715 of the storage part and the plurality of injection pipes 653 cannot be connected directly, but can be connected by the second switching valve 655.

[126] That is, the second switching valve 655 can be controlled by the controller to switch the water direction to supply water to each injection pipe for a predetermined time. For example, a three-way solenoid valve can be used as the second switching valve.

[127] Accordingly, when there is not enough water in the water collecting housing 671, the controller can control the first switching valve 255 and the second water supply pipe to receive water from the condensed water storage portion 670. If necessary, the first filter element 350 and the first heat exchanger 510 can be cleaned by supplying water stored in the water collection body 671 through the water supply pump 711, the storage portion water supply pipe 715, the second switching valve 655, the injection port 653, and the injection nozzle. 651.

[128] Alternatively, water may be supplied directly to the nozzle 650 via branch pipe 252 without passing through the water collection housing 671. This case will be described later with reference to FIG. 3.

[129] As shown in FIGS. 2 or 4(b), the clothing treatment apparatus 100 may include a water level sensor 693 configured to sense a water level in a water collection housing 671 and transmit the measured level to a controller. When the water level sensor 693 is located, the clothing treatment device may drain water from the water collection housing 671, thereby preventing water from the water collection housing 671 from flowing back into the connecting channel 450. This may also prevent the water level in the water collection housing 671 from rising. The water collecting portion 670 for storing condensed water when the drain is blocked or the water pressure is high, and thus the amount of supplied water is greater than the amount of drained water while cleaning the filter assembly and/or the first heat exchanger with the nozzle 650. Thus, the problem backflow can be prevented.

[130] The water level sensor 693 may be implemented by any device that provides detection of the water level in the water collection housing 671 . Figure 2 or 4(b) shows a sensor comprising a plurality of electrodes (electrically connected according to the water level) having different lengths as an example. Alternatively, the water level can be determined by detecting the position of a float located on the bottom surface of the water collecting body 671 and raising it according to the water level.

[131] When the water level measured by the water level sensor 693 is less than a predetermined reference water level, the controller located in the clothing treatment apparatus may open the water supply valve 253 and switch the first switching valve 255 to supply water to the collection housing 671 water through the second water supply pipe 257 and the water supply pipe 715 of the storage part. The supply water may be supplied to the nozzle 650 by the water supply pump 711.

[132] Accordingly, the clothing treatment apparatus 100 can minimize the problem of the first filter element 350 or the first heat exchanger 510 being unable to be cleaned due to a lack of water in the water collection body 671. That is, the above operation is designed to satisfy the reference water level to ensure maximum cleaning efficiency by adding the water required for cleaning.

[133] The above-described clothing treatment apparatus may drain water from the water collection housing 671 through the drain assembly 260 based only on the water level sensor 693, or may control the response time and duration of operation of the water supply valve 253 configured to open and close the first water supply pipes 251 for adjusting the time at which water is supplied to the condensed water storage portion 670 and the amount of water supplied to the condensed water storage portion 670.

[134] Water sprayed by the nozzle 650, water condensed by the heat exchange unit 500, and water stored in the condensed water storage portion 670 by the water supply unit 250 are all stored in the water collecting body 671. Accordingly, only the condensed water can exceed the full water level depending on the capacity of the water collection housing 671 while the drying function of the first clothing treatment device 100 is performed. In this case, it is necessary to drain the water to prevent the backflow of stored water.

[135] In addition, when the first filter element and/or the first heat exchanger is cleaned by the nozzle 650, water from the condensed water storage portion 670 is used, and thus the water level must be lowered. However, when the drain is blocked or the water pressure is high, and thus the water supply speed is greater than the water drain speed, the water level in the water collecting body 671 of the condensed water storage portion 670 cannot be lowered. Accordingly, the water can be drained by detecting the water level using the water level sensor 693.

[136] As shown in FIG. 4(b), the drain assembly 260 may include a drain hole 672 formed in a lower surface of the housing 671 for collecting water, a drain valve 681 opened and closed by a control unit for draining water from the collection housing water, a drain valve connecting pipe 682 connecting the drain valve 681 and the drain hole 672, a first drain pipe 261 configured to discharge water from the tank 220 to the drain pump 265, a second drain pipe 262 configured to discharge water discharged by the drain pump to outer side, and a third drain pipe 263 connecting the drain valve 681 and the drain pump 265.

[137] Herein, the drain pump 265 does not simply refer to a pump used to move water. The drain pump 265 may include a drain pump housing (not shown) in communication with a first drain pipe 261 or a third drain pipe 263 to form a water storage area, a drain pump impeller (not shown) rotatable within the drain pump housing , a drain pump motor (not shown) configured to rotate the drain pump impeller, and a drain pump outlet (not shown) formed in a peripheral surface of the drain pump housing and connected to the second drain pipe 262.

[138] Even when the water level in the water collection body 671 is low, the water remaining in the water collection body 671 of the condensed water storage portion 670 needs to be drained after the cleaning operation of the heat exchanger and filter assembly is completed or the drying cycle is completed. This is intended to prevent problems associated with hygiene and odor in the clothing treatment device 100. Even so, any remaining water can be drained using a drain hole 672 located on the bottom surface of the water collection body 671.

[139] In addition, the clothing treatment apparatus described herein may further include a controller (not shown). The controller can be positioned in any position as long as it can control the garment treatment device. Typically, the controller may be mounted on the rear side of the control panel 910 so that it is not visible. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. The controller may control the rotation of the first drum 130 and the second drum 230, determine the degree of dryness using the dryness sensor 691, and clean the first heat exchanger and/or filter assembly using the water supply valve 253, the first switching valve 255, the second switching valve 655, and the water pump 711 of the unit. 250 water supply. In addition, the water level can be measured using the water level sensor 693 of the water collection housing 671. Then, when the full water level is reached, the controller may open the drain valve 681 to drain the water. Then, the controller may control the drain pump 265 to discharge water to the outside.

[140] As shown in FIGS. 2 or 4(b), the clothing treatment apparatus 100 may include dryness sensors 691 and 692 for determining the degree of dryness of the clothing to determine when to stop operation of the heat exchange unit 500. The dryness sensors 691 and 692 may include including at least one of an electrode sensor 691 configured to contact the clothing for measuring the amount of moisture contained in the clothing, and a humidity sensor 692 configured to measure the humidity of air passing into the circulation channel 400 from the first drum 130 .

[141] As shown in FIG. 4(b), the electrode sensor 691 may include two electrodes mounted on the first stationary member 171 to contact the clothing within the first drum housing 131. As the degree of dryness increases, the amount of moisture contained in the clothing will decrease (the electrical resistance of the clothing will increase). Accordingly, the clothing treatment apparatus 100 can determine the dryness level of the clothing by observing the electrical resistance measured when two electrodes are connected by the clothing.

[142] On the other hand, as the degree of dryness of the clothes increases, the amount of moisture contained in the air supplied to the circulation channel 400 will decrease. Accordingly, the clothing treatment device 100 can also determine the dryness level of the clothing by monitoring the humidity of the air supplied to the inlet passage 410 using the humidity sensor 692.

[143] When the dryness degree measured by the dryness sensor 691 after the drying cycle started by rotating the first drum 130 is greater than or equal to a predetermined reference dryness degree, the controller can determine the amount of water stored in the condensed water storage portion 670 with using water level sensor 693. When the collected water is insufficient, the controller may control the water supply unit 250 to supply water to the condensed water storage portion 670. When there is not enough water, the nozzle can spray water immediately, but the amount of water stored in the water collection body may be less than the amount of cleaning water. Therefore, water may need to be replenished during spraying. In this case, the amount of water currently stored in the condensed water storage portion 670 can be determined using the water level sensor 693. When it is determined that the collected water is insufficient, the water supply unit 250 may be controlled to supply water to the condensed water storage portion 670.

[144] Although not shown in the drawings, the clothing processing apparatus 100 may further include a laundry quantity sensor configured to detect the amount of clothing stored in the first drum housing 131. The laundry quantity sensor may be configured as a means for transmitting an amount of electric current supplied to the first drive unit motor 141 to rotate the first drum housing 131 at a predetermined rotation speed, or as a means for transmitting to the controller the rotation speed of the first drum housing 131 obtained , when a current of a specified magnitude is supplied for a specified time.

[145] When the laundry amount sensor is located, the controller can determine the amount of condensed water generated from the clothes placed in the first drum by measuring the amount of laundry. When it is determined that the amount of condensed water generated is less than the amount needed to clean the first filter element 350 or the first heat exchanger 510, the water may be replenished from an external water supply before cleaning the first filter element 350 or the first heat exchanger 510.

[146] When it is determined that the amount of water stored in the water collecting housing 671 is greater than the amount required to clean the first filter element 350 or the first heat exchanger 510, that is, when it is determined that the amount of water stored in the water collecting housing 671 exceeds a predetermined reference level by the water level sensor 693, the controller may open the drain valve 681 to drain the water.

[147] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram of water supply and drainage in a clothing treatment apparatus 100. The drawing schematically shows how water is supplied and drained.

[148] FIG. 3(a) is an embodiment in which an external water supply is distributed to the first clothing treatment device 1000 and the second clothing treatment device 2000 via the branch pipe 252. That is, unlike the case described above , water can be supplied to the nozzle 650 by a switch valve 657 directly connected thereto without using either of the first switch valve 255 or the second switch valve 655. That is, the water supply can be directly connected and used without using the condensed water storage part 670 .

[149] The water passed through the branch pipe 252 is supplied to the first clothing treatment device 100 or the second clothing treatment device 100 through the first water supply pipe 241 or the third water supply pipe 256. Herein, the third water supply pipe 256 is directly connected to the nozzle 650, while the second water supply pipe 257 described above is connected to the condensed water storage portion 670.

[150] Similarly, the injector 650 includes an injection nozzle 651, an injection port 653, and a switch valve 657. Likewise, a three-way switch valve using a solenoid can be used as the switch valve 657. When such a switch valve is used, the injection nozzle may include one or more injection nozzles, and the injection pipe may include injection pipes in the same number as the injection nozzles, and be connected to the switch valve 657. The switch valve is functionally the same. , like the second switch valve 655 in that it is a three-way switch valve. However, unlike the second switch valve 655, the switch valve is directly connected to the branch pipe 252 from the external water supply.

[151] The drain assembly 260 may include a drain hole 672 formed in a lower surface of the water collecting housing 671 of the condensed water storage portion 670, a drain valve 681, a drain valve connecting pipe 682 connecting the drain hole 672 and a drain valve 681, and a fourth drain pipe 264 configured to discharge water from the drain valve 681 directly to the outside. The first clothing treatment device 100 may drain water stored in the tank 220 using a drain pump 265.

[152] Figure 3(b) is another embodiment of water supply and drainage. As in the case of FIG. 3(a), water may be supplied to the nozzle 650 by a switch valve 657 connected thereto. That is, the water supply can be directly connected without using the condensed water storage portion 670. However, unlike the drainage unit in the embodiment of FIG. 3(a), drainage is not performed separately in the first clothing treatment device 100 and the second clothing treatment device 100, but is performed jointly through the second drain pipe 262. While 3(b) shows that the water has passed through the drain valve 681, and the third drain pipe 263 is directly connected to the second drain pipe 262, the water can be discharged by the drain pump 265.

[153] FIG. 3(c) is another embodiment. Unlike FIG. 3(a) or FIG. 3(b), the embodiment includes a first water supply pipe 251 connected to an external water supply source, and a water supply valve 253 configured to open and close the first water supply pipe 251 Although the first water supply pipe 251 and the water supply valve 253 are for the washing function of the first clothing treatment apparatus 1000, they are used to provide sufficient water to clean the first filter element 350 of the filter assembly 300 and clean the first heat exchanger. For this purpose, the water passed through the water supply valve 253 may be supplied to the first clothing treatment device 1000 or the second clothing treatment device 2000 via the first switching valve 255.

[154] That is, the first switching valve 255 is a valve for switching the water supply direction by selecting either the tank 220 or the condensed water storage portion 670. The controller may operate the first switch valve 255 to supply water to one of the second clothing treatment device 2000 and the first clothing treatment device 1000. Alternatively, while water is supplied to the first clothing treatment device 1000, the controller may cause water to be supplied to the second clothing treatment device 2000 when water is required.

[155] The flow path through which water is supplied to the water collecting body 671 of the condensed water storage portion 670 by the first switching valve 255 will be described below. A second water supply pipe 257 is located between the first switching valve 255 and the water collection housing 671 to connect the first switching valve 255 and the water collecting housing 671. The water passing through the first switching valve 255 is supplied to the water collection housing 671 through the second water supply pipe 257.

[156] The drain assembly 260 shown in FIG. 3(c) may include a drain hole 672 formed in the lower surface of the housing 671 for collecting water, a drain valve 681 opened and closed by the control unit for draining water from the housing for water collection, a drain valve connecting pipe 682 connecting the drain valve 681 and the drain hole 672, a first drain pipe 261 configured to discharge water from the tank 220 to the drain pump 265, a second drain pipe 262 configured to discharge water discharged by the drain pump to the outside, and a third drain pipe 263 connecting the drain valve 681 and the drain pump 265.

[157] Herein, the drain pump 265 does not simply refer to a pump used to move water. The drain pump 265 may include a drain pump housing (not shown) in communication with a first drain pipe 251 or a third drain pipe 253 to form a water storage area, a drain pump impeller (not shown) rotatably located within the drain pump housing , a drain pump motor (not shown) configured to rotate the drain pump impeller, and a drain pump outlet (not shown) formed in the peripheral surface of the drain pump body and connected to the second drain pipe 252. In FIG. 3(c) another water collection area is shown to be located under the second clothing treatment device 100 located on the lower side, but this only means that the drain pump 265 has a water storage area and thus can directly communicate with the third drain pipe 253 Accordingly, a water collection device other than the drain pump 265 may or may not be located.

[158] FIG. 4(a) shows an example in which a plurality of injection nozzles are directly connected to an external water supply. As described with reference to FIG. 3(a) or 3(b), the drawing shows that the external water supply is directly connected to the injection port 653 and the injection nozzle 651 by a switch valve 657. Herein, there are three injection pipes 6531, 6533 and 6535 may be connected to three injection nozzles 6511, 6512 and 6113, respectively, and a switching valve 657 may connect each of the injection pipes to the third water supply pipe 256 at predetermined intervals.

[159] This is intended to achieve the same effect by maintaining a constant injection pressure in any environment since the water pressure may vary according to the environment in which the garment treatment device 100 is used. In other words, the switching valve 657 is used to selectively connect one of the injection pipes so that only one injection pipe is connected at a time, as opposed to distributing water pressure by connecting three injection pipes simultaneously.

[160] The three injection pipes 6531, 6533 and 6535 can be secured to the connecting channel top plate 451 by the first locking members 6541, 6543 and 6545 and the second locking members 6561, 6563 and 6565 so as not to wobble under water pressure. The first locking assembly 654 may be coupled to the switching valve 657 to lock the injection port 653 extending above the top plate, and the second locking assembly 656 may be locking the injection port 653 in a position where the spray nozzle 651 is located.

[161] The top plate 451 is a portion forming a body of the connecting channel. The connecting channel body is divided into an upper plate 451 and a lower plate (not shown). The bottom plate is not formed separately. Instead, the shape of the bottom plate is formed when the base 180 on which the connecting channel is located is manufactured by injection molding. The top plate 451 is connected to the mold to form a flow path through which air passes.

[162] An injection nozzle 651 is inserted into the connection channel through the through hole 652 of the connection channel to spray water onto the first heat exchanger and/or the first filter element 350.

[163] As shown in the drawing, a plurality of injection nozzles 651 are arranged adjacent to each other on the top plate 451 in the lateral direction of the connecting passage 450. The lateral direction of the connecting passage 450 is a direction perpendicular to the direction in which air flows inside the connecting passage 450. When Water is sequentially sprayed through a plurality of spray nozzles 651, each of the spray nozzles being able to clean a portion of the first heat exchanger 510 and/or the first filter element 350 at the spray section. Since water is sequentially sprayed through all of the injection nozzles 651, the front portion of the first heat exchanger 510 and/or the first filter element can be cleaned.

[164] Alternatively, water can be simultaneously sprayed through cleaning nozzles. In addition, cleaning can be performed repeatedly.

[165] FIG. 4(b) shows an example in which a plurality of injection nozzles are connected to the condensed water storage portion and thus indirectly connected to an external water supply source. That is, the second water supply pipe 257 is located between the first switching valve 255 and the water collecting body 671 to connect the first switching valve 255 and the water collecting housing 671. The water passing through the first switch valve 255 is supplied to the water collection housing 671 through the second water supply pipe 257. The supplied water is used to clean the first heat exchanger 510 or the first filter element 350, specifically the first filter 351 and the second filter 352 of the filter assembly 300 with injectors 650.

[166] The flow path of the nozzle 650 may include a water supply pump 711 for supplying water stored in the water collection housing 671 . The water supply connecting pipe 713 may be connected by the water collection body 671 and the water supply pump 711, and the nozzle 650 and the water supply pump 711 may be connected by the water supply pipe 715 of the storage portion.

[167] The nozzle 650 may be mounted on a connecting channel top plate 451 forming a connecting channel upper member. The nozzle 650 may include an injection nozzle 651 configured to spray water to clean the first heat exchanger 510 or the first filter element 350, and an injection passage 653 connecting the injection nozzle 651 to the water supply pipe 715 of the storage portion.

[168] Due to the compact structure of the clothing treatment apparatus, the size of the water collection housing 671 of the condensed water storage portion 670 can be small. In this case, the performance of the water supply pump 711 may be limited. To overcome this limitation and uniformly spray water onto the first heat exchanger or first filter element 350, a plurality of injection nozzles 651 may be arranged. Thus, the same number of injection pipes 653 may be arranged. To spray water while maintaining sufficient water pressure, water cannot simultaneously supplied through the water supply pipes 653, but may be selectively injected into one of the injection pipes 653. That is, when a plurality of injection nozzles 651 are arranged, each injection nozzle may be selected, and water may be supplied through the corresponding injection port 653. In addition, spraying may be performed sequentially.

[169] For example, when three spray nozzles are arranged, water can be atomized by supplying water to the first spray nozzle 6511 first. Then, after a predetermined time has elapsed, water can be atomized by supplying water to the second spray nozzle 6515. Then, when the predetermined time has elapsed again, the water can be sprayed by supplying water to the third spray nozzle 6517.

[170] For the above-described sequential spray method, the water supply pipe 715 of the storage part and the plurality of injection pipes 653 cannot be directly connected, but can be connected through the second switching valve 655.

[171] That is, the second switching valve 655 can be driven by the controller to switch the water direction to supply water to each injection pipe for a predetermined time. For example, a three-way solenoid valve can be used as the second switching valve.

[172] A fan 470 may be located at the rear of the connecting channel 450 or at the entrance of the exhaust channel 490 to force air circulation. The fan 470 may include an impeller 471 located in the circulation passage 400, and a fan motor 473 configured to rotate the impeller 471. The impeller 471 may be located in any of the exhaust passage 490, the connecting passage 450, and the inlet passage 410. FIG. 2 shows a case where the impeller 471 is located in the outlet passage 490 and is located downstream of the second heat exchanger 520.

[173] Briefly, the present disclosure relates to a water supply assembly and a drain assembly necessary for constructing a cleaning system for cleaning a heat exchange assembly 500 and a drying apparatus filter assembly 300 located on a washing machine with water in a clothing treatment apparatus in which the washing machine (the second clothing treating device) and the drying device (the first clothing treating device) are a unitary device and a method for controlling the same.

[174] In particular, the nozzle 650 is used to clean with water the filter assembly 300 and the heat exchanger assembly 500 of the drying apparatus. The water required for cleaning is withdrawn from the first water supply pipe of the washing machine by the first switching valve for supplying water to the nozzle 650. In this case, the water may be supplied directly to the nozzle 650 or may be supplied by the condensed water storage portion 670.

[175] After cleaning is performed with the nozzle 650, waste water including contaminants can be discharged to the outside by opening and closing the drain hole 672 formed in the lower surface of the lower body 671 for collecting water of the drying device, and directing the water into the drain pump 265 located at the bottom of the washing machine.

[176] Below, an example of a control method for controlling the garment treatment apparatus disclosed herein will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 9.

[177] FIG. 5 relates to a method of controlling cleaning of the first heat exchanger 510 and/or filter assembly 300 by replenishing water in the condensed water storage portion 670 from an external water supply and supplying water to the nozzle 650.

[178] In the control method of the present disclosure, the drying operation is started by rotating the first drum 130 (S100). During the drying operation, the rotation speed of the first drum 130 may vary. During the drying operation, the air in the first drum 130 may be circulated only by the rotation of the fan 470. Alternatively, while the fan 470 is rotating, the heat exchange unit 500 may simultaneously operate to dehumidify and heat the circulated air. That is, when the air discharged from the first drum 130 passes through the heat exchange unit, the air is humid. On the other hand, when the air passed through the heat exchange unit 500 is supplied to the first drum 130 through the outlet passage 490, the air is in a relatively high temperature and dry state.

[179] When a predetermined time elapses from the start of the drying operation of the first drum 130, the control method of the present disclosure determines the drying mode of the clothes placed in the first drum 130 (S300).

[180] The degree of dryness is measured by a dryness sensor 691 located inside the first drum 130 (S310). Alternatively, the degree of dryness can be continuously measured from the beginning using the dryness sensor 691.

[181] When the measured dryness degree is greater than or equal to the predetermined reference dryness degree (S330), the control method of the present disclosure can determine that drying has been completed to a certain extent, and thus foreign matter has accumulated on the filter assembly 300 and the first heat exchanger 510 .

[182] Specifically, the filter assembly 300 includes a first filter element 350 located in the connecting channel and detachable through the filter insertion hole 313, and a second filter element 370 located in the inlet channel. Foreign substances are mainly foreign substances accumulated through filtration by the first filter element 350, and foreign substances that may accumulate on the first heat exchange unit 500.

[183] When the dryness degree measured by the dryness sensor 691 is greater than or equal to the predetermined reference dryness degree, the control method of this disclosure determines whether to add water to the condensed water storage portion 670 (S500) by measuring the water level (first level water) stored in the water collecting housing 671 of the condensed water storage portion 670, using the water level sensor 693.

[184] When the first water level is higher than or equal to the first reference water level, the control method of the present disclosure opens the water supply valve 253 and proceeds to the cleaning operation S600 using the nozzle 650 since there is no need to switch the first switching valve 255 to the condensed water storage portion 670 . Thereafter, the cleaning operation described below in FIG. 8 can begin when the water supply valve 253 is opened. This is because the amount of water in the condensed water storage portion 670 is reduced after atomization, and thus it is necessary to maintain the water at the first reference level to ensure stable purification efficiency.

[185] Herein, the first reference water level refers to the water level for maintaining constant treatment efficiency among the water levels stored in the water collection housing 671. That is, it means the water level required to supply a given amount of water by the water supply pump 711. A decrease in the water level when water is supplied by the water supply pump 711 may cause the amount of water supplied to change, which means that the cleaning efficiency is not constant. Thus, the first reference water level may represent an acceptable water level at which the cleaning efficiency can be maintained constant in the water collection housing 671. Alternatively, it may simply mean the highest water level at which water can be stored in the water collection housing 671. When the highest water level at which water can be stored is constantly maintained, the supply of water by the water supply pump 711 will be constant.

[186] Therefore, in the present disclosure, the first reference water level may refer to the full water level reached when the water collection body 671 is filled with water. However, even in this case, the reference water level may be slightly lower than the full water level, taking into account manufacturing error.

[187] To determine whether to add water (S500), the control method of the present disclosure measures the first water level in the water collecting housing 671 using the water level sensor 693 (S510). When the first water level is higher than or equal to the first reference water level (S530), the first heat exchanger 90 and/or filter assembly 300 is immediately cleaned (S600) without any action.

[188] However, when the first water level is lower than the first reference water level (S530), a water replenishment operation is performed since the amount of water supplied from the water supply pump 711 to the nozzle 650 can be changed to affect the cleaning efficiency. That is, the controller opens the water supply valve 253 and supplies water to the condensed water storage portion 670 (S520) by switching the first switching valve 255. In addition, the controller measures the second water level in the condensed water storage portion 670 using the water level sensor 693 (S540), and determines whether the second water level satisfies the first reference water level (S560). When the second water level is lower than the first reference water level, the control method of the present disclosure repeats the operation of re-measuring the second water level and the operation of comparing the measured second water level with the first reference water level.

[189] Thereafter, in the control method of the present disclosure, a cleaning operation S600 of the first heat exchanger 510 and/or filter assembly 300 is performed. This operation is performed to prepare the operation of washing foreign substances accumulated on the filter assembly 300 and the first heat exchanger 510.

[190] That is, in the control method of the present disclosure, it is determined whether the water level in the condensed water storage portion 670 satisfies the first reference water level before performing the purification operation S600. When the first reference water level is not reached, the first switching valve 255 is switched to replenish water from an external supply source.

[191] When the cleaning operation S600 is completed, the control method of the present disclosure proceeds to the draining operation S800 for draining water remaining after use. When water is sprayed through the nozzle 650 to remove foreign matter from the filter assembly 300 and the first heat exchanger 510, water condensed by the first heat exchanger 510, water sprayed through the nozzle 650, or water replenished from an external water supply can be mixed in the housing 671 to collecting water.

[192] Accordingly, foreign substances are mixed with water in the water collection body 671, and uncontrolled release of foreign substances may cause contamination and a hygiene problem. Therefore, the water remaining after cleaning must be completely released to the outside.

[193] First, the controller closes the water supply valve 253 and opens the drain valve 681 (S810) and drains the residual water through the drain hole 672 in the bottom surface of the water collecting body 671 (S830). The discharged water is discharged into the drain pump 265 or the first drain pipe 261 of the second clothing treatment apparatus through the third drain pipe 263, and finally discharged to the outside by the drain pump 265 through the second drain pipe.

[194] While the residual water from the water collection housing 671 is discharged, the controller measures the third water level in the condensed water storage portion 670 using a water level sensor 693 (S850). This is to ensure that any residual water is completely drained.

[195] Thereafter, in the control method of the present disclosure, the measured third water level is compared with the second reference water level (S870). When the third water level is higher than the second reference water level, residual water is present, and accordingly, measurement of the third water level (S850) and comparison with the second reference water level (S870) are repeated until the residual water is completely drained.

[196] When the third water level is lower than or equal to the second reference water level, it is determined that the residual water has been completely discharged from the water collection body 671, and thus the drain valve 681 is closed (S890) in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. .

[197] Herein, the second reference water level refers to a predetermined water level forming the basis for determining that the water stored in the condensed water storage portion 670 has been completely drained.

[198] FIG. 6 shows an example of a control method associated with draining water from the condensed water storage portion 670, which can be carried out in parallel with the control method of the present disclosure.

[199] The capacity of the condensed water storage portion 670, that is, the capacity of the water collection body 671, is less than the amount of water used in the purification operation S600. This is intended to provide a compact structure for the interior of the second garment treatment apparatus 100 . In case the amount of water condensed during the drying operation exceeds the capacity of the condensed water storage portion 670, water from the water collecting body 671 may flow back into the connecting channel 450 when the water level in the water collecting body 671 exceeds the first reference level. water. In addition, when the drain is blocked or the water pressure is high, and thus the amount of water supplied is greater than the amount of water drained during cleaning of the filter assembly and/or the first heat exchanger with the nozzle 650, the water level in the condensed storage portion 670 water may rise, causing backflow.

[200] To prevent this problem, the water level must be checked during drying operation S100, water replenishment S500, or cleaning operation S600, and draining S200 must be performed when the measured water level is above the first reference water level. For this purpose, the operations from the drying operation S100 to the operation before the draining operation S800 can be continuously performed in parallel.

[201] First, when the drying operation starts, the water level (fourth water level) in the condensed water storage portion can be measured by the water level sensor 693 (S210) in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. When the fourth water level is below the first reference water level, no drainage is required and thus the fourth water level is remeasured.

[202] When the fourth water level is higher than or equal to the first reference water level, drainage is required, and thus the residual water is drained through the drain hole 672 in the bottom surface of the water collection body 671 (S230) by opening the drain valve 681 (S230) at in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. The drained water is discharged into the drain pump 265 or the first drain pipe 261 of the second clothing treatment device through the third drain pipe 263, and finally discharged to the outside by the drain pump 265 through the second drain pipe 262.

[203] While the residual water in the water collecting housing 671 is drained, the fifth water level in the condensed water storage portion 670 is measured by the water level sensor 693 in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. This is to ensure that any residual water is completely drained. Thereafter, the measured fifth water level is compared with the second reference water level (S270) in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. When the fifth water level is higher than the second reference water level, residual water is present, and accordingly, measurement of the fifth water level (S250) and comparison with the second reference water level (S270) is repeated until the residual water is completely drained.

[204] When the fifth water level is lower than or equal to the second reference water level (S270), it is determined that the residual water has been completely drained from the water collecting body 671, and thus the drain valve 681 is closed (S290) in accordance with the control method of this disclosure.

[205] Fig. 7 shows an example of the control method of the present disclosure to which is added the operation of calculating the amount of condensed water generated and replenishing the required amount (S10) using the condensed water storage portion connected to an external water supply source.

[206] When the user selects the drying operation, the amount of condensed water generated can be calculated by rotating the first drum 130 to start the drying operation S100 in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure (S11). When it is determined by the dryness sensor 691 that the reference dryness degree has been reached, the water level in the condensed water storage portion 670 is measured by the water level sensor 693 . Then, when the water needs to be replenished to the first reference water level, a corresponding time delay may occur.

[207] Accordingly, when the amount of water required for the condensed water storage portion 670 is pre-replenished, the cleaning operation can be immediately performed as soon as the reference dryness degree is reached.

[208] To this end, in the control method of the present disclosure, when the drying operation starts, the amount of laundry is determined to calculate the amount of condensed water generated (S11). The clothing processing apparatus 100 may further include a laundry amount sensor configured to detect an amount of clothing stored in the first drum body 131. The laundry quantity sensor may be configured as a means for transmitting an amount of electric current supplied to the first motor 141 of the first drive unit to rotate the first drum housing 131 at a predetermined rotation speed, or as a means for transmitting to a rotation speed controller of the first drum housing 131, obtained when a current of a given magnitude is applied for a given time. When the laundry amount sensor is installed, the controller can calculate the amount of condensed water generated from the clothes placed in the first drum by measuring the amount of laundry.

[209] When the amount of condensed water generated is calculated by the laundry amount sensor, the calculated water level in the condensed water housing 671 is compared with the first reference water level (S13) in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. When the calculated water level is higher than or equal to the first reference water level, the drying operation is performed without replenishing water.

[210] When the calculated water level is lower than the first reference water level, water needs to be replenished, and accordingly, the water supply valve 253 is opened (S12) during the drying operation according to the control method of the present disclosure to replenish the required water. The amount of water required corresponds to the water level obtained by subtracting the calculated water level from the first reference water level. Therefore, when the water level corresponding to the amount corresponding to the water level obtained by subtracting the estimated water level from the first reference water level is the outstanding water level, the control method of the present disclosure can measure the water level (sixth water level) in the condensed water storage portion 670 using the water level sensor 693 (S14) and compare it with the outstanding water level (S13) to determine whether to stop the water supply. That is, when the water is replenished due to the unfulfilled water level, the water supply valve can be closed (S17). Subsequent operations are the same as those in the control method described with reference to FIG. 5.

[211] FIG. 8 relates to a control method for cleaning the filter assembly 300 and/or the first heat exchanger 510 using the nozzle 650 in the cleaning operation S800. Specifically, the nozzle 650 may include one injection nozzle 651 and one injection port 653, and thus, water may be supplied directly to one injection port 653 via the water supply pump connecting pipe 713, the water supply pump 711, and the part water supply pipe 715. for storage. In general, however, a plurality of injection nozzles and injection pipes can be installed. That is, the nozzle may include a plurality of injection nozzles 651 and an equal number of corresponding injection pipes 653, and a second switching valve 655. Each of the injection nozzles 651 may be connected in series in accordance with switching the second switching valve to spray water. This is because the installation area inside the first garment treatment apparatus 100 is small, and thus the performance of the water supply pump 711 may be limited.

[212] When the storage portion water supply pipe 715 is connected in series with one of the injection nozzles via the second switching valve 655, each of the injection nozzles may spray water to a different portion of the filter assembly 300 and/or the first heat exchanger 510. In general, the injection nozzles may be located next to each other on the connecting channel in the transverse direction to spray water on different areas. Alternatively, the injection nozzles can be arranged longitudinally or in a V-shape to spray water into different areas. FIG. 8 shows an example of a control method in a case where three injection nozzles are arranged next to each other in the transverse direction for spraying water.

[213] First, before cleaning is performed, the water supply valve 253 (S605) is opened. When the first water level is higher than or equal to the first reference water level, the water supply valve 253, which has never been opened, opens to provide continuous replenishment of water as much as the water is sprayed and released forward. When the water is replenished because the first water level is lower than the first reference water level in the previous operation, the water supply valve 253 should not be opened again since the water supply valve 253 was opened to replenish the water.

[214] First, in the control method of the present disclosure, the second switching valve 655 is switched to connect to the first injection nozzle 6511 via the first injection port 653. Accordingly, the first injection nozzle 6511 is opened to perform the first cleaning operation S611. The first cleaning operation S611 continues for a predetermined first time (S613).

[215] When the first time has not elapsed, the seventh water level is measured by the water level sensor 693 (S614) in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. This operation is designed to prevent backflow from occurring due to rising water levels when the water supply rate is greater than the water spray rate due to high water pressure, or when the drainage is not continuous due to a clogged drain assembly. When the seventh water level is higher than or equal to the predetermined third reference water level (S615), the first injection nozzle 6511 and the water supply valve 253 are closed by switching the second switching valve 655 (S616) in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. When the predetermined second time elapses after the water supply valve 253 is closed, the water supply valve 253 is opened (S612). Thereafter, the control method of the present disclosure again shifts from the first clearing S611.

[216] The first time can be set to 10 seconds, and the second time can be set to 5 seconds.

[217] The third reference water level may be a level set to prevent backflow and may be the same as the first reference water level. Alternatively, it can be installed differently.

[218] When the first injection operation S610 is completed, the control method of the present disclosure sequentially proceeds to the second injection operation S630 and the third injection operation S650. In addition, when it is determined that the level of contamination is high in a particular area of the first heat exchange assembly 500 or filter assembly 300, only the area with a high level of contamination can be cleaned by spraying water. In this case, after determining the area with a high pollution level using the pollution level sensor, the control method of the present disclosure may select and proceed to one of the first injection operation S610, the second injection operation S630, and the third operation S650.

[219] According to the control method of the present disclosure, when the first injection operation S610 is completed, the second switching valve 655 is switched to connect the second injection nozzle 6512 with the second injection port 653. Accordingly, the second injection nozzle 6512 opens, and the first injection nozzle 6511, opened in the first injection operation S610 is closed.

[220] As a result, in the control method of the present disclosure, when the second injection nozzle 6512 is opened, a second cleaning operation S631 is performed. The second cleaning operation S631 continues for a predetermined third time (S633).

[221] When the third time has not elapsed, the eighth water level is measured using the water level sensor 693 (S634) in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. This operation is to prevent backflow from occurring in the water collection body 671 due to rising water level when the water supply speed exceeds the water spray speed according to high water pressure, or when the drainage is not continuous due to clogging of the drain assembly 260. When the eighth water level above or equal to the predetermined fourth reference water level (S635), the second injection nozzle 6512 and the water supply valve 253 are closed by switching the second switch valve 655 (S636) in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. When the predetermined fourth time has elapsed after the water supply valve 253 is closed, the water supply valve 253 is opened (S632). Thereafter, the control method of the present disclosure again shifts from the second cleaning S631.

[222] The third time can be set to 10 seconds, and the fourth time can be set to 5 seconds. The fourth reference water level may be a level set to prevent backflow and may be the same as the first reference water level. Alternatively, it can be installed differently.

[223] When the second injection operation S630 is completed, the control method of the present disclosure may proceed to the third injection operation S650. That is, according to the control method of the present disclosure, the second switching valve 655 is switched to connect with the third injection nozzle 6513 via the third injection port 653. Accordingly, the third injection nozzle 6513 is opened, and the second injection nozzle 6512 is opened during the second operation S610 injection closes.

[224] As a result, in the control method of the present disclosure, when the third spray nozzle 6513 is opened, a third cleaning operation S651 is performed. The third cleaning operation S651 continues for a predetermined fifth time (S653).

[225] When the fifth time has not expired, the ninth water level is measured by the water level sensor 693 (S654) in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. This operation is to prevent backflow from occurring in the water collection body 671 due to rising water level when the water supply speed exceeds the water spray speed according to high water pressure, or when the drainage is not continuous due to clogging of the drain assembly 260. When the ninth water level above or equal to the predetermined fifth reference water level (S655), the third injection nozzle 6513 and the water supply valve 253 are closed by switching the second switching valve 655 (S656) in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. According to the control method of the present disclosure, when the predetermined sixth time elapses after the water supply valve 253 is closed, the water supply valve 253 is opened (S652) to move again from the third cleaning S651.

[226] The fifth time can be set to 10 seconds, and the sixth time can be set to 5 seconds. The fifth reference water level may be a level set to prevent backflow and may be the same as the first reference water level. Alternatively, it can be installed differently.

[227] FIG. 9 shows an example of the control method of the present disclosure when the injection nozzle is directly connected to an external water supply source.

[228] First, the drying operation begins by rotating the first drum 130 (S1000). Thereafter, according to the control method of the present disclosure, it is determined whether the dryness degree measured by the dryness sensor 691 is greater than or equal to the predetermined reference dryness degree (S3000). According to the control method of the present disclosure, when a predetermined time elapses after the start of the drying operation of the first drum 130, the drying mode of the clothes placed in the first drum 130 can be determined (S300). Alternatively, the control method of the present disclosure may continuously measure the degree of dryness using the dryness sensor 691 from the very beginning.

[229] Unlike the example in FIG. 5, the nozzle 650 can be directly connected to an external water supply without using the condensed water storage portion 670. Accordingly, the operation of determining whether to replenish water at the reference dryness degree or above is omitted. That is, in the control method of the present disclosure, when the measured dryness degree is greater than or equal to the predetermined reference dryness degree, the water supply valve can be opened to directly supply water to the nozzle 650. The control method of the present disclosure proceeds to the cleaning step S6000 by the control method as shown in Fig.8. Of course, this is just an example and cleaning may be done differently.

[230] When the cleaning operation S6000 is completed, the control method of the present disclosure proceeds to the draining operation S8000 for draining water remaining after use. When water is sprayed by the nozzle 650 to remove foreign matter from the filter assembly 300 and the first heat exchanger 510, water condensed by the first heat exchanger 510, water sprayed by the nozzle 650, or water replenished by an external water supply can be mixed in the housing 671 for collecting water.

[231] Accordingly, foreign substances are mixed with water in the water collection body 671, and uncontrolled release of foreign substances may cause contamination and a hygiene problem. Therefore, the water remaining after cleaning must be completely drained to the outside.

[232] First, the controller closes the water supply valve 253 and opens the drain valve 681 (S8100) and drains the residual water through the drain hole 672 in the bottom surface of the water collection housing 671 (S8300). The drained water is discharged into the drain pump 265 or the first drain pipe 261 of the second clothing treatment apparatus through the third drain pipe 263, and finally discharged to the outside by the drain pump 265 through the second drain pipe.

[233] While the residual water in the water collection housing 671 is drained, the water level in the condensed water storage portion 670 is measured by a water level sensor 693 (S8500) in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure. This is to ensure that any residual water is completely drained.

[234] Thereafter, in the control method of the present disclosure, the measured water level is compared with the drain reference drain water level (S8700). When the measured water level is higher than the drainage reference water level, there is residual water, and accordingly the water level measurement (S8500) and comparison with the drainage reference water level (S870) are repeated until the residual water is completely drained.

[235] When the measured level is lower than or equal to the drain reference water level, it is determined that the residual water has been completely discharged from the water collection body 671, and thus the drain valve 681 is closed in accordance with the control method of the present disclosure.

[236] Herein, the drainage water reference level refers to a predetermined water level forming the basis for determining that the water stored in the condensed water storage portion 670 has been completely released.

[237] The present disclosure may be modified and embodied in various forms, but the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Therefore, a modified embodiment incorporating the claims elements of the present disclosure should be considered within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims (99)

1. A device for processing clothing, containing: a first casing forming the exterior; a first drum having a cylindrical shape and rotatably positioned in the first casing for housing clothing; a circulation channel configured to circulate air from the first drum; a heat exchange unit located inside the circulation channel, the heat exchange unit comprising a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the circulating air; a filter assembly located inside the circulation channel to separate foreign substances from the circulating air before heat exchange; a condensed water storage portion configured to store condensed water generated by heat exchange with the first heat exchanger; a water supply unit connected to an external water supply source for supplying water to the condensed water storage portion; a nozzle configured to spray water from the condensed water storage portion onto the first heat exchanger or filter assembly; And a drain assembly configured to discharge water from the tank or part for storing condensed water to the outside, wherein the water supply unit is located separately at a distance from the nozzle. 2. Device for processing clothes according to claim 1, wherein the device for processing clothing additionally contains: a second casing located below the first casing; a tank located inside the second casing for storing water; a second drum rotatably positioned within the tub to accommodate clothing; wherein the first casing and the second casing are made as one unit. 3. A device for processing clothing according to claim 1, additionally containing: dryness sensor located in the first drum to measure the degree of dryness of clothes. 4. The clothing treatment device according to claim 3, wherein the condensed water storage portion contains: a water level sensor configured to measure the level of water stored in the condensed water storage portion. 5. Device for processing clothes according to claim 4, wherein the device for processing clothing additionally contains: a second casing located below the first casing; a tank located inside the second casing for storing water; a second drum rotatably positioned within the tub to accommodate clothing; wherein the water supply unit contains: a first water supply pipe connected to an external water supply source; a water supply valve configured to open and close the first water supply pipe; a first switching valve configured to select one of the tank and the condensed water storage portion and supply water passed through the water supply valve thereto; And a second water supply pipe connecting the first switching valve and the condensed water storage portion. 6. A device for treating clothes according to claim 1, in which the nozzle contains: one or more injection nozzles configured to spray water onto the first heat exchanger or filter assembly; a second switching valve configured to selectively supply water to the one or more injection nozzles; one or more injection ports connecting the second switching valve and the one or more injection nozzles, the number of the one or more injections being equal to the number of the one or more injection nozzles; And a water supply pipe of the storage portion configured to supply water stored in the condensed water storage portion to the second switching valve. 7. A device for processing clothing according to claim 6, in which the circulation channel contains: an inlet port configured to suck air from the first drum; an outlet channel configured to release air passing through the heat exchange unit; And a connecting channel connecting the inlet channel and the outlet channel and having a heat exchange unit located therein. 8. The clothing treatment apparatus according to claim 7, wherein one or more spray nozzles are fixed to the top plate forming a flow circulation path of the connecting channel and spray water onto different portions of the first heat exchanger or filter assembly. 9. The garment treatment apparatus according to claim 8, wherein one or more injection nozzles are arranged adjacent to each other on the top plate in a transverse direction of the first casing, wherein one or more injection nozzles are connected in series to a water supply pipe of the storage portion by a second switching valve to spray water onto the first heat exchanger or filter assembly. 10. Device for processing clothes according to claim 1, wherein the device for processing clothing further comprises: a second casing located below the first casing; a tank located inside the second casing for storing water; a second drum rotatably positioned within the tub to accommodate clothing; wherein the drain assembly contains: a drain pump configured to release water from the tank to the outside; the first drain pipe connecting the tank and the drain pump; And a second drain pipe configured to drain water from the drain pump to the outside. 11. A device for processing clothes according to claim 10, in which the drainage unit additionally contains: a third drain pipe connecting the condensed water storage portion and the first drain pipe or drain pump; And a drain valve configured to open and close the third drain pipe. 12. A device for processing clothing, containing: a first casing forming the exterior; a first drum having a cylindrical shape and rotatably positioned in the first casing for housing clothing; a circulation channel configured to circulate air from the first drum; a heat exchange unit located inside the circulation channel, the heat exchange unit comprising a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the circulating air; a filter assembly located inside the circulation channel to separate foreign substances from the circulating air before heat exchange; a second casing located below the first casing; a tank located inside the second casing for storing water; a second drum rotatably positioned within the tub to accommodate clothing; a nozzle configured to spray water onto the first heat exchanger or filter assembly; a water supply unit connected to an external water supply source for supplying water to at least one of the tank and the nozzle; a condensed water storage portion configured to store condensed water generated by heat exchange with the first heat exchanger and water sprayed by the nozzle; And a drain assembly configured to discharge water from the tank and a part for storing condensed water to the outside, wherein the condensed water storage portion is configured to communicate with the drain unit for discharging the stored condensed water into the drain unit. 13. The clothing treatment device according to claim 12, wherein the water supply unit is configured to supply water by dividing the water into a tank or nozzle, wherein the water supply unit comprises: a branch pipe configured to branch an external water supply to the tank or nozzle; And water supply pipe of the nozzle connecting the branch pipe and the nozzle. 14. A device for treating clothes according to claim 13, in which the nozzle contains: one or more injection nozzles configured to spray water onto the first heat exchanger or filter assembly; And a switching valve configured to selectively supply water to one or more injection nozzles, wherein the water supply pipe of the nozzle is connected to the switching valve. 15. A device for processing clothing according to claim 1, the filter assembly contains a first filter element located in the connecting channel, wherein the first filter element contains: a first filter configured to filter fluid moving into the first heat exchanger; And a second filter element mounted on the first filter element for filtering fluid moving into the condensed water storage portion. 16. The clothing treatment apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the nozzle sprays water onto the first heat exchanger or the first filter. 17. A method for controlling a clothing treatment apparatus, including: a first casing forming an exterior, a first drum having a cylindrical shape and rotatably positioned in the first casing for housing clothing; a circulation channel configured to circulate air from the first drum, a heat exchange unit located inside the circulation channel, the heat exchange unit comprising a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the circulating air, a filter unit located inside the circulation channel to separate foreign substances from the circulating air before the heat exchange, a condensed water storage part configured to store condensed water generated by heat exchange with the first heat exchanger or supplied or sprayed water, a water supply unit connected to an external water supply source for supplying water to the tank or part for storing condensed water, a nozzle configured to spray water from the condensed water storage portion onto the first heat exchanger or filter assembly, a dryness sensor located in the first drum for measuring the degree of dryness of clothing, and a water level sensor configured to measure the water level in parts for storing condensed water, with the water supply unit located separately at a distance from the nozzle, wherein the method includes the steps of: starting the drying operation by rotating the first drum; comparing the dryness degree measured by the dryness sensor with a predetermined reference dryness degree and measuring a first water level using the water level sensor when the measured dryness degree is greater than or equal to the reference dryness degree; based on the first water level being lower than the predetermined first reference water level, supplying water to the condensed water storage portion by opening the water supply valve until the second water level measured by the water level sensor is higher than or equal to the predetermined first reference level water; And clean the first heat exchanger or filter assembly using a nozzle. 18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising the step of: After cleaning the first heat exchanger or filter using the nozzle, close the water supply valve and drain the residual water from the condensed water storage part using the drain assembly. 19. The method according to claim 17, further comprising the steps of: calculating the amount of condensed water generated by determining the amount of clothes to be washed placed in the first drum using a laundry quantity sensor configured to measure the amount of clothes to be washed, the calculation being performed before starting the drying operation by rotating the first drum; supplying the missing amount of water to the condensed water storage part by opening the water supply valve. 20. A method for controlling a garment treatment apparatus including a first casing forming an exterior, a first drum having a cylindrical shape and rotatably disposed in the first casing for housing clothing, a circulation passage configured to circulate air from the first drum, a heat exchange unit located inside the circulation channel, wherein the heat exchange unit contains a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger configured to perform heat exchange with circulating air, a second casing located under the first casing, a tank located inside the second casing for storing water, a second drum located with rotatable inside the tank for storing clothes, a nozzle configured to spray water onto the first heat exchanger, a water supply pipe connected to an external water source for supplying water to the nozzle, a water supply valve configured to open and close the water supply pipe, a condensed storage part water configured to store condensed water generated by heat exchange with the first heat exchanger, water supplied through a water supply pipe, or water sprayed onto the first heat exchanger using a nozzle, a dryness sensor located in the first drum for measuring the degree of dryness of clothes, and a sensor water level, configured to measure the water level in the condensed water storage part, a drain unit configured to discharge water from the tank and condensed water storage part to the outside, wherein the condensed water storage portion is configured to communicate with the drain unit for discharging the stored condensed water into the drain unit, wherein the method includes the steps of: starting the drying operation by rotating the first drum; based on a dryness degree measured by the dryness sensor being greater than or equal to a predetermined reference dryness degree, measuring a first water level using the water level sensor; based on the measured dryness degree being greater than or equal to a predetermined reference dryness degree, supplying water to the nozzle by opening the water supply valve; And clean the first heat exchanger or filter assembly using a nozzle.