Patent Publication Number: US-8984913-B2

Title: Cleaning apparatus and manufacturing and assembly methods for the same

Description:
This application claims the benefit of PCT/KR2006/001374, filed on Apr. 13, 2006, and claims priority to Korean Application Nos. 20-2005-10492, 20-2005-10493, 10-2005-31475, 10-2005-31477, each filed on Apr. 15, 2005, Korean Application Nos. 10-2005-34248, 10-2005-34250, each filed on Apr. 25, 2005, and Korean Application Nos. 10-2005-35761, 10-2005-35750, 10-2005-35763, each filed on Apr. 28, 2005, all of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates to a cleaning apparatus, and more particularly, to an easily interchangeable structure for a front portion of a cleaning apparatus that enables the use of a variety of colors to decorate the front portion according to a user&#39;s preferences, and to manufacturing and assembly methods for the same. 
     BACKGROUND ART 
     Cleaning apparatuses generally include washing machines with a washing function for washing stains and dirt from laundry and dryers that have a drying function for drying wet laundry. 
     In more detail, a washing machine has a cylindrical washing compartment, in which laundry in placed, after which the compartment is rotated to agitate the laundry in water with detergent dissolved in it, in order to remove impurities from the laundry. Washing machines can largely be divided into two categories: pulsator-type washing machines (with vertically-installed wash compartments and a pulsator installed at the bottom), and drum-type washing machines (with horizontally-installed washing compartments that wash laundry by raising and dropping it through rotation). 
     Dryers for drying laundry blow hot air inside to evaporate moisture within the laundry. 
     Drum-type cleaning apparatuses according to the related art generally include a drum for holding laundry, a tub (not applicable to dryers) disposed within the drum for storing wash liquid, a cabinet for enclosing and protecting the drum or tub and forming the exterior of the apparatus, a motor for driving the drum, and a front portion installed on the front of the cabinet. The front portion has a control panel with various buttons, a door for opening and closing a portal to insert and extract laundry, and a front panel installed to allow the door to pivot and to cover the front portion of the cabinet. 
     Here, in the case of cleaning apparatuses according to the related art, the front portion is given a permanent color when the product is manufactured. That is, the front portion is painted in the same color as the cabinet. In order to replace the front panel, the entire apparatus must be disassembled or replaced. 
     Also, in washing machines or dryers according to the related art, the front panel is formed of a metal material, and is thus expensive to replace and puts a financial burden on the consumer. 
     Additionally, in cleaning apparatuses according to the related art, the control panel and the cabinet cover may be scratched, dented, or otherwise damaged during transport or use of the cleaning apparatus, so that the finish of the front portion is diminished. Also, after a long period of use, a user may grow tired of the color of the front of the cleaning apparatus. 
     DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION 
     Technical Problem 
     To solve the above problem, the present invention provides a cleaning apparatus that allows a consumer to easily change the color of the front portion of the apparatus (whether it be a washing machine, dryer, or other cleaning apparatus), and manufacturing and assembly methods for the cleaning apparatus. 
     Another object of the present invention is to provide a cleaning apparatus that can satisfy a variety of consumer tastes by allowing the front portion thereof to be replaced with a variety of colors, patterns, or designs without changing the other parts of the product&#39;s exterior in the manufacturing process. The present invention is especially applicable to built-in cleaning apparatuses that only have their front portions exposed to the outside. 
     A further object of the present invention is to provide a cleaning apparatus that allows only a section of its outer perimeter that is damaged during transport or assembly to be replaced without having to replace the entire outer portion, in order to facilitate repairs and reduce repair costs. 
     A still further object of the present invention is to provide a cleaning apparatus that allows easy assembly of its front portion, and an assembling method of the front portion of the cleaning apparatus. 
     Technical Solution 
     According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cleaning apparatus including: a cabinet opened at a surface thereof; a front panel installed on a side of the cabinet, and including a cabinet cover forming a laundry inserting hole and an outer cover coupled to a front surface of the cabinet cover; a control panel coupled to the front panel; and a fringe frame covering at least one edge portion of the front panel and the control panel. 
     According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cleaning apparatus including: a drum; a cabinet having the drum within and being opened at one side thereof; a cabinet cover coupled at a front of the cabinet, and made of a metal material that forms a hole within for inserting laundry; an outer cover coupled to the cabinet cover, and made of a non-metal that forms a hole within for inserting laundry; and a fringe panel formed at a front perimeter of the cabinet. 
     According to still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cleaning apparatus including: a cabinet forming an exterior thereof; a cabinet cover mounted on a front of the cabinet; an outer cover coupled to a front surface of the cabinet cover and made of a heat resistant plastic having a slippery surface due to being made using a superfinished mold; a fringe frame including a side frame covering side surfaces of the cabinet and outer covers, a lower frame mounted at bottoms of the cabinet and outer covers, and an upper frame mounted on a top of the side frame; and a control panel coupled to the cover, and protected on a perimeter thereof by the upper frame. 
     According to a yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cleaning apparatus including: a cabinet opened at a side thereof; an upper panel coupled at a top of the opened side; a lower panel coupled at a bottom of the opened side; a cover member including a cabinet cover with an upper end and a lower end respectively coupled to the upper panel and the lower panel, and an outer cover coupled to a front surface of the cabinet cover; a control panel mounted on a top of the cover member; and a fringe frame including a side frame installed on a side surface of the cover member, a lower frame installed at a bottom of the cover member, and an upper frame surrounding a perimeter of the control panel. 
     According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cleaning apparatus including: a cabinet; a front panel including a cabinet cover coupled at a front surface of the cabinet and an outer cover coupled at a front surface of the cabinet cover and capable of being painted to provide a visually pleasing exterior of the cleaning apparatus; and a door pivotably coupled to the front panel. 
     According to a still further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a manufacturing method for a cleaning apparatus including: manufacturing a cabinet cover with a hole for inserting laundry using press manufacturing and forming manufacturing for reinforcement; injection molding an outer cover with paintable ABS material that does not corrode when painted; spraying a paint of a predetermined color onto a front surface of the outer cover; drying the painted outer cover at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined duration; and installing the outer cover on a front surface of the cabinet cover. 
     According to an even further aspect of the present invention, there is provided an assembly method of a cleaning apparatus including: coupling an upper panel and a lower panel to a cabinet; performing a front panel assembly by coupling an outer cover to a front of a cabinet cover; coupling a fringe frame to a edge portion of the front panel; coupling the front panel to the cabinet; and mounting a control panel on an upper portion of the front panel. 
     According to an additional aspect of the present invention, there is provided an assembly method of a cleaning apparatus including: coupling an outer cover to a front surface of a cabinet cover; coupling a side frame to side surfaces of the cabinet cover and the outer cover; coupling a lower frame to bottom surfaces of the cabinet cover and the outer cover; coupling the cabinet cover to a cabinet; coupling an upper frame to the side frame and the cabinet; and inserting a control panel in an inner space of the upper frame. 
     Advantageous Effects 
     An advantage of the cleaning apparatus and the manufacturing and assembly methods thereof according to the present invention is that it allows a consumer to conveniently change the color of the front portion of a washing machine, dryer, or other cleaning apparatus. 
     Another advantage of the cleaning apparatus and the manufacturing and assembly methods thereof according to the present invention is that it allows a variety of consumer tastes to be satisfied by changing only the front portion of the cleaning apparatus to different colors, patterns, or designs, without having to change the entire exterior. 
     A further advantage of the cleaning apparatus and the manufacturing and assembly methods thereof according to the present invention is that it allows replacement of only the section of the cleaning apparatus&#39; outer perimeter that is damaged during transport or assembly without having to replace the entire outer portion, in order to facilitate repairs and reduce repair costs. 
     A still further object of the present invention is to provide a cleaning apparatus with a highly-finished edge portion for a high quality look and high value-added. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded perspective view of a front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  is a frontal perspective view of a cabinet cover of a front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a rear perspective view of the cabinet cover in  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 5  is a frontal perspective view of an outer cover of a front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a rear perspective view of the outer cover in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a frontal perspective view of an upper frame of a fringe frame of a front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a rear perspective view of the upper frame in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 9  is a frontal perspective view of a side frame of a fringe frame of a front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a rear perspective view of the side frame in  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a frontal perspective view of a lower frame of a fringe frame of a front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a rear perspective view of the lower frame in  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 13  is a frontal view of a control panel according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a rear perspective view of the control panel in  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 15  is a bottom perspective view of the control panel in  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a cabinet on which a front panel is installed according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a sectional view showing the assembly of a lower portion of a cabinet cover with a lower panel according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 18  is a sectional view showing the assembly of an outer cover to a cabinet cover according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 19  is a sectional view showing another assembling of an outer cover to the front of a cabinet cover according to another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 20  is a schematic sectional view showing an assembled structure of the front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 21  is a sectional view of the cleaning apparatus in  FIG. 1  taken along line I-I′. 
         FIG. 22  is a sectional view of the cleaning apparatus in  FIG. 1  taken along line II-II′. 
         FIG. 23  is a side sectional view showing an upper frame and control panel coupled to an upper panel according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective view of a cleaning apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 25  is a sectional view of the cleaning apparatus in  FIG. 24  taken along line III-III′. 
     
    
    
     BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. 
     To explain the cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, a drum washing machine will be used as a representative example. Here, the present invention covers not only drum washing machines, but also dryers for drying laundry, and even dishwashers. 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention. 
     In the first embodiment, a drum washing machine will be used as a representative example of cleaning apparatuses to which the present invention applies. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , a drum washing machine  1  having a front portion according to the present invention includes a cabinet  2  forming the exterior of the product with an opened front end, a top cover  3  covering the top surface of the cabinet, and a front unit  10  installed on the open front portion of the cabinet  2 . 
     In more detail, the front unit  10  includes a front panel  4 , a door  6  pivotably installed at the approximate center of the front panel  4  for inserting and extracting laundry, a control panel  7  mounted above the front panel  4  (and having various buttons for inputting wash settings, a power button, etc.), and a fringe frame  5  covering the outer perimeter of the front panel  4  and the control panel  7 . Also, a detergent box  8  is installed on a side of the control panel  7  for putting detergent in. A drum for receiving laundry and a tub for enclosing the exterior of the drum are installed inside the cabinet  2 . A drive motor is installed behind the drum for spinning the drum during the wash course. 
     To describe the operation of the above-structured drum washing machine, a user first opens the door  6 , inserts laundry into the drum, and closes the door  6 . Then, detergent is put into the detergent box  8 , after which wash commands are inputted and the start button is pressed. Wash water then flows through the detergent box to mix with the detergent therein, and enters the inside of the drum. When a preset amount of wash liquid (the mixture of water and detergent) fills the drum, the water supply is closed and the drum begins to rotate, starting the wash cycle. When the wash cycle is completed, a rinse cycle, and then a spin cycle are carried out to complete the wash course. 
     Below, a more detailed description of the front unit  10  of the cleaning apparatus  1  will be provided. 
       FIG. 2  is an exploded perspective view of a front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , the front unit  10  mounted to the cabinet  2  of the cleaning apparatus  1  according to the present invention includes a rectangularly shaped front panel  4  covering the open front surface of the cabinet  2 , a control panel  7  mounted above the front panel  4 , and a fringe frame  5  enclosing the edges of the front panel  4  and the control panel  7 . 
     In further detail, the front panel  4  includes a cabinet cover  42  whose rear perimeter is installed on the front perimeter of the cabinet  2 , and an outer cover  41  installed on the front of the cabinet cover  42  and forming the exterior of the cleaning apparatus  1 . The rear perimeter of the cabinet cover  42  is installed on fastening members on the front perimeter of the cabinet  2 , so that the cabinet cover  42  functions as a structural reinforcing agent for retaining the shape of the cabinet  2  to prevent denting thereof. 
     Here, when the cabinet  2  is open at its rear and has the front panel  4  installed at its front, the cabinet cover  42  is integrally connected with either side of the cabinet  2 , so that a separate cabinet cover member does not need to be mounted. In other words, only the outer cover  41  may be mounted on the front surface of the cabinet  2 . 
     The outer cover  41 , as a plastic injection molded cover applied with a predetermined color, functions as an interior plate for decorating the front exterior of the cleaning apparatus  1 . The outer cover  41  may also easily be removed from the cabinet cover  42  and freely interchanged with a color that a user prefers. Also, the outer cover  41  is formed through plastic injection molding, so that its material cost is less than that of the cabinet cover  42 . Thus, replacement of the outer cover  41  is not expensive. 
     The fringe frame  5  includes a lower frame  53  installed at the lower end of the front panel  4 , a side frame  52  installed on either side of the front panel  5 , and an upper frame  51  installed on the upper edge portion of the control panel  7 . 
     Specifically, the fringe frame  5  may be made in 4 separate components to surround the front panel  4  and the control panel  7 , as described above, or in two parts, where the side panels  52  are integrally formed with the lower panel  7  to form a ‘u’ shape. In addition, the upper frame  51 , side frames  52 , and lower frame  53  may be integrally formed to create a rectangular overall shape. In other words, the shape and number of pieces forming the fringe frame  5  are not limited to those in the present embodiment, and may adopt various forms and have different numbers of assembled pieces, which falls within the scope of the present invention. 
     Here, the fringe frame  5  is installed around the outer edges of the front panel  4  and the control panel  7 , so that the contacting region between the cabinet cover  42  and the outer cover  41  (at the outer edges thereof) is concealed. Therefore, the front unit  10  has an edge that is clean and has a high-quality finish, due to the fringe frame  5 . 
     The assembly method and process for the various components which compose the front unit  10  will now be described in detail with reference to the diagrams. 
       FIG. 3  is a frontal perspective view of a cabinet cover of a front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, and  FIG. 4  is a rear perspective view of the cabinet cover in  FIG. 3 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , a cabinet cover  42  according to the present invention is installed on the exposed front surface of the cabinet  2 , as described above. 
     In detail, the cabinet cover  42  has its four side edges bent or curved rearward and bent again at an angle of approximately 90° to form a guide rib. The guide rib includes an upper guide rib  424  bent upwards from the top end of the cabinet cover  42 , a side guide rib  429  bent inwards from either side edge of the cabinet cover  42 , and a lower guide rib  428  formed on the lower surface of the cabinet cover  42  and bent upwards therefrom. A bolting hole  424   a  is formed in the upper guide rib  424  for inserting a fastening member through. The fastening member that inserts through the bolting hole  424   a  firmly fastens the cabinet cover  42  to the cabinet  2 . Also, bolting holes  429   a  and  428   a  are respectively formed in the side guide rib  429  and the lower guide rib  428  to insert fastening members through. 
     The end portions on either side of the upper guide rib  424  have upper frame fastening holes  424   b  formed therein. Specifically, a fastening member that inserts through the upper frame fastening hole  424   b  simultaneously couples the cabinet cover  42  to the upper frame  51  and the cabinet  2 . A detailed description is provided below. 
     Moreover, the control panel  7  is mounted on the curved surface at the top of the cabinet cover  42 , and the side frame  52  is installed on the bent surfaces on either side thereof. The lower frame  52  is coupled to the bent surface at the lower end of the cabinet cover  42 . A hook insert hole  423  is formed in the curved surfaces on either side of the cabinet cover  42  for inserting a hook formed on the side frame  52 . An upper rib insert hole  426  is formed in the curved surface at the top of the cabinet cover  42  for inserting a coupling rib  416  (in  FIG. 6 ) formed on the upper portion of the outer cover  41 . The upper rib insert hole  426  may be formed symmetrically on either side of a line dividing the cabinet cover  42  vertically in two. A drain hole  425  is formed at a position a predetermined distance to the rear of the upper rib insert hole  426 . Accordingly, even if water vapor enters the front unit  10  and condenses during a wash cycle, it can flow into the cabinet  2  through the drain hole  425 , preventing it from entering the door hinge mechanism or the door switch. 
     A door mount  421  is formed to recess a predetermined distance and width into the front surface of the cabinet cover  42 . The door mount  421  is located where the door is, is shaped in a round shape reflecting that of the door, and forms an open hole through the middle for inserting and extracting laundry through. The edge of the open hole is bent forward, and the end of the bent section is bent again radially to form a gasket mounting rib  432 . The shape of the gasket mounting rib  432  can be readily seen in  FIG. 18 . In detail, the gasket mounting rib  432  is formed as shown, so that a gasket may be inserted in the outer perimeter thereof so that the gasket does not fall out. 
     A plurality of center hook insert holes  431  are formed at a predetermined interval around the inner circumference of the door mount  421 . A plurality of hooks  417  (in  FIG. 6 ) protruding from the rear surface of the outer cover  41  insert in the center hook insert holes  431 . By inserting the plurality of hooks formed on the outer cover  41  into the center hook insert holes  431 , the cabinet cover  42  and the outer cover  41  may be more tightly coupled. That is, the center hook insert hole  431  is cut and bent using lancing processing on a portion of the inner perimeter of the door mount  421 . The cut and bent extending tabs are hooked on the hooks  417  of the outer cover  41 . 
     A plurality of recesses  422  are formed a predetermined depth in the cabinet cover  42  recessed toward the rear. These recesses  422  are for mounting fastening bosses  415  (in  FIG. 6 ) protruding a predetermined distance from the rear surface of the outer cover  41 , so that the outer cover  41  and the cabinet cover  42  are prevented from being spaced apart by means of the fastening bosses  415 . 
     At least one lower rib insert hole  430  is formed at a predetermined interval at the lower end of the front surface of the cabinet cover  42 . In more detail, the lower rib insert hole  430  has a lower rib  418  (in  FIG. 5 ) protruding at a predetermined interval from the lower rear surface of the outer cover  41  and inserted therethrough. A bolting hole  427  is formed in the lower bent surface of the cabinet cover  42 , and is coupled to the lower frame  53  by a fastening member. A supporting slot  428   c  is formed at a predetermined interval along the bent surface at the bottom of the cabinet cover  42 . A supporting rib  221  that protrudes toward the front of the lower panel  22  (to be described later) is inserted in the supporting slot  428   c . The process of inserting the supporting rib  221  in the supporting slot  428   c  will be explained below with reference to the diagrams. 
       FIG. 5  is a frontal perspective view of an outer cover of a front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, and  FIG. 6  is a rear perspective view of the outer cover in  FIG. 5 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , an outer cover  4  according to the present invention is mounted to the front surface of the cabinet cover  42 , and is formed of a plastic injection molded material having a predetermined color. 
     Specifically, the outer cover  41  is first formed through plastic injection molding, after which it is sprayed with paint on its front surface and then dried. 
     In further detail, erosion due to painting of the plastic material should be obviated. Moreover, because the outer cover  41  is manufactured using a relatively large mold, the plastic used to form the outer cover  41  must have favorable flow characteristics during injection molding. Should erosion result from painting, or flow during injection molding be unfavorable, the surface will not be smooth, and an even layer of paint cannot be obtained with painting. When considering such factors, ABS resin such as GP35 manufactured by BASF may be used. 
     Regarding the mold used for injection molding of the outer cover  41 , the portion used to form the front surface of outer cover  41  may have superfinishing treatment so that the front surface of the outer cover  41  can maintain a polish and an even application of paint. 
     To paint the front surface of the outer cover  41  manufactured through the injection molding process, a paint with an acrylic base resin and a predetermined color is prepared. To create a luster, a metal powder may be added, such as an aluminum powder used in pigments. For mass-production, a spray-on application may be used, for which a solvent may be used in order to reduce the viscosity of the paint. A good solvent to use is isopropylene alcohol. 
     The outer cover  41  covered with the paint is dried over a predetermined duration at a predetermined temperature. 
     In further detail, the outer cover  41  may be dried at a temperature of 60°-70° C. for a 40 minute duration. If the paint is dried at a temperature below 60° C., it will not adhere well to the surface and is prone to peeling off when rubbed against other objects. Conversely, if a drying temperature above 70° C. is used, the outer cover  41  will be prone to deformation. Therefore, a material having a heat resistance that prevents deformation thereof at temperatures over 60° C. may be used. 
     In still further detail, in order to mount the door  6  on the front of the outer cover  41 , a door mount  411  is recessed a predetermined depth therein. An open hole is formed within the door mount  411  for inserting and extracting laundry. Around the rear of the perimeter of the open hole, a plurality of center hooks  417  are protrusively formed to insert into center hook insert holes  431  formed on the cabinet cover  42 . Side frame fastening tabs  414  for coupling with the side frame  52  are formed to protrude from the side of the outer cover  41 . At least one frame rib insert hole  413  is formed between the side frame fastening tabs  414 , for inserting a frame rib  526  (in  FIG. 9 ) protruding from the inner surface of the side frame  52 . A rib insert hole  412  is formed at a predetermined interval on the upper surface of the outer cover  41 , to insert an outer cover fastening rib  75  (in  FIG. 15 ) protruding from the bottom surface of the control panel  7 . 
     At least one upper rib  416  is formed at the rear of the upper portion of the outer cover  41 . In detail, the upper rib  416  is inserted into the upper rib insert hole  426  formed on the upper surface of the cabinet cover  42 . The process of inserting the upper rib  416  in the upper rib insert hole  426  can be seen in detail in  FIG. 18 . 
     A plurality of fastening bosses  415  with a predetermined length are formed at predetermined locations on the rear surface of the outer cover  41 . Specifically, the fastening bosses  415  contact the recesses  422  recessed a predetermined depth in the front surface of the cabinet cover  42 . A fastening member passes through from the rear surface of the cabinet cover  42  and inserts in a hole formed in the center of the recess  422 . Here, the recess  422  is recessed by almost the same distance as the length of the fastening boss  415 , so that the outer cover  41  can couple firmly with the front surface of the cabinet cover  42 . The fastening member inserts within the fastening boss  415 , to firmly couple the cabinet cover  42  and the outer cover  41 . As described above, a plurality of lower ribs  418  protrude at the lower end of the outer cover  41  and insert into the lower rib insert holes  430  formed at the bottom of the cabinet cover  42 . 
     Also, ribs  419  formed on the rear surface of the outer cover  41  are latticed. 
     In detail, to prevent vibration and noise when the outer cover  41  contacts the cabinet cover  42 , the contacting surface between the outer cover  41  and the cabinet cover  42  should be minimal, so that a contacting protrusion  419   a  is formed to protrude from the rib  419  to contact the front surface of the cabinet cover  42 . To prevent water from accumulating between the front of the cabinet cover  42  and the rib  419  and resulting corrosion of the cabinet cover  42 , the rib  419  has drain grooves  419   b  formed therein. 
       FIG. 7  is a frontal perspective view of an upper frame of a fringe frame of a front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, and  FIG. 8  is a rear perspective view of the upper frame in  FIG. 7 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , an upper frame  51  that is a component of the fringe frame  5  according to the present invention is formed in an inverted ‘u’ shape in order to cover the upper and side edges of the control panel  7 . 
     Specifically, the upper frame  51  includes a cabinet cover fastening tab  511  extending a predetermined distance from the rear surface on either side thereof, a control panel fastening tab  513  extending a predetermined distance downward from the upper rear portion thereof, and a fixing rib  515  having a predetermined length and width extending from the bottom on either side thereof. Also, a first rib  516  is formed to protrude downward a predetermined distance from the rear upper portion of the upper frame  51 , and a second rib  517  is formed at a predetermined distance from the first rib  516  to protrude downward a predetermined distance from the rear upper portion of the upper frame  51 . The first and second ribs  516  and  517  insert into insert holes formed in the upper surface of the upper panel (which will be described later), so that the upper frame  51  is fixedly mounted to the upper panel. 
     In further detail, the cabinet cover fastening tab  511  couples to the upper guide rib  424  that is bent on the upper portion of the cabinet cover  42 . In other words, the upper frame fastening hole  424   b  formed in either side ends of the upper guide rib  424  and the fastening hole  512  formed in the cabinet cover fastening tab  511  are fastened together by means of an inserted screw or other fastening member. 
     Additionally, the control panel fastening tab  513  is coupled to a fastening boss  73  (in  FIG. 14 ) protruding from the rear surface of the control panel  7 . The fixing rib  515  extending from the lower portion on either side of the upper frame  51  inserts in a fixing rib insert hole  524  (in  FIG. 9 ) formed in an upper surface of the side frame  52 . That is, in the above assembly process, the upper frame  51  is coupled with the side frame  52  and control panel  7  as well as the cabinet cover  42 . 
     In further detail, the side of the upper frame  51  has side surfaces with a predetermined thickness extending from front to back at the location where the detergent box  8  is installed, in order to guide the movement of the detergent box  8  when it is inserted or pulled out. 
     By installing the upper frame  51 , the front edge portion of the top cover  3  covering the upper portion of the cabinet  2  is coupled firmly against the rear surface at the top of the upper frame  51 . 
       FIG. 9  is a frontal perspective view of a side frame of a fringe frame of a front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, and  FIG. 10  is a rear perspective view of the side frame in  FIG. 9 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9 and 10 , the side frame  52  according to the present invention is formed in a predetermined width and length to cover the side edges of the cabinet cover  42  and the outer cover  41 . By covering the joining portion of the cabinet cover  42  and the outer cover  41 , a clean outer appearance is achieved. 
     In detail, the side frame  52  includes a frame body  521  that is rectangular in shape, a frame front  522  bent at a predetermined curvature from the front end of the frame body  521 , an upper frame mounting tab  523  bent horizontally from the upper end of the side frame  52 , and a standing rib  527  extending a predetermined length from the lower end of the side frame  52 . 
     In further detail, a fixing rib insert hole  524  is formed on the upper frame mounting tab  523  to insert the fixing rib  515  formed at the bottom end of the upper frame  51 . Also, a plurality of frame ribs  526  having a predetermined width and length are spaced a predetermined distance apart on the end of the frame front  522 . Here, the frame rib  526  is inserted in the frame rib insert hole  413  formed in the side surface of the outer cover  41 . 
     At least one frame hook  525  protrudes at a predetermined interval from the rear inner side of the frame body  521 . That is, the frame hook  525  inserts in the frame hook insert hole  423  formed in the side of the cabinet cover  42 . 
     An insert recess  528  is formed in the inner surface of the frame front  522  in order to insert the side frame fastening tab  414  formed on the side surface of the outer cover  41 . 
     In the above structure, the upper end of the side frame  52  is coupled with the upper frame  51 , its lower end is coupled with the lower frame  453 , and its inner surface is coupled with the outer cover  41  and the cabinet cover  42 . Also, the side frame  52  is coupled to the components without the use of screws or other fastening members. 
       FIG. 11  is a frontal perspective view of a lower frame of a fringe frame of a front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, and  FIG. 12  is a rear perspective view of the lower frame in  FIG. 11 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11 and 12 , a lower frame  53  of the fringe frame  5  according to the present invention includes an outer cover mount  532  on its upper surface for mounting the outer cover  41  on, a cabinet cover mount  531  extending a predetermined distance rearward from the outer cover mount  532 , and a standing rib insert slot  534  formed in the upper surface on either end, for inserting the standing rib  527  of the side frame  52 . A plurality of supporting rib receiving notches  535  are recessed a predetermined depth forward at the rear end of the lower frame  53 . Here, the supporting rib receiving notches  535  are formed to prevent a supporting rib  221  (in  FIG. 16 , to be later described) from interfering with the lower frame  53 . 
     Specifically, at least one bolting hole  533  is formed on the cabinet cover mount  531 , so that the lower frame  53  and the cabinet cover  42  can be coupled with a fastening member. In more detail, a screw or other fastening member inserts through the bolting hole  533  and the bolting hole  427  formed in the lower end of the cabinet cover  42 . Thus, the lower frame  53  is coupled to the cabinet cover  42  by means of the screw or other fastening member, and both its end portions are assembled with the side frame  52 . 
     The fringe frame  5  that covers the edges of the front panel  4  and the control panel  7  prevents the front panel  4  and the control panel  7  from being damaged due to external forces. Supposing that a shock is applied from the outside, only a portion of the fringe frame  5  is damaged, protecting the front panel  4 . Also, only the damaged portion of the fringe frame  5  needs to be replaced, not only facilitating repair, but also reducing repair costs. 
       FIG. 13  is a frontal view of a control panel according to the present invention,  FIG. 14  is a rear perspective view of the control panel in  FIG. 13 , and  FIG. 15  is a bottom perspective view of the control panel in  FIG. 13 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 13 through 15 , a control panel  7  according to the present invention is enclosed on its upper and side surfaces by the upper frame  51 , and its lower portion is coupled to the upper surface of the front panel  4 . 
     Specifically, the control panel  7  includes an input section  71  on one side of a front thereof with various controls, and a detergent box section  72  on the other end of the front section for inserting the detergent box into. 
     In further detail, the input section  71  includes a power button  711 , a dial knob insert hole  713  for inserting a dial knob that inputs wash commands, a start button  712 , a display  714 , and setting buttons  715  for inputting wash settings. 
     Installed at the back of the control panel  7  is a PCB (printed circuit board) for storing and implementing the commands inputted through the input section  71 . 
     In more detail, a PCB fastening boss protrudes a predetermined length from the rear surface of the control panel  7 , in order to mount the PCB thereon. An upper frame fastening boss  73  is formed to protrude from the rear upper end of the control panel  7 , so that the upper frame fastening boss  73  is pressed against the front surface of an upper frame fastening tab  214   a  (in  FIG. 16 ) formed on the upper panel  21 . Here, the control frame fastening tab  513  formed on the upper frame  51  is pressed against the rear surface of the upper frame fastening tab  214   a . Accordingly, after a screw or other fastening member inserts from the rear to the front of the fastening hole  514  formed on the control panel fastening tab  513 , it is inserted into the upper frame fastening boss  73 , so that the control panel  7  and the upper frame  51  are assembled integrally with the upper panel  21 .  FIG. 23  shows the above assembly structure in more detail. 
     An outer cover fixing rib  75  is formed at a predetermined interval on the front surface of the control panel  7 . The outer cover fixing rib  75  inserts into the rib insert hole  412  formed in the upper surface of the outer cover  41 . Thus, when the control panel  7  is mounted on the outer cover  41 , there is no oscillating thereof due to external forces. 
     Also, a panel hook  76  is formed on the rear surface at the top of the control panel  7  and is inserted into a hole  213   a  (in  FIG. 16 ) to be described later, so that the control panel  7  does not move with respect to the upper panel. A dispenser fastening boss  77  is formed to protrude from the rear surface of the control panel  7 . A fastening member is inserted from the front of the control panel  7  into the dispenser fastening boss  77 . The fastening member passing through the dispenser fastening boss  77  is inserted into a fastening hole (not shown) formed at the front surface of the dispenser installed inside the cabinet  2  for holding the detergent box. That is, the control panel  7  is coupled to the dispenser to prevent movement thereof. 
       FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a cabinet on which a front panel is installed according to the present invention. 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , the cabinet  2  according to the present invention includes a main body  23  recessed in a rough ‘n’ shape when viewed in a horizontal section, an upper panel connecting both ends of the main body  23 , and a lower panel  22 . 
     In detail, the cabinet  2  has either an open front where the front panel  4  is installed and has its side and rear surfaces integrally formed, or has its side surfaces integrally formed with the front panel  4  with the rear opened. 
     The cabinet  2  may have separate components assembled to compose its four surfaces, an opening formed in one of the surfaces for inputting laundry, and the front panel  4  installed on the surface in which the opening is formed. 
     Also, built-in type cleaning apparatuses may not include the side or rear cabinets. 
     Here, the shape of the cabinet  2  is not limited to those described in the above embodiments, but may adopt a variety of shapes and still fall within the scope of the present invention. 
     The upper panel  21  installed on the front surface at the top of the main body  23  includes a detergent box insert hole  211  formed at one side thereof for inserting the detergent box therein, an electric wire insert hole  212  cut a predetermined size in the approximate center of the upper panel  21  for inserting wires connected to the control panel  7  through, a hook insert hole  213   a  formed in the upper edge of the upper panel  21  for inserting the panel hook  76  formed on the control panel  7 , and a hook latch tab  213   b  for latching the hook  76  and preventing it from detaching. 
     The upper panel  21  also includes at least one upper frame fastening tab  214   a  extending a predetermined distance downward from the upper edge of the upper panel, and a first and a second rib insert hole  215  and  216  formed on the upper edge of the upper panel. Here, the first and second ribs  516  and  517  formed on the rear surface of the upper frame  51  are inserted into the first and second rib insert holes  215  and  216 . 
     In detail, the fastening hole  214   b  is formed on the end of the upper frame fastening tab  214   a , for inserting a fastening member through. The control panel fastening tab  513  of the upper frame  51  is disposed at the rear surface of the upper frame fastening tab  214   a . The upper frame fastening boss  73  protruding from the rear surface of the control panel  7  is disposed on the front surface of the upper frame fastening tab  214   a . A fastening member passes through the control panel fastening tab  513  and the upper frame fastening tab  214   a  and inserts in the upper frame fastening boss  73 . 
     The upper panel  21  also includes a cabinet cover fastening hole  217  on the bottom at either end thereof for fastening to the cabinet cover  42 , and an upper frame fastening hole  218  for fastening with the upper frame  51 . Here, an upper frame fastening hole  424   b  formed on the cabinet cover  42  is disposed at the front surface of the upper frame fastening hole  218 . The cabinet cover fastening tab  511  formed on the upper frame  51  is disposed at the front surface of the upper frame fastening hole  424   b . In other words, the fastening hole  512  formed in the cabinet cover fastening tab  511  is disposed in front of the upper frame fastening hole  424   b . Accordingly, the upper frame  51 , cabinet cover  42 , and upper panel  21  are integrally coupled by means of a fastening member. 
     The panel hook  76  formed on the rear surface of the control panel  7  inserts in the hook insert hole  213   a  formed in the upper portion of the upper panel  21 , and the upper surface of the panel hook  76  hooks onto the hook latch tab  213   b . Thus, the control panel  7  couples at one end to the upper panel  21 , where the panel hook  76  does not detach easily. Also, the first and second ribs  516  and  517  protruding from the upper rear surface of the upper frame  51  insert respectively into the first and second rib insert holes  215  and  216  formed on the upper edge surface of the upper panel  21 , so that the upper frame  51  is coupled to the upper panel  21  and does not move. 
     The lower panel  22  coupled at the bottom of the main body  23  has at least one supporting rib  221  formed at a predetermined interval at the bottom thereof. 
     In detail, the supporting rib  221  is cut in a predetermined size from a portion of the lower panel  22 , and the cut portion is then bent forward at a predetermined angle through lancing processing, as shown in the  FIG. 16 . The supporting rib  221  is inserted into the supporting slot  428   c  formed in the bent surface of the lower portion of the cabinet cover  42 , as described above. 
       FIG. 17  is a sectional view showing the assembly of a lower portion of a cabinet cover with a lower panel according to the present invention. 
     Referring to  FIG. 17 , a lower portion of the cabinet cover  42  according to the present invention is fastened by means of the supporting rib  221  of the lower panel  22 . 
     In detail, the supporting rib  21  is bent in a forward and upward shape, where the upwardly bent portion is bent slightly to incline forward. Thus, in order to insert the supporting rib  21  in the supporting slot  428   c , the upper portion of the cabinet cover  42  is first inclined forward at a predetermined angle. In this state, the end of the supporting rib  221  is inserted into the supporting slot  428   c , and then the upper portion of the cabinet cover  42  is pushed and rotated to press against the upper panel  21  of the cabinet  2 . Thus, the lower surface of the cabinet cover  42  mounts to the upper surface of the supporting rib  221 , and the lower guide rib  428  of the cabinet cover  42  presses against the front surface of the lower panel  22 . 
       FIG. 18  is a sectional view showing the assembly of an outer cover to a cabinet cover according to the present invention. 
     Referring to  FIG. 18 , an outer cover  41  according to the present invention is first coupled at its upper surface to the upper surface of the cabinet cover  42 , after which other portions are coupled. 
     In detail, a plurality of upper ribs  416 , spaced a predetermined distance apart from each other, are formed on the upper edge surface of the outer cover  41  to extend downward. The upper ribs  416  extend vertically and then curve gently or bend abruptly rearward. Thus, in order to fasten the outer cover  41  to the cabinet cover  42 , the lower end of the outer cover  41  is lifted slightly. Then, the curved portion of the upper rib  416  is inserted into the upper rib insert hole  426 . Next, the outer cover  41  is rotated and pressed against the front of the cabinet cover  42 . In this way, the upper rib  416  is completely inserted into the upper rib insert hole  426 . 
       FIG. 19  is a sectional view showing another assembling of an outer cover to the front of a cabinet cover according to another embodiment of the present invention. 
     Referring to  FIG. 19 , a boss-shaped protrusion  417   a  is formed instead of the center hook  417  protruding from the rear surface of the outer cover  41 , and a burring hole  431   a  is formed in the cabinet cover  42 , for inserting the protrusion  417   a  into. 
     In detail, the diameter of the protrusion  417   a  may narrow toward the end, and the burring hole  431   a , like the shape of the protrusion  417   a , may narrow in diameter toward the rear. As a result, not only can the protrusion  417   a  be easily inserted into the burring hole  431   a , but it does not easily disengage from the burring hole  431   a  after assembly. One method of increasing the strength of assembly of the two parts is to form the burring hole  431   a  to be the same or slightly smaller in diameter than the protrusion  417   a  to enable press fitting. 
       FIG. 20  is a schematic sectional view showing an assembled structure of the front portion of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention. 
     Referring to  FIG. 20 , the fringe frame  5  surrounds the edges of the front panel  4  and the control panel  7 , and the different components of the fringe frame  5  are tightly coupled together. 
     In detail, the fringe frame  5  protects the sides with the side frames  52  that enclose both sides of the front panel  4 . Coupled above the side frame  52  is the upper frame  51 , and coupled therebelow is the lower frame  53 . The fixing rib  515  protruding from the bottom of the upper frame  51  inserts into the upper surface of the side frame  52 , so that the pieces do not move. The standing rib  527  protruding from the bottom of the side frame  52  inserts into the upper surface of the lower frame  53 , so that the pieces do not move. 
       FIG. 21  is a sectional view of the cleaning apparatus in  FIG. 1  taken along line I-I′. 
     Referring to  FIG. 21 , the side frame  52  according to the present invention is integrally coupled with the outer cover  41  and the cabinet cover  42 , so that the sides of the outer cover  41  and the cabinet cover  42  are concealed. 
     In further detail, the frame rib  526  of the side frame  52  inserts into the frame rib insert hole  413  formed on the side surface of the outer cover  41 , so that the side frame  52  is fixed to the outer cover  41 . The cabinet cover  42  is firmly coupled to the rear of the outer cover  41 . 
       FIG. 22  is a sectional view of the cleaning apparatus in  FIG. 1  taken along line II-II′. 
     Referring to  FIG. 22 , the side frame fastening tab  414  formed on the side surface of the outer cover  41  inserts into the insert hole  528  formed at the front of the side frame  52 . The frame hook  525  protruding from the inner rear surface of the side frame  52  inserts in the frame hook insert hole  423  formed on the side surface of the cabinet cover  42 . 
     In the above assembly configuration, the cabinet cover  42  and the outer cover  41  couple integrally to the side cover  52 . 
       FIG. 23  is a side sectional view showing an upper frame and control panel coupled to an upper panel according to the present invention. 
     Referring to  FIG. 23 , the upper panel  21  couples to the top of the open front surface of the cabinet  2 , and the upper frame  51  couples to the front surface of the upper panel  21 . The control panel  7  couples to the bottom of the upper panel  21 . 
     Specifically, the control panel fastening tab  513  extending from the rear surface at the top of the upper frame  51  is pressed against the rear surface of the upper frame fastening tab  214   a  formed on the upper panel  21 . The fastening boss  73  of the control panel  7  is pressed against the front surface of the upper frame fastening tab  214   a . A screw or similar fastening member is inserted from the rear through to the front of the control panel fastening tab  513 . 
     Accordingly, one fastening member integrally couples the upper panel  21 , upper frame  51 , and control panel  7 , so that assembly is ameliorated and fewer assembly components are used. 
       FIG. 24  is a perspective view of a cleaning apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention, and  FIG. 25  is a sectional view of the cleaning apparatus in  FIG. 24  taken along line III-III′. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 24 and 25 , a door  6  is pivotably coupled at the front of the front panel  4  of a cleaning apparatus  1  according to the present invention. The door  6  is formed at roughly the center of the front panel  4  and opens and closes a laundry inserting hole. 
     In detail, the door  6  includes a door frame  61 , a transparent door glass  62  coupled within the door frame  61 , a hook  63  protruding from an edge of the door frame  61 , and a door hinge  64  coupled on the end opposite to the hook  63 . 
     In further detail, the door hinge  64  is coupled to the recess  411  and  421  of the front panel  4 . The hook  63  is inserted into the hook hole  411   a  formed in the recess  411  and  421 , and functions to lock the door  6 . 
     The door hinge  64  is firmly coupled to the outer cover  41  and the cabinet cover  42  through the fastening member. 
     Specifically, the door hinge  64  includes a recessed portion  641  recessed a predetermined depth and spaced a predetermined distance inward from the upper and lower ends thereof. An inserting hole is formed in the recessed portion  641  for inserting a screw or other fastening member therein. The outer cover  41  has a respective receiving hole  411   b  for inserting each recessed portion  641 . Thus, the recessed portion  641  is pressed against the cabinet cover  42 . A screw or similar fastening member is inserted into the front of the door hinge  64  and passes through the cabinet cover  42 . Here, the outer cover  41  prevents the door hinge  64  from moving by means of the receiving hole  411   b . The door hinge  64  is actually fixed to the cabinet cover  42 . In other words, the door hinge  64  is fixed and coupled to the cabinet cover  42  made of a metal plate, and the plastic injection molded outer cover  41  prevents movement thereof. In the above assembly structure, the door  6  is pivotably coupled to the metal cabinet cover  42 , and the likelihood of the outer cover  41  being damaged by the opening and closing of the door  6  is reduced. 
     Below, the order in which the front portion of the cleaning apparatus  1  according to the present invention is assembled will be described step by step. 
     First Step 
     First, the outer cover  41  is coupled to the front surface of the cabinet cover  42 . 
     In detail, the upper rib  416  formed on the upper portion of the outer cover  41  is inserted in the upper rib insert hole  426  formed in the upper surface of the cabinet cover  42 . In this case, in order to easily insert the upper rib  416  into the upper rib insert hole  426 , the process described in  FIG. 18  is performed. 
     The outer cover  41  presses with a predetermined force while against the cabinet cover  42 . In this way, the center hook  417  protruding from the rear surface of the outer cover  41  inserts in the center hook insert hole  431  of the cabinet cover  42 , and the lower rib  418  protruding from the rear surface at the bottom of the outer cover  41  inserts into the lower rib insert hole  430  formed on the front surface at the bottom of the cabinet cover  42 . At the same time, the ends of the plurality of fastening bosses  415  protruding from the rear surface of the outer cover  41  press against the recesses  422  recessed in the front surface of the cabinet cover  42 . In this state, a screw or similar fastening member is inserted from the rear of the recesses  422  and screwed into the fastening bosses. 
     Second Step 
     In the second step, the side frames  52  are coupled to the sides of the front panel  4 . 
     In detail, the side frame fastening tab  414  formed on the side surface of the outer cover  41  is inserted into the insert recess  528  of the side frame  520 . Simultaneously, the frame rib  526  of the side frame  52  is inserted into the frame rib insert hole  413  of the outer frame  41 . The frame hook  525  of the side frame  52  is inserted into the frame hook insert hole  423  of the cabinet cover  42 . 
     Third Step 
     In the third step, with the side frame  52  fastened to the side surface of the front panel  4 , the lower frame  53  is coupled to the bottom thereof. 
     In detail, the respective lower surfaces of the outer and cabinet covers  41  and  42  are pressed against the outer cover mount  532  and the cabinet cover mount  531  formed on the upper portion surface of the lower frame  53 . Here, the standing rib  527  extending from the bottom of the side frame  52  is precisely fitted into the standing rib insert slot  534  of the lower frame  53 . In this state, a fastening member is inserted into the bolting hole  533  formed in the cabinet cover mount  531 , and inserts from the bottom to the top of the lower frame  53 . The fastening member is inserted through the bolting hole  427  formed in the bottom of the cabinet cover  42 . 
     Fourth Step 
     In the fourth step, the front panel  4  assembled in the third step, is installed on the front surface of the cabinet  2 . 
     In detail, the process described in  FIG. 17  for coupling the lower portion of the cabinet cover  42  to the lower panel  22  is implemented. The rear surface at the upper portion of the cabinet cover  42  is pressed against the front surface of the upper panel  21 . Here, the upper surface of the cabinet cover  42  is pressed against the front surface of the upper panel  21 , and then a fastening bolt is used to couple the cabinet cover  42  to the upper panel  21 . 
     Fifth Step 
     In the fifth step, the upper frame  51  is coupled with the cabinet cover  42 , the upper panel  21 , and the side frame  52 . 
     In detail, the fixing rib  515  formed at the lower portion of the upper frame  51  is inserted into the fixing rib insert hole  524  formed in the upper surface of the side frame  52 . Here, the first and second ribs  516  and  517  protruding from the rear surface of the upper frame  51  insert into the first and second rib insert holes  215  and  216  of the upper panel  21 . Then, the fastening hole  512  formed in the cabinet cover fastening tab  511  of the upper frame  51  and the upper frame fastening hole  424   b  of the cabinet cover  42  are aligned. A fastening member is then inserted through the fastening hole  512 , the upper frame fastening hole  424   b , and the upper frame fastening hole  218  formed in the upper panel  21 . 
     Here, in the process of fastening the upper frame  51 , the control panel fastening tab  513  protruding from the upper frame  51  is positioned behind the upper frame fastening tab  214   a.    
     Sixth Step 
     In the final step, the control panel  7  is installed to the inside of the upper frame  51 . 
     In detail, the outer cover fixing rib  75  formed at the bottom of the control panel  7  is inserted into the rib insert hole  412  formed in the upper surface of the outer cover  41 . When the control panel  7  is pressed, the panel hook  76  inserts into the hook insert hole  213   a  of the upper panel  21 . Subsequently, the upper frame fastening boss  73  protruding from the rear surface of the control panel  7  is positioned at the front surface of the upper frame fastening tab  214   a . A fastening member is used to integrally couple the control panel fastening tab  513 , the upper frame fastening tab  214   a , and the upper frame fastening boss  73 . 
     Here, each component of the fringe frame  5 , the outer cover  41 , and the cabinet cover  42  are coupled to form the front unit  10 . However, the process of forming the front unit  10  and the coupling process of the assembled front unit  10  to the cabinet  2  are not limited to the above-described procedures, and the assembly steps may be changed in order. 
     While the present invention has been described and illustrated herein with reference to the preferred embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications and variations of this invention that come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. 
     INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY 
     The cleaning apparatus and the fastening method for the front unit of the cleaning apparatus according to the present invention allow a consumer to easily interchange the color of a front unit of a washing machine, dryer, or similar cleaning apparatus, for a high industrial applicability.