Steam generating device and washing machine having the same

Abstract

A steam generating device and a washing machine having the same are disclosed. The steam generating device includes a case for containing water, the case receiving a heater, a water level sensor for sensing a water level of the case, and a receptacle extending downwardly from a top of the case while enclosing the water level sensor, to prevent the water level sensor from malfunctioning, the receptacle having an open bottom directly communicating with an interior of the case, to prevent foreign matter from being accumulated in the receptacle. The structure of the receptacle covering the water level sensor is improved. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the accumulation of foreign matter in the receptacle, and thus to prevent the water level sensor from malfunctioning.

Description

[0001] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application Nos. 10-2006-0058056 and 10-2006-0058058, filed on Jun. 27, 2006, which are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates to a steam generating device and a washing machine having the same, and more particularly to a steam generating device, in which a receptacle for covering a water level sensor has an improved structure capable of reducing accumulation of foreign matter in the receptacle, thereby preventing the water level sensor from malfunctioning, and a washing machine having the steam generating device. [0004] 2. Discussion of the Related Art [0005] Generally, washing machines are classified into a pulsator type, in which a washing operation is carried out using a flow of water generated in accordance with the rotation of a pulsator, and a drum type, in which a washing operation is carried out...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0027] An object of the present invention is to provide a steam generating device, in which a receptacle for covering a water level sensor has an improved structure capable of reducing accumulation of foreign matter in the receptacle, thereby preventing the water level sensor from malfunctioning, and a washing machine having the steam generating device.

[0029] To achieve these objects and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, a steam generating device comprises: a case for containing water, the case receiving a heater; a water level sensor for sensing a water level of the case; and a receptacle extending downwardly from a top of the case while enclosing the water level sensor, to prevent the water level sensor from malfunctioning, the receptacle having an open bottom directly communicating with an interior of the case, to prevent foreign matter from being accumulated in the receptacle.

[0042] In another aspect of the present invention, a washing machine comprises: a body; a tub installed in the body; a drum rotatably installed in the tub; and a steam generating device for supplying steam to the drum, the steam generating device including a case for containing water, the case receiving a heater, a water level sensor for sensing a water level of the case, and a receptacle extending downwardly from a top of the case while enclosing the water level sensor, to prevent the water level sensor from malfunctioning, the receptacle having an open bottom directly communicating with an interior of the case, to prevent foreign matter from being accumulated in the receptacle.

Problems solved by technology

Furthermore, it is difficult to completely prevent generation of vibration during operation of the washing machine.

As a result, there is a problem in that the fuse of the heater 55 may be damaged.

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