1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a washing machine, and more particularly, to a pulley of a washing machine transferring a rotational force generated from a motor to a drum.
2. Discussion of the Related Art
Generally, a washing machine is a representative home appliance for removing filth or dirt attached to a laundry using a reaction between water and detergent. A washing machine is categorized into various types according to an impacting mechanism on a laundry. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional diagram of a washing machine according to a related art. Referring to FIG. 1, a washing machine 1 consists of a case 10 forming an exterior and having a door 11 on its front side, a tub 20 fixed within the case 10, a drum 30 rotatably provided within the tub 20, and a motor 40 rotating the drum 30. The washing machine 1 further consists of a belt 50 and pulley 60 to transfer a rotational force of the motor 40 to the drum 30. The motor 40 is provided under the tub 20 and is connected to the belt 50. A shaft 31 is provided to a rear side of the drum 30. And, the pulley 60 is coupled to the shaft 31.
FIG. 2 is a front diagram of a pulley according to the related art. Referring to FIG. 2, the pulley 60 has a cylindrical shape having an open front side. A groove (not shown) is formed on a circumference of the pulley to be coupled to the belt 50. A hole 61 is formed in a center of the pulley 60 to be coupled to the shaft 31. And, the pulley 60 is formed of a steel based material having high rigidity to transfer the rotational force to the drum by overcoming the weight of the drum and the laundry therein. However, the related art pulley of the washing machine is formed of the steel based material, thereby becoming heavy to impose a load on the motor. Hence, damage is caused to the motor.