CLOTHES TREATING APPARATUS

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT/KR2025/017199 designating the United States, filed on Oct. 27, 2025, in the Korean Intellectual Property Receiving Office and claiming priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0202834, filed on Dec. 31, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Field

The disclosure relates to a clothes treating apparatus including a drying device.

Description of Related Art

A clothes treating apparatus is an appliance for treating and/or managing clothes. The clothes treating apparatus may include a washing machine and a dryer. The washing machine may include a washing machine with a drying function such as washer dryer combo.

The washing machine with the drying function performs washing through mutual friction by stirring together laundry, water, and detergent inside a tub by means of the driving force of a drive motor.

Cycles performed by the washing machine with the drying function may include a washing cycle in which of supplying water and detergent to the tub in which laundry is received and washing the laundry by rotating a drum, a rinsing cycle of supplying water to the tub and rinsing the laundry by rotating the drum, and a spin-drying cycle of discharging water from the tub and removing water from the laundry by rotating the drum.

The cycles performed by the washing machine with the drying function may include a drying cycle of drying the laundry by blowing heat generated by a drying device into a receiving space in which the laundry is received. The washing machine with the drying function may include the drying device to perform the drying cycle.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the disclosure provide a clothes treating apparatus with improved safety against fire.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide a clothes treating apparatus with improved rigidity.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide a clothes treating apparatus with an improved arrangement structure of components.

A clothes treating apparatus according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a housing, a tub provided inside the housing, and a drying device provided above the tub, the drying device comprising a hot air supply configured to supply heated air into the tub and a discharge device comprising a duct configured to discharge air discharged from the tub to an outside of the housing; a base plate configured to cover lower portions of the hot air supply and the discharge device, and comprising a non-combustible material, and a side base coupled to the base plate to cover at least one side portion of the hot air supply and the discharge device, the side base comprising a material different from the material of the base plate, wherein the base plate includes a base portion provided at a height lower than a lower end of the side base.

A clothes treating apparatus according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a drum, and a drying device provided above the drum, the drying device comprising a hot air supply configured to supply heated air into the drum and a discharge device comprising a duct configured to discharge air discharged from the drum to an outside. The drying device includes a side base configured to cover at least one side portion of the hot air supply and the discharge device, and a base plate on which the side base is mounted and including a material having greater rigidity than a rigidity of the side base, the base plate being configured to cover lower portions of the hot air supply and the discharge device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example clothes treating apparatus according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the clothes treating apparatus from a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 1 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the clothes treating apparatus according to various embodiments;

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating example configurations arranged inside the clothes treating apparatus according to various embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating example configurations arranged inside the clothes treating apparatus from a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 4 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating a state in which a drying device of the clothes treating apparatus is separated from a tub according to various embodiments;

FIG. 7 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating a state in which the drying device of the clothes treating apparatus is separated from the tub, from a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 6, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a hot air supply device and a discharge device of the drying device disassembled from a drying case in the clothes treating apparatus according to various embodiments

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an inside of the hot air supply device and the discharge device by disassembling some configurations of the drying device of the clothes treating apparatus according to various embodiments;

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the inside of the hot air supply device and the discharge device by disassembling some configurations of the drying device of the clothes treating apparatus from a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 9, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a relationship in which the hot air supply device and the discharge device of the drying device are coupled to the drying case, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the drying case of the drying device according to various embodiments;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of portion A shown in FIG. 12 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 14 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating a portion of the disassembled state of the drying case shown in FIG. 12 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 15 is a partial perspective view illustrating a portion of the coupled state of the drying case shown in FIG. 14 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line B-B′ shown in FIG. 15 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line C-C′ shown in FIG. 15 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a front view of the drying case of the drying device according to various embodiments; and

FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing a state in which an exhaust pipe is connected to the clothes treating apparatus according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various example embodiments of the disclosure and terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of the various example 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. For example, the dryer combined washing machine may include a heater. 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. 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. Water supplied through the water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device. 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 include various circuitry and 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 include various circuitry and 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 a washing 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 including communication circuitry 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 the drive 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 various 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 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.

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

In the following description, the terms “front”, rear”, “left”, and “right” are defined based on the drawings, and the shapes and positions of components are not limited by the terms.

For example, an X-axis direction may be defined as a front-to-back direction, a Y-axis direction may be defined as a left-to-right direction, and a Z-axis direction may be defined as an up-and-down direction.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example clothes treating apparatus according to various. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the clothes treating apparatus from a direction different from that shown in FIG. 1 according to various embodiments. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the clothes treating apparatus according to various embodiments. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view illustrating various configurations arranged inside the clothes treating apparatus according to various embodiments. FIG. 5 is a partial perspective view illustrating various configurations arranged inside the clothes treating apparatus from a direction different from that shown in FIG. 4 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a clothes treating apparatus 1 according to various embodiments may include a housing 10 that accommodates various components therein. The housing 10 may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry inlet 11 formed on one side. The laundry inlet 11 may be provided to face substantially forward.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a laundry door 17 for opening or closing the laundry inlet 11. The laundry door 17 may be rotatably mounted to the housing 10 by a hinge. At least a portion of the laundry door 17 may be provided transparently or translucently to allow an interior of the housing 10 to be visible. In an 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 discharge filter 150.

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

The tub 20 may be connected to the housing 10 by a damper 25. The damper 25 may absorb vibrations generated during rotation of a drum 30 to attenuate vibrations transmitted to the housing 10.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a diaphragm 22 for connecting the tub 20 with the housing 10. In an 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 to the tub opening 21 of the tub 20. The diaphragm 22 may reduce the transmission of vibrations from 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 configured to accommodate laundry. At least one lifter 33 may be provided inside the drum 30 to perform washing by lifting and dropping the laundry.

The drum 30 may be disposed inside the tub 20 such that a drum opening 31 provided in one side corresponds to the laundry inlet 11 and the tub opening 21. Laundry may be accommodated into or taken out of the drum 30 by passing sequentially through the laundry inlet 11, the diaphragm 22, the tub opening 21, and the drum opening 31. The drum opening 31 may be provided to face substantially forward.

The drum 30 may perform respective operations according to washing, rinsing, and/or spin-drying cycles while rotating inside 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 flow into or out of the drum 30.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a drive device 36 configured to rotate the drum 30. The drive device 36 may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting a driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum 30. The rotating shaft may pass through the tub 20 to be connected to the drum 30.

The drive device 36 may rotate the drum 30 in a forward or reverse direction to perform respective operations corresponding to washing, rinsing, and/or dewatering, or drying cycles.

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 include water supply valves 41 and 42 connectable to an external water source. For example, the water supply valves 41 and 42 may include a first water supply valve 41 and a second water supply valve 42. In an example, the water supply valves 41 and 42 may include a hot water valve 41 for supplying hot water and a cold water valve 42 for supplying cold water.

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 a first water supply pipe 43 and a second water supply pipe 44. In an example, the water supply pipes 43 and 44 may be provided as flexible hoses or pipes.

In an example, the water supply pipes 43 and 44 may include a hot water pipe 43 connected to the hot water valve 41 and a cold water pipe 44 connected to the cold water valve 42. At least one of the water supply pipes 43 and 44 may guide water from the water supply valves 41 and 42 to the tub 20. At least one of the water supply pipes 43 and 44 may extend from a water supply valve 41 and 42 to the tub 20. Water may be supplied to the lower detergent supply device 60 via the tub 20. Water may also be supplied to the lower detergent supply device 60 not via 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 from a controller. The water supply valves 41 and 42 may allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub 20. The water supply valves 41 and 42 may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include detergent supply devices 50 and 60 configured to supply 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. Detergent may be used as a term encompassing pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, and the like.

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 a vertical direction. The upper detergent supply device 50 may include a manual detergent supply device that requires a user to add detergent to be used for each washing, or an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically dispenses a given amount of detergent during washing. The upper detergent supply device 50 may be connected to the tub 20 through a detergent connection pipe 51. In an example, the upper detergent supply device 50 may be configured to supply solid laundry detergent and/or fabric softener to the tub 20. However, the type of detergent is not limited to the example described above.

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 vertical direction. The lower detergent supply device 60 may include a manual detergent supply device that requires a user to add detergent to be used for each washing, or an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically dispenses a given amount of detergent during washing. In an example, the lower detergent supply device 60 may be configured to supply liquid laundry detergent and/or fabric softener to the tub 20. However, the type of detergent is not limited to the example described above.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a drain device 70 configured to discharge water received in the tub 20 to an outside. The drain device 70 may include a drain pump 71 for discharging water in the tub 20 to the outside of the housing 10.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a circulation pump 76 for circulating water in the tub 20 back to the tub 20 via the lower detergent supply device 60.

The drain device 70 may be connected to the tub 20 through a tub connection pipe 72. The drain device 70 may discharge water in the tub 20 to the outside of the housing 10 through a drain pipe 73.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a washing water heater 24. The washing water heater 24 may be provided below the tub 20 and heat washing water during washing. In addition, during a drying cycle, the water supply device 40 may supply a certain amount of water to a lower side of the tub 20 through a connection flow path P, and the washing water heater 24 may heat the water supplied into the tub 20 through the water supply device 40, the connection flow path P, and a tub exhaust port 27 to generate steam. The steam generated by the water supply device 40 and the washing water heater 24 may come into contact with clothes during a drying cycle, thereby reducing formation of wrinkles on the clothes.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be a washing machine with washing and drying functions, unlike conventional dryers, may include the washing water heater 24 for heating washing water, and may generate steam by utilizing the washing water heater 24 and the water supply device 40 for washing the connection flow path P, thereby maximally preventing/reducing wrinkles from forming on clothes during the drying cycle.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a control panel 15 disposed on one side of the housing 10. The control panel 15 may provide a user interface 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.

The at least one input interface may include various circuitry and 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 wash/rinse/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.

The at least one output interface may include various circuitry and visually or audibly transfer information related to an operation of the clothes treating apparatus 1 to a user.

For example, the at least one output interface may transfer information related to a washing course and an operation time of the clothes treating apparatus 1, and washing/rinsing/spin-drying settings, to a user. Information related to the operation of the clothes treating apparatus may be output through a screen, an indicator, voice, or 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, or the like.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a control box 15c for the control panel 15. The control box 15c for the control panel 15 may be electrically connected to the control panel 15. The control box 15c for the control panel 15 may supply power to the control panel 15. The control box 15c for the control panel 15 may process information input through the control panel 15. The control box 15c for the control panel 15 may control the control panel 15 to output information.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a drying device 100 for drying laundry accommodated inside the drum 30. The drying device 100 may be configured to heat air and supply the air into the tub 20. The drying device 100 may discharge the air discharged from the tub 20 to the outside of the clothes treating apparatus 1. The clothes treating apparatus 1 may be configured to draw in outside air, heat the outside air, and supply the outside air to the tub 20 to dry clothes inside the drum 30, and then discharge the air from the tub 20 to the outside of the clothes treating apparatus 1 after drying the clothes inside the drum 30. The drying device 100 according to various embodiments may be disposed above the tub 20.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a terminal module 90. The terminal module 90 may include a terminal block. For example, the clothes treating apparatus 1 including a drying function may use a relatively high voltage, and power may be smoothly supplied through the terminal module 90.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a terminal cover 91 for covering the terminal module 90. The terminal cover 91 may be detachably coupled to the housing 10. In an example, the terminal module 90 may be provided in the drying device 100, and the terminal cover 91 may be detachably mounted on the drying device 100.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a connector coupling portion 149 to which a connector to electrically connect the terminal module 90 with the control panel 15 is coupled. In an example, a connector provided on a wire extending from the terminal module 90 may be connected to a connector provided on a wire extending from the control panel 15 at the connector coupling portion 149. The connector coupling portion 149 may include a space where the connector provided on the wire extending from the terminal module 90 and the wire extending from the control panel 15 are coupled to each other. For example, the connector coupling portion 149 may be provided in the drying device 100. For example, the connector coupling portion 149 may be provided on a discharge cover 142 of a discharge device 140 (e.g., a discharger, dispenser, ejector, etc.) of the drying device 100.

FIG. 6 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating a state in which a drying device of the clothes treating apparatus is separated from a tub according to various embodiments. FIG. 7 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating a state in which the drying device of the clothes treating apparatus is separated from the tub, from a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 6, according to various embodiments. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a hot air supply device and a discharge device of the drying device disassembled from a drying case in the clothes treating apparatus according to various embodiments. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an inside of the hot air supply device and the discharge device by disassembling some configurations of the drying device of the clothes treating apparatus according to various embodiments. FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the inside of the hot air supply device and the discharge device by disassembling some configurations of the drying device of the clothes treating apparatus from a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 9, according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 4 to 10, the drying device 100 may include a drying case 101. Various configurations of the drying device 100 may be installed in the drying case 101. For example, a hot air supply device (e.g., a hot air supplier) 110 and/or the discharge device 140 of the drying device 100 may be installed in the drying case 101. The drying device 100 may be provided as a single module by installing the hot air supply device 110 and the discharge device 140 in the drying case 101.

Referring to FIG. 8, the drying case 101 may include a case opening 101a for allowing air entering the housing 10 to flow into the drying device 100. For example, the case opening 101a may include at least one opening. In an example, the case opening 101a may be provided in a side portion of the drying case 101, which is adjacent to a supply fan 130.

Referring to FIG. 8, the drying case 101 may include a tub connection opening 101b through which a portion of the discharge device 140 extends and is connected to the tub 20. The tub connection opening 101b may be configured to allow a discharge connection part 143 and/or a duct guide 144 of the discharge device 140 to pass therethrough. When the discharge connection part 143 is connected to the duct guide 144, the discharge connection part 143 and/or the duct guide 144 may be positioned at the tub connection opening 101b.

In an example, the case opening 101a may be provided at a left rear end portion of the drying case 101, and the tub connection opening 101b may be provided at a right rear end portion of the drying case 101.

Referring to FIG. 8, the drying case 101 may include a guide mounting portion 102 so that air inside the drying device 100 is discharged to the outside of the drying device 100. As a portion of the discharge device 140 is mounted to the guide mounting portion 102, the air inside the drying device 100 may be discharged to the outside of the drying device 100. For example, the guide mounting portion 102 may be provided on a rear side of the drying case 101.

The drying device 100 may include a reinforcing frame 109 for increasing the rigidity of the drying case 101. For example, the reinforcing frame 109 may be detachably mounted to a front end portion of the drying case 101. In an example, the reinforcing frame 109 may be mounted on the drying case 101 in a state where the hot air supply device 110 and the discharge device 140 are installed in the drying case 101. In an example, the hot air supply device 110 and the discharge device 140 may be separated from the drying case 101 after the reinforcing frame 109 is detached from the drying case 101.

The drying device 100 may include the hot air supply device 110 for supplying hot air, e.g., heated air, to the tub 20. The hot air supply device 110 may be mounted on the drying case 101. A supply flow path 116 for the air to be supplied to the tub 20 to flow may be formed inside the hot air supply device 110.

In an example, the hot air supply device 110 may be connected to the diaphragm 22. An end of the hot air supply device 110 from which air is discharged may be connected to the diaphragm 22. The diaphragm 22 may include a diaphragm connection portion 22a connected to the end of the hot air supply device 110. The diaphragm connection portion 22a may be provide with an air inlet 26. Air discharged from the hot air supply device 110 may be supplied to the inside of the drum 30 through the air inlet 26.

The hot air supply device 110 may be configured to guide air entering the housing 10 to the tub 20. The hot air supply device 110 may be configured to heat the air entering the housing 10. The hot air supply device 110 may be configured to turn outside air entering the housing 10 into hot and dry air.

For example, referring to FIG. 2, an outside air hole 10a for outside air to enter may be formed on the rear surface of the housing 10, and in response to an operations of the hot air supply device 110, outside air may enter the housing 10 through the outside air hole 10a. Referring to FIG. 8, air entering the housing 10 may enter the drying device 100 through the at least one case opening 101a formed in the drying case 101. The air that has entered the drying device 100 may enter the hot air supply device 110.

The hot air supply device 110 may include a supply base 111. The supply base 111 may be mounted on the drying case 101. The supply base 111 may form a portion of the supply flow path 116. The configurations of the hot air supply device 110 may be accommodated on the supply base 111. The supply base 111 may form at least a portion of the supply flow path 116. For example, the supply base 111 may have a shape that is open at the upper side.

The hot air supply device 110 may include a supply cover 112. The supply cover 112 may be coupled to the supply base 111. The supply cover 112 may cover the open side of the supply base 111. The supply cover 112, together with the supply base 111, may form at least a portion of the supply flow path 116. In an example, as the supply cover 112 is coupled to the supply base 111, at least a portion of the supply flow path 116 may be formed.

The hot air supply device 110 may include a drying heater 120 for heating the air passing through the hot air supply device 110. The drying heater 120 may heat the air flowing through the supply flow path 116. For example, the drying heater 120 may include a dual heater.

The drying device 100 may include a heater control box 129 for controlling the drying heater 120. The heater control box 129 may be electrically connected to the drying heater 120. For example, the heater control box 129 may be mounted on the drying case 101.

The hot air supply device 110 may include a supply fan 130 for creating an airflow inside the hot air supply device 110. The supply fan 130 may be configured to draw in air from outside the housing 10 and blow the outside air to the tub 20. The supply fan 130 may be configured to supply air to an object inside the drum 30. In an example, the supply fan 130 may include a sirocco fan. For example, the supply fan 130 may be configured to draw in air in an extension direction of a rotating shaft of the supply fan 13 and discharge the drawn-in air outwardly from a circumference of the supply fan 13.

The hot air supply device 110 may include a fan drive device 135 for providing power to the supply fan 130. In an example, the hot air supply device 110 may include a fan cover 113 couplable to the supply base 111 and/or the supply cover 112. The fan drive device 135 may be mounted on the fan cover 113.

Referring to FIG. 10, the supply base 111 may include a supply inlet 117 through which air enters the hot air supply device 110. The supply inlet 117 may be formed by penetrating the supply base 111 in the extension direction of the rotating shaft of the supply fan 130. In response to an operation of the supply fan 130, air from outside the hot air supply device 110 may enter the inside of the hot air supply device 110 through the supply inlet 117.

The hot air supply device 110 may include a supply connection part 114 connected to the tub 20. The supply connection part 114 may be connected to a front end of the tub 20. For example, the supply base 111 may extend in a front-to-back direction, and the supply connection part 114 may extend in an up-and-down direction.

The supply connection part 114 may include a supply guide portion 114a for guiding air flowing from the supply base 111 to the supply connection part 114. The supply guide portion 114a may have a rib shape. The supply guide portion 114a may be configured to agitate dry air supplied to the tub 20 to reduce temperature deviation of the dry air supplied to the tub 20.

In an example, the supply connection part 114 may be positioned at another end portion of the supply base 111, which is opposite to one end portion of the supply fan 130 at the supply fan 130 is positioned. For example, the supply connection part 114 may be connected to the opposite end portion of one end portion of the supply base 111 on which the supply inlet 117 is formed. Because the supply connection part 114 and the supply inlet 117 are disposed spaced apart from each other at both end portions of the supply base 111, a time for the air entering through the supply inlet 117 to be heated by the drying heater 120 before being supplied to the tub 20 through the supply connection part 114 may be secured.

The supply connection part 114 of the hot air supply device 110 may be connected to the air inlet 26. The air inlet 26 of the tub 20 may be disposed in the diaphragm 22 provided at the front end of the tub 20. The supply connection part 114 may be connected to the diaphragm connection portion 22a provided in the diaphragm 22. In an example, the supply connection part 114 and the diaphragm connection portion 22a may be fixed by mounting a clamp at a region where the supply connection part 114 and the diaphragm connection portion 22a are coupled.

The drying device 100 may include a thermostat 170 configured to stop an operation of the drying device 100 when a temperature of the dry air supplied through the hot air supply device 110 exceeds a given temperature. In an example, the thermostat 170 may be mounted on the hot air supply device 110. For example, the thermostat 170 may include a sensor for detecting a temperature of the supply flow path 116.

Referring to FIGS. 3 to 7, the air heated in the drying device 100 may be supplied to the inside of the drum 30 through via the tub 20. To ensure a time for which the heated air supplied to the inside of the drum 30 to removes water of laundry, the tub exhaust port 27 may be provided at a position opposite to the air inlet 26 through which the heated air from the drying device 100 is supplied to the tub 20. To cause the heated air to come in more contact with laundry by increasing a distance by which the heated air flows inside the drum 30 and/or time for which the heated air flows inside the drum 30, the tub exhaust port 27 may be provided at a position opposite to the air inlet 26 through which the heated air from the drying device 100 is supplied to the tub 20. By increasing the time for which the heated air comes in contact with laundry, drying efficiency may be improved.

The air inlet 26 and the tub exhaust port 27 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be arranged to maximize/increase use of the heated air provided from the drying device 100. In an example, the air inlet 26 may be positioned at the front end portion of the tub 20, and the tub exhaust port 27 may be positioned at the rear end portion of the tub 20.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 according to various embodiments may include the connection flow path P through which air discharged from the inside of the tub 20 flows to the drying device 100. The connection flow path P may allow the air discharged from the tub exhaust port 27 to flow to a discharge flow path 146 of the drying device 100. The connection flow path P may be configured to discharge humid air that has passed through the tub 20. In an example, the connection flow path P may be provided on the rear side of the tub 20.

The air inside the tub 20 may be discharged to a tub duct 28 through the tub exhaust port 27 formed in the rear surface of the tub 20. The air discharged to the tub duct 28 may flow along the connection flow path P and be supplied to the drying device 100.

The clothes treating apparatus 1 according to various embodiments may include the tub duct 28 for forming at least a portion of the connection flow path P. In an example, the tub duct 28 may be integrally formed with the tub 20. In an example, the tub 20 may include the tub duct 28. The tub duct 28 may be configured to 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 connection flow path P. The duct cover 29 may be configured to cover an open rear surface of the tub duct 28. In an example, the tub 20 may include the duct cover 29. The duct cover 29 may form at least a portion of the connection flow path P through which the air discharged through the tub exhaust port 27 flows to the drying device 100.

In the clothes treating apparatus 1 according to various embodiments, the connection 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 connection flow path P through which the air discharged from the inside of the tub 20 flows. A reinforcing rib 23 for enhancing the rigidity of the tub 20 may be provided on the rear surface of the tub 20, and the recess portion 28a may be provided as a portion recessed from an end of the reinforcing rib 23 protruding from the rear surface of the tub 20. The recess portion 28a may be provided as a portion of the rear surface of the tub 20, on which the reinforcing rib 23 is not formed. The tub exhaust port 27 through which the air is discharged from the inside of the tub 20 may be formed in the recess portion 28a. The tub duct 28 may include a partition rib 28d provided along a circumference of the recess portion 28a. The partition rib 28d may define a region on which the recess portion 28a is formed and a region on which the reinforcing rib 23 is formed, on the rear surface of the tub 20.

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

The duct connecting portion 28b may allow the recess portion 28a to communicate with the drying device 100. The duct connecting portion 28b may be connected to the discharge connection part 143 of the drying device 100. The duct connecting portion 28b, together with the recess portion 28a and the duct cover 29, may form a single passage forming the connection flow path P.

The duct connecting portion 28b may be covered by the duct cover 29. One side of the duct connecting portion 28b may be open. The duct cover 29 may cover the open side of the duct connecting portion 28b.

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

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

The tub duct 28 may include a step portion 28c for expanding a cross-sectional area of the connection flow path P. The connection flow path P may be provided such that a width of a portion formed by the duct connecting portion 28b is greater than a width of a portion formed by the recess portion 28a by the step portion 28c.

The drying device 100 may include the discharge device 140 for discharging the air discharged from the tub 20 to the outside of the clothes treating apparatus 1. The discharge device 140 may be mounted on the drying case 101. The discharge device 140 may be configured to form the discharge flow path 146 for discharging the air discharged from the tub 20 to the outside of the housing 10.

The discharge device 140 may include a discharge base 141. The discharge base 141 may be mounted on the drying case 101. The discharge base 141 may form at least a portion of the discharge flow path 146. The discharge base 141 may be provided such that the discharge flow path 146 has a substantially U-shape.

The discharge device 140 may include the discharge cover 142. The discharge cover 142 may be coupled to the discharge base 141. The discharge cover 142 may form at least a portion of the discharge flow path 146. The discharge cover 142 may cover an open portion of the discharge base 141. The discharge cover 142, together with the discharge base 141, may form at least a portion of the discharge flow path 146. In an example, as the discharge cover 142 is coupled to the discharge base 141, at least a portion of the discharge flow path 146 may be formed.

The discharge device 140 may include the discharge connection part 143 connected to the tub 20. The discharge connection part 143 may guide the air that has been discharged from the tub 20 and passed through the connection flow path P. A flow path through which air flows may be formed inside the discharge connection part 143. The discharge connection part 143 may be connected to the duct connecting portion 28b of the tub 20.

In an example, the discharge connection part 143 may include a flexible material. For example, the discharge connection part 143 may have a structure capable of changing in length. For example, the discharge connection part 143 may include an elastic material. For example, the discharge connection part 143 may include a stretchable material. The discharge connection part 143 may be configured to reduce vibration transmission from the tub 20 to the drying device 100. The discharge connection part 143 may seal a space between the duct connecting portion 28b of the tub 20 and the duct guide 144 of the discharge device 140.

The discharge device 140 may include the duct guide 144 connected to the discharge connection part 143. The duct guide 144 may be configured to guide the air that has passed through the discharge connection part 143 to the discharge flow path 146. The duct guide 144 may connect the discharge connection part 143 to the discharge base 141 and/or the discharge cover 142. The duct guide 144 may be configured to change a flow direction of the air discharged from the tub 20 and flowing upward along the connection flow path P. The duct guide 144 may include a material with higher strength than the discharge connection part 143.

The discharge device 140 may include a discharge guide 145 for guiding the air that has passed through the discharge base 141 to the outside of the housing 10. The discharge guide 145 may be connected to the discharge base 141. The discharge guide 145 may be mounted to the guide mounting portion 102 formed in the drying case 101. The guide mounting portion 102 may be positioned on the rear end portion of the drying case 101.

The discharge guide 145 may be positioned at a substantially center portion of the rear end portion of the drying device 100. In an example, the water supply valves 41 and 42 may be positioned on one side of the discharge guide 145, and the terminal module 90 may be positioned on the opposite side of the one side at which the water supply valves 41 and 42 are positioned. The discharge guide 145 may be positioned between the water supply valves 41 and 42 and the terminal module 90 in the rear end portion of the drying device 100.

The drying device 100 may include the discharge filter 150 detachably couplable to the discharge device 140. The discharge filter 150 may filter out foreign matter from the air passing through the discharge device 140. The discharge filter 150 may filter out foreign matter from the air passing through the discharge flow path 146. The discharge filter 150 may be detachably mounted to the discharge base 141 and/or the discharge cover 142. The discharge filter 150 may be configured to be accessible by opening the upper door 19 shown in FIG. 1.

A filter mounting portion 141a for mounting the discharge filter 150 may be provided on the discharge base 141. The filter mounting portion 141a may extend from a front end portion of the discharge base 141 toward the rear. The filter mounting portion 141a may be configured to correspond to the size and/or shape of the discharge filter 150. The filter mounting portion 141a may include a rail on which the discharge filter 150 slides. The discharge filter 150 may be mounted by sliding on the filter mounting portion 141a.

In the clothes treating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, since the discharge filter 150 for filtering out foreign matter from the humid air discharged from the tub 20 is provided in the drying device 100 positioned above the tub 20, a user or operator may easily access the discharge filter 150 to maintain and/or repair the discharge filter 150.

The drying device 100 may include a humidity sensor 180 for detecting the humidity of air discharged through the discharge device 140. The humidity sensor 180 may be configured to detect the humidity of the air passing through the discharge flow path 146. In an example, the humidity sensor 180 may be mounted to the discharge device 140.

The drying device 100 may include an electromagnetic interference (EMI) filter 108. The EMI filter 108 may be configured to reduce or block electromagnetic interference of the clothes treating apparatus 1. The EMI filter 108 may be mounted to the drying case 101. For example, the EMI filter 108 may be positioned behind the hot air supply device 110. For example, the EMI filter 108 may be positioned at a corner portion of the drying case 101.

In the clothes treating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, since the drying heater 120 is provided in the hot air supply device 110 and the discharge filter 150 is provided in the discharge device 140, the discharge filter 150 may be prevented/reduced from being damaged by the drying heater 120.

Referring to FIG. 8, in the clothes treating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the hot air supply device 110 and the discharge device 140 may be provided to be respectively separated from the drying case 101. The hot air supply device 110 and the discharge device 140 may each be provided as separate configurations.

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a relationship in which the hot air supply device and the discharge device of the drying device are coupled to the drying case, according to various embodiments. FIG. 12 is an exploded view of the drying case of the drying device according to various embodiments. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an enlarged view of portion A shown in FIG. 12 according to various embodiments. FIG. 14 is a partial perspective view of a portion of the disassembled state of the drying case shown in FIG. 12 according to various embodiments. FIG. 15 is a partial perspective view of a portion of the coupled state of the drying case shown in FIG. 14 according to various embodiments. FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line B-B′ shown in FIG. 15 according to various embodiments. FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line C-C′ shown in FIG. 15 according to various embodiments. FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a front view of the drying case of the drying device according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 8 to 12, the drying case 101 of the drying device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to accommodate configurations of the drying device 100. The drying case 101 may be configured for the configurations of the drying device 100 to be mounted thereon. The drying case 101 may be configured to support the configurations of the drying device 100.

The drying case 101 may include a base plate 1011. The base plate 1011 may form a lower portion of the drying device 100. The base plate 1011 may cover a portion of a lower side of the drying device 100. The base plate 1011 may form a lower portion and a portion of side portions of the drying device 100. The base plate 1011 may be configured to support at least a portion of the configurations of the drying device 100 from below.

In an example, the base plate 1011 may include a material with high rigidity. For example, the base plate 1011 may include a material with greater rigidity than side bases 1012 and 1013. For example, the base plate 1011 may include steel.

The base plate 1011 may include a base forming portion 1011a to enhance strength. In an example, the base forming portion 1011a may be formed by protruding upwardly or downwardly from a portion of the base plate 1011. For example, the base forming portion 1011a may be formed by bending a portion of the base plate 1011. The base forming portion 1011a may be formed to protrude from a portion of the base plate 1011 or to be recessed from a portion of the base plate 1011. The base forming portion 1011a may be formed to have a step with a portion of the base plate 1011. The base forming portion 1011a may be formed in at least a partial area of the base plate 1011. The drying device 100 of the clothes treating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may have improved strength as the base forming portion 1011a is provided on the base plate 1011.

The base plate 1011 may include a support forming portion 1011c formed on a portion of the base plate 1011 on which a configuration of the drying device 100 is mounted. In an example, the base plate 1011 may include the support forming portion 1011c formed on a portion on which the discharge device 140 is mounted. The support forming portion 1011c may be configured to support the discharge device 140 when the discharge device 140 is mounted on the base plate 1011. The configuration supported by the support forming portion 1011c is not limited to the discharge device 140. For example, the base plate 1011 may also include a support forming portion for supporting the hot air supply device 110.

In an example, in the case of lint accumulating on the base plate 1011 of the drying case 101, a fire may occur inside the drying device 100. The base plate 1011 may be configured to reduce the spread of a fire to the outside of the drying device 100 in the event that a fire occurs in the interior of the drying device 100. The base plate 1011 may be configured to reduce the spread of a fire to a portion where the tub 20 is located inside the housing 10 in the event that a fire occurs inside the drying device 100.

In an example, the base plate 1011 may include a non-combustible material. In an example, the base plate 1011 may include a heat-resistant material. The base plate 1011 may include a material with higher heat resistance than the side bases 1012 and 1013. For example, the base plate 1011 may include steel.

Referring to FIG. 13, the base plate 1011 may include a guard portion 1011b for preventing/reducing fire from spreading to the tub 20 located below the drying device 100 in the event of a fire inside the drying device 100. The guard portion 1011b may be provided on at least one edge of the base plate 1011. The guard portion 1011b may extend along at least one edge of the base plate 1011. The guard portion 1011b may protrude upwardly from at least one edge of the base plate 1011. The guard portion 1011b may be formed by bending at least one edge portion of the base plate 1011. The guard portion 1011b may reduce the spread of a fire occurring on the base plate 1011 to the tub 20 located below the drying device 100. The guard portion 1011b may reduce lint from the base plate 1011 from escaping to the outside of the drying case 101.

The guard portion 1011b may include a bent portion 1011ba provided at an upper end of the guard portion 1011b. The bent portion 1011ba may be formed by bending a portion of the upper end of the guard portion 1011b. The guard portion 1011b may have a shape that extends upwardly from an edge of the base plate 1011 and then extends downwardly by the bent portion 1011ba. The bent portion 1011ba may be configured to improve operator safety by forming the edge of the base plate 1011 into a curved surface.

The drying case 101 may include the side bases 1012 and 1013. The side bases 1012 and 1013 may be coupled to both sides of the base plate 1011. The side bases 1012 and 1013 may be configured to cover at least one side portion of the hot air supply device 110 and the discharge device 140.

The side bases 1012 and 1013 may include a material different from that of the base plate 1011. For example, the side bases 1012 and 1013 may include a material with less rigidity than the base plate 1011. For example, the side bases 1012 and 1013 may be provided as injection-molded products.

The drying device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the base plate 1011 including a non-combustible material and the side bases 1012 and 1013 including a material different from that of the base plate 1011, which may reduce noise generated inside the drying device 100.

The housing 10 of the clothes treating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include side housings 12 and 13 for covering the side bases 1012 and 1013, respectively. For example, the side housings 12 and 13 may include a left side housing 12 for covering the left base 1012 and a right side housing 13 for covering the right base 1013. The side housings 12 and 13 may include a material with greater rigidity than the side bases 1012 and 1013.

In an example, the side bases 1012 and 1013 may include the left base 1012 and the right base 1013. For example, the left base 1012 may have the same configuration as the right base 1013. For example, a configuration provided on the left base 1012 may also be provided on the right base 1013 as well.

In an example, the base plate 1011 may include a base mounting portion 1011d for mounting the side bases 1012 and 1013. The base mounting portions 1011d may be provided on the left and right sides of the base plate 1011, corresponding to the left base 1012 and the right base 1013 of the side bases 1012 and 1013, respectively.

Referring to FIGS. 14 to 17, the coupling of the left base 1012 and the base plate 1011 will be described. For example, the coupling of the left base 1012 and the base plate 1011 may be configured to be the same as the coupling of the right base 1013 and the base plate 1011.

The base plate 1011 may include the base mounting portion 1011d for coupling the left base 1012. In an example, the left base 1012 may be coupled to the base plate 1011 in a horizontal direction. The base mounting portion 1011d may be provided at a left end of the base plate 1011. The base mounting portion 1011d may extend in a front-to-back direction.

The base mounting portion 1011d may include a base coupling portion 1011da for detachably coupling with the left base 1012. In an example, the base coupling portion 1011da may have a hole shape. The left base 1012 may include a side coupling portion 1012a for coupling with the base coupling portion 1011da. In an example, the side coupling portion 1012a may have a hook shape.

For example, while the left base 1012 is being mounted to the base plate 1011, the side coupling portion 1012a may be configured to be pressed and deformed by the base mounting portion 1011d, and may be configured to be restored upon being coupled to the base coupling portion 1011da.

In the drying case 101 according to an embodiment, the side coupling portion 1012a of the left base 1012 may be primarily coupled by being coupled to the base coupling portion 1011da provided on the base mounting portion 1011d of the base plate 1011. For example, as the side coupling portion 1012a is coupled to the base coupling portion 1011da, the left base 1012 may be temporarily fixed to the base plate 1011.

The left base 1012 may include a base receiving portion 1012d in which the base mounting portion 1011d is received when the left base 1012 is mounted to the base plate 1011. The base receiving portion 1012d may be provided to correspond to the size and/or shape of the base mounting portion 1011d.

In an example, the base mounting portion 1011d may include a head 1011dd provided such that an edge portion is bent to form a curved surface. As the base mounting portion 1011d includes the curved head 1011dd, the coupling of the left base 1012 and the base mounting portion 1011d may be facilitated, and damage to the left base 1012 may be reduced.

The base mounting portion 1011d may include a base fixing portion 1011dc for fixing the left base 1012. For example, the base fixing portion 1011dc may have a hole shape to which a fastening member may be coupled. The left base 1012 may include a side fixing portion 1012c provided to correspond to the base fixing portion 1011dc. For example, the side fixing portion 1012c may have a hole shape to which a fastening member may be coupled.

In an example, in a state where the side coupling portion 1012a of the left base 1012 is coupled to the base coupling portion 1011da of the base mounting portion 1011d, the base fixing portion 1011dc and the side fixing portion 1012c may be aligned. In a state where the base fixing portion 1011dc and the side fixing portion 1012c are aligned, the left base 1012 may be fixed to the base plate 1011 as a fastening member is fastened to the base fixing portion 1011dc and the side fixing portion 1012c.

The base plate 1011 may include a side reinforcing portion 1011de for adding strength to the base mounting portion 1011d. The side reinforcing portion 1011de may be formed by protruding or recessing a portion of the base mounting portion 1011d more than another portion. For example, the side reinforcing portion 1011de may be provided at a portion where the base mounting portion 1011d and a base extension portion 1011e are connected. For example, the side reinforcing portion 1011de may be provided in a plurality along a line where the base mounting portion 1011d and the base extension portion 1011e are connected.

Referring to FIGS. 14 to 18, the base plate 1011 may include the base extension portion 1011e extending obliquely downward from the base mounting portion 1011d. The base extension portion 1011e may be configured to cover at least one side portion of the hot air supply device 110 and the discharge device 140. The base extension portion 1011e may extend along the base mounting portion 1011d. For example, the base extension portion 1011e may include at least one base extension reinforcing portion 1011ea for strength reinforcement.

The base plate 1011 may include a base portion 1011f extending from the base extension portion 1011e and positioned below the hot air supply device 110 and the discharge device 140. The base portion 1011f may be configured to cover at least a portion of the lower portion of the hot air supply device 110 and the discharge device 140. For example, the base forming portion 1011a and the support forming portion 1011c may be provided in the base portion 1011f.

The base portion 1011f may include a bending reinforcing portion 1011fa provided at a portion connected to the base extension portion 1011e. For example, when the base extension portion 1011e extends by being bent from an end of the base portion 1011f, the strength of the portion being bent may be weakened, and the bending reinforcing portion 1011fa may be provided at the portion where the base extension portion 1011e is bent from the end of the base portion 1011f to reinforce the strength.

The base portion 1011f may be positioned below the base mounting portion 1011d. Since the base portion 1011f is positioned below the base mounting portion 1011d, the drying case 101 may provide a space S1 in which components may be disposed inside the drying device 100.

The base mounting portion 1011d may be positioned above the base portion 1011f. Since the base mounting portion 1011d is positioned above the base portion 1011f, in the event of a fire occurring inside the drying device 100, the spread of the fire from the base portion 1011f to the base mounting portion 1011d may be reduced.

The base extension portion 1011e may extend obliquely from the base mounting portion 1011d to the base portion 1011f in a direction away from a side portion of the housing 10. Since the base extension portion 1011e extends obliquely away from the side portion of the housing 10, a space S2 may be formed that may reduce interference with components disposed below the drying device 100.

The drying case 101 may include a rear base 1014. The rear base 1014 may be configured to cover a rear side of the hot air supply device 110 and the discharge device 140. The rear base 1014 may be mounted to a rear end portion of the base plate 1011. The rear base 1014 may form a rear surface of the drying device 100. In an example, the rear base 1014 may include the same material as the base plate 1011. For example, the rear base 1014 may include steel.

The base plate 1011, the side bases 1012 and 1013, and the rear base 1014 of the drying case 101 of the drying device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided to mount and support the configurations of the drying device 100.

In an example, the discharge device 140 may be mounted to the base plate 1011 and the right base 1013. The discharge device 140 may be supported on the base plate 1011 and the right base 1013. In an example, the discharge guide 145 of the discharge device 140 may be mounted to the guide mounting portion 102 formed on the rear base 1014.

In an example, the hot air supply device 140 may be mounted to the left base 1012 and the discharge device 140. The hot air supply device 140 may be supported by the left base 1012 and the discharge device 140.

In an example, the heater control box 129 may be mounted on the left base 1012 close to the hot air supply device 110. In an example, the EMI filter 108 may be mounted on a corner portion of the left base 1012. In an example, the water supply valves 41 and 42 may be mounted on the rear base 1014. In an example, the terminal module 90 may be mounted on the rear base 1014.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which an exhaust pipe is connected to the clothes treating apparatus according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 19, the clothes treating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an exhaust pipe 199 for guiding air discharged through the discharge guide 145 of the drying device 100 to the outside. In a case where the clothes treating apparatus 1 is installed indoors and the exhaust pipe 199 is not connected to the discharge guide 145, the humid air discharged through the discharge guide 145 may be discharged indoors. In a case where the clothes treating apparatus 1 is installed indoors and the exhaust pipe 199 is connected to the discharge guide 145, the humid air discharged through the discharge guide 145 may be guided outdoors by the exhaust pipe 199 and discharged outdoors.

A clothes treating apparatus according to an example embodiment includes a housing, a tub provided inside the housing, and a drying device provided above the tub, the drying device comprising a hot air supply configured to supply heated air into the tub and a discharge device, comprising a duct, configured to discharge air discharged from the tub to an outside of the housing. The drying device includes a base plate configured to cover lower portions of the hot air supply and the discharge device, and comprising a non-combustible material, and a side base coupled to the base plate to cover at least one side portion of the hot air supply and the discharge device, the side base comprising a material different from the material of the base plate. The base plate includes a base portion provided at a height lower than a lower end of the side base.

The base plate may include a base forming portion protruding or recessing a portion thereof more than another portion.

The base plate may include a support forming portion protruding or recessing from a portion of the base plate more than another portion, and on which the discharge device is configured to be mounted.

The base plate may include a guard portion protruding upwardly from at least one edge portion.

The guard portion may include a bent portion provided at an upper end thereof.

The base plate may include steel. The side base may be injection-molded.

The base plate may include a material having a greater rigidity than a rigidity of the side base.

The base plate may include a base mounting portion for mounting the side base, and a base extension portion extending obliquely downward from the base mounting portion to the base portion. The base portion may be positioned below the hot air supply and the discharge device.

The base mounting portion may include a base coupling portion configured to detachably couple the side base.

The base mounting portion may include a base fixing portion configured to fix the side base by a fastening member comprising a fastener.

The base plate may include a side reinforcing portion protruding or recessing a portion of the base mounting portion more than another portion.

The base extension portion may extend obliquely from the base mounting portion to the base portion in a direction away from a side portion of the housing.

The drying device may include a rear cover coupled to the base plate and configured to cover at least a portion of a rear side of the hot air supply and the discharge device.

The rear cover may include the same material as the base plate.

The drying device may include a reinforcing frame mounted on a front end of the side base.

A clothes treating apparatus according to an example embodiment includes a drum, and a drying device provided above the drum, the drying device comprising a hot air supply device configured to supply heated air into the drum and a discharge device configured to discharge air discharged from the drum to an outside. The drying device includes a side base configured to cover at least one side portion of the hot air supply device and the discharge device, and a base plate on which the side base is mounted and including a material with greater rigidity than the side base, the base plate being configured to cover lower portions of the hot air supply device and the discharge device.

The base plate may include a non-combustible material.

The base plate may include a guard portion protruding upwardly from at least one edge portion.

The base plate may include a base forming portion formed by protruding or recessing a portion thereof more than another portion.

The base plate may include steel. The side base may be provided as an injection-molded product.

According to the spirit of the present disclosure, the clothes treating apparatus may be provided with structures in the drying case to reduce the spread of a fire in the event of a fire occurring in the drying device, thereby improving safety against fire.

According to the spirit of the present disclosure, the clothes treating apparatus may include a structure and material for improving rigidity of the drying case, thereby improving rigidity.

According to the spirit of the present disclosure, the clothes treating apparatus may have the drying case with a shape that secures a space for the components of the drying device, thereby improving the arrangement structure of components.

Effects that may be achieved according to the disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by one of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the disclosure belongs.

While the disclosure has been illustrated and described with reference to various example embodiments, it will be understood that the various example embodiments are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. It will be further understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications, alternatives and/or variations of the various example embodiments may be made without departing from the true technical spirit and full technical scope of the disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents. It will also be understood that any of the embodiment(s) described herein may be used in conjunction with any other embodiment(s) described herein.