APPARATUS FOR TREATING LAUNDRY

Abstract

 The present disclosure provides an apparatus for treating laundry. The apparatus for treating laundry according to one embodiment comprises: a first treatment device that is provided with a first front panel on the front side, includes first side panels on both sides in the lateral direction, and has a first drum for storing laundry therein; and a second treatment device that is disposed above the first treatment device, includes second side panels on both sides in the lateral direction, and has a second drum for storing laundry therein. The first treatment device further includes: an upper frame that is located behind the first front panel and fastened to the first side panels and the second side panels; and brackets that are coupled to the first side panels and include protruding parts that protrude further to the front than the first side panels. The upper frame has coupling holes corresponding to the protruding parts and formed such that the protruding parts hang therefrom..

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a laundry treatment apparatus.

[Background Art]

[0002] A laundry treatment apparatus is an apparatus for placing laundry, such as clothing or bedding, inside a drum and performing necessary treatment on the laundry, such as decontaminating the laundry or drying the laundry.

[0003] In the case where the laundry treatment apparatus is arranged to decontaminate the laundry, the laundry treatment apparatus may perform operations such as washing, rinsing, dehydrating, and drying. The laundry treatment apparatus may include a cabinet defining an exterior, a tub accommodated in the cabinet, a drum rotatably mounted in the tub to receive laundry loaded thereinto, and a detergent supply provided to supply detergent to the drum. When the drum is rotated by the motor with wash water supplied to the laundry accommodated in the drum, the friction that occurs between the laundry and the drum and wash water may remove dirt from the laundry.

[0004] In the case where the laundry treatment apparatus is arranged to dry the laundry, the laundry treatment apparatus may provide dry air to the laundry to remove moisture from the laundry. The laundry treatment apparatus may include a cabinet, a drum rotatably arranged inside the cabinet, and heating means configured to heat or dry the air provided to the laundry. As dry air is supplied to the laundry accommodated in the drum, moisture present in the laundry may be evaporated and removed by the dry air, and the laundry may be dehydrated.

[0005] Korean Patent Application Publication No. KR 10-2021-0112086 A1 (prior art 1) discloses a laundry treatment apparatus including a plurality of treatment units. The laundry treatment apparatus includes a dryer on an upper side and a washing machine on a lower side. Prior art 1 discloses an upper frame arranged on an upper portion of the washing machine to improve structural stability and enhance rigidity. The upper frame is formed in a plate shape. The upper frame is coupled to the upper portion of the washing machine and the lower portion of the dryer. By configuring a portion of the upper frame to be sandwiched between the upper portion of the washing machine and the lower portion of the dryer, the upper frame is easily joined during assembly. According to the conventional configuration, separating the upper frame in providing after-sales service requires the dryer to be removed, which is inconvenient.

[Disclosure]

[Technical Problem]

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a laundry treatment apparatus having treatment apparatuses stacked in upper and lower layers that is capable of improving the convenience of assembly in the process of manufacturing the laundry treatment apparatus, and eliminating unnecessary disassembly operations in the disassembly process for after-sales service.

[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a laundry treatment apparatus having treatment apparatuses stacked in upper and lower layers that is capable of improving the convenience of assembly in the process of manufacturing the laundry treatment apparatus, while improving the quality of after-sales service.

[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a laundry treatment apparatus that has a protruding portion and a coupling hole formed to accommodate the protruding portion for temporary coupling of a plurality of elements and is capable of securing a width of the coupling hole in screw-coupling the plurality of elements around the temporarily coupling portions, thereby facilitating an operation with the coupling hole and improving the convenience of operation in the screw-coupling.

[0009] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the objects that could be achieved with the embodiment are not limited to what has been particularly described hereinabove and the above and other objects that the embodiment could achieve will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description.

[Technical Solution]

[0010] In one aspect of the present disclosure, provided herein is a laundry treatment apparatus including a first treatment apparatus having a first cabinet, and a first drum arranged inside the first cabinet to accommodate laundry, and a second treatment apparatus disposed on top of the first treatment apparatus, the second treatment apparatus having a second cabinet and a second drum arranged inside the second cabinet to accommodate laundry.

[0011] The first treatment apparatus includes an upper frame fastened to a pair of first side panels constituting the first cabinet and a pair of second side panels constituting the second cabinet, and a bracket removably coupled to the upper frame and supported upward by the first cabinet.

[0012] A front surface of the first cabinet may include a first front panel, and the upper frame may be positioned at a rear of the first front panel. The bracket may be coupled to and supported by the first side panels.

[0013] Each of the first side panel may include a side portion defining a side surface of the first cabinet, and a top bent portion extending inward from a top of the side portion, wherein the bracket may be coupled to and supported by the top bent portion.

[0014] A top surface of the first cabinet may include a first top panel, and the first cabinet may include a reinforcement frame positioned below the first top panel and extending along a front-to-back direction. The bracket may be coupled to and supported by the reinforcement frame.

[0015] The reinforcement frame may be arranged on a top surface of the pair of first side panels.

[0016] Each of the first side panel may include a side portion defining a side surface of the first cabinet, and a top bent portion extending inward from a top of the side portion. The reinforcement frame may be positioned at the top bent portion.

[0017] A top surface of the first cabinet may include a first top panel, and the bracket may be coupled to and supported by the first top panel.

[0018] Each of the first side panel may include a side portion defining a side surface of the first cabinet, and a side front end bent portion extending inward from a front end of the side portion. The upper frame may have a first restraining portion formed thereon, and the side front end bent portion may have a second restraining portion formed thereon, the second restraining portion engaging with the first restraining portion to restrict vertical movement of the upper frame.

[0019] The bracket may include a first portion supported by the first cabinet, and a second portion removably coupled to the upper frame. The second portion and the upper frame may be coupled by a fastening member.

[0020] The second portion may be formed by bending from an end of the first portion. The second portion may be formed by bending perpendicularly from the first portion.

[0021] The bracket further may include a protruding portion protruding forward from an end of the second portion. The upper frame may include a coupling hole formed to receive the protruding portion inserted thereinto.

[0022] The bracket may be formed of a single plate-shaped material by bending the first portion and the protruding portion in different directions.

[0023] The coupling hole may include an insertion opening having an area corresponding to the protruding portion, and a first extension opening extending from a portion of a bottom surface of the insertion opening, the first extension extending downward along a direction opposite to a direction of rotation of the fastening member according to a fastening operation.

[0024] The coupling hole may include a second extension opening extending from a portion of a top surface of the insertion opening, the second extension opening extending upward on an opposite side to the first extension opening.

[0025] The coupling hole may further include a first extension opening extending from a portion of a bottom surface of the insertion opening, the first extension extending downward along a direction opposite to a direction of rotation of the fastening member according to a fastening operation, and a second extension opening extending from a portion of a top surface of the insertion opening, the second extension opening extending upward on an opposite side to the first extension opening.

[0026] The first extension opening and the second extension opening may have portions overlapping each other along a vertical direction.

[0027] A vertical length of the coupling hole may be greater than a vertical length of the protruding portion, wherein a top surface of the coupling hole may include a first top surface portion arranged on a side biased in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the fastening member according to the fastening operation, the first top surface portion being closer to the protruding portion than the other portion of the top surface, wherein a bottom surface of the coupling hole may include a second bottom surface portion arranged on a side opposite to the first top surface portion, the second bottom surface portion being closer to the protruding portion than the other portion of the bottom surface.

[0028] The second treatment apparatus may include a base disposed on a lower portion of the second treatment apparatus, wherein at least a portion of the upper frame is positioned to overlap a front surface of the base on a rear side thereof, wherein a front surface of the base has a coupling boss formed thereon, wherein the upper frame has a base fastening hole formed at a position corresponding to the coupling boss. A fastening member may be arranged through the base fastening hole and coupled to the coupling boss.

[0029] The second treatment apparatus may further include a second front panel positioned on a front side, and the laundry treatment apparatus may further include a control panel disposed between the first front panel and the second front panel and connected to the first treatment apparatus and the second treatment apparatus.

[0030] The second treatment apparatus may further include a lower frame, at least a portion of the a lower frame being positioned between the control panel and the base, and the fastening member may be spaced apart from the lower frame and coupled to the base.

[0031] In another aspect of the present disclosure, provided herein is a method of manufacturing a frame part of a laundry treatment apparatus. The method include molding a frame part such that a plurality of brackets is formed in a region for formation of a detergent drawer opening, bending a set portion of the plurality of brackets, and separating the plurality of brackets from the frame part.

[Advantageous Effects]

[0032] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, assembly convenience may be improved in the manufacturing process of coupling an upper frame and a first treatment apparatus.

[0033] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, , assembly convenience may be improved in the manufacturing process of coupling an upper frame and a first treatment apparatus, unnecessary disassembly operations may be eliminated in the disassembly process for after-sales service, and service quality may be improved.

[0034] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, in forming a protruding portion and a coupling hole in which the protruding portion is accommodated for temporary coupling of a plurality of elements, and screw-coupling the plurality of elements around the temporary coupling portion, the width of the coupling hole may be secured, thereby facilitating an operation with the coupling hole and improving convenience of operation in the screw-coupling.

[0035] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other effects not mentioned will be apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art from the description and accompanying drawings.

[Description of Drawings]

[0036] 

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a laundry treatment apparatus of one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG.2 is an exploded view of the laundry treatment apparatus of the embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a base provided for the laundry treatment apparatus according to the one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of portion A in FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a view illustrating coupling between an upper frame and a first cabinet according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a bracket according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged rear perspective view of portion B in FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a view corresponding to FIG. 7 with the upper frame removed.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged front perspective view of portion B in FIG. 5.

FIG. 10 is a front view of an upper frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of portion C in FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a view illustrating a coupling hole formed in the upper frame with the bracket of FIG. 11 removed.

FIG. 13 is a partial enlarged front view illustrating coupling between an upper frame and a lower frame of a laundry treatment apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a view illustrating a method according to the first embodiment of connecting the upper frame to the first cabinet.

FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view illustrating coupling the upper frame to the first cabinet according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a view illustrating a method according to the second embodiment of connecting the upper frame to the first cabinet.

FIG.17 a view for a coupling between the upper frame and the first cabinet of a third embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a view illustrating a method according to a fourth embodiment of connecting the upper frame to the first cabinet.

FIG. 19 is a view illustrating a method of manufacturing an upper frame and a bracket according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[Best Mode]

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art

[0038] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure can 1 be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted in order to clearly describe the present disclosure. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the specification to refer to the same or like parts.

[0039] In the present disclosure, redundant descriptions of the same component are omitted.

[0040] It should also be understood that when a component is described as being "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it may be directly connected or coupled to the other component, but there may be other components in between. On the other hand, when a component is described as being "directly connected" or "coupled" to another component, it should be understood that there is no other component between the connected or coupled components.

[0041] The terms used in this specification are merely used to describe particular embodiments and are not intended to limit the disclosure.

[0042] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0043] As used herein, the terms "includes" or "has" are intended to specify the presence of the features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof disclosed in the specification, and are not to be understood as precluding the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0044] As used herein, the term "and/or" includes a combination of a plurality of listed items or any of the plurality of listed items. as used herein "a or b" may include "a," "b," or "both a and b."

[0045] FIG. 1 shows a laundry treatment apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In the embodiment, the laundry treatment apparatus 1 includes a first treatment apparatus 10, a second treatment apparatus 20, and a control panel 200.

[0046] In the description of the present disclosure, the terms forward direction (+X), backward direction (-X), first side direction (+Y), second side direction (-Y), upward direction (+Z), and downward direction (-Z) may be consistently defined for the respective elements. For example, the front-to-back direction (+X, -X) of the first treatment apparatus 10 may be defined as the same as the front-to-back direction of the second treatment apparatus 20, the control panel 200, and the like, and the side direction (+Y, -Y) and the up-down direction (+Z, -Z) may be defined similarly.

[0047] The first treatment apparatus 10 and the second treatment apparatus 20 may be of various types for treating laundry, such as a washing machine for washing laundry and/or a dryer for drying laundry. The first treatment apparatus 10 may be a washing machine and the second treatment apparatus 20 may be a dryer. The first treatment apparatus 10 and the second treatment apparatus 20 may both be washing machines or dryers. The first treatment apparatus 10 may be a dryer and the second treatment apparatus 20 may be a washing machine. They may be any various other apparatuses for treating laundry.

[0048] In an embodiment, the first treatment apparatus 10 arranged on the lower side may correspond to a washing machine for washing laundry. The first treatment apparatus 10 may be provided therein with a first drum 12 arranged to accommodate laundry, and a tub 14. The first drum 12 in the first treatment apparatus 10 may be rotatably arranged inside the tub 14. The second treatment apparatus 20 is positioned on top of the first treatment apparatus 10. The first treatment apparatus 10 supports the second treatment apparatus 20. The second treatment apparatus 20 may correspond to a dryer for drying the laundry. The second treatment apparatus 20 may be provided therein with the first drum 12 arranged to accommodate laundry, and the tub 14.

[0049] The first treatment apparatus 10 may include a first cabinet 110 defining an exterior. The first cabinet 110 may include a first front panel 112 arranged on a front side. The first front panel 112 may include a laundry opening in communication with the first drum 12. The laundry opening may be opened and closed by a first cabinet door 17. The axis of rotation of the first drum 12 of the first treatment apparatus 10 according to the embodiment extends in the front-to-back direction (+X, -Y).

[0050] The first treatment apparatus 10 may be provided with a first left side panel 115 facing in the left direction (-Y). The first treatment apparatus 10 may be provided with a first right side panel 116 (see FIG. 2) facing in the right direction (+Y). On the rear side of the first treatment apparatus 10, a first rear panel (not shown) may be arranged. On the top side of the first treatment apparatus 10, a first top panel (not shown) may be. On the bottom side of the first treatment apparatus 10, a first bottom panel 117 (see FIG. 2) may be arranged.

[0051] The first front panel 112, the first side panel 115, the first rear panel (not shown), the first top panel 119, and the first bottom panel (not shown) may be combined with each other to form the first cabinet 110, and may be coupled to each other. The first cabinet 110 may define a space in which built-in components constituting the first treatment apparatus 10, such as the first drum 12, are arranged.

[0052] Laundry or the like that needs to be treated may be introduced into the first cabinet 110 through the laundry opening of the first treatment apparatus 10 and accommodated in the first drum 12, and a treatment process may be performed by the first treatment apparatus 10.

[0053] A detergent drawer opening is formed in the first front panel 112, and a detergent storage unit 16 is inserted into the detergent drawer opening. In the laundry treatment apparatus 1 according to the one embodiment, the first treatment apparatus 10 may be disposed on the ground, and the detergent storage unit 16 may be positioned above the laundry opening of the first treatment apparatus 10 to facilitate insertion and withdrawal of the detergent storage unit 16. The detergent storage unit 16 may be positioned between the laundry opening of the first treatment apparatus 10 and the control panel 200. That is, the detergent storage unit 16 may be positioned above the laundry opening of the first treatment apparatus 10 and below the control panel 200. The detergent storage unit 16 may be inserted into or withdrawn from the first cabinet 110 by a user. For example, the user may remove the detergent storage unit 16 from the first cabinet 110, store detergent in the detergent storage unit 16, and then insert the detergent storage unit 16 into the first cabinet 110.

[0054] In one embodiment, the first front panel 112 may be provided with a filter opening into which a filter unit 18 is inserted to capture foreign matter from the wash water. The filter unit 18 may be arranged on one side of the lower portion of the first front panel 112. The filter unit 18 may be inserted into the first cabinet 110 through the filter opening, and may be connected to the flow path for which wash water discharged from the tub 14. The filter unit 18 may filter out foreign matter from the wash water discharged from the tub 14 after the washing process is performed. The function of the filter unit 18 is not necessarily limited thereto, and may be arranged to filter out foreign matter from various objects. For example, the filter unit 18 may be arranged to filter out foreign matter from wash water for a wash process prior to the wash process.

[0055] A user may insert or withdraw the filter unit 18 into or out of the first cabinet 110 through the filter opening. Once withdrawn, the filter unit 18 may be cleaned and reused or may be replaced. The filter unit 18 may have a longer cycle of insertion and withdrawal than the detergent storage unit 16. Accordingly, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the detergent drawer opening through which the detergent storage unit 16 having a relatively short insertion and withdrawal cycle is inserted may be disposed on the upper side of the first front panel 112. Also, the filter opening through which the filter unit 18 having a relatively long insertion and withdrawal cycle is inserted may be disposed on the lower side of the first front panel 112 to realize the structure of the first front panel 112 that provides excellent space utilization while improving user convenience.

[0056] Further, the wash water discharge flow path connected to the tub 14 inside the first cabinet 110 may be positioned on a lower side within the first cabinet 110 to facilitate the discharge of wash water. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the filter unit 18 may be arranged on the lower side of the first cabinet 110 to efficiently connect with the wash water discharge path.

[0057] The first treatment apparatus 10 may be provided with a first apparatus controller 19. The first apparatus controller 19 is configured to control various apparatuses including the first treatment apparatus 10. The first apparatus controller 19 is disposed inside the first cabinet 110. The first apparatus controller 19 may include a circuit board and electronic components mounted on the circuit board. In an embodiment, the first apparatus controller 19 may check information corresponding to an operation signal received through the control panel 200 in a memory and perform apparatus control corresponding to the operation signal. The first apparatus controller 19 may transmit the status of the first treatment apparatus 10 to the control panel 200.

[0058] The second treatment apparatus 20 may include a second cabinet 120 defining an exterior. The second cabinet 120 may include a second front panel 122 arranged on a front side. The second front panel 122 may include a laundry opening in communication with the second drum 22. The laundry opening may be opened and closed by a second cabinet door 27.

[0059] The second treatment apparatus 20 may be provided with a second left panel 125 facing in a one side direction (+Y). The second treatment apparatus 20 may be provided with a second right side panel 126 (see FIG. 2) facing in the opposite side direction (-Y). On the rear side of the second treatment apparatus 20, a second rear panel (not shown) may be arranged. On the top side of the second treatment apparatus 20, a second top panel 127 may be arranged. On the bottom side of the second treatment apparatus 20, a base 500 (see FIG. 2) may be arranged.

[0060] The second front panel 122, the second side panel 125, the second rear panel 128 (see FIG. 2), the second top panel 127, and the base 500 may be combined with each other to form the second cabinet 120, and may be coupled to each other. The second cabinet 120 may define a space in which built-in components constituting the second treatment apparatus 20, such as the second drum 22, are arranged.

[0061] Laundry or the like that needs to be treated may be introduced into the second cabinet 120 through the laundry opening of the second treatment apparatus 20 and accommodated in the second drum 22. The laundry accommodated in the second drum 22 may be subjected to a treatment process including washing and drying by the second treatment apparatus 20.

[0062] The laundry opening of the second treatment apparatus 20 according to the embodiment is arranged in the second front panel 122 along with the second cabinet door 27. The second drum 22 accommodated in the second treatment apparatus 20 has an axis of rotation extending along the front-to-back direction (+X, -X).

[0063] The second treatment apparatus 20 is disposed on top of the first treatment apparatus 10. In one embodiment, the upper portion of the first treatment apparatus 10 may be coupled to the lower portion of the second treatment apparatus 20. A structure that supports the second treatment apparatus 20 may be provided on the top side of the first treatment apparatus 10. For example, the first top panel (not shown) of the first treatment apparatus 10 may have a structure that directly or indirectly supports the base 500 of the second treatment apparatus 20.

[0064] The second treatment apparatus 20 may be provided with a second apparatus controller 29. The second apparatus controller 29 is configured to control various apparatuses including the second treatment apparatus 20. The second apparatus controller 29 is disposed inside the second cabinet 120. The second apparatus controller 29 may include a circuit board and electronic components mounted on the circuit board. In an embodiment, the second apparatus controller 29 may check information corresponding to an operation signal received through the control panel 200 in a memory and perform apparatus control corresponding to the operation signal. The second apparatus controller 29 may transmit the status of the second treatment apparatus 20 to the control panel 200.

[0065] The control panel 200 is disposed between the first front panel 112 and the second front panel 122. As The control panel 200 is disposed at a position between the first front panel 112 and the second front panel 122, which is at a height approximately corresponding to the waist of the user, a height allowing the user to conveniently operate the apparatus may be secured. The control panel 200 may be in signal communication with at least one of the first treatment apparatus 10 and the second treatment apparatus 20. In an embodiment, the control panel 200 is in signal communication with the first treatment apparatus 10 and the second treatment apparatus 20. In an embodiment, the control panel 200 is in signal communication with the first apparatus controller 19 and/or the second treatment apparatus 20. A user interface (UI) is displayed on the front of the control panel 200. The the user is allowed to control the first treatment apparatus 10 and/or the second treatment apparatus 20 through the control panel 200.

[0066] A rear bracket 300 is arranged at the rear of the laundry treatment apparatus 1. The rear bracket 300 is coupled to the first treatment apparatus 10 and the second treatment apparatus 20. The rear bracket 300 is disposed on a rear upper portion of the first treatment apparatus 10 and simultaneously on a rear lower portion of the second treatment apparatus 20. A handle for a carrier is formed on the rear bracket 300. The carrier may move the laundry treatment apparatus 1 more easily using the handle formed on the rear bracket 300.

[0067] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the laundry treatment apparatus according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of the elements constituting the first cabinet 110 and the elements constituting the second cabinet 120. For simplicity, the second top panel 127 of the second cabinet 120 is not shown.

[0068] The first cabinet 110 defines the exterior of the first treatment apparatus 10. The first front panel 112 defines the front surface of the first cabinet 110. The first right side panel 115 defines the right side surface of the first cabinet 110. The first left side panel 116 defines the left side surface of the first cabinet 110. The first rear panel (not shown) defines the rear surface of the first cabinet 110. The first bottom panel 117 defines the bottom surface of the first cabinet 110. The first top panel 119 (see FIG. 5) defines the top surface of the first cabinet 110.

[0069] The second cabinet 120 defines the exterior of the second treatment apparatus 10. The second front panel 122 defines the front surface of the second cabinet 120. The second right side panel 125 defines the right side surface of the second cabinet 120. The second left side panel 126 defines the left side surface of the second cabinet 120. The second rear panel 128 defines the rear surface of the second cabinet 120. The base 500 defines the bottom surface of the second cabinet 120.

[0070] A lower frame 600 is positioned on the front surface of the base 500. The lower frame 600 is positioned at the rear of the control panel 200. The lower frame 600 is positioned on the lower portion of the second treatment apparatus 20. Both sides of the lower frame 600 may be coupled to the second right side panel 125 and the second left side panel 126. At least a portion of the lower frame 600 is positioned at the rear of the control panel 200. At least a portion of the lower frame 600 is arranged at a position where it overlaps a portion of the front portion 510 of the base 500.

[0071] An upper frame 700 is arranged such that at least a portion of the upper frame 700 overlaps at least a portion of the front surface of the base 500 when seen from the front. At least a portion of the upper frame 700 is arranged in a position where it overlaps the control panel 200 when seen from the front. The upper frame 700 may be disposed on a rear side corresponding to the rear of the first front panel 112. The both sides of the lower portion of the upper frame 700 may be coupled to the first right side panel 115 and the first left side panel 116. Also, both sides of the upper portion of the upper frame 700 may be coupled to the second right side panel 125 and the second left side panel 126 in an insulating state. The upper frame 700 may contribute to enhancing structural stability and improving rigidity of the upper side of the first treatment apparatus 10.

[0072] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the base provided for the laundry treatment apparatus according to the one embodiment of the present disclosure. The base 500 according to one embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0073] The base 500 defines the outer appearance of the lower portion of the second treatment apparatus 20. The base 500 defines the bottom surface of the second treatment apparatus 20. The base 500 is positioned further rearward than the second side front bent portions 125a and 126a, which will be described later. The base 500 may be arranged to support a heat exchanger (not shown). The heat exchanger (not shown) may be a heat pump (not shown). The heat pump may include an evaporator (not shown) to cool air passed through an airflow portion 520, a compressor (not shown) to compress and heat refrigerant passed through the evaporator (not shown), a condenser (not shown) to heat air with the refrigerant passed through the compressor (not shown) to produce high-temperature dry hot air, and an expansion valve (not shown) to expand the refrigerant passed through the condenser (not shown) to reduce the temperature.

[0074] The base 500 may have an inlet 511 formed in communication with the second drum 22 to allow air within the second drum 22 to be drawn in. While the air drawn in through the inlet 511 passes through the airflow portion 520, moisture is removed therefrom by the heat pump (not shown). The airflow portion 520 may be provided with a device that needs to make a direct contact with the air discharged from the drum 200.

[0075] An apparatus mount 531 may be formed on the base 500. The apparatus mount 531 may be separated by the airflow portion 520 and a partition wall 550. Various apparatuses such as a drive part (not shown) configured to drive the second drum 22, the compressor (not shown) of the heat pump (not shown) may be installed on the apparatus mount 531. An apparatus that does not need to make a direct contact with dry air may be installed on the apparatus mount 531.

[0076] A lower portion of the base 500 may be provided with a collector 534 to collect condensed water. A drain pump (not shown) may be installed on the base 300 to drain the water condensed in the collector 534.

[0077] The airflow portion 520 may be provided with an evaporator mount 524 on which the evaporator (not shown) is seated, and a condenser mount 523 on which the condenser (not shown) is seated.

[0078] The evaporator mount 524 may have a plurality of protrusions 524a formed to prevent foreign matter such as lint discharged from the second drum 22 from entering the collector 534.

[0079] The condenser mount 523 may be provided with a recess into which the lower end of the condenser may be inserted, as there is no possibility of water accumulation being caused by heat dissipating from the condenser. Thus, the coupling between the condenser (not shown) and the base 500 may be enhanced.

[0080] The water condensed in the evaporator (not shown) is collected on the bottom surface of the airflow portion 520 and moves to the condensate collector 534 along a through-hole 551 formed through the partition wall 550. In this case, the bottom surface of the airflow portion 520 may be inclined toward the through-hole 551. The condensate collector 534 may be arranged at a level lower than the bottom surface of the airflow portion 520.

[0081] The evaporator (not shown) and condenser (not shown) may be provided by combining a plurality of heat exchange plates formed of metal and refrigerant pipes through which refrigerant flows. The direction in which air flows may be parallel to the heat exchange plates. As the hot and humid air discharged from the second drum 22 passes through the evaporator (not shown), the air is cooled, and the moisture becomes condensate and is collected in the condensate collector 534. The air passing through the condenser (not shown) may then be heated and hot dry air may be regenerated. The hot dry air may be reintroduced into the second drum 22 to dry the laundry inside the drum.

[0082] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of portion A in FIG. 2. A description will be provided with reference to FIG. 4.

[0083] The first right side panel 115 is provided with a right side portion 115y defining the right side surface of the first treatment apparatus 10 and a first right side front bent portion 115a bending inward from the front of the right side portion 115y. The first left side panel 116 is provided with a left side portion 116y defining the left side surface of the first treatment apparatus 10 and a first left side front bent portion 116a bending inward from the front of the left side portion 116y.

[0084] The first right side front bent portion 115a may be provided with a second restraining portion to which the upper frame 700 may be temporarily fixed. In an embodiment, the second restraining portion may include an engagement groove 116e. The engagement groove 116e may be formed in the shape of a groove extending outward from an inner side of the first right side front bent portion 115a. The engagement groove 116e is formed in a region that overlaps the upper frame 700 when seen from the front.

[0085] The first left side front bent portion 116a may also be provided with a second restraining portion to which the upper frame 700 may be temporarily fixed. In an embodiment, the second restraining portion may include an engagement groove 115e. The engagement groove 115e may be formed in the shape of a groove extending outward from an inner side of the first left side front bent portion 115a. The engagement groove 116e is formed in a region that overlaps the upper frame 700 when seen from the front.

[0086] The first side front bent portions 115a and 116a may be provided with a plurality of first fastening portions 115c, 116c, and 116d. The plurality of first fastening portions 115c, 116c, and 116d are configured for coupling of the upper frame 700 and the first side front bent portions 115a and 116a. The upper frame 700 is fastened to the first side front bent portions 115a and 116a by a fastening member (not shown) through the first fastening portions 115c, 116c, and 116d. The fastening member (not shown) may be provided in various forms, such as screws and rivets.

[0087] The second right side panel 125 is provided with a second right side front bent portion 125a that bends inward from the front. The second left side panel 126 is provided with a second left side front bent portion 126a that bends inward from the front.

[0088] The second side front bent portions 125a and 126a may be provided with a second fastening portion 125c, 126c. In an embodiment, the second right side frontal bent portion 125a is provided with a second fastening portion 125c. The second left side front bent portion 126a is provided with a second fastening portion 126c. The second fastening portions 125c and 126c may be formed in the shape of a hole. The second fastening portions 125c and 126c may be formed on the lower side of the second side front bent portions 125a and 126a. The upper frame 700 may be fastened to the second side front bent portions 125a and 126a by a fastening member (not shown). The fastening member (not shown) may be provided in various forms, such as screws and rivets.

[0089] The second right front bent portion 125a may be provided with an insulating member 130a. The second left side front bent portion 126a may be provided with an insulating member 130b. The insulating members 130a and 130b may be provided at at least the second fastening portions 125c and 126c of the second front bent portions 125a and 126a. The upper frame 700 may be coupled to the second side front bent portions 126a and 126b via the insulating members 130a and 130b. The first treatment apparatus 10 and the second treatment apparatus 20 may need to be insulated from each other. As the upper frame 700 is coupled to the first treatment apparatus 10 and the second treatment apparatus 20, it may need to be insulated from the second treatment apparatus 20 in terms of the coupling relationship. The insulating members 130a and 130b may be arranged between the upper frame 700 and the second fastening portions 125c and 126c of the second front bent portions 126a and 126b.

[0090] Coupling bosses 513a and 513b may be formed on the front surface 512 of the base 500. The coupling bosses 513a and 513b may protrude from the front surface 512 of the base 500. The coupling bosses 513a and 513b may be formed near a location where the upper frame 700 is couple to the second front bent portions 126a and 126b. The coupling bosses 513a and 513b are formed at a position that does not overlap with the second front bent portions 126a and 126b when seen from the front. In one embodiment, the mating bosses 513a and 513b may be formed on both sides of the lower portion of the front surface 512 of the base 500. The coupling bosses 513a and 513b may be formed at a height at which the second fastening portions 125c and 126c of the second front bent portions 126a and 126b are formed.

[0091] The upper frame 700 may be coupled to the base 500 by the coupling bosses 513a and 513b. The base 500 is generally formed of a resin material, and therefore the insulation of the first treatment apparatus 10 and the second treatment apparatus 20 may be maintained even though the treatment apparatuses are directly coupled to the upper frame 700. The upper frame 700 is fastened to the coupling bosses 513a and 513b by a fastening member (not shown). The fastening member (not shown) may be provided in various forms, such as screws and rivets.

[0092] A first bracket 800a is positioned between the first right side panel 115 and the first left side panel 116. A second bracket 800b is positioned between the first left side panel 116 and the second left side panel 126. The first bracket 800a and the second bracket 800b are shaped to be symmetrical to each other. In the present disclosure, either of the first bracket 800a and the second bracket 800b may be referred to as a bracket 800. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a pair of brackets 800 is provided. The pair of brackets 800 includes the first bracket 800a and the second bracket 800b.

[0093] The brackets 800 include a protruding portion 830. In an embodiment, the first bracket 800a is coupled to an upper portion of the first right side panel 115 The protruding portion 830 of the first bracket 800a protrudes forward of the first right side panel 115. In an embodiment, the second bracket 800b is coupled to an upper portion of the first left side panel 116. The protruding portion 830 of the second bracket 800b protrudes forward of the first left side panel 116.

[0094] FIG. 5 illustrates a first embodiment of coupling between the upper frame and the first cabinet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. A description will be provided with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 shows the first rear panel 118, which defines the rear surface of the first cabinet 110, and the first side panels 115 and 116, which defines both side surfaces of the first cabinet 110. The first side panels 115 and 116 include the first right side panel 115 and the first left side panel 116.

[0095] The upper frame 700 is coupled to the first right side panel 115 and the first left side panel 116. The upper frame 700 may be directly coupled to the first right side panel 115 and the first left side panel 116. Alternatively, the upper frame 700 may be indirectly coupled to the first right side panel 115 and the first left side panel 116. The first right side panel 115 is provided with first front bent portions 115a and 116b. The first right side front bent portion 115a is an element extending inward from the front of the first right side panel 115 in a bending manner. The first left side front bent portion 116a is an element extending inward from the front of the first left side panel 116 in a bending manner. The upper frame 700 is coupled to the first right side front bent portion 115a and the first left side front bent portion 116a.

[0096] The upper frame 700 is coupled to the first right side panel 115 by the first bracket 800a and to the first left side panel 116 by the second bracket 800b.

[0097] A first reinforcement frame 141 bending inward is arranged on the top of the first right side panel 115. In an embodiment, the first reinforcement frame 141 may be formed by bending the upper side of the first right side panel 115. The first reinforcement frame 141 may be a plate that is bonded to the top surface of the first right side panel 115 for purposes such as rigidity enhancement. In other words, the first reinforcement frame 141 may be integrated with the side surface defining the first right side panel 115 or provided as a separate element. The first bracket 800a may be coupled to the first reinforcement frame 141.

[0098] A second reinforcement frame 142 bending inward is arranged on the top of the first left side panel 116. In an embodiment, the second reinforcement frame 142 may be formed by bending the upper side of the first left side panel 116. The second reinforcement frame 142 may be a plate that is bonded to the top surface of the first left side panel 116 for purposes such as rigidity enhancement. In other words, the second reinforcement frame 142 may be integrated with the side surface defining the first left side panel 116 or provided as a separate element. The second bracket 800 may be coupled to the second reinforcement frame 142.

[0099] That is, the bracket 800 may be coupled to the first side panel 115 and 116 by being coupled to the reinforcement frames 141 and 142 of the first side panels 115 and 116. The upper frame 700 may be coupled to the bracket 800 and thus be coupled to the first side panels 115 and 116 by being.

[0100] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a bracket according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. A description will be provided with reference to FIG. 6. The bracket 800 includes a first portion 810, a second portion 820, and a protruding portion 830.

[0101] The first portion 810 is a portion that is fastened to the reinforcement frames 141 and 142. A first fastening hole 811 is formed in the first portion 810. With the first portion 810 and the reinforcement frames 141 and 142 arranged to overlap each other, a fastening member 900a (see FIG. 7) may be inserted into the first fastening hole 811 and coupled to the reinforcement frames 141 and 142, such that the bracket 800 may be coupled to the reinforcement frames 141 and 142. A boss 812 may be formed around the first portion 810. At least a portion of the first portion 810 faces the first reinforcement frame 141. At least a portion of the first portion 810 is parallel to the first reinforcement frame 141.

[0102] A second portion 820 extends upward from an end of the first portion 810. The second portion 820 is positioned in front of the first side panels 115 and 116. A second fastening hole 821 is formed in the second portion 820. With the second portion 820 and the upper frame 700 arranged to overlap each other, a fastening member 900b (see FIG. 9) may be inserted into the second fastening hole 821 and coupled to the upper frame 700, such that the bracket 800 may be coupled to the upper frame 700. A boss 822 may be formed around the second fastening hole 821.

[0103] The protruding portion 830 extends forward from an end of the second coupling hole 821. Once the bracket 800 is coupled to the first side panels 115 and 116, the protruding portion 830 protrudes further forward than the front of the first side panels 115 and 116. When seen from the front, the protruding portion 830 may have a rectangular shape elongated in the horizontal direction.

[0104] The bracket 800 may be formed by bending a single sheet of material to form the shape of the bracket 800. In an embodiment, the first portion 810, the second portion 820, and the protruding portion 830 may be formed of a flat plate by bending portions of the plate corresponding the first portion 810 and the protruding portion 830 in different directions with respect to a portion of the plate corresponding to the second portion 820.

[0105] FIG. 7 is an enlarged rear perspective view of portion B in FIG. 5. FIG. 8 is a view corresponding to FIG. 7 with the upper frame removed. FIG. 9 is an enlarged front perspective view of portion B in FIG. 5. A description will be provided with reference to FIGS. 7, 8, and 9.

[0106] The second bracket 800b is coupled to the second reinforcement frame 142. The second bracket 800b may be positioned under the second reinforcement frame 142. The second reinforcement frame 142 may include a top portion 142a defining a top surface and a downward extension 142a extending downward from the top portion 142a. The bracket 800 may be coupled to the top portion 142a. A through-hole is formed in the top portion 142a. The through-hole in the top portion 142a is formed at a position corresponding to the first fastening hole 811 in the bracket 800. The fastening member 900a is arranged through the first fastening hole 811 and the through-hole in the top portion 142a to couple the second bracket 800b to the second reinforcement frame 142.

[0107] Once the second bracket 800b and the second reinforcement frame 142 are coupled, the second portion 820 is positioned at the front. The second portion 820 may be coupled to the upper frame 700 by a fastening member 900b.

[0108] The protruding portion 830 may overhang the coupling hole 714 formed in the upper frame 700. The coupling hole 714 is formed at a position corresponding to the protrusion 830. As the upper frame 700 overhangs the protruding portion 830, the upper frame 700 may be temporarily coupled to the first and second side panels 115 and 116 that constitute the first cabinet 110.

[0109] In an embodiment, the upper frame 700 includes an element to be temporarily fixed to the first cabinet 110. The upper frame 700 may have a first restraining portion formed thereon. In an embodiment, the first restraining portion may be provided with an engagement protrusion 716. The engagement protrusion 716 overhangs the engagement groove 116e. The position of the upper frame 700 relative to the first cabinet 110 may be guided by the engagement groove and the engagement protrusion 716. The position of the upper frame 700 relative to the first cabinet 110 may be determined by the engagement groove 116e and the engagement protrusion 716. When the upper frame 700 is connected by the engagement groove 116e and the engagement protrusion 716, movement of the upper frame 700 in the vertical direction may be limited.

[0110] The engagement protrusion 716 protrudes rearward of the upper frame 700. The engagement protrusion 716 may be formed by bending a portion of the upper frame 700. The engagement protrusion 716 may be formed by cutting and bending a portion of the upper frame 700. The engagement protrusion 716 may overhang the engagement groove 116e formed in the first front bent portion 116b. The engagement groove 116e may be formed by cutting a portion of the first front bent portion 116b from the inner side of the first front bent portion 116b.

[0111] A first front fastening portion 711b may be formed on the upper frame 700 at a position facing the first front bent portion 116b. A second front fastening portion 712b may be formed on the upper frame 700 at a position facing the first front bent portion 116b. The first front fastening portion 711b and the second front fastening portion 712b may be coupled to the first fastening portions 116c and 116d of the first side front bent portions 115a and 116a by a fastening member.

[0112] In an embodiment, a base fastening hole 716b may be formed in the upper frame 700. The base fastening hole 716b may be formed at a position corresponding to the coupling boss 513b. Although not shown in FIG. 5, a base fastening hole (see FIG. 2) corresponding to the coupling boss 513a may also be formed. A fastening member (not shown) is coupled the coupling boss 513b through the base fastening hole 716b. The upper frame 700 and the base 500 may be fastened to each other by the fastening member (not shown). The fastening members (not shown) that couple the upper frame 700 and the base 500 are coupled to the coupling bosses 513a and 513b without contacting the lower frame 600. In an embodiment, insulation between the first treatment apparatus 10 and the second treatment apparatus 20 may be maintained because the base 500 is formed of an insulating material, even when the fastening member 900 is formed of a conductive material. By coupling the upper frame 700 and the base 500, the side-to-side movement of the laundry treatment apparatus 1 may be reduced. Further, when the laundry treatment apparatus 1 is carried by a carrier using the rear bracket 300, the load may be concentrated on the fastening portion provided on the front side. For example, when the carrier carries the laundry treatment apparatus 1 using the rear bracket 300, the laundry treatment apparatus 1 may be lifted in a forwardly tilted position. In this case, the load may be concentrated on the second fastening portions 125c and 126c. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, by forming the coupling bosses 513a and 513b on the base 500 and coupling the same to the upper frame 700, the coupling strength may be increased and breakage may be prevented when the laundry treatment apparatus 1 is carried.

[0113] The upper frame 700 may have a third fastening portion 715b formed thereon. The third connection portion 715b may be formed at a position corresponding to the second fastening portion 126c. Although not shown in FIGS. 7 to 9, a third fastening portion (not shown) corresponding to the second fastening portion 125c may also be formed. The third fastening portion 715b may be formed in the shape of a hole. A fastening member (not shown) is coupled to the second fastening portion 126c through the third fastening portion 715b. The upper frame 700 and the second left side front bent portion 126a may be coupled to each other by the fastening member (not shown). As described above, at least the second coupling portions 125c and 126c in the second front bent portions 125a and 126a may be provided with insulating members 130a and 130b. The upper frame 700 may be coupled to the second front bent portion 126b by the insulating member 130b.

[0114] FIG. 10 is a front view of an upper frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0115] A detergent drawer opening 720 through which a detergent storage unit for supplying detergent to the first treatment apparatus 10 may be formed in the upper frame 700. The first treatment apparatus 10 may correspond to a washing machine that treats laundry using detergent, and the upper frame 700 may have the detergent drawer opening 720 through which the detergent storage unit is inserted.

[0116] The front surface 710 of the upper frame 700 may include a first counterpart surface 711 and a second counterpart surface 712. Most of the area including the first counterpart surface 711 is disposed on the front surface of the first treatment apparatus 10, and most of the the area including the second counterpart surface 712 is disposed on the front surface of the second treatment apparatus 20.

[0117] In an embodiment, the portions of the bracket 800 and the upper frame 700 coupled to each other may be formed on the second counterpart surface 712.

[0118] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of portion C in FIG. 9. FIG. 12 is a view illustrating a coupling hole formed in the upper frame with the bracket of FIG. 11 removed. A description will be provided with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0119] When seen from the front, the protruding portion 830 of the bracket 800 has a rectangular shape elongated in the horizontal direction. The vertical length h2 of the coupling hole 718a is greater than the vertical length h1 of the protruding portion 830.

[0120] The second coupling hole 821 formed in the second portion 820 of the bracket 800 faces the third coupling hole 717a formed in the upper frame 700. The bracket 800 and the upper frame 700 may be coupled by a fastening member screw-coupled through the second fastening hole 821 and the third fastening hole 717a. The fastening member may be a right-hand threaded screw. In other words, the fastening member is rotated to the right (in the direction of the arrow) to couple the bracket 800 and the upper frame 700. However, when the fastening member is rotated to the right, friction may cause the upper frame 700 to rotate together therewith to the right, resulting in poor workability. The present disclosure discloses the shape of the coupling hole 718a that may improve workability in fastening the upper frame 700.

[0121] In an embodiment, the coupling hole 718a includes an insertion opening 718aa, a first extension opening 718ab, and a second extension opening 718ac.

[0122] The insertion opening 718aa may have an area corresponding to the protruding portion 830. The insertion opening 718aa may include a tolerance for insertion of the protruding portion 830. The insertion opening 718aa may have a rectangular shape.

[0123] The first extension opening 718ab is formed in a portion of the bottom surface of the insertion opening 718aa. The first extension opening 718ab extends downward along a direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the fastening member arranged through the coupling hole 718a. In an embodiment, the rotation according to the fastening operation of the fastening member is in the right direction (clockwise), and the first extension opening 718ab is formed at the lower left side of the insertion opening 718aa.

[0124] The second extension opening 718ac is formed on a portion of the top surface of the insertion opening 718aa. The second extension opening 718ac is formed on a side opposite and above the side where the first extension opening 718ab is formed. In an embodiment, the first extension opening 718ab is formed at the lower left side of the insertion opening 718aa, and the second extension opening 718ac is formed at the upper right side of the insertion opening 718aa.

[0125] The first extension opening 718ab and the second extension opening 718ac are formed such that they partially overlap each other along the vertical direction. The width of the overlapping portions may be d1. As the first extension opening 718ab and the second extension opening 718ac have overlapping portions, a sufficient width of the coupling hole 718a in the vertical direction may be secured in all sections in forming the coupling hole 718a.

[0126] Of the portions 718b and 718c defining the top surface of the coupling hole 718a, a portion 718c is closer to the protruding portion 830 than the other portion 718b. Of the portions 718b and 718c defining the top surface of the coupling hole 718a, the first top surface portion 718c, which is a portion on the side biased in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the fastening member according to the fastening operation, is closer to the protruding portion 830 than the other portion 718b. In the embodiment, the rotation according to the fastening operation of the fastening member is in the right direction (clockwise). Of the portions 718b and 718c defining the top surface of the coupling hole 718a, the portion closer to the protruding portion 830 is the left portion 718c.

[0127] Of the portions 718d and 718e defining the bottom surface of the coupling hole 718a, a portion 718e is closer to the protruding portion 830 than the other portion 718d. Of the portions 718d and 718e defining the bottom surface of the coupling hole 718a, the second bottom surface portion 718e positioned on the side opposite the first top surface portion 718c is closer to the protruding portion 830 than the other portion 718c. In an embodiment, the first top surface portion 718c is formed on the left side and the second side portion 718e is formed on the right side.

[0128] In order to facilitate the operation of forming the coupling hole 718a, the width of the hole must be secured. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the coupling hole 718a is easy to form. Further, during the operation of coupling the upper frame 700 to the bracket 800 with a screw, the upper left side of the protruding portion 830 is constrained not to rotate, which may make the operation convenient.

[0129] FIG. 13 is a partial enlarged front view illustrating coupling between an upper frame and a lower frame of a laundry treatment apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Hereinafter, a description will be provided with reference to FIG. 13.

[0130] The lower frame 600 may be positioned below the second front panel 122. The lower frame 600 may be positioned at the front of the base 500. The lower frame 600 is positioned to overlap at least a portion of the base 500 when seen from the front.

[0131] The upper frame 700 and the second front bent portions 126a and 126b are coupled to each other by a fastening member 900. Insulating members 130a and 130b are arranged between the upper frame 700 and the second front bent portions 126a and 126b. The upper frame 700 and the first front bent portions 115a and 116b are coupled to each other by the fastening member 900.

[0132] FIG. 14 is a view illustrating a method according to the first embodiment of connecting the upper frame to the first cabinet. Hereinafter, an assembly method according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 14. First, the upper frame 700 is coupled to the bracket 800. The second portion 820 of the bracket 800 is screw-coupled to the upper frame 700. The second portion 820 and the upper frame 700 are detachable from each other by screw-coupling.

[0133] The upper frame 700 to which the bracket 800 is coupled is fixed in position on the first and second side panels 115 and 116. Regarding the vertical position, the engagement protrusion 716 is limited by the engagement groove 116e. As the top surface of the first portion 810 abuts the bottom surface of the reinforcement bracket 141, 142 (see FIG. 5), the front-to-back (rotational) movement is limited. Thus, the upper frame 700 is temporarily fixed to the first cabinet 110. In other words, by limiting the vertical position of the engagement protrusion 716 of the upper frame 700 and the front-to-back position of the first portion 810 of the bracket 800, the upper frame 700 may be temporarily fixed.

[0134] The upper frame 700 in the temporarily fixed state is screw-coupled to the first side front bent portions 115a and 116a (see FIG. 4) so as to be securely fixed.

[0135] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view illustrating coupling the upper frame to the first cabinet according to a second embodiment. FIG. 16 is a view illustrating a method according to the second embodiment of connecting the upper frame to the first cabinet. A description will be provided with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16.

[0136] The first left side panel 116 includes a first left side top bent portion 116g formed to extend inward from the top of the left side portion 116y. Although not shown in the figures, the first right side panel 115 includes a first right side top bent portion (not shown) formed to extend inward from the top of the right side portion 115y.

[0137] The second bracket 800b is coupled to and supported by the first left side top bent portion 116g. Although not shown in the figures, the first bracket 800a is coupled to and supported by the first right side top bent portion 115g.

[0138] In the illustrated embodiment, the second bracket 800b may be positioned under the first left side top bent portion 116g. A through-hole is formed in the first left side top bent portion 116g. The through-hole of the first left side top bent portion 116g is formed at a position corresponding to the first fastening hole 811 of the bracket 800. The fastening member 900a is arranged through the first fastening hole 811 and the through-hole of the top portion 142a to couple the bracket 800 to the first left side top bent portion 116g. Although not shown in the figures, the first bracket 800a is coupled to the first right side top bent portion (not shown) in the same way as described above.

[0139] The assembly method will now be described. First, the upper frame 700 is coupled to the bracket 800. The second portion 820 of the bracket 800 is screw-coupled to the upper frame 700. The second portion 820 and the upper frame 700 are detachable from each other by screw-coupling.

[0140] The upper frame 700 to which the bracket 800 is coupled is fixed in position on the first and second side panels 115 and 116. Regarding the vertical position, the engagement protrusion 716 is limited by the engagement groove 116e. As the top surface of the first portion 810 abuts the bottom surface of the first left side top bent portion 116g, the front-to-back (rotational) movement is limited. Thus, the upper frame 700 is temporarily fixed to the first cabinet 110. In other words, by limiting the vertical position of the engagement protrusion 716 of the upper frame 700 and the front-to-back position of the first portion 810 of the bracket 800, the upper frame 700 may be temporarily fixed.

[0141] The upper frame 700 in the temporarily fixed state is screw-coupled to the first left side top bent portion 116g so as to be securely fixed. A reinforcement bracket 142 may be placed on the top surface of the first left side top bent portion 116g.

[0142] FIG. 17 is a view illustrating coupling between the upper frame and the first cabinet according to a third embodiment. In this embodiment, screw-coupling of the first portion 810 of the bracket 800 to one of the elements constituting the first cabinet 110 may be excluded. The first portion 810 of the bracket 800 may simply be supported by any one of the elements constituting the top surface of the first cabinet 110. In the embodiment that includes the screw-coupling described above, issues such as unexpected separation of the upper frame 700 from the first cabinet 110 during the secure fixation may be avoided.

[0143] FIG. 18 is a view illustrating a method according to a fourth embodiment of connecting the upper frame to the first cabinet. A description will be provided with reference to FIG. 18.

[0144] The first bracket 800a and the second bracket 800b may be supported on the first top panel 119. The first bracket 800a and the second bracket 800b may be coupled to the first top panel 119.

[0145] FIG. 19 is a view illustrating a method of manufacturing an upper frame and a bracket according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0146] Both the upper frame 700 and the bracket 800 may be formed of a metal material, and thus a single material may be adopted therefor. The upper frame 700 and the bracket 800 may be manufactured in a single mold. The detergent drawer opening 720 formed in the upper frame 700 occupies a large area and is open. In manufacturing the bracket 800 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the portion in which the detergent drawer opening 720 is formed may be utilized.

[0147] According to an embodiment, a mold for manufacturing a part for the upper frame 700 is provided. The part for the upper frame 700 may be molded using the mold. The mold is prepared such that a plurality of brackets 800 is formed in the region where the detergent drawer opening 720 of the part for the upper frame 700 is formed. After the forming of the part for the upper frame 700 by the mold is completed (step (a)), the set portions of the plurality of brackets 800 are bent. In an embodiment, the method includes bending the first portion 810 of the plurality of brackets 800 (step (b)), and bending the protruding portion 830 of the plurality of brackets 800 (step (c)).

[0148] The bending of the plurality of brackets 800 may be performed in conjunction with the cutting and bending of the respective portions of the upper frame 700.

[0149] Once the bending process of the plurality of brackets 800 is completed, the plurality of brackets 800 is separated from the part for the upper frame 700. Thereby, the plurality of brackets 800 and the upper frame 700 may be obtained.

[0150] In applying embodiments of the present disclosure, a disassembly process for after-sales service will be described.

[0151] When the laundry treatment apparatus 1 is installed in an installation environment, it is arranged in the state shown in FIG. 1. When the first front panel 112 and the control panel 200 of the first treatment apparatus 10 are removed by an operator in the process of providing after-sales service, the upper frame 700 is exposed from the front, as shown in FIG. 13. To remove the upper frame 700, the fastening members 900 shown at the front are removed. Once all the fastening members 900 are removed, the upper frame 700 will hang from the protrusion 830 of the bracket 800. By removing the upper frame 700 hanging from the protruding portion 830, the upper frame 700 may be removed without disassembling the second treatment apparatus 20, as shown in FIG. 4. Thereby, the disassembly process of the upper frame 700 may be simplified and the quality of service may be improved.

[0152] While the present disclosure has been shown and described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure as provided in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A laundry treatment apparatus comprising:

a first treatment apparatus having a first cabinet, and a first drum arranged inside the first cabinet to accommodate laundry; and

a second treatment apparatus disposed on top of the first treatment apparatus, the second treatment apparatus having a second cabinet and a second drum arranged inside the second cabinet to accommodate laundry,

wherein the first treatment apparatus comprises:

an upper frame fastened to a pair of first side panels constituting the first cabinet and a pair of second side panels constituting the second cabinet; and

a bracket removably coupled to the upper frame and supported upward by the first cabinet.

2. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein a front surface of the first cabinet includes a first front panel,
wherein the upper frame is positioned at a rear of the first front panel.

3. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bracket is coupled to and supported by the first side panels.

4. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the first side panel comprises:

a side portion defining a side surface of the first cabinet; and

a top bent portion extending inward from a top of the side portion,

wherein the bracket is coupled to and supported by the top bent portion.

5. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein a top surface of the first cabinet includes a first top panel,

wherein the first cabinet comprises a reinforcement frame positioned below the first top panel and extending along a front-to-back direction,

wherein the bracket is coupled to and supported by the reinforcement frame.

6. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 5, wherein the reinforcement frame is arranged on a top surface of the pair of first side panels.

7. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 6, wherein each of the first side panel comprises:

a side portion defining a side surface of the first cabinet; and

a top bent portion extending inward from a top of the side portion,

wherein the reinforcement frame is positioned at the top bent portion.

8. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein a top surface of the first cabinet comprises a first top panel,
wherein the bracket is coupled to and supported by the first top panel.

9. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the first side panel comprises:

a side portion defining a side surface of the first cabinet; and

a side front end bent portion extending inward from a front end of the side portion,

wherein the upper frame has a first restraining portion formed thereon, and

wherein the side front end bent portion is configured to have a second restraining portion formed thereon, the second restraining portion engaging with the first restraining portion to restrict vertical movement of the upper frame.

10. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bracket comprises:

a first portion supported by the first cabinet; and

a second portion removably coupled to the upper frame.

11. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 10, wherein the second portion and the upper frame are coupled by a fastening member.

12. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 10, wherein the second portion is formed by being bent from an end of the first portion.

13. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 10, wherein the second portion is formed by being bent perpendicularly from the first portion.

14. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 11, wherein the bracket further comprises:

a protruding portion protruding forward from an end of the second portion,

wherein the upper frame comprises a coupling hole formed to receive the protruding portion inserted thereinto.

15. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 14, wherein the bracket is formed of a single plate-shaped material by bending the first portion and the protruding portion in different directions.

16. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 14, wherein the coupling hole comprises:

an insertion opening having an area corresponding to the protruding portion; and

a first extension opening extending from a portion of a bottom surface of the insertion opening,

the first extension extending downward along a direction opposite to a direction of rotation of the fastening member according to a fastening operation.

17. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein the coupling hole further comprises:

a second extension opening extending from a portion of a top surface of the insertion opening,

the second extension opening extending upward on an opposite side to the first extension opening.

18. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein the coupling hole further comprises:

a first extension opening extending from a portion of a bottom surface of the insertion opening,

the first extension extending downward along a direction opposite to a direction of rotation of the fastening member according to a fastening operation; and

a second extension opening extending from a portion of a top surface of the insertion opening,

the second extension opening extending upward on an opposite side to the first extension opening,

wherein the first extension opening and the second extension opening is configured to have portions overlapping each other along a vertical direction.

19. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein a vertical length of the coupling hole is greater than a vertical length of the protruding portion,

wherein a top surface of the coupling hole comprises a first top surface portion arranged on a side biased in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the fastening member according to the fastening operation, the first top surface portion being closer to the protruding portion than the other portion of the top surface,

wherein a bottom surface of the coupling hole comprises a second bottom surface portion arranged on a side opposite to the first top surface portion, the second bottom surface portion being closer to the protruding portion than the other portion of the bottom surface.

20. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second treatment apparatus comprises a base disposed on a lower portion of the second treatment apparatus, wherein at least a portion of the upper frame is positioned to overlap a front surface of the base on a rear side thereof,

wherein a front surface of the base has a coupling boss formed thereon,

wherein the upper frame is configured to have a base fastening hole formed at a position corresponding to the coupling boss, and

wherein a fastening member is configured to be arranged through the base coupling hole and

coupled to the coupling boss.

21. The laundry treatment apparatus of claim 20, wherein the first treatment apparatus further comprises a first front panel positioned on a front side, and

wherein the second treatment apparatus further comprises a second front panel positioned on a front side,

the laundry treatment apparatus further comprising:

a control panel disposed between the first front panel and the second front panel and connected to the first treatment apparatus and the second treatment apparatus,

wherein the second treatment apparatus further comprises a lower frame, at least a portion of the a lower frame being positioned between the control panel and the base,

wherein the fastening member is spaced apart from the lower frame and coupled to the base.

22. A method of manufacturing a frame part of a laundry treatment apparatus, the method comprising:

molding a frame part such that a plurality of brackets is formed in a region for formation of a detergent drawer opening;

bending a set portion of the plurality of brackets; and

separating the plurality of brackets from the frame part.

Drawing