CLOTHES TREATING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation application, under 35 U.S.C. § 111(a), of International Application No. PCT/KR 2025/023294, filed Dec. 31, 2025, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0203002, filed Dec. 31, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein in their entireties by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosure relates to a clothes treating apparatus including a drying device, and a method for controlling the clothes treating apparatus.

BACKGROUND ART

A clothes treating apparatus is an apparatus for treating and/or caring for clothes. The clothes treating apparatus may include a dryer and a washing machine. The washing machine may include a dryer combined washing machine (washer-dryer combo).

A dryer combined washing machine is a device that uses a driving force of a drive motor to agitate laundry, water, and detergent together in a tub, thereby washing by mutual friction.

A dryer combined washing machine may perform a washing operation of supplying a detergent and water to a tub that accommodates laundry and washing the laundry while rotating a drum, a rinsing operation of supplying water to the tub and rinsing the laundry by rotating the drum, and a spin-drying operation of discharging water from the tub and removing water from the laundry by rotating the drum.

The operations performed by the dryer combined washing machine may include a drying operation of blowing heat generated from a drying device into a space in which the laundry is accommodated to dry the laundry. The dryer combined washing machine may include the drying device to perform the drying operation.

DISCLOSURE

The disclosure provides a clothes treating apparatus and a method for controlling the same that may detect narrowing and/or blockage of a flow path for circulating water stored in a tub.

The disclosure provides a clothes treating apparatus and a method for controlling the same that may optimize an operation of the clothes treating apparatus to maintain washing performance in the event of narrowing and/or blockage of a flow path for circulating water stored in a tub.

The disclosure provides a clothes treating apparatus and a method for controlling the same that may automatically perform a cleaning process to clear narrowing and/or blockage of a flow path for circulating water stored in a tub.

The disclosure provides a clothes treating apparatus and a method for controlling the same that may provide information about narrowing and/or blockage of a flow path for circulating water stored in a tub to a user.

In accordance with the present disclosure, a clothes treating apparatus may include: a tub; a diaphragm on an opening of the tub; a circulation pump including a pump motor, the circulation pump configured to discharge water from the tub and circulate the discharged water back to the tub; a first pipe connected to an upper portion of the diaphragm; a second pipe connected to a lower portion of the tub; and at least one processor configured to control the pump motor according to execution of a washing course, identify a feedback voltage value obtained from the pump motor, based on the feedback voltage value, control the flow path switching device to guide the discharged water to the first pipe or the second pipe.

The at least one processor may be further configured to: based on the feedback voltage value being less than a reference voltage value, identify the feedback voltage value as abnormal, and based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal, control the flow path switching device to block the discharged water from the first pipe and guide the discharged water to the second pipe.

The at least one processor may be further configured to: based on elapsing a standby time from a time point at which the pump motor starts operation, obtain the feedback voltage value.

The clothes treating apparatus may further include: a memory that stores flow path setting information, the flow path setting information includes information for dividing a washing operation and/or a rinsing operation into at least one first period where the flow path switching device guides the discharged water to the first pipe and at least one second period where the flow path switching device guides the discharged water to the second pipe. The at least one processor may be further configured to: based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal, change the flow path setting information such that the discharged water is guided to the second pipe instead of the first pipe during the at least one first period.

The clothes treating apparatus may further include: a drum that is rotatable in the tub, and a drum motor configured to rotate the drum, wherein the at least one processor may be further configured to: based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal, control the flow path switching device to block the discharged water from the first pipe and guide the discharged water to the second pipe, and control the drum motor to increase a rotation speed of the drum.

The at least one processor may be further configured to: based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal and the washing course ending, perform a cleaning process of the first pipe, and determine an end of the cleaning process based on the feedback voltage value being identified as normal during the cleaning process.

The clothes treating apparatus may further include: a water supply device connectable to an external hot water source, wherein the at least one processor may be further configured to: based on the water supply device connected to the external hot water source, control the water supply device to supply hot water to the tub from the external hot water source to clean the first pipe.

The at least one processor may be further configured to: based on performing the cleaning process, set a rotation speed of the pump motor to a maximum rotation speed.

The clothes treating apparatus may further include: a drying device configured to supply hot air to the tub, wherein the at least one processor may be further configured to: before the hot water is supplied to the tub, operate the drying device to supply hot air to the tub so as to increase a temperature inside the tub.

The clothes treating apparatus may further include: a user interface, wherein the at least one processor may be further configured to: based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal during the cleaning process, provide notification information about a blockage of the first pipe via the user interface and end the cleaning process.

In accordance with the present disclosure, a method for controlling a clothes treating apparatus including a tub, a diaphragm on an opening of the tub, a circulation pump including a pump motor, the circulation pump configured to discharge water from the tub and circulate the discharged water back to the tub, a first pipe connected to an upper portion of the diaphragm, a second pipe connected to a lower portion of the tub, and a flow path switching device configured to guide the discharged water to the first pipe or the second pipe, the method may include: controlling the pump motor according to execution of a washing course, identifying a feedback voltage value obtained from the pump motor, based on the feedback voltage value, controlling the flow path switching device to guide the discharged water to the first pipe or the second pipe.

The identifying a feedback voltage value may include: based on the feedback voltage value being less than a reference voltage value, identifying the feedback voltage value as abnormal, and the controlling the flow path switching device may include based on the feedback voltage value is identified abnormal, controlling the flow path switching device to block the discharged water from the first pipe and guide the discharged water to the second pipe.

The identifying the feedback voltage value obtained from the pump motor may include: based on elapsing a standby time from a time point at which the pump motor starts operation, obtaining the feedback voltage value.

The controlling the flow path switching device may be performed based on flow path setting information stored in a memory, and the flow path setting information includes information for dividing a washing operation and/or a rinsing operation into at least one first period where the flow path switching device guides the discharged water to the first pipe and at least one second period where the flow path switching device guides the discharged water to the second pipe, and the method may further include based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal, changing the flow path setting information such that the discharged water is guided to the second pipe instead of the first pipe during the at least one first period.

The clothes treating apparatus may further includes: a drum in the tub and that is rotatable, and a drum motor configured to rotate the drum, and the method may further include: based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal, controlling the flow path switching device to guide the discharged water to the second pipe and block the discharged water from the first pipe; and controlling the drum motor to increase a rotation speed of a drum.

The method may further include: based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal and the washing course ending, performing a cleaning process of the first pipe, and determining an end of the cleaning process based on the feedback voltage value during the cleaning process being identified as normal.

The clothes treating apparatus may further include a water supply device connectable to an external hot water source, and the performing of the cleaning process on the first pipe may include: based on the water supply device connected to the external hot water source, controlling the water supply device to supply hot water to the tub from the external hot water source to clean the first pipe.

The performing of the cleaning process on the first pipe may include: setting a rotation speed of the pump motor to a maximum rotation speed.

The clothes treating apparatus may further include a drying device configured to supply hot air to the tub, and the performing of the cleaning process on the first pipe may include: before the hot water is supplied to the tub, operating the drying device to supply hot air to the tub so as to increase a temperature inside the tub.

The performing of the cleaning process on the first pipe may include: based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal during the cleaning process, providing notification information about a blockage of the first pipe via a user interface and ending the cleaning process.

According to the present disclosure, a clothes treating apparatus and a method for controlling the same may optimize an operation of the clothes treating apparatus to maintain washing performance in the event of narrowing and/or blockage of a flow path for circulating water stored in a tub.

According to the present disclosure, the clothes treating apparatus and the method for controlling the same may reduce and/or stop an operation of components associated with a narrowed and/or blocked flow path, thereby reducing power consumption and component failure.

According to the present disclosure, the clothes treating apparatus and the method for controlling the same may automatically perform a cleaning process to clear narrowing and/or blockage of a flow path for circulating water stored in a tub, thereby minimizing a reduction in washing performance.

According to the present disclosure, the clothes treating apparatus and the method for controlling the same may provide information about narrowing and/or blockage of a flow path for circulating water stored in a tub to a user, thereby improving user convenience and product reliability.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3 illustrates components arranged inside the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment, viewed from a first direction.

FIG. 4 illustrates components arranged inside the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment, viewed from a second direction.

FIG. 5 illustrates components of the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment that are used to circulate water stored in a tub.

FIG. 6 is a control block diagram of the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7 are graphs illustrating a feedback voltage of a pump motor and a rotation speed of the pump motor when a circulation flow path included in the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment is in a normal state.

FIG. 8 are graphs illustrating a feedback voltage of a pump motor and a rotation speed of the pump motor when a circulation flow path included in the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment is in an abnormal state.

FIG. 9 is a table illustrating flow path setting information for controlling a flow path switching device during a washing operation and/or a rinsing operation.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example operation course performed by the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the method for controlling the clothes treating apparatus described in FIG. 11 in more detail.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the cleaning process described in FIG. 11 in more detail.

MODES OF THE DISCLOSURE

Various embodiments and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of the corresponding embodiments.

In describing of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related elements.

The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items unless clearly indicated otherwise in a related context.

In the disclosure, phrases, such as “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among the phrases.

As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Terms such as “1st”, “2nd”, “primary”, or “secondary” may be used simply to distinguish an element from other elements, without limiting the element in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

When an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “(functionally or communicatively) coupled” or “connected” to another element (e.g., a second element), the first element may be connected to the second element, directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third element.

It will be understood that when the terms “includes”, “comprises”, “including”, and/or “comprising” are used in the disclosure, they specify the presence of the specified features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof.

When a given element is referred to as being “connected to”, “coupled to”, “supported by” or “in contact with” another element, it is to be understood that it may be directly or indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other element. When a given element is indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with another element, it is to be understood that it may be connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other element through a third element.

It will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being “on” another element, it may be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present.

A washing machine according to various embodiments may perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying processes. The washing machine is an example of a clothes treating apparatus, and the clothes treating apparatus is a concept including a device capable of washing clothes (objects to be washed, and objects to be dried), a device capable of drying clothes, and a device capable of washing and drying clothes.

The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a top-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet for inserting or removing laundry is provided to face upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet is provided to face forward. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine of a loading type other than the top-loading washing machine and the front-loading washing machine.

For the top-loading washing machine, laundry may be washed using water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. For the front-loading washing machine, laundry may be washed by repeatedly lifting and lowering laundry by rotating a drum. The front-loading washing machine may include a dryer combined washing machine capable of drying laundry stored in a drum. The dryer combined washing machine may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensing device for removing moisture from air discharged from the drum. For example, the dryer combined washing machine may include a heat pump device. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine using a washing method other than the above-described washing method.

The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a housing accommodating various components therein. The housing may be provided in the form of a box including a laundry inlet on one side thereof.

The washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the laundry inlet. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing by a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be transparent or translucent to allow the inside of the housing to be visible.

The washing machine may include a tub disposed within the housing to store water. The tub may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side thereof. The tub may be disposed inside the housing in such a way that the tub opening corresponds to the laundry inlet.

The tub may be connected to the housing by a damper. The damper may absorb vibration generated when the drum rotates, and the damper may reduce vibration transmitted to the housing.

The washing machine may include a drum provided to accommodate laundry.

The drum may be disposed inside the tub such that a drum opening provided on one side of the drum corresponds to the laundry inlet and the tub opening. Laundry may pass sequentially through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening and then be received in the drum or removed from the drum.

The drum may perform each operation according to washing, rinsing, and/or spin-drying while rotating in the tub. A plurality of through holes may be formed in a cylindrical wall of the drum to allow water stored in the tub to be introduced into or to be discharged from the drum.

The washing machine may include a driving device configured to rotate the drum. The driving device may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting a driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may penetrate the tub to be connected to the drum.

The driving device may perform respective operations according to washing, rinsing, and/or spin-drying, or drying processes by rotating the drum in a forward or reverse direction.

The washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to the tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve disposed in the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply pipe may extend from an external water supply source to a detergent supply device and/or the tub. The water may be supplied to the tub through the detergent supply device. Alternatively, water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

The water supply valve may open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from a controller. The water supply valve may allow or block the supply of water to the tub from an external water supply source. The water supply valve may include a solenoid valve configured to open or close in response to an electrical signal.

The washing machine may include the detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device that requires a user to enter detergent to be used for each washing, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically adds a predetermined amount of detergent during washing. The detergent supply device may include a detergent container for storing detergent. The detergent supply device may be configured to supply detergent into the tub during a water supply process. The water supplied through the water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device. The water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub. Detergent is used as a term including detergent for pre-washing, detergent for main washing, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent container may be partitioned into a storage region for the pre-washing detergent, a storage region for the main washing detergent, a storage region for the fabric softener, and a storage region for the bleach.

The washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water contained in the tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drain pipe extending from a bottom of the tub to the outside of the housing, a drain valve disposed on the drain pipe to open or close the drain pipe, and a pump disposed on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water from the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

The washing machine may include a control panel disposed on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface for interaction between a user and the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

The at least one input interface may convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal. The at least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a washing/rinsing/spin-drying setting button. The at least one input interface may include a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and/or a microphone.

The at least one output interface may visually or audibly transmit information related to the operation of the washing machine to a user. For example, the at least one output interface may transmit information related to an operation course, operation time of the washing machine, and washing/rinsing/spin-drying settings to the user. Information about the operation of the washing machine may be output via a screen, an indicator, or a voice. The at least one output interface may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, or a speaker.

The washing machine may include a communication module for wired and/or wireless communication with an external device.

The communication module may include at least one of a short-range wireless communication module and a long-range wireless communication module.

The communication module may transmit data to an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and/or a home appliance) or receive data from the external device. For example, the communication module may establish communication with a server and/or a user device and/or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various types of data.

For the communication, the communication module may establish a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the external devices, and support the performance of the communication through the established communication channel. According to an embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module may communicate with an external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated as a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as a plurality of separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

The short-range wireless communication module may include a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, and a Zigbee communication module, an IrDA communication module, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication module, an ultrawideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc., but is not limited thereto.

The long-range wireless communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-range wireless communication, and may include a mobile communication circuitry. The mobile communication circuitry transmits and receives radio signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server in a mobile communication network.

According to an embodiment, the communication module may communicate with an external device such as a server, a user device and other home appliances through an access point (AP). The AP may connect a LAN, to which a washing machine or a user device is connected, to a WAN to which a server is connected. The washing machine or the user device may be connected to the server via the WAN. The controller may control various components of the washing machine (e.g., the drive motor, and the water supply valve). The controller may control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one operation including water supply, washing, rinsing, and/or spin-drying according to a user input. For example, the controller may control a drum motor to adjust the rotational speed of the drum or control the water supply valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

The controller may include hardware such as a CPU or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the controller may include at least one memory for storing an algorithm and program-type data for controlling the operation of components in the washing machine, and at least one processor configured to perform the above-mentioned operation by using the data stored in the at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor may include one or more processor chips or may include one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Alternatively, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

Hereinafter, a clothes treating apparatus according to various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. A dryer combined washing machine will be described as an example of the clothes treating apparatus, but the disclosure is not limited to the dryer combined washing machine, and may be applied to various apparatuses for treating and/or caring for clothes.

The terms “front”, “rear”, “left”, and “right”, etc., used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

For example, an X-axis direction may be defined as a first direction that represents a front-rear direction, a Y-axis direction may be defined as a second direction that represents a left-right direction, and a Z-axis direction may be defined as a third direction that represents an up-down direction.

FIG. 1 illustrates the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 illustrates components arranged inside the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment, viewed from a first direction. FIG. 4 illustrates components arranged inside the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment, viewed from a second direction. FIG. 5 illustrates components of the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment that are used to circulate water stored in a tub.

Referring to FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5, a clothes treating apparatus 1 according to various embodiments may include a housing 10 that accommodates various components therein. The housing 10 may have a box shape with a laundry inlet 11 formed on one side thereof. The laundry inlet 11 may be provided to face substantially the front.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a user interface 15 arranged on one side thereof. The user interface 15 may be provided for interaction between a user and the clothes treating apparatus 1. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

For example, the at least one input interface may convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal. The at least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a washing/rinsing/spin-drying setting button. The at least one input interface may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and/or a microphone, etc.

The at least one output interface may visually or audibly transmit information related to operations of the clothes treating apparatus 1 to a user. For example, the at least one output interface may transmit information related to a washing course and operating time of the clothes treating apparatus 1, and washing/rinsing/spin-drying settings to the user. The information about the operations of the clothes treating apparatus 1 may be output via a screen, an indicator, a voice, and the like. The at least one output interface may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, and the like.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include control circuitry 16 for controlling the user interface 15. The control circuitry 16 may be electrically connected to the user interface 15. The control circuitry 16 may supply power to the user interface 15. The control circuitry 16 may process information that is input via the user interface 15. The control circuitry 16 may control the user interface 15 to output information.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a laundry door 17 for opening and closing the laundry inlet 11. The laundry door 17 may be rotatably mounted on the housing 10 by hinges. At least a portion of the laundry door 17 may be transparent or translucent to allow the inside of the housing 10 to be visible. For example, the laundry door 17 may include tempered glass.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a lower door 18 configured to allow access to a lower detergent supply device 60. The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include an upper door 19 configured to allow access to an upper detergent supply device 50 and a filter 95.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a tub 20 provided inside the housing 10 to store water. The tub 20 may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape with a tub opening 21 formed on one side thereof, and may be disposed inside the housing 10 in such a way that the tub opening 21 corresponds to the laundry inlet 11. The tub opening 21 may be provided to face substantially the front.

The tub 20 may be connected to the housing 10 by a damper 25. The damper 25 may absorb vibration occurring when a drum 30 rotates to attenuate the vibration to be transmitted to the housing 10.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a diaphragm 22 for connecting the tub 20 and the housing 10. For example, the diaphragm 22 may extend between the laundry inlet 11 of the housing 10 and the tub opening 21 of the tub 20. The diaphragm 22 may be detachably mounted on the tub opening 21 of the tub 20. The diaphragm 22 may reduce the transmission of vibration of the tub 20 to the housing 10. For example, the diaphragm 22 may include a more flexible material than the housing 10 and the tub 20.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include the drum 30 to accommodate laundry. At least one lifter 33 may be provided inside the drum 30 to perform washing by lifting and dropping laundry.

The drum 30 may be disposed inside the tub 20 such that a drum opening 31 provided on one side thereof corresponds to the laundry inlet 11 and the tub opening 21. Laundry may sequentially pass through the laundry inlet 11, the diaphragm 22, the tub opening 21, and the drum opening 31 to be accommodated in the drum 30 or taken out from the drum 30. The drum opening 31 may be provided to face substantially the front.

The drum 30 may perform each operation according to washing, rinsing, and/or spin-drying while rotating in the tub 20. A plurality of through holes 32 may be formed in a cylindrical wall of the drum 30 to allow water stored in the tub 20 to be introduced into or to be discharged from the drum 30.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a drum motor 36 configured to rotate the drum 30. The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a rotating shaft for transmitting a driving force generated by the drum motor 36 to the drum 30. The rotating shaft may penetrate the tub 20 to be connected to the drum 30. The drum motor 36 may rotate the drum 30 in a forward or reverse direction during a washing operation, a rinsing operation, a spin-drying operation, and/or a drying operation.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a water supply device 40 configured to supply water to the tub 20. The water supply device 40 may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply device 40 may include water supply valves 41 and 42 capable of being connected to the external water supply source. For example, the water supply valves 41 and 42 may include the first water supply valve 41 and the second water supply valve 42. The first water supply valve 41 may correspond to the hot water valve for supplying hot water to the tub 20. The second water supply valve 42 may correspond to the cold water valve for supplying cold water to the tub 20.

The water supply device 40 may include water supply pipes 43 and 44. The water supply pipes 43 and 44 may be connected to the water supply valves 41 and 42. For example, the water supply pipes 43 and 44 may include the first water supply pipe 43 and the second water supply pipe 44. As an example, the water supply pipes 43 and 44 may be provided as flexible hoses or pipes, or the like. The first water supply pipe 43 may correspond to the hot water pipe connected to the first water supply valve 41. The second water supply pipe 44 may correspond to the cold water pipe connected to the second water supply valve 42.

At least one of the water supply pipes 43 or 44 may guide water from the water supply valves to the tub 20. At least one of the water supply pipes 43 or 44 may extend from water supply valve to the tub 20. For example, water may be supplied to the lower detergent supply device 60 via the tub 20. The water may also be supplied to the lower detergent supply device 60 without passing through the tub 20.

The water supply valves 41 and 42 may open or close the water supply pipes 43 and 44 in response to an electrical signal of the controller. The water supply valves 41 and 42 may allow or block the supply of water from the external water supply source to the tub 20. For example, the water supply valves 41 and 42 may include a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a washing water heater 24. The washing water heater 24 may be disposed below the tub 20 to heat washing water during washing. In addition, the water supply device 40 may supply a predetermined amount of water to the lower portion of the tub 20 through an exhaust flow path P during a drying operation, and the washing water heater 24 may heat water supplied to the inside of the tub 20 through the water supply device 40, the exhaust flow path P, and a tub exhaust port 27 to generate steam. That is, the steam generated by the water supply device 40 and the washing water heater 24 may come into contact with clothes (laundry) during the drying operation, thereby preventing wrinkles on the clothes.

That is, unlike existing dryers, the clothes treating apparatus 1 as a dryer combined washing machine may include the washing water heater 24 for heating washing water, and may generate steam by using the washing water heater 24 and the water supply device 40 for washing the exhaust flow path P, thereby preventing wrinkles on the clothes during the drying operation.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include the detergent supply devices 50 and 60 configured to supply a detergent to the tub 20. The detergent supply devices 50 and 60 may include the upper detergent supply device 50 and the lower detergent supply device 60. The detergent may be used as a term encompassing a detergent for pre-washing, a detergent for main washing, a fabric softener, a bleaching agent, etc.

The upper detergent supply device 50 may be positioned above the tub 20. The upper detergent supply device 50 may be positioned above the tub 20 in an up-down direction. The upper detergent supply device 50 may include a manual detergent supply device in which a user requires to supply a detergent each time washing, and/or an automatic detergent supply device configured to store a large amount of detergent and automatically supply a predetermined amount of detergent each time washing. The upper detergent supply device 50 may be connected to the tub 20 through a detergent connection pipe 51. For example, the upper detergent supply device 50 may supply a solid washing detergent and/or softener, etc., to the tub 20. The type of detergent is not limited to the above example.

The lower detergent supply device 60 may be positioned below the tub 20. The lower detergent supply device 60 may be positioned below the tub 20 in the up-down direction. The lower detergent supply device 60 may include a manual detergent supply device in which a user requires to supply a detergent each time washing, and/or an automatic detergent supply device configured to store a large amount of detergent and automatically supply a predetermined amount of detergent each time washing. For example, the lower detergent supply device 60 may supply a liquid washing detergent and/or softener, etc., to the tub 20. However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above example.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a drying device 80 for drying laundry accommodated in the drum 30. The drying device 80 may be configured to heat air and supply the heated air to the inside of the tub 20. The drying device 80 may dry and heat air discharged from the tub 20, and circulate the dry and heated air to the inside of the tub 20, thereby drying clothes in the drum 30. The drying device 80 according to various embodiments may be disposed above the tub 20.

The drying device 80 may include a drying case 81 in which a heat pump for drying air may be installed. The drying case 81 may include a drying base 81a and a drying cover 81b coupled to the drying base 81a to form a flow path through which air may move. The drying cover 81b may cover at least a portion of an open upper side of the drying base 81a.

The drying device 80 may be provided as a heat pump system. The drying device 80 may include a compressor 91, a condenser 92, an evaporator 93, an expansion valve, and a refrigerant pipe 94 through which refrigerant circulates. The compressor 91, the condenser 92, the evaporator 93, and the expansion valve may be arranged in the drying case 81. The drying device 80 may include a cooling fan 91a for cooling the compressor 91. For example, the drying device 80 may be mounted as a single module.

The compressor 91 may compress a refrigerant. The compressed high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant may move to the condenser 92. The condenser 92 may cool the refrigerant to heat the surrounding air. The heated air may be introduced into the drum 30 to dry the laundry.

The refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve may absorb heat in the evaporator 93 and cool the surrounding air. That is, the evaporator 93 may cool the hot and humid air that has passed through the inside of the drum 30 to remove moisture. The dehumidified air may pass through the condenser 92, and be heated again by exchanging heat with the refrigerant passing through the condenser 92. That is, the condenser 92 may heat the air that has passed through the evaporator 93. The condenser 92 and the evaporator 93 may be referred to as heat exchangers. The condenser 92 may be referred to as a ‘first heat exchanger’. The evaporator 93 may be referred to as a ‘second heat exchanger’.

The drying device 80 may include an inlet guide 84 connected to the tub 20. The inlet guide 84 may guide air discharged from the tub 20 into the drying case 81. The inlet guide 84 may be in communication with the exhaust flow path P formed in the tub 20. The air that has passed through the exhaust flow path P may be introduced into the drying device 80 through the inlet guide 84.

A first end of the inlet guide 84 may be connected to the tub 20, and a second end opposite to the first end of the inlet guide 84 may be connected to the drying case 81. For example, the inlet guide 84 may be provided to reduce the transmission of vibrations of the tub 20 to the drying device 80. The inlet guide 84 may include a more flexible material than the tub 20 and/or the drying case 81.

The drying device 80 may include the filter 95 for filtering foreign substances, such as lint, included in the air introduced from the tub 20 through the exhaust flow path P. The air introduced into the drying device 80 through the inlet guide 84 may pass through the filter 95 and then move to the evaporator 93 and the condenser 92. The filter 95 may be positioned on the flow path through which air introduced into the drying device 80 moves to the evaporator 93 and the condenser 92. The filter 95 may be detachably mounted on the drying case 81.

The condenser 92 and the evaporator 93 may be mounted on the drying case 81. The air introduced into the drying device 80 from the tub 20 may be humid, because the air has passed through the inside of the tub 20 and dried the laundry. The humid air may be cooled in the evaporator 93 of the drying device 80, and thus moisture may be removed. The air from which moisture has been removed in the evaporator 93 may pass through the condenser 92 and be heated again.

The drying device 80 may include a nozzle device 96 for cleaning the condenser 92 and/or the evaporator 93. For example, the nozzle device 96 may be mounted on the drying cover 81b of the drying case 81. The nozzle device 96 may be positioned above the condenser 92 and/or the evaporator 93. The nozzle device 96 may receive water from the water supply device 40 and spray cleaning water toward the condenser 92 and/or the evaporator 93.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a drain connection pipe 97 for guiding water discharged from the drying device 80. The drain connection pipe 97 may guide condensed water generated in the heat exchangers 92 and 93 of the drying device 80 to the outside of the drying device 80. The drain connection pipe 97 may guide the cleaning water, sprayed by the nozzle device 96 for cleaning the heat exchangers 92 and 93, to the outside of the drying device 80. For example, the drain connection pipe 97 may be connected to a drainage device 70. The water discharged from the drying device 80 may flow along the drain connection pipe 97 to the drainage device 70. The water introduced into the drainage device 70 through the drain connection pipe 97 may be discharged to the outside of the clothes treating apparatus 1.

The drying device 80 may include a fan device 100 for supplying the heated air that has passed through the condenser 92 back into the tub 20. The fan device 100 may be disposed on one side of the condenser 92. For example, the fan device 100 may be disposed on a second side of the condenser 92, opposite a first side where the evaporator 93 is disposed. The fan device 100 may extend downward toward the front to supply heated air into the drum 30. Because the fan device 100 is positioned on the second side of the condenser 92 opposite the first side where the evaporator 93 is located, the clothes treating apparatus 1 may have a space for the control circuitry 16 located at the front end of the clothes treating apparatus 1. The control circuitry 16 may be located between a portion of the fan device 100 and the filter 95 at the front end of the clothes treating apparatus 1.

The fan device 100 may be connected to the diaphragm 22. An end from which air is discharged from the fan device 100 may be connected to the diaphragm 22. The diaphragm 22 may include a diaphragm connection portion 22a connected to an end of the fan device 100. The air discharged from the fan device 100 may be supplied into the drum 30 through the diaphragm connection portion 22a.

As the drying device 80 is connected to the tub 20, air drying the laundry inside the drum 30 may circulate between the drying device 80 and the tub 20. The air discharged from the tub 20 may pass through the drying device 80 positioned above the tub 20, and then be supplied back into the tub 20.

The air heated by the drying device 80 may be supplied into the drum 30. To increase contact between the heated air supplied into the drum 30 and the laundry, the tub exhaust port 27 may be disposed at a position opposite to the diaphragm connection portion 22a that guides the air heated by drying device 90 to the tub 20. For example, the diaphragm connection portion 22a may be positioned at the front of the tub 20, while the tub exhaust port 27 may be positioned at the rear of the tub 20.

By disposing the diaphragm connection portion 22a and the tub exhaust port 27 at positions that face each other with the tub 20 in the center, a distance and/or time (residence time) that the heated air flows inside the drum 30 may increase, the contact between the heated air and the laundry may increase, and thus drying efficiency and/or drying performance may increase.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may further include the exhaust flow path P through which air discharged from the tub 20 flows to the drying device 80. The exhaust flow path P may be provided to allow air discharged from the tub exhaust port 27 to flow to the inlet guide 84 of the drying device 80. The exhaust flow path P may discharge humid air that has passed through the tub 20. For example, the exhaust flow path P may be disposed at the rear of the tub 20.

Air in the tub 20 may be discharged to a tub duct 28 through the tub exhaust port 27 formed on the rear side of the tub 20. The air discharged to the tub duct 28 may flow along the exhaust flow path P and be supplied to the drying device 80.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 according to various embodiments may include the tub duct 28 for forming at least a portion of the exhaust flow path P. For example, the tub duct 28 may be formed integrally with the tub 20. For example, the tub 20 may include the tub duct 28. The tub duct 28 may surround the tub exhaust port 27.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 according to various embodiments may include a duct cover 29 for forming at least a portion of the exhaust flow path P. The duct cover 29 may cover an open rear side of the tub duct 28. For example, the tub 20 may include the duct cover 29. The duct cover 29 may form at least a portion of the exhaust flow path P through which air discharged through the tub exhaust port 27 flows to the drying device 80.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a tub sealing member 29a for sealing between the tub duct 28 and the duct cover 29. The tub sealing member 29a may be provided along the edge of the tub duct 28 and/or the duct cover 29. The tub sealing member 29a may include a more flexible material than the tub duct 28 and/or the duct cover 29.

In the clothes treating apparatus 1 according to various embodiments, the exhaust flow path P may be formed by coupling the duct cover 29 to the tub duct 28.

The tub duct 28 according to an embodiment may include a recess portion 28a forming a portion of the exhaust flow path P through which air discharged from the tub 20 flows. A reinforcing rib 23 may be provided on the rear surface of the tub 20 to reinforce the rigidity of the tub 20, and the recess portion 28a may be formed by being recessed from an end of the reinforcing rib 23 protruding from the rear surface of the tub 20. The recess portion 28a may correspond to a portion of the rear surface of the tub 20 where the reinforcing rib 23 is not formed. The tub exhaust port 27 may be formed at the recess portion 28a to discharge air from the inside of the tub 20.

The tub duct 28 may include a partition rib 28d provided along a circumference of the recess portion 28a. The partition rib 28d may divide a region in which the reinforcing rib 23 is formed and a region in which the recess portion 28a is formed, on the rear surface of the tub 20.

The tub duct 28 according to an embodiment may include a duct connection portion 28b forming another portion of the exhaust flow path P through which air that has passed through the recess portion 28a flows. The duct connection portion 28b may protrude outward from an outer circumferential surface of the tub 20. The duct connection portion 28b may protrude substantially upward from the outer circumferential surface of the tub 20.

The duct connection portion 28b may allow the drying device 80 and the recess portion 28a to communicate with each other. The duct connection portion 28b may be connected to inlet guide 84 of the drying device 80. The duct connection portion 28b may form a single passage constituting the exhaust flow path P together with the recess portion 28a and the duct cover 29.

The duct connection portion 28b may be covered by the duct cover 29. The duct connection portion 28b may be open on one side. The duct cover 29 may cover the open side of the duct connection portion 28b.

The duct cover 29 may cover both the recess portion 28a and the duct connection portion 28b. For example, the duct cover 29 may cover both an open side of the recess portion 28a and an open side of the duct connection portion 28b. The exhaust flow path P may be formed by the duct cover 29 covering the recess portion 28a and the duct connection portion 28b. For example, the duct cover 29 may cover only the recess portion 28a.

The duct cover 29 may cover an open rear side of the recess portion 28a and/or an open rear side of the duct connection portion 28b. The exhaust flow path P may be a single passage formed together by the tub duct 28 and the duct cover 29.

The tub duct 28 may include a step portion 28c for expanding a cross-sectional area of the exhaust flow path P, the area being defined perpendicular to the airflow direction in the exhaust flow path P. The exhaust flow path P may be provided such that a width of a portion formed by the duct connection portion 28b is larger than a width of a portion formed in the recess portion 28a due to the step portion 28c. The step portion 28c may be formed such that the cross-sectional area of the exhaust flow path P increases along the airflow direction. Accordingly, the clothes treating apparatus 1 may secure the size of the exhaust flow path P due to the step portion 28c, and may efficiently use the internal space of the housing 10.

The position of the water supply valves 41 and 42 may be determined by utilizing the remaining space created by the above-described structure. For example, the water supply valves 41 and 42 may be mounted between the inlet guide 84 and the cooling fan 91a. The water supply valves 41 and 42 may be positioned at a central portion of the rear surface of the drying device 80. The water supply valves 41 and 42 may be positioned behind the condenser 92. The water supply valves 41 and 42 may be positioned in a region partitioned from a flow path through which dry air flows. However, the position of the water supply valves 41 and 42 is not limited thereto. For example, the water supply valves 41 and 42 may be mounted on a rear end of the drying case 81.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include the drainage device 70 configured to discharge water stored in the tub 20 to the outside. The drainage device 70 may include a drainage pump 71 for discharging water in the tub 20 to the outside of the housing 10. The drainage device 70 may be connected to the tub 20 through a tub connection pipe 72. The water in the tub 20 may be introduced into the drainage pump 71 through the tub connection pipe 72. The drainage device 70 may discharge water from the tub 20 to the outside of the housing 10 through the drain pipe 73.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a circulation pump 210 for circulating water stored in the tub 20 back to the tub 20. The circulation pump 210 may include a pump motor 211 for pumping water. Operation of the pump motor 211 may discharge water from the tub 20, and the water discharged from the tub 20 may be introduced back into the tub 20 through the circulation pump 210. According to the operation of the circulation pump 210, the water discharged from the tub 20 may also pass through the lower detergent supply device 60 and then be introduced into the tub 20.

The circulation pump 210 may be connected to the tub 20 through a tub connection pipe 213. The water in the tub 20 may be introduced into the circulation pump 210 through the tub connection pipe 213. The tub connection pipe 72 connecting the drainage device 70 and the tub 20 may be referred to as a first tub connection pipe. The tub connection pipe 213 connecting the circulation pump 210 and the tub 20 may be referred to as a second tub connection pipe. One end of the second tub connection pipe may be branched from the first tub connection pipe or directly connected to the tub 20.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a flow path switching device 220 for guiding water discharged from the circulation pump 210 to an upper portion of the diaphragm 22 or a lower portion of the tub 20. The upper portion of the diaphragm 22 may be defined as various positions higher than the center of the diaphragm 22 having a circular shape. The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a first pipe 221 connected to the upper portion of the diaphragm 22 and a second pipe 222 connected to the lower portion of the tub 20. A nozzle connected to the first pipe 221 may be provided on the upper portion of the diaphragm 22. The first pipe 221 may connect the upper portion of the diaphragm 22 and the flow path switching device 220. The second pipe 222 may connect the lower portion of the tub 20 and the flow path switching device 220. The first pipe 221 may be referred to as ‘circulation flow path’. The second pipe may be referred to as ‘bubble flow path’.

The circulation pump 210 may be connected to the flow path switching device 220 through a pump connection pipe 214. The water discharged from the circulation pump 210 may be guided to the flow path switching device 220 through the pump connection pipe 214.

The flow path switching device 220 may guide the water discharged from the tub 20 to the first pipe 221 or the second pipe 222 through the circulation pump 210. The flow path of water may be determined as the first pipe 221 or the second pipe 222 depending on whether the flow path switching device 220 operates.

For example, when the flow path switching device 220 operates, water may be guided to the first pipe 221. The water may pass through the first pipe 221 and then be sprayed into the drum 30 from the upper portion of the diaphragm 22. The water sprayed into the drum 30 from the upper portion of the diaphragm 22 may improve the washing performance on the laundry accommodated in the drum 30.

When the operation of the flow path switching device 220 stops, water may be guided to the second pipe 222. The water may pass through the second pipe 222 and then be introduced into the tub 20 from the lower portion of the tub 20. The water introduced to the lower portion of the tub 20 may increase the agitation of water stored in the tub 20, which may improve the washing performance on the laundry.

Meanwhile, dust and/or lint may float in the tub 20 and the drum 30 while the clothes treating apparatus 1 performs a drying operation. Dust and/or lint may enter the first pipe 221, and may cause narrowing and/or blockage of the first pipe 221. When the first pipe 221 is narrowed and/or blocked, the water spray from the upper portion of the diaphragm 22 may decrease or stop, which reduces the washing performance. Accordingly, when the first pipe 221 is narrowed and/or blocked, the operation of the clothes treating apparatus 1 requires to be optimized to maintain washing performance.

FIG. 6 is a control block diagram of the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 6, the clothes treating apparatus 1 may include various components and/or devices, and may include a controller 300 electrically connected to the various components and/or devices. The controller 300 may include the control circuitry 16 described above. For example, the controller 300 may control the drum motor 36, the water supply device 40, the drainage device 70, the drying device 80, the circulation pump 210, and the flow path switching device 220. In addition, the controller 300 may control the user interface 15 and communication interface 150.

The controller 300 may include a processor 310 and memory 320. The memory 320 may include a volatile memory (e.g., a static random access memory (S-RAM) and a dynamic random access memory (D-RAM)) and a non-volatile memory (e.g., a read only memory (ROM) and an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM)). The processor 310 and the memory 320 may be implemented as separate chips or as a single chip. In addition, a plurality of processors and a plurality of memories may be provided.

The processor 310 may process various data and signals using instructions, data, programs, and/or software stored in the memory 320. The processor 310 may include a single core or a plurality of cores. The processor 310 may generate a control signal to control the components of the clothes treating apparatus 1.

The processor 310 may be configured to perform various operations of the clothes treating apparatus 1. The processor 310 may perform the operations of the clothes treating apparatus 1 according to various embodiments by executing at least one instruction, algorithm, program, and/or software stored in the memory 320. The processor 310 may control one or any combination of the components of the clothes treating apparatus 1.

The processor 310 may include various types of circuits. For example, the processor 310 may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), a many integrated core (MIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a neural processing unit (NPU), a hardware accelerator, or a machine learning accelerator.

The processor 310 may control various components of the clothes treating apparatus 1 to perform a washing operation, a rinsing operation, a spin-drying operation, and/or a drying operation. The processor 310 may be electrically connected to various components and/or devices of the clothes treating apparatus 1, and may control the various components and/or devices.

For example, the processor 310 may control the user interface 15 to output various information related to operations of the clothes treating apparatus 1. The user interface 15 may visually and/or audibly output information related to an operation course, operating time, washing settings, rinsing settings, spin-drying settings, and/or drying settings of the clothes treating apparatus 1. In addition, the user interface 15 may output information about abnormal state of the clothes treating apparatus 1.

The user interface 15 may provide a user interface for interaction between a user and the clothes treating apparatus 1. The user interface 15 may include at least one input interface 15a and at least one output interface 15b. The user interface 15 may obtain various user inputs and output various information related to operations of the clothes treating apparatus 1.

The input interface 15a may include various buttons and/or dials. For example, the input interface 15a may include a power button, a start/stop button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a washing setting button, a rinsing setting button, a spin-drying setting button, and/or a drying setting button.

The output interface 15b may visually and/or audibly transmit information related to operations of the clothes treating apparatus 1 to a user. Information about operations of the clothes treating apparatus 1 may be output as an image, text, indicator, and/or voice. In addition, the output interface 15b may display a graphic user interface (GUI) that enables control of the clothes treating apparatus 1. That is, a display may display a user interface element, such as an icon.

The output interface 15b may include at least one of a display or a speaker. The display may also be used as an input device including a touch screen.

The processor 310 may control operations of the clothes treating apparatus 1 based on user input obtained via the user interface 15 or a user device. For example, the controller 300 may turn on or turn off the clothes treating apparatus 1 based on a user input for turning on or turning off the clothes treating apparatus 1. The controller 300 may determine an operation course of the clothes treating apparatus 1 based on a user input for setting the operation course of the clothes treating apparatus 1. A variety of operation courses of the clothes treating apparatus 1 may be provided. For example, the operation course of the clothes treating apparatus 1 may be broadly classified into a washing course and a drying course.

A variety of washing courses may be provided according to a type of laundry (e.g., clothing, bedclothes, underwear, etc.) and a material of laundry (e.g., cotton, wool, nylon, etc.). For example, the washing course may include at least one of standard washing, intense washing, delicate clothes washing, bedclothes washing, baby clothes washing, towel washing, boiling washing, or dry cleaning. Each of the plurality of washing courses may include different washing settings (e.g., washing temperature, number of times of rinsing, strength of spin-drying, and the like).

In response to a selection of one of the plurality of washing courses through the user interface 15 or an external user device, the processor 310 may control the clothes treating apparatus 1 to perform a washing operation, a rinsing operation, and a spin-drying operation corresponding to the selected washing course. In addition, the washing course may include a rinsing and spin-drying course, a rinsing course, and a spin-drying course that do not include a washing operation. The washing courses are not limited to the above examples. The washing course may also include a drying operation.

A variety of drying courses may also be provided according to a type of an object to be dried (e.g., clothing, bedclothes, underwear, etc.) and a material of an object to be dried (e.g., cotton, wool, nylon, etc.). For example, the drying course may include at least one of standard drying, intense drying, delicate clothes drying, bedclothes drying, baby clothes drying, towel drying, or outdoor clothes drying. Each of the plurality of drying courses may include different drying settings (e.g., drying temperature, drying time, and the like). In response to a selection of one of the plurality of drying courses through the user interface 15 or an external user device, the processor 310 may control the clothes treating apparatus 1 to perform a drying operation corresponding to the selected drying course. The drying course may also be included as a drying operation in the washing course. The drying course is not limited to the above examples.

A washing-drying course that is set to sequentially perform a washing operation, a rinsing operation, a spin-drying operation, and a drying operation may also be provided.

The communication interface 150 may include various communication circuitry for performing a wired communication and/or wireless communication with an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and/or another home appliance). The communication interface 150 may correspond to the communication module described above. A user device may include various electronic devices, such as a smartphone, a laptop, a smart watch, a stationary type tablet, and a speaker. A user input may be obtained not only through the user interface 15 but also through a user device.

The drum motor 36 may rotate the drum 30 under the control of processor 310. The drum 30 may rotate in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction according to the operation of the drum motor 36. The rotation direction of the drum 30 may be periodically reversed. The processor 310 may control the drum motor 36 to adjust a rotation speed of the drum 30.

The water supply device 40 may selectively supply water to the tub 20 and the nozzle device 96. The water supply device 40 may include the water supply pipes 43 and 44 connected to an external water supply source, and the water supply valves 41 and 42 that open or close the water supply pipes. The water supply device 40 may include the first water supply valve 41 and the second water supply valve 42. As described above, the first water supply valve 41 may correspond to the hot water valve. The second water supply valve 42 may correspond to the cold water valve. The water supply pipes 43 and 44 may include the first water supply pipe 43 corresponding to the hot water pipe and the second water supply pipe 44 corresponding to the cold water pipe.

The processor 310 may control the opening and closing of each of the first water supply valve 41 and the second water supply valve 42. The processor 310 may adjust an opening degree of each of the first water supply valve 41 and the second water supply valve 42. The first water supply valve 41 may open or close the first water supply pipe based on an electrical signal transmitted from the processor 310. The second water supply valve 42 may open or close the second water supply pipe based on an electrical signal transmitted from the processor 310.

The drainage device 70 may discharge water in the tub 20 to the outside of the housing 10. The processor 310 may control the drainage device 70 to discharge water from the tub 20 to the outside through the drain pipe 73. For example, the processor 310 may control the drainage pump 71 included in the drainage device 70.

The drying device 80 may remove moisture from the air, heat the air, and supply the heated air to the tub 20. The processor 310 may operate the drying device 80 to dry laundry in the drum 30. The processor 310 may control the drying device 80 to generate dried and heated air.

The processor 310 may control the fan device 100, the compressor 91, and the expansion valve included in the drying device 80. The processor 310 may operate the fan device 100 to supply dried and heated air into the drum 30. The processor 310 may adjust a rotation speed of the fan device 100. The flow rate of air supplied into the drum 30 may vary depending on the rotation speed of the fan device 100.

The compressor 91 compresses low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant and discharges high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. For example, the compressor 91 may compress the refrigerant by a reciprocating motion of a piston or a rotating motion of a rotor. The discharged gaseous refrigerant may be transmitted to the condenser 92. The processor 310 may adjust an operating frequency and/or revolutions per minute (RPM) of the compressor 91. As the operating frequency and/or RPM of the compressor 91 increases, the heat released around the condenser 92 may increase.

The processor 310 may adjust the opening degree of the expansion valve. The expansion valve may be provided as a capillary tube for adjusting a pressure of liquid refrigerant and an electronic expansion valve whose opening degree may be adjusted by an electrical signal. The low-temperature, low-pressure two-phase refrigerant that has passed through the expansion valve may flow into the evaporator 93.

The processor 310 may control the circulation pump 210 to circulate water in the tub 20. The circulation pump 210 may include the pump motor 211 for pumping water. The pump motor 211 may be a brushless DC (BLDC) motor. Operation of the pump motor 211 may discharge water from the tub 20, and the water discharged from the tub 20 may be introduced back into the tub 20 through the circulation pump 210. According to the operation of the circulation pump 210, the water discharged from the tub 20 may also pass through the lower detergent supply device 60 and then be introduced into the tub 20.

The pump motor 211 may include a motor control circuit. The motor control circuit may be built into the pump motor 211. The motor control circuit may correspond to a motor driving integrated circuit. The motor control circuit of the pump motor 211 may control the operation of the pump motor 211 according to a control signal transmitted from the processor 310. When a driving signal is applied to the pump motor 211, the pump motor 211 may rotate at a rotation speed corresponding to the driving signal. The rotation speed of the pump motor 211 may be expressed in revolutions per minute (RPM). The driving signal may correspond to a driving voltage, driving current, and/or driving power.

During the operation of the pump motor 211, the pump motor 211 may transmit a feedback voltage value to the processor 310. The feedback voltage value output by the pump motor 211 may vary due to various causes. For example, the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 may vary depending on the state of the first pipe 221 (i.e., the circulation flow path). When the first pipe 221 is in an abnormal state, the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 may decrease. In other words, in a case where the first pipe 221 is narrowed and/or blocked, the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 may be less than a reference voltage value. The reference voltage value may be predetermined and may vary depending on the design.

The processor 310 may identify whether the first pipe 221 is narrowed and/or blocked based on the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211. For example, the processor 310 may identify the feedback voltage value as abnormal based on the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 being less than the reference voltage value. As the feedback voltage value is identified as abnormal, the processor 310 may determine that the first pipe 221 is narrowed and/or blocked.

Whether the first pipe 221 is narrowed and/or blocked may also be determined by a feedback current value of the pump motor 211. The processor 310 may identify the feedback current value as abnormal based on the feedback current value of the pump motor 211 being less than a reference current value, and may determine that the first pipe 221 is narrowed and/or blocked.

The flow path switching device 220 may guide water discharged from the circulation pump 210 to the upper portion of the diaphragm 22 or the lower portion of the tub 20. The flow path switching device 220 may guide water, discharged from the tub 20 through the circulation pump 210, to the first pipe 221 corresponding to the circulation flow path or the second pipe 222 corresponding to the bubble flow path. The first pipe 221 may connect the upper portion of the diaphragm 22 and the flow path switching device 220. The second pipe 222 may connect the lower portion of the tub 20 and the flow path switching device 220.

The processor 310 may control the operation of the flow path switching device 220. The flow path switching device 220 may be turned on or off under the control of the processor 310. When the flow path switching device 220 operates, the first pipe 221 may be opened and the second pipe 222 may be closed. When the flow path switching device 220 operates, water may be guided to the first pipe 221. When the operation of flow path switching device 220 stops, water may be guided to the second pipe 222.

In other words, when the flow path switching device 220 is turned on, water may move to the upper portion of the diaphragm 22 through the first pipe 221, and may not flow to the second pipe 222. When the flow path switching device 220 is turned off, water may be blocked from flowing to the first pipe 221, and may flow to the tub 20 through the second pipe 222.

The flow path switching device 220 may be provided as various types of valves. For example, the flow path switching device 220 may be a thermal actuator valve. The flow path switching device 220 may consume power during operation, and may not consume power when its operation stops.

The processor 310 may control the pump motor 211 of the circulation pump 210 and the flow path switching device 220 to allow water to flow to the first pipe 221 or the second pipe 222 according to execution of a washing course.

The processor 310 may identify whether the feedback voltage value obtained from the pump motor 211 is normal. The processor 310 may obtain the feedback voltage value after a standby time has elapsed from the start of operation of the pump motor 211. The standby time may be predetermined and may vary depending on the design.

The processor 310 may control the flow path switching device 220 to block the flow of water to the first pipe 221 and guide water to the second pipe 222, based on the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 being identified as abnormal. For example, in a case where the feedback voltage value is less than the reference voltage value, the processor 310 may identify the feedback voltage value as abnormal, and may stop operating the flow path switching device 220.

The processor 310 may control the flow path switching device 220 using flow path setting information stored in the memory 320. For example, the flow path setting information may include period information for dividing at least one of a washing operation or a rinsing operation into at least one first period using the first pipe 221 and at least one second period using the second pipe 222. In addition, the flow path setting information may include control information for turning on the flow path switching device 220 during the first period to use the first pipe 221, and turning off the flow path switching device 220 during the second period to use the second pipe 222. The flow path setting information corresponding to each of various washing courses may be stored in the memory 320. A washing operation and/or rinsing operation included in each of the various washing courses may have a plurality of periods.

Based on the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 being identified as abnormal, the processor 310 may change the flow path setting information to allow the second pipe 222 to be used instead of the first pipe 221 during at least one first period included in the washing operation and/or the rinsing operation. When the washing operation and/or the rinsing operation are performed again later, the processor 310 may stop operating the flow path switching device 220 to allow the second pipe 222 to be used during all periods of the washing operation and/or the rinsing operation according to the changed flow path setting information. Accordingly, the flow of water to the first pipe 221 that is narrowed and/or blocked may be blocked (prevented).

In addition, based on the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 being identified as abnormal, the processor 310 may stop operating the flow path switching device 220 and control the drum motor 36 to increase the rotation speed of the drum 30. During the washing operation and the rinsing operation, the rotation speed of the drum 30 when using the bubble flow path (the second pipe 222) may be faster than when using the circulation flow path (the first pipe 221). Because water dropping occurs when using the circulation flow path, the cleaning power of water circulating through the circulation flow path may be stronger than that of water circulating through the bubble flow path. Washing performance may be reduced when using the bubble flow path instead of the circulation flow path. Accordingly, the clothes treating apparatus 1 may compensate for the reduced washing performance by increasing the rotation speed of the drum 30 in a case where the bubble flow path is used instead of the circulation flow path.

The processor 310 may perform a cleaning process on the first pipe 221 after the washing course ends. For example, the processor 310 may start the cleaning process on the first pipe 221 after the end of washing course that includes the currently performing washing operation, rinsing operation, and spin-drying operation.

To perform the cleaning process on the first pipe 221, the processor 310 may control the water supply device 40 to supply hot water to the tub 20. Once the supply of hot water is complete, the processor 310 may operate the pump motor 211 and the flow path switching device 220. The processor 310 may set a rotation speed of the pump motor 211 to a maximum in the cleaning process. By supplying hot water to the first pipe 221, various foreign substances (e.g., grease, detergent residue, etc.) may be removed from the first pipe 221.

The processor 310 may operate the drainage device 70 to drain any remaining water from the tub 20 before supplying hot water to the tub 20. In addition, the processor 310 may operate the drying device 80 for a heating time to increase a temperature inside the tub 20 before supplying hot water to the tub 20. Increasing the temperature inside the tub 20 may facilitate removal of various foreign substances (e.g., grease, detergent residue, etc.) from the first pipe 221.

The processor 310 may monitor the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 while operating the pump motor 211 and the flow path switching device 220. The processor 310 may determine whether to end the cleaning process depending on whether the feedback voltage value is identified as normal. For example, the processor 310 may end the cleaning process in response to the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 being identified as normal within a cleaning time (e.g., 10 minutes). The cleaning time may be predetermined and may vary depending on the design.

In response to the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 being identified as abnormal during the cleaning time (e.g., 10 minutes), the processor 310 may provide notification information about blockage of the first pipe 221 (circulation flow path) via the user interface 15 and end the cleaning process. The notification information about blockage of the first pipe 221 may be provided via at least one of the output interface 15b of the user interface 15 or a user device.

The notification information about blockage of the first pipe 221 may include information to notify a user of the narrowing and/or blockage of the first pipe 221, as well as cleaning guidance information to guide cleaning of the first pipe 221. The clothes treating apparatus 1 may assist the user in manually cleaning the first pipe 221 by providing the cleaning guidance information for the first pipe 221. The notification information about blockage of the first pipe 221 may be provided in various forms. For example, the notification information may be provided as at least one of text, image, animation, voice, sound effect, or vibration.

FIG. 7 are graphs illustrating a feedback voltage of the pump motor and a rotation speed of the pump motor when the circulation flow path included in the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment is in a normal state.

Referring to a graph 700 of FIG. 7, the pump motor 211 of the circulation pump 210 may operate according to a driving signal. The pump motor 211 is illustrated as operating from time t1 to t2, stopping from time t2 to t3, and operating again from time t3 to t4. When a driving signal is applied to the pump motor 211 at times t1 and t3, a rotation speed (RPM) of the pump motor 211 may increase. The rotation speed of the pump motor 211 may be maintained at a reference rotation speed R_ref until times t2 and t4 when the application of the driving signal stops.

During the operation of the pump motor 211, the pump motor 211 may output a feedback voltage value. The feedback voltage value may be detected relatively large for a short time from each of times t1 and t3, when the driving signal is applied to the pump motor 211. After the short time from the time at which the driving signal is applied, a feedback voltage value within an error range of a reference voltage value may be detected.

When the circulation flow path (the first pipe 221) is in a normal state (i.e., in a case where the first pipe 221 is not narrowed and/or blocked), the pump motor 211 may output a feedback voltage value that follows the reference voltage value V_ref. For example, when the circulation flow path is in a normal state, the pump motor 211 may output a feedback voltage value greater than or equal to the reference voltage value V_ref. An average value or minimum value of the feedback voltage that is output by the pump motor 211 may be greater than or equal to the reference voltage value V_ref. In addition, a difference between a maximum value of the feedback voltage and the reference voltage value may be relatively small.

FIG. 8 are graphs illustrating a feedback voltage of the pump motor and a rotation speed of the pump motor when the circulation flow path included in the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment is in an abnormal state.

Referring to a graph 800 of FIG. 8, the pump motor 211 is illustrated as operating from time ta to tb according to a driving signal, stopping from time tb to tc, and operating again from time tc to td. When a driving signal is applied to the pump motor 211 at times ta and tc, the rotation speed (RPM) of the pump motor 211 may increase. The rotation speed of the pump motor 211 may be maintained at a reference rotation speed R_ref until times tb and td when the application of the driving signal stops. Because the rotation speed of the pump motor 211 is determined by the driving signal, even in a case where the circulation flow path is in an abnormal state, the rotation speed of the pump motor 211 may be the reference rotation speed R_ref.

A feedback voltage value output by the pump motor 211 may vary due to various causes. For example, the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 may vary depending on the state of the first pipe 221 (i.e., the circulation flow path).

When the circulation flow path (the first pipe 221) is in an abnormal state (i.e., in a case where the first pipe 221 is narrowed and/or blocked), a feedback voltage value V_stuck that is output by the pump motor 211 may generally be detected to be less than the reference voltage value V_ref. Accordingly, in a case where the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 is less than the reference voltage value V_ref while the circulation pump 210 and the flow path switching device 220 are operating, the clothes treating apparatus 1 may determine the circulation flow path as being in an abnormal state.

The feedback voltage value may be detected relatively large for a short time from each of times ta and tc, when the driving signal is applied to the pump motor 211. For example, from time ta to tw, the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 may be greater than the reference voltage value V_ref. In a case where the circulation flow path (the first pipe 221) is in an abnormal state, a difference between a maximum value of the feedback voltage and the reference voltage value V_ref may be relatively large. Accordingly, by detecting the feedback voltage value after a standby time (e.g., the time interval from time ta to tw) has elapsed from the start of operation of the pump motor 211, the state of the circulation flow path may be determined more accurately.

FIG. 9 is a table illustrating flow path setting information for controlling the flow path switching device during a washing operation and/or a rinsing operation.

Referring to a table 900 of FIG. 9, the processor 310 of the clothes treating apparatus 1 may control the flow path switching device 220 to allow the circulation flow path (the first pipe 221) and the bubble flow path (the second pipe 222) to be selectively used during a washing operation and/or a rinsing operation, by using flow path setting information stored in the memory 320. The flow path setting information corresponding to each of various washing courses may be stored in the memory 320. A washing operation and/or rinsing operation included in each of the various washing courses may have a plurality of periods.

The processor 310 may divide a washing operation and/or a rinsing operation into at least one first period using the circulation flow path and at least one second period using the bubble flow path. The processor 310 may turn on the flow path switching device 220 to allow water to flow to the circulation flow path during the first period, and turn off the flow path switching device 220 to allow water to flow to the bubble flow path during the second period.

When the circulation flow path is in a normal state, the processor 310 may control the flow path switching device 220 to allow the circulation flow path and the bubble flow path to be alternately used during a washing operation and/or a rinsing operation. In other words, throughout the washing operation and/or the rinsing operation, the first period using the circulation flow path and the second period using the bubble flow path may be alternately arranged. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the first and third washing/rinsing may correspond to the first period. The second and fourth washing/rinsing may correspond to the second period.

However, in a case where the circulation flow path is in an abnormal state, the processor 310 may turn off the flow path switching device 220 to allow the bubble flow path to be used instead of the circulation flow path during a washing operation and/or a rinsing operation, and may change the flow path setting information. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the flow path switching device 220 may be turned off to allow the bubble flow path to be used instead of the circulation flow path during the first and third washing/rinsing.

When the washing operation and/or the rinsing operation are performed again later, the processor 310 may stop operating the flow path switching device 220 to allow the bubble flow path to be used during all periods of the washing operation and/or the rinsing operation according to the changed flow path setting information. Accordingly, the flow of water to the circulation flow path that is narrowed and/or blocked may be prevented.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example operation course performed by the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 10, the clothes treating apparatus 1 may perform various operations as various operation courses are selected. The clothes treating apparatus 1 may selectively perform at least one of a washing operation 1001, a rinsing operation 1002, a spin-drying operation 1003, or a drying operation 1004 according to the operation course.

For example, the clothes treating apparatus 1 may perform the washing operation 1001, the rinsing operation 1002, and the spin-drying operation 1003 in response to a selection of a washing course. The clothes treating apparatus 1 may perform the washing operation 1001, the rinsing operation 1002, the spin-drying operation 1003, and the drying operation 1004 in response to a selection of a washing-drying course. The clothes treating apparatus 1 may perform the rinsing operation 1002 and the spin-drying operation 1003 in response to a selection of a rinsing-spin-drying course. The clothes treating apparatus 1 may perform the spin-drying operation 1003 in response to a selection of a spin-drying course. The clothes treating apparatus 1 may perform only the drying operation 1004 in response to a selection of a drying course. Hereinafter, the operation of the clothes treating apparatus 1 is described below using an example where a washing-drying course is selected.

To perform the washing operation 1001, the processor 310 of the clothes treating apparatus 1 may control the detergent supply devices 50 and 60 to supply washing detergent to the tub 20. The processor 310 may control the water supply device 40 to supply water to the tub 20. The processor 310 may control the drum motor 36 to rotate the drum 30. The washing operation 1001 may be performed one or more times. While the washing operation 1001 is performed, the processor 310 may control the circulation pump 210 and the flow path switching device 220 to allow water in the tub 20 to circulate through the circulation flow path (the first pipe 221) and/or the bubble flow path (the second pipe 222).

Once the washing operation 1001 is completed, the clothes treating apparatus 1 may perform the rinsing operation 1002. The rinsing operation 1002 may be performed one or more times. The processor 310 may control the drum motor 36 to rotate the drum 30. To perform the rinsing operation 1002, the processor 310 may control the water supply device 40 to supply water to the tub 20. The processor 310 may also control the detergent supply devices 50 and 60 to supply a rinsing aid to the tub 20. While the rinsing operation 1002 is performed, the processor 310 may control the circulation pump 210 and the flow path switching device 220 to allow water in the tub 20 to circulate through the circulation flow path (the first pipe 221) and/or the bubble flow path (the second pipe 222).

Once the rinsing operation 1002 is completed, the clothes treating apparatus 1 may perform the spin-drying operation 1003. The processor 310 may control the drainage device 70 to discharge detergent and/or water from the tub 20. The processor 310 may rotate the drum 30 at a relatively high speed. By rotating the drum 30 rapidly, detergent and/or water absorbed in the laundry may be removed through centrifugal force.

Once the spin-drying operation 1003 is completed, the clothes treating apparatus 1 may perform the drying operation 1004. To perform the drying operation 1004, the processor 310 may control the drying device 80 that supplies hot air into the drum 30. In addition, the processor 310 may rotate the drum 30 at a relatively low speed.

Once the drying operation 1004 is completed, the processor 310 may end the washing-drying course. The processor 310 may stop operating the clothes treating apparatus 1 and turn off the clothes treating apparatus 1.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 11, the processor 310 of the clothes treating apparatus 1 may control the pump motor 211 of the circulation pump 210 and the flow path switching device 220 to allow water to flow to the first pipe 221 or the second pipe 222 according to execution of a washing course (1101). The washing course may be selected and executed based on a user input obtained via the user interface 15 or a user device. The washing course may include various operations. For example, the washing course may include a washing operation, a rinsing operation, and a spin-drying operation. The washing course may further include a drying operation.

The processor 310 may obtain a feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 while the pump motor 211 and the flow path switching device 220 are operating (1102). The feedback voltage value output by the pump motor 211 may vary due to various causes. For example, the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 may vary depending on the state of the first pipe 221 (i.e., the circulation flow path). In a case where the first pipe 221 is in an abnormal state, the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 may decrease.

The processor 310 may identify whether the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 is normal (1103). In a case where the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 is abnormal, the processor 310 may control the flow path switching device 220 to block the flow of water to the first pipe 221 (1104). The processor 310 may stop operating the flow path switching device 220 to block the flow of water to the first pipe 221 and guide water to the second pipe 222. In a case where the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 is normal, the processor 310 may not perform controlling the flow path switching device 220 for blocking the flow of water to the first pipe 221.

In addition, the processor 310 may stop operating the flow path switching device 220 and control the drum motor 36 to increase a rotation speed of the drum 30, based on the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 being identified as abnormal.

The processor 310 may perform a cleaning process on the first pipe 221 after the washing course ends (1105). For example, the processor 310 may start the cleaning process on the first pipe 221 after the end of washing course that includes the currently performing washing operation, rinsing operation, and spin-drying operation.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the method for controlling the clothes treating apparatus described in FIG. 11 in more detail.

Referring to FIG. 12, operation 1201 may correspond to operation 1101 of FIG. 11. The processor 310 of the clothes treating apparatus 1 may obtain the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 after a standby time has elapsed from the start of operation of the pump motor 211 (1202, 1203). The feedback voltage value may be detected relatively large for a short time from the start of operation of the pump motor 211. Accordingly, by detecting the feedback voltage value after the standby time has elapsed from the start of operation of the pump motor 211, the state of the circulation flow path may be determined more accurately.

The processor 310 may compare the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 with a reference voltage value (1204). In a case where the first pipe 221 is narrowed and/or blocked, the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 may be less than the reference voltage value. In a case where the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 is less than the reference voltage value, the processor 310 may identify the feedback voltage value as abnormal, and may determine that the first pipe 221 is narrowed and/or blocked.

Whether the first pipe 221 is narrowed and/or blocked may also be determined by a feedback current value of the pump motor 211. The processor 310 may identify the feedback current value as abnormal based on the feedback current value of the pump motor 211 being less than a reference current value, and may determine that the first pipe 221 is narrowed and/or blocked.

The processor 310 may control the flow path switching device 220 to block the flow of water to the first pipe 221, based on the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 being less than the reference voltage value (1205). In other words, the processor 310 may stop operating the flow path switching device 220 in a case where the feedback voltage value is less than the reference voltage value. In a case where the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 is greater than or equal to the reference voltage value, the processor 310 may not perform controlling the flow path switching device 220 for blocking the flow of water to the first pipe 221.

The processor 310 may change flow path setting information stored in the memory 320, based on the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 being less than the reference voltage value (1206). For example, the flow path setting information may include period information for dividing at least one of a washing operation or a rinsing operation into at least one first period using the first pipe 221 and at least one second period using the second pipe 222. In addition, the flow path setting information may include control information for turning on the flow path switching device 220 during the first period to use the first pipe 221, and turning off the flow path switching device 220 during the second period to use the second pipe 222. Based on the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 being identified as abnormal, the processor 310 may change the flow path setting information to allow the second pipe 222 to be used instead of the first pipe 221 during at least one first period included in the washing operation and/or the rinsing operation.

When the washing operation and/or the rinsing operation are performed again later, the processor 310 may stop operating the flow path switching device 220 to allow the second pipe 222 to be used during all periods of the washing operation and/or the rinsing operation according to the changed flow path setting information. Accordingly, the flow of water to the first pipe 221 that is narrowed and/or blocked may be prevented.

The processor 310 may perform the cleaning process on the first pipe 221 after the washing course ends (1207).

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the cleaning process described in FIG. 11 in more detail.

Referring to FIG. 13, once the cleaning process on the first pipe 221 starts, the processor 310 of the clothes treating apparatus 1 may operate the drying device 80 for a heating time to increase a temperature inside the tub 20 (1301). Increasing the temperature inside the tub 20 may facilitate removal of various foreign substances (e.g., grease, detergent residue, etc.) from the first pipe 221. The operation of the drying device 80 may be omitted from the cleaning process.

The processor 310 may control the water supply device 40 to supply hot water to the tub 20 (1302). To prevent malfunction of the drying device 80, the supply of hot water may be performed after the operation of the drying device 80 has stopped. Once the supply of hot water is completed, the processor 310 may operate the pump motor 211 of the circulation pump 210 and the flow path switching device 220 (1303). The processor 310 may set the rotation speed of the pump motor 211 to a maximum in the cleaning process. By supplying hot water to the first pipe 221, various foreign substances (e.g., grease, detergent residue, etc.) may be removed from the first pipe 221.

The processor 310 may also operate the drainage device 70 to discharge water remaining in the tub 20 to the outside before supplying hot water to the tub 20.

The processor 310 may obtain the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 while operating the pump motor 211 and the flow path switching device 220 (1304). The processor 310 may identify whether the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 is normal (1305).

In addition, the processor 310 may identify whether a cleaning time (e.g., 10 minutes) has elapsed from the time at which the pump motor 211 of the first pipe 221 and the flow path switching device 220 start operating (1306). The processor 310 may end the cleaning process, in response to the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 being identified as normal within the cleaning time (Yes in operation 1305).

In response to the feedback voltage value of the pump motor 211 being identified as abnormal during the cleaning time (e.g., 10 minutes) (No in operation 1305 and Yes in operation 1306), the processor 310 may provide notification information about blockage of the first pipe 221 (circulation flow path) through the user interface 15 (1307), and may end the cleaning process.

The notification information about blockage of the first pipe 221 may be provided via at least one of the output interface 15b of the user interface 15 or a user device. The notification information about blockage of the first pipe 221 may include not only information to notify a user of the narrowing and/or blockage of the first pipe 221 but also cleaning guidance information to guide cleaning of the first pipe 221.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a clothes treating apparatus may include: a tub; a diaphragm provided on an opening of the tub; a drum rotatable in the tub; a circulation pump configured to circulate water stored in the tub, and including a pump motor; a first pipe connected to an upper portion of the diaphragm; a second pipe connected to a lower portion of the tub; a flow path switching device configured to guide water, discharged from the tub through the circulation pump, to the first pipe or the second pipe; and a processor. The processor may be configured to control the pump motor and the flow path switching device to allow the water to flow to the first pipe or the second pipe according to execution of a washing course. The processor may be configured to identify whether a feedback voltage value obtained from the pump motor is normal. The processor may be configured to control the flow path switching device to allow the water to flow to the second pipe and block the water from flowing to the first pipe, based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal. The processor may be configured to perform a cleaning process on the first pipe after an end of the washing course.

The processor may be configured to identify the feedback voltage value as abnormal and stop operating the flow path switching device, in response to the feedback voltage value being less than a reference voltage value.

The processor may be configured to obtain the feedback voltage value, based on an elapse of a standby time from a time point at which the pump motor starts operating.

The clothes treating apparatus may further include memory. The processor may be configured to obtain flow path setting information for dividing at least one of a washing operation or a rinsing operation into at least one first period using the first pipe and at least one second period using the second pipe; and based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal, stop operating the flow path switching device and change the flow path setting information to allow the second pipe to be used instead of the first pipe during the at least one first period.

The clothes treating apparatus may further a drum motor configured to rotate the drum. The processor may be configured to stop operating the flow path switching device and control the drum motor to increase a rotation speed of the drum, based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal.

The clothes treating apparatus may further a water supply device connected to an external water source. The processor may be configured to, so as to perform the cleaning process on the first pipe, control the water supply device to supply hot water to the tub, monitor the feedback voltage value while operating the pump motor and the flow path switching device, and determine whether to end the cleaning process depending on whether the feedback voltage value is identified as normal.

The processor may be configured to end the cleaning process in response to the feedback voltage value being identified as normal within a cleaning time.

The processor may be configured to set a rotation speed of the pump motor to a maximum in the cleaning process.

The clothes treating apparatus may further a drying device configured to supply hot air. The processor may be configured to operate the drying device for a heating time to increase a temperature inside the tub before supplying the hot water to the tub.

The clothes treating apparatus may further a user interface. The processor may be configured to provide notification information about a blockage of the first pipe via the user interface and end the cleaning process, based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal during a cleaning time.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, in a method for controlling a clothes treating apparatus including a diaphragm provided on an opening of a tub, a circulation pump configured to circulate water stored in the tub, a first pipe connected to an upper portion of the diaphragm, a second pipe connected to a lower portion of the tub, a flow path switching device configured to guide the water to the first pipe or the second pipe, and a processor, the method, executed by the processor, may include: controlling a pump motor of the circulation pump and the flow path switching device to allow the water to flow to the first pipe or the second pipe according to execution of a washing course; identifying whether a feedback voltage value obtained from the pump motor is normal; blocking the water from flowing to the first pipe by controlling the flow path switching device, based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal; and performing a cleaning process on the first pipe after an end of the washing course.

The blocking of the water from flowing to the first pipe may include identifying the feedback voltage value as abnormal and stopping operating the flow path switching device, in response to the feedback voltage value being less than a reference voltage value.

The identifying of whether the feedback voltage value is normal may include obtaining the feedback voltage value, based on an elapse of a standby time from a time point at which the pump motor starts operating.

The method may further include: obtaining, from memory, flow path setting information for dividing at least one of a washing operation or a rinsing operation into at least one first period using the first pipe and at least one second period using the second pipe; and based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal, stopping operating the flow path switching device and changing the flow path setting information to allow the second pipe to be used instead of the first pipe during the at least one first period.

The method may further include stopping operating the flow path switching device and controlling a drum motor to increase a rotation speed of a drum, based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal.

The performing of the cleaning process on the first pipe may include: controlling a water supply device to supply hot water to the tub; monitoring the feedback voltage value while operating the pump motor and the flow path switching device; and determining whether to end the cleaning process depending on whether the feedback voltage value is identified as normal.

The determining of whether to end the cleaning process may include ending the cleaning process in response to the feedback voltage value being identified as normal within a cleaning time.

The performing of the cleaning process on the first pipe may include setting a rotation speed of the pump motor to a maximum in the cleaning process.

The performing of the cleaning process on the first pipe may further include operating a drying device for a heating time to increase a temperature inside the tub before supplying the hot water to the tub.

The performing of the cleaning process on the first pipe may further include providing notification information about a blockage of the first pipe via a user interface and ending the cleaning process, based on the feedback voltage value being identified as abnormal during a cleaning time.

According to the disclosure, the clothes treating apparatus and the method for controlling the same may optimize an operation of the clothes treating apparatus to maintain washing performance in the event of narrowing and/or blockage of a flow path for circulating water stored in a tub.

According to the disclosure, the clothes treating apparatus and the method for controlling the same may reduce and/or stop an operation of components associated with a narrowed and/or blocked flow path, thereby reducing power consumption and component failure.

According to the disclosure, the clothes treating apparatus and the method for controlling the same may automatically perform a cleaning process to clear narrowing and/or blockage of a flow path for circulating water stored in a tub, thereby minimizing a reduction in washing performance.

According to the disclosure, the clothes treating apparatus and the method for controlling the same may provide information about narrowing and/or blockage of a flow path for circulating water stored in a tub to a user, thereby improving user convenience and product reliability.

Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program codes, and when executed by a processor, the instructions may generate a program module to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments.

The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, when a storage medium is referred to as “non-transitory”, it may be understood that the storage medium is tangible and does not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but rather that data is semi-permanently or temporarily stored in the storage medium. For example, a “non-transitory storage medium” may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

The method according to various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed (e.g., download or upload) through an application store (e.g., Play Store^TM) online or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., downloadable app) may be stored at least semi-permanently or may be temporarily generated in a storage medium, such as a memory of a server of a manufacturer, a server of an application store, or a relay server.

Although embodiments of the disclosure have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, a person having ordinary skilled in the art will appreciate that other specific modifications may be easily made without departing from the technical spirit or essential features of the disclosure. Therefore, the foregoing embodiments should be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting in all aspects.