Dishwasher

Abstract

A dishwasher is disclosed. The dishwasher includes a tub in which dishes are accommodated. The dishwasher includes a mounting portion disposed below the tub. The dishwasher includes a compressor mounted on the mounting portion. The compressor compresses a refrigerant. The dishwasher includes a sump mounted on the mounting portion. Wash water can be stored in the sump. The dishwasher includes a wash pump mounted on the mounting portion. The wash pump delivers the wash water. The dishwasher includes a fixing member coupled to the mounting portion. The compressor is coupled to the fixing member. The fixing member is made of a vibration-absorbing material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a dishwasher, and more specifically, to a dishwasher equipped with a heat pump system for heating wash water. Background Technology

[0002] The content described in this section is provided only as background information about this disclosure and does not constitute prior art.

[0003] A dishwasher is a device that uses detergent and washing water to wash food residue (such as food scraps on dishes or cookware).

[0004] A typical dishwasher includes a tub that provides washing space, a rack inside the tub that holds the dishes, spray arms that spray washing water onto the rack, a reservoir that stores the washing water, and a pump that supplies the washing water stored in the reservoir to the spray arms.

[0005] The temperature of the wash water used in a dishwasher can be room temperature. However, using hot wash water can improve washing efficiency and reduce washing time. Therefore, hot wash water can be used for washing or rinsing dishes in at least a portion of the dishwasher's operation.

[0006] Heating devices used to heat washing water can be, for example, electric heaters, heat pump systems, etc.

[0007] Because heat pump systems are more energy efficient than electric heaters, there is a growing trend of incorporating heat pump systems into dishwashers for heating washing water.

[0008] A heat pump system may include a compressor that compresses the refrigerant to form a gas under high temperature and pressure. Among the components that make up a heat pump system, the compressor can operate most dynamically.

[0009] Therefore, a structure is needed to support and fix the compressor so that it can operate stably in the dishwasher.

[0010] In addition, rotating parts in a compressor, such as scrolls or blades, can rotate at high speeds. Therefore, vibration and noise caused by vibration may be generated in the compressor.

[0011] Vibration can adversely affect the compressor and other components in a dishwasher. Additionally, the noise generated by compressor vibration can be inconvenient for the user.

[0012] Therefore, a structure is needed that can reduce the vibration and noise generated by the compressor.

[0013] Meanwhile, when the compressor is running, high-temperature heat may be generated within it. This heat is released to the outside and can become useless waste heat. Therefore, to improve the energy efficiency of a heat pump system, a structure capable of recovering this waste heat is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0014] One technical objective of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a structure in which a compressor is supported and fixed to the structure for stable operation within the dishwasher.

[0015] Another technical objective of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a structure capable of effectively reducing vibration and noise generated by the compressor.

[0016] Another technical objective of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a structure capable of recovering high-temperature waste heat generated from a compressor.

[0017] The purposes of this disclosure are not limited to those described above. Other purposes and advantages of this disclosure (not mentioned) may be understood based on the following description and may be more clearly understood based on embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, it will be readily understood that the purposes and advantages of this disclosure may be achieved using the apparatus or combinations thereof as shown in the claims.

[0018] According to one embodiment, a dishwasher may include a bucket in which tableware is contained.

[0019] The dishwasher may include a mounting section located below the tub.

[0020] A dishwasher may include a compressor mounted on the mounting section. The compressor can compress refrigerant.

[0021] The dishwasher may include a storage tank mounted on the mounting section. Washing water may be stored in the storage tank.

[0022] The dishwasher may include a wash pump mounted on the mounting section. The wash pump delivers wash water.

[0023] The dishwasher may include a mounting component that is connected to the mounting section. The compressor may be connected to the mounting component.

[0024] The mounting portion may include a connecting protrusion that projects upward from the upper surface of the mounting portion. A fixing member may be attached to the connecting protrusion.

[0025] The fixing member may include protrusions and recesses formed thereon and therein and arranged alternately with each other in the vertical direction of the dishwasher.

[0026] Accordingly, the compressor may include a mounting protrusion located at its lower end and projecting in its lateral direction. The mounting protrusion may have a hole defined therein, into which a fixing member is inserted.

[0027] The mounting protrusion can be installed in a recess of the fixed component.

[0028] The connecting protrusion may include at least three connecting protrusions, wherein the connecting protrusions may be arranged radially spaced apart from each other.

[0029] The mounting portion may include a blocking wall that extends to surround a plurality of connecting protrusions. The blocking wall may project upward from the upper surface of the mounting portion.

[0030] The dishwasher may include a waste heat recovery pipe that extends to wrap multiple times around the outer peripheral surface of the compressor. Refrigerant can flow within the waste heat recovery pipe. The waste heat recovery pipe can absorb heat generated from the compressor.

[0031] The dishwasher may also include an evaporator, in which the refrigerant evaporates as it flows. A waste heat recovery pipe may be configured to connect the compressor and the evaporator to each other. The waste heat recovery pipe may extend between the refrigerant outlet of the evaporator and the refrigerant inlet of the compressor.

[0032] A compressor may include a main body that compresses refrigerant. The main body may define the external shape of the compressor.

[0033] The compressor may also include a gas-liquid separator, which is in communication with the refrigerant inlet of the main body and is configured to separate the liquid and gas contained in the refrigerant from each other.

[0034] Waste heat recovery pipes can be configured to connect to a gas-liquid separator.

[0035] The main body can be formed into a cylindrical shape and oriented such that the longitudinal direction of the main body is parallel to the vertical direction of the dishwasher. The waste heat recovery pipe can be constructed to be wound multiple times around the main body.

[0036] The dishwasher may also include a vibration-absorbing section disposed outside the main body and connected to the main body, wherein the vibration-absorbing section may be made of a vibration-absorbing material, and wherein a waste heat recovery pipe may pass through the vibration-absorbing section.

[0037] The waste heat recovery pipe can have multiple windings wound around the main body, and the windings can be spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction. Each winding of the waste heat recovery pipe can be arranged to pass through the vibration absorption section, so that the spacing between adjacent windings remains constant.

[0038] In the dishwasher according to this disclosure, the compressor may be connected to the mounting section via a fixing member made of vibration-absorbing material.

[0039] Because of this structure, a significant portion of the vibrations generated by the compressor during operation can be absorbed by the fixed components. Therefore, the amount of vibration propagating to the mounting section can be very small.

[0040] Therefore, it can prevent vibrations generated from the compressor from propagating to the mounting section, and thus effectively suppress the impacts exerted on other components located in the mounting section due to vibration.

[0041] In addition, it can effectively suppress the vibration of all components installed on the mounting part, thereby suppressing noise. This noise suppression provides convenience for the user.

[0042] Furthermore, in the dishwasher according to this disclosure, the compressor mounting protrusion can be stably and conveniently installed into the recess of the fixing member, or can be removed from the recess.

[0043] Because of this structure, the compressor can be supported and fixed to the mounting part using a fixed component, thus allowing it to operate stably in the dishwasher.

[0044] Furthermore, in the dishwasher according to this disclosure, the refrigerant is preheated in a waste heat recovery pipe before being introduced into the compressor, allowing the compressor to perform less work while still enabling the refrigerant to reach its set outlet pressure and temperature. Therefore, the waste heat recovery pipe can effectively increase the compressor's energy efficiency.

[0045] The compressor can also be cooled via a waste heat recovery pipe. Therefore, overheating of the compressor can be effectively suppressed.

[0046] Furthermore, in the dishwasher according to this disclosure, the vibration absorption section absorbs the vibration of the compressor body and the waste heat recovery pipe, thereby effectively suppressing the vibration of the compressor body and the noise generated therefrom.

[0047] The vibration absorption section can maintain a constant vertical spacing between the windings of the waste heat recovery tube. Therefore, it can effectively prevent the separation distance or spacing between adjacent windings from becoming irregular, and thus effectively prevent the heat exchange efficiency between the main body and the waste heat recovery tube from deteriorating.

[0048] In addition to the effects described above, the specific effects of this disclosure will be described together with the description of the specific matters used to implement this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0049] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment.

[0050] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing components disposed in the base of a dishwasher according to one embodiment.

[0051] Figure 3 This is a partial perspective view showing the compressor mounted on the mounting section.

[0052] Figure 4 It shows from Figure 3 A partial 3D view showing the state of the compressor removed.

[0053] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing a fixing member according to one embodiment.

[0054] Figure 6 This is a side view showing a portion of the mounting section where the compressor is installed. Detailed Implementation

[0055] The above-described objects, features, and advantages will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains can readily practice the technical ideas of this disclosure. In describing this disclosure, detailed descriptions of well-known technologies related to this disclosure will be omitted where it is determined that such detailed descriptions may unnecessarily obscure the essence of this disclosure. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or similar components.

[0056] Although terms like "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. Such terms are only used to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, the first component can also be the second component.

[0057] Throughout this document, unless otherwise stated, each part may be singular or plural.

[0058] As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as “consisting of” or “comprising” should not be construed as necessarily including all the various components or steps described herein, but should be construed as being able to exclude some components or steps and include additional components or steps.

[0059] Throughout this disclosure, unless otherwise specified, “A and / or B” means A, B, or A and B, and unless otherwise specified, “C to D” means C including C to D including D.

[0060] As used here, terms such as “upper,” “lower,” “side,” etc., are used to refer to a part of the dishwasher, its orientation, etc., in the state in which the dishwasher is typically installed.

[0061] Figure 1This is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment. The dishwasher according to one embodiment may include a housing 11 defining the appearance of the dishwasher, a tub 12 for receiving dishes to be washed, a door 20 disposed on the front surface of the tub 12 for opening and closing the tub 12, and a reservoir 100 disposed below the tub 12 for storing washing water therein.

[0062] The dishwasher may also include a plurality of spray arms 13, 14 and 15 disposed in the tub 12 and spraying washing water, a filter 110 disposed in the reservoir 100 and filtering the washing water sprayed from at least one of the plurality of spray arms 13, 14 and 15 and recovering it into the reservoir 100, a washing pump 150 for conveying the washing water stored in the reservoir 100, and a switching valve 130 for controlling the selective flow of the washing water conveyed to at least one of the plurality of spray arms 13, 14 and 15 under the operation of the washing pump 150.

[0063] The tub 12 can be formed in the shape of a hexahedron with an open front surface, and can have a washing chamber 12a defined therein. A connecting hole is formed in the bottom 12b of the tub 12, through which washing water flows into the storage tank 100. In the washing chamber 12a, a plurality of supports 16 and 17 are provided to accommodate the object to be washed. The plurality of supports 16 and 17 may include a lower support 16 disposed in the lower region of the washing chamber 12a and an upper support 17 disposed in the upper region of the washing chamber 12a. The lower support 16 and the upper support 17 are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction and can slide in the forward direction of the tub 12 and extend from the tub 12.

[0064] Multiple spray arms 13, 14, and 15 are arranged vertically. The multiple spray arms 13, 14, and 15 may include: a lower spray arm 13, which is located at the lowest end and sprays washing water upward toward the lower support 16; an upper spray arm 14, which is located on top of the lower spray arm 13 and sprays washing water upward toward the upper support 17; and a top spray arm 15, which is located at the upper end of the washing chamber 12a and on top of the upper spray arm 14 and sprays washing water downward.

[0065] Multiple spray arms 13, 14, and 15 are supplied with washing water from the washing pump 150 via multiple spray arm connection flow paths 18, 19, and 21. The multiple spray arm connection flow paths 18, 19, and 21 may include a lower spray arm connection flow path 18 connected to the lower spray arm 13, an upper spray arm connection flow path 19 connected to the upper spray arm 14, and a top spray arm connection flow path 21 connected to the top spray arm 15.

[0066] Washing water can be supplied from the washing pump 150 to the lower spray arm 13, upper spray arm 14 and top spray arm 15 through the lower spray arm connecting flow path 18, the upper spray arm connecting flow path 19 and the top spray arm connecting flow path 21 respectively.

[0067] The storage tank 100 can be located below the bottom 12b of the tub 12 and can collect washing water. The filter 110 can filter out contaminants in the washing water flowing from the tub 12 to the storage tank 100.

[0068] Wash water sprayed by multiple spray arms 13, 14 and 15 falls to the bottom 12b of the tub 12 along with contaminants deposited on and removed from the object being washed. Thus, the contaminant-containing wash water can be filtered while flowing through the filter 110, which is in communication with the bottom 12b of the tub 12, so that contaminant-free wash water can be stored in the storage tank 100.

[0069] During the washing operation, the washing water can wash the tableware contained in the supports 16 and 17, while circulating through the storage tank 100, spray arms 13, 14 and 15, the bucket 12 and the filter 110.

[0070] Wash pump 150 supplies wash water stored in reservoir 100 to at least one of a plurality of spray arms 13, 14 and 15. Wash pump 150 may include a wash motor that generates rotational force, and an impeller rotated by the wash motor to deliver wash water. Wash pump 150 may be connected to switching valve 130 and wash water supply path 180.

[0071] When the washing pump 150 is working, the washing water stored in the storage tank 100 can be introduced into the washing pump 150 through the water collection flow path 170, and then delivered to the switching valve 130 through the washing water supply flow path 180.

[0072] The switching valve 130 selectively supplies wash water delivered by the washing pump 150 to at least one of the lower spray arm 13, the upper spray arm 14, and the top spray arm 15. The switching valve 130 can also selectively connect the wash water supply path 180 to at least one of the plurality of spray arm connection paths 18, 19, and 21.

[0073] The storage tank 100 is connected to a water supply path 23 through which washing water supplied from an external water source flows. A water supply valve 22 for controlling the flow rate of washing water supplied from the external water source can be installed in the water supply path 23. The water supply valve 22 controls the supply of washing water from the external water source to the storage tank 100. When the water supply valve 22 is open, washing water supplied from the external water source can be introduced into the storage tank 100 through the water supply path 23.

[0074] The storage tank 100 can be connected to the drain passage 24 for discharging washing water to the outside of the dishwasher. A drain pump 25 can be installed in the drain passage 24 for discharging the washing water in the storage tank 100 through the drain passage 24. When the drain pump 25 is operating, the washing water stored in the storage tank 100 can be discharged from the housing 11 to the outside through the drain passage 24.

[0075] A heating device for heating the washing water can be installed in the storage tank 100 or the washing pump 150. The heating device can be, for example, an electric heater, a heat pump system, etc.

[0076] In one implementation, a heat pump system can be used to heat the wash water. The heat pump system will be described first below.

[0077] A heat pump system is a system that pumps heat from a low-temperature environment to a high-temperature environment. This heat pumping can be achieved using, for example, a compressor 500. In one embodiment, the heat pump system can be implemented using a so-called two-phase flow refrigeration cycle, which increases the temperature of the refrigerant by compressing the refrigerant, which is flowing in two phases, into a gaseous state using the compressor 500.

[0078] A heat pump system for performing a two-phase refrigeration cycle may include a compressor 500, a condenser 300, an expander, and an evaporator 600. These components are connected to each other via pipes. As the refrigerant flows and circulates through these components, its phase and temperature change, allowing the refrigerant to absorb heat from its surroundings or dissipate heat to its surroundings.

[0079] The refrigerant can be introduced into the compressor 500 in a low-temperature gaseous state. The refrigerant can be compressed in the compressor 500. From the outlet of the compressor 500, the refrigerant can be introduced into the condenser 300 in a high-temperature and high-pressure superheated gaseous state.

[0080] The refrigerant and the wash water can flow separately in the condenser 300. The refrigerant can be introduced into the condenser 300 and exchange heat with the wash water, and the wash water can be heated when it receives heat from the refrigerant.

[0081] The refrigerant can change from a superheated gaseous state to a saturated state where liquid and gas coexist, while maintaining the theoretically same pressure in the condenser 300.

[0082] The refrigerant flows into the condenser 300 in a superheated state, transferring heat to the wash water and causing the refrigerant temperature to drop. Then, when the refrigerant reaches saturation, the proportion of liquid can be gradually increased while the refrigerant theoretically remains at a constant temperature. During this liquefaction process, the refrigerant releases a large amount of latent heat of liquefaction, and the wash water can be heated upon receiving this heat.

[0083] The refrigerant from the condenser 300 can be introduced into the expansion device in a saturated liquid or subcooled liquid state. Such an expansion device can be configured as, for example, an expansion valve or a capillary tube device.

[0084] The refrigerant can undergo adiabatic expansion, meaning its enthalpy is theoretically constant within the expansion device. During this expansion, a portion of the refrigerant evaporates, thus reducing its pressure. As a portion of the refrigerant evaporates to dissipate the heat of the evaporation into the surrounding environment, the overall temperature of the refrigerant can decrease. In other words, the refrigerant can be introduced into the evaporator 600 under the low temperature and low pressure conditions obtained while flowing through the expansion device.

[0085] When refrigerant is introduced into evaporator 600, the proportion of gas in the refrigerant gradually increases within evaporator 600, while simultaneously absorbing heat from the relatively high-temperature environment. In evaporator 600, the proportion of gas in the refrigerant can gradually increase, while theoretically maintaining the same pressure and temperature for the refrigerant.

[0086] The refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 can be introduced into the compressor 500 in the presence of a small amount of liquid or in a slightly superheated state. The refrigerant introduced into the compressor 500 can circulate through the compressor 500, condenser 300, expansion unit, and evaporator 600, while repeating the above process.

[0087] Typically, refrigeration systems utilize the principle that refrigerant absorbs heat from the evaporator 600. One embodiment of a heat pump system can utilize the heat released from the refrigerant in the condenser 300.

[0088] In a heat pump system, heat exchange occurs between the high-temperature refrigerant in condenser 300 and the relatively low-temperature wash water, thus heating the wash water. The high-temperature wash water heated by condenser 300 makes it easier to wash or rinse dishes than wash water at room temperature.

[0089] In this respect, such a heat pump system does not always need to operate while the dishwasher is running the wash or rinse process. For example, when using wash water at room temperature to perform the wash or rinse, the compressor 500 does not work, allowing room temperature water to be sprayed onto the dishes without heating the wash water.

[0090] Even when the compressor 500 stops and the wash water is not heated, the wash water can still flow through the condenser 300 and circulate throughout the dishwasher.

[0091] In another embodiment, a bypass flow path can be defined to bypass the condenser 300. Therefore, when the compressor 500 stops, the wash water can flow along the bypass flow path to bypass the condenser, thereby improving the performance of the condenser 300 and extending its lifespan.

[0092] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the components housed in the base 30 of a dishwasher according to an embodiment. Components constituting the heat pump system may be located, for example, below the tub 12.

[0093] The dishwasher may include a base 30 disposed below the tub 12. A heat pump system and other devices for driving the dishwasher may be disposed in the base 30. The base 30 has an internal space defined therein below the tub 12, and this internal space may be used as a machine room in which various mechanical components are disposed.

[0094] The dishwasher may include a mounting portion 40 on which the condenser 300 is mounted. The mounting portion 40 may be disposed within the base 30. The mounting portion 40 may be disposed below the tub 12.

[0095] The mounting section 40 can typically be formed in the shape of a plate. Various components can be attached to the upper surface of the mounting section 40.

[0096] The mounting part 40 can be disposed inside the base 30. The mounting part 40 can be easily removed from the base 30. For example, the mounting part 40 can be mounted to the base 30 using a fastening device. The fastening device can be loosened, and the mounting part 40 can be removed as follows: Figure 2 It moves in the sliding manner indicated by the arrow in the diagram, and can therefore be removed from the base 30.

[0097] When the mounting portion 40 is guided by a guide rail formed on the inner surface of the base 30, the mounting portion can slide to extend from the base 30.

[0098] The condenser 300 can be mounted on the mounting section 40. The refrigerant and washing water can flow separately in the condenser 300. The refrigerant can condense in the condenser 300. The refrigerant can be condensed to release its latent heat of condensation, allowing the washing water to be heated by the heat released from the refrigerant.

[0099] Although not shown, the expansion valve can be installed at a suitable location in the mounting section 40. Since the size of the expansion valve is smaller than the size of each of the other components constituting the heat pump system, the expansion value can be appropriately set in the spare space of the mounting section 40.

[0100] The dishwasher may include a water softener device 41 for generating soft water. The water softener device 41 may be mounted on the mounting section 40. Soft water is water containing very little or no minerals (such as calcium and magnesium). When using soft water to wash dishes, the washing efficiency of the dishes can be improved, and the life of the dishes can be increased. Therefore, it is necessary to use soft water to wash dishes as needed.

[0101] In one embodiment, wash water can be introduced into a water softener device 41, and the water can be converted into soft water using the water softener device 41, which can then be used for washing dishes. However, the water softener device 41 is not an essential component of a dishwasher.

[0102] The water softener device 41 can be connected to the storage tank 100 via a pipe. Therefore, the water introduced into the water softener device 41 can be softened by the water softener device 41. The softened water discharged from the water softener device 41 can be introduced into the storage tank 100 and used for washing dishes.

[0103] The dishwasher may include a reservoir 100 in which washing water is stored. The reservoir 100 may be mounted on the mounting section 40. The reservoir 100 may be positioned below the tub 12.

[0104] The washing water stored in the tank 100 can flow under the operation of the washing pump 150, and can wash the tableware contained in the tub 12 while circulating through the tank 100, the washing pump 150, the multiple spray arms 13, 14 and 15 and the tub 12.

[0105] In this respect, the washing water is heated by a heat pump system and sprayed at high temperature from multiple spray arms 13, 14 and 15 to wash or rinse the dishes contained in the tub 12, thereby improving washing efficiency.

[0106] Additionally, a washing pump 150 can be mounted on the mounting section 40. Furthermore, a compressor 500 can be mounted on the mounting section 40. The compressor 500 can compress the refrigerant. Additionally, an evaporator 600 can be mounted on the mounting section 40.

[0107] As described above, the compressor 500, condenser 300, expansion device and evaporator 600 constituting the heat pump system are connected to each other by pipes, and the refrigerant can undergo a phase change, so that its temperature and pressure change as it circulates through each component constituting the heat pump system.

[0108] Meanwhile, when the washing pump 150 is working, the washing water can flow sequentially through the washing pump 150, the condenser 300, the multiple spray arms 13, 14 and 15, the tank 12 and the storage tank 100, and can be reintroduced into the washing pump 150, and the above components can be circulated again.

[0109] Compressor 500 can compress refrigerant to form a gas at high temperature and high pressure. Therefore, among the components constituting a heat pump system, compressor 500 can operate most dynamically.

[0110] Therefore, a structure is needed that is stably supported and fixed to the mounting part 40 so that the compressor 500 can operate stably in the dishwasher.

[0111] Furthermore, rotating parts of the compressor 500, such as scroll plates or blades, can rotate at high speeds. Therefore, vibration and noise generated due to vibration can be produced from the compressor 500.

[0112] Vibration can adversely affect the compressor 500 and other components located in the dishwasher. Additionally, the noise generated by the vibration of the compressor 500 may cause inconvenience to the user.

[0113] Therefore, a fixing structure is needed to fix the compressor 500 to the mounting part 40, thereby reducing the vibration and noise generated by the compressor 500.

[0114] Meanwhile, when compressor 500 is running, high-temperature heat can be generated from it. This high-temperature heat can be released to the outside and become useless waste heat. Therefore, in order to improve the energy efficiency of the heat pump system, a structure capable of recovering this waste heat is needed.

[0115] The following text will describe it in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0116] Figure 3 This is a partial perspective view showing the compressor 500 mounted on the mounting section 40. Figure 4 It shows from Figure 3 A partial 3D view showing the state of compressor 500 removed.

[0117] In one embodiment, the compressor 500 may typically have a cylindrical shape, and its length may extend in the vertical direction. Therefore, the compressor 500 may be configured such that its bottom is connected to the mounting portion 40.

[0118] The dishwasher may include a mounting member 700 connected to the mounting portion 40. A compressor 500 may be connected to the mounting member 700. The mounting member 700 may be made of a vibration-absorbing material.

[0119] For example, the fixing member 700 can be made of materials with excellent vibration absorption properties, such as rubber and silicon.

[0120] Therefore, the compressor 500 can be connected to the mounting part 40 via a fixing member 700 made of vibration-absorbing material.

[0121] Because of this structure, when the compressor 500 is operating, the main part of the vibration generated from the compressor 500 can be absorbed by the fixing member 700. Therefore, the amount of such vibration propagating to the mounting part 40 can be very small.

[0122] Therefore, vibrations generated from the compressor 500 can be prevented from propagating to the mounting section 40, and thus, impacts on other components mounted on the mounting section 40 due to vibration can be effectively suppressed.

[0123] In addition, it can effectively suppress the noise generated by the vibration of all components installed on the mounting part 40. Noise is suppressed, thus providing convenience for the user.

[0124] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing a fixing member 700 according to one embodiment.

[0125] The mounting portion 40 may include a connecting protrusion 40-1 that protrudes upward from the upper surface of the mounting portion 40. The fixing member 700 may be connected to the connecting protrusion 40-1.

[0126] A fastening hole may be formed in the connecting protrusion 40-1. Fastening devices such as screws can be connected to the fastening hole. In one example, a hole may be formed in the fixing member 700. Therefore, the fastening device can pass through the fixing member 700 and be inserted into the fastening hole. Thus, the fixing member 700 can be securely fixed to the connecting protrusion 40-1 using the fastening device.

[0127] Reference Figure 5 The protrusions 710 and recesses 720 can be formed on and within the fixing member 700, and can be arranged alternately in the vertical direction. Multiple protrusions 710 and multiple recesses 720 can be provided, and the protrusions 710 and recesses 720 can be arranged alternately in the vertical direction of the dishwasher.

[0128] Accordingly, the compressor 500 may include a mounting protrusion 510, which is disposed at the bottom of the compressor 500 and protrudes laterally. A hole for inserting a fixing member 700 may be formed in the mounting protrusion 510.

[0129] For example, the mounting protrusion 510 can be integrally formed with the main body 520 that defines the appearance of the compressor 500. The mounting protrusion 510 can be provided at the bottom of the compressor 500. Therefore, the mounting protrusion 510 can be provided at a position adjacent to the mounting portion 40.

[0130] The mounting protrusion 510 can be installed in the recess 720 of the fixing member 700. That is, the fixing member 700 can be fitted into the hole formed in the mounting protrusion 510.

[0131] The fixing member 700 can be made of a material capable of good elastic deformation. Therefore, the mounting protrusion 510 can be forcibly fitted into the recess of the fixing member 700. Thus, the mounting protrusion 510 can be installed onto the fixing member 700 without a separate connecting tool and can be detached from the fixing member 700.

[0132] Multiple recesses 720 can be provided for the fixing member 700. The recesses 720 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction of the dishwasher. Therefore, the mounting protrusion 510 of the compressor 500 can be fitted into a selected recess of the recesses 720, so that the vertical level of the top surface of the compressor 500 in the vertical direction can be adjusted. In this way, the compressor can be fixed to the mounting part 40.

[0133] At least three connecting protrusions 40-1 can be provided. The connecting protrusions 40-1 can be spaced apart from each other and arranged radially. In this respect, the mounting protrusions 510 can be arranged in a shape corresponding to the number of the multiple connecting protrusions 40-1.

[0134] When the number of connecting protrusions 40-1 is two or less, the compressor 500 can tilt in a specific direction during operation. In one embodiment, three or more connecting protrusions 40-1 may be provided and may be arranged radially.

[0135] Because of this structure, even when vibration occurs during the operation of the compressor 500, the compressor 500 can be stably supported by three or more support points.

[0136] In one embodiment, as in the structure described above, the mounting protrusion 510 of the compressor 500 can be stably and conveniently mounted into the recess 720 of the fixing member 700, or can be removed from the recess 720.

[0137] Because of this structure, the compressor 500 can be supported and fixed to the mounting part 40 via the fixing member 700, and thus can operate stably in the dishwasher.

[0138] The mounting portion 40 may include a blocking wall 40-2 that extends to surround a plurality of connecting protrusions 40-1. The blocking wall 40-2 may project upward from the upper surface of the mounting portion 40.

[0139] Reference Figure 4 The barrier wall 40-2 can be formed to surround multiple connecting protrusions 40-1 and to be disposed on the outside of the connecting protrusions 40-1. For example, when three connecting protrusions 40-1 are provided, the barrier wall 40-2 can be configured to be approximately triangular in shape.

[0140] The baffle wall 40-2 can prevent washing water from reaching the compressor 500. Since the mounting part 40 is located below the tank 12 and the storage tank 100, washing water falling from the tank 12 or the storage tank 100 can accumulate on the upper surface of the mounting part 40.

[0141] When the washing water accumulated on the upper surface of the mounting section 40 approaches the compressor 500, the washing water may be introduced into the compressor 500. This may have an adverse effect on the compressor 500.

[0142] Therefore, the baffle wall 40-2 protruding upward from the upper surface of the mounting part 40 can prevent washing water from reaching the compressor 500. Thus, the baffle wall 40-2 can protect the compressor 500 from the influence of washing water.

[0143] The dishwasher may include a waste heat recovery pipe 501, which extends to wrap multiple times around the outer peripheral surface of the compressor 500. Refrigerant may flow through the waste heat recovery pipe 501. The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may absorb heat generated in the compressor 500.

[0144] To improve the heat exchange efficiency between the compressor 500 and the waste heat recovery pipe 501, the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be configured to at least partially contact the outer surface of the compressor 500.

[0145] Waste heat recovery pipe 501 can be configured to connect compressor 500 to evaporator 600, where refrigerant evaporates as it flows. Waste heat recovery pipe 501 can be located between the outlet of evaporator 600 and the inlet of compressor 500.

[0146] Therefore, the refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 can be introduced into the compressor 500 through the waste heat recovery pipe 501. The low-temperature refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 can be preheated by the heat generated from the compressor 500 while flowing through the waste heat recovery pipe 501, and then the preheated refrigerant can be introduced into the compressor 500.

[0147] Therefore, the refrigerant is preheated in the waste heat recovery pipe 501 and introduced into the compressor 500, allowing the compressor 500 to perform less work while still enabling the refrigerant to reach its set outlet pressure and temperature. Thus, the waste heat recovery pipe 501 effectively increases the energy efficiency of the compressor 500.

[0148] The compressor 500 can also be cooled by the waste heat recovery pipe 501. Therefore, overheating of the compressor 500 can be effectively suppressed.

[0149] When compressor 500 overheats, operation of compressor 500 is stopped to protect compressor 500. In one embodiment, compressor 500 is cooled by waste heat recovery pipe 501 to suppress its overheating, thereby eliminating or significantly reducing the number of compressor 500 operation interruptions caused by compressor 500 overheating.

[0150] The main body 520 that defines the shape of the compressor 500 can be made of a metal material. In addition, in order to improve heat exchange efficiency, the waste heat recovery pipe 501 can also be made of a metal material with high thermal conductivity, such as copper, aluminum, etc.

[0151] Figure 6 This is a side view showing a portion of the mounting section 40 where the compressor 500 is installed.

[0152] The compressor 500 may include a body 520 for compressing refrigerant. The body 520 may define the external shape of the compressor 500.

[0153] The compressor 500 may include a gas-liquid separator 530 in communication with the inlet of the main body 520. The gas-liquid separator 530 can separate the liquid and gas contained in the refrigerant from each other.

[0154] The refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 can flow through the gas-liquid separator 530 and then be introduced into the compressor 500. The gas-liquid separator 530 can remove the liquid contained in the refrigerant, that is, liquid refrigerant. Therefore, it can effectively prevent the liquid refrigerant from being introduced into the compressor 500 and impacting the rotating parts of the compressor 500, thereby preventing damage to the parts.

[0155] In one example, the gas-liquid separator 530 can remove not only liquid refrigerant, but also liquid oil contained in the refrigerant.

[0156] Waste heat recovery pipe 501 can be configured to communicate with gas-liquid separator 530. Therefore, refrigerant discharged from evaporator 600 can flow sequentially through waste heat recovery pipe 501, gas-liquid separator 530 and compressor 500.

[0157] Therefore, any liquid refrigerant or liquid oil remaining in the refrigerant preheated by the waste heat recovery pipe 501 can be removed from the gas-liquid separator 530. This prevents liquid refrigerant or liquid oil from flowing into the compressor 500.

[0158] This structure can effectively prevent the compressor 500 from being damaged by liquid refrigerant or liquid oil.

[0159] The main body 520 can be formed into a cylindrical shape and can be oriented such that its longitudinal direction is parallel to the vertical direction. The waste heat recovery pipe 501 can be configured to be wound multiple times around the main body 520.

[0160] Increasing the number of windings in the waste heat recovery pipe 501 can improve the preheating effect of the refrigerant. However, increasing the number of windings in the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may increase the flow resistance of the refrigerant. Therefore, the power consumption of the compressor 500 used for forced refrigerant circulation may increase.

[0161] Taking these points into account, the number of windings of the waste heat recovery tube 501 around the main body 520 can be appropriately selected.

[0162] Since the waste heat recovery pipe 501 is wound around the body 520 of the compressor 500, vibrations generated from the compressor 500 can be transmitted to the waste heat recovery pipe 501. Therefore, the waste heat recovery pipe 501 can vibrate.

[0163] When the waste heat recovery pipe 501 vibrates, the flow of refrigerant through it becomes unstable. This may reduce the performance of the heat pump system.

[0164] Furthermore, when the waste heat recovery pipe 501 vibrates, the position of the waste heat recovery pipe 501, which is wound multiple times on the main body 520, may change. In this case, the heat recovery efficiency in the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may deteriorate. It is necessary to address this situation. Therefore, in one embodiment, a vibration absorption section 502 can be provided to address the above situation.

[0165] The dishwasher may include a vibration-absorbing section 502 disposed outside the main body 520. The vibration-absorbing section 502 may be coupled to the main body 520. The vibration-absorbing section 502 may be configured such that a waste heat recovery pipe 501 passes through it.

[0166] The vibration absorbing part 502 can be made of a vibration absorbing material. For example, the vibration absorbing part 502 can be made of a material with excellent vibration absorption properties, such as rubber or silicone.

[0167] The vibration absorption unit 502 can absorb the vibration of the main body 520 of the compressor 500 and the waste heat recovery pipe 501, thereby effectively suppressing their vibration and the noise generated therefrom.

[0168] The vibration absorption part 502 can be attached to the surface of the body 520 of the compressor 500, for example, by means of an adhesive.

[0169] The waste heat recovery tube 501 can be wound multiple times on the main body 520. The windings of the waste heat recovery tube 501 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction.

[0170] Each winding of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 can be configured to pass through the vibration absorption section 502. Therefore, the separation distance between the windings can be maintained.

[0171] Therefore, the vibration absorption section 502 can allow the upper and lower separation distance between the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 to be maintained.

[0172] When the spacing between the windings changes and becomes irregular due to the vibration of the compressor 500, the total contact area between the main body 520 and the waste heat recovery tube 501 can be reduced. As a result, the heat exchange efficiency between the main body 520 and the waste heat recovery tube 501 can be lower than the design value.

[0173] In one embodiment, the vibration absorption section 502 can be configured to allow maintaining the vertical spacing between the windings of the waste heat recovery tube 501. Therefore, it can effectively prevent the separation spacing between the windings from changing and becoming irregular, and thus effectively prevent a deterioration in the heat exchange efficiency between the body 520 and the waste heat recovery tube 501.

[0174] The present disclosure has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed herein, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made to it within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure. Furthermore, even if the effects of the configuration according to the present disclosure are not explicitly described and explained while describing the embodiments of the present disclosure, it should be understood that the predictable effects are thus attributable to it.

Claims

1. A dishwasher, the dishwasher comprising: A bucket, the bucket being configured to hold tableware in the bucket; The mounting part is located below the barrel; A compressor, which is mounted on the mounting portion and configured to compress refrigerant; as well as A fixing member is connected to the mounting part, wherein the compressor is connected to the fixing member, and the fixing member is made of vibration-absorbing material.

2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The mounting portion includes a connecting protrusion projecting upward from the upper surface of the mounting portion, wherein the fixing member is connected to the connecting protrusion. The fixing member includes protrusions and recesses formed on and in the fixing member and arranged alternately with each other in the vertical direction of the dishwasher.

3. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein, The compressor includes a mounting protrusion disposed at the lower end of the compressor and projecting in the lateral direction of the compressor, wherein the mounting protrusion has a hole defined therein, and the fixing member is inserted into the hole. The mounting protrusion is mounted into one of the recesses of the fixing member.

4. The dishwasher according to claim 3, wherein, The connecting protrusion includes at least three connecting protrusions. The connecting protrusions are arranged radially and spaced apart from each other.

5. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein, The connecting protrusion includes multiple connecting protrusions. The mounting portion further includes a blocking wall that extends around the plurality of connecting protrusions, wherein the blocking wall protrudes upward from the upper surface of the mounting portion.

6. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The dishwasher also includes a waste heat recovery pipe that extends and wraps multiple times around the outer peripheral surface of the compressor. The refrigerant flowing in and along the waste heat recovery pipe absorbs heat generated from the compressor.

7. The dishwasher according to claim 6, wherein, The dishwasher also includes an evaporator, wherein the refrigerant evaporates as it flows within the evaporator. The waste heat recovery pipe is configured to connect the compressor and the evaporator to each other.

8. The dishwasher according to claim 7, wherein, The waste heat recovery pipe extends between the refrigerant outlet of the evaporator and the refrigerant inlet of the compressor.

9. The dishwasher according to claim 6, wherein, The compressor includes: The main body, configured to compress the refrigerant; and A gas-liquid separator, which is in communication with the refrigerant inlet of the main body, and is configured to separate the liquid and gas contained in the refrigerant from each other. The waste heat recovery pipe is configured to be connected to the gas-liquid separator.

10. The dishwasher according to claim 9, wherein, The main body is formed in a cylindrical shape and oriented such that the longitudinal direction of the main body is parallel to the vertical direction of the dishwasher. The waste heat recovery pipe is constructed to be wound multiple times around the main body.

Images