APPARATUS FOR TREATING LAUNDRY

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a laundry treating apparatus.

BACKGROUND ART

A laundry treating apparatus is an apparatus that receives laundry, such as clothes and bedding, in a drum to perform treatment necessary for the laundry, such as removal of contaminants from the laundry or drying of the laundry.

When a laundry treating apparatus is designed to remove contaminants from laundry, the laundry treating apparatus may perform processes such as washing, rinsing, dehydration, and drying. The laundry treating apparatus may include a cabinet defining the external appearance thereof, a tub accommodated in the cabinet, a drum rotatably mounted in the tub and configured to receive laundry, and a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the interior of the drum. If the drum is rotated by a motor in the state in which wash water is supplied to the laundry received in the drum, dirt on the laundry may be removed by friction with the drum and the wash water.

When a laundry treating apparatus is designed to dry laundry, the laundry treating apparatus may supply dry air to the laundry to remove moisture from the laundry. The laundry treating apparatus may include a cabinet, a drum rotatably disposed in the cabinet, and a heating device configured to heat or dry air supplied to the laundry. As the dry air is supplied to the laundry received in the drum, moisture in the laundry may be evaporated and removed by the dry air, and thus water may be removed from the laundry.

A laundry treating apparatus provided with multiple treating apparatuses is disclosed in related art document KR 10-2008-0021921 A1. The laundry treating apparatus is configured such that a washing machine is disposed at an upper position and a drying machine is disposed at a lower position. In addition, each of the washing machine and the drying machine is structured to have an operation unit and a display unit.

That is, the laundry treating apparatus disclosed in the above related art document is configured such that each of the multiple treating apparatuses, which are provided separately from each other, has an operation unit and a display unit. In this case, however, a user needs to individually check the states of the multiple treating apparatuses and to individually operate the multiple treating apparatuses. In addition, it may be inconvenient for the user to operate the multiple treating apparatuses in association with each other.

Therefore, in a laundry treating apparatus provided with multiple treating apparatuses, it is an important task to improve user convenience in checking the operational states of the multiple treating apparatuses or operating the multiple treating apparatuses and to secure an efficient arrangement relationship between components of the multiple treating apparatuses and a stable and effective coupling relationship between the multiple treating apparatuses.

DISCLOSURE

Technical Task

In the case in which a control panel capable of controlling all of multiple treating apparatuses constituting a laundry treating apparatus is provided, a first button for activating a user interface for control of a washing machine, a first light-emitting element (e.g., LED) for indicating the activation state of the first button, a second button for activating a user interface for control of a drying machine, and a second light-emitting element for indicating the activation state of the second button are provided. However, because two buttons are provided in order to indicate the activation states of the treating apparatuses, many physical display spaces are required, and because two light-emitting elements are also required, manufacturing costs are increased. An aspect of the present disclosure is directed to providing a laundry treating apparatus capable of reducing the number of physical display devices for indicating the activation states of the treating apparatuses, thereby providing a simple and clear design, and capable of reducing the number of light-emitting elements, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

In the case in which a user interface is provided at a control panel capable of controlling all of multiple treating apparatuses constituting a laundry treating apparatus, an aspect of the present disclosure is directed to providing a laundry treating apparatus capable of implementing a simple user interface and providing an interior effect when placed in an installation environment.

In the case in which a user interface is provided at a control panel capable of controlling all of multiple treating apparatuses constituting a laundry treating apparatus, an aspect of the present disclosure is directed to providing a highly intuitive laundry treating apparatus capable of displaying an activated user interface on a touch display and enabling a user to visually recognize the treating apparatus corresponding to the activated user interface.

In the case in which a user interface is provided at a control panel capable of controlling all of multiple treating apparatuses constituting a laundry treating apparatus, the present disclosure provides a layout structure capable of reducing erroneous recognition of a touch input due to moisture.

The aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other aspects not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

Technical Solutions

The present disclosure provides a laundry treating apparatus. In an embodiment, the laundry treating apparatus includes a washing machine including a washing machine front panel provided on a front side thereof and a first drum provided therein to receive laundry, a drying machine disposed on the washing machine, the drying machine including a drying machine front panel provided on a front side thereof and a second drum provided therein to receive laundry, and a control panel provided between the washing machine front panel and the drying machine front panel, the control panel being configured to provide a user interface (UI) of at least one of the washing machine or the drying machine, wherein the control panel includes a flat panel display configured to display one of a washing machine operation UI for operation of the washing machine and a drying machine operation UI for operation of the drying machine and a switching button. If input is received from the switching button in the state in which the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the flat panel display, the flat panel display displays the drying machine operation UI, and if input is received from the switching button in the state in which the drying machine operation UI is displayed on the flat panel display, the flat panel display displays the washing machine operation UI.

In an embodiment, when both the washing machine and the drying machine are in the on state, the switching button may be activated.

In an embodiment, when at least one of the washing machine or the drying machine is in the off state, the switching button may be deactivated.

In an embodiment, in the state in which one of the washing machine and the drying machine is in operation, when the remaining one of the washing machine and the drying machine is turned on, the switching button may be activated.

A laundry treating apparatus in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure includes a washing machine including a washing machine front panel provided on a front side thereof and a first drum provided therein to receive laundry, a drying machine disposed on the washing machine, the drying machine including a drying machine front panel provided on a front side thereof and a second drum provided therein to receive laundry, and a control panel provided between the washing machine front panel and the drying machine front panel, the control panel being configured to provide a user interface (UI) of at least one of the washing machine or the drying machine, wherein the control panel includes a flat panel display configured to display one of a washing machine operation UI for operation of the washing machine and a drying machine operation UI for operation of the drying machine, and when both the washing machine and the drying machine are in the on state, the control panel is activated.

In an embodiment, the control panel may include a touch film located on a front surface of the flat panel display.

In an embodiment, the laundry treating apparatus is configured such that the flat panel display forms one of display units of the user interface (UI) and the touch film forms one of input units of the user interface (UI).

In an embodiment, the switching button may be disposed to occupy a different area from the touch film.

In an embodiment, the switching button may be provided as a touch sensor separated from the touch film.

In an embodiment, the control panel may include a power button configured to receive a user input to turn the washing machine or the drying machine on and off and an execution button configured to receive a user input to execute or pause operation of the washing machine or the drying machine, and the power button and the execution button may be provided as touch sensors separated from the touch film.

In an embodiment, a light-emitting element disposed at the rear of the switching button to indicate the activated state of the switching button may be further included.

In an embodiment, the light-emitting element may emit light in the activated state of the switching button.

In an embodiment, the light-emitting element may not emit light in the deactivated state of the switching button.

In an embodiment, when the flat panel display displays the remaining one of the washing machine operation UI and the drying machine operation UI in response to input of the switching button, if input is not received from a user for a preset time period or longer, the flat panel display may again display one of the washing machine operation UI and the drying machine operation UI.

In an embodiment, if a user input is not received for a preset time period or longer in the activated state of the switching button, the switching button may be deactivated.

In an embodiment, the flat panel display may output an indicator indicating the currently operated object among the washing machine and the drying machine.

In an embodiment, the indicator may be displayed in a first form in the washing machine operation UI, and may be displayed in a second form different from the first form in the drying machine operation UI.

In an embodiment, the washing machine operation UI may display one or more letters in a first text color distinguished from a basic text color, and the drying machine operation UI may display one or more letters in a second text color distinguished from the basic text color and the first text color.

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

In an embodiment, according to claim 19, the composite UI may be displayed when both the washing machine and the drying machine are in operation.

In an embodiment, the switching button may be deactivated in the state in which the composite UI is displayed.

In an embodiment, the composite UI may include a first area and a second area, which is a different area from the first area. The operation information of the washing machine may be displayed in the first area, and

the operation information of the drying machine may be displayed in the second area.

In an embodiment, when a user touch input is received from the first area, the laundry treating apparatus may display the washing machine operation UI on the flat panel display, and when a user touch input is received from the second area, the laundry treating apparatus may display the drying machine operation UI on the flat panel display.

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

In an embodiment, the control panel may further include an execution button configured to receive a user input to execute or pause operation of the washing machine or the drying machine.

In an embodiment, the execution button may include a first execution button configured to receive a user input to execute or pause operation of the washing machine and a second execution button configured to receive a user input to execute or pause operation of the drying machine.

In an embodiment, the control panel may further include a power button configured to receive a user input to turn the washing machine or the drying machine on and off, and the flat panel display may be disposed to occupy a different area from the power button.

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

In an embodiment, an execution button configured to receive a user input to execute or pause operation of the washing machine or the drying machine may be further included, and the execution button may be provided at a position spaced apart from the flat panel display in the opposite direction.

In an embodiment, the power button may include a first power button configured to receive a user input to turn the washing machine on and off and a second power button configured to receive a user input to turn the drying machine on and off.

In an embodiment, when a user input for turn-on of the washing machine is received from the first power button, the washing machine operation UI may be displayed on the flat panel display to enable control of the washing machine, and when a user input for turn-on of the drying machine is received from the second power button, the drying machine operation UI may be displayed on the flat panel display to enable control of the drying machine.

A laundry treating apparatus in accordance with a further aspect of the present disclosure includes a washing machine including a washing machine front panel provided on a front side thereof and a first drum provided therein to receive laundry, a drying machine disposed on the washing machine, the drying machine including a drying machine front panel provided on a front side thereof and a second drum provided therein to receive laundry, and a control panel provided between the washing machine front panel and the drying machine front panel, the control panel being configured to provide a user interface (UI) of at least one of the washing machine or the drying machine, wherein the control panel includes a power button configured to receive a user input to turn the washing machine or the drying machine on and off, a flat panel display configured to display one of a washing machine operation UI for operation of the washing machine and a drying machine operation UI for operation of the drying machine, and an execution button configured to receive a user input to execute or pause operation of the washing machine or the drying machine, the power button is provided at a position spaced apart from the flat panel display in one direction, and the execution button is provided at a position spaced apart from the flat panel display in the opposite direction.

In an embodiment, a switching button configured to receive a switching instruction from a user to display the remaining one of the washing machine operation UI and the drying machine operation UI in the state in which one of the washing machine operation UI and the drying machine operation UI is displayed on the flat panel display may be included, and the switching button may be located between the power button and the flat panel display.

In an embodiment, the control panel may include a touch film located on a front surface of the flat panel display, and the switching button may be provided as a touch sensor separated from the touch film.

In an embodiment, the control panel may include a touch film located on a front surface of the flat panel display, and the power button and the execution button may be provided as touch sensors separated from the touch film.

Advantageous Effects

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, in the case in which a control panel capable of controlling all of multiple treating apparatuses constituting a laundry treating apparatus is provided, because the number of physical display devices for indicating the activation states of the treating apparatuses is reduced, a simple and clear design may be provided, and because the number of light-emitting elements indicating the activation states is reduced, manufacturing costs may be reduced.

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, in the case in which a user interface is provided at a control panel capable of controlling all of multiple treating apparatuses constituting a laundry treating apparatus, a simple user interface may be implemented, and an interior effect may be provided when the laundry treating apparatus is placed in an installation environment.

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, in the case in which a user interface is provided at a control panel capable of controlling all of multiple treating apparatuses constituting a laundry treating apparatus, because a user is capable of visually recognizing the treating apparatus corresponding to an activated user interface, intuitive use is possible, and use convenience is improved.

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, in the case in which a user interface is provided at a control panel capable of controlling all of multiple treating apparatuses constituting a laundry treating apparatus, a layout structure capable of reducing erroneous recognition of a touch input due to moisture may be achieved.

The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing relationships between a control panel, a washing machine, and a drying machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a view showing a UI area according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I′ in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 4A to 4D are views showing control processes performed by a user according to the flowchart in FIG. 4 and a user interface.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5A to 5D are views showing control processes performed by a user according to the flowchart in FIG. 5 and a user interface.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 6A to 6G are views showing control processes performed by a user according to the flowchart in FIG. 6 and a user interface.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 7A to 7G are views showing control processes performed by a user according to the flowchart in FIG. 7 and a user interface.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 8A to 8F are views showing control processes performed by a user according to the flowchart in FIG. 8 and a user interface.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 9A to 9E are views showing control processes performed by a user according to the flowchart in FIG. 9 and a user interface.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are views showing a user interface of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and a process of, by a user, controlling the same.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are views showing a user interface of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and a process of, by a user, controlling the same.

BEST MODE FOR DISCLOSURE

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains may easily carry out the embodiments.

However, the present disclosure is not limited to aspects disclosed herein and may be implemented in various different forms. In the drawings, in order to clearly describe the present disclosure, descriptions of elements which are not related to the present disclosure are omitted, and the same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the specification.

In the following description of the embodiments, redundant description of the same elements will be omitted.

When an element is referred to as being “connected to” or “coupled to” another element, it may be directly connected to or coupled to the other element, or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element, there may be no intervening elements present.

Further, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

As used herein, singular forms may be intended to include plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Further, in the following description of the embodiments, the terms “comprising,” “including,” or “having” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

Further, as used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. In the following description of the embodiments, “a or b” may include “a”, “b”, or “both a and b”.

FIG. 1 shows a laundry treating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the laundry treating apparatus 1 includes a washing machine 10, a drying machine 20, and a control panel 200.

In the description of the present disclosure, a forward direction (+X), a backward direction (−X), a first lateral direction (+Y), a second lateral direction (−Y), an upward direction (+Z), and a downward direction (Z) of each component may be defined as the same directions as those of the other components. For example, the forward-backward direction (+X,−X) of the washing machine 10 may be defined as the same direction as the forward-backward direction of the drying machine 20 and the forward-backward direction of the control panel 200, and the lateral direction (Y) and the upward-downward direction (Z) may also be defined in the same manner.

The washing machine 10 and the drying machine 20 may be implemented in various types of laundry treating apparatuses, such as a washing machine for washing laundry and/or a drying machine for drying laundry. The washing machine 10 may be a washing machine, and the drying machine 20 may be a drying machine. Both the washing machine 10 and the drying machine 20 may be washing machines or drying machines. The washing machine 10 may be a drying machine, and the drying machine 20 may be a washing machine. The washing machine 10 and the drying machine 20 may be various other types of laundry treating apparatuses.

In the embodiment, the washing machine 10 located at a lower position may correspond to a washing machine for washing laundry. The washing machine 10 may be provided therein with a first drum 12 in which laundry is received and a tub 14. The first drum 12 in the washing machine 10 may be rotatably provided in the tub 14. The drying machine 20 is located on the washing machine 10. The washing machine 10 supports the drying machine 20. The drying machine 20 may correspond to a drying machine for drying laundry. The drying machine 20 may be provided therein with a first drum 12 in which laundry is received and a tub 14.

The washing machine 10 may include a first cabinet 110 forming the external appearance thereof. The first cabinet 110 may be provided on a front side thereof with a washing machine front panel 112. The washing machine front panel 112 may include a laundry opening communicating with the first drum 12. The laundry opening may be opened and closed by a first cabinet door 17. The first drum 12 of the washing machine 10 according to the embodiment has a rotation axis parallel to the forward-backward direction (+X,−Y).

A first lateral panel 115 may be provided on each of both sides of the washing machine 10 in the lateral direction Y, a first rear panel (not shown) may be provided on a rear side of the washing machine 10, a first upper panel (not shown) may be provided on an upper side of the washing machine 10, and a first lower panel (not shown) may be provided on a lower side of the washing machine 10.

The washing machine front panel 112, the first lateral panel 115, the first rear panel (not shown), the first upper panel 119, and the first lower panel (not shown) may be assembled with one another to form the first cabinet 110 and may have coupling relationships with one another. The first cabinet 110 may have a space defined therein to accommodate internal components constituting the washing machine 10, such as the first drum 12.

Laundry to be treated may be introduced into the first cabinet 110 through the laundry opening of the washing machine 10, and may be received in the first drum 12, and a treatment process may be performed by the washing machine 10.

A detergent opening may be formed in the washing machine front panel 112, and a detergent storage unit 30 is inserted into and received in the detergent opening. In the laundry treating apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, the washing machine 10 may be disposed on the ground, and the detergent storage unit 30 may be located at a higher position than the laundry opening of the washing machine 10 in order to facilitate introduction and withdrawal of the detergent storage unit 30. The detergent storage unit 30 may be located between the laundry opening of the washing machine 10 and the control panel 200. That is, the detergent storage unit 30 may be located at a higher position than the laundry opening of the washing machine 10 and may be located at a lower position than the control panel 200. The detergent storage unit 30 may be introduced into or withdrawn out of the first cabinet 110 by the user. For example, the user may withdraw the detergent storage unit 30 out of the first cabinet 110 to store detergent in the detergent storage unit 30, and then may introduce the detergent storage unit 30 back into the first cabinet 110.

In the embodiment, a filter opening, into which a filter unit 40 for collecting foreign substances from wash water is inserted, is formed in the washing machine front panel 112, and the filter unit 40 is inserted into and received in the filter opening. The filter unit 40 may be provided at a part of a lower portion of the washing machine front panel 112. The filter unit 40 may be introduced into the first cabinet 110 through the filter opening, and may be connected to a flow path for wash water discharged from the tub 14. The filter unit 40 may remove foreign substances from wash water discharged from the tub 14 after the washing process is performed. However, the role of the filter unit 40 is not necessarily limited thereto. The filter unit 40 may be provided to remove foreign substances from various objects as needed. For example, the filter unit 40 may be provided to remove foreign substances from wash water for the washing process before the washing process is performed.

The user may introduce or withdraw the filter unit 40 into or out of the first cabinet 110 through the filter opening. The withdrawn filter unit 40 may be reused after cleaning or may be replaced. The introduction/withdrawal frequency of the filter unit 40 may be lower than that of the detergent storage unit 30. Accordingly, in the embodiment of the present disclosure, the detergent opening, into and out of which the detergent storage unit 30 is introduced and withdrawn with a higher frequency, may be disposed at an upper portion of the washing machine front panel 112. In addition, the filter opening, into and out of which the filter unit 40 is introduced and withdrawn with a lower frequency, may be disposed at a lower portion of the washing machine front panel 112, thereby implementing the structure of the washing machine front panel 112 capable of improving use convenience and efficiency of space utilization.

Further, a wash water discharge flow path, which is connected to the tub 14 in the first cabinet 110, may be located at a lower portion in the first cabinet 110 in order to facilitate discharge of the wash water. In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the filter unit 40 may be provided at a lower portion of the first cabinet 110 and thus may be efficiently connected to the wash water discharge flow path.

The washing machine 10 may be provided with a washing machine controller 19. The washing machine controller 19 is a component configured to control various devices constituting the washing machine 10. The washing machine controller 19 is disposed in the first cabinet 110. The washing machine controller 19 may include a circuit board and electronic components mounted on the circuit board. In the embodiment, the washing machine controller 19 may retrieve information that corresponds to an operation signal received from the control panel 200 from a memory, and may perform control of the device in response to the operation signal. The washing machine controller 19 may transmit the state of the washing machine 10 to the control panel 200.

The drying machine 20 may include a second cabinet 120 forming the external appearance thereof. The second cabinet 120 may be provided on a front side thereof with a drying machine front panel 122. The drying machine front panel 122 may include a laundry opening communicating with the second drum 22. The laundry opening may be opened and closed by a second cabinet door 27.

A second lateral panel 125 may be provided on each of both sides of the drying machine 20 in the lateral direction (+Y,−Y). A second rear panel (not shown) may be provided on a rear side of the drying machine 20, a second upper panel 127 may be provided on an upper side of the drying machine 20, and a second lower panel (not shown) may be provided on a lower side of the drying machine 20.

The drying machine front panel 122, the second lateral panel 125, the second rear panel (not shown), the second upper panel 127, and the second lower panel (not shown) may be assembled with one another to form the second cabinet 120, and may have coupling relationships with one another. The second cabinet 120 may have a space defined therein to accommodate internal components constituting the drying machine 20, such as the second drum 22.

Laundry to be treated may be introduced into the second cabinet 120 through the laundry opening of the drying machine 20, and may be received in the second drum 22. Treatment processes such as washing and drying may be performed on the laundry received in the second drum 22 by the drying machine 20.

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

The drying machine 20 is disposed on the washing machine 10. In the embodiment, the lower side of the washing machine 10 may be coupled to the upper side of the drying machine 20. The upper side of the washing machine 10 may have a structure for supporting the drying machine 20. For example, the first upper panel (not shown) of the washing machine 10 may have a structure for directly or indirectly supporting the second lower panel (not shown) of the drying machine 20.

The drying machine 20 may be provided with a drying machine controller 29. The drying machine controller 29 is a component configured to control various devices constituting the drying machine 2. The drying machine controller 29 is disposed in the second cabinet 120. The drying machine controller 29 may include a circuit board and electronic components mounted on the circuit board. In the embodiment, the drying machine controller 29 may retrieve information that corresponds to an operation signal received from the control panel 200 from a memory, and may perform control of the device in response to the operation signal. The drying machine controller 29 may transmit the state of the drying machine 20 to the control panel 200.

The control panel 200 is disposed between the washing machine front panel 112 and the drying machine front panel 122. Because the control panel 200 is provided between the washing machine front panel 112 and the drying machine front panel 122, the control panel 200 may be located at a height substantially corresponding to the user's waist, so the user may conveniently operate the control panel 200. The control panel 200 may be signally connected to at least one of the washing machine 10 or the drying machine 20. In the embodiment, the control panel 200 is signally connected to the washing machine 10 and the drying machine 20. In the embodiment, the control panel 200 is signally connected to the washing machine controller 19 and/or the drying machine 20.

A UI area 220, in which a user interface (UI) is displayed, is provided on a front surface portion 210 of the control panel 200.

FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing the relationships between the control panel 200, the washing machine 10, and the drying machine 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

According to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the control panel 200 may include a display unit 210, an input unit 202, and a controller 203.

The display unit 201 is a component configured to display the state of the washing machine 10 and/or the state of the drying machine 20. The display unit 201 is provided in the UI area 220 of the control panel 200. The display unit 201 displays operation information of at least one of the washing machine or the drying machine and the user interface (UI).

The input unit 202 is a component configured to receive, from the user, an operation instruction for control of the washing machine 10 and/or the drying machine 20. The input unit 202 is provided at the control panel 200. The input unit 202 may be provided as a touchscreen. The input unit 202 may be provided as a touch sensor. The input unit 202 may be provided as a physical button.

The controller 203 may be provided in the control panel 200, i.e., on the rear surface of the front surface portion 210. One or more controllers 203 may be provided. The controller 203 may be electrically connected to the washing machine 10 and/or the drying machine 20 to exchange a signal therewith. The contact area 203 may be connected to the display unit 201 and/or the input unit 202 to exchange a signal therewith. The aforementioned signal may be a control instruction, a user input, state information of the apparatus, or the like. The controller 203 may sense an operation signal from the input unit 202. The controller 203 may retrieve information that corresponds to the input operation signal from the memory. The controller 203 may transmit display data to the display unit 201. The display unit 201 may display the operational state of the washing machine 10, the operational state of the drying machine 20, and/or the content of the instruction input by the user in response to the display data received from the controller 203. The controller 203 may change the states of the components constituting the input unit 202 to activated states or deactivated states. The controller 203 may change the states of the components constituting the display unit 201 to activated states or deactivated states. The controller 203 may include a circuit board and electronic components mounted on the circuit board.

Although the controller 203 has been described in the embodiment as being included in the control panel 200, the controller 203 may not be classified as the control panel 200. Further, the controller 203 may be provided at a position other than the control panel 200. The controller 203 may be provided in the washing machine 10 and/or the drying machine 20. Further, the controller 203 may be provided in each of the control panel 200, the washing machine 10, and the drying machine 20. The controller 203 may be integrated with the washing machine controller 19 and/or the drying machine controller 29. Alternatively, the controller 203 may be understood as a concept incorporated into the washing machine controller 19 and/or the drying machine controller 29.

FIG. 3 is a view showing the UI area 220 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. A user interface (UI) is provided in the UI area 220.

The user interface displayed in the UI area 220 may include a first power button 221, a second power button 222, a touch display 223, a switching button 224, an added function button 225, a first execution button 226, and a second execution button 227.

The first power button 221, the second power button 222, the switching button 224, the added function button 225, the first execution button 226, and the second execution button 227 may be provided as a touch sensor or a physical button. The touch display 223 may be configured as a combination of a flat panel display and a touchscreen. In the embodiment, the flat panel display means a thin display and may be provided in any of various forms such as LCD, PDP, AMLCD, PMLCD, OLED, and LED.

The first power button 221 is displayed as a power icon of the washing machine 10. The first power button 221 receives a user input to turn the washing machine 10 on and off. In the embodiment, if the user touches the first power button 221, the controller 203 may receive a turn-on or turn-off instruction for the washing machine 10.

The second power button 222 is displayed as a power icon of the drying machine 20. The second power button 222 is disposed to occupy a different area from the first power button 221. In the embodiment, the first power button 221 and the second power button 222 are disposed at upper and lower positions. The second power button 222 receives a user input to turn the drying machine 20 on and off. In the embodiment, if the user touches the second power button 222, the controller 203 may receive a turn-on or turn-off instruction for the drying machine 20.

The first power button 221 and the second power button 222 may be provided as separate touch sensors separated from a touch film provided in the touch display 223. If the first power button 221 and the second power button 222 are provided in an area separated from the touch display 223, erroneous operation of the apparatus may be reduced. The laundry treating apparatus 1 is placed in an environment with a lot of moisture. If the touch film forming the touch display 223 is provided in a different area from the first power button 221 and the second power button 222, erroneous operation caused by touch due to moisture may be minimized. For example, when the user turns the drying machine on and accesses the drying machine operation UI during operation of the washing machine, it is possible to prevent a problem of options of the washing machine being changed due to erroneous operation caused by touch due to moisture.

The touch display 223 is disposed to occupy a different area from the first power button 221 and the second power button 222. The touch display 223 includes a touch film forming one of the input units 202 and a flat panel display forming one of the display units 201. The touch display 223 may display one of a washing machine operation UI for control of the washing machine 10, a drying machine operation UI for control of the drying machine 20, and a composite UI in which operation information of the washing machine 10 and operation information of the drying machine 20 are displayed on a single screen. The washing machine operation UI, the drying machine operation UI, and the composite UI will be described in detail later.

The switching button 224 is disposed to occupy a different area from the first power button 221, the second power button 222, and the touch display 223. The switching button 224 may be provided as a separate touch sensor separated from the touch film provided in the touch display 223. If the switching button 224 is provided in an area separated from the touch display 223, erroneous operation of the apparatus may be reduced. The laundry treating apparatus 1 is placed in an environment with a lot of moisture. If the touch film forming the touch display 223 is provided in a different area from the switching button 224, erroneous operation caused by touch due to moisture may be minimized. For example, when the user turns the drying machine on and accesses the drying machine operation UI during operation of the washing machine, it is possible to prevent a problem of options of the washing machine being changed due to erroneous operation caused by touch due to moisture.

The switching button 224 may be displayed as a switching icon. The switching button 224 receives a user input for switching a control target. When both the washing machine 10 and the drying machine 20 are in the on state, the switching button 224 is activated. If the switching button 224 is input in the state in which the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the touch display 223, the control target is switched to the drying machine 20, and the drying machine operation UI is displayed on the touch display 223. If the switching button 224 is input in the state in which the drying machine operation UI is displayed on the touch display 223, the control target is switched to the washing machine 10, and the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the touch display 223. When the power supply of at least one of the washing machine 10 or the drying machine 20 is in the off state, the switching button 224 is deactivated.

The added function button 225 may be displayed in the form of a text icon. The added function button 225 is disposed to occupy a different area from the first power button 221, the second power button 222, the touch display 223, and the switching button 224. The added function button 225 receives a user input for setting of an added function of the washing machine 10 and/or the drying machine 20. In the embodiment, if the user touches the added function button 225, an item for setting of an added function (e.g., reservation or volume of notification sound) of the washing machine 10 and/or the drying machine 20 may be displayed on the touch display 223.

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

The second execution button 227 is displayed as a start/pause icon. The second execution button 227 is disposed to occupy a different area from the first power button 221, the second power button 222, the touch display 223, the switching button 224, the added function button 225, and the first execution button 226. The first execution button 226 and the second execution button 227 are disposed at upper and lower positions. The second power button 222 receives a user input for execution or pause of the operation of the drying machine 20.

FIG. 3A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion at which the switching button 224 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is located, and shows the cross-section cut along line I-I′ in FIG. 3.

Referring to FIG. 3, the switching button 224 is configured such that a switching icon shape 224b is formed so as to transmit light and displayed in a set area of a light-blocking film 224a provided at the rear of the front surface portion 210 of the control panel 200. A touch sensor 224c may be provided on the surface on which the switching icon shape 224b is provided. The touch sensor 224c may be provided in any of various forms such as a capacitive type, a pressure-sensitive type, and an infrared type. A light-emitting element 230 is disposed at the rear of the switching icon shape 224b. Light emission of the light-emitting element 230 may be controlled to be on/off. The light-emitting element 230 indicates the activated state of the switching button 224. In the embodiment, the light-emitting element 230 emits light when the switching button 224 is in the activated state. In the deactivated state of the switching button 224, light emission of the light-emitting element 230 is controlled to be off. In the embodiment, one light-emitting element 230 is disposed at the rear of the switching button 224.

Although the configuration of the switching button 224 has been described herein by way of example, the first power button 221, the second power button 222, the added function button 225, the first execution button 226, and the second execution button 227 may also have an identical or similar configuration to the switching button 224, and the activated states of the buttons may also be indicated by light-emitting elements.

Hereinafter, a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 11B. In the drawings for description of the present disclosure, a portion represented by a dark-colored or thick line indicates the activated state, and a portion represented by a light-colored or thin line indicates the deactivated state. In the activated state of the button, an input instruction may be received through the button, and in the deactivated state of the button, an input instruction may not be received through the button.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 4A to 4D are views showing control processes performed by the user according to the flowchart in FIG. 4 and the user interface.

An operation step for operation of the washing machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. If the user touches the first power button 221 (refer to FIG. 4A), the washing machine 10 is turned on (S111). If the washing machine 10 is turned on, a washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S112), as shown in FIG. 4B. Further, if the washing machine 10 is turned on, the first execution button 226 is activated (S113), as shown in FIG. 4B.

The washing machine operation UI 310 is a user interface that enables control of the washing machine 10. The washing machine operation UI 310 includes a first screen. A course name 311, a course explanation 312, a treatment option 313, and an indicator 315 are displayed on the first screen. The course name 311 indicates the name of a preset treatment course of the washing machine 10. In addition, the course name 311 indicates the selected course name 311. In the embodiment, the washing machine 10 may be a washing machine, and the indicated course name may be a “standard washing” course.

The course explanation 312 indicates explanation of the treatment course corresponding to the indicated course name 311. In the embodiment, the course name 311 may be “standard washing”, and the course explanation 312 may be expressed as “general clothes cleaning”. The course explanation 312 may be disposed below the course name 311, and may be written in a smaller font than the course name 311.

The treatment option 313 indicates detailed options of the treatment course. In the embodiment, a set number of rinsings, intensity of dehydration, water temperature, etc. may be displayed.

The indicator 315 may indicate the currently operated object among the washing machine 10 and the drying machine 20. In the embodiment, the indicator 315 may be provided in the form of an icon. In another embodiment, the indicator 315 may be provided as text.

The indicator 315 may be displayed in an upper end area of the washing machine operation UI 310. In the embodiment, the indicator 315 is displayed in a first form. The first form may include two rectangles stacked vertically, and the lower rectangle may be colored. The first form may be a form colored in a first color. The indicator 315 provides the user with intuitive visual information about which treating apparatus is the currently operated object. In the embodiment, the indicator 315 is displayed on the washing machine operation UI 310 so that the user is capable of visually recognizing that the currently displayed UI is the washing machine operation UI 310 and the control target is the washing machine 10.

The laundry treating apparatus 1 receives a treatment course and/or a treatment option of the washing machine 10 from the user through the washing machine operation UI 310 (S120). When setting of the treatment course and the treatment option of the washing machine 10 is completed, the user may touch the first execution button 226 to command the washing machine 10 to operate (S130), as shown in FIG. 4C. When the controller 203 receives the user input from the first execution button 226, the controller 203 may transmit a signal to the washing machine 10 so that the washing machine 10 operates according to the set treatment course and treatment option. In the embodiment, the controller 203 may transmit a signal to the washing machine controller 19 of the washing machine 10, and the washing machine controller 19 may transmit an operation command to each of the components constituting the washing machine 10. As a result, upon receiving the user input from the first execution button 226, the washing machine 10 executes a laundry treatment operation according to the set treatment course and treatment option (S140).

When the operation of the washing machine 10 is executed, a second screen is displayed on the washing machine operation UI 310 (refer to FIG. 4D). Treatment information 317 and a time bar 317a may be displayed on the second screen. The indicator 315 may be further displayed on the second screen. The treatment information 317 is a course name, a remaining processing time, or a treatment option. The time bar 317a indicates a processing time. The time bar 317a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 317a indicates the elapsed processing time using the length of a colored portion of the bar. As the processing time elapses, the colored portion of the time bar 317a increases in length. The time bar 317a may be colored in a first color.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 5A to 5D are views showing control processes performed by the user according to the flowchart in FIG. 5 and the user interface.

An operation step for operation of the drying machine 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. If the user touches the second power button 222 (refer to FIG. 5A), the drying machine 20 is turned on (S211). If the drying machine 20 is turned on, a drying machine operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S112), as shown in FIG. 5B. Further, if the drying machine 20 is turned on, the second execution button 227 is activated (S213), as shown in FIG. 5B.

The drying machine operation UI 320 is a user interface that enables control of the drying machine 20. The drying machine operation UI 320 includes a first screen. A course name 321, a course explanation 322, a treatment option 323, and an indicator 325 are displayed on the first screen. The course name 321 indicates the name of a preset treatment course of the drying machine 20. In addition, the course name 321 indicates the selected course name 321. In the embodiment, the drying machine 20 may be a drying machine, and the indicated course name may be a “standard drying” course.

The course explanation 322 indicates explanation of the treatment course corresponding to the indicated course name 321. In the embodiment, the course name 321 may be “standard drying”, and the course explanation 322 may be expressed as “making general clothes dry and soft”. The course explanation 322 may be disposed below the course name 321, and may be written in a smaller font than the course name 321.

The treatment option 323 indicates detailed options of the treatment course. In the embodiment, a set drying level, a drying time, on/off of a wrinkle prevention function, etc. may be displayed.

The indicator 325 may be displayed in an upper end area of the drying machine operation UI 320. The indicator 325 is displayed in a second form. The second form is a form different from the first form described above. The second form may include two rectangles stacked vertically, and the upper rectangle may be colored. The second form may be a form colored in a second color. The second color is a color different from the second color described above. The indicator 325 provides the user with intuitive visual information about which treating apparatus is the currently operated object. In the embodiment, the indicator 325 is displayed on the drying machine operation UI 320 so that the user is capable of visually recognizing that the currently displayed UI is the drying machine operation UI 320 and the control target is the drying machine 20.

The laundry treating apparatus 1 receives a treatment course and/or a treatment option of the drying machine 20 from the user through the drying machine operation UI 320 (S220). When setting of the treatment course and the treatment option of the drying machine 20 is completed, the user may touch the second execution button 227 to command the drying machine 20 to operate (S230), as shown in FIG. 5C. When the controller 203 receives the user input from the second execution button 227, the controller 203 may transmit a signal to the drying machine 20 so that the drying machine 20 operates according to the set treatment course and treatment option. In the embodiment, the controller 203 may transmit a signal to the drying machine controller 29 of the drying machine 20, and the drying machine controller 29 may transmit an operation command to each of the components constituting the drying machine 20. As a result, upon receiving the user input from the second execution button 227, the drying machine 20 executes a laundry treatment operation according to the set treatment course and treatment option (S240).

When the operation of the drying machine 20 is executed, a second screen is displayed on the drying machine operation UI 320 (refer to FIG. 5D). Treatment information 327 and a time bar 327a may be displayed on the second screen. The indicator 325 may be further displayed on the second screen. The treatment information 327 is a course name, a remaining processing time, or a treatment option. The time bar 327a indicates a processing time. The time bar 327a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 327a indicates the elapsed processing time using the length of a colored portion of the bar. As the processing time elapses, the colored portion of the time bar 327a increases in length. The time bar 327a may be colored in a second color.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 6A to 6G are views showing control processes performed by the user according to the flowchart in FIG. 6 and the user interface.

An operation step for operation of the drying machine 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 6. In the embodiment, the washing machine 10 is maintained in the on state. Here, the on state refers to a standby state for reception of a processing instruction or an operating state. In the embodiment, referring to FIG. 6A, the washing machine 10 may be maintained in the on state in response to an input signal received from the first power button 221 touched by the user.

Referring to FIG. 6B, when the washing machine 10 is in the on state, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223, and the first execution button 226 is maintained in the activated state (S310).

In the on state of the washing machine 10, the user turns the drying machine 20 on (S321). The drying machine 20 is turned on in response to touch of the second power button 222 by the user (refer to FIG. 6C).

Referring to FIG. 6D, if the drying machine 20 is turned on, the switching button 224 is activated (S322). Referring to FIG. 6D, if the drying machine 20 is turned on, the drying machine operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S323). Referring to FIG. 6D, if the drying machine 20 is turned on, the second execution button 227 is activated (S324).

The laundry treating apparatus 1 receives a treatment course and/or a treatment option of the drying machine 20 from the user through the drying machine operation UI 320 (S330). When setting of the treatment course and the treatment option of the drying machine 20 is completed, the user may touch the second execution button 227 to command the drying machine 20 to operate (S340), as shown in FIG. 6E. When the controller 203 receives the user input from the second execution button 227, the controller 203 may transmit a signal to the drying machine 20 so that the drying machine 20 operates according to the set treatment course and treatment option. In the embodiment, the controller 203 may transmit a signal to the drying machine controller 29 of the drying machine 20, and the drying machine controller 29 may transmit an operation command to each of the components constituting the drying machine 20. As a result, upon receiving the user input from the second execution button 227, the drying machine 20 executes a laundry treatment operation according to the set treatment course and treatment option (S350).

In the embodiment, the laundry treating apparatus 1 determines whether the washing machine 10 is in operation (S360). If the washing machine 10 is not in operation (No), the drying machine operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S371). In addition, the switching button 224 is maintained in the activated state (S372). In detail, the second screen of the drying machine operation UI 320 may be displayed on the touch display 223 (refer to FIG. 6F). Treatment information 327 and a time bar 327a may be displayed on the second screen. The indicator 325 may be further displayed on the second screen. The treatment information 327 is a course name, a remaining processing time, or a treatment option. The time bar 327a indicates a processing time. The time bar 327a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 327a indicates the elapsed processing time using the length of a colored portion of the bar. As the processing time elapses, the colored portion of the time bar 327a increases in length. The time bar 327a may be colored in the second color.

Referring to FIG. 6G, if the washing machine 10 is in operation (Yes), a composite UI 330 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S381). The drying machine operation UI 320 may be displayed for a set time period before the composite UI 330 is displayed (not described in the flowchart). In addition, the switching button 224 is deactivated (S382). The composite UI 330 displays the operation information of the washing machine 10 and the operation information of the drying machine 20 on a single screen. The composite UI 330 is displayed when both the washing machine 10 and the drying machine 20 are in operation. The composite UI 330 is provided with a first area 331 and a second area 332. The operation information of the washing machine 10 is displayed in the first area 331. The operation information of the drying machine 20 is displayed in the second area 332. The first area 331 and the second area 332 are displayed on a single screen. The first area 331 occupies an upper area of the composite UI 330, and the second area 332 occupies a lower area of the composite UI 330.

Treatment information and a time bar 331a may be displayed in the first area 331. The treatment information includes a remaining processing time. The time bar 331a indicates a processing time. The time bar 331a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 331a indicates the elapsed processing time using the length of a colored portion of the bar. As the processing time elapses, the colored portion of the time bar 331a increases in length. The time bar 331a may be colored in the first color. The first area 331 may receive user touch. When the user touch input is received from the first area 331, the touch display 223 is controlled to display the washing machine operation UI 310.

Treatment information and a time bar 332a may be displayed in the second area 332. The treatment information includes a remaining processing time. The time bar 332a indicates a processing time. The time bar 332a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 332a indicates the elapsed processing time using the length of a colored portion of the bar. As the processing time elapses, the colored portion of the time bar 332a increases in length. The time bar 332a may be colored in the second color. The second area 332 may receive user touch. When the user touch input is received from the second area 332, the touch display 223 is controlled to display the drying machine operation UI 320.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 7A to 7G are views showing control processes performed by the user according to the flowchart in FIG. 7 and the user interface.

An operation step for operation of the washing machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 7. In the embodiment, the drying machine 20 is maintained in the on state. Here, the on state refers to a standby state for reception of a processing instruction or an operating state. In the embodiment, referring to FIG. 7A, the drying machine 20 may be maintained in the on state in response to an input signal received from the second power button 222 touched by the user.

Referring to FIG. 7B, when the drying machine 20 is in the on state, the drying machine operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223, and the second execution button 227 is maintained in the activated state (S410).

In the on state of the drying machine 20, the user turns the washing machine 10 on (S421). The washing machine 10 is turned on in response to touch of the first power button 221 by the user (refer to FIG. 7C).

Referring to FIG. 7D, if the washing machine 10 is turned on, the switching button 224 is activated (S722). Referring to FIG. 7D, if the washing machine 10 is turned on, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S423). Referring to FIG. 7D, if the washing machine 10 is turned on, the first execution button 226 is activated (S424).

The laundry treating apparatus 1 receives a treatment course and/or a treatment option of the washing machine 10 from the user through the washing machine operation UI 310 (S430). When setting of the treatment course and the treatment option of the washing machine 10 is completed, the user may touch the first execution button 226 to command the washing machine 10 to operate (S440), as shown in FIG. 7E. When the controller 203 receives the user input from the first execution button 226, the controller 203 may transmit a signal to the washing machine 10 so that the washing machine 10 operates according to the set treatment course and treatment option. In the embodiment, the controller 203 may transmit a signal to the washing machine controller 19 of the washing machine 10, and the washing machine controller 19 may transmit an operation command to each of the components constituting the washing machine 10. As a result, upon receiving the user input from the first execution button 226, the washing machine 10 executes a laundry treatment operation according to the set treatment course and treatment option (S450).

In the embodiment, the laundry treating apparatus 1 determines whether the drying machine 20 is in operation (S460). If the drying machine 20 is not in operation (No), the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S471). In addition, the switching button 224 is maintained in the activated state (S472). In detail, the second screen of the washing machine operation UI 310 may be displayed on the touch display 223 (refer to FIG. 7F). Treatment information 317 and a time bar 317a may be displayed on the second screen. The indicator 325 may be further displayed on the second screen. The treatment information 317 is a course name, a remaining processing time, or a treatment option. The time bar 317a indicates a processing time. The time bar 317a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 317a indicates the elapsed processing time using the length of a colored portion of the bar. As the processing time elapses, the colored portion of the time bar 317a increases in length. The time bar 317a may be colored in the first color.

Referring to FIG. 7G, if the drying machine 20 is in operation (Yes), a composite UI 330 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S481). The washing machine operation UI 310 may be displayed for a set time period before the composite UI 330 is displayed (not described in the flowchart). In addition, the switching button 224 is deactivated (S482). The composite UI 330 displays the operation information of the washing machine 10 and the operation information of the drying machine 20 on a single screen. The composite UI 330 is displayed when both the washing machine 10 and the drying machine 20 are in operation. The composite UI 330 is provided with a first area 331 and a second area 332. The operation information of the washing machine 10 is displayed in the first area 331. The operation information of the drying machine 20 is displayed in the second area 332. The first area 331 and the second area 332 are displayed on a single screen. The first area 331 occupies an upper area of the composite UI 330, and the second area 332 occupies a lower area of the composite UI 330.

Treatment information and a time bar 331a may be displayed in the first area 331. The treatment information includes a remaining processing time. The time bar 331a indicates a processing time. The time bar 331a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 331a indicates the elapsed processing time using the length of a colored portion of the bar. As the processing time elapses, the colored portion of the time bar 331a increases in length. The time bar 331a may be colored in the first color. The first area 331 may receive user touch. When the user touch input is received from the first area 331, the touch display 223 is controlled to display the washing machine operation UI 310.

Treatment information and a time bar 332a may be displayed in the second area 332. The treatment information includes a remaining processing time. The time bar 332a indicates a processing time. The time bar 332a may be displayed in a bar shape. The time bar 332a indicates the elapsed processing time using the length of a colored portion of the bar. As the processing time elapses, the colored portion of the time bar 332a increases in length. The time bar 332a may be colored in the second color. The second area 332 may receive user touch. When the user touch input is received from the second area 332, the touch display 223 is controlled to display the drying machine operation UI 320.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 8A to 8F are views showing control processes performed by the user according to the flowchart in FIG. 8 and the user interface.

Referring to FIG. 8, in the embodiment, the washing machine 10 is maintained in the on state. Here, the on state refers to a standby state for reception of a processing instruction or an operating state. Referring to FIG. 8A, the washing machine 10 may be maintained in the on state in response to an input signal received from the first power button 221 touched by the user.

Referring to FIG. 8B, when the washing machine 10 is in the on state, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223, and the first execution button 226 is maintained in the activated state (S510).

In the on state of the washing machine 10, the user turns the drying machine 20 on (S521). The drying machine 20 is turned on in response to touch of the second power button 222 by the user (refer to FIG. 8C).

Referring to FIG. 8D, if the drying machine 20 is turned on, the switching button 224 is activated (S522). Referring to FIG. 8D, if the drying machine 20 is turned on, the second execution button 227 is activated. Referring to FIG. 8D, if the drying machine 20 is turned on, the drying machine operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S523).

In the state in which the washing machine 10 and the drying machine 20 are in the on state and the drying machine operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223, if input is received from the switching button 224 (S531), as shown in FIG. 8E, the screen of the touch display 223 is switched to display the washing machine operation UI 310 (S540), as shown in FIG. 8F.

If the washing machine 10 and the drying machine 20 are in the on state (S532) and if an operation instruction is not input from the user for a set time period (e.g., 5 seconds) when the washing machine 10 is in operation (S533), the screen of the touch display 223 is switched to display the washing machine operation UI 310 (S540). Here, a process in which an operation instruction is input from the user is a process in which the user operates the drying machine operation UI 320 in order to, for example, select a treatment course and/or a treatment option through the drying machine operation UI 320. Inputting an operation instruction by the user may further include a concept of inputting an operation instruction by touching the second execution button 227.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a user interface and a control method of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 9A to 9E are views showing control processes performed by the user according to the flowchart in FIG. 9 and the user interface.

Referring to FIG. 9, in the embodiment, the drying machine 20 is maintained in the on state. Here, the on state refers to a standby state for reception of a processing instruction or an operating state. Referring to FIG. 9A, the drying machine 20 may be maintained in the on state in response to an input signal received from the second power button 222 touched by the user.

Referring to FIG. 9B, when the drying machine 20 is in the on state, the drying machine operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223, and the second execution button 227 is maintained in the activated state (S610).

In the on state of the drying machine 20, the user turns the washing machine 10 on (S621). The washing machine 10 is turned on in response to touch of the first power button 221 by the user (refer to FIG. 9C).

Referring to FIG. 9D, if the washing machine 10 is turned on, the switching button 224 is activated (S622). Referring to FIG. 9D, if the washing machine 10 is turned on, the first execution button 226 is activated. Referring to FIG. 9D, if the washing machine 10 is turned on, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S623).

In the state in which the washing machine 10 and the drying machine 20 are in the on state and the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223, if input is received from the switching button 224 (S631), as shown in FIG. 9E, the screen of the touch display 223 is switched to display the drying machine operation UI 320 (S640).

If the washing machine 10 and the drying machine 20 are in the on state (S632) and if an operation instruction is not input from the user for a set time period (e.g., 5 seconds) when the drying machine 20 is in operation (S633), the screen of the touch display 223 is switched to display the drying machine operation UI 320 (S640). Here, a process in which an operation instruction is input from the user is a process in which the user operates the washing machine operation UI 310 in order to, for example, select a treatment course and/or a treatment option through the washing machine operation UI 310. Inputting an operation instruction by the user may further include a concept of inputting an operation instruction by touching the first execution button 226.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are views showing a user interface of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and a process of, by the user, controlling the same.

The washing machine operation UI 310 may display one or more letters in a first text color 319a distinguished from a basic text color. Referring to FIG. 10A, in the embodiment, the laundry treating apparatus 1 may receive user touch input from a view-all button 311a located on the right of the course name 311. Referring further to FIG. 10B, when touch input is received from the view-all button 311a, a list of settable courses may be displayed on the washing machine operation UI 310. Among the settable courses, the currently selected course (e.g., “standard washing”) may be displayed in the first text color 319a different from the basic text color indicating non-selected courses. Accordingly, the user may visually recognize which course he or she has selected.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are views showing a user interface of the laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and a process of, by the user, controlling the same.

Referring to FIG. 11, the drying machine operation UI 320 may display one or more letters in a second text color 329a distinguished from the basic text color and the first text color. Referring to FIG. 11A, in the embodiment, the laundry treating apparatus 1 may receive user touch input from a view-all button 321a located on the right of the course name 321. Referring further to FIG. 11B, when touch input is received from the view-all button 321a, a list of settable courses may be displayed on the drying machine operation UI 320. Among the settable courses, the currently selected course (e.g., “standard drying”) may be displayed in the second text color 329a different from the basic text color indicating non-selected courses and the first text color 319a. Accordingly, the user may visually recognize which course he or she has selected. In addition, the washing machine operation UI 310 is expressed in the first text color, and the drying machine operation UI 320 is expressed in the second text color, so the user may visually and intuitively recognize which apparatus is currently being operated.

In the embodiment, the control flow of the laundry treating apparatus 1 may be implemented by any one of the controller 203, the washing machine controller 19, and the drying machine controller 29. In the embodiment, the control flow of the laundry treating apparatus 1 may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, the instructions may generate a program module to perform operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

The above description is merely illustrative of specific embodiments of the present disclosure, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.