U.S. patent application number 11/629298 was filed with the patent office on 2009-06-04 for laundry device and method for controlling the same.
Invention is credited to Byung Hwan Ahn, Hung Myong Cho, Soung Bong Choi, Seong Hai Jeong, Hyeok Deok Kim, Deug Hee Lee.
Application Number | 20090139037 11/629298 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37115299 |
Filed Date | 2009-06-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090139037 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jeong; Seong Hai ; et
al. |
June 4, 2009 |
Laundry device and method for controlling the same
Abstract
Disclosed hereinafter is a laundry device. More particularly, a
washing machine comprises a steam generation unit installed therein
to generate and supply steam to an outside of the washing machine
or to a laundry-receiving device to remove wrinkles on laundry by
using the steam supplied from the steam generation unit, and a
method for controlling operation thereof. A method for controlling
the washing machine is also disclosed. The washing machine
comprises a steam generation unit to generate steam, and an steam
outside-supplying pipe connected with the steam generation unit to
supply the steam to an outside of the washing machine.
Inventors: |
Jeong; Seong Hai;
(Gyeongsangnam-Do, KR) ; Choi; Soung Bong;
(Gyeongsangnam-do, KR) ; Ahn; Byung Hwan;
(Gyeongsangnam-do, KR) ; Kim; Hyeok Deok;
(Gyeongsangnam-do, KR) ; Lee; Deug Hee;
(Gyeongsangnam-do, KR) ; Cho; Hung Myong;
(Gyeongsangnam-do, KR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MCKENNA LONG & ALDRIDGE LLP
1900 K STREET, NW
WASHINGTON
DC
20006
US
|
Family ID: |
37115299 |
Appl. No.: |
11/629298 |
Filed: |
March 31, 2006 |
PCT Filed: |
March 31, 2006 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/KR06/01020 |
371 Date: |
February 5, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
8/149.3 ; 68/4;
68/5R |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 29/00 20130101;
D06F 58/14 20130101; D06F 75/12 20130101; D06F 39/008 20130101;
D06F 39/00 20130101; D06F 58/10 20130101; D06F 58/203 20130101;
A61L 2/07 20130101; D06F 25/00 20130101; D06F 35/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
8/149.3 ; 68/5.R;
68/4 |
International
Class: |
D06B 1/00 20060101
D06B001/00; D06F 39/04 20060101 D06F039/04 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 22, 2005 |
KR |
10-2005-0033500 |
Apr 22, 2005 |
KR |
10-2005-0033504 |
Claims
1. A washing or drying machine, comprising: a steam generation unit
to generate steam; and an steam outside-supplying pipe connected
with the steam generation unit to supply the steam to an outside of
the washing or drying machine.
2. The washing or drying machine according to claim 1, wherein the
steam outside-supplying pipe is able to be drawn out from the
washing or drying machine.
3. The washing or drying machine according to claim 2, wherein the
steam outside-supplying pipe is length-adjustable.
4. The washing or drying machine according to claim 3, wherein the
steam outside-supplying pipe has at least a part of a
length-adjustable corrugated pipe.
5. The washing or drying machine according to claim 3, wherein the
steam outside-supplying pipe has at least a part of a telescopic
shape.
6. The washing or drying machine according to claim 1, further
comprising: a mounting part formed on a cabinet of the washing or
drying machine, the mounting part having one end connected with the
steam outside-supplying pipe, and the other end detachably
connected with an outer connection pipe coupled to an external
device.
7. A washing or drying machine, comprising: a steam generation unit
to generate steam; a laundry-receiving device having a space to
receive laundry therein when unfolded; and a laundry-steam
supplying pipe connected with the steam generation unit to supply
the steam to the laundry-receiving device.
8. The washing or drying machine according to claim 7, wherein the
laundry-receiving device comprise: a base; a cover to cover the
base; and a body between the base and the cover to provide the
space for receiving the laundry when unfolded.
9. The washing or drying machine according to claim 8, wherein the
laundry-steam supplying pipe is detachably connected with either
the cover or the base.
10. The washing or drying machine according to claim 8, further
comprising: a support capable of being drawn out from the washing
or drying machine and having an accommodation space to which the
laundry-receiving device is installed.
11. The washing or drying machine according to claim 10, wherein
the base is integrally formed with the support.
12. The washing or drying machine according to claim 10, wherein
the laundry-steam supplying pipe is length-adjustable.
13. A washing or drying machine, comprising: a steam generation
unit to generate steam; a drum to receive laundry to be washed or
dried; a laundry-receiving device having a space to receive the
laundry therein when unfolded; a laundry-steam supplying pipe
having a steam-laundry valve controlled by a controller to supply
the steam to the laundry-receiving device; and a drum-steam
supplying pipe having a steam-drum valve controlled by the
controller to supply the steam to the drum.
14. The washing or drying machine according to claim 13, wherein
the steam-drum valve and the steam-laundry valve are solenoid
valves.
15. The washing or drying machine according to claim 13, wherein
the steam-laundry supplying pipe is branched from the steam-drum
supplying pipe, and the steam-laundry valve and the steam-drum
valve are integrated and placed at the branch point.
16. The washing or drying machine according to claim 15, wherein
the integrated valve is a three-way valve
17. A method for controlling the washing or drying machine,
comprising the steps of: a) a course requiring steam being
selected; b) determining an object to be supplied with the steam
according to the selected course; c) controlling a valve of a steam
supplying pipe to supply the steam to the determined object; and d)
generating and supplying the steam through control of a steam
generation unit.
18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the course is at
least one of a course requiring the steam to be supplied to the
drum, a course requiring the steam to be supplied to the
laundry-receiving device, and a course requiring the steam to be
supplied to both the drum and the laundry-receiving device.
19. The method according to claim 17, wherein at the step of d),
operation of the steam generation unit is controlled on the basis
of at least one of operation cycle, operation temperature, and
operation time.
20. The method according to claim 17, wherein the course is at
least one of a course requiring the steam to be supplied to the
drum, a course requiring the steam to be supplied to an outside of
the washing or drying machine, and a course requiring the steam to
be supplied to both the drum and the outside of the washing or
drying machine.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a laundry device, and more
particularly, to a washing machine which comprises a steam
generation unit installed therein to generate and supply steam to
an outside of the washing machine or to a laundry-receiving device
to remove wrinkles on laundry using the steam supplied from the
steam generation unit, and a method for controlling the same.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Generally, a washing apparatus is an apparatus to perform
various operations related to laundry, and includes a washing
machine to wash the laundry, a drying machine to dry wet laundry,
and the like.
[0003] The drying machine has a problem in that, since it is
operated in a state wherein various kinds of laundry are
collectively input thereto, entangled laundry cannot be efficiently
dried.
[0004] In addition, when laundry is stored for a long period of
time in such a conventional drying machine, wrinkles are severely
created on the clothes, inevitably causing inconvenience of
ironing. Thus, it is impossible for the conventional drying machine
to store the laundry therein.
[0005] Recently, it is needed to provide an improved drying machine
which has an enlarged drying capacity while enabling the laundry to
be stored for a long period of time therein. In this regard,
combination type drying machines disclosed in US Patent Application
Publication Nos. US 2004-0194339 A1 and US 2004-0154194 A1 comprise
a separate drying cabinet in a drum type drying machine.
[0006] The combination type drying machine as described above is a
drying apparatus, which is constituted by combining a general drum
type drying machine having a rotational drum, and a drying cabinet
mounted on the drying machine such that hot wind is supplied
thereto, and having a space for receiving various kinds of
laundry.
[0007] The drying cabinet is supplied with hot wind from the drum
type drying machine, and uses the hot wind to dry or store the
laundry therein for a long period of time.
[0008] However, since the drying cabinet of the combination type
drying machine is mounted on the drum type drying machine, it is
necessary to limit the height of the drying cabinet. Thus, it is
difficult for the drying cabinet to receive the laundry in a hung
state, as such the drying cabinet must be implemented using
shelves.
[0009] Of course, the drum type drying machine described above is
provided with a separate space to receive long laundry.
[0010] However, since the space must be formed in such a manner
that the space is depressed into an inner space at one side of the
drum type drying machine, the drum type drying machine has a
problem in that it has a substantially increased width in a
longitudinal direction.
[0011] In addition, since typical drum type washing machines (for
example, drum type washing machine, a drum type drying machine,
etc.) have a low height, they are used with its bottom supported by
a separate support.
[0012] However, in this case, the space of the washing machine is
wasted by a height of the support.
[0013] Of course, it has been suggested in the prior art to employ
an inner space of the support as an accommodation space.
[0014] However, since the accommodation space is not frequently
used, it has a low effectiveness.
[0015] In addition, an apparatus has not been developed in the
prior art, which can realize a water washing effect for previously
worn clothes via a simple operation course even when washing the
once worn clothes without using water. Thus, if a user wants to
wear neat laundry, it is necessary to iron the laundry, causing
inconvenience and the user to be dissatisfied. If the laundry is
dried in the conventional drying machine, the laundry is seriously
wrinkled in the drying machine, thereby requiring troublesome
ironing operation on the laundry.
[0016] Furthermore, in the prior art, there is no such an apparatus
which employs steam in order to realize the water washing effect
for the once worn clothes.
[0017] Thus, there is a need to provide an apparatus, which can
perform water washing in the case where the laundry are very dirty,
and can realize the water washing effect via a simple operation
course using the steam in the case where the laundry is not
seriously soiled and do not require the water washing.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
[0018] An object of the present invention devised to solve the
problem lies on an improved washing machine, which employs steam to
remove wrinkles on laundry while providing sterilization effect to
the laundry.
[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide the
washing machine, which comprises a refresh part only to perform
refresh operation for the laundry, and selectively supplies the
steam to the refresh part or to a drum in which washing (or drying)
operation is performed.
[0020] Further object of the present invention is to provide the
washing machine, which can supply the steam to an external device
such as a laundry-refreshing device, which is separately installed
at the outside. Since a user can employ a steam generation unit in
the washing machine for other purposes of the external device, the
effectiveness of washing machine is improved.
[0021] The objects of the present invention can be achieved by
providing a washing machine, comprising: a steam generation unit to
generate steam; and an steam outside-supplying pipe connected with
the steam generation unit to supply the steam to an outside of the
washing machine.
[0022] The steam generation unit can supply the steam into a drum
in which washing or drying operation is performed, or to the
outside of the washing machine through the steam outside-supplying
pipe. Preferably, the washing machine has a button to select steam
supply to the outside, and controls to allow the steam to be
supplied to the outside through the steam outside-supplying pipe
instead of the drum when the steam supply to the outside is
selected.
[0023] Preferably, the steam outside-supplying pipe is able to be
drawn out from the washing machine. The steam outside-supplying
pipe has a sufficient length, and is received in the washing
machine so that the steam outside-supplying pipe can be easily
drawn out from the washing machine by simply pulling out the steam
outside-supplying pipe from the washing machine.
[0024] Preferably, the steam outside-supplying pipe has an
adjustable length so that the steam outside-supplying pipe is
extended, and drawn to the outside when drawing the steam
outside-supplying pipe to the outside. To this end, at least a
portion of the steam outside-supplying pipe may be formed of a
corrugated pipe, which has an adjustable length like a bellows
pipe. Alternatively, the steam outside-supplying pipe may have a
telescopic shape so as to be adjustable in length.
[0025] In addition, in order to supply the steam to the outside, a
mounting part is formed on a cabinet which defines an appearance of
the washing machine, and has one end connected with the steam
outside-supplying pipe and the other end with which a separate
outer connection pipe is detachably connected from the outside.
[0026] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a washing machine, comprising: a steam generation
unit to generate steam; a laundry-receiving device having a space
to receive laundry when unfolded; and a laundry-steam supplying
pipe connected with the steam generation unit to supply the steam
to the laundry-receiving device.
[0027] As such, the washing machine comprises the laundry-receiving
device, and is adapted to supply the steam from the steam
generation unit to the laundry-receiving device.
[0028] The laundry-receiving device has a foldable structure, and
is thus received in a folded state inside or outside the washing
machine when it is not used.
[0029] The laundry-receiving device may comprise a base; a cover to
cover the base; and a body between the base and the cover to
provide the space for receiving the laundry when unfolded.
[0030] When the laundry-receiving device is not used, the body is
received in the folded state within the base, covered by the cover,
and received in this state.
[0031] Preferably, the laundry-receiving device comprises an
opening and closing structure in order to allow easy input and
withdrawal of the laundry. For example, the laundry-receiving
device may have a zipper structure formed on the body.
[0032] Preferably, the body is formed of a flexible material, and
comprises a supporting structure in order to allow the body to be
maintained in the folded state. The supporting structure may be a
link structure or a telescopic structure. The supporting structure
may be connected between the base and the cover such that the cover
is separated from the base and supported thereby to allow the body
to be maintained in the folded state.
[0033] In addition, preferably, the laundry-receiving device is
adapted to receive the laundry in a hung state therein. When the
laundry is laid on a shelf-shaped member, effect of removing the
wrinkles with the steam can be lowered. Thus, it is desirable to
have the laundry-receiving device such that the laundry is received
in the laundry-receiving device while being hung on a hanger
thereof.
[0034] Although the laundry-steam supplying pipe can be secured to
the cover or the base, it is desirable that the laundry-steam
supplying pipe be detachably connected therewith.
[0035] Preferably, the washing machine has an accommodation space
defined therein to accommodate and receive the laundry-receiving
device described above. For example, the washing machine may be
provided with a structure which is capable of being input thereto
or withdrawn therefrom like a drawer to accept and preserve the
laundry-receiving device.
[0036] At this time, the base is integrally formed with a support
having the drawer structure.
[0037] The laundry-steam supplying pipe has an adjustable
length.
[0038] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a washing machine, comprising: a steam
generation unit to generate steam; a drum to receive laundry to be
washed or dried; a laundry-receiving device having a space to
receive the laundry when unfolded; a laundry-steam supplying pipe
having a steam-laundry valve controlled by a controller to supply
the steam to the laundry-receiving device; and a drum-steam
supplying pipe having a steam-drum valve controlled by the
controller to supply the steam to the drum.
[0039] The controller controls the steam-laundry valve and the
steam-drum valve to allow the steam to be supplied to the drum or
to the laundry-receiving device.
[0040] The steam-drum valve and the steam-laundry valve are
solenoid valves.
[0041] Although the laundry-steam supplying pipe and the drum-steam
supplying pipe can be provided separately, it is desirable that a
single pipe be branched to the laundry-steam supplying pipe and the
drum-steam supplying pipe. In addition, the steam-laundry valve and
the steam-drum valve are integrated into a single valve at a
branched portion of the single pipe. Preferably, the integral valve
is a three-way valve. With this structure, it is possible to
selectively supply the steam only to the drum, to the
laundry-receiving device, or to both the drum and the
laundry-receiving device.
[0042] The pipes may have a check valve installed therein to
prevent reverse flow of the steam, if necessary.
[0043] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present
invention, a method for controlling the washing machine comprises:
a) selecting a course requiring steam; b) determining an object to
be supplied with the steam according to the selected course; c)
controlling a valve of a steam supplying pipe to supply the steam
to the determined object; and d) generating and supplying the steam
through control of a steam generation unit.
[0044] In this structure, a user selects a predetermined operation
course using a button on a control panel, and determines an object
to be supplied with the steam if the selected course is a course
requiring the steam, so that steam is generated and supplied to the
object.
[0045] For example, if the selected course is a washing course
which employs the steam, the controller determines to supply the
steam to the drum, and controls the steam generation unit to
generate the steam and the valve to allow the steam to be supplied
to the drum.
[0046] In the washing machine comprising the laundry-receiving
device, the course may be at least one of a course requiring steam
supply to the drum, a course requiring the steam supply to the
laundry-receiving device, and a course requiring the steam supply
to both the drum and the laundry-receiving device.
[0047] In the washing machine capable of supplying the steam to the
outside, the course may be at least one of a course requiring steam
supply to the drum, a course requiring the steam supply to the
outside of the washing machine, and a course requiring the steam
supply to both the drum and the outside of the washing machine.
[0048] Preferably, operation of the steam generation unit is
controlled on the basis of at least one of operation cycle,
operation temperature, and operation time. For example, the steam
generation unit can be operated for a preset period of time, or
operated with reference to a preset temperature. In addition,
preferably, the temperature is an inner temperature of the tub.
[0049] According to the present invention, the steam can be used
for various operations in addition to washing or drying operation
within the drum. As a result, it is possible to enhance
effectiveness of the washing machine while providing various
functions.
[0050] According to the present invention, since the washing
machine comprises the separate laundry-steam supplying pipe, and
removes wrinkles on the laundry by supplying the steam to the
laundry received therein, the washing machine can provide a water
washing effect without using water. Furthermore, the effect of
water washing can be further enhanced by using a deodorant or
aromatic agent. In addition, when preserving out-of-season laundry
for a long period of time in the washing machine of the present
invention, it is possible to store the laundry with a good
condition while preventing the laundry from being dirtied. The
washing machine of the present invention provides convenience to
the user in that, if the user controls the washing machine to
supply the steam to the laundry-receiving device after taking off
and hanging clothes in the laundry-receiving device in the evening,
he or she can wear the clothes, which look like newly washed
clothes, the next morning.
[0051] Since it is possible to supply the steam from the steam
generation unit installed in the washing machine to the outside
through the steam outside-supplying pipe, the washing machine can
be applied to various uses. For example, the washing machine can
supply the steam to a refresh part at the outside, and provide
swelling and sterilizing effects for the laundry such as underwear,
which is desired to be washed with water, by supplying the steam to
the laundry. In addition, when the user employs a steam iron, it is
possible to use the steam of the washing machine. As such, the
steam generation unit of the washing machine can be applied to
various uses in addition to the above examples.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0052] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a
further understanding of the invention, illustrate embodiments of
the invention and together with the description serve to explain
the principle of the invention.
[0053] In the drawings:
[0054] FIG. 1 is a schematic side elevation illustrating a washing
machine in accordance with a first embodiment of the present
invention;
[0055] FIG. 2 is a schematic side elevation illustrating a
modification of the washing machine in accordance with the first
embodiment of the present invention;
[0056] FIG. 3 is a schematic side elevation illustrating
application of the washing machine in accordance with the first
embodiment of the present invention;
[0057] FIG. 4 is a schematic side elevation illustrating a washing
machine in accordance with a second embodiment of the present
invention;
[0058] FIG. 5 is a schematic side elevation illustrating a
modification of the washing machine in accordance with the second
embodiment of the present invention;
[0059] FIG. 6 is a schematic side elevation illustrating
application of the washing machine in accordance with the second
embodiment of the present invention;
[0060] FIG. 7 is a schematic side elevation illustrating a washing
machine in accordance with a third embodiment of the present
invention;
[0061] FIG. 8 is a schematic side elevation illustrating a
modification of the washing machine in accordance with the third
embodiment of the present invention;
[0062] FIG. 9 is a schematic side elevation illustrating
application of the washing machine in accordance with the third
embodiment of the present invention;
[0063] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an
appearance of a washing machine in accordance with a fourth
embodiment of the present invention;
[0064] FIG. 11 is a schematic side elevation illustrating the
washing machine in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0065] FIGS. 12 and 14 are schematic perspective views illustrating
application of the washing machine in accordance with the fourth
embodiment of the present invention;
[0066] FIGS. 13 and 15 are schematic side elevations illustrating
application of the washing machine in accordance with the fourth
embodiment of the present invention;
[0067] FIG. 16 illustrates a washing machine in accordance with yet
another embodiment of the present invention; and
[0068] FIG. 17 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for
controlling the washing machine of the present invention.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0069] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred
embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are
illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 15.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 1, a drum type washing machine will be
described as one example of a washing machine according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention. The washing machine
of the present invention generally comprises a body 110, a tub 120,
a drum 130, a steam generation unit, and an steam outside-supplying
pipe 180.
[0071] The body 110 defines an appearance of the washing machine,
and is formed at a front side thereof with an input port 111
[0072] The body 110 has a door 140 mounted on the input port 111 to
open and close the input port 111, and a rim 112 mounted around an
inner periphery of the input port 111 to seal between the door and
the input port 111.
[0073] The body 110 is provided with a water supplying pipe 113 to
supply water into the tub 120.
[0074] The tub 120 is provided in the body 110 in a state of being
supported therein.
[0075] The drum 130 is rotatably installed in the tub 120 such that
the drum 130 has an opening facing the input port 111 of the body
110.
[0076] The steam generation unit serves to generate supply steam.
According to the present invention, the washing machine comprises
at least one steam generation unit.
[0077] After being generated by the steam generation unit, steam is
supplied into the drum 130 through a pipe 160.
[0078] The steam generation unit is installed in the washing
machine to generate and supply the steam into the drum 130 by
heating water with hot air having a high temperature.
[0079] The pipe 160 used for supplying the steam into the drum
comprises an injection nozzle 170.
[0080] The pipe 160 further comprises a first valve 161 provided at
a passage of the pipe to selectively open and close the passage.
The injection nozzle 170 is adapted to allow efficient injection of
the steam, and is installed to the washing machine while
penetrating the rim 112 such that the tip of the injection nozzle
170 faces an inner space of the drum 130.
[0081] The steam outside-supplying pipe 180 enables the steam
generated by the steam generation unit to be supplied to a separate
external device outside the washing machine instead of being
supplied into the drum 130.
[0082] The steam outside-supplying pipe 180 has one end connected
with the steam generation unit, and the other end which can be
selectively drawn out from the body 110.
[0083] The other end of the steam outside-supplying pipe 180 is
adapted to be drawn out through at least one of a front surface, a
peripheral surface, an upper surface, a rear surface and a bottom
surface of the body 110.
[0084] According to a first embodiment of the present invention,
the other end of the steam outside-supplying pipe 180 is drawn out
through a lower end of the front side of the body 110.
[0085] Of course, when the washing machine further comprises a
support 190 which covers a predetermined accommodation space
defined below the bottom surface of the washing machine as shown in
FIG. 2, the other end of the steam outside-supplying pipe 180 may
be adapted to be drawn out to the outside after sequentially
passing through the bottom surface of the body 110 and the support
190.
[0086] In addition, the steam outside-supplying pipe 180 is
preferably provided with a second valve 181 to selectively open and
close the passage thereof.
[0087] At this time, the second valve 181 is operated to close the
passage of the steam outside-supplying pipe 180 if it is not
necessary to supply the steam through the steam outside-supplying
pipe 180.
[0088] Meanwhile, it is more preferable that the steam
outside-supplying pipe 180 has an adjustable length.
[0089] This structure is for the purpose of enabling the washing
machine and a device requiring the steam supply to be connected
with each other even if they are separated a predetermined distance
from each other.
[0090] To this end, according to the first embodiment of the
present invention, a steam discharge port of the steam
outside-supplying pipe 180 is formed of a stretchable corrugated
pipe 182 in order to have the adjustable length, as shown in FIG.
1.
[0091] Of course, a steam discharge port 182 of the steam
outside-supplying pipe 180 may be formed of a telescopic pipe which
consists of multiple parts overlapped with each other in order to
have the adjustable length.
[0092] If the body 110 is provided with the support 190 having a
predetermined accommodation space below the bottom surface thereof,
and the steam discharge port 182 of the steam outside-supplying
pipe 180 is exposed to the outside after passing through the
support 190, although not shown in the drawings, the steam
discharge port 182 of the steam outside-supplying pipe 180 may be
formed of a hose having a sufficient length such that the steam
outside-supplying pipe 180 can be accommodated in the support
190.
[0093] That is, with this configuration, when the steam discharge
port 182 of the steam outside-supplying pipe 180 is drawn out to
the outside, a portion of the steam discharge port 182 accommodated
in the support 190 is drawn out instead of changing the length of
the steam discharge port 182.
[0094] A steam supplying process using the washing machine
according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be
described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.
[0095] First, when a user wants to supply steam to a separate
external device denoted by reference numeral 500, the steam
discharge port 182 of the steam outside-supplying pipe 180 having a
portion thereof exposed to the outside from a front lower end of
the body 110 in an initial state as shown in FIG. 1 is drawn out to
the outside, and connected with the external device 500.
[0096] At this time, the steam discharge port 182 of the steam
outside-supplying pipe 180 formed of the corrugated pipe is
gradually stretched from a folded state by a distance to be drawn
out to the outside, and is then connected with the external device
500. This state is shown in FIG. 3.
[0097] In this state, when the washing machine is controlled to
allow the steam to be supplied into the steam outside-supplying
pipe 180, heat generated from the heater 150 constituting the steam
generation unit evaporates water in the steam generation unit, and
generates the steam. Then, the steam flows through the pipe 160 or
the steam outside-supplying pipe 180.
[0098] At this time, the first valve 161 of the passage of the pipe
160 is operated to maintain a closed state of the passage, while
the second valve 181 of the passage of the steam outside-supplying
pipe 180 is operated to maintain an open state of the passage.
[0099] Thus, the steam generated by the steam generation unit flows
only through the steam outside-supplying pipe 180, and is then
supplied to the external device 500 so as to be used in the
external device 500 according to its purpose.
[0100] For example, if the external device 500 is an apparatus for
refreshing the laundry, the steam is used for the purpose of the
apparatus. On the other hand, if the external device 500 is a dish
washer or a dish dryer, the steam is used for sterilization of
dishes, and if the external device 500 is a cleaner, the steam is
used for sterilization or cleaning.
[0101] Meanwhile, it should be noted that the configuration of the
steam outside-supplying pipe 180 according to the present invention
is not limited to the configuration of the first embodiment wherein
the steam outside-supplying pipe 180 is drawn out itself, and
connected with the external device 500.
[0102] In other words, if the external device 500 has a separate
outer connection pipe to receive the steam, the steam
outside-supplying pipe 180 may have configuration which enables the
separate outer connection pipe to be connected thereto.
[0103] In this regard, a second embodiment of the present invention
provides a washing machine which is adapted to permit mounting of
the outer connection pipe, which will be described in detail with
reference to FIG. 4.
[0104] First, the washing machine according to the second
embodiment generally comprises a body 210 having a mounting part
214, a drum 230, a steam generation unit, and an steam
outside-supplying pipe 280.
[0105] The mounting part 214 is formed of a pipe configured so as
to allow the outer connection pipe to be connected thereto from the
outside.
[0106] The mounting part 214 is formed on at least one of a front
surface, a peripheral surface, an upper surface, a rear surface and
a bottom surface of the body 210. The body 210 may have one or more
mounting parts 214.
[0107] According to the second embodiment, the mounting part 214 is
formed at a lower side of the front surface of the body 210.
[0108] Of course, if the body 210 is further provided with a
support 290 below the bottom surface thereof as shown in FIG. 5,
the mounting part 214 may be formed at the front side of the
support 290.
[0109] In addition, the mounting part 214 may be completely opened
as suggested in this embodiment. However, although not shown in the
drawing, it is more desirable that the body 210 have a separate
cover on the mounting part 214 to open the mounting part 214 only
when the mounting part 214 is used.
[0110] Additionally, the steam outside-supplying pipe 280 serves to
supply the steam generated by the steam generation unit to the
mounting part 214.
[0111] The steam outside-supplying pipe 280 has one end connected
with the steam generation unit, and the other end connected with
the mounting part 214 of the body 210, with which the outer
connection pipe 510 is connected from the outside.
[0112] At this time, the steam outside-supplying pipe 280 is
preferably provided with a second valve 281 to selectively open and
close the passage thereof as in the first embodiment.
[0113] The drum 230 and the steam generation unit of the washing
machine according to the second embodiment have the same
configuration as those of the first embodiment.
[0114] Operation of the washing machine according to the second
embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail as
follows.
[0115] First, when the user wants to supply steam to a separate
external device denoted by reference numeral 500, the separate
outer connection pipe 510 of the external device 500 is mounted on
the mounting part 214 of the body 210 as shown in FIG. 6 from an
initial state as shown in FIG. 4.
[0116] In this state, when the washing machine is controlled to
allow the steam to be supplied into the steam outside-supplying
pipe 280, heat generated from the heater 250 constituting the steam
generation unit evaporates water in the steam generation unit, and
generates the steam. Then, the steam flows through the pipe 260
connected with the drum, and the steam outside-supplying pipe
280.
[0117] At this time, the first valve 161 provided at the passage of
the pipe 260 is operated to maintain a closed state of the passage,
while the second valve 281 provided at the passage of the steam
outside-supplying pipe 280 is operated to maintain an open state of
the passage.
[0118] Thus, the steam generated by the steam generation unit flows
only through the steam outside-supplying pipe 280, and is then
supplied to the external device 500 through the outer connection
pipe 510 mounted on the mounting part 214 so as to be used in the
external device 500 according to its purpose.
[0119] Meanwhile, the external device in the first and second
embodiments of the present invention can be various apparatuses
such as a cleaner, a dish washer, a dish drier, a humidifier, etc.
as well as the washing machine and the drier.
[0120] A third embodiment of the present invention provides a
washing machine which comprises a washing part 310, a refresh part
320, and a laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 as shown in FIG. 7.
[0121] Here, the washing part 310 is a part in which washing and/or
drying of laundry is performed as in a drum type washing machine, a
combined drying and washing machine, or a laundry drying
machine.
[0122] Here, a refresh operation is operation of removing the
wrinkles from the laundry using steam having a high
temperature.
[0123] The refresh part 320 is adapted to perform only the refresh
operation for the laundry.
[0124] The refresh part 320 generally comprises a base 321, a cover
322 to selectively cover an upper surface of the base 321, and a
body 323 connected between the base 321 and the cover 322 such that
the body 323 is spread to define a laundry-receiving space for the
refresh operation when the cover 322 is opened.
[0125] Of course, the refresh part 320 may further comprise an
additional steam generation unit in the base 321.
[0126] In addition, as in the first embodiment of the present
invention, the laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 is constructed such
that one end of the laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 is connected
with the steam generation unit of the washing part 310, and a steam
discharge port 332 at the other side of the laundry-steam supplying
pipe 330 is drawn out to the outside of the washing part 310 so as
to be connected with the refresh part 320.
[0127] Preferably, the steam discharge port 332 of the
laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 is detachably connected with the
refresh part 320 by selection of the user. This structure is
adapted for the purpose of allowing the refresh part 320 to be used
independent of the washing part 310.
[0128] In particular, the tip of the steam discharge port 332 of
the laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 may be connected with one of
the cover 322 and the base 321 of the refresh part 320.
[0129] In this embodiment, the steam discharge port 332 of the
laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 is connected with the upper
surface of the cover 322 constituting the refresh part 320. To this
end, the upper surface of the cover 322 is formed with a coupling
hole 322a such that the tip of the steam discharge port 332
penetrates, and engages with the coupling hole 322a.
[0130] Most preferably, the steam discharge port 332 of the
laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 is formed of a corrugated pipe.
182 which has an adjustable length, as shown in the drawings, such
that the steam discharge port 332 of the laundry-steam supplying
pipe 330 is easily coupled to the refresh part 320 irrespective of
a distance therebetween.
[0131] In addition, the laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 is
preferably provided with a steam-laundry valve 331 to selectively
open and close the passage thereof as for the second valve of the
first and second embodiments.
[0132] Operation of the washing machine according to the third
embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail as
follows.
[0133] First, when the user wants to perform the refresh operation
for laundry using the washing machine of this embodiment, the cover
322 of the refresh part 320 is opened from the base 321 as shown in
FIG. 8 from a state as shown in FIG. 7, thereby allowing the body
323 to be spread.
[0134] At this time, the steam discharge port 332 of the
laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 penetrates, and engages with the
coupling hole 322a formed on the upper surface of the cover
322.
[0135] In this state, after inputting the laundry desired to be
refreshed into the body 323 of the refresh part 320, the steam
generation unit is operated.
[0136] Then, steam is generated by the steam generation unit, and
supplied into the cover 322 of the refresh part 320 through the
steam discharge port 332 of the laundry-steam supplying pipe
330.
[0137] As a result, the steam passes through the cover 322, and is
supplied to the laundry received in the body 323 while flowing
within the body 323, thereby refreshing the laundry.
[0138] Meanwhile, among the components of the washing machine
according to the third embodiment, it is not necessary to directly
connect the laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 with the refresh part
320.
[0139] That is, as in the configuration of the washing machine
according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the washing
machine may comprise a mounting part 311 formed on a cabinet, and a
separate outer connection pipe 324 connected with the mounting part
311 to supply the steam to the outside, in which the steam
discharge port 332 of the laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 is
connected with the mounting part 311.
[0140] Meanwhile, although the refresh part 320 is described as
being independent of the washing part 310 as in the third
embodiment, it may be provided as a component dependent on the
washing part 310.
[0141] In other words, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, if the washing
part 310 is further provided at a lower portion with a support 312,
which has a predetermined accommodation space and is capable of
being drawn out, the refresh part 320 can be integrated into the
accommodation space of the support 312, or can be detachably
installed thereto such that it is detached or mounted thereto
according to a user's selection.
[0142] A fourth embodiment of the present invention provides a
washing machine in which a refresh part 320 is integrated into the
support 312. Reference numeral 313 represents a drawer type body
for drawing out or inserting the support 312.
[0143] In particular, when the refresh part 320 is mounted in the
accommodation space of the support 312 as described above, the
steam discharge port 332 of the laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 is
connected with the base 321 constituting the refresh part 320.
[0144] At this time, it is most desirable that the steam discharge
port 332 of the refresh part 320 be formed of a corrugated pipe,
which has an adjustable length, such that when the support 312 is
drawn out in order to use the refresh part 320, the steam discharge
port 332 of the laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 is changed in
length by a distance that the support 312 is drawn out.
[0145] Thus, when the user wants to perform the refresh operation
(for example, removal of wrinkles, sterilization, removal of odor)
for laundry using the washing machine of this embodiment, the
refresh part 320 is drawn out from the body 313 supporting the
bottom surface of the washing part 310 in a state as shown in FIGS.
10 and 11 so as to be exposes to the outside as shown in FIGS. 12
and 13, and the cover 322 of the refresh part 320 is then opened
from the base 321, allowing the body to be spread, as shown in
FIGS. 14 and 15.
[0146] At this time, the steam discharge port 332 of the
laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 is extended by the drawn out
distance of the support 312 while maintaining connection with the
base 321 of the refresh part 320.
[0147] In this state, after inputting the laundry desired to be
refreshed into the body 323 of the refresh part 320, the steam
generation unit is operated.
[0148] Then, steam is generated by the steam generation unit, and
supplied into the base 321 of the refresh part 320 through the
steam discharge port 332 of the laundry-steam supplying pipe
330.
[0149] As a result, the steam passes through the base 321, and is
supplied to the laundry received in the body 323 while rising into
the body 323, thereby refreshing the laundry.
[0150] At this time, when the steam is supplied into the drum, the
steam is generated by the steam generation unit, and flows to the
drum through a drum-steam supplying pipe 260.
[0151] FIG. 16 shows yet another embodiment of the present
invention. In this embodiment, one pipe is divided into a
drum-steam supplying pipe 260 and a laundry-steam supplying pipe
330 and provided with an integration valve 431 where the pipe is
divided.
[0152] The integration valve 431 is a three-way valve. With this
structure, it is possible to selectively supply the steam only to
the drum, to the laundry-receiving device, or to both the drum and
the laundry-receiving device.
[0153] Operation of the washing machine according to the present
invention will be described with reference to FIG. 17 in which the
washing machine shown in FIG. 15 will be described as an
example.
[0154] First, a controller receives a selection signal for an
operation course which requires steam (S110). For example, the
controller receives a selection signal corresponding to an
operation item, which requires the steam, through a control panel
from a user.
[0155] The operation course is at least one of a course which
requires steam supply to the drum, a course which requires steam
supply to the laundry-receiving device, and a course which requires
steam supply to both the drum and the laundry-receiving device. The
control panel is provided with selection buttons respectively
corresponding to the courses to allow the user to select any one of
the courses.
[0156] In other words, the operation item includes at least one of
operation which comprises algorithm to supply the steam to the
washing part 310, and operation which comprises algorithm to supply
the steam to the refresh part 320.
[0157] The operation with the algorithm to supply the steam to the
washing part 310 is one of tub cleaning operation, washing
operation, rinsing operation, drying operation, and sterilizing
operation for laundry using the steam.
[0158] The operation with the algorithm to supply the steam to the
refresh part 320 is the refresh operation for the laundry using the
steam.
[0159] Of course, it is possible to perform operation which
comprises algorithm to supply the steam to both the washing part
310 and the refresh part 320. In this case, the refresh operation
is selected along with one of the tub cleaning operation, washing
operation, rinsing operation, drying operation and sterilizing
operation. That is, in this case, the steam requiring operation is
performed in both the refresh part 320 and the washing part
310.
[0160] Then, if it is determined that one of the operation items is
selected by the user according to the process described above, the
controller determines a steam requiring part based on the operation
item selected by the user (S120).
[0161] At this time, the steam requiring part is at least one of
the washing part 310 and the refresh part 320.
[0162] That is, if one of the tub cleaning operation, washing
operation, rinsing operation, drying operation and sterilizing
operation for the laundry is selected, the washing part 310 is
determined as the steam requiring part, and if the refresh
operation is selected, the refresh part 320 is determined as the
steam requiring part.
[0163] If the refresh operation is selected along with one of tub
cleaning operation, washing operation, rinsing operation, drying
operation and sterilizing operation for the laundry, both the
refresh part 320 and the washing part 310 are determined as the
steam requiring part.
[0164] After determining the steam requiring part, the controller
controls the valves 261 and 331 to allow the steam to be supplied
only to the steam requiring part.
[0165] Specifically, if the washing part 310 is determined as the
steam requiring part, the controller controls the steam-drum-valve
261 provided to the drum-steam supplying pipe 260 to open the
passage of the drum-steam supplying pipe 260 while controlling the
steam-laundry-valve 331 provided to the laundry-steam supplying
pipe 330 to close the passage of the laundry-steam supplying pipe
330 (S130).
[0166] On the contrary, if the refresh part 320 is determined as
the steam requiring part, the controller controls the
steam-laundry-valve 331 of the laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 to
open the passage of the laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 while
controlling the steam-drum-valve 261 of the drum-steam supplying
pipe 260 to close the passage of the drum-steam supplying pipe 260
(S140).
[0167] If both the refresh part 320 and the washing part 310 are
determined as the steam requiring part, the controller controls
both the steam-drum-valve 261 of the drum-steam supplying pipe 260
and the steam-laundry-valve 331 of the laundry-steam supplying pipe
330 to open the passages of the laundry-steam supplying pipe 330
and the drum-steam supplying pipe 260 (S150).
[0168] After controlling the respective valves 261 and 331, the
controller controls the steam generation unit to generate steam
(S160), and to supply the steam to the drum-steam supplying pipe
260 or the laundry-steam supplying pipe 330 (S170).
[0169] Operation control of the steam generation unit is performed
on the basis of at least an operating cycle, that is, a heating
cycle of the heater to generate the steam, an operating
temperature, that is, a temperature of the heater to determine the
temperature of the steam, and an operating time, that is, a heating
time of the heater until heating operation of the heater to perform
an associated operation is completed.
[0170] Finally, the washing part 310 and/or the refresh part 320
perform the desired operation (tub cleaning operation, washing
operation, rinsing operation, drying operation, sterilizing
operation, and/or refresh operation) with the steam supplied as
described above (S180).
[0171] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made in the present invention
without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus,
it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications
and variations of this invention provided they come within the
scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0172] The present invention relates to a laundry device, and more
particularly, to a washing machine which comprises a steam
generation unit installed therein to generate and supply steam to
an outside of the washing machine or to a laundry-receiving device
to remove wrinkles on laundry by using the steam supplied from the
steam generation unit, and a method for controlling operation
thereof, and a method for controlling the same.
[0173] According to the present invention, the steam can be used
for various operations in addition to washing or drying within the
drum. As a result, it is possible to enhance effectiveness of the
washing machine while providing various functions.
[0174] According to the present invention, since the washing
machine comprises the separate laundry-steam supplying pipe, and
removes wrinkles on the laundry by supplying the steam to the
laundry received therein, the washing machine can provide a water
washing effect without using water. Furthermore, the water washing
effect can be further enhanced by using a deodorant or aromatic
agent. In addition, when preserving out-of-season laundry for a
long period of time in the washing machine of the present
invention, it is possible to store the laundry with a good
condition while preventing the laundry from being dirtied. The
washing machine of the present invention provides convenience to
the user in that, if the user controls the washing machine to
supply the steam to the laundry-receiving device after taking off
and hanging clothes in the laundry-receiving device in the evening,
he or she can wear the clothes, which look like newly washed
clothes, the next morning.
[0175] Since it is possible to supply the steam from the steam
generation unit installed in the washing machine to the outside
through the steam outside-supplying pipe, the washing machine can
be applied to various uses. For example, the washing machine can
supply the steam to a refresh part at the outside, and provide
swelling and sterilizing effects for the laundry such as underwear,
which is desired to be washed with water, by supplying the steam to
the laundry. In addition, when the user employs a steam iron, it is
possible to use the steam of the washing machine. As such, the
steam generation unit of the washing machine can be applied to
various uses in addition to the above examples.
* * * * *