WO2025048128A1 - Clothes care method and spot cleaning device - Google Patents

Abstract

This method comprises: a spot cleaning device transmitting an end signal notifying of the ending of a washing cycle, on the basis of the washing cycle, for washing clothes by means of the spot cleaning device, being completed by the spot cleaning device, wherein the spot cleaning device may be positioned inside a clothes treatment device so as to carry out the washing cycle for clothes located inside the clothes treatment device, and may be positioned outside the clothes treatment device so as to carry out the washing cycle for clothes located outside the clothes treatment device; and the clothes treatment device carrying out a clothes treatment cycle or providing an interface for starting the clothes treatment cycle, on the basis of the end signal being transmitted by the spot cleaning device.

Description

Clothing care methods and partial washing machines

The disclosed invention relates to a method for managing clothes performed by a clothes treatment device and a partial washing device, and to a partial washing device.

A garment treatment device is a device that performs garment treatment, such as washing wet garments, drying garments, removing dust attached to garments or odors from garments, and reducing wrinkles in garments.

Garment treatment devices can treat entire garments, but cannot satisfy the needs of users who only want to wash part of the garments.

According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, the needs of users who want to partially wash clothes can be satisfied.

According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, partially contaminated clothing can be quickly washed and made wearable.

According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, partial washing and drying of clothing can be performed without separate operation by the user.

The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

A method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a partial washing device transmitting a termination signal notifying the end of a washing cycle in which clothes are washed by the partial washing device based on the completion of the washing cycle by the partial washing device, wherein the partial washing device is positionable inside the clothes treatment device to perform the washing cycle on clothes located inside the clothes treatment device and positionable outside the clothes treatment device to perform the washing cycle on clothes located outside the clothes treatment device; and wherein the clothes treatment device performs a clothes treatment cycle or provides an interface for starting the clothes treatment cycle based on the termination signal being transmitted by the partial washing device.

A partial washing kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a fixed plate; a frame connectable with the fixed plate; a partial washing device connected to the frame; and a fixing member configured to fix the frame to the fixed plate; wherein the partial washing device may include: a moving device configured to move the partial washing device; a communication member configured to communicate with a garment treatment device; and a control member configured to control the partial washing device to perform the washing cycle on garments fixed to the fixed plate in response to receiving a start command for a washing cycle from the garment treatment device through the communication member, and to control the communication member to transmit a termination signal notifying the end of the washing cycle to the garment treatment device based on completion of the washing cycle.

FIG. 1a schematically illustrates an appearance of a clothing management system performing a clothing management method according to one embodiment.

FIG. 1b illustrates an example of a garment handling device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 1c illustrates another example of a garment handling device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 1d illustrates another example of a garment handling device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 illustrates a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 3 illustrates a partial washing device according to one embodiment from another angle.

Figure 4 is an exploded view of a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a drawing of a partial washing device according to one embodiment, with some of the configurations omitted to explain the water supply path and the drain path.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7 illustrates a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8 illustrates a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 10 illustrates a partial washing kit including a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 11 illustrates a state in which clothing is not fixed in a partial washing kit according to one embodiment.

FIG. 12 illustrates a different angle of a partial washing kit according to one embodiment of the invention, with clothing not secured thereto.

FIG. 13 illustrates a state in which clothing is fixed to a partial washing kit according to one embodiment.

FIG. 14 illustrates a different angle of clothing secured to a partial washing kit according to one embodiment.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a control block diagram of a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

Fig. 16 is a flowchart schematically illustrating the sequence of a washing operation of a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 17 illustrates an example of a partial washing device according to one embodiment of the present invention coming into contact with or moving away from clothing fixed to a fixed plate.

Fig. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a clothing management method according to one embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a clothing management method according to one embodiment.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example of an interface for selecting a partial wash cycle provided by a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 21 illustrates an example of feedback provided by a garment handling device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 22a illustrates an example of an interface for performing a garment treatment process provided by a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 22b illustrates another example of an interface for performing a garment treatment process provided by a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

In this document, each of the phrases "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" can include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations of them.

The term "and/or" includes any combination of multiple related described elements or any one of multiple related described elements.

Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being “coupled” or “connected” to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively,” it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

The terms "include" or "have" and the like are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in this document, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “contacted” with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

Meanwhile, the terms “front”, “back”, “left”, “right”, “up”, “down”, and other expressions related to direction used in the description below are defined based on the drawing, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

FIG. 1a schematically illustrates an appearance of a clothing management system performing a clothing management method according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 1a, a garment care system according to one embodiment may include a spot cleaning device (100) and a garment treatment device.

A spot washing device (100) is a device that can perform spot washing (spot cleaning) of clothes.

The partial washing device (100) can move on fixed clothing using a moving device and perform a washing process on the clothing.

A portion of clothing that is subject to partial washing may be referred to as a target portion. The target portion may be determined according to the user's settings or may be automatically determined by the partial washing device (100). The target portion may be a plurality of portions of clothing.

The partial washing device (100) may be arranged to spray water and a detergent onto the clothes. The detergent may include a detergent or a liquid mixed with water and a detergent. The partial washing device (100) may provide micro-vibrations to the clothes after spraying water and a detergent onto the clothes, or at the same time as spraying water and a detergent.

The partial washing kit (10) may include a partial washing device (100). The partial washing kit may be portable. The partial washing kit (10) may include a frame (250, see FIG. 10) configured to be coupled with the partial washing device (100) and a fixing plate (260, see FIG. 10) on which clothes are fixed.

Although the partial washing kit (10) is described as including the partial washing device (100), it is of course possible for the partial washing kit (10) to be defined as the partial washing device (100).

The clothing treatment device (20) is a device capable of treating clothing. The treatment of clothing may include clothing care, such as washing clothing, supplying hot air to clothing to dry clothing, removing dust attached to clothing or odors from clothing, or reducing wrinkles in clothing.

The garment treatment device (20) may include a garment manager, a dryer, and/or a dryer.

The partial washing device (100) can communicate with the clothes treatment device (20). The partial washing device (100) and the clothes treatment device (20) can perform various operations to improve user convenience by communicating with each other.

FIG. 1b illustrates an example of a garment handling device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 1b, a garment treatment device (20) according to one embodiment may include a garment manager (20a).

The clothing manager (20a) may include a cabinet (310) and a cabinet door (330) for opening and closing the cabinet (310). The cabinet (310) may form a management room (340). The cabinet door (330) may open and close the management room (340). The management room (340) may be provided to accommodate clothing. The clothing manager (20a) may supply steam to clothing accommodated in the management room (340) or blow air to the clothing.

The cabinet door (330) can be placed at the front of the cabinet (310).

A user interface device including an input interface for receiving a user's control command and an output interface for displaying various information about the operation of the clothing manager (20a) or displaying a screen for guiding the user's input may be placed at the front of the cabinet (310).

The garment manager (20a) may include a machine room (370). The machine room (370) may be a space formed to accommodate various parts. The machine room (370) may be arranged at the bottom of the garment manager (20a). The machine room (370) may be arranged below the management room (340).

The machine room (370) can be partitioned from the management office (340). The machine room (370) and the management office (340) can be partitioned by the management office bottom (342).

The first air inlet (344) may be formed on the lower surface of the management room (342). The first air inlet (344) may be provided to introduce air from the management room (340) into the machine room (370).

A machine room fan (374) may be placed in the machine room (370). The machine room fan (374) may be arranged to draw air into the machine room (370) through the first air inlet (344).

The machine room duct (373) can be connected to the machine room fan (374). Air sucked in through the first air inlet (344) can pass through the machine room duct (373).

A heat exchanger may be placed inside the machine room (370). The heat exchanger may include an evaporator (375), a condenser (376), and a compressor (377). The heat exchanger may be arranged to circulate a refrigerant to dehumidify and heat the air.

In the evaporator (375), the refrigerant absorbs latent heat of the surrounding air as it evaporates, and moisture in the air is condensed and removed. In addition, when the refrigerant is condensed in the condenser (376) through the compressor (377), the latent heat is released toward the surrounding air, thereby heating the surrounding air.

The air in the management room (340) is introduced into the machine room duct (373) of the machine room (370) through the first air inlet (344), and the introduced air can be dehumidified and heated and then discharged back into the management room (340) through the machine room duct outlet (384).

In this way, the clothing manager (20a) can supply hot air to the clothing accommodated inside the cabinet (310). The drying cycle of the clothing manager (20a) can include a cycle in which the clothing manager (20a) supplies hot air that has passed through a heat exchanger to the clothing accommodated inside the cabinet (310).

In one embodiment, the drying cycle of the garment manager (20a) may include a cycle in which the garment manager (20a) supplies hot air through a machine room duct outlet (384).

A steam generator that receives water from a water tank (371) and generates steam may be placed in the machine room (370). The steam generator may include a steam generator (381) that is connected to the water tank (371) and receives water to generate steam, and a steam supply pipe (382) that guides the generated steam to a steam injection unit (383).

In this way, the clothing manager (20a) can supply steam to clothing stored inside the cabinet (310).

The steam administration of the clothing manager (20a) may include an administration in which the clothing manager (20a) supplies steam to clothing stored inside the cabinet (310).

A second air inlet (345) may be formed at the rear of the management room (340). Air in the management room (340) may be introduced into the second air inlet (345) and moved to the circulation room (349) where a fan (361) is arranged. A filter (346) may be combined with the second air inlet (345).

However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the air inlet may be provided in various locations.

The clothing manager (20a) may include a circulation room (349). The circulation room (349) may be a space formed above the management room (340). The circulation room (349) and the management room (340) may be partitioned by a partition plate (341).

A fan (361) may be placed in the circulation room (349). Air sucked in by the fan (361) through the second airflow inlet (345) may move into the circulation room (349). The air may be introduced into the management room (340) through the first opening (350). The air may be discharged into the management room (340) through the discharge port (343).

In one embodiment, the fan (361) may be provided inside the fan housing (362). The fan housing (362) may include a fan housing outlet (363). As the fan (361) operates, air discharged through the fan housing outlet (363) may be discharged through the damper inlet (364) and the damper outlet (365) to the first opening (350).

Meanwhile, the clothing manager (20a) may include a damper (360). The damper (360) may be placed in the circulation room (349) to guide the direction of movement of air discharged from the fan (361). The damper (360) may open the first opening (350) so that the air may move into the management room (340) through the first opening (350).

In one embodiment, the garment manager (20a) may not include a damper (360).

The drying cycle of the clothing manager (20a) may include a cycle in which the clothing manager (20a) supplies wind to clothing stored inside the cabinet (310) through the discharge port (343).

FIG. 1c illustrates another example of a garment handling device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 1c, a garment treatment device (20) according to one embodiment may include a dryer (20b).

A dryer (20b) may include a cabinet (410) forming an exterior, a drum (420) rotatably installed in the cabinet (410) and containing items to be dried, a door (430) for opening and closing the drum (420), a driving device (460) for rotating the drum (420), and a heat pump device (475) for generating hot air to dry laundry (hereinafter, referred to as “items to be dried”) inside the drum (420).

A chamber (430a) formed by a drum (420) can accommodate a drying material.

The cabinet (410) may include a front cover. An opening may be provided in the front cover, and a door (430) for opening and closing the opening may be rotatably installed in the front cover.

A user interface device including an input interface for receiving a user's control command and an output interface (e.g., a display) for displaying various information about the operation of the dryer (20b) or an interface for guiding the user's input may be placed at the top of the front cover.

The drum (420) can be formed into a cylindrical shape with open front and rear sides.

The drum (420) can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise within the cabinet (410) by the driving force of the driving device (460).

A lifter (421) for tumbling the drying material may be provided on the inner surface of the drum (420). The lifter (421) may be formed to protrude toward the center from the inner surface of the drum (420).

In one embodiment, the lifter (421) may include a protrusion or hole upon which a hanger may be hung.

A front support plate and a rear support plate are respectively provided on the front and rear of the drum (420). The front of the drum (420) may be covered by a front support plate fixedly installed on the front of the cabinet (410), and the rear of the drum (420) may be covered by a rear support plate fixedly installed on the rear of the cabinet (410).

Here, the front support plate and the rear support plate can rotatably support the drum (420).

To this end, a sliding pad for reducing frictional resistance may be provided at the portion where the front support plate and the drum (420) come into contact, and at the portion where the rear support plate and the drum (420) come into contact, respectively, and a roller for rotatably supporting the drum (420) may be provided at the lower portions of the front support plate and the rear support plate, respectively. Accordingly, the drum (420) may rotate smoothly.

During the drying process, the drum (420) can be rotated by a driving device (460).

The driving device (460) may include a driving motor that generates power to rotate the drum (420) and a driving circuit for driving the driving motor.

According to various embodiments, the driving motor of the driving device (460) may be connected only to the drum (420), or may be connected to the drum (420) and the blower fan (451). In one embodiment, a pulley connected to the drum (420) may be coupled to one side of the shaft of the driving motor of the driving device (460), and a blower fan (451) may be coupled to the other side.

For convenience of explanation, below, a motor for rotating a drum (420) is defined as a drum motor, and a motor for rotating a blower fan (451) is defined as a fan motor.

However, the drum motor and fan motor may be the same motor or different motors.

An electrode sensor (46) may be provided in the drum (420). As the object to be dried is accommodated in the drum (420) rotates, it may come into contact with the electrode sensor (46), and the electric signal measured by the electrode sensor (46) may vary depending on the dryness of the object to be dried. That is, the electrode sensor (46) outputs an electric signal corresponding to the dryness of the object to be dried accommodated in the drum (420). Here, the dryness may mean the degree of dryness of the object to be dried.

The heat pump device (475) may include a heat exchanger (470), a compressor (473), and an expansion valve (not shown).

The heat exchanger (470) may include an evaporator (471) and a condenser (472).

The heat pump device (475) has a refrigerant circulation path that connects from a compressor (473) to a condenser (472), an expansion valve, and an evaporator (471) and then back to the compressor, with the condenser (472) and the evaporator (471) acting as a heat exchanger (470).

The evaporator (471) may be located upstream of the condenser (472) with respect to the air flow.

The heat exchanger (470) can heat the air flowing into the drum (420).

Air passing through the chamber (430a) formed by the drum (420) can be dried while passing through the evaporator (471), heated while passing through the condenser (472), and then flowed back into the chamber (430a).

The blower fan (451) can cause air that has passed through the chamber (430a) formed by the drum (420) to pass through the evaporator (471) and the condenser (472) and then flow back into the chamber (430a).

That is, the blower fan (451) can create an air flow that circulates through the inside (chamber) (430a) of the drum (420) and the heat exchanger (470). To this end, the blower fan (451) can be provided within a duct (480) through which air discharged from the drum (420) flows.

In one embodiment, the blower fan (451) may be provided downstream of the condenser (472), but the location of the blower fan (451) is not limited thereto, and the blower fan (451) may be installed at any location without limitation as long as it can create air flow within the duct (480).

A dryer (20b) according to one embodiment may include a lint removal device (490). In addition to a door (430) that opens and closes an opening, the front cover may further include an auxiliary door that opens and closes a space in which the lint removal device (490) is accommodated.

The user can withdraw or insert the lint removal device (490) through the auxiliary door.

The lint removal device (490) can collect and remove lint (fluff) contained in the air discharged from the chamber (430a). For this purpose, the lint removal device (490) can include a filter.

The lint removal device (490) may be placed within the duct (480) through which air discharged from the drum (420) flows. The lint removal device (490) may be placed upstream of the heat exchanger (470), and the lint removal device (490) may prevent lint from accumulating in the heat exchanger (470) by removing lint in the air passing through the drum (420).

According to various embodiments, the dryer (20b) may further include a heater (47). The heater (47) is intended to heat the air supplied to the chamber (430a) more quickly and may be operated for a predetermined period of time at the beginning of the drying cycle.

In one embodiment, the heater (47) may be provided downstream of the heat exchanger (470).

Air that is introduced into the duct (480) from the inside of the drum (430a) through the inlet (483d) can pass through the lint removal device (490), the heat exchanger (470), and the heater (47) and be discharged into the inside of the drum (430a) through the outlet (482c).

The high temperature and humid air that has passed through the drying material inside the drum (430a) can be introduced into the duct (480) again through the inlet (483).

During the drying process of the dryer (20b), air dehumidified and heated by the heat exchanger (470) is introduced into the inside of the drum (430a), and after drying the object to be dried contained in the inside of the drum (430a), the air is introduced again into the duct (480) and dehumidified and heated by the heat exchanger (470), and the process can be repeated.

The drying process of the dryer (20b) may include a process in which the dryer (20b) rotates the drum (420) and supplies hot air to clothes accommodated inside the cabinet (310) (chamber (430a)).

The drying process of the dryer (20b) may include a process in which the dryer (20b) supplies hot air to clothes stored inside the cabinet (310) (chamber (430a)) while stopping the drum (420).

The cycle in which the dryer (20b) supplies hot air to clothes stored inside the cabinet (310) (chamber (430a)) while stopping the drum (420) can be defined as a drying cycle without rotation of the drum (420).

FIG. 1d illustrates another example of a garment handling device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 1d, a garment treatment device (20) according to one embodiment may include a washing machine (20c).

The washing machine (20c) according to one embodiment may be a drum-type washing machine that washes laundry by rotating the drum (530) and repeatedly causing the laundry to rise and fall, or may be an electric washing machine that washes laundry by using a water current generated by a pulsator when the drum (530) rotates. However, in the embodiment described below, for the sake of explanation, a case in which the washing machine (20c) according to one embodiment is a drum-type washing machine will be described as an example.

The washing machine (20c) may include a cabinet (501) forming an exterior. In addition, the washing machine (20c) may further include a door (502), a control panel (510), a tub (520), a drum (530), a driving unit (540), a water supply unit (550), a drain unit (560), and a detergent supply unit (570).

An inlet (501a) for putting in or taking out laundry may be provided at the center of the front of the cabinet (501).

A door (502) may be provided in the inlet (501a). The door (502) may be rotatably mounted on the cabinet (501) by a hinge.

The door (502) can open and close the inlet (501a), and the closure of the inlet (501a) by the door (502) can be detected by the door switch. When the inlet (501a) is closed and the washing machine (20c) is in operation, the door (502) can be locked by the door lock.

A user interface device including an input interface for obtaining user input from a user regarding the washing machine (20c) and an output interface (e.g., a display) for displaying information regarding operation information of the washing machine (20c) or an interface for guiding the user's input may be provided on the upper front side of the cabinet (501).

A tub (520) is provided inside the cabinet (501) and can accommodate water for washing and/or rinsing.

The tub (520) may include a tub front part (521) having an opening (521a) formed at the front and a tub rear part (522) having a cylindrical shape with a closed rear.

An opening (521a) may be provided on the front of the tub front part (521) for loading laundry into a drum (530) provided in the tub (520) or for taking laundry out of the drum (530). A bearing (522a) for rotatably fixing a motor (541) may be provided on the rear wall of the tub rear part (522).

The drum (530) is rotatably arranged inside the tub (520) and can accommodate laundry.

The drum (530) may include a cylindrical drum body (531), a drum front part (532) provided at the front of the drum body (531), and a drum rear part (533) provided at the rear of the drum body (531).

The inner surface of the drum body (531) may be provided with a hole (531a) connecting the inside of the drum (530) and the inside of the tub (520) and a lifter (534) for lifting laundry to the upper part of the drum (530) during rotation of the drum (530).

In one embodiment, the lifter (534) may include a protrusion or hole upon which a hanger may be hung.

The drum front part (532) may be provided with an opening (532a) for feeding laundry into the drum (530) or taking laundry out of the drum (530). The drum rear part (533) may be connected to a shaft (541a) of a motor (541) that rotates the drum (530).

The driving unit (540) may include a motor (541) that rotates the drum (530).

The motor (541) is provided on the outside of the tub rear part (522) of the tub (520) and can be connected to the drum rear part (533) of the drum (530) through a shaft (541a). The shaft (541a) penetrates the tub rear part (522) and is rotatably supported by a bearing (522a) provided in the tub rear part (522).

The motor (541) may include a stator (542) fixed to the outside of the tub rear part (522) and a rotor (543) rotatably provided and connected to a shaft (541a). The rotor (543) may rotate through magnetic interaction with the stator (542), and the rotation of the rotor (543) may be transmitted to the drum (530) through the shaft (541a).

The motor (541) may include, for example, a brushless direct current motor (BLDC motor) or a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) whose rotation speed can be easily controlled.

The water supply unit (550) can supply water to the tub (520).

The water supply unit (550) may include a water supply pipe (551) connected to an external water source to supply water to the tub (520), and a water supply valve (552) provided on the water supply pipe (551).

A water supply pipe (551) is provided on the upper side of the tub (520) and can extend from an external water source to the detergent tank (571). Water can be guided to the tub (520) through the detergent tank (571).

The water supply valve (552) can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub (520) in response to an electrical signal. The water supply valve (552) can include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

The drain (560) can discharge water contained in the tub (520) and/or drum (530) to the outside.

The drain unit (560) is provided on the lower side of the tub (520) and includes a drain pipe (561) extending from the tub (520) to the outside of the cabinet (501), and a drain pump (562) provided on the drain pipe (561). The drain pump (562) can pump water in the drain pipe (561) to the outside of the cabinet (501).

The detergent supply unit (570) can supply detergent to the tub (520) and/or drum (530).

The detergent supply unit (570) may include a detergent container (571) provided on the upper side of the tub (520) to store detergent, and a mixing pipe (572) connecting the detergent container (571) to the tub (520).

The detergent container (571) is connected to the water supply pipe (551), and water supplied through the water supply pipe (551) can be mixed with detergent in the detergent container (571). The mixture of detergent and water can be supplied to the tub (520) through the mixing pipe (572).

The washing machine (20c) can perform washing, rinsing, and spin-drying operations.

By the washing process, laundry accommodated in the interior (drum (530)) of the cabinet (501) can be washed. Specifically, foreign substances attached to the laundry can be separated by the chemical action of the detergent and/or mechanical action such as dropping.

By the rinsing cycle, laundry contained in the interior of the cabinet (501) (drum (530)) can be rinsed. Specifically, detergent or foreign substances left on the laundry can be washed away by water.

By the dehydration process, laundry contained in the interior (drum (530)) of the cabinet (501) can be dehydrated. Specifically, water is separated from the laundry by the high-speed rotation of the drum (530), and the separated water can be discharged to the outside of the washing machine (20c).

Figure 2 illustrates a partial washing device according to one embodiment. Figure 3 illustrates a partial washing device according to one embodiment from another angle.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the partial washing device (100) may include a water spray unit (101) configured to spray water, a detergent spray unit (102) configured to spray detergent, a vibration unit (103) configured to contact clothes and provide micro-vibrations to the clothes, and a suction unit (104) configured to suck water and detergent.

In one embodiment, the partial washing device (100) may include at least one sensor (108) that collects sensor data related to clothing positioned in the water spray direction of the water spray unit (101) and/or the detergent spray direction of the detergent spray unit (102). The at least one sensor (108) may include a camera and/or an optical sensor.

The camera may have a shooting direction directed toward clothes placed in the water spray direction of the water spray unit (101) and/or the washing liquid spray direction of the washing liquid spray unit (102). The light sensor may include a light irradiation unit and a light reception unit, and the light irradiation unit and the light reception unit may have an irradiation direction and a reception direction directed toward clothes placed in the water spray direction of the water spray unit (101) and/or the washing liquid spray direction of the washing liquid spray unit (102).

At least one sensor (108) may be located at the upper side of the lower surface of the partial washing device (100). For example, at least one sensor (108) may be provided above the detergent spraying portion (102). According to the present disclosure, at least one sensor (108) may be prevented from being contaminated by contaminated water, and if at least one sensor (108) includes a camera, the angle of view of the camera may be secured.

The water spray unit (101) can spray water toward the clothes. The detergent spray unit (102) can spray a detergent mixed with water and detergent toward the clothes. The vibration unit (103) can wash the clothes by coming into contact with the clothes and providing micro-vibrations to the clothes. The suction unit (104) can suck up water, detergent, and foreign substances sprayed on the clothes.

The partial washing device (100) may further include a roller unit (105) that is provided to remove foreign substances on clothes by rotating. The partial washing device (100) may include a motor (not shown) that is provided to rotate the roller unit (105). The roller unit (105) can wash a target area of clothes together with the vibrating unit (103). The roller unit (105) can wash clothes by coming into contact with the clothes. The roller unit (105) can physically come into contact with clothes on which water and a detergent have been sprayed, thereby allowing contaminants on the clothes to be well mixed with the detergent. In addition, the roller unit (105) can remove foreign substances such as dust on the clothes by coming into contact with the clothes.

The roller portion (105) may be brush-shaped. Unlike what is shown in the drawing, the partial washing device (100) may not include the roller portion (105). As another example, the partial washing device (100) may include the roller portion (105) instead of the vibrating portion (103).

According to one embodiment, the partial washing device (100) may include a water tank (120) including a water supply tank (121, see FIG. 4) provided to supply water sprayed from a water spray unit (101) and a drain tank (122, see FIG. 4) provided to store water sucked from a suction unit (104). The interior of the water tank (120) may be partitioned into a water supply tank (121) and a drain tank (122) by a partition wall (123, see FIG. 4). According to various embodiments, the partial washing device (100) may also include separate water supply tanks and drain tanks, respectively.

The water tank (120) may include a first water tank opening (121a) through which water is supplied to the water tank (121) or through which water is discharged from the water tank (121). The water tank (120) may include a second water tank opening (122a) through which water, cleaning liquid, foreign substances, etc. are introduced into the drain tank (122) or through which water, cleaning liquid, foreign substances, etc. are discharged from the drain tank (122).

For convenience of explanation, below, the surface where the water spray unit (101), the detergent spray unit (102), the vibrating unit (103), the suction unit (104), and/or the roller unit (105) are provided is defined as the lower surface of the partial washing device (100).

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the water tank (120) can be detachably connected to the partial washing device (100). The user can fill the water tank (121) of the water tank (120) with water and then connect it to the partial washing device (100). After separating the water tank (120) from the partial washing device (100), the user can discharge the water, detergent, and foreign substances filled in the drain tank (122). According to one embodiment, the water tank (120) can be detached to the side of the partial washing device (100).

In one embodiment, unlike that shown in the drawing, the water tank (120) may be separated from the upper surface of the partial washing device (100).

When the water tank (120) is provided on the upper surface of the partial washing device (100) as illustrated in FIG. 9, the user can separate the water tank (120) from the partial washing device (100) or attach it to the partial washing device (100) without separating the partial washing device (100) from the frame (250, see FIG. 10).

The partial washing device (100) may include a water tank insertion part (106) into which a water tank (120) is inserted, and a water tank fixing part (106a, 106b) that fixes the water tank (120) inserted into the water tank insertion part (106) to prevent the water tank (120) from being pulled out of the water tank insertion part (106) by gravity.

The water bottle fixing portion (106a, 106b) may be provided adjacent to the water bottle insertion portion (106). The water bottle fixing portion (106a, 106b) may be provided to be rotatable. The water bottle fixing portion (106a, 106b) may be provided to be rotatable between a fixing position that prevents a water bottle (120) inserted into the water bottle insertion portion (106) from being pulled out from the water bottle insertion portion (106), and a fixing release position that allows a water bottle (120) inserted into the water bottle insertion portion (106) to be pulled out from the water bottle insertion portion (106). The water bottle fixing portions (106a, 106b) may be provided as a pair. However, the number and arrangement of the water bottle fixing portions may be changed. Alternatively, a water tank fixing part may not be provided, and an elastic protrusion may be provided on the water tank (120) so that the water tank (120) can be fitted into the water tank insertion part (106).

The partial washing device (100) may include a detergent inlet (107) provided to inject detergent into the detergent box. In one embodiment, differently from that shown in the drawing, the detergent inlet (107) may be provided on the side of the partial washing device (100) or may be provided on the upper surface of the partial washing device (100).

When a detergent inlet (107) is provided on the upper surface of the partial washing device (100), a user can inject detergent into the detergent container through the detergent inlet (107) without separating the partial washing device (100) from the frame (250, see FIG. 10).

The partial washing device (100) is provided to cover the detergent inlet (107) and may further include an inlet cover (130) that is detachably coupled to the detergent inlet (107). As shown in FIG. 2, when the detergent inlet (107) is provided on the upper surface of the partial washing device (100), the inlet cover (130) may be omitted. This is because even without the inlet cover, detergent does not flow out through the detergent inlet.

The partial washing device (100) may include moving parts (111, 112, 113, 114). The moving parts (111, 112, 113, 114) may include a first moving part (111) provided to be connected to a first shaft (211) and a second moving part (112). The moving parts (111, 112, 113, 114) may include a third moving part (113) provided to be connected to a second shaft (231) and a fourth moving part (114). The moving parts (111, 112, 113, 114) may be provided to move along a first direction as the first shaft (211) and the second shaft (231) rotate.

The first moving part (111) and the second moving part (112) can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the first direction. The third moving part (113) and the fourth moving part (114) can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the first direction. The first direction can refer to the up-down direction or the vertical direction. Accordingly, the first moving part (111) and the second moving part (112) can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other vertically, and the third moving part (113) and the fourth moving part (114) can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other vertically.

Each of the moving parts (111, 112, 113, 114) may include a hole through which a shaft passes. Screw threads corresponding to screw threads formed on the first shaft (211, see FIG. 10) or the second shaft (231, see FIG. 10) may be formed within the hole of each of the moving parts (111, 112, 113, 114). Through this, as the first shaft (211) rotates in one direction, the first moving part (111) and the second moving part (112) may move upward or downward, and as the first shaft (211) rotates in the other direction, the first moving part (111) and the second moving part (112) may move downward or upward. Likewise, as the second shaft (231) rotates in one direction, the third moving part (113) and the fourth moving part (114) can move upward or downward, and as the second shaft (231) rotates in the other direction, the third moving part (113) and the fourth moving part (114) can move downward or upward. The one direction and the other direction in which the shaft rotates can refer to the clockwise (CW) and counterclockwise (CCW), respectively.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a partial washing device according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a drawing of a partial washing device according to one embodiment, with some of the components omitted to explain a water supply path and a drain path. FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 4, the partial washing device (100) may include a housing (110), a water supply pump (140) accommodated inside the housing (110), a drain pump (150), a driving motor (160), and a housing cover (110a). The partial washing device (100) may further include a detergent box (131), a substrate (118a), and a battery (118b).

The housing (110) may be provided in a form in which one side is open. The housing (110) may include the first moving part (111), the second moving part (112), the third moving part (113), and the fourth moving part (114) described above. A water supply pump (140), a drainage pump (150), and a driving motor (160) described later may be accommodated inside the housing (110). A detergent box (131) may be provided inside the housing (110), and a substrate (118a) and a battery (118b) may be accommodated. A housing cover (110a) may be provided to cover one open side of the housing (110).

According to one embodiment, the housing (110) may include a water tank insertion portion (106) provided to allow a water tank (120) to be introduced or withdrawn, and a water tank receiving portion (117) provided to receive a water tank (120) introduced into the housing (110) through the water tank insertion portion (106). The water tank receiving portion (117) may be provided with a water supply connection portion (117b) connected to a first water tank opening (121a) of the water tank (120), and a drain connection portion (117a) connected to a second water tank opening (122a) of the water tank (120).

Referring to FIG. 4, the partial washing device (100) may include a driving motor (160) that provides driving force to rotate the roller portion (105), and a gear portion (161) that is arranged to transmit the driving force of the driving motor (160) to the roller portion (105). According to one embodiment, the gear portion (161) may include a first gear (162) connected to a driving shaft of the driving motor (160), a second gear (164) connected to the roller portion (105), and a third gear (163) that is arranged to mesh with the first gear (162) and the second gear (164) between the first gear (162) and the second gear (164). The third gear (163) may be connected to a gear connection portion (163a) of the housing cover (110a).

The partial washing device (100) may include a vibrator (103a) provided to provide micro-vibrations to the vibrating unit (103). The vibrator (103a) may be provided in multiples, and for example, four vibrators (103a) may be provided inside the vibrating unit (103). The vibrator (103a) may be placed inside the housing (110) when the housing cover (110a) is coupled to the housing (110). The vibrator (103a) may include a piezoelectric element.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the partial washing machine (100) may include a water supply pump (140) configured to move water stored in a water supply tank (121) to a water spray unit (101) and a detergent spray unit (102). The water supply pump (140) may be connected to a first water supply duct (141) and a second water supply duct (142). Water may move into the first water supply duct (141) and the second water supply duct (142), and the first water supply duct (141) and the second water supply duct (142) may form a path through which water moves. The first water supply duct (141) may connect a water supply connection unit (117b) and the water supply pump (140). The second water supply duct (142) may connect the water supply pump (140) and the water spray unit (101). As the water supply pump (140) operates, water in the water supply tank (121) can flow into the water supply pump (140) through the first water tank opening (121a), the water supply connection (117b), and the first water supply duct (141). The water flowing into the water supply pump (140) can be discharged into the second water supply duct (142). Since the second water supply duct (142) is connected to the water spray unit (101), the water discharged into the second water supply duct (142) can be sprayed to the outside of the partial washing device (100) through the water spray unit (101).

According to one embodiment, the partial washing device (100) may further include a third water supply duct (143) branching from a point of the second water supply duct (142). The third water supply duct (143) may be connected to a connection duct (133) to be described later. Water in the third water supply duct (143) may be mixed with detergent in the detergent box (131) inside the connection duct (133) and then sprayed to the outside of the partial washing device (100) through the detergent spray unit (102).

In one embodiment, the partial washing device (100) may include at least one damper (not shown) or valve (not shown) configured to allow or block the supply of water to the water spray unit (101) by opening or closing the first water supply duct (141), and to allow or block the supply of water to the detergent spray unit (102) by opening or closing the third water supply duct (143).

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the partial washing device (100) may include a drain pump (150) configured to move water, detergent, and foreign substances from a suction portion (104) to a drain pan (122). The drain pump (150) may be connected to a first drain duct (151) and a second drain duct (152). Water may move into the first drain duct (151) and the second drain duct (152), and the first drain duct (151) and the second drain duct (152) may form a path through which water moves. The first drain duct (151) may connect the suction portion (104) and the drain pump (150). The second drain duct (152) may connect the drain pump (150) and a drain connection portion (117a). As the drain pump (150) operates, water, cleaning liquid, and foreign substances can flow into the drain pump (150) through the first drain duct (151) via the suction portion (104). The water, cleaning liquid, and foreign substances flowing into the drain pump (150) can be discharged through the second drain duct (152). Since the second drain duct (152) is connected to the drain tank (122) through the drain connection portion (117a) and the second water tank opening (122a), the water, cleaning liquid, and foreign substances discharged through the second drain duct (152) can be stored in the drain tank (122).

The partial washing device (100) may include a detergent box (131) provided to accommodate detergent. According to one embodiment, the detergent box (131) may be formed integrally with the housing (110). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the detergent box (131) may be provided as a separate component accommodated inside the housing (110) and separable from the housing (110). The detergent box (131) may be connected to a detergent inlet (107). Detergent introduced through the detergent inlet (107) may be stored in the detergent box (131).

The detergent box (131) may include a detergent discharge port (131a). The detergent inside the detergent box (131) may be discharged to the outside of the detergent box (131) through the detergent discharge port (131a).

The detergent box discharge port (131a) may be connected to a detergent duct (132). The detergent duct (132) may form a path through which the detergent moves. The detergent duct (132) may be connected to a connection duct (133). The connection duct (133) may be provided in the form of a T-shaped valve. The connection duct (133) may include two inlets and one outlet. One of the two inlets of the connection duct (133) may be connected to a third water supply duct (143), and the other may be connected to the detergent duct (132). The outlet of the connection duct (133) may be connected to a detergent spray unit (102).

Referring to FIG. 6, the connecting duct (133) may include a first inlet (133a) connected to a third-grade water duct (143), a second inlet (133c) connected to a detergent duct (132), and an outlet (133d) connected to a detergent spray unit (102). Water flowing in through the first inlet (133a) and detergent flowing in through the second inlet (133c) may be mixed inside the connecting duct (133), and then the mixed detergent may be discharged through the outlet (133d).

The connecting duct (133) may include a nozzle part (133b) provided at one end of the first inlet (133a). One end of the nozzle part (133b) may have the same diameter as the first inlet (133a) so as to be connected to the first inlet (133a). The other end of the nozzle part (133b) may have a smaller diameter than the first inlet (133a). That is, the nozzle part (133b) may be provided so that its diameter decreases from one end of the nozzle part (133b) to the other end. Due to the structure of the nozzle part (133b), the flow rate of water flowing into one end of the nozzle part (133b) may increase when it is discharged from the other end of the nozzle part (133b). This is because the pressure decreases and the flow rate increases as the flow path area decreases while passing through the nozzle part (133b). As the pressure of the fluid decreases at the other end of the nozzle portion (133b), the detergent inside the detergent duct (132) moves into the connection duct (133) having a relatively low pressure. Water passing through the other end of the nozzle portion (133b) and detergent introduced through the second inlet (133c) can be mixed inside the connection duct (133). The washing liquid mixed with water and detergent can be discharged through the discharge port (133d) of the connection duct (133). Since the discharge port (133d) is connected to the washing liquid spray portion (102), the water and detergent mixed inside the connection duct (133) can be sprayed to the outside of the partial washing device (100) through the washing liquid spray portion (102). As described above, the connection duct (133) includes the nozzle portion (133b) therein, so that water and detergent can be automatically mixed using the pressure difference without a separate driving device.

The partial washing device (100) may include a battery (118b) provided to supply power to the electric components (e.g., a water supply pump (140), a drainage pump (150), a driving motor (160), and/or a vibrator (103a)), and a charging terminal (115) provided to charge the battery (118b). The charging terminal (115) may include a positive electrode (115a) and a negative electrode (115b).

The partial washing device (100) may further include a charging port (not shown) for charging the battery (118b). A charging terminal (115) may be exposed through the charging port for charging the battery (118b), and the battery (118b) may be charged by connecting the charging terminal (115) to a charging cable that supplies power from the outside.

The partial washing device (100) may include a substrate (118a) on which electronic components (e.g., a control unit (180) and a communication unit (190) of FIG. 15) to be described later are mounted. The substrate (118a) may be accommodated inside a housing (110). In addition to the control unit (180) and the communication unit (190) described above, various components (e.g., a heat sink) may be mounted on the substrate (118a) as needed.

FIG. 7 illustrates a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 7, a partial washing device (100) according to one embodiment may include a water spraying unit (101), a detergent spraying unit (102), a vibrating unit (103), and/or a suction unit (104). In other words, the partial washing device (100) may be configured to include only the vibrating unit (103) among the vibrating unit (103) and the roller unit (105).

FIG. 8 illustrates a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 8, a partial washing device (100) according to one embodiment may include a water spraying unit (101), a detergent spraying unit (102), a roller unit (105), and a suction unit (104). In other words, the partial washing device (100) may be configured to include only the roller unit (105) among the vibrating unit (103) and the roller unit (105).

FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 9, a partial washing device (100) according to one embodiment may include a user interface device (170).

The user interface device (170) may include an input interface device (170a) and an output interface device (170b).

The input interface device (170a) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

The input interface device (170a) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a communication button. The input interface device (170a) 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 power button may be a button to turn the power of the partial washing device (100) on or off.

Based on the power button being pressed, the battery (118b) can supply power to the substrate (118a) or cut off power supplied to the substrate (118a).

In response to the partial washing device (100) being powered on, the battery (118b) can supply power to the substrate (118a).

The action button may be a button for starting a washing cycle of the partial washing device (100). That is, the action button may receive a user input for starting a washing cycle.

Based on the pressing of the action button, the control unit (180, see FIG. 15) can start the washing cycle.

The partial washing device (100) can start a washing cycle corresponding to a washing course selected by a course selection button when the operation button is pressed.

The course selection button may be a button for selecting a washing course of a partial washing device (100).

In one embodiment, the washing course of the partial washing device (100) may include an automatic washing course and a normal washing course.

An automatic wash course may include a process in which the partial washing device (100) detects a contaminated area of clothing and automatically washes it without the user having to manually set a target area.

The partial washing device (100) moves based on the start of an automatic washing course, scans the clothing, identifies a contaminated area of the clothing, and performs a washing cycle for the targeted area by using the contaminated area of the clothing as the target area.

A manual washing course may include a process in which a user aligns a target portion of clothing to a preset position of a partial washing device (100), and then the partial washing device (100) washes the target portion aligned to the preset position (target position).

The target location may change depending on the user's settings.

The user can set any one of the first position corresponding to the water spray unit (101), the second position corresponding to the detergent spray unit (102), the third position corresponding to the vibrating unit (103), the fourth position corresponding to the suction unit (104), or the fifth position corresponding to the roller unit (105) as the target position.

For example, if the third position corresponding to the vibrating part (103) is set as the target position, when the manual washing course starts, the partial washing device (100) can perform the washing process with the third position corresponding to the vibrating part (103) as the target area.

In one embodiment, the course selection button may be omitted.

The communication button may be a button for activating the communication unit (190) of the partial washing device (100).

The partial washing device (100) can establish communication with the clothes treatment device (20) by activating the communication unit (190) when the communication button is pressed.

The output interface device (170b) can transmit various information related to the operation of the partial washing device (100) to the user by generating sensory information.

For example, the output interface device (170b) can transmit the operation time, operation-related information, and status information of the partial washing device (100) to the user. The operation time, operation-related information, and status information of the partial washing device (100) can be output through a screen, an indicator, a voice, and the like. The output interface device (170b) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) module, a speaker, and the like.

The operating time of the partial washing device (100) may include the remaining time remaining for the partial washing device (100) to complete the washing cycle.

Information about the operation of the partial washing device (100) may include information about the operation that the partial washing device (100) is performing (e.g., water spraying, detergent spraying, vibration unit operation).

The status information of the partial washing device (100) may include information on the communication status of the partial washing device (100), information on the status of the battery (118b) (e.g., battery remaining amount), information on the amount of water in the water tank (120), information on the amount of detergent in the detergent box (131), etc.

A handle may be provided on the upper surface of the partial washing device (100) to secure or release the water tank (120) to or from the partial washing device (100). By turning the handle, the user can detach the water tank (120) from the partial washing device (100) or attach the water tank (120) to the partial washing device (100).

According to various embodiments, the partial washing device (100) may be installed in a home appliance (e.g., a clothes manager (20b)) and/or a piece of furniture (e.g., a closet).

In one embodiment, the spot cleaning device (100) may be provided in a portable form as a component of a spot cleaning kit (10).

FIG. 10 illustrates a partial washing kit including a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 10, a partial washing kit (10) according to one embodiment may include a fixed plate (260) and a frame (250) connectable with the fixed plate (260).

The fixed plate (260) is a plate on which clothes to be partially washed can be placed, and may include a flat plate.

The fixed plate (260) may be formed of a material such as metal or plastic, but the material of the fixed plate (260) is not limited thereto. In order to improve the portability of the partial washing kit (10), the material of the fixed plate (260) may be composed of a low-density material (e.g., aluminum, plastic).

A partial washing device (100) can be combined with the frame (250).

The frame (250) can support the partial washing device (100) so that the partial washing device (100) can move in a first direction within the frame (250). The frame (250) can extend along the first direction. The frame (250) can accommodate the partial washing device (100), the first motor (210), the second motor (230), the first shaft (211), and the second shaft (231).

The frame (250) can accommodate the partial washing device (100) such that at least a portion (e.g., an upper surface) of the partial washing device (100) is exposed to the outside of the partial washing kit (10). The frame (250) can support the partial washing device (100) such that the partial washing device (100) is movable within the frame (250). The frame (250) extends along a first direction, and the partial washing device (100) is movable within the frame (250) along the first direction. The partial washing device (100) is movable up and down within the frame (250).

The frame (250) may include a frame cover (280) and a frame body (270) coupled to the frame cover (280).

The frame cover (280) may include a first frame hole (285) into which the partial washing device (100) is inserted. The partial washing device (100) may be inserted into the first frame hole (285). At least a portion of the partial washing device (100) may pass through the first frame hole (285) and protrude outwardly from the frame cover (280). The first frame hole (285) may extend in a first direction (e.g., up and down) to guide movement of the partial washing device (100) in the first direction. The partial washing device (100) may move along the first direction within the first frame hole (285). Unlike what is illustrated in the drawing, the frame cover (280) may not include a frame hole and the partial washing device (100) may be accommodated within the frame body.

Although not shown in the drawing, according to various embodiments, the frame cover (280) may be coupled with a frame shaft extending in a second direction (e.g., left-right direction), and the frame shaft may be connected to a frame motor. In this case, the frame shaft and the frame motor may be provided in another frame larger than the frame (250).

When the frame cover (280) is coupled with a frame shaft extending in the second direction, the frame cover (280) may be movable in the second direction according to the driving force generated from the frame motor. As the frame cover (280) is movable in the second direction, the partial washing device (100) coupled to the frame cover (280) may also be movable in the second direction.

The frame body (270) can be coupled to the frame cover (280) to cover an open side of the frame cover (280). The frame body (270) can be coupled to the frame cover (280) to form an internal space of the frame (250) that accommodates the partial washing device (100), the first motor (210), the second motor (230), the first shaft (211), and the second shaft (231).

The frame body (270) may include a first shaft support member (271, 272) provided to support the first shaft (211) and a second shaft support member (273, 274) provided to support the second shaft (231). The frame body (270) may include a first motor mounting member (275) on which the first motor (210) is mounted and a second motor mounting member (276) on which the second motor (230) is mounted. The frame body (270) may include a second frame hole (277) formed through the frame body (270) so that the partial washing device (100) is exposed to the outside.

The first shaft support (271, 272) may be connected to the first shaft (211). The first shaft support (271, 272) may include a first upper support (271) provided adjacent to an upper side of one side of the frame body (270) and a first lower support (272) provided adjacent to a lower side of one side of the frame body (270). The first upper support (271) and the first lower support (272) may each include a hole provided to allow the first shaft (211) to pass therethrough. The first shaft (211) may rotate within the first upper support (271) and the first lower support (272). The first shaft (211) may idly rotate within the first upper support (271) and the first lower support (272). In other words, even if the first shaft (211) rotates within the first upper support (271) and the first lower support (272), the first upper support (271) and the first lower support (272) may not move along the first direction.

The second shaft support (273, 274) may be connected to the second shaft (231). The second shaft support (273, 274) may include a second upper support (273) provided adjacent to the other upper side of the frame body (270) and a second lower support (274) provided adjacent to the other lower side of the frame body (270). The second upper support (273) and the second lower support (274) may each include a hole provided to allow the second shaft (231) to pass therethrough. The second shaft (231) may rotate within the second upper support (273) and the second lower support (274). The second shaft (231) may idly rotate within the second upper support (273) and the second lower support (274). In other words, even if the second shaft (231) rotates within the second upper support (273) and the second lower support (274), the second upper support (273) and the second lower support (274) may not move along the first direction.

The first motor (210) can be mounted on the first motor mounting portion (275). Although the specific structure is not shown in the drawing, the first motor mounting portion (275) can support the first motor (210) in various structures. For example, the first motor mounting portion (275) can include an elastic protrusion so that the first motor (210) can be fitted and connected to the first motor mounting portion (275).

A second motor (230) may be mounted on the second motor mounting portion (276). Although the specific structure is not shown in the drawing, the second motor mounting portion (276) may support the second motor (230) in various structures. For example, the second motor mounting portion (276) may include an elastic protrusion so that the second motor (230) may be fitted and connected to the second motor mounting portion (276).

The frame body (270) may include a second frame hole (277) into which a partial washing device (100) is inserted. The partial washing device (100) may be inserted into the second frame hole (277). At least a portion of the partial washing device (100) may pass through the second frame hole (277) and protrude outwardly from the frame body (270). The partial washing device (100) may be exposed toward the fixed plate (260) through the second frame hole (277). The partial washing device (100) exposed toward the fixed plate (260) may partially wash clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260). The second frame hole (277) may extend in a first direction to guide movement of the partial washing device (100) in the first direction. The partial washing device (100) may move along the first direction within the second frame hole (277).

As described above, the partial washing device (100) can move along a first direction (e.g., up and down) within the frame (250). According to various embodiments, when the frame (250) accommodating the partial washing device (100) is coupled with a frame shaft extending in a second direction (e.g., left and right), and the frame shaft is connected to a frame motor, the partial washing device (100) can move along the first and second directions. In other words, the partial washing device (100) can move along the up, down, left, and right directions.

The fixed plate (260) and the frame (250) can be connected to each other through a connecting member.

For example, the frame (250) can be rotatably connected to the fixed plate (260) through a connecting member such as a hinge (255).

As another example, the frame (250) may be rotatably connected to the fixed plate (260) via a connecting member such as a hook.

In one embodiment, the fixed plate (260) and the frame (250) may each include a fixed portion (260a, 270a).

For example, when one side of the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) are connected via a hinge (255), a fixed part (260a, 270a) may be provided on the other side of the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260).

The fixed part (260a, 270a) may include a coupling projection and a projection insertion hole.

For example, the fixed plate (260) may include a joining projection as a first fixing portion (260a), and the frame (250) may include a joining projection insertion hole as a second fixing portion (270a). The user may join the joining projection provided on the fixed plate (260) to the joining projection insertion hole provided on the frame (250) to secure the frame (250) to the fixed plate (260). Conversely, it goes without saying that the fixed plate (260) may include a joining projection insertion hole as the first fixing portion (260a), and the frame (250) may include a joining projection as the second fixing portion (270a).

According to various embodiments, any configuration for fixing the frame (250) to the fixing plate (260) may correspond to the fixing member (260a, 270a).

For example, the fasteners (260a, 270a) may include bolts and nuts, hook and loop fasteners, and/or magnets.

The frame (250) can be coupled to the fixed plate (260) by electromagnetic force. For example, the fixed plate (260) can be made of a magnetic material, and the frame (250) can be made of an electromagnet. The partial washing device (100) operates the frame (250) as an electromagnet by applying current to the frame (250) based on the power being turned on, and accordingly, the frame (250) can be fixed to the fixed plate (260) by electromagnetic force. In this case, the fixed portions (260a, 270a) can be the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) itself (magnet).

According to various embodiments, the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) may only include the fixed portions (260a, 270a) without being connected to each other via a connecting member. In this case, the user may place clothing on the fixed plate (260), then place the frame (250) on the clothing and secure the frame (250) to the fixed plate (260) via the fixed portions (260a, 270a), thereby simultaneously connecting the fixed plate (260) and the frame (250) and securing the frame (250) to the fixed plate (260).

FIG. 11 illustrates a state in which clothing is not fixed to a partial washing kit according to one embodiment. FIG. 12 illustrates a state in which clothing is not fixed to a partial washing kit according to one embodiment from a different angle.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, when the frame (250) is not fixed to the fixed plate (260), an empty space (34) may be formed between the fixed plate (260) and the frame (250).

The frame (250) not being fixed to the fixed plate (260) may include that only one side of the frame (250) is connected to the fixed plate (260) by a connecting member, and the other side is not fixed to the frame (250).

The frame (250) not being fixed to the fixed plate (260) may include that the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) are not connected by a connecting member and that the frame (250) is not fixed to the fixed plate (260) by a fixing member (260a, 270a).

If the frame (250) is not fixed to the fixed plate (260), one side of the fixed plate (260) can be exposed to the outside, and the user can place at least a part of clothing on one side of the fixed plate (260).

Fig. 13 illustrates a state in which clothing is fixed to a partial washing kit according to one embodiment. Fig. 14 illustrates a state in which clothing is fixed to a partial washing kit according to one embodiment from a different angle.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, a user can secure clothing to a fixed plate (260) by placing at least a portion of clothing on one side of a fixed plate (260) and securing a frame (250) to the fixed plate (260).

When the frame (250) is fixed to the fixed plate (260), the empty space (34) between the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) becomes narrow, so that clothing can be fixed to the fixed plate (260). That is, clothing can be fixed to the empty space (34).

The empty space (34) between the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) can be communicated with the second frame hole (277). The partial washing device (100) can perform partial washing on clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) through the second frame hole (277).

FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a control block diagram of a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 15, the partial washing device (100) may include a user interface device (170), a sensor (108), a washing device (100a), a moving device (200), a communication unit (190), and/or a control unit (180). In one embodiment, the partial washing device (100) may include at least one damper (not shown) or valve (not shown) configured to allow or block the supply of water to the water spray unit (101) by opening and closing the first water supply duct (141), and to allow or block the supply of water to the detergent spray unit (102) by opening and closing the third water supply duct (143).

The user interface device (170) may include an input interface device (170a) and an output interface device (170b).

The partial washing device (100) can receive a user input for starting a washing cycle through an input interface device (170a). For example, in response to pressing an operation button of the input interface device (170a), an electrical signal for starting a washing cycle can be transmitted to the control unit (180).

At least one sensor (108) may include a camera and/or a light sensor.

Sensor data collected from at least one sensor (108) can be transmitted to a control unit (180).

At least one sensor (108) may be provided on the lower surface of the partial washing device (100). That is, when the frame is fixed to the fixed plate (260), at least one sensor (108) may have a shooting direction or detection direction directed toward the clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260).

The washing machine (100a) may include components for performing a washing process.

For example, the washing machine (100a) may include at least one damper (not shown) or valve (not shown) configured to allow or block the supply of water to the water spray unit (101) by opening and closing the water supply pump (140), the drain pump (150), the drive motor (160), the vibrator (103a), and/or the first water supply duct (141) and to allow or block the supply of water to the washing liquid spray unit (102) by opening and closing the third water supply duct (143).

The communication unit (190) can communicate with an external device (e.g., a clothing treatment device (20)) via wires and/or wirelessly.

The communication unit (190) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

The communication unit (190) can transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit (190) can establish communication with a clothing treatment device (20) and transmit and receive various data.

To this end, the communication unit (190) may support establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or wireless communication channel between external devices, and performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication unit (190) may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). A corresponding communication module among these communication modules may communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These different types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

A short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a Near Field Communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, a UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives a wireless signal with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

In one embodiment, the communication unit (190) may communicate with external devices such as the garment treatment device (20), the server, and/or the user device through a peripheral access point (AP). The access point (AP) may connect a local area network (LAN) to which the partial washing device (100), the garment treatment device (20), and/or the user device are connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The garment treatment device (20), the partial washing device (100), and/or the user device may be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN).

The moving device (200) may include a first motor (210) and/or a second motor (230). The partial washing device (100) may be connected to the moving device (200) by wire and/or wirelessly. That is, the moving device (200) may be a component of the partial washing device (100).

The moving device (200) can move the partial washing device (100). For example, the moving device (200) can move the partial washing device (100) in a first direction (e.g., up and down).

According to various embodiments, when the moving device (200) further includes a frame motor connected to a frame shaft that is coupled with the frame cover (280) and extends in a second direction (e.g., left-right direction), the moving device (200) can move the partial washing device (100) in a first direction (e.g., up-down direction) and a second direction (e.g., left-right direction).

The control unit (180) can control various components of the partial washing device (100) (e.g., output interface device (170b), washing device (100a), moving device (200), communication unit (190)). The control unit (180) can control various components of the partial washing device (100) to perform at least one cycle including water spraying, detergent spraying, vibration, suction, etc. according to a user input for starting a washing cycle. For example, the control unit (180) can control the washing device (100a) to spray water and/or detergent through the water spray unit (101) and/or the detergent spray unit (102), control the washing device (100a) to vibrate the vibration unit (103), control the washing device (100a) to rotate the roller unit (105), or control the washing device (100a) to provide suction force through the suction unit (104).

Controlling the washing machine (100a) to spray water through the water jet (101) may include operating the water supply pump (140), opening the first water supply duct (141), and controlling a damper or valve to close the third water supply duct (143).

Controlling the washing machine (100a) to spray detergent through the detergent spray unit (102) may include operating the water supply pump (140), controlling a damper or valve to close the first water supply duct (141), and opening the third water supply duct (143).

Controlling the washing machine (100a) to simultaneously spray water and detergent through the water spray unit (101) and detergent spray unit (102) may include operating the water supply pump (140) and controlling a damper or valve to open the first water supply duct (141) and the third water supply duct (143).

Controlling the washing machine (100a) to vibrate the vibrator (103) may include applying voltage to the vibrator (103a).

Controlling the washing machine (100a) to rotate the roller unit (105) may include operating the drive motor (160).

Controlling the washing device (100a) so that the suction unit (104) provides suction power may include operating the drain pump (150).

The control unit (180) may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit (180) may include at least one memory (182) storing data in the form of an algorithm and a program for controlling the operation of components in the partial washing device (100), and at least one processor (181) performing the operations described above and the operations to be described below using the data stored in the at least one memory (182). The memory (182) and the processor (181) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (181) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (182) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (182) and the processor (181) may be implemented as a single chip.

A partial washing device (100) according to one embodiment may not include some of the configurations described above, or may further include additional configurations.

For example, the partial washing device (100) may further include an actuator (not shown) that moves the first shaft support (271, 272) and the second shaft support (273, 274).

The first shaft support (271, 272) and the second shaft support (273, 274) can be moved toward the lower surface of the partial washing device (100) or toward the upper surface of the partial washing device (100) by an actuator.

The control unit (180) can move the partial washing device (100) toward the lower surface of the partial washing device (100) or toward the upper surface of the partial washing device (100) by controlling the actuator.

Accordingly, the partial washing device (100) can move in the lower or upper direction of the partial washing device (100).

Fig. 16 is a flowchart schematically illustrating the sequence of a washing operation of a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

The control unit (180) can start the washing cycle based on receiving a user input for starting the washing cycle through the input interface device (170a).

As another example, the control unit (180) can start the washing cycle based on receiving a command to start the washing cycle from the clothing treatment device (20) through the communication unit (190).

When the washing cycle starts, the partial washing device (100) can perform the washing cycle on clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260). Even if the clothes are fixed to the fixed plate (260), there may be some space between the clothes and the partial washing device (100) unless the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) are in complete contact.

Referring to FIG. 16, the control unit (180) can perform control to bring the partial washing device (100) into close contact with the clothing based on the start of the washing cycle (1010).

Performing a control to bring the partial washing device (100) into close contact with the clothing may include performing a control to move the partial washing device (100) toward the lower side of the partial washing device (100).

For example, the control unit (180) can control the actuator so that the first shaft support (271, 272) and the second shaft support (273, 274) supporting the partial washing device (100) move toward the lower side of the partial washing device (100).

As another example, when the frame (250) is coupled to the fixed plate (260) by electromagnetic force, the control unit (180) can perform control to increase the intensity of the current applied to the frame (250) so that the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) come into close contact, thereby bringing the partial washing device (100) into close contact with the clothes.

The control to ensure that the partial washing device (100) comes into close contact with the clothing is not limited to the above-described example and can be implemented according to various methods.

The control unit (180) can perform a washing process on clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) (1020).

The washing cycle may include a water spray cycle that sprays water onto clothes through a water spray unit (101), a detergent spray cycle that sprays detergent onto clothes through a detergent spray unit (102), a vibration cycle that provides vibration to clothes through a vibration unit (103), a rolling cycle that rotates a roller unit (105), and/or a suction cycle that sucks in contaminated water through a suction unit (104).

The control unit (180) can control the moving device (200) to place the water spray unit (101) on the target area and perform the water spraying operation.

The control unit (180) can control the moving device (200) to place the cleaning solution spray unit (102) on the target area and perform the cleaning solution spraying operation.

In one embodiment, the control unit (180) controls the moving device (200) to place the water spray unit (101) and the cleaning solution spray unit (102) at the target area and may perform the water spraying process and the cleaning solution spraying process simultaneously.

The control unit (180) can control the moving device (200) to place the vibrating unit (103) at the target area and perform the vibration operation.

The control unit (180) can control the moving device (200) to place the suction unit (104) at the target area and perform the suction operation.

In one embodiment, the control unit (180) may perform the suction stroke while performing the water spray stroke and/or the cleaning solution spray stroke.

The control unit (180) can control the moving device (200) to place the roller unit (105) on the target area and perform a rolling operation.

In one embodiment, the control unit (180) can perform a washing process on clothes by performing a water spraying process, a detergent spraying process, a vibration process, a rolling process, and/or a suction process on a target area in a predetermined order a predetermined number of times.

The partial washing device (100) can perform a washing cycle according to a preset algorithm.

The control unit (180) can terminate the washing cycle according to a preset algorithm (1030).

For example, the control unit (180) may end the washing cycle based on the passage of a predetermined time since the washing cycle began. As another example, the control unit (180) may end the washing cycle based on the detection of the disappearance of contamination from the target area through the sensor (108).

The control unit (180) can perform control to separate the partial washing device (100) from the clothes based on the completion of the washing cycle (1040).

Performing a control to cause the partial washing device (100) to be separated from the clothes may include performing a control to cause the partial washing device (100) to move toward the upper surface of the partial washing device (100).

For example, the control unit (180) can control the actuator so that the first shaft support (271, 272) and the second shaft support (273, 274) supporting the partial washing device (100) move toward the upper surface of the partial washing device (100).

As another example, when the frame (250) is coupled to the fixed plate (260) by electromagnetic force, the control unit (180) can perform control to separate the partial washing device (100) from the clothes by reducing the intensity of the current applied to the frame (250) or stopping the supply of the current applied to the frame (250).

According to the present disclosure, when the washing cycle is completed, the partial washing device (100) is separated from the clothing, thereby allowing air to flow to the target area where the partial washing is performed.

The control to separate the partial washing device (100) from the clothes is not limited to the above-described example and can be implemented according to various methods.

Some of the washing processes of the partial washing device (100) described above may be omitted, and the washing process of the partial washing device (100) may include additional processes.

For example, processes 1010 and 1040 may be omitted.

FIG. 17 illustrates an example of a partial washing device according to one embodiment of the present invention coming into contact with or moving away from clothing fixed to a fixed plate.

Referring to FIG. 17, the partial washing device (100) can be brought into close contact with clothing fixed to the fixed plate (260) by process 1010. Bringing the partial washing device (100) into close contact with clothing fixed to the fixed plate (260) may include bringing the fixed plate (260) and the frame (250) into close contact.

Since the partial washing device (100) is in close contact with the clothing fixed to the fixed plate (260), only the target area can be washed efficiently.

The partial washing device (100) may be separated from the clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) by process 1040. The separation of the partial washing device (100) from the clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) may include the separation of the fixed plate (260) and the frame (250).

By separating the partial washing device (100) from the clothing fixed to the fixed plate (260), a space can be secured through which air can flow so that the target area can be dried after the partial washing is completed.

Fig. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a clothing management method according to one embodiment.

A clothing care method according to one embodiment can be performed by a partial washing device (100) and a clothing treatment device (20).

After the user fixes the clothes to the partial washing kit (10), the user can place the partial washing kit (10) with the clothes fixed into the inside of the clothes treatment device (20).

For example, after a user fixes clothes to a partial washing kit (10), the user can input user input to start a washing cycle through an input interface device (170a) and place the partial washing kit (10) inside a clothes treatment device (20).

As another example, a user may secure clothing to a partial washing kit (10), place the partial washing kit (10) inside a clothing treatment device (20), and then input user input to start a washing cycle of the partial washing device (100) through a user interface device of the clothing treatment device (20).

Placing the partial washing kit (10) inside the garment treatment device (20) may include placing the garment with the partial washing kit (10) fixed inside the garment manager (20a) or hanging the garment with the partial washing kit (10) fixed on a hanger inside the garment manager (20a).

Placing the partial washing kit (10) inside the clothes treatment device (20) may include placing the clothes with the partial washing kit (10) fixed inside the dryer (20b), or hanging the clothes with the partial washing kit (10) fixed on a hanger and hanging it on the lifter (421) of the dryer (20b).

Placing the partial washing kit (10) inside the clothes treatment device (20) may include placing clothes with the partial washing kit (10) fixed inside the washing machine (20c), or hanging the clothes with the partial washing kit (10) fixed on a hanger and hanging them on the lifter (534) of the washing machine (20c).

According to a clothing management method according to one embodiment, a partial washing kit (10) in which clothing is fixed performs partial washing inside a clothing treatment device (20), and the clothing treatment device (20) additionally performs a clothing treatment process, thereby ensuring convenience for the user.

The partial washing device (100) can receive user input to start a washing cycle (2010).

For example, in response to a user selecting an operation button of an input interface device (170a), the control unit (180) can receive a user input to start a washing cycle.

The partial washing device (100) can start a washing cycle in response to receiving a user input to start a washing cycle (2020).

As described in FIG. 16, the partial washing device (100) can perform a washing cycle on clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260). The partial washing device (100) can perform a control to bring the partial washing device (100) into contact with the clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) based on the start of the washing cycle.

The partial washing device (100) can end the washing cycle according to a preset algorithm (2030).

The partial washing device (100) can perform control to separate the partial washing device (100) from the clothes fixed to the fixing plate (260) based on the completion of the washing cycle.

In one embodiment, the partial washing device (100) may transmit a termination signal to the garment treatment device (20) notifying the end of the washing cycle based on the completion of the washing cycle (2040).

The control unit (180) of the partial washing device (100) can control the communication unit (190) to transmit a termination signal to the clothing treatment device (20) notifying the end of the washing cycle based on the completion of the washing cycle.

At this time, the clothing treatment device (20) may be a clothing treatment device (20) in which communication with a partial washing device (100) has been established.

For example, the communication unit (190) of the partial washing device (100) can be paired with the clothes treatment device (20) through a Bluetooth communication module.

For this purpose, the garment treatment device (20) may also include a communication module (e.g., a Bluetooth communication module) capable of communicating with the partial washing device (100).

According to the present disclosure, the partial washing device (100) can transmit a termination signal to the clothes treatment device (20) based on the end of the washing cycle, thereby causing the clothes treatment device (20) that has received the termination signal to start a subsequent clothes treatment operation.

The garment treatment device (20) may perform a garment treatment process or provide an interface for starting a garment treatment process based on receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100) (2050).

In one embodiment, the garment treatment device (20) may include a garment manager (20a), and providing an interface for performing a garment treatment cycle or starting a garment treatment cycle based on the garment treatment device (20) receiving a stop signal from the partial washing device (100) may include providing an interface for performing a drying cycle or starting a drying cycle based on the garment manager (20a) receiving a stop signal from the partial washing device (100).

In one embodiment, the garment treatment device (20) may include a dryer (20b), and providing an interface for performing a garment treatment cycle or starting a garment treatment cycle based on the garment treatment device (20) receiving a stop signal from the partial washing device (100) may include providing an interface for performing a non-rotation drying cycle of the drum (420) or starting a non-rotation drying cycle of the drum (420) based on the dryer (20b) receiving a stop signal from the partial washing device (100).

In one embodiment, the garment treatment device (20) may include a washing machine (20c), and providing an interface for performing a garment treatment cycle or starting a garment treatment cycle based on the garment treatment device (20) receiving a stop signal from the partial washing device (100) may include providing an interface for performing a rinsing cycle and/or a spin-drying cycle or starting a rinsing cycle and/or a spin-drying cycle based on the washing machine (20c) receiving a stop signal from the partial washing device (100).

In one embodiment, the garment treatment device (20) may perform a garment treatment process or provide an interface for starting the garment treatment process depending on the location of the partial washing device (100).

For example, the garment treatment device (20) may perform a garment treatment process or provide an interface for starting the garment treatment process depending on whether the partial washing device (100) is located within the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the garment treatment device (20).

In one embodiment, the garment treatment device (20) can perform a garment treatment process based on receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100).

For example, the garment treatment device (20) may perform a garment treatment process in response to the partial washing device (100) being identified inside the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the garment treatment device (20) and receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100).

At this time, the clothing treatment process may be a clothing treatment process that does not cause a breakdown of the partial washing device (100). For example, the clothing treatment process may be a drying process that supplies hot air to the inside of the cabinet (310, 410, 501).

For example, a clothing treatment cycle that does not cause a breakdown of the partial washing device (100) may include a drying cycle in which the clothing manager (20a) supplies hot air through a heat exchanger to clothing accommodated inside a cabinet (310), a drying cycle in which the clothing manager (20a) supplies hot air through a machine room duct outlet (384), and/or a drying cycle in which the dryer (20b) supplies hot air to clothing accommodated inside a cabinet (310) (chamber (430a)) while the drum (420) is stopped.

In one embodiment, the garment treatment device (20) may perform a predetermined operation to determine a set value of a garment treatment cycle based on receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100). For example, the garment treatment device (20) may identify a load (amount of garments to be treated) within the garment treatment device (20) based on receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100). To this end, the garment treatment device (20) may further include a sensor for identifying a load within the garment treatment device (20).

The garment treatment device (20) can identify the load (amount of garments to be treated) within the garment treatment device (20) based on receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100), and determine the set value of the garment treatment cycle based on the load within the garment treatment device (20).

At this time, the setting values of the clothing treatment cycle may include the setting values of the drying cycle, such as the operation time of the drying cycle, the hot air temperature, and/or the setting values of the rinsing cycle and the spin-drying cycle.

In one embodiment, the garment treatment device (20) can identify the location of the partial washing device (100).

Identifying the location of the partial washing device (100) may include identifying whether the partial washing device (100) is within a cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the garment treatment device (20).

The garment treatment device (20) may include a sensor to identify the location of the partial washing device (100).

For example, the communication unit (190) of the partial washing device (100) may include a communication module capable of transmitting and receiving wireless signals such as a LF (Low Frequency) signal, an RF (Radio Frequency) signal, and/or a UWB (Ultra-Wide Band) signal, and the clothes treatment device (20) may include an antenna that transmits and receives a LF (Low Frequency) signal, an RF (Radio Frequency) signal, and/or a UWB (Ultra-Wide Band) signal as a sensor for identifying the location of the partial washing device (100).

When the partial washing device (100) outputs a wireless signal such as a LF (Low Frequency) signal, an RF (Radio Frequency) signal, and/or a UWB (Ultra-Wide Band) signal in response to the power being turned on, the antenna of the clothes treatment device (20) can receive the wireless signal output from the partial washing device (100) to identify whether the partial washing device (100) is inside the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the clothes treatment device (20) or outside the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the clothes treatment device (20).

According to various embodiments, any sensor that can identify whether the partial washing device (100) is inside the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the garment treatment device (20) or outside the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the garment treatment device (20) can be employed without limitation as a sensor for identifying the location of the partial washing device (100).

In one embodiment, the garment treatment device (20) may provide an interface for starting a garment treatment cycle based on receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100).

Providing an interface for the garment treatment device (20) to initiate a garment treatment process may include the garment treatment device (20) providing an interface through a user interface device of the garment treatment device (20), and/or the garment treatment device (20) transmitting a signal to a user device through a communication module to provide an interface for initiating a garment treatment process.

The interface for starting the garment treatment process may include a visual indicator for confirming the intention to start the garment treatment process. In response to the selection of the visual indicator for confirming the intention to start the garment treatment process, the garment treatment device (20) may start the garment treatment process.

For example, a clothes manager (20a) may provide an interface for starting a drying cycle. As another example, a dryer (20b) may provide an interface for starting a drying cycle without rotation of the drum (420). As another example, a washing machine (20c) may provide an interface for starting a rinsing and spin-drying cycle.

At this time, the setting value of the clothing treatment process can be preset by the clothing treatment device (20) without user operation. The setting value of the clothing treatment process can include, for example, the type of drying process, the operation time of the drying process, the temperature of the hot air supplied inside the cabinet (310, 410) during the drying process, the setting value of the rinsing and dehydration processes, etc.

In one embodiment, the garment treatment device (20) may provide an interface to initiate a garment treatment cycle based on the partial washing device (100) receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100) while the partial washing device (100) is unidentified within the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the garment treatment device (20).

According to the present disclosure, after a user performs a partial wash through a partial washing device (100) outside of a cabinet (310, 410, 501), additional clothes treatment can be performed by placing clothes on which the partial wash has been performed in a clothes treatment device (20) and simply selecting a visual indicator confirming the intention to start the clothes treatment process.

In one embodiment, the garment treatment device (20) may provide an interface for starting a garment treatment cycle based on receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100) when the partial washing device (100) is expected to perform a garment treatment cycle that may cause a malfunction of the partial washing device (100) even though the partial washing device (100) is identified inside the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the garment treatment device (20).

If it is anticipated that a garment treatment cycle that may cause a malfunction of the partial washing device (100) will be performed, the interface for initiating the garment treatment cycle may include a visual indicator that prompts the partial washing device (100) to be taken out from inside the cabinet (310, 410, 501).

In addition, when it is expected that a clothes treatment process that may cause a breakdown of the partial washing device (100) will be performed, the clothes treatment device (20) may output a visual indicator and/or a warning indicator that induces taking the partial washing device (100) out from the cabinet (310, 410, 501) without starting the clothes treatment process, as long as the partial washing device (100) is identified inside the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the clothes treatment device (20), even if a visual indicator confirming the intention to start the clothes treatment process is selected.

According to the present disclosure, when a clothes treatment process that causes a breakdown of the partial washing device (100) is required, the user can be induced to remove the partial washing device (100) from the cabinet (310, 410, 501).

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a clothing management method according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 19, the garment treatment device (20) can receive user input to start a washing cycle of the partial washing device (100) through the user interface device of the garment treatment device (20) (3010).

The garment treatment device (20) can provide a partial washing interlocking course. The partial washing interlocking course can mean a predetermined course utilizing the partial washing device (100). The garment treatment device (20) can receive a user input to start the partial washing interlocking course.

That is, the user input for starting the washing cycle of the partial washing device (100) may include the user input for starting the partial washing linked course.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example of an interface for selecting a partial wash cycle provided by a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 20, one can see an example of an interface for selecting a partial washing course provided by a garment treatment device (20).

The garment treatment device (20) can provide a plurality of partial washing linked courses.

The partial washing linked course may include a course in which additional clothing treatment is performed after partial washing is performed through a partial washing device (100).

The partial washing linked course includes a first linked course in which partial washing is performed through a partial washing device (100) and then the clothing treatment device (20) performs a first drying cycle, a second linked course in which partial washing is performed through a partial washing device (100) and then the clothing treatment device (20) performs a second drying cycle, a third linked course in which partial washing is performed through a partial washing device (100) and then the clothing treatment device (20) performs a first drying cycle and a second drying cycle, a fourth linked course in which partial washing is performed through a partial washing device (100) and then the clothing treatment device (20) performs a steam cycle, a fifth linked course in which partial washing is performed through a partial washing device (100) and then the clothing treatment device (20) performs a steam cycle and a first drying cycle, a sixth linked course in which partial washing is performed through a partial washing device (100) and then the clothing treatment device (20) performs a steam cycle and a second drying cycle, and/or After partial washing is performed through the partial washing device (100), the clothing treatment device (20) may include a seventh linked course, such as performing a steam cycle, a first drying cycle, and a second drying cycle.

The first drying cycle may include a cycle in which the clothing manager (20a) supplies hot air that has passed through a heat exchanger to clothing stored inside the cabinet (310).

The second drying cycle may include a cycle in which the clothing manager (20a) supplies air to the clothing stored inside the cabinet (310) through the outlet (343).

The steam administration may include an administration in which the garment manager (20a) supplies steam to garments stored inside the cabinet (310).

In one embodiment, when the garment manager (20a) selects a linked course including a steam cycle, the garment manager (20a) can perform the steam cycle and the drying cycle in response to receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100).

In one embodiment, when the garment manager (20a) selects a linked course including a steam cycle, the garment manager (20a) may perform the steam cycle before receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100) after transmitting a start command for the washing cycle to the partial washing device (100). That is, the garment manager (20a) may perform the steam cycle during the washing cycle of the partial washing device (100).

As another example, the first drying cycle may include a cycle in which the dryer (20b) supplies hot air to clothes accommodated inside the cabinet (310) (chamber (430a)) while the drum (420) is stopped.

In one embodiment, the interface for selecting a partial wash cycle provided by the garment treatment device (20) may include a visual indicator that prompts the placement of a partial wash kit (10) with garments secured thereto within the garment treatment device (20).

The user can start the partial washing cycle after placing the partial washing kit (10) inside the clothes treatment device (20).

In one embodiment, when the garment treatment device (20) receives a user input to start a partial wash cycle, it may perform different actions depending on the location of the partial wash device (100).

The garment handling device (20) may identify the location of the partial washing device (100) in response to receiving a user input to initiate a partial washing cycle. Identifying the location of the partial washing device (100) may include determining whether the partial washing device (100) is identified within a cabinet (310, 410, 501).

For example, the garment handling device (20) may provide feedback indicating that the partial washing device (100) is not detected within the cabinet (3025) based on the partial washing device (100) not being identified within the cabinet (310, 410, 501) (NO of 3020).

Feedback indicating that the partial washing device (100) is not detected within the cabinet (310, 410, 501) may include a visual indicator and/or an audible indicator.

The garment handling device (20) may include a display and/or speaker as a user interface device (170).

FIG. 21 illustrates an example of feedback provided by a garment handling device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 21, the garment treatment device (20) may output a visual indicator indicating that the partial washing device (100) is not detected within the cabinet. The visual indicator may include a phrase, text, a shape, and/or an animation indicating that the partial washing device (100) is not detected within the cabinet (310, 410, 501).

In one embodiment, the feedback indicating that the partial wash device (100) is not detected within the cabinet (310, 410, 501) may include a visual indicator confirming the intention to perform the partial wash outside the cabinet (310, 410, 501).

A user can perform partial washing outside of a cabinet (310, 410, 501) by selecting a UI element ('Example' in FIG. 21) that indicates a desire to perform partial washing outside of a cabinet (310, 410, 501). The clothing treatment device (20) can transmit a washing cycle start command to the partial washing device (100) based on the selection of a UI element ('Example' in FIG. 21) that indicates a desire to perform partial washing outside of a cabinet (310, 410, 501).

After the partial washing is performed outside the cabinet (310, 410, 501), processes 2020, 2030, 2040 and 2050 described in Fig. 18 can be performed. At this time, in the case of process 2050, the garment treatment device (20) can provide an interface for starting the garment treatment process.

When the user selects the UI element ('No' in FIG. 21) to perform partial washing inside the cabinet (310, 410, 501), the garment treatment device (20) can again provide an interface for selecting a partial washing linked course provided by the garment treatment device (20).

Referring again to FIG. 19, the garment treatment device (20) may transmit a command to start a washing cycle to the partial washing device (100) based on the identification of the partial washing device (100) within the cabinet (310, 410, 501) (example of 3020) (3030).

The partial washing device (100) can start a washing cycle in response to receiving a command to start a washing cycle from the clothes treatment device (20) (3040).

As described in FIG. 16, the partial washing device (100) can perform a washing cycle on clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260). The partial washing device (100) can perform a control to bring the partial washing device (100) into contact with the clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) based on the start of the washing cycle.

The partial washing device (100) can end the washing cycle according to a preset algorithm (3050).

The partial washing device (100) can perform control to separate the partial washing device (100) from the clothes fixed to the fixing plate (260) based on the completion of the washing cycle.

In one embodiment, the partial washing device (100) may transmit a termination signal to the garment treatment device (20) notifying the end of the washing cycle based on the completion of the washing cycle (3060).

The control unit (180) of the partial washing device (100) can control the communication unit (190) to transmit a termination signal to the clothing treatment device (20) notifying the end of the washing cycle based on the completion of the washing cycle.

At this time, the clothing treatment device (20) may be a clothing treatment device (20) that has transmitted a command to start a washing cycle to the partial washing device (100).

According to the present disclosure, the partial washing device (100) can transmit a termination signal to the clothes treatment device (20) based on the end of the washing cycle, thereby causing the clothes treatment device (20) that has received the termination signal to start a subsequent clothes treatment operation.

The garment treatment device (20) may perform a garment treatment process or provide an interface for starting a garment treatment process based on receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100) (3070).

The description of process 2050 of Fig. 18 may be applied to process 3070.

However, since process 3070 is a process after clothes are identified in the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the clothes treatment device (20), if the clothes treatment device (20) is scheduled to perform a clothes treatment process that does not cause a breakdown of the partial washing device (100), the clothes treatment device can perform the clothes treatment process based on receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100).

However, depending on the user's settings, the garment treatment device (20) may provide an interface for starting the garment treatment process instead of immediately performing the garment treatment process based on receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100), even if the garment treatment process that does not cause a breakdown of the partial washing device (100) is scheduled to be performed. Accordingly, the garment treatment device (20) may confirm the user's intention to start the garment treatment process once more.

Conversely, if the garment treatment device (20) is scheduled to perform a garment treatment process that will cause a breakdown of the partial washing device (100), the garment treatment device (20) may provide an interface for starting the garment treatment process based on receiving a termination signal from the partial washing device (100).

FIG. 22a illustrates an example of an interface for performing a garment treatment process provided by a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 22a, the interface for starting a garment treatment process may include a visual indicator confirming the intention to start the garment treatment process.

A visual indicator confirming the intent to start a garment treatment process may include a UI element indicating that the garment treatment process is to be started and/or a UI element indicating that the garment treatment process is to be rejected.

The garment processing device (20) can start the garment processing operation in response to the selection of a UI element that wants to start the garment processing operation. Conversely, if a UI element that wants to reject the start of the garment processing operation is selected, the garment processing device (20) can end additional procedures without proceeding with the garment processing operation.

FIG. 22b illustrates another example of an interface for performing a garment treatment process provided by a garment treatment device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 22b, the interface for starting a garment treatment process may include a visual indicator confirming the intention to start the garment treatment process.

A visual indicator confirming the intent to start a garment treatment process may include a UI element indicating that the garment treatment process is to be started and/or a UI element indicating that the garment treatment process is to be rejected.

In a case where a clothes treatment process that causes a breakdown of the partial washing device (100) is scheduled to be performed, the visual indicator confirming the intention to start the clothes treatment process may further include a visual indicator guiding that the partial washing device (100) must be removed from within the cabinet (310, 410, 501) when a UI element for starting the clothes treatment process is selected.

If the garment treatment device (20) is scheduled to perform a garment treatment process that causes a breakdown of the partial washing device (100), the garment treatment device (20) can start the garment treatment process in response to the selection of a UI element that is to start the garment treatment process while the partial washing device (100) is not identified within the cabinet (310, 410, 501).

If the garment treatment device (20) is scheduled to perform a garment treatment process that will cause a breakdown of the partial washing device (100), the partial washing device (100) may output a visual indicator and/or a warning indicator that induces the partial washing device (100) to be taken out from inside the cabinet (310, 410, 501) in response to a UI element that is selected to start the garment treatment process while the partial washing device (100) is identified within the cabinet (310, 410, 501).

According to the present disclosure, a user can perform a partial washing of clothes with a partial washing device (100) and then perform an additional clothing treatment process with a clothing treatment device (20) without a separate operation.

According to the present disclosure, after partial washing of clothing, additional processes such as drying and wrinkle care are performed, thereby efficiently processing the clothing.

A method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a partial washing device (100) transmitting a termination signal to a garment treatment device (20) notifying the end of a washing cycle based on the completion of a washing cycle in which garments are washed by the partial washing device (100) by the partial washing device (100), wherein the partial washing device (100) is positionable inside the garment treatment device (20) to perform the washing cycle on garments located inside the garment treatment device (20) and positionable outside the garment treatment device (20) to perform the washing cycle on garments located outside the garment treatment device (20); and the garment treatment device (20) performing the garment treatment cycle based on the termination signal being transmitted by the partial washing device (100).

A method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a partial washing device (100) transmitting a termination signal to a garment treatment device (20) notifying the end of a washing cycle based on the completion of a washing cycle in which garments are washed by the partial washing device (100) by the partial washing device (100), wherein the partial washing device (100) is positionable inside the garment treatment device (20) to perform the washing cycle on garments located inside the garment treatment device (20) and positionable outside the garment treatment device (20) to perform the washing cycle on garments located outside the garment treatment device (20); and the garment treatment device (20) providing an interface for starting the garment treatment cycle based on the termination signal being transmitted by the partial washing device (100).

A method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a partial washing device (100) transmitting a termination signal to a garment treatment device (20) notifying the end of a washing cycle based on the completion of a washing cycle in which garments are washed by the partial washing device (100) by the partial washing device (100), wherein the partial washing device (100) is positionable inside the garment treatment device (20) to perform the washing cycle on garments located inside the garment treatment device (20) and positionable outside the garment treatment device (20) to perform the washing cycle on garments located outside the garment treatment device (20); and the garment treatment device (20) performing a garment treatment cycle or providing an interface for starting the garment treatment cycle based on the termination signal being transmitted by the partial washing device (100).

The performing of the above provides the interface, and the method may further include: the garment treatment device (20) transmitting a command to start the washing cycle based on receiving a user input for starting the washing cycle by the interface;

The method may further include the partial washing device (100) starting the washing cycle based on the start command being transmitted by the clothing treatment device (20).

The method may further include: receiving a user input for starting the washing cycle; and the partial washing device (100) starting the washing cycle based on receiving the user input for starting the washing cycle.

The above method may further include: the partial washing device (100) performs the washing process, the clothes are fixed to the fixed plate (260), and performing the washing process includes: the partial washing device (100) moves in close contact with the clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) and performs the washing process.

The above method may further include: the partial washing device (100) performs the washing cycle, the clothes are fixed to the fixing plate (260), and performing the washing cycle includes: the partial washing device (100) moving to separate from the clothes based on the completion of the washing cycle.

The above clothing management method may further include the clothing treatment device (20) identifying the location of the partial washing device (100).

The performing of the above may include performing the clothing treatment operation or providing the interface based on the position of the partial washing device (100).

The above performing may include performing the garment treatment process based on the identification of the partial washing device (100) within the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the garment treatment device (20).

The performing of the above may include performing the provision of the interface based on the identification of the partial washing device (100) outside the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the garment treatment device (20).

The method may further include: receiving a user input for starting a predetermined course of the garment treatment device (20); and identifying a location of the partial washing device (100) based on the garment treatment device (20) receiving the user input for starting the predetermined course.

The method may further include providing feedback to the garment treatment device (20) indicating that the partial washing device (100) is not detected within the cabinet (310, 410, 501) based on the determination that the location of the partial washing device (100) is outside the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the garment treatment device (20).

The method may further include the garment treatment device (20) transmitting a start command to start the washing cycle based on the identification of the location of the partial washing device (100) within the cabinet (310, 410, 501) of the garment treatment device (20).

The above method may further include: the garment treatment device (20) identifying the amount of clothing to be treated by the garment treatment device (20) based on the termination signal transmitted by the partial washing device (100), and determining the set value of the garment treatment process based on the identified amount of clothing.

The method may further include performing a steam process during the washing cycle of the partial washing device (100) while the partial washing device (100) and the clothes are inside the garment treatment device (20).

The above clothing treatment device (20) includes at least one of a clothing manager (20a), a washing machine (20c), or a dryer (20b), and the clothing treatment process may include at least one of a drying process, a rinsing process, or a dehydration process.

The above-described clothing treatment device (20) is a clothing manager (20a), and the provision of an interface for starting the clothing treatment process or the clothing treatment process by the clothing manager (20a) based on the fact that the end signal is transmitted by the partial washing device (100) may include the fact that the clothing manager (20a) performs the drying process or the provision of an interface for starting the drying process based on the fact that the end signal is transmitted by the partial washing device (100).

The above-described clothing treatment device (20) is a dryer (20b), and the provision of an interface for starting the clothing treatment process or the clothing treatment process by the clothing treatment device (20) based on the fact that the end signal is transmitted by the partial washing device (100) may include the fact that the dryer (20b) performs a non-rotation drying process of the drum (420) or the provision of an interface for starting a non-rotation drying process of the drum (420) based on the fact that the end signal is transmitted by the partial washing device (100).

The above-described clothing treatment device (20) is a washing machine (20c), and the provision of an interface for starting the clothing treatment process or the clothing treatment process by the clothing treatment device (20) based on the termination signal transmitted by the partial washing device (100) may include the washing machine (20c) providing an interface for starting the rinsing process and the spin-drying process based on the termination signal transmitted by the partial washing device (100).

A partial washing kit (10) according to one embodiment comprises: a fixed plate (260); a frame (250) connectable with the fixed plate (260); a partial washing device (100) connected to the frame (250); and a fixing member (260a, 270a) configured to fix the frame (250) to the fixed plate (260); wherein the partial washing device (100) comprises: a moving device that moves the partial washing device (100); a communication member (190) configured to communicate with a clothes treatment device (20); and a control unit (180) for controlling the partial washing device (100) to perform the washing process on clothes fixed to the fixing plate (260) in response to receiving a command to start the washing process from the clothes treatment device (20) through the communication unit (190), and for controlling the communication unit (190) to transmit a termination signal notifying the end of the washing process to the clothes treatment device (20) based on the completion of the washing process.

The above control unit (180) can perform control to bring the partial washing device (100) into close contact with the clothing fixed to the fixing plate (260) based on the start of the washing cycle.

The above control unit (180) can perform control to separate the partial washing device (100) from the clothes fixed to the fixing plate (260) based on the completion of the washing cycle.

The above partial washing device (100) may further include an input interface device (170a) that receives a user input for starting the washing cycle.

Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program codes, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include ROM (read only memory), RAM (random access memory), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

In addition, the computer-readable recording medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term 'non-transitory storage medium' means a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently in the storage medium and cases where data is stored temporarily. For example, the 'non-transitory storage medium' may include a buffer where data is temporarily stored.

According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a commodity. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable recording medium (e.g., a compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play StoreTM) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a part of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable recording medium, such as a memory of a manufacturer's server, a server of an application store, or an intermediary server.

The above has been illustrated and described with respect to specific embodiments. However, it is not limited to the above embodiments, and those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains can make various modifications and implementations without departing from the gist of the technical idea of the invention described in the claims below.

Claims (15)

A partial washing device transmits a termination signal notifying the end of a washing cycle based on the completion of a washing cycle in which clothes are washed by the partial washing device, wherein the partial washing device is positioned inside the clothes treatment device to perform the washing cycle on clothes located inside the clothes treatment device, and is positioned outside the clothes treatment device to perform the washing cycle on clothes located outside the clothes treatment device; A method comprising: providing an interface for starting a garment treatment process or a garment treatment process, based on the termination signal being transmitted by the partial washing device; In the first paragraph, The above performing provides the above interface, The above method, The garment treatment device transmits a command to start the washing cycle based on receiving a user input for starting the washing cycle through the interface; A method further comprising: the partial washing device starting the washing cycle based on the start command being transmitted by the garment treatment device; In the first paragraph, Receive user input to start the above washing cycle; A method further comprising: the partial washing device starting the washing cycle based on receiving the user input for starting the washing cycle. In the first paragraph, The above partial washing device performs the above washing cycle, wherein the clothes are fixed to the fixing plate, and performing the above washing cycle is: The above partial washing device moves in close contact with the clothes fixed to the above fixed plate and performs the washing cycle; A method comprising: moving the partial washing device to separate from the clothing based on the completion of the washing cycle; In the first paragraph, The garment treatment device further comprises: identifying the location of the partial washing device; A method comprising: performing the above-described operation; providing the interface or performing the garment treatment operation based on the position of the partial washing device. In paragraph 5, A method comprising: performing said garment treatment process based on the identification of said partial washing device within the cabinet of said garment treatment device; In paragraph 5, A method comprising: performing the providing of the interface based on the identification of the partial washing device outside the cabinet of the garment treatment device; In the first paragraph, Receiving user input to initiate a predetermined course of the garment treatment device; A method further comprising: identifying a location of said partial washing device based on said receiving of said user input for initiating said predetermined course of said garment handling device; In Article 8, A method further comprising: providing feedback to the garment handling device indicating that the partial washing device is not detected within the cabinet based on the location of the partial washing device being determined to be outside the cabinet of the garment handling device; In Article 8, A method further comprising: the garment handling device transmitting a start command to start the washing cycle based on the location of the partial washing device being identified within the cabinet of the garment handling device; In the first paragraph, The garment treatment device identifies the amount of garments to be treated by the garment treatment device based on the termination signal transmitted by the partial washing device; A method further comprising: determining a setting value of the clothing processing operation based on the amount of the identified clothing. In the first paragraph, A method further comprising: said garment treatment device performing a steam cycle during said washing cycle of said partial washing device while said partial washing device and said garment are inside said garment treatment device; In the first paragraph, The above garment treatment device comprises at least one of a garment manager, a washing machine, or a dryer, A method wherein the above clothing treatment process includes at least one of a drying process, a rinsing process, or a dehydration process. In Article 13, The above clothing treatment device is the above clothing manager, The above garment treatment device performs a garment treatment process or provides an interface for starting the garment treatment process based on the termination signal transmitted by the partial washing device. A method comprising: providing an interface for starting the drying cycle or the drying cycle, based on the termination signal transmitted by the partial washing device; In Article 13, The above clothing treatment device is a dryer, The above garment treatment device performs a garment treatment process or provides an interface for starting the garment treatment process based on the termination signal transmitted by the partial washing device. A method comprising: providing an interface for starting a non-rotating drying cycle of the drum or a non-rotating drying cycle of the drum based on the end signal being transmitted by the partial washing device;

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