KR102804125B1 - Laundry treatment apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A clothing treatment device capable of drying clothing or bedding accommodated therein as well as having a drying function for an external space is provided. The clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a drum installed in a cabinet, the front surface of which faces an inlet of the cabinet; a suction duct disposed at a lower portion of the front surface of the drum and into which air is introduced; a circulation path connected to the suction duct and guiding the flow of air; an inlet duct connecting the circulation path and the drum to reintroduce air into the drum; a circulation fan forming a flow of air between the suction duct and the inlet duct; a heat exchange unit installed on the circulation path and exchanging heat with air; a dehumidifying kit installed on the inlet and separating the movement paths of air discharged from the drum through the inlet and air introduced into the suction duct through the inlet; and a control unit controlling the operation of the drum and the circulation fan depending on whether the dehumidifying kit is installed.

Description

{LAUNDRY TREATMENT APPARATUS}

The present invention relates to a clothing treatment device, and more specifically, to a clothing treatment device capable of drying clothing or bedding accommodated therein as well as having a drying function for an external space.

A garment handling device refers to any device that manages or processes clothing, such as washing, drying, or removing wrinkles from clothing or bedding, in a home or at a laundromat. A garment handling device includes a washing machine, a dryer, or a washer-dryer combination.

Among these, dryers in particular supply hot air to objects to be treated, such as clothing or bedding, placed in a drum (or tub) to evaporate the moisture contained in the objects to be treated.

The moisture of the object to be treated is evaporated in the drum, and the air leaving the drum contains the moisture of the object to be treated, becoming hot and humid. This hot and humid air is heated and has its moisture removed through a circulation path provided in the dryer, and then is reintroduced into the drum.

In relation to a clothing treatment device having a function of drying clothing or bedding as described above, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2019-0128464 (hereinafter referred to as “prior document”) discloses a clothing treatment device.

Specifically, the present invention discloses a drum for accommodating clothing, a circulation path forming a path for allowing air discharged from a front opening of the drum to enter a rear opening of the drum through heat exchange, and a base cabinet arranged at the bottom of the drum to provide a space in which various parts are mounted.

However, the garment treatment device of the prior document discloses a configuration for drying garments or bedding contained in a drum, but there is a problem in that the drying function for the external space in which the garment treatment device is installed is not specifically considered.

In particular, since the multifunctionality of conveniently creating a comfortable space by removing moisture in the space where the clothing treatment device is installed through the clothing treatment device without a separate device is emerging, an additional configuration for drying the external space in the clothing treatment device is inevitably required.

As described above, a clothing treatment device that dries clothing or bedding accommodated inside has the task of properly implementing a drying function for external spaces as well, but conventional clothing treatment devices have the limitation of not being able to properly solve this task.

The present invention aims to solve the above problems of a clothing treatment device.

Specifically, the present invention aims to provide a clothing treatment device that dries clothing or bedding accommodated therein and, if necessary, can also implement a dehumidifying function for an external space.

In addition, the present invention aims to enable a more efficient dehumidification function when dehumidifying an external space using a clothing treatment device.

In addition, the present invention aims to easily determine whether dehumidification of an external space is necessary so that a clothing treatment device can always operate under optimal control.

The technical problems to be achieved in the present invention are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

In order to achieve the above or other purposes, a clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention is configured so that a dehumidifying function for an external space can be implemented by installing a dehumidifying kit as needed. Specifically, the dehumidifying kit installed on the inlet is configured so that air from an external space is introduced into a circulation path, dehumidified, and then discharged back into the external space.

In addition, the clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention is configured to optimize the movement path of air when dehumidifying an external space, thereby improving the dehumidification efficiency. Specifically, the movement paths of air discharged from the drum through the inlet by the dehumidification kit and air introduced into the suction duct through the inlet are configured to be separated.

In addition, the clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention is configured to determine when dehumidification of an external space is necessary and to perform optimal control accordingly. Specifically, the control unit is configured to control the operation of the drum and the circulation fan by reflecting whether a dehumidification kit is installed.

In addition, a clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention can determine whether a dehumidifying kit is installed through a change in resistance value depending on whether a contact terminal formed on a dehumidifying kit is in contact with an electrode sensor installed in a cabinet.

In addition, the garment treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention can have a control unit stop the operation of the drum when a dehumidifying kit is installed.

In addition, the clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention can lower the load of the circulation fan when a dehumidification kit is installed.

In addition, the clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention can have the control unit unlock the door when a dehumidifying kit is installed.

In addition, in a clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention, a dehumidifying kit can be detachably installed on the upper surface of a filter section installed between an inlet and a suction duct.

In addition, a clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention may include a dehumidifying kit including a first body part and a second body part.

In addition, the clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention can hold the door in an open state through the holder part of the dehumidifying kit.

In addition, the clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention can have a holder and a door attached through magnetic force.

In addition, the clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention may enable the contact terminals of the dehumidifying kit to be electrically connected to a plurality of points of the cabinet.

In addition, the clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention may have a contact terminal of the dehumidifying kit that can be elastically deformed.

In addition, a clothing treatment device according to one aspect of the present invention may be formed in a shape in which the central portion of the contact terminal protrudes while both ends of the contact terminal are fixed.

The means for solving the technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the means for solving the problems mentioned above, and other means for solving the problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

The effects of the clothing treatment device according to the present invention are as follows.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, air from an external space is introduced into a circulation path through a dehumidifying kit installed on an inlet, dehumidified, and then discharged back into the external space, so that a dehumidifying function for an external space where a clothing treatment device is installed can be implemented as needed.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, since the movement paths of air discharged from the drum through the inlet and air introduced into the suction duct through the inlet are separated by the dehumidification kit, the air before and after dehumidification does not mix with each other, so that the dehumidification efficiency for the external space can be improved.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, since the control unit controls the operation of the drum and the circulation fan by reflecting whether or not the dehumidifying kit is installed, the clothes treatment device can always be operated with optimal control.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, since it is determined whether the dehumidification kit is installed through a change in resistance value depending on whether the contact terminal formed on the dehumidification kit is in contact with the electrode sensor installed in the cabinet, it is possible to more easily determine whether the dehumidification kit is installed.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, when a dehumidification kit is installed, the control unit stops the operation of the drum, so that unnecessary operation of the drum can be prevented when dehumidifying an external space.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, when a dehumidification kit is installed, the control unit lowers the load of the circulation fan, so that noise caused by the operation of the circulation fan when dehumidifying an external space can be minimized.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, when a dehumidification kit is installed, the control unit unlocks the door, so that the door can be kept open when dehumidifying an external space.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a dehumidifying kit is detachably installed on the upper surface of a filter section installed between an inlet and a suction duct, so that the dehumidifying kit can be installed and used more easily and conveniently as needed.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, since the dehumidifying kit comprises a first body part and a second body part, it is possible to smoothly move the air introduced from the rear side of the inlet to the suction duct after introducing external air from the front side of the inlet.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, since the door is held in an open state through the holder part of the dehumidification kit, the door is stably supported when dehumidifying an external space, so that a smooth dehumidification function can be implemented.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, since the holder and the door are attached through magnetic force, attachment and detachment of the holder and the door can be made more easily.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, since the contact terminal of the dehumidifying kit can be electrically connected to a plurality of points of the cabinet, contact can be made through the contact terminal even if the installation position of the dehumidifying kit is misaligned to a certain extent.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, since the contact terminal of the dehumidifying kit is elastically deformable, contact can be made smoothly through the contact terminal while minimizing damage and breakage of the contact terminal when attaching or detaching the dehumidifying kit.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, since the central portion of the contact terminal is formed in a shape in which both ends of the contact terminal are fixed and the central portion thereof protrudes, deformation or damage of the contact terminal can be minimized even when used for a long period of time.

Further scope of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description below. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of the present invention, are given by way of example only.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a drawing showing the main configuration of a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 3 and 4 are schematic drawings showing the circulation of air in a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a drawing showing in more detail an air circulation unit and a heat exchange unit in a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a drawing schematically showing the refrigerant circulation of a heat exchange unit in a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a drawing exemplarily showing a state in which dehumidification of an external space is performed in a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view showing in more detail the portion where the dehumidification kit is installed in Figure 7.
Figure 9 is a drawing schematically showing the circulation of air in Figure 7.
Figures 10 to 12 are drawings showing the dehumidification kit in Figure 7 in more detail.
Fig. 13 is a drawing exemplarily showing the holding state of the door in Fig. 7.
Figures 14 and 15 are drawings showing in more detail the portion where the dehumidifying kit and the filter unit are combined in Figure 7.
Figures 16 and 17 are drawings showing the contact terminals of the dehumidifying kit and the electrode sensors of the cabinet in Figure 7.
FIG. 18 is a drawing exemplarily showing the test results for implantation in a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 19 is a flowchart showing a control method according to whether or not a garment is implanted in a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, in describing the present invention, descriptions of functions or configurations already known will be omitted in order to clarify the gist of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing the main configuration of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 3 and 4 are drawings schematically showing the circulation of air in a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, a dryer is used as an example of a clothing treatment device, but it is stated that a clothing treatment device is a device that processes laundry (or dry items) such as clothing placed in a drum, and is not limited to a dryer, but may also be a washing machine or a washing machine with a dryer.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet (10), a drum (30) that is placed inside the cabinet (10) and rotates while containing laundry (fabric) therein, a driving unit (106) that rotates the drum (30), a heat exchange unit (200) that heats air circulated in the drum (30) to dry laundry and heats the circulated air, a circulation fan (110) that circulates air in the drum (30), a suction duct (120) through which air circulated from the drum (30) is sucked in, and a circulation path (130) that guides the flow of air.

The cabinet (10) forms the exterior of the garment treatment device (1000) and provides a space in which the drum (30) and other components are placed. The cabinet (10) may be formed in an overall rectangular solid shape.

A cabinet (10) has a door (20) arranged on the front, and the door (20) rotates on a hinge around one end to open and close the interior of the cabinet (10). The cabinet (10) may include a front cover (11), a top plate (16), side covers (12, 13), a rear cover (15), and a base (14).

The front cover (11) is formed with an inlet (18) and is provided with a door (20) for opening and closing the inlet (18). The inlet (18) can be communicated with a drum (30).

A control panel (17) may be placed on the upper part of the front cover (11). The control panel (17) may include a display (e.g., LCD, LED panel, etc.) that displays the operating status of the garment treatment device (1000), an input unit (800) (e.g., button, dial, touch screen, etc.) that receives an operating command for the garment treatment device (1000) from a user, and an output unit (175) that outputs voice guidance, sound effects, or warning sounds for the operating status.

The input unit (800) includes at least one input means, such as a button, switch, or touchpad, installed on the control panel (17). The input unit (800) inputs operation settings, including power input, operation mode, and laundry type settings. When the laundry type is selected and the power key is input, the input unit (800) inputs data on the operation settings to the control unit (600).

The output unit (175) includes a display that displays information on the operating settings input by the input unit (800) and outputs the operating status of the garment treatment device (1000), and includes a speaker or buzzer that outputs voice guidance, a predetermined sound effect, or a warning sound. The display may include a menu screen for operating settings and operation control of the garment treatment device (1000), and may output a guidance message or warning composed of at least one combination of letters, numbers, and images for the operating settings or operating status.

The memory (104) stores control data for controlling the operation of the garment treatment device (1000), input operation setting data, data on the operation mode, and reference data for determining errors in the garment treatment device (1000). In addition, the memory (104) stores data detected or measured during the operation of the garment treatment device (1000), and data transmitted and received through the communication unit (190). The memory (104) may be a storage device such as a ROM, a RAM, an EPROM, a flash drive, a hard drive, etc. in terms of hardware.

The communication unit (190) transmits and receives data wired or wirelessly. The communication unit (190) can be connected to a network formed within a building or a certain distance, such as a home network, to transmit and receive data, and can also be connected to an external server such as the Internet and communicate with a terminal equipped with a control function.

The communication unit (190) transmits the operating status or drying progress status of the clothing treatment device (1000) and receives commands for the clothing treatment device (1000). The communication unit (190) includes communication modules such as Wi-Fi and WiBro as well as short-range wireless communication such as Zigbee and Bluetooth to transmit and receive data.

The power supply unit (105) converts the supplied commercial power and supplies operating power. The power supply unit (105) blocks overcurrent, rectifies and smoothes the supplied power, and supplies operating power of a predetermined size.

The drum (30) is formed in a cylindrical shape, and the front and back are open, and the front is connected to the inlet (18). In addition, an inlet is formed on the back of the drum (30) so that air can be introduced, and the inlet is connected to an inlet duct (140) for air circulation. In addition, this inlet duct (140) is connected to a circulation path (130).

The driving unit (106) includes a motor fixed to the base (14) of the cabinet (10). The motor provides power to rotate the drum (30) and is also connected to the circulation fan (110) to rotate the circulation fan (110). By the rotation of the circulation fan (110), air inside the drum (30) can be introduced into the suction duct (120). In addition, the suction duct (120) is connected to the circulation path (130).

When the circulation fan (110) rotates, the air discharged from the drum (30) is guided to the intake duct (120), passes through the heat exchanger via the circulation path (130), and is then re-introduced into the drum (30) via the inlet duct (140), thereby circulating the air.

The circulation path (130) passing through the drum (30) can be formed in various ways. The circulation path (130) can be connected to the drum (30) to form a closed loop for air circulation. In this case, some of the air can be configured to be discharged to the outside through the exhaust duct (150) as needed.

FIG. 5 is a drawing showing an air circulation section and a heat exchange section in more detail in a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a drawing schematically showing refrigerant circulation in a heat exchange section in a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

The air circulation unit (100) is a unit that guides air discharged from the drum (30) and reintroduces it into the drum (30), and includes the above-described suction duct (120), circulation path (130), inflow duct (140), and circulation fan (110).

The heat exchange unit (200) is installed on the circulation path (130) of the air circulation unit (100) and exchanges heat with the air, and operates as a heat pump cycle by circulating the refrigerant.

Laundry accommodated inside the drum (30) is dried by heated air supplied to the drum (30). Air discharged from the drum (30) absorbs moisture evaporated from the laundry during the drying process, flows into the circulation path (130), is heated through the heat exchanger (200), and is then supplied back to the drum (30).

Specifically, the heat exchange unit (200) includes a compressor (230), an evaporator (210), a condenser (220), and an expansion valve (240). The heat exchange unit (200) is connected to the compressor (230), the evaporator (210), and the condenser (220) by a refrigerant pipe so that the refrigerant circulates. In particular, the air heated through heat exchange between the refrigerant and air in the condenser (220) and the evaporator (210) is supplied to the drum (30). In this case, the heat exchange unit (200) may exchange heat through a medium other than the refrigerant, if necessary.

The evaporator (210) recovers the heat of the air passing through the circulation path (130) by exchanging heat between the air and the refrigerant flowing into the circulation path (130) through the suction duct (120) from the drum (30). In addition, the evaporator (210) condenses moisture contained in the air passing through the circulation path (130).

The condenser (220) exchanges heat between the air passing through the evaporator (210) and the refrigerant, and re-introduces the heated air into the drum (30) through the inlet duct (140). The low-temperature, low-humidity air passing through the evaporator (210) is introduced into the condenser (220) and changes into a high-temperature, low-humidity state by exchanging heat with the refrigerant.

The refrigerant discharged from the condenser (220) passes through the evaporator (210) and is recovered by the compressor (230). The compressor (230) compresses the evaporated refrigerant and discharges it to the condenser (220), and the expansion valve (240) expands the refrigerant condensed in the condenser (220) in the evaporator (210).

The high temperature and humid air discharged from the drum (30) has a higher temperature than the refrigerant of the evaporator (210), so as it passes through the evaporator (210), the heat of the air is condensed and cooled by heat exchange with the refrigerant. Accordingly, the high temperature and humid air is dehumidified and cooled by the evaporator (210). The condensate generated during the process of condensing the air can be collected in a separate condensate housing and drained.

Referring to Figure 6, air circulation and refrigerant circulation are explained as follows.

The air is circulated by the circulation fan (110). The air passes through the drum (30) by the circulation fan (110) and is introduced into the evaporator (210), condenses in the evaporator (210), and is introduced into the condenser (220) in a low temperature and low humidity state. The air is heated by heat exchange with the refrigerant of the condenser (220), and then is introduced back into the drum (30). In this way, the air moves in the order of the drum (30), the evaporator (210), and the condenser (220).

The refrigerant is discharged to the condenser (220) in a high temperature and high pressure state by the compressor (230), and after exchanging heat with air in the condenser (220), it flows into the evaporator (210) and evaporates. An expansion valve (240) is installed between the condenser (220) and the evaporator (210). The expansion valve (240) expands the condensed refrigerant in a low temperature and high pressure state and delivers it to the evaporator (210). The expanded refrigerant is evaporated in the evaporator (210), flows into the compressor (230) in a low temperature and low pressure state, and then is discharged to the condenser (220) in a high temperature and high pressure state.

In this case, the expansion valve (240) may be formed as an electronic expansion valve (EEV).

The control unit (600) stores the operation settings input from the input unit (800) in the memory (140), processes the data transmitted and received through the communication unit (190), and controls the operation settings and operation status of the garment treatment device (1000) to be output through the output unit (175). If there is a terminal equipped with an application for controlling the garment treatment device (1000) and wirelessly connected to the garment treatment device (1000), the control unit (600) can control the communication unit (190) so that data of the garment treatment device (1000) is transmitted to the terminal.

The control unit (600) controls the operation of the drum (30) and the circulation fan (110) through the driving unit (160) according to the operation settings input from the input unit (800), and can variably control the operation according to the detection value of a specific sensor. The control unit (600) controls the heat exchange unit (200) during operation so that the circulated air is heated, and can control the temperature of the air supplied to the drum (30).

That is, the control unit (600) can control the operation of the air circulation unit (100) and the heat exchange unit (200). In this case, the operation of the air circulation unit (100) and the heat exchange unit (200) can include whether the air circulation unit (100) and the heat exchange unit (200) are on/off, the operating time, the operating status, etc.

A clothing treatment device (1000) having a structure as described above can dry clothing or bedding contained inside using high-temperature dry air.

Meanwhile, since multifunctionality is emerging that can conveniently create a comfortable space by removing moisture in a space where a clothing treatment device (1000) is installed through the clothing treatment device (1000) without a separate device, a configuration for drying an external space in the clothing treatment device (1000) may be additionally required.

Below, the configuration that performs a dehumidifying function for an external space through the above-described clothing treatment device (1000) will be described.

FIG. 7 is a drawing exemplarily showing a state in which dehumidification of an external space is performed in a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing in more detail a portion in which a dehumidification kit is installed in FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a drawing schematically showing the circulation of air in FIG. 7. FIGS. 10 to 12 are drawings showing in more detail the dehumidification kit in FIG. 7. FIG. 13 is a drawing exemplarily showing a holding state of a door in FIG. 7. FIGS. 14 and 15 are drawings showing in more detail a portion in which the dehumidification kit and the filter unit are combined in FIG. 7. FIGS. 16 and 17 are drawings showing a contact terminal of the dehumidification kit and an electrode sensor of the cabinet in FIG. 7.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 17, a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a drum (30), a suction duct (120), a circulation path (130), an inlet duct (140), a circulation fan (110), a heat exchange unit (200), a door (20), and a dehumidifying kit (900).

The drum (30) is installed inside the cabinet (10), and is a part whose front surface faces the inlet (18) of the cabinet (10), and air contained in the drum (30) can be discharged to the outside space through the inlet (18).

The suction duct (120) is located at the lower front side of the drum (30) and is a part where air is introduced, and air from the external space can be introduced into the suction duct (120) through the inlet (18).

The circulation path (130) is a part that is connected to the suction duct (120) and guides the flow of air, and air introduced into the suction duct (120) can be dehumidified while moving along the circulation path (130).

The circulation fan (110) is a part that forms a flow of air between the suction duct (120) and the inflow duct (140), and can apply pressure so that the air moves along the circulation path (130).

The heat exchanger (200) is installed on the circulation path (130) and exchanges heat with air. Air passing through the heat exchanger (200) can be heat exchanged and dehumidified.

The door (20) is a part installed in the cabinet (10) to open and close the inlet (18), and when the door (20) is open, outside air can flow into the suction duct (120) through the inlet (18).

The dehumidifying kit (900) is installed on the inlet (18) with the door (20) open, and is a part that separates the movement path of air discharged from the drum (30) through the inlet (18) and air flowing into the suction duct (120) through the inlet (18).

That is, as shown in Fig. 9, moist air in the external space can be introduced into the suction duct (120) through the dehumidifying kit (900) installed in the inlet (18). Then, the dehumidified air moving along the circulation path (130) within the clothing treatment device (1000) can be blocked from being introduced back into the suction duct (120) by the dehumidifying kit (900).

Accordingly, the dehumidified air can be immediately discharged to the outside space through the inlet (18), and the moist air in the outside space can be continuously introduced into the suction duct (120).

As described above, moist air in the external space of the clothing treatment device (1000) can be introduced into the suction duct (120) through the inlet (18), and can be pressurized by the circulation fan (110) along the circulation path (130), dehumidified by the heat exchanger (200), and then discharged back into the external space through the inlet (18) through the drum (30).

Accordingly, since moist air in the external space can pass through the clothing treatment device (1000) and be dehumidified, a dehumidification function can be implemented for the external space where the clothing treatment device (1000) is installed.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment allows air from an external space to be introduced into the circulation path (130) through the dehumidifying kit (900) installed on the inlet (18), dehumidified, and then discharged back into the external space, so that a dehumidifying function can be implemented for the external space where the clothing treatment device (1000) is installed as needed.

In addition, in the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment, the movement paths of air discharged from the drum (30) through the inlet (18) and air introduced into the suction duct (120) through the inlet (18) are separated by the dehumidification kit (900), so that the air before and after dehumidification does not mix with each other, and thus the dehumidification efficiency for the external space can be improved.

A clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a filter unit (300) installed between the inlet (18) and the suction duct (120) to capture foreign substances in the air.

In this case, the dehumidifying kit (900) can be detachably installed by covering the upper surface of the filter unit (300).

Specifically, a large amount of foreign substances such as lint may flow into the circulation path (130) from the drum (30), and such foreign substances may attach to the heat exchange unit (200) and reduce the performance of the heat exchange unit (200). In addition, contamination may occur due to the foreign substances flowing into the circulation path (130), and in particular, there is a concern that mold or bacteria may grow in a polluted and humid environment.

Therefore, it is necessary to install a filter unit (300) between the inlet (18) and the suction duct (120) to prevent foreign substances such as lint from flowing into the circulation path (130).

In this case, the filter unit (300) may include a plurality of filters. That is, as shown in FIG. 8, the filter unit (300) may be arranged such that the inner filter (302) is inserted into the outer filter (301), and the outer filter (3011) is inserted into the inside of the filter guide (121) and passes through the communication hole.

And, the duct connector (122) is mounted on the front cover (11) and connected to the filter guide (121). The duct connector (122) can be mounted on the front of the front cover (11). The lower part of the filter guide (121) can be accommodated within the duct connector (122).

When the filter unit (300) is installed as described above, the dehumidifying kit (900) can be installed on the upper surface of the filter unit (300). Accordingly, the dehumidifying kit (900) can be installed without using a separate fastening member, and the path of air discharged from the drum (30) on the upper surface of the filter unit (300) and air flowing into the suction duct (120) through the inlet (18) can be separated.

In particular, since the dehumidification kit (900) is detachably installed in the filter unit (300), it is easier for the user to perform drying of clothes accommodated inside the drum (30) or dehumidification of an external space.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment has a dehumidifying kit (900) detachably installed on the upper surface of the filter unit (300) installed between the inlet (18) and the suction duct (120), so that the dehumidifying kit (900) can be installed and used more easily and conveniently as needed.

In a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a dehumidifying kit (900) may include a first body part (910) that protrudes toward the front surface of the inlet (18) and a second body part (920) that protrudes toward the rear surface of the inlet (18) and covers the upper surface of the filter part (300).

That is, as shown in FIGS. 9 to 12, the first body part (910) is formed to protrude toward the front surface of the inlet (18) so that air from the external space can flow into the lower portion of the first body part (910).

In addition, a second body part (920) is formed to protrude toward the rear surface of the inlet (18), so that air introduced into the lower portion of the first body part (910) can be introduced into the upper surface of the filter part (300) covered by the second body part (920).

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment is configured such that the dehumidifying kit (900) includes a first body part (910) and a second body part (920), and thus can smoothly move the air introduced from the rear side of the inlet (18) to the suction duct (120) after introducing external air from the front side of the inlet (18).

In a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the first body part (910) may be formed to have a relatively larger protrusion length than the second body part (920).

That is, as shown in FIGS. 9 to 12, the first body part (910) is formed to protrude relatively more so that air from the external space can more easily flow into the dehumidifying kit (900).

On the other hand, the second body part (920) is formed to protrude relatively less, so that the air contained in the drum (30) after dehumidification can be minimized from flowing into the second body part (920). In other words, the air discharged from the drum (30) can be minimized from colliding with the air flowing into the dehumidification kit (900).

In this way, the garment treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment is formed so that the first body part (910) protrudes relatively more than the second body part (920), thereby facilitating the inflow of external air while minimizing collision with air discharged from the drum (30).

In a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the dehumidifying kit (900) may further include a holder part (930) that is arranged on the outer surface of the first body part (910) and is capable of holding the door (20) in an open state.

That is, as shown in FIGS. 10 to 13, the door (20) can be held in an open state by the holder part (930) arranged on the outer surface of the dehumidifying kit (900).

As described above, in order for the air in the external space to be dehumidified, the air in the external space must be introduced into the circulation path (130) through the inlet (18), so it is necessary to keep the door (20) open.

In this case, if the door (20) is closed due to movement or external impact resulting from the operation of the clothing treatment device (1000), dehumidification of the air in the external space cannot be achieved.

Therefore, it may be desirable to stably hold the door (20) so that movement of the door (20) can be prevented while dehumidifying the air in the external space.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment holds the door (20) in an open state through the holder part (930) of the dehumidifying kit (900), so that the door (20) is stably supported when dehumidifying an external space, thereby enabling a smooth dehumidifying function to be implemented.

In a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the holder part (930) may be magnetically attached to the door (20). That is, at least one of the holder part (930) and the door (20) includes a magnet or an electromagnet, so that the holder part (930) and the door (20) may be attached to each other by magnetic force.

Accordingly, the door (20) can be stably held without being separated from the holder part (930) for an external force lower than the magnetic force, and when dehumidification of the external space is completed, the holder part (930) and the door (20) can be easily separated by applying a predetermined pressure higher than the magnetic force.

In this way, in the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment, since the holder part (930) and the door (20) are attached through magnetic force, attachment and detachment of the holder part (930) and the door (20) can be made more easily.

In a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the door (20) can maintain an opening angle of 20° when held by the holder part (930).

As described above, in order to achieve dehumidification of the external space, it may be desirable to secure a large open area of the inlet (18).

However, if the door (20) is opened at an excessively large angle to secure a large opening area of the inlet (18), the door (20) may take up a lot of space, causing interference with other components and causing inconvenience to the user.

Therefore, it may be desirable to open the door (20) only to a degree that allows smooth dehumidification of the external space while not causing interference with other components or inconvenience to the user.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment holds the door (20) to maintain an opening angle of 20° when dehumidifying an external space, so that dehumidification of an external space can be performed while minimizing inconvenience to the user due to the opening of the door (20).

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the dehumidifying kit (900) may be formed in a shape including a curved surface so that the installation surface that comes into contact with the inlet (18) corresponds to the shape of the inlet (18).

As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the inlet (18) is generally formed in a circular shape, and according to the shape of the inlet (18), the upper surface of the filter part (300) is also generally formed in a shape that includes a curved surface.

Accordingly, the dehumidifying kit (900) installed in the inlet (18), and particularly installed on the upper surface of the filter unit (300), also needs to be formed to correspond to the shape of the upper surface of the inlet (18) and the filter unit (300).

That is, it may be desirable for the installation surface of the dehumidifying kit (900) that comes into contact with the inlet (18) to be formed to correspond to the shape of the upper surface of the inlet (18) and the filter unit (300) so that the dehumidifying kit (900) can be stably installed on the inlet (18).

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment is formed so that the installation surface of the dehumidifying kit (900) corresponds to the curved shape of the inlet (18), so that the dehumidifying kit (900) can be stably installed on the inlet (18).

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, an inner rib (940) protruding inwardly may be formed on an installation surface of a dehumidifying kit (900) that comes into contact with an inlet (18).

That is, as shown in FIGS. 10 to 12, an inner rib (940) is formed protrudingly on the inner surface of the dehumidifying kit (900) so that the structural rigidity of the dehumidifying kit (900) can be reinforced.

In addition, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the inner rib (940) of the dehumidifying kit (900) can be inserted into a part of the inlet (18), particularly a groove structure on the upper surface of the filter portion (300). Accordingly, the dehumidifying kit (900) can be more stably coupled to the inlet (18), and particularly, the coupling state between the dehumidifying kit (900) and the filter portion (300) can be stably maintained.

In this way, since the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment has an inner rib (940) protrudingly formed on the installation surface of the dehumidifying kit (900), the inner rib (940) can be inserted into a part of the inlet (18) to maintain a more stable bonding state.

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a handle (950) may be formed on the upper surface of a dehumidifying kit (900). That is, as shown in FIG. 10, a user may hold the handle (950) formed on the upper surface of the dehumidifying kit (900) to move the dehumidifying kit (900).

As described above, the dehumidification kit (900) is installed and used only when there is a need for dehumidification of an external space, and therefore, it needs to be easy to store and move.

In particular, since the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed in a manner that it is secured to the upper surface of the filter unit (300), it may be more convenient and efficient to move the dehumidifying kit (900) by holding the upper surface thereof.

Accordingly, since the garment treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment has a handle (950) formed on the upper surface of the dehumidifying kit (900), the dehumidifying kit (900) can be moved more easily when attaching or detaching the dehumidifying kit (900).

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a contact terminal (960) that can be electrically connected to a cabinet (10) can be formed in a state where a dehumidifying kit (900) is installed on an inlet (18).

As described above, since the dehumidification kit (900) is installed and used only when there is a need for dehumidification of an external space, separate control of the clothing treatment device (1000) is required when the dehumidification kit (900) is installed.

Therefore, it is necessary to more easily determine whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed, and through this, it is necessary to ensure that the clothing treatment device (1000) always operates under optimal control.

Accordingly, by forming a contact terminal (960) in the dehumidifying kit (900) and detecting a change due to the contact terminal (960) being electrically connected to the cabinet (10), it is possible to more easily determine whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed.

In this regard, a detailed description of the electrical connection between the contact terminal (960) and the cabinet (10) will be described later.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment has a contact terminal (960) formed on the dehumidifying kit (900) so that electrical connection with the cabinet (10) is possible when the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed, so that whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed can be determined more easily and accurately.

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a dehumidifying kit (900) may be formed so that a contact terminal (960) can be electrically connected to a plurality of points of a cabinet (10).

In order for the contact terminal (960) to be electrically connected to the cabinet (10), the dehumidifying kit (900) always needs to be installed in an optimal position. However, in some cases, the dehumidifying kit (900) may be installed in a position that is somewhat misaligned or may be displaced from the originally installed position by an external force or vibration.

In this case, if the connection point between the contact terminal (960) and the cabinet (10) is misaligned, there is a problem in that it is impossible to accurately determine whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed even though it is installed.

Therefore, in order to minimize false detections related to electrical connections, it may be desirable for the contact terminal (960) to be in contact with multiple points on the cabinet (10).

In this way, since the contact terminal (960) of the dehumidifying kit (900) of the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment can be electrically connected to multiple points of the cabinet (10), even if the installation position of the dehumidifying kit (900) is misaligned to a certain extent, contact can be made through the contact terminal (960).

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a dehumidifying kit (900) may have a contact terminal (960) made of an elastically deformable material.

In order for the contact terminal (960) to make smooth contact with the cabinet (10), it may be advantageous if the contact terminal (960) protrudes more. However, if the contact terminal (960) protrudes too much, there is a risk of damage or breakage during the attachment/detachment process of the dehumidification kit (900).

Therefore, it may be desirable to configure the contact terminal (960) to be elastically deformed by an external force so as to cushion the pressure applied during attachment and detachment while ensuring smooth contact with the cabinet (10).

In this way, since the contact terminal (960) of the dehumidifying kit (900) of the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment is elastically deformable, damage and breakage of the contact terminal (960) can be minimized when attaching or detaching the dehumidifying kit (900), while allowing smooth contact through the contact terminal (960).

A clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a drum (30), a suction duct (120), a circulation path (130), an inlet duct (140), a circulation fan (110), a heat exchange unit (200), a dehumidifying kit (900), and a control unit (600).

A dehumidifying kit (900) is installed on the inlet (18) to separate the movement path of air discharged from the drum (30) through the inlet (18) and air flowing into the suction duct (120) through the inlet (18).

Accordingly, moist air in the external space can be introduced into the suction duct (120) through the dehumidifying kit (900) installed in the inlet (18), and moved along the circulation path (130) within the clothing treatment device (1000), and the dehumidified air can be prevented from being introduced back into the suction duct (120) by the dehumidifying kit (900).

And, the dehumidified air can be immediately discharged to the outside space through the inlet (18), and the moist air of the outside space can be continuously introduced into the suction duct (120).

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment allows air from an external space to be introduced into the circulation path (130) through the dehumidifying kit (900) installed on the inlet (18), dehumidified, and then discharged back into the external space, so that a dehumidifying function can be implemented for the external space where the clothing treatment device (1000) is installed as needed.

In addition, in the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment, the movement paths of air discharged from the drum (30) through the inlet (18) and air introduced into the suction duct (120) through the inlet (18) are separated by the dehumidification kit (900), so that the air before and after dehumidification does not mix with each other, and thus the dehumidification efficiency for the external space can be improved.

The control unit (600) controls the operation of the drum (30) and the circulation fan (110) depending on whether the dehumidification kit (900) is installed. It can determine when dehumidification of an external space is necessary and control accordingly to ensure that it is performed in an optimal state.

That is, in cases where drying is required for clothes accommodated inside the clothes treatment device (1000) when the dehumidification kit (900) is not installed, the control unit (600) can control air to circulate inside the clothes treatment device (1000) and dry the clothes.

And, in the case where a dehumidification kit (900) is installed, since dehumidification is required for the space outside the clothing treatment device (1000), the control unit (600) can control air flow between the inside and outside of the clothing treatment device (1000) while minimizing unnecessary operations.

If the clothing treatment device (1000) is controlled without considering whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed, a safety accident due to user misuse, etc. and malfunction of the clothing treatment device (1000) may occur.

Therefore, it may be desirable to determine whether a dehumidifying kit (900) is installed and control the clothing treatment device (1000) accordingly.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment controls the operation of the drum (30) and the circulation fan (110) by the control unit (600) reflecting whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed, so that the clothing treatment device (1000) can always be operated with optimal control.

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a cabinet (10) is provided with an electrode sensor (710) capable of detecting a resistance value generated when electricity is applied, and a dehumidifying kit (900) may be provided with a contact terminal (960) that can make contact with the electrode sensor (710) while installed on an inlet (18).

In this case, the control unit (600) can determine whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed through the change in resistance value depending on whether the electrode sensor (710) and the contact terminal (960) are in contact.

Specifically, an electrode sensor (710) that detects the state of laundry contained inside the cabinet (10) may be installed. Two electrode sensors (710) may be installed, and the two electrode sensors (710) may be installed as positive and negative electrodes spaced apart by a predetermined distance and exposed toward the drum (30).

The electrode sensor (710) can detect the condition of the laundry, particularly the moisture content of the laundry, as it comes into contact with the laundry while the laundry flows due to the rotation of the drum (30). The control unit (600) can determine the drying condition of the laundry based on the moisture content of the laundry detected by the electrode sensor (710).

When laundry comes into contact with the electrode sensor (710), a closed circuit is formed as the anode is conducted by the moisture contained in the laundry, and the current value flowing in the circuit varies depending on the moisture content of the laundry, so the dryness of the clothing can be determined based on the current value. The laundry acts as resistance to the electrode, and since the resistance value varies depending on the moisture content of the laundry, the current flowing in the circuit can also vary.

To this end, as illustrated in FIG. 16, a clothing treatment device (1000) can be configured to estimate the moisture content within a drum (30) through an electrode sensor (710).

And, as shown in Fig. 17, when the contact terminal (960) formed in the dehumidifying kit (900) comes into contact with the electrode sensor (710) as described above, a resistance value different from the resistance value caused by laundry may be generated. Accordingly, by detecting the change in this resistance value, it is possible to automatically determine whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment determines whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed through a change in resistance value depending on whether the contact terminal (960) formed on the dehumidifying kit (900) and the electrode sensor (710) installed in the cabinet (10) are in contact, so it is possible to more easily determine whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed.

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, if it is determined that a dehumidifying kit (900) is installed, the control unit (600) can control the operation of the drum (30) to be stopped.

When drying clothes accommodated inside a clothes handling device (1000), it is necessary for the drum (30) to rotate and evenly dry the accommodated clothes.

On the other hand, when performing a dehumidifying function for an external space of a clothing treatment device (1000), the drum (30) does not need to rotate and unnecessary operation of the drum (30) may be inappropriate as it causes power loss, etc.

Accordingly, in the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment, when the dehumidification kit (900) is installed, the control unit (600) stops the operation of the drum (30), so that unnecessary operation of the drum (30) can be prevented when dehumidifying an external space.

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, when it is determined that a dehumidifying kit (900) is installed, the control unit (600) can control the load of the circulation fan (110) to be lowered.

When drying clothes accommodated inside a clothes treatment device (1000), air is circulated only inside the clothes treatment device (1000), so that the operating noise of the circulation fan (110) can be transmitted relatively less to the outside.

In particular, in this case, since the clothing treatment device (1000) is operated with the door (20) closed, it can be said that there is no need to greatly consider the operating noise caused by the circulation fan (110).

On the other hand, when performing a dehumidifying function for the external space of the clothing treatment device (1000), since air moves between the inside and outside of the clothing treatment device (1000), the operating noise of the circulation fan (110) may also be transmitted to the outside of the clothing treatment device (1000).

In particular, in this case, since the clothing treatment device (1000) is operated with the door (20) open, the operating noise caused by the circulation fan (110) may cause discomfort to the user.

Accordingly, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment can minimize noise caused by the operation of the circulation fan (110) when dehumidifying an external space, since the control unit (600) lowers the load of the circulation fan (110) when the dehumidification kit (900) is installed.

A garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a door (20) installed in a cabinet (10) to open and close an inlet (18).

In this case, the control unit (600) can control the door (20) to be unlocked when it is determined that the dehumidification kit (900) is installed.

When drying clothes accommodated inside a clothes handling device (1000), the door (20) must be kept closed, so it is necessary to ensure that the door (20) is kept locked.

Therefore, in such cases, it may be desirable to control the clothing handling device (1000) so that it does not operate unless the door (20) is locked.

On the other hand, when performing a dehumidifying function for the external space of the clothing treatment device (1000), the door (20) must be kept open, so it is necessary to ensure that the door (20) is unlocked.

Therefore, in such cases, it may be desirable to control the clothing handling device (1000) so that it does not operate if the door (20) is locked. In particular, it may be desirable to display an error indication according to the locked state of the door (20) so that the user can check that the door (20) is open.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment can keep the door (20) open when dehumidifying an external space because the control unit (600) unlocks the door (20) when the dehumidification kit (900) is installed.

A clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a filter unit (300) installed between the inlet (18) and the suction duct (120) to capture foreign substances in the air.

In this case, the dehumidifying kit (900) can be detachably installed by covering the upper surface of the filter unit (300).

Accordingly, the dehumidifying kit (900) can be installed without using a separate fastening member, and the path of air discharged from the drum (30) on the upper surface of the filter unit (300) and air flowing into the suction duct (120) through the inlet (18) can be separated.

In particular, since the dehumidification kit (900) is detachably installed in the filter unit (300), it is easier for the user to perform drying of clothes accommodated inside the drum (30) or dehumidification of an external space.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment has a dehumidifying kit (900) detachably installed on the upper surface of the filter unit (300) installed between the inlet (18) and the suction duct (120), so that the dehumidifying kit (900) can be installed and used more easily and conveniently as needed.

In a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a dehumidifying kit (900) may include a first body part (910) that protrudes toward the front surface of the inlet (18) and a second body part (920) that protrudes toward the rear surface of the inlet (18) and covers the upper surface of the filter part (300).

That is, the first body part (910) is formed to protrude toward the front surface of the inlet (18), so that air from the external space can flow into the lower portion of the first body part (910), and the second body part (920) is formed to protrude toward the rear surface of the inlet (18), so that air flowing into the lower portion of the first body part (910) can flow into the upper surface of the filter part (300) covered by the second body part (920).

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment is configured such that the dehumidifying kit (900) includes a first body part (910) and a second body part (920), and thus can smoothly move the air introduced from the rear side of the inlet (18) to the suction duct (120) after introducing external air from the front side of the inlet (18).

In a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the dehumidifying kit (900) may further include a holder part (930) that is arranged on the outer surface of the first body part (910) and is capable of holding the door (20) in an open state.

That is, while dehumidification of the air in the external space is performed, the door (20) can be stably held through the holder part (930) so that movement of the door (20) can be prevented.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment holds the door (20) in an open state through the holder part (930) of the dehumidifying kit (900), so that the door (20) is stably supported when dehumidifying an external space, thereby enabling a smooth dehumidifying function to be implemented.

In a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the holder part (930) may be magnetically attached to the door (20). That is, at least one of the holder part (930) and the door (20) includes a magnet or an electromagnet, so that the holder part (930) and the door (20) may be attached to each other by magnetic force.

In this way, in the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment, since the holder part (930) and the door (20) are attached through magnetic force, attachment and detachment of the holder part (930) and the door (20) can be made more easily.

In a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a cabinet (10) may be provided with a plurality of electrode sensors (710) spaced apart from each other, and a dehumidifying kit (900) may be formed so that a contact terminal (960) can be connected to a plurality of electrode sensors (710).

That is, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the contact terminal (960) can be in contact with multiple points of the cabinet (10) to minimize false detection related to electrical connection.

In this way, since the contact terminal (960) of the dehumidifying kit (900) of the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment can be electrically connected to multiple points of the cabinet (10), even if the installation position of the dehumidifying kit (900) is misaligned to a certain extent, contact can be made through the contact terminal (960).

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a dehumidifying kit (900) may have a contact terminal (960) made of an elastically deformable material.

That is, the contact terminal (960) is configured to be elastically deformed by an external force, thereby buffering the pressure applied during attachment and detachment, while allowing smooth contact with the cabinet (10).

In this way, since the contact terminal (960) of the dehumidifying kit (900) of the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment is elastically deformable, damage and breakage of the contact terminal (960) can be minimized when attaching or detaching the dehumidifying kit (900), while allowing smooth contact through the contact terminal (960).

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a contact terminal (960) may be formed such that both ends are fixed to the inner surface of a dehumidifying kit (900) and the central portion protrudes into the interior of the dehumidifying kit (900).

That is, as illustrated in Fig. 17, the contact terminal (960) may be formed by being bent into a shape in which the central portion protrudes. Both ends of the contact terminal (960) may be fixed to the inner surface of the dehumidifying kit (900), and the central portion of the contact terminal (960) may be formed into a shape in which it protrudes toward the electrode sensor (710).

Accordingly, even if the contact terminal (960) comes into contact with the electrode sensor (710) and is pressed by pressure, deformation can be minimized because both ends of the contact terminal (960) are supported by the dehumidifying kit (900).

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment is configured such that the central portion of the contact terminal (960) protrudes while the two ends of the contact terminal (960) are fixed, so that deformation or damage to the contact terminal (960) can be minimized even when used for a long period of time.

Fig. 18 is a drawing exemplarily showing the test results for implantation in a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 19 is a flowchart showing a control method according to the presence or absence of implantation in a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

A clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a drum (30), a suction duct (120), a circulation path (130), an inlet duct (140), a circulation fan (110), a heat exchange unit (200), a dehumidifying kit (900), and a control unit (600).

The control unit (600) is a unit that determines whether frost has formed through the superheating of the heat exchange unit (200) and the temperature change of the refrigerant passing through the heat exchange unit (200) and controls the operation of the circulation fan (110) and the heat exchange unit (200), thereby allowing the function of the clothing treatment device (1000) to always be performed smoothly by reflecting the presence of frost.

Specifically, when dehumidifying the external space of the clothing treatment device (1000), the heat pump cycle of the clothing treatment device (1000) is utilized as is to dry the clothing accommodated inside.

In this case, the dehumidification function for the external space can be operated with a relatively sharply reduced refrigeration load compared to the function of drying clothes accommodated inside.

Accordingly, the heat exchange amount of the heat exchanger (200) (particularly, the evaporator (210)) decreases, the temperature decreases, and accordingly, freezing of moisture may occur on the surface of the heat exchanger (200) (particularly, the evaporator (210)) and growth of frost may occur.

If such an idea occurs, problems such as damage to the compressor (230) may occur due to refrigerant that is not compressed after flowing into the compressor (230) by interfering with heat exchange.

Therefore, it can be said that a control is necessary to protect the heat pump cycle by effectively identifying whether or not implantation has occurred as described above and removing the implanted sex organ.

In this regard, referring to Fig. 18, it can be experimentally found that when the superheat is maintained below 2℃ for 2 minutes or more, a phenomenon of superheat reversal occurs. Accordingly, it can be suspected that uncompressed refrigerant is flowing into the compressor (230), and frost formation due to this can occur in the heat exchanger (200).

In this case, the degree of superheat refers to the difference between the temperature at which the refrigerant that has undergone a freezing action in the evaporator (210) becomes a dry saturated gas and the gas is further superheated and the temperature of the evaporator (210).

And, it can be experimentally confirmed that frost formation occurs when the temperature difference of the refrigerant passing through the heat exchanger (200) (particularly, the evaporator (210)) is maintained at -5°C or less for 2 minutes or more.

According to the above characteristics, by detecting the superheat of the heat exchanger (200) and the temperature change of the refrigerant passing through the heat exchanger (200), it is possible to easily determine whether frost has formed, and it may be possible to set conditions necessary for defrosting to remove such frost.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment determines whether frost has formed through the superheating of the heat exchange unit (200) and the temperature change of the refrigerant passing through the heat exchange unit (200), and the control unit (600) controls the operation of the circulation fan (110) and the heat exchange unit (200), so that the function of the clothing treatment device (1000) can always be performed smoothly.

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit (600) can control the device by considering it as an implantation state when the superheating degree of the heat exchange unit (200) is maintained at a first set value or lower for a first set time or longer.

In this case, the first set value (e.g., 2°C) and the first set time (e.g., 1 minute) are factors appropriately selected through prior experiments or statistical data, and can be variously set by the design stage of the clothing treatment device (1000) or the user's selection.

As described above, if the superheat of the heat exchanger remains below 2℃ for more than 2 minutes, it is a situation in which frost formation can be suspected. Therefore, if the superheat of the heat exchanger remains below the first preset value for more than the first preset time, it is necessary to control it as a frost formation state.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment considers the heat exchange unit (200) to be in a state of being ...

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a heat exchange unit (200) may include an evaporator (210) that removes moisture from air passing through a circulation path (130), a condenser (220) that heats air passing through the evaporator (210), and a compressor (230) that recovers and compresses refrigerant discharged from the condenser (220) and passing through the evaporator (210).

Accordingly, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment can effectively perform the dehumidifying function of air through heat exchange with a refrigerant.

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit (600) can control the device by considering it as an implantation state when the temperature difference of the refrigerant passing through the evaporator (210) is maintained at a second set value or lower for a second set time or longer.

In this case, the second set value (e.g., 0°C) and the second set time (e.g., 1 minute) are factors appropriately selected through prior experiments or statistical data, and can be variously set by the design stage of the clothing treatment device (1000) or the user's selection.

As described above, since it is strongly assumed that frost formation occurs when the temperature difference of the refrigerant passing through the evaporator (210) remains at -5°C or lower for 2 minutes or longer, it can be more reliably considered that frost formation occurs if the temperature difference of the refrigerant passing through the evaporator (210) remains at a state lower than the second set value for a second set time or longer.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment considers the frosting state to be in a state where the temperature difference of the refrigerant passing through the evaporator (210) is maintained at a second set value or lower for a second set time or longer, so whether the heat exchange unit (200) is frosted can be verified more accurately.

In a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit (600) can control the operation of the compressor (230) to be stopped when it is considered to be in a landing state.

As described above, in the implantation state, the compressor (230) may be damaged due to the refrigerant that is not compressed after being introduced into the compressor (230). Therefore, it may be desirable to perform the defrosting after the operation of the compressor (230) is stopped in the implantation state.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment can prevent damage to the compressor (230) due to uncompressed refrigerant since the control unit (600) stops the operation of the compressor (230) when it is considered to be in a landing state.

In a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit (600) can control the circulation fan (110) to operate when the garment is considered to be in a landing state.

That is, if it is determined that the garment is in an implanted state, it is necessary to allow the garment to be evaporated, and it may be desirable to operate the circulation fan (110), which is one of the main components of the clothing treatment device (1000), to evaporate the implanted garment.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment can perform defrosting to remove the implanted semen by evaporation since the control unit (600) operates the circulation fan (110) when the semen is considered to be in an implanted state.

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit (600) can control the compressor (230) to be in a stopped state and the circulation fan (110) to be in an operating state until the temperature difference of the refrigerant passing through the evaporator (210) is maintained at a third set value or higher for a third set time or longer.

In this case, the third set value (e.g., 0℃) and the third set time (e.g., 1 minute) are factors appropriately selected through prior experiments or statistical data, and can be variously set according to the design stage of the clothing treatment device (1000) or the user's selection.

As described above, the compressor (230) may be stopped and the circulation fan (110) may be operated for defrosting, and it may be desirable to maintain this state until the defrosting reaches an appropriate level.

Therefore, it is necessary to maintain control of the compressor (230) and the circulation fan (110) for defrosting until it is determined that the refrigerant passing through the evaporator (210) is not in a frost state based on the temperature difference.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment maintains the operation for defrosting until the temperature difference of the refrigerant passing through the evaporator (210) is maintained at a third set value or higher for a third set time or longer, so that defrosting can be sufficiently achieved to a state where smooth function can be exerted.

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit (600) can determine whether or not frost has formed only through the superheating degree of the heat exchange unit (200) and the temperature change of the refrigerant passing through the heat exchange unit (200) when the dehumidification kit (900) is installed.

As described above, when dehumidifying an external space, a problem of deterioration of the heat pump cycle function due to frost formation may occur. Therefore, when a user installs a dehumidification kit (900) to operate the dehumidification function for an external space, it may be desirable to consider frost identification and corresponding defrosting operation.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment can determine whether frost has formed through the degree of overheating of the heat exchange unit (200) and the temperature change of the refrigerant passing through the heat exchange unit (200) only when the dehumidification kit (900) is installed, so it can effectively deal with the frost phenomenon that may occur in the heat exchange unit (200) when dehumidifying an external space.

In a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a cabinet (10) is provided with an electrode sensor (710) capable of detecting a resistance value generated when electricity is applied, and a dehumidifying kit (900) may be provided with a contact terminal (960) that can make contact with the electrode sensor (710) while installed on an inlet (18).

In this case, the control unit (600) can determine whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed through the change in resistance value depending on whether the electrode sensor (710) and the contact terminal (960) are in contact.

In this way, the clothing treatment device (1000) according to the present embodiment determines whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed through a change in resistance value depending on whether the contact terminal (960) formed on the dehumidifying kit (900) and the electrode sensor (710) installed in the cabinet (10) are in contact, so it is possible to more easily determine whether the dehumidifying kit (900) is installed.

In a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, if the control unit (600) determines that a dehumidifying kit (900) is installed, the operation of the drum (30) is controlled to be stopped, thereby preventing unnecessary operation of the drum (30) when dehumidifying an external space.

In addition, in a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, if it is determined that a dehumidifying kit (900) is installed, the control unit (600) controls the load of the circulation fan (110) to be lowered, thereby minimizing noise caused by the operation of the circulation fan (110) when dehumidifying an external space.

In addition, in a clothing treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, if the control unit (600) determines that a dehumidifying kit (900) is installed, the door (20) can be controlled to be unlocked, thereby maintaining the door (20) in an open state when dehumidifying an external space.

Hereinafter, a process of controlling whether or not a garment is implanted in a garment treatment device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 19.

First, the user can install a dehumidification kit (900) as needed (S100) to enable dehumidification of the external space of the clothing treatment device (1000).

Next, the path of air discharged from the drum (30) by the dehumidifying kit (900) and the path of air flowing into the suction duct (120) can be separated (S200). Then, the air can be heat-exchanged in the circulation path (130) (S300).

Accordingly, moist air in the external space of the clothing treatment device (1000) can be introduced into the suction duct (120) through the inlet (18), and can be pressurized by the circulation fan (110) along the circulation path (130), dehumidified by the heat exchanger (200), and then discharged back into the external space through the inlet (18) through the drum (30).

Next, the presence or absence of the frost can be determined through the superheating of the heat exchanger (200) (S400). That is, if the superheating of the heat exchanger (200) is maintained at a state lower than or equal to the first set value for a first set time or longer, it is considered to be a frosting state, and the presence or absence of the heat exchanger (200) can be appropriately determined without a separate additional configuration.

Next, the presence or absence of frost formation can be determined through the temperature difference of the refrigerant passing through the evaporator (210) (S500). That is, if the temperature difference of the refrigerant passing through the evaporator (210) is maintained at a state lower than or equal to the second set value for a second set time or longer, it is considered to be a frost formation state, and the presence or absence of frost formation of the heat exchange unit (200) can be verified more accurately.

Next, if it is considered to be in an implantation state (S600), the operation of the compressor (230) can be stopped (S610). That is, if it is considered to be in an implantation state, the control unit (600) stops the operation of the compressor (230), thereby preventing the compressor (230) from being damaged due to uncompressed refrigerant.

In addition, when it is considered to be in an implantation state (S600), the circulation fan (110) can be operated (S620). That is, when it is considered to be in an implantation state, the control unit (600) operates the circulation fan (110) so that the implanted spores can be evaporated and removed.

Next, the end point of the defrost in step S600 can be set by the temperature difference of the refrigerant passing through the evaporator (210) (S700). That is, the operation for defrosting is maintained until the temperature difference of the refrigerant passing through the evaporator (210) is maintained at a third set value or higher for a third set time or longer, so that the defrost can be sufficiently performed to a state where smooth function can be exerted.

Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated above, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, and that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, such modifications or variations should not be understood individually from the technical spirit or perspective of the present invention, and the modified embodiments should fall within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

10: Cabinet 18: Inlet
30: Drum 100: Air circulation part
110: Circulation fan 120: Suction duct
130: Circulation path 140: Inlet duct
150: Exhaust duct 200: Heat exchanger
210: Evaporator 220: Condenser
230: Compressor 240: Expansion valve
300: Filter section 600: Control section
700: Sensor section 710: Electrode sensor
800: Input 900: Dehumidifying Kit
910: First body part 920: Second body part
930: Holder part 940: Inner rib
950: Handle 960: Contact Terminal
1000: Garment handling device

Claims (12)

A drum installed inside a cabinet, the front surface of which faces the inlet of the cabinet;
An intake duct arranged at the lower front surface of the drum to allow air to flow in;
A circulation path connected to the above suction duct to guide the flow of air;
An inlet duct that connects the above circulation path and the above drum to reintroduce air into the drum;
A circulation fan that forms a flow of air between the above suction duct and the above inflow duct;
A heat exchanger installed on the above circulation path and exchanging heat with air;
A dehumidifying kit installed on the inlet to cover the suction duct and shield the inlet portion on the side where the suction duct is arranged from the rest of the portion, thereby separating the movement path of air discharged from the drum through the inlet and air flowing into the suction duct through the inlet; and
A control unit that controls the operation of the drum and the circulation fan depending on whether the dehumidification kit is installed;
A garment treatment device comprising: In the first paragraph,
The above cabinet is equipped with an electrode sensor that can detect the resistance value generated when electricity is supplied.
The above dehumidifying kit is formed with a contact terminal that can make contact with the electrode sensor when installed on the above inlet.
A clothing treatment device in which the control unit determines whether the dehumidifying kit is installed through a change in resistance value depending on whether the electrode sensor and the contact terminal are in contact. In the second paragraph,
A clothing treatment device, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the drum to stop when it is determined that the dehumidifying kit is installed. In the third paragraph,
A clothing treatment device, wherein the control unit controls the load of the circulation fan to be lowered when it is determined that the dehumidifying kit is installed. In any one of the second to fourth paragraphs,
Further comprising a door installed in the cabinet to open and close the inlet;
A clothing treatment device, wherein the control unit controls the door to be unlocked when it is determined that the dehumidifying kit is installed. In paragraph 5,
It further includes a filter unit installed between the inlet and the suction duct to capture foreign substances in the air;
A clothing treatment device in which the above dehumidifying kit is detachably installed to cover the upper surface of the above filter section. In Article 6,
The above dehumidifying kit,
A first body part formed to protrude toward the front surface of the above inlet,
A garment treatment device including a second body part that protrudes toward the rear surface of the inlet and covers the upper surface of the filter part. In Article 7,
The above dehumidifying kit,
A garment processing device further comprising a holder portion arranged on an outer surface of the first body portion and capable of holding the door in an open state. In Article 8,
A clothing processing device in which the holder part is magnetically attached to the door. In any one of the second to fourth paragraphs,
The above cabinet is installed with multiple electrode sensors spaced apart from each other,
The above dehumidifying kit is a clothing treatment device in which the contact terminals are formed so as to be connectable to a plurality of the electrode sensors. In any one of the second to fourth paragraphs,
The above dehumidifying kit is a clothing treatment device in which the contact terminal is made of an elastically deformable material. In Article 11,
A clothing treatment device, wherein the contact terminal is fixed at both ends on the inner side of the dehumidifying kit and the central portion protrudes into the interior of the dehumidifying kit.