Dishwasher

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dishwasher. The dishwasher is configured to generate a plurality of wash water heating modes using a heat pump module, a wash water heater, or a combination thereof as a heating source according to a user's intention to prioritize energy saving or according to a user's intention to prioritize time saving, and allows a user to freely select one mode therefrom, thereby providing various selection options for the wash water heating mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a dishwasher, and more specifically, to a dishwasher configured to prioritize energy saving or time saving based on user intent, using a heat pump module, a wash water heater, or a combination thereof as a heat source to generate multiple wash water heating modes, and allowing the user to freely select one mode from which various options for the wash water heating modes are provided. Background Technology

[0002] A dishwasher is a device that washes dishes and cooking utensils stored therein by spraying washing water into it. In this respect, the washing water may contain detergent.

[0003] Dishwashers typically include a tub with a washing space defined therein, a dish rack inside the tub that holds the dish to be washed, spray arms that spray washing water onto the dish rack, and a reservoir therein that stores water and supplies the washing water to the spray arms.

[0004] Using a dishwasher can reduce the time and effort required to wash dishes and other cleaning targets after meals, thus bringing convenience to users.

[0005] When using a dishwasher to wash dishes, the wash water and air can be heated to enhance the washing effect. An electric heater can be used as a device to heat the wash water and air.

[0006] Dishwashers have emerged that use heat pumps instead of electric heaters as heating devices, or a combination of heat pumps and electric heaters.

[0007] Heat pump devices have a much higher energy efficiency than electric heaters. Therefore, when heating wash water with a heat pump device, electricity consumption can be reduced compared to using an electric heater.

[0008] In this regard, each of German Patent No. 10-2013-102157 (Prior Art Document 001), U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20120167920 (Prior Art Document 002) and European Patent No. 2064982 (Prior Art Document 003) discloses a structure of a dishwasher that includes a heat pump device and an electric heater as a heating source for heating the washing water.

[0009] Existing technical documents

[0010] Patent documents

[0011] (Patent Document 001) German Patent No. 10-2013-102157

[0012] (Patent Document 002) U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20120167920

[0013] (Patent Document 003) European Patent No. 2064982 Summary of the Invention

[0014] However, the dishwashers disclosed in the aforementioned existing literature are configured to heat the washing water by simultaneous or sequential operation of a heat pump device and an electric heater, but are not configured to set various washing water heating modes according to the user's needs or requests.

[0015] Therefore, the problem is that the dishwashers disclosed in the aforementioned prior art documents do not take user convenience into account.

[0016] Therefore, dishwashers disclosed in the prior art are configured such that when performing a washing water heating mode using a heat pump device, an electric heater, or a combination thereof, it is impossible to switch to another washing water heating mode.

[0017] Therefore, it is impossible to realize the user's intention to switch to energy-saving mode or fast heating mode while performing a washing program according to a specific washing water heating mode, which causes inconvenience to the user.

[0018] The present invention aims to solve the problems of the prior art described above. Therefore, the first object of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured to generate multiple washing water heating modes by using a heat pump module, a washing water heater, or a combination thereof as a heat source according to user intent to prioritize energy saving or time saving, and to allow the user to freely select one mode from which various selection options for washing water heating modes are provided.

[0019] Furthermore, a second objective of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher configured to switch from a specific washing water heating mode to another washing water heating mode according to the user's intention when heating washing water in a specific washing water heating mode, thereby significantly improving user convenience.

[0020] The purpose of this disclosure is not limited to the objectives described above. Other objectives and advantages not mentioned in this disclosure will be understood based on the following description, and will become clearer from the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, it will be readily understood that the objectives and advantages of this disclosure can be achieved by the means indicated in the claims and combinations thereof.

[0021] The dishwasher according to the invention includes: a tub having a washing space defined therein and accommodating tableware; a reservoir storing washing water to be supplied to the tub; a washing pump configured to pressurize the washing water to be supplied to the tub; a washing water heater for heating the washing water to be supplied to the reservoir, wherein the washing water heater is an electric heater; and a heat pump module for heating the washing water to be supplied to the reservoir, wherein at least one of the heat pump module or the washing water heater is selected as a heating source for heating the washing water based on a washing water heating mode for the washing water.

[0022] In addition, the washing water heating mode can be selected from normal mode, energy-saving mode, and quick washing water heating mode.

[0023] In addition, each of the heat pump module or the washing water heater, which serves as the heating source for heating the washing water, may have an operation start time and an operation stop time that are set to vary depending on whether the selected washing water heating mode is a normal mode, an energy-saving mode, or a rapid washing water heating mode.

[0024] Furthermore, while using either the heat pump module or the wash water heater to heat the wash water, the heating source for heating the wash water can be switched from either the heat pump module or the wash water heater to the other or a combination thereof at the heating source switching time point.

[0025] In addition, the heating source switching time can be set to vary based on whether the selected washing water heating mode is normal mode, energy-saving mode, or rapid washing water heating mode.

[0026] In addition, the heating source switching time in the quick wash water heating mode is earlier than that in the normal mode.

[0027] In addition, the heating source switching time in energy-saving mode can be later than the heating source switching time in normal mode.

[0028] In addition, when the washing water is heated in one of the normal mode, energy-saving mode and quick washing water heating mode, the washing water heating mode can be switched from that mode to one of the remaining two modes.

[0029] Furthermore, when the selected washing water heating mode is normal mode, a combination of a heat pump module and a washing water heater can be selected as the heat source. In this case, the heat pump module can be used to heat the washing water while the washing water heater is stopped, until the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature. Alternatively, the washing water heater can be used to heat the washing water while the heat pump module is stopped, until the washing water temperature reaches a second target temperature that exceeds the first target temperature.

[0030] In addition, the washing pump can be stopped when the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature.

[0031] In addition, when the selected washing water heating mode is energy-saving mode, the heat pump module can be selected as the heating source, and the operation of the washing water heater can be stopped.

[0032] In addition, a heat pump module can be used to heat the washing water until the washing water temperature reaches a first target temperature, and then a second target temperature that exceeds the first target temperature.

[0033] In addition, the washing pump can be stopped when the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature.

[0034] In addition, when the selected washing water heating mode is the rapid washing water heating mode, a combination of a heat pump module and a washing water heater can be selected as the heating source.

[0035] In addition, both a heat pump module and a wash water heater can be used to heat the wash water until the wash water temperature reaches a first target temperature, and then a second target temperature that exceeds the first target temperature.

[0036] In addition, the washing pump can be stopped when the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature.

[0037] The dishwasher according to the present invention includes: a tub having a washing space defined therein and accommodating tableware; a storage tank storing washing water to be supplied to the tub; a heat pump module for heating the washing water to be supplied to the storage tank; and a washing water heater for heating the washing water to be supplied to the storage tank, wherein the washing water heater is an electric heater, and wherein the timing of whether to operate the washing water heater, the start time of operation of the washing water heater, and the stop time of operation of the washing water heater are varied based on the washing water heating mode of the washing water.

[0038] In addition, the washing water heating mode can be selected from normal mode, energy-saving mode, and quick washing water heating mode.

[0039] In addition, when the washing water is heated in one of the normal mode, energy-saving mode and quick washing water heating mode, the washing water heating mode can be switched from that mode to one of the remaining two modes.

[0040] In addition, the time it takes for the washing water temperature to reach the target temperature in the quick wash water heating mode can be a first value, the time it takes for the washing water temperature to reach the target temperature in the normal mode can be a second value greater than the first value, and the time it takes for the washing water temperature to reach the target temperature in the energy-saving mode can be a third value greater than the second value.

[0041] In addition, when the selected washing water heating mode is normal mode, power can be supplied to the heat pump module first to start the operation of the heat pump module, and then power can be supplied to the washing water heater to start the operation of the washing water heater.

[0042] Furthermore, when the selected wash water heating mode is energy-saving mode, only the heat pump module can be powered, thus using only the heat pump module to heat the wash water, and the wash water heater can remain off while the wash water is being heated. Alternatively, only the heat pump module is powered initially, so that only the heat pump module is used to heat the wash water, and then the wash water heater operation begins.

[0043] Furthermore, when the selected washing water heating mode is the rapid washing water heating mode, both the heat pump module and the washing water heater can be powered simultaneously, allowing the washing water to be heated while the operation of the heat pump module and the washing water heater begins simultaneously. Alternatively, the operation of the washing water heater can be started by powering only the washing water heater, and then the operation of the heat pump module can be started subsequently.

[0044] The dishwasher according to this disclosure can be configured to generate multiple washing water heating modes based on user intent to prioritize energy saving or user intent to prioritize time saving, and allows the user to freely select one of them, thereby providing a variety of options for washing water heating modes.

[0045] Furthermore, the dishwasher according to this disclosure can be configured to switch from one washing water heating mode to another according to the user's intention while heating the washing water in a specific washing water heating mode, thereby significantly improving user convenience.

[0046] In addition to the effects described above, specific effects of this disclosure will also be described in conjunction with the description of the specific subject matter used to implement this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0047] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the dishwasher shown.

[0049] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 The image shows a front perspective view of the dishwasher with the door open.

[0050] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a heat pump module installed in a dishwasher according to the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 5 This is a front perspective view showing the state in which an exemplary heat pump module constituting a dishwasher according to the present disclosure is housed in a base.

[0052] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 5 The diagram shows the heat pump module installed in the base.

[0053] Figure 7 This shows how the wash water is used when the dishwasher performs a wash cycle or a heated rinse cycle. Figure 5 The diagram shows the heating process of a heat pump module or a washing water heater.

[0054] Figure 8 This is a functional block diagram illustrating the construction of a controller for a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Figure 9 This is a time-temperature graph showing the washing water of a first embodiment of the dishwasher according to the present disclosure being heated in standard mode or normal mode.

[0056] Figure 10a and Figure 10b These are time-temperature graphs showing the washing water being heated in energy-saving mode in the second-first embodiment and the second-second embodiment of the dishwasher according to the present disclosure.

[0057] Figure 11a and Figure 11b These are time-temperature graphs showing the washing water in the dishwasher according to the third-first embodiment and the third-second embodiment of the present disclosure being heated in a rapid heating mode.

[0058] Figures 12 to 17 It is used to show by Figure 8 The flowchart shows the steps of the control method executed by the controller. Detailed Implementation

[0059] The above-described objects, features, and advantages will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Therefore, those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains will be able to readily implement the technical concepts of this disclosure. In describing this disclosure, detailed descriptions of known technologies related to this disclosure are omitted where such descriptions may unnecessarily obscure the essential points 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.

[0060] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another element, component, region, layer, or section. Therefore, without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the first element, component, region, layer, or section described below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or section.

[0061] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular constituting "a" is also intended to include the plural constituting, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0062] It should also be understood that when a first element or layer is referred to as existing "on" a second element or layer, the first element may be directly disposed on the second element, or indirectly disposed on the second element by means of a third element or layer disposed between the first element and the second element or layer. It will also be understood that when a first element or layer is referred to as existing "below" a second element or layer, the first element may be directly disposed below the second element, or indirectly disposed below the second element between the third element or layer by means of a third element or layer disposed between the first element and the second element or layer.

[0063] It should be understood that when a component or layer is referred to as being "connected to" or "attached to" another component or layer, it may be directly connected to or attached to the other component or layer, or there may be one or more intermediate components or layers between them. Furthermore, it should be understood that when a component or layer is referred to as being "between" two components or layers, it may be the only component or layer between those two components or layers, or there may be one or more intermediate components or layers between them.

[0064] It should also be understood that when the terms "comprising" and "including" are used in this specification, they specify the presence of the stated feature, integer, operation, element, and / or component, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, operations, elements, components, and / or portions thereof. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more related listed items. Expressions preceding the list of components (e.g., "at least one") may modify the entire list of components but may not modify individual components in the list. Errors or tolerances may be introduced when interpreting numerical values, even if not explicitly described.

[0065] For ease of explanation, spatially relative terms (e.g., "below," "below," "lower," and "below," "above," and "upper," etc.) are used herein to describe the relationship of an element or feature to another element or feature illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientations shown in the figures, spatially relative terms are also intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, when the device in the figures can be flipped, an element described as "below," "below," or "below" to other elements or features will be oriented as "above" to other elements or features. Thus, the illustrative terms "below" and "below" can cover both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways, such as by rotating 90 degrees or in other orientations, and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0066] As used herein, unless otherwise expressly stated, “A and / or B” means A, B, or A and B. When preceding a list of components, expressions such as “at least one” may modify the entire list of components but may not modify individual components in the list. Unless otherwise specified, “C through D” as used herein means C (inclusive) through D (inclusive).

[0067] In the following description, the present disclosure will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate configurations according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0068] [Overall structure of the dishwasher]

[0069] In the following, the overall structure of the dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0070] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view of the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a simplified cross-sectional view that briefly shows the internal structure of the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure. Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 The front perspective view of the dishwasher with door 30 open.

[0071] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a housing 10 that constitutes the appearance.

[0072] For example, the housing 10 may include an upper panel 11, a left side panel 12, a right side panel 13, and a front panel 15 that define the appearance of the dishwasher 1, respectively.

[0073] The top panel 11, left side panel 12, right side panel 13 and front panel 15 can be integrally formed with each other, or they can be formed and assembled separately.

[0074] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a tub 20 installed in the interior space of the housing 10 and having a washing space 21 defining a washing target therein, wherein the front surface of the tub is open.

[0075] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a door 30 that opens / closes the open front surface of the tub 20.

[0076] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a base 90 disposed below the tub 2 and used to support the tub 2.

[0077] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a drive 40 located below the tub 20 to supply, collect, circulate, and discharge washing water for cleaning the washing target.

[0078] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a set of dish racks 50 removably disposed in the internal washing space 21 of the tub 20 to receive the washing target therein.

[0079] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to the invention may include a water sprayer 60, which is installed near the dish rack assembly 50 to spray washing water thereon for cleaning the washing target.

[0080] In this regard, the items to be washed in the cutlery shelf group 50 can be, for example, cutlery such as bowls, plates, spoons and chopsticks, and other cooking utensils. In the following text, unless otherwise stated, the items to be washed will be referred to as cutlery.

[0081] First, the tub 20 can be formed as a box shape with a fully open front surface, and has a construction so called a washing tub.

[0082] The washing space 21 can be confined within the tub 20. The open front surface of the tub 20 can be opened / closed via the door 30.

[0083] Bucket 20 can be formed by pressing a heat-resistant and moisture-proof metal sheet (e.g., stainless steel sheet).

[0084] In addition, multiple supports may be provided on the inner surface of the bucket 20 for supporting and installing functional components such as the cutlery shelf assembly 50 and the water sprayer 60, which will be described later, inside the bucket 20.

[0085] In one example, the drive 40 may include a reservoir 41 therein for storing wash water. Furthermore, the drive 40 may include a reservoir cover 42 separating the reservoir 41 from the tub 20. Additionally, the drive 40 may include a water supply device 43 for supplying wash water from an external source to the reservoir 41. Furthermore, the drive 40 may include a drain 44 for discharging the wash water from the reservoir 41 to the outside. Additionally, the drive 40 may include a wash pump 45 and a supply flow path 46 for supplying the wash water from the reservoir 41 to the spray nozzle 60.

[0086] The storage tank cover 42 can be set on top of the storage tank 41 and can be used to spatially separate the bucket 20 and the storage tank 41 from each other.

[0087] In addition, the storage tank cover 42 may have a plurality of collection holes defined therein for collecting washing water sprayed into the washing space 21 by the water sprayer 60 into the storage tank 41.

[0088] In other words, the washing water sprayed from the sprayer 60 toward the dishes can fall to the bottom of the washing space 21 and can be collected again into the storage tank 41 through the storage tank cover 42.

[0089] The washing pump 45 can be located on one side of the storage tank 41 and can be used to pressurize the washing water and supply the pressurized washing water to the sprayer 60.

[0090] One end of the washing pump 45 can be connected to the storage tank 41, and the other end can be connected to the supply flow path 46.

[0091] The washing pump 45 may be equipped with an impeller 451 and a motor 453. When power is supplied to the motor 453, the impeller 451 can rotate, and thus the washing water in the reservoir 41 can be pressurized and then supplied to the sprayer through the supply flow path 46.

[0092] Although not shown, a wash water heater 48 may be provided in the wash pump 45 and configured to heat the wash water supplied to the tub 20 during a wash cycle or a hot rinse cycle.

[0093] In one example, supply flow path 46 can be used to selectively supply wash water from wash pump 45 to sprayer 60.

[0094] For example, the supply flow path 46 may include a first supply flow path 461 connected to the lower spray arm 61, and a second supply flow path 463 connected to the upper spray arm 62 and the top nozzle 63.

[0095] The supply flow path 46 may be equipped with a supply flow path switching valve 465, which selectively opens / closes the supply flow paths 461 and 463.

[0096] In this regard, the supply flow path switching valve 465 can be controlled so that supply flow paths 461 and 463 open sequentially or simultaneously.

[0097] In one example, the sprayer 60 may be configured to spray washing water onto the tableware stored in the tableware shelf assembly 50.

[0098] More specifically, the sprayer 60 may include a lower spray arm 61 located below the tub 20 to spray washing water onto the lower dish rack 51.

[0099] In addition, the water sprayer 60 may include an upper spray arm 62 located between the lower cutlery shelf 51 and the upper cutlery shelf 52 to spray washing water onto the lower cutlery shelf 51 and the upper cutlery shelf 52.

[0100] In addition, the sprayer 60 may include a top nozzle 63 located on top of the tub 20 to spray washing water onto the top dish rack 53 or the upper dish rack 52.

[0101] Specifically, the lower spray arm 61 and the upper spray arm 62 can be rotatably arranged in the washing space 21 of the tub 20, and can spray washing water toward the tableware rack assembly 50 while rotating.

[0102] The lower spray arm 61 can be rotatably supported on top of the reservoir cover 42 so as to spray washing water toward the lower cutlery shelf 51 while rotating and positioned below the lower cutlery shelf 51.

[0103] In addition, the upper spray arm 62 can be rotatably supported by the spray arm holder 467 so as to spray washing water onto the tableware while rotating and positioned between the lower tableware shelf 51 and the upper tableware shelf 52.

[0104] In one example, although not shown, in order to improve washing efficiency, an additional device may be provided at the lower wall 25 of the tub 20 to redirect the washing water ejected from the lower spray arm 61 to the upward direction (redirecting along the U direction).

[0105] The detailed construction of the water sprayer 60 is known in the art. Therefore, a description of the specific construction of the water sprayer 60 will be omitted below.

[0106] A cutlery shelf assembly 50 for storing cutlery can be installed in the washing space 21.

[0107] The cutlery shelf assembly 50 can be configured to extend from or retract into the interior space of the bucket 20 through the open front surface of the bucket 20.

[0108] For example, in Figure 2 The image shows an embodiment in which the cutlery shelf assembly 50 is configured to include a lower cutlery shelf 51 located in the lower portion of the bucket 20 to accommodate relatively large cutlery, an upper cutlery shelf 5 located on top of the lower cutlery shelf 51 to accommodate medium-sized cutlery, and a top cutlery shelf 53 located on the top layer of the bucket 20 and capable of storing small cutlery, etc.

[0109] In the following description, dishwasher 1 includes examples of three types of dish racks as shown. However, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0110] Each of the lower cutlery shelf 51, the upper cutlery shelf 52, and the top cutlery shelf 53 can be configured to extend from or retract into the interior space of the bucket 20 through the open front surface of the bucket 20.

[0111] For this purpose, guide rails 54 can be respectively disposed on two opposing inner surfaces 26 and 27 constituting the inner surface of the barrel 20. As will be described below, by way of example, guide rails 54 may include an upper guide rail 542, a lower guide rail 541, and a top guide rail 543.

[0112] Wheels or rollers may be provided on the bottom of each of the lower cutlery shelf 51, upper cutlery shelf 52, and top cutlery shelf 53. Users can extend the lower cutlery shelf 51, upper cutlery shelf 52, and top cutlery shelf 53 from the interior space of the tub 20 through the open front surface of the tub 20 and place cutlery on them or easily remove washed cutlery.

[0113] The guide rail 54 can be a simple track-type fixed guide rail to guide the extension or retraction of the cutlery rack assembly 50, or it can be a telescopic guide rail that can guide the extension or retraction of the cutlery rack assembly 50 and simultaneously increase its extension distance as the cutlery rack assembly 50 extends further from the interior space of the container.

[0114] In one example, door 30 is configured to open / close the open front surface of bucket 20 as described above.

[0115] A hinge (not shown) around which the door 30 pivots to open or close the barrel 20 may be provided at the bottom of the open front surface. As an example, the door 30 may pivot about the hinge as a pivot axis in a top-to-bottom manner to open the barrel 20.

[0116] In this regard, a handle 31 for opening the door 30 and a control panel 32 for controlling the operation of the dishwasher 1 can be provided on the outer surface of the door 30.

[0117] As shown in the figure, the control panel 32 may include a display 33, which visually displays information such as the current operating status of the dishwasher 1.

[0118] In addition, the control panel 32 may include a button unit 34, which includes a selection button and a power button. The selection button is used to input the user's program selection operation, and the power button is used to input the user's operation to start and stop the dishwasher. The button unit 34 may be provided in the form of a physical button, or it may be provided in the form of a user interface located on the aforementioned display 33.

[0119] In one example, when the door 30 is closed, the rear panel that forms the inner surface of the door 30 can form a surface of the bucket 20, and when the door 30 is fully open, the rear panel can form a mounting surface for the lower cutlery shelf 51 that supports the cutlery shelf assembly 50.

[0120] Therefore, when the door 30 is fully opened downwards, the rear panel of the door 30 can form a horizontal plane that extends in the same direction as the guide rail 54 that guides the displacement of the lower cutlery shelf 51.

[0121] In one example, a detergent supply device for automatically supplying detergent to the interior of the drum 20 may be further mounted on the rear panel that forms the inner surface of the door 30.

[0122] Furthermore, the door position sensor 36 can be disposed on the outer top surface of the barrel 20 and can be configured to detect whether the door 30 is in a closed or open state. For example, the door position sensor 36 may include a door position sensor S_d or a latch sensor that detects the position of a door latch (not shown).

[0123] In one example, a dry air supply device 80 may be located below the tub 20 and may be configured to generate high-temperature or low-temperature dry air and supply it to the washing space 21 inside the tub 20.

[0124] As shown in the figure, the dry air supply device 80 can be configured to include a filter component 883 for filtering external air, a blower fan 825 for generating a dry air flow, a heater 84 for heating the dry air flow, and an airflow guide 83 disposed inside the barrel 20 to guide the dry air flow.

[0125] A dry air supply hole 254 can be defined in the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20 so that high-temperature dry air generated by the dry air supply device 80 can be introduced into the interior of the barrel 20 through the dry air supply hole.

[0126] Therefore, during the drying cycle S5, high-temperature or low-temperature drying air can be supplied from the drying air supply device 80 to the interior of the drum 20, which significantly improves the drying efficiency and sterilization effect of tableware compared to conventional dishwashers.

[0127] In one example, the dishwasher can be configured such that a portion of the airflow supplied to the interior of the tub 20 and moistened while drying dishes can be discharged to the outside, while the remainder can be drawn into the drying air supply unit 80. The discharge of the airflow can be achieved via a partial opening of the door 30 or via a separate air discharge device (not shown).

[0128] A conduit 81 for collecting humid air from the barrel 20 may be provided on the outer surface of the left wall 26 or the right wall 27 of the barrel 20.

[0129] In one example, the base 90 can provide a receiving space in which components of the dishwasher 1, such as the storage tank 41, are housed.

[0130] For this purpose, the base 90 may include an outer peripheral wall defining the outer boundary surface of the receiving space. More specifically, the outer peripheral wall of the base 90 may include a front wall, a rear wall, a left wall, and a right wall.

[0131] In addition, the barrel 20 can be directly or indirectly supported by the front wall, rear wall, left wall and right wall of the base 90.

[0132] In one example, the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may also include a heat pump system as a means for heating the washing water to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0133] The heat pump system can be installed together with the washing water heater 48, or it can be installed separately without the washing water heater 48.

[0134] As will be described later, the heat pump system provided in the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure can be arranged in a modular manner within the interior space of the base 90.

[0135] Furthermore, the heat pump system is configured to be modular as a single module, which can be fully and once received into and removed from the base 90.

[0136] Considering this construction, the heat pump system provided in the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure will be referred to as heat pump module 100.

[0137] Please refer to later Figure 4Describe the detailed configuration of the heat pump module 100.

[0138] [Illustrative configuration of a heat pump module]

[0139] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 4 A detailed configuration of a heat pump module 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[0140] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the heat pump module 100.

[0141] refer to Figure 4 The heat pump module 100 may include a compressor 110, a condenser 120, an expansion valve 140, and an evaporator 130.

[0142] The compressor 110, condenser 120, expansion valve 140 and evaporator 130 can be sequentially connected to each other via refrigerant line 150, and refrigerant line 150 provides a refrigerant flow path through which refrigerant can flow.

[0143] As an example, the refrigerant line 150 may include a first line 151 connecting the compressor 110 and the condenser 120 to each other, a second line 152 connecting the condenser 120 and the expansion valve 140 to each other, a third line 153 connecting the expansion valve 140 and the evaporator 130 to each other, and a fourth line 154 connecting the evaporator 130 and the compressor 110 to each other.

[0144] The refrigerant can be used as a working fluid to absorb or release heat, while circulating sequentially through the compressor 110, condenser 120, expansion valve 140 and evaporator 130, causing its phase to change from liquid to gas or from gas to liquid.

[0145] The compressor 110 is used to compress the refrigerant and discharge it under high temperature and high pressure. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 110 can be introduced into the condenser 120 through the first pipe 151.

[0146] The refrigerant can radiate heat QH as it flows through the condenser 120. The heat discharged from the condenser 120 can be used to heat the wash water to be supplied to the tank 20. As described below, based on the wash water heating mode, the condenser 120 can be selected as a heat source for heating the wash water alone or together with the wash water heater 48 disposed in the wash pump 45.

[0147] Therefore, each flow path through which the refrigerant and the wash water flow can pass can be arranged in the condenser 120. The refrigerant can dissipate heat, causing the phase to change from gas to liquid, and thus the refrigerant can exchange heat with the wash water as it flows through the condenser 120.

[0148] In this regard, the refrigerant that has flowed through the condenser 120 can be a mixture of liquid and gas with a very low gas content, or it can be a subcooled liquid.

[0149] The refrigerant discharged from the condenser 120 can expand as it flows through the expansion valve 140. Due to the expansion of the refrigerant, its temperature may decrease, and thus the refrigerant may become a mixture of gas and liquid.

[0150] The refrigerant discharged from the expansion valve 140 is introduced into the evaporator 130 through the third pipe 153, and while flowing through the evaporator 130, it exchanges heat with the air in the housing space of the base 90 to absorb heat from the air, thereby causing the refrigerant to evaporate and increasing the gas content in the refrigerant.

[0151] With the refrigerant already flowing out of the evaporator 130, the refrigerant can become a mixed gas or superheated gas with a very small liquid content.

[0152] The refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 130 can be reintroduced into the compressor 110 through the fourth pipe 154, where it can be compressed, converting the refrigerant into a high-temperature, high-pressure gas. Meanwhile, to prevent liquid refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 130 from being introduced into the compressor, the refrigerant that has already flowed through the fourth pipe 154 can flow through a gas-liquid separator (not shown) before being introduced into the compressor 110.

[0153] In this sequence, the refrigerant circulates through the heat pump module 100 to undergo a phase change, and thus, the refrigerant can absorb heat in the evaporator 130 and release heat in the condenser 120.

[0154] In one example, to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the refrigerant in the evaporator 130, it is preferable to allow a large amount of air to flow to the evaporator 130. For this purpose, the heat pump module 100 may also include a blower module 180 for blowing air toward the evaporator 130 to generate an airflow.

[0155] As will be described later, blower module 180 may include, for example, a blower fan 181 configured to accelerate air to generate airflow and a blower motor 182 configured to generate rotational driving force to rotate blower fan 181.

[0156] Additionally, as will be described later, blower fan 181 and blower motor 182, together with evaporator 130, can be housed in heat exchange conduit 170, which forms a passage for airflow to exchange heat with the refrigerant in evaporator 130.

[0157] In one example, the heat pump module 100 of the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may be configured to be directly mounted in the base 90 or modularized separately from the base 90 into a single module, and the single module may be completely and once installed in the receiving space of the base 90 and completely and once removed from the receiving space of the base 90 to the outside.

[0158] exist Figure 5 The accompanying drawings show a configuration in which the heat pump module 100 is modularized into a single module separate from the base 90, and the single module is completely and once installed in the receiving space of the base 90 and completely and once removed from the receiving space of the base 90 to the outside.

[0159] In the following description, this disclosure will be based on the configuration shown. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0160] like Figure 6 As shown, in order to modularize the heat pump module 100 into a single module separate from the base 90, and to completely and once install the single module in the receiving space of the base 90 and completely and once remove it from the receiving space of the base 90 to the outside, the heat pump module 100 may include a module base 160, on which at least the compressor 110, the evaporator 130 and the expansion valve 140 are jointly mounted.

[0161] The compressor 110, evaporator 130 and expansion valve 140 constituting the heat pump module 100 can be installed in the base 90 in a state where they are directly fastened to and supported by the module base 160.

[0162] The module base 160 can be arranged to make surface contact with the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90, and can be arranged on the base 90 so as to be directly supported by the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0163] However, the condenser 120 may be configured to be mounted on the module base 160 or directly or indirectly fixed to and supported on the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90, rather than on the module base 160.

[0164] Therefore, the compressor 110, evaporator 130 and expansion valve 140 constituting the heat pump module 100 can be directly mounted onto the module base 160 provided in the base 90, and thus can be indirectly mounted in the receiving space of the base 90 and indirectly supported thereon.

[0165] In one example, the heat pump module 100 of the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure can be configured to be fully and once inserted into and withdrawn from the base 90 through an open side surface of the base 90, so as to be fully and once installed in the receiving space of the base 90 and fully and once removed from the receiving space of the base 90 to the outside.

[0166] like Figure 6 As shown, the water jacket 71 can be attached to the outer surface of the right wall 27 of the example tub 20. Washing water supplied to the washing space of the tub 20 during washing and rinsing of dishes can be stored in the water jacket 71.

[0167] Additionally, a water softening device 72 for softening the washing water to be supplied to the storage tank 41 can be installed below the lower wall 25 of the tank 20 and near the water jacket 71.

[0168] Considering the positional constraints of the water jacket 71 and the water softening device 72 as described above, preferably, the heat pump module 100 is configured to extend from or retract into the interior space of the base 90 through an opening area, which is positioned to minimize interference between the heat pump module 100 and the water jacket 71 and the water softening device 72.

[0169] For this purpose, for example, the heat pump module 100 can be configured to extend from or retract into the receiving space of the base through the opening left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0170] Figure 6 An example modular structure of a heat pump module 100 according to this disclosure is shown.

[0171] First, the heat pump module 100 according to this disclosure may include a compressor 110 that compresses the refrigerant and discharges the refrigerant at high temperature and high pressure.

[0172] As shown in the figure, the compressor 110 constituting the heat pump module 100 can be embodied as an electric compressor with an integrated motor, wherein the compression unit for compressing the gaseous refrigerant and the motor for generating the rotational driving force provided to the compression unit are integrated with each other.

[0173] For example, the compressor 110 can be mounted on the module base 160 with its axis of rotation extending parallel to the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0174] A fastening tab 112 formed in the shape of a flange can be provided at the lower end of the compressor body 111 of the compressor 110, so that the compressor body 111 is mounted on the module base 160 in a standing position and fixed to the module base 160.

[0175] The fastening tab 112 of the compressor 110 can be securely fastened to the fastening boss 164 of the base plate 161 using a fastening device such as a bolt.

[0176] To reduce vibration or noise generated by the compressor 110, a buffer with predetermined elasticity can be disposed between the fastening tab 112 and the fastening boss 164.

[0177] In one example, the compressor 110 may be located in the space formed between the blower module 180 housed in the heat exchange pipe 170 and the main control panel 210, and located as close as possible to the air inlet of the heat exchange pipe 170.

[0178] Therefore, the compressor 110 can be exposed to the airflow flowing into the inlet of the heat exchange pipe 170, which can improve the cooling effect on the compressor 110.

[0179] In one example, the heat pump module 100 may include a condenser 120 that performs heat exchange between the refrigerant and the wash water.

[0180] As an example, the condenser 120 constituting the heat pump module 100 can be configured as a dual-pipe system, wherein the flow path of the washing water and the flow path of the refrigerant are formed together.

[0181] The condenser 120 can be configured to have a cylindrical external shape, so that the flow paths of the washing water and the refrigerant can be effectively formed therein.

[0182] Furthermore, the condenser 120 can be disposed in and connected to the base 90, and oriented such that its left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) is longitudinal, so that the condenser 120 is effectively and efficiently received in the receiving space of the base 90, which has a finite dimension in the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0183] In one example, the condenser 120, which has a cylindrical external shape, may be composed of separate bodies arranged along the longitudinal direction.

[0184] More specifically, the condenser 120, which consists of separate main bodies, may include a first main body 121 in which a water inlet pipe 123 is formed to introduce washing water to be heated.

[0185] As an example, the water inlet pipe 123 can be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the first body 121 and integrally formed therewith.

[0186] Additionally, the condenser 120, which consists of separate main bodies, may include a second main body 122 having a water outlet pipe 124 through which heated washing water is discharged.

[0187] As an example, the water outlet pipe 124 can be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the second body 122 and integrally formed therewith.

[0188] Although not shown, the washing water pipe 190 can be connected to each of the inlet pipe 123 and the outlet pipe 124. The washing water pipe 190 may include a first washing water pipe 191 and a second washing water pipe 192.

[0189] As an example, one end of the first washing water pipe 191 can be connected to the water inlet pipe 123 of the first body 121.

[0190] The other end of the first washing water pipe 191 can be connected to the inlet or outlet of the aforementioned washing pump 45.

[0191] In other words, the washing water before or after the washing pump 45 pressurizes can be introduced into the condenser 120 through the other end of the first washing water pipe 191.

[0192] Since the condenser 120 is located downstream of and connected to the washing pump 45, the washing water pressurized by the washing pump can be introduced into the inlet pipe 123 of the first body 121 through the first washing water pipe 191.

[0193] Alternatively, for example, one end of the second washing water pipe 192 can be connected to the water outlet pipe 124 of the second body 122.

[0194] The other end of the second washing water pipe 192 can be connected to the aforementioned supply flow path switching valve 465.

[0195] Therefore, heated washing water can be delivered to the sprayer 60 through the second washing water pipe 192 and then through the supply flow path switching valve 465.

[0196] In one example, in order to improve the heating efficiency of the washing water or the heat exchange efficiency with the washing water, the outlet pipe 124 and the inlet pipe 123 of the condenser 120 can be respectively set at the positions where they are most spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the condenser 120.

[0197] Therefore, based on the state shown in the figure, the water inlet pipe 123 of the condenser 120 can be positioned as close as possible to the front end of the first body 121.

[0198] In addition, the outlet pipe 124 of the condenser 120 can be located as close as possible to the rear end of the second body 122.

[0199] In one example, the condenser refrigerant tube in which the gaseous refrigerant is converted into a liquid refrigerant can be housed in the first body 121 and the second body 122 of the condenser 120.

[0200] For example, the condenser refrigerant pipe can be introduced into the condenser 120 through the front end of the first body 121.

[0201] The refrigerant tubes introduced into the condenser 120 can be formed as a multi-layer structure in which the tubes are bent multiple times or a coil structure in which the tubes are wound multiple times, in order to improve the heating efficiency of the washing water or the heat exchange efficiency with the washing water.

[0202] In one example, as shown, the condenser 120 may be positioned in front of the reservoir 41 and the washing pump 45 in the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0203] In one example, the heat pump module 100 may include an evaporator 130 into which refrigerant that has passed through the condenser 120 is introduced, and in which the liquid refrigerant changes phase to gaseous refrigerant.

[0204] As described above, the evaporator 130 is configured such that the refrigerant flowing through it undergoes a phase change while exchanging heat with the airflow in the containment space of the base 90.

[0205] Therefore, in a manner similar to that of the condenser refrigerant tubes received in the condenser, the evaporator 130 may include evaporator refrigerant tubes formed in a multi-row and multi-layer structure, wherein the tubes are bent multiple times.

[0206] Therefore, the heat exchange area between the refrigerant and the airflow that will exchange heat with the refrigerant can be maximized.

[0207] In one example, the evaporator refrigerant tube of evaporator 130 may be configured such that the refrigerant flowing therein may exchange heat with the internal air of the housing space of base 90 or with external air introduced into base 90 from the outside.

[0208] Figure 6 An embodiment is shown by way of example, wherein the evaporator refrigerant tube of the evaporator 130 is configured such that the refrigerant flowing therein exchanges heat with the interior air of the housing space of the base 90.

[0209] In other words, the internal air of the base 90 can exchange heat with the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 and its heat exchange fins, and then be discharged from the base 90 to the outside.

[0210] In one example, when the refrigerant and heat exchange fins in the evaporator refrigerant tubes of the evaporator 130 exchange heat with the internal air of the base 90, a flow path or channel needs to be formed so that the heat-exchanged air can be discharged to the outside.

[0211] In this respect, along the shortest path, the internal air should flow through the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 and out to the outside from the base 90.

[0212] Therefore, the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 can be located as close as possible to the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0213] In one example, in order to maximize the heat exchange efficiency with the internal air of the base 90, the evaporator refrigerant tube of the evaporator 130 can be housed in the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170, which forms a heat exchange flow path or heat exchange channel.

[0214] Therefore, with the evaporator refrigerant pipe and heat exchange fins housed in the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170, the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 can be positioned as close as possible to the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0215] An air outlet may be formed between a pair of pillars 9311 and may pass through the rear wall 93 of the base 90 in a manner corresponding to the pipe body 171.

[0216] The airflow that exchanges heat while flowing through the duct body 171 can flow through the outlet and be smoothly discharged to the outside from the base 90. In one example, a blower module 180 for accelerating the internal air of the base 90 to generate an airflow that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 can be disposed inside the duct body 171.

[0217] In this regard, for example, the blower module 180 may include only a single blower fan 181 and a single blower motor 182. Therefore, the increase in the volume of the heat exchange duct 170 and the amount of noise generated by the blower fan 181 can be minimized.

[0218] In one example, the heat pump module 100 may include an expansion valve 140 disposed between the second pipe 152 and the third pipe 153.

[0219] In the illustrated embodiment, the expansion valve 140 may be positioned in front of the compressor 110, as a location that minimizes its interference with the compressor 110 and the condenser 120.

[0220] In one example, the heat pump module 100 may include a module base 160 on which the compressor 110, condenser 120, evaporator 130 and refrigerant pipe 150, as described above, are mounted and supported.

[0221] More specifically, as shown in the figure, the module base 160 may include a plate-shaped substrate 161.

[0222] The compressor 110 and the evaporator 130 can be fixed together to the upper surface of the substrate 161, and the compressor 110 and the evaporator 130 can be supported together on it.

[0223] As described above, a plurality of fastening bosses may be formed on and integrally formed on the upper surface of the substrate 161, such that the compressor 110 and the evaporator 130 may be individually fastened to and supported on the substrate.

[0224] The heat pump module 100 can be configured to extend from or retract into the base 90 with the compressor 110 and evaporator 130 jointly fixed to the module base 160.

[0225] Additionally, the main control panel 210, which serves as the controller 200 described later, can be detachably mounted on the left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0226] The main control panel 210 controls the operation of electrical / electronic components by controlling the power supply to the washing pump 45, compressor 110, blower motor 182, etc.

[0227] Therefore, in order to minimize the impact from the water jacket 71, water softening device 72, storage tank 41 and washing pump 45 (water may leak from washing pump 45), the main control panel 210 can be located as far away as possible on the left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0228] Therefore, such as Figure 6 As shown, the main control panel 210 can extend along the outer edge of the left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0229] In addition, in order to minimize the damage caused by water leakage, the main control panel 210 can be located at a position spaced apart from the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90 in the upward direction (U direction).

[0230] However, the heat pump module 100 of this disclosure can be configured to extend from or retract into the base 90 via the left wall 94 of the base 90 on which the main control panel 210 is mounted.

[0231] Therefore, considering the fact that the main control panel 210 is located at a position where it interferes with the heat pump module 100 extending from or retracting into the base 90, the main control panel 210 can be configured to be at least partially mounted on and at least partially supported on the module base 160.

[0232] A pair of mounting ribs, serving as a support and fixing device for the main control panel 210, can be provided on the module base 160.

[0233] In one example, the lower surface of the substrate 161 of the module base 160 can be fully mounted on the base 90 in a state of surface contact with the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0234] The mounting surface to which the substrate 161 is connected in a surface contact state can be formed on the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0235] The mounting surface of the base 90 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the substrate 161 of the module base 160 and an area corresponding to the area size of the substrate 161 of the module base 160.

[0236] In one example, a guide rib 911 protruding from the bottom surface portion 91 in the upward direction (U direction) can be integrally formed with and disposed on the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0237] like Figure 6 As shown, the guide rib 911 can extend along the outer edge of the substrate 161 of the module base 160.

[0238] In addition, the guide rib 911 can be formed into a barrier shape to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the outer edge of the substrate 161.

[0239] Therefore, the location for installing the heat pump module 100 can be effectively guided by the guide ribs 911 of the base 90.

[0240] In addition, the guide ribs 911 of the base 90 can effectively prevent the heat pump module 100 from being removed from the correct position.

[0241] In addition, when the heat pump module 100 is moved horizontally in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) to be installed in the base and removed from the base, the direction of movement of the heat pump module 100 can be effectively guided by the guide ribs 911 of the base 90.

[0242] [Pipe connection structure of heat pump equipment and tank]

[0243] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 7 The connection structure of the pipes and conduits between the heat pump module 100 and the tank 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described in detail.

[0244] As described above, the condenser 120 can be a heat exchanger or heating device that heats the wash water by transferring heat from the refrigerant to the wash water during the washing cycle S2 and the heating rinse cycle S4.

[0245] In other words, the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can be configured as a heating device for heating the washing water alone or together with the washing water heater 48 during the execution of the washing cycle S2 and the heating rinse cycle S4, as described below.

[0246] As described above, the condenser 120 can be configured as a dual-tube structure, wherein the flow path of the wash water and the flow path of the refrigerant are formed together to create an effective heat exchange structure between the refrigerant and the wash water.

[0247] Alternatively, the condenser 120 may consist of separate main bodies arranged in the longitudinal direction.

[0248] In addition, the condenser 120, which consists of separate main bodies arranged in the longitudinal direction, may include a first main body 121, in which a water inlet pipe 123 is formed, through which washing water to be heated is introduced.

[0249] Additionally, the condenser 120, which consists of separate main bodies arranged in the longitudinal direction, may include a second main body 122 in which an outlet pipe 124 for discharging heated washing water is formed.

[0250] The washing water pipe 190 can be connected to the inlet pipe 123 and the outlet pipe 124 respectively.

[0251] One end of the first washing water pipe 191 can be connected to the water inlet pipe 123 of the first main body 121.

[0252] The other end of the first washing water pipe 191 can be connected to the inlet or outlet of the aforementioned washing pump 45.

[0253] In other words, the washing water before or after the washing pump 45 pressurizes can be introduced into the condenser 120 through the other end of the first washing water pipe 191.

[0254] Since the condenser 120 is located downstream of and connected to the washing pump 45, the washing water pressurized by the washing pump can be introduced into the inlet pipe 123 of the first body 121 through the first washing water pipe 191.

[0255] Alternatively, for example, one end of the second washing water pipe 192 can be connected to the water outlet pipe 124 of the second body 122.

[0256] The other end of the second washing water pipe 192 can be connected to the aforementioned supply flow path switching valve 465.

[0257] Therefore, the heated washing water can be delivered to the sprayer 60 through the second washing water pipe 192 and then through the supply flow path switching valve 465.

[0258] High-temperature washing water delivered to sprayer 60 is sprayed toward the tableware contained in tub 20, thus enabling the washing and rinsing of the tableware.

[0259] Washing water used for washing or rinsing dishes can fall from bucket 2 and be reintroduced into storage tank 4.

[0260] The washing water introduced into the storage tank 4 can be reintroduced into the washing pump 45.

[0261] The washing water reintroduced into the washing pump 45 can be pressurized by the washing pump 45, and the pressurized washing water can be reintroduced to the inlet pipe 123 of the condenser 120 through the first washing water pipe 191.

[0262] The washing water introduced into the condenser 120 through the water inlet pipe 123 can be reheated and exchange heat with the refrigerant in the condenser refrigerant pipe.

[0263] Through this washing water circulation process, heated washing water can be used to wash and rinse dishes, and washing water whose temperature drops below an appropriate level during washing and rinsing can be returned to the washing water heater 48 or condenser 120 and reheated therein.

[0264] In this regard, according to the present disclosure as described below, based on a washing water heating mode selected from a plurality of washing water heating modes, one of the washing water heater 48 and condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 can operate as a single heating source to heat the washing water individually, or the washing water heater 48 and condenser 120 can operate simultaneously to heat the washing water.

[0265] Furthermore, the dishwasher according to this disclosure can be configured such that when performing a particular washing water heating mode among a plurality of washing water heating modes, the particular washing water heating mode can be switched to another washing water heating mode according to the user's intention.

[0266] Please refer to later Figures 9 to 11b The following describes a detailed configuration of several washing water heating modes according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0267] [Configuration of the dishwasher's controller and control method]

[0268] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 8 The construction of the controller 200 constituting the dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[0269] like Figure 8 As shown, the dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a controller 200 for controlling each functional component.

[0270] The controller 200 may be provided in various forms, such as microcontrollers, microcomputers, control panels or microprocessors known in the art.

[0271] First, the controller 200 can be electrically connected to the button unit 34 to which user operation commands are input.

[0272] As described above, the button unit 34 may be provided in the form of a physical button or in the form of a user interface located on the aforementioned display 33.

[0273] When the user's power on / off control input, the user's washing program selection control, the user's option selection control, or the user's washing water heating mode selection / switching control is input to the button unit 34, the button unit 34 can send the corresponding electrical signal to the controller 200.

[0274] In response to user input of power on / off control, user input of washing program selection, user input of option selection, or user input of washing water heating mode selection / switching control, the corresponding visual information can be displayed on the display 33.

[0275] In particular, as in the prior art, the display 33 can also display information about the user's operation of selecting / switching the washing water heating mode.

[0276] When receiving an electrical signal from button unit 34, controller 200 can be configured to turn the power of dishwasher 1 on / off or control dishwasher 1, so that each cycle of dishwasher 1 is executed according to the selected washing program and the selected operating mode.

[0277] In particular, the operating modes may include multiple washing water heating modes that are performed during the washing cycle S2 and the heated rinsing cycle S4, as will be described later.

[0278] Although not shown, in addition to button unit 34, user operation commands can also be input via another input device such as the user's wireless terminal.

[0279] In addition, the controller 200 can be electrically connected to the washing pump 45.

[0280] When the controller 200 receives an electrical signal corresponding to an operation command for selecting a washing program and a washing water heating mode from the button unit 34, it can be configured to turn on the washing pump 45 so that the dishwasher 1 can perform washing according to the selected washing program and the selected operation mode.

[0281] When the washing pump 45 is turned on, the supply and circulation of washing water for washing or rinsing dishes can begin.

[0282] When performing the washing cycle S2 and the heated rinsing cycle S4, at least one of the heat pump module 100 or the washing water heater 48 can be selected as the heating source based on the selected washing water heating mode and in conjunction with the operation of the washing pump 45. Therefore, the heating of the washing water can be performed according to the selected washing water heating mode.

[0283] As will be described later, in response to the start of the washing pump 45 and the commencement of the supply of washing water, after the washing water temperature reaches a preset first target temperature T1 from the initial temperature T0, the controller 200 can be configured to shut down the washing pump 45 by cutting off the power supply to the washing pump 45.

[0284] In this respect, even after the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature T1, the heating of the washing water using the heat pump module 100 or the washing water heater 48 can continue, thereby enabling the steam generation process.

[0285] Additionally, the controller 200 can be electrically connected to the washing water heater 48.

[0286] As will be described below, a dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured such that when performing a washing cycle S2 or a heated rinsing cycle S4, at least one of a heat pump module 100 or a washing water heater 48 is used to heat the washing water.

[0287] As will be described later, depending on the selection of the washing water heating mode, at least one of the washing water heater 48 and the heat pump module 100 is used to heat the washing water.

[0288] In this respect, the washing water heater 48 can be embodied as an electric heater with a higher heating capacity than the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100.

[0289] In one example, the wash water heater 48 may include a sheathed heater that has excellent heating efficiency and is easy to control the amount of heat.

[0290] Therefore, as described below, the washing water heater 48 can be used alone or in combination with the heat pump module 100 as a heating source to shorten the heating time required to reach the first target temperature T1 or the second target temperature T2.

[0291] Additionally, the controller 200 can be configured to be electrically connected directly or indirectly to the heat pump module 100 to heat the washing water.

[0292] More specifically, the controller 200 can be electrically connected to the compressor 110 and the blower motor 182 of the blower module 180 to control the operation of the heat pump module 100.

[0293] In order to heat the washing water during the execution of the washing cycle S2 or the heated rinsing cycle S4, the controller 200 can be configured to control the power supplied to the compressor 110 and the blower motor 182, so that the compressor 110 and the blower motor 182 are turned on or off.

[0294] In this regard, in order to improve the heating efficiency of the washing water and ensure its heat exchange effect with the refrigerant, the controller 200 can be configured to simultaneously turn on both the compressor 110 and the blower motor 182 at the same time, and simultaneously turn off both the compressor 110 and the blower motor 182 at the same time.

[0295] In one example, controller 200 can be configured to be electrically connected to temperature sensor ST.

[0296] The temperature sensor ST is configured to measure the temperature of the washing water and generate an electrical signal that includes information about the temperature of the washing water, and transmits the generated electrical signal to the controller 200.

[0297] Therefore, the temperature sensor ST can be installed on the washing pump 45, the tub 20, the storage tank 41, or the washing water supply flow path.

[0298] As will be described later, the controller 200 can be configured to determine, based on an electrical signal received from the temperature sensor ST, whether the washing water temperature has reached a first target temperature T1 from the initial temperature T0, and whether the washing water temperature has reached a second target temperature T2.

[0299] In one example, controller 200 may be electrically connected to a memory and a timer. Controller 200 may be configured to retrieve from the memory operating conditions, temperature conditions, time conditions, etc., corresponding to each washing program and each washing water heating mode initially stored in the memory, and use the retrieved operating conditions and time conditions to generate control signals for controlling the progress and termination of the washing program.

[0300] The operating parameters of each component of the dishwasher 1 are set in the memory, which will be described later according to selection options such as adding or excluding washing programs and specific cycles that the user can select, for example, by pressing a button on the control panel 32 or a wireless terminal.

[0301] The operation parameters of various components of the dishwasher 1, such as the heat pump module 100, washing pump 45, washing water heater 47, and water supply device 43, can be set, including operation time, power supply, power intensity, on / off status, and washing water flow rate. A set of operation parameters executed for each washing program can be defined as the operation mode.

[0302] Therefore, the washing program can refer to the name of the operating mode of the dishwasher 1 displayed on the display 33 of the dishwasher 1 or on the screen of the wireless terminal.

[0303] In other words, the user can select a washing program, and the controller 200 of the dishwasher 1 can be configured to control the various components of the dishwasher 1 to sequentially execute the operating mode corresponding to the selected washing program.

[0304] Therefore, in this disclosure, washing procedures and operating modes are used separately for detailed description, but they may have similar meanings.

[0305] The washing programs can be set in various ways, including normal, standard, intensive, fine, half, automatic (half-load, intensive washing on only a few shelves), shortened, 1-hour and night programs (quiet).

[0306] The symbols for the washing program names may vary depending on the product. In particular, in a 1-hour program, the dishwasher operates for a duration of 1 hour or less, but in some cases it may operate for a duration of 2 hours or less.

[0307] In other words, when a user selects a washing program, the controller 200 can be configured to determine the operating mode of the dishwasher 1 corresponding to the selected washing program, and execute the corresponding washing program according to the parameters preset for the determined operating mode.

[0308] Specifically, as will be described below, the washing water heating mode of the dishwasher 1 may include a standard (normal) mode, in which the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 are used sequentially as heating sources to heat the washing water during the washing cycle S2 or the heating and rinsing cycle S4.

[0309] In addition, the washing water heating mode of the dishwasher 1 may include an energy-saving mode, in which the heat pump module 100 is used as a heating source to heat the washing water during the washing cycle S2 or the heating and rinsing cycle S4.

[0310] In addition, the washing water heating mode of the dishwasher 1 may include a quick washing water heating mode, in which the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 are used as heating sources to heat the washing water during the washing cycle S2 or the heating and rinsing cycle S4.

[0311] Figure 9 Example operating conditions of the washing pump 45 and heat pump module 100 according to the first embodiment, performed in a standard (normal) mode among a plurality of washing water heating modes, are shown.

[0312] like Figure 9As shown, when the washing cycle S2 or the heated rinsing cycle S4 begins, the controller 200 can be configured to turn on the washing pump 45 to supply and circulate washing water.

[0313] In this regard, the controller 200 can be configured to supply power to the compressor 110 and blower module 180 of the heat pump module 100 to turn on the heat pump module 100, either simultaneously with or immediately after the washing pump 45 is turned on.

[0314] In this respect, the controller 200 can be configured to cut off the power supply to the washing water heater 48, so that the washing water heater 48 remains in the off state.

[0315] Therefore, in the standard (normal) mode, the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 can be used to heat the washing water.

[0316] Although, as described above, only the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 is used to heat the washing water, the controller 200 can be configured to use the temperature sensor ST to check whether the washing water temperature has reached the first target temperature T1 from the initial temperature T0.

[0317] In this regard, the first target temperature T1 can be the temperature of the washing water, at which the washing water can smoothly wash and rinse the dishes.

[0318] For example, the first target temperature T1 can be a temperature within the range of 50°C to 70°C.

[0319] In response to the washing water temperature reaching the first target temperature T1, the controller 200 can be configured to cut off the power supply to the heat pump module 100 to shut down the heat pump module 100.

[0320] Therefore, the heating of the washing water can be stopped.

[0321] However, as will be described later, the dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can be configured to generate steam by additionally heating the washing water.

[0322] Therefore, when the steam generation option is included in the selected washing program, the controller 200 can be configured to start supplying power to the wash water heater 48 to turn on the wash water heater 48, so that the wash water can be additionally heated.

[0323] In this regard, the power supply to the heat pump module 100 can be cut off, so that the heat pump module 100 can remain in the off state.

[0324] When the washing water heater 48 described above is used to heat the washing water, the controller 200 can be configured to use the temperature sensor ST to check whether the washing water temperature has reached the second target temperature T2.

[0325] In this regard, the second target temperature T2 can be the steam generation temperature at which steam is generated.

[0326] For example, the second target temperature T2 can be set to 100°C, at which steam generation begins.

[0327] In response to a preset duration elapsed after the washing water temperature has reached the second target temperature T2, the controller 200 can be configured to shut down the washing water heater 48 by cutting off the power supply to the washing water heater 48, thereby ending the steam generation process.

[0328] In other words, in the standard (normal) mode, the heat pump module 100 can be used as a heat source until the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature T1, and the washing water heater 48 can be used as a heat source during the duration during which the washing water temperature rises from the first target temperature T1 to the second target temperature T2.

[0329] Therefore, the standard (normal) mode can be a washing water heating mode, in which the duration from the time point t0 when the washing water starts to be heated to the time point t1 when the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature T1 can be slightly increased, but the energy consumption during this duration can be reduced, while the duration from time point t1 to the time point t2 when the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 can be reduced, but the energy consumption during this duration can be slightly increased.

[0330] Figure 10a Example operating conditions of the washing pump 45 and heat pump module 100 according to the second-first embodiment, performed according to the first energy-saving mode among multiple washing water heating modes, are shown.

[0331] like Figure 10a As shown, when the washing cycle S2 or the heated rinsing cycle S4 begins, the controller 200 can be configured to turn on the washing pump 45 to supply and circulate washing water.

[0332] In this regard, the controller 200 can be configured to supply power to the compressor 110 and blower module 180 of the heat pump module 100 to turn on the heat pump module 100, either simultaneously with or immediately after the washing pump 45 is turned on.

[0333] In this respect, similar to the first embodiment, the controller 200 can be configured to cut off the power supply to the washing water heater 48, so that the washing water heater 48 remains in the off state.

[0334] Therefore, in the first energy-saving mode according to the second-first embodiment, the washing water can be heated using only the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100.

[0335] Although, as described above, the second-first embodiment uses only the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 to heat the washing water, the controller 200 can be configured to use the temperature sensor ST to check whether the washing water temperature has reached the first target temperature T1 from the initial temperature T0.

[0336] In this regard, as in the first embodiment, the first target temperature T1 can be the temperature of the washing water, at which the washing water can smoothly wash and rinse the tableware.

[0337] In response to the washing water temperature reaching the first target temperature T1, the controller 200 can be configured to cut off the power supply to the heat pump module 100 to shut down the heat pump module 100.

[0338] Therefore, the heating of the washing water can be stopped.

[0339] However, when the steam generation option is included in the selected washing program, the controller 200 can be configured to restore the power supply to the heat pump module 100 to turn on the heat pump module 100 so that the washing water can be heated additionally.

[0340] In this regard, the power supply to the washing water heater 48 can be cut off, so that the washing water heater 48 can remain in the off state.

[0341] Although, as described above, only the heat pump module 100 is used to heat the washing water, the controller 200 can be configured to use the temperature sensor ST to check whether the washing water temperature has reached the second target temperature T2.

[0342] In this regard, as in the first embodiment, the second target temperature T2 can be the steam generation temperature at which steam is generated.

[0343] In response to a preset duration elapsed after the washing water temperature has reached the second target temperature T2, the controller 200 can be configured to shut down the heat pump module 100 by cutting off the power supply to the heat pump module 100 in order to terminate the steam generation process.

[0344] In other words, in the first energy-saving mode according to the second-first embodiment, the heat pump module 100 can be used as a heating source until the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature T1 and then the second target temperature T2.

[0345] Therefore, the first energy-saving mode according to the second-first embodiment can be a washing water heating mode, wherein the duration from the start time point t0 of the washing water heating to the time point t3 when the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 can be slightly longer than the standard (normal) mode, but the total energy consumption during this duration can be reduced compared to the standard (normal) mode.

[0346] Figure 10b Example operating conditions of the washing pump 45 and heat pump module 100 according to the second embodiment, which are executed according to the second energy-saving mode among multiple washing water heating modes, are shown.

[0347] like Figure 10b As shown, when the washing cycle S2 or the heated rinsing cycle S4 begins, the controller 200 can be configured to turn on the washing pump 45 to supply and circulate washing water.

[0348] In this regard, the controller 200 can be configured to supply power to the compressor 110 and blower module 180 of the heat pump module 100 to turn on the heat pump module 100, either simultaneously with or immediately after the washing pump 45 is turned on.

[0349] In this respect, in the same manner as in the second-first embodiment, the controller 200 can be configured to cut off the power supply to the washing water heater 48, so that the washing water heater 48 remains in the off state.

[0350] Therefore, in the second energy-saving mode according to the second-second embodiment, the washing water can be heated using only the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100.

[0351] Although, as described above, the second embodiment uses only the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 to heat the washing water, the controller 200 can be configured to use the temperature sensor ST to check whether the washing water temperature has reached the first target temperature T1 from the initial temperature T0.

[0352] In this regard, as in the first embodiment, the first target temperature T1 can be the temperature of the washing water, at which the washing water can smoothly wash and rinse the tableware.

[0353] In response to the washing water temperature reaching the first target temperature T1, the controller 200 can be configured to cut off the power supply to the heat pump module 100 to shut down the heat pump module 100.

[0354] Therefore, the heating of the washing water can be stopped.

[0355] However, when the steam generation option is included in the selected washing program, the controller 200 can be configured to restore the power supply to the heat pump module 100 to turn on the heat pump module 100 so that the washing water can be heated additionally.

[0356] In this regard, the power supply to the washing water heater 48 can be cut off, so that the washing water heater 48 can remain in the off state.

[0357] Although, as described above, only the heat pump module 100 is used to heat the washing water, the controller 200 can be configured to use the temperature sensor ST to check whether the washing water temperature has reached the third target temperature T3.

[0358] In this respect, the third target temperature T3 can be higher than the first target temperature T1 and lower than the second target temperature T2.

[0359] As an example, the third target temperature T3 can be a temperature within the numerical range of 80°C to 90°C.

[0360] In response to the washing water temperature reaching the third target temperature T3, the controller 200 can be configured to shut down the heat pump module 100 by cutting off the power supply to the heat pump module 100, and simultaneously turn on the washing water heater 48 by starting the power supply to the washing water heater 48.

[0361] Therefore, the heating source used to heat the washing water to generate steam can be converted from the heat pump module 100 to the washing water heater 48.

[0362] When the washing water heater 48 is used to heat the washing water as described above, the controller 200 can be configured to use the temperature sensor ST to check again whether the washing water temperature has reached the second target temperature T2.

[0363] In this regard, as in the above embodiments, the second target temperature T2 can be the steam generation temperature at which steam is generated.

[0364] In response to a preset duration elapsed after the washing water temperature has reached the second target temperature T2, the controller 200 can be configured to shut down the heat pump module 100 by cutting off the power supply to the heat pump module 100 in order to terminate the steam generation process.

[0365] That is, in the second energy-saving mode according to the second embodiment, the heat pump module 100 can be used as a heating source until the washing water temperature reaches the third target temperature T3, and the washing water heater 48 can be used as a heating source until the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 from the third target temperature T3.

[0366] Therefore, in the second energy-saving mode according to the second-second embodiment, the duration from the start time point t0 of heating the washing water to the time point t3 when the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 can be slightly increased compared to the standard (normal) mode.

[0367] In other words, in the standard (normal) mode described above, at time point t1, the heating source for heating the washing water switches from the heat pump module 100 to the washing water heater 48. In the second energy-saving mode, at time point t2.1, the heating source for heating the washing water switches from the heat pump module 100 to the washing water heater 48. In this respect, time point t2.1 in the second energy-saving mode is later than time point t1 in the standard (normal) mode described above.

[0368] Therefore, in the second energy-saving mode, the power consumed in the standard (normal) mode until the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 at time point t2 may be much less than the power consumed in the standard (normal) mode. Furthermore, in the second energy-saving mode, it can be expected that the washing water temperature will rise sufficiently to approach the third target temperature T3 at time point t2, while at time point t2, the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 in the standard (normal) mode.

[0369] Therefore, at the time point t2 from the time point when the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 in the standard (normal) mode, the washing water heater 48 of the electric heater is used as a heating source to quickly heat the washing water, thereby effectively preventing the time delay.

[0370] Furthermore, in the second energy-saving mode according to the second-second embodiment, compared with the first energy-saving mode according to the second-first embodiment, the duration from the start time point t0 of heating the washing water to the time point t2.1 when the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 can be slightly reduced.

[0371] In addition, similar to the first energy-saving mode of the second-first embodiment described above, the second energy-saving mode of the second-second embodiment can be a washing water heating mode, wherein the total energy consumption can be reduced compared to the standard (normal) mode.

[0372] Figure 11a Example operating conditions of the washing pump 45 and heat pump module 100 performed according to the third-first embodiment under the first rapid washing water heating mode among multiple washing water heating modes are shown.

[0373] like Figure 11a As shown, in the same manner as in the above embodiment, when the washing cycle S2 or the heated rinsing cycle S4 begins, the controller 200 can be configured to turn on the washing pump 45 to supply and circulate washing water.

[0374] In this regard, the controller 200 can be configured to supply power to the compressor 110 and blower module 180 of the heat pump module 100 to turn on the heat pump module 100, either simultaneously with or immediately after the washing pump 45 is turned on.

[0375] Additionally, while the heat pump module 100 is turned on, the controller 200 can be configured to supply power to the washing water heater 48 to turn on the washing water heater 48.

[0376] As used in this article, the phrase “powering the second component while the first component is turned on” not only means that the power supply and the turning on occur at exactly the same time, but also that the difference between the power supply time and the turning on time is very small.

[0377] Therefore, in the first rapid washing water heating mode, the washing water can be heated by simultaneously operating both the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48.

[0378] When the washing water is heated by simultaneously operating both the condenser 120 and the washing water heater 48 of the heat pump module 100 as described above, the controller 200 can be configured to use the temperature sensor ST to check whether the washing water temperature has reached the first target temperature T1 from the initial temperature T0.

[0379] In this regard, as in the above embodiments, the first target temperature T1 can be the temperature of the washing water, at which the washing water can smoothly wash and rinse the tableware.

[0380] In response to the washing water temperature reaching the first target temperature T1, the controller 200 can be configured to cut off the power supply to each of the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 to simultaneously shut down both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48.

[0381] Therefore, the heating of the washing water can be stopped.

[0382] However, when the steam generation option is included in the selected washing program, the controller 200 can be configured to restore the power supply to the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48, so that the washing water can be heated additionally, thereby turning on both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 simultaneously.

[0383] When the washing water is heated by simultaneously operating both the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 as described above, the controller 200 can be configured to use the temperature sensor ST to check whether the washing water temperature has reached the second target temperature T2.

[0384] In this regard, as in the above embodiments, the second target temperature T2 can be the steam generation temperature at which steam is generated.

[0385] In response to a preset duration elapsed after the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2, the controller 200 can be configured to simultaneously shut down both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 by cutting off the power supply to both, thereby terminating the steam generation process.

[0386] In other words, in the first rapid washing water heating mode, both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 can be used as heating sources and operate simultaneously until the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature T1 and then reaches the second target temperature T2 from the first target temperature T1.

[0387] Therefore, the quick washing water heating mode can be a washing water heating mode, in which the duration from the heating start time t0 to the washing water temperature reaching the second target temperature T2 can be very short compared with the standard (normal) mode and energy-saving mode mentioned above. However, the total energy consumption may increase significantly compared with the standard (normal) mode and energy-saving mode mentioned above.

[0388] Figure 11b Example operating conditions of the washing pump 45 and heat pump module 100 performed according to the second rapid washing water heating mode among multiple washing water heating modes, according to the third-second embodiment, are shown.

[0389] like Figure 11b As shown, in the same manner as in the above embodiment, when the washing cycle S2 or the heated rinsing cycle S4 begins, the controller 200 can be configured to turn on the washing pump 45 to supply and circulate washing water.

[0390] In this regard, the controller 200 can be configured to supply power to the compressor 110 and the blower module 180 of the heat pump module 100 to turn on the heat pump module 100, either simultaneously with or immediately after the washing pump 45 is turned on.

[0391] In this regard, as in the first rapid washing water heating mode described above, the controller 200 can be configured to cut off the power supply to the washing water heater 48, so that the washing water heater 48 remains in the off state.

[0392] Therefore, in the second rapid washing water heating mode, the washing water can be heated using only the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100.

[0393] Although, as described above, only the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 is used to heat the washing water, the controller 200 can be configured to use the temperature sensor ST to check whether the washing water temperature has reached the fourth target temperature T4 from the initial temperature T0.

[0394] In this respect, the fourth target temperature T4 can be lower than the first target temperature T1 mentioned above.

[0395] As an example, the fourth target temperature T4 can be a temperature within the numerical range of 30°C to 40°C.

[0396] In response to the washing water temperature reaching the fourth target temperature T4, the controller 200 can be configured to start supplying power to the washing water heater 48 to turn on the washing water heater 48 while maintaining the power supply to the heat pump module 100.

[0397] Therefore, according to the second rapid washing water heating mode, at time point t0.1 when the washing water temperature has reached the fourth target temperature T4, the washing water can be heated by simultaneously operating both the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48.

[0398] In other words, the time point t0.1 at which the heating source for heating the washing water is switched from the heat pump module 100 to the washing water heater 48 in the second rapid washing water heating mode can be earlier than the time point t1 at which the heating source for heating the washing water is switched from the heat pump module 100 to the washing water heater 48 in the above-mentioned standard (normal) mode.

[0399] When the washing water is heated by simultaneously operating both the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 as described above, the controller 200 can be configured to use the temperature sensor ST to check whether the washing water temperature has reached the first target temperature T1 from the initial temperature T0.

[0400] In this regard, as in the above embodiments, the first target temperature T1 can be the temperature of the washing water, at which the washing water can smoothly wash and rinse the tableware.

[0401] like Figure 11b As shown, compared with the first rapid washing water heating mode described above, the duration from the heating start time t0 to the time point when the washing water temperature has reached the first target temperature T1 can be slightly increased.

[0402] In a manner similar to the first rapid washing water heating mode described above, in response to the washing water temperature having reached the first target temperature T1, the controller 200 can be configured to simultaneously shut down both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 by cutting off the power supply to both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48.

[0403] Therefore, the heating of the washing water can be stopped.

[0404] However, when the steam generation option is included in the selected washing program, the controller 200 can be configured to restore the power supply to the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48, so that the washing water can be heated additionally, thereby turning on both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 simultaneously.

[0405] When the washing water is heated by simultaneously operating both the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 as described above, the controller 200 can be configured to use the temperature sensor ST to check whether the washing water temperature has reached the second target temperature T2.

[0406] In this regard, as in the above embodiments, the second target temperature T2 can be the steam generation temperature at which steam is generated.

[0407] In response to a preset duration elapsed after the washing water temperature has reached the second target temperature T2, the controller 200 can be configured to simultaneously shut down both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 by cutting off the power supply to both, thereby terminating the steam generation process.

[0408] In other words, in the second rapid washing water heating mode, before the washing water temperature reaches the fourth target temperature T4, which is lower than the first target temperature T1, only the heat pump module 100 is used as a heating source. Then, both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 can be used as heating sources and operate simultaneously from the time point when the washing water temperature reaches the fourth target temperature T4 to the time point when the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2.

[0409] Therefore, in the second rapid washing water heating mode, compared with the above-mentioned standard (normal) mode and energy-saving mode, the duration from the heating start time t0 to the time point t1.1 when the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 can be greatly shortened, but compared with the duration from the heating start time t0 to the time point t1 when the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 in the first rapid washing water heating mode, it can be slightly increased.

[0410] However, the second rapid wash water heating mode can be a wash water heating mode in which only the heat pump module 100 is used to heat the wash water until the wash water temperature reaches the fourth target temperature T4, so that the total energy consumption can be slightly reduced compared with the first rapid wash water heating mode.

[0411] exist Figure 11bIn the second rapid wash water heating mode, the dishwasher can be configured such that the heat pump module 100 is used as a heat source for heating the wash water until the wash water temperature reaches the fourth target temperature T4. However, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto. Alternatively, in the second rapid wash water heating mode, the dishwasher can be configured such that the wash water heater 48 is used as a heat source for heating the wash water until the wash water temperature reaches the fourth target temperature T4.

[0412] In this regard, the heat pump module 100 can be turned off, and the washing water heater 48 can be turned on during the time period t0.1 to t1.1, that is, from the time point t0.1 when the washing water temperature reaches the fourth target temperature T4 to the time point t1.1 when the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2.

[0413] Therefore, the period during which the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 are simultaneously turned on occurs in the standard (normal) mode described above, while this period does not occur in the second rapid washing water heating mode. However, in the second rapid washing water heating mode, the time point t0.1 at which the heating source switches between the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 can be earlier than the time point in the standard (normal) mode.

[0414] Even under these circumstances, the duration from the start of heating time t0 to the time t1.1 when the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 can be increased compared to the first rapid washing water heating mode, but the total energy consumption can be slightly reduced compared to the first rapid washing water heating mode.

[0415] In one example, when the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure is configured to operate in at least one of the standard (normal) mode, the second energy-saving mode, or the second rapid wash water heating mode as described above, the wash water heater 48 and the heat pump module 100 operate sequentially or simultaneously in each of the standard (normal) mode, the second energy-saving mode, or the second rapid wash water heating mode.

[0416] However, the on and off times of each of the wash water heater 48 and the heat pump module 100 can be set to vary based on whether the selected mode is the standard (normal) mode, the second energy-saving mode, or the second rapid wash water heating mode.

[0417] Therefore, a trade-off between the energy savings achieved compared to a dishwasher 1 with only a washing water heater 48 and the savings in washing water heating time can be considered to select appropriate on and off times and provide them to the user.

[0418] Additionally, although not shown, the dishwasher according to this disclosure can be configured such that when the washing water is heated in one of the above-described standard (normal) mode, energy-saving mode, and quick washing water heating mode, the washing water heating mode can switch from the selected mode among the above-described standard (normal) mode, energy-saving mode, and quick washing water heating mode in response to the user's selection.

[0419] When the washing water is heated in a specific washing water heating mode, the mode in which the specific washing water heating mode is switched to another washing water heating mode can be called a combined washing water heating mode.

[0420] In one example, options can be additionally set for each washing program. Options could include setting the duration of the drying cycle, setting whether the storage mode is executed after the entire cycle or in a separate program, setting notifications to be on / off, etc.

[0421] Additionally, as mentioned above, options may also include a steam generation option.

[0422] In addition, the controller 200 can be configured to use a timer to measure the elapsed duration of each cycle, compare the measured elapsed duration with a pre-stored duration condition for each cycle, and determine, based on the comparison result, whether each cycle is completed and whether to stop each of the washing pump 45, the heat pump module 100, and the washing water heater 48.

[0423] In this regard, such as Figure 12 As shown, the cycle may include a preliminary washing cycle S1, a washing cycle S2, a rinsing cycle S3, a heated rinsing cycle S4, and a drying cycle S5.

[0424] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 12 to 17 The control method of the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure is described.

[0425] like Figure 12 As shown, the controller 200 is configured to control the overall progress of the washing program of the dishwasher 1, which is executed in the order of initial washing cycle S1, washing cycle S2, rinsing cycle S3, heating rinsing cycle S4 and drying cycle S5.

[0426] The initial washing cycle S1 refers to the cycle in which the washing pump 45 operates to circulate the washing water without detergent being supplied from the detergent supply device, and the amount of contamination is measured by a turbidity sensor (not shown) installed in the storage tank 41. The washing cycle S2 refers to the cycle in which heated washing water is circulated to wash the dishes while detergent is supplied from the detergent supply device.

[0427] In the rinsing cycle S3 and the heated rinsing cycle S4, while detergent is being injected from the detergent supply device, the washing water is circulated to remove detergent residue from the dishes.

[0428] When performing the rinsing cycle S3 and the heated rinsing cycle S4, the tableware can be heated to a predetermined temperature by supplying heated washing water to them.

[0429] Therefore, the drying cycle S5, which is performed after the rinsing cycle S3 and the heating rinsing cycle S4, can improve the drying efficiency of tableware and shorten the drying time.

[0430] Each of these detailed cycles can be omitted, or these detailed cycles can be combined with each other to be performed repeatedly depending on the selected washing program settings and options.

[0431] In this regard, the drainage cycle of the washing water used during each cycle and the water supply cycle of supplying new washing water to be used during each cycle can be included between cycles.

[0432] A water supply cycle can be performed before the initial washing cycle S1.

[0433] The drainage cycle and water supply cycle can be performed between the initial washing cycle S1 and the washing cycle S2, between the washing cycle S2 and the rinsing cycle S3, and between the heated rinsing cycle S4 and the rinsing cycle S3. The drainage cycle can be performed between the heated rinsing cycle S4 and the drying cycle S5.

[0434] The water supply cycle can be performed by controlling the aqua stop (not shown) installed in the water supply device 43 to supply washing water to the storage tank 41 through the water supply flow path, and the drainage cycle can be performed by controlling the drainer 44 connected to the storage tank 41 to discharge washing water to the outside of the dishwasher 1 through the drainage flow path.

[0435] In this regard, as mentioned above, these detailed cycles can be combined with each other, or a washing program consisting of only one cycle can be selected to be executed based on the user's options.

[0436] Figure 13 A control method for dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure is shown, and... Figure 13 The steps of the control method, which is executed in the washing cycle S2 and carried out by the controller 200, are illustrated by way of example.

[0437] However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and unless otherwise stated, the contents described below can be applied substantially the same as the heated rinsing cycle S4 in which the supply of washing water and the heating of washing water are performed together.

[0438] As shown in the figure, the controller 200 can perform step S21, which identifies the currently executing washing program and washing water heating mode before starting the operation of the washing pump 45 to execute the washing cycle S2.

[0439] More specifically, such as Figure 14 As shown, step S21, which identifies the washing program currently being executed before the start of operation of the washing pump 45, may include step S211: retrieving information about the washing program selected by the user from the memory and identifying the retrieved information about the washing program.

[0440] Additionally, step S21, which identifies the washing program currently being executed before the start of operation of the washing pump 45, may include step S212: determining whether the information about the washing program retrieved and identified in step S211 includes a washing water heating mode selection option.

[0441] In addition, when the selected washing program and whether it includes a washing water heating mode selection option have been identified in step S21, in step S22, the controller 200 can be configured to select a heating source according to the preset washing water heating mode or the selected washing water heating mode, and start the selected heating source to heat the washing water.

[0442] As described above, the heating source may include at least one of the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 and the wash water heater 48.

[0443] exist Figure 14 The detailed steps of step S22, which involves selecting a heating source and activating the selected heating source to heat the washing water, are shown in the figure.

[0444] refer to Figure 14 If, in step S212, it is determined that the washing water heating mode selection option is not included in the information about the washing program, in step S221, the controller 200 can be configured to select a heating source according to the normal mode and start the selected heating source to heat the washing water.

[0445] In other words, for example, according to the inventive concept of this disclosure, when the user selects a washing program that does not include a separate option for selecting a washing water heating mode, the standard (normal) mode according to the first embodiment described above can be set as the default washing water heating mode.

[0446] Please refer to later Figure 15 Describe the detailed steps of step S221.

[0447] In one example, when it is determined in step S212 that the washing water heating mode selection option is included in the information about the washing program, in step S222, the controller 200 can be configured to select a heating source based on the washing water heating mode selected from either the energy-saving mode or the quick washing water heating mode, and activate the selected heating source to heat the washing water.

[0448] In other words, the dishwasher according to the present invention can be configured to perform washing water heating according to the second-first embodiment or the second-second embodiment described above when the user selects the energy-saving mode as the washing water heating mode, and to perform washing water heating according to the third-first embodiment or the third-second embodiment described above when the user selects the quick washing water heating mode as the washing water heating mode.

[0449] Please refer to later Figure 16 and Figure 17 Describe the detailed steps of step S222.

[0450] In one example, after step S222 selects a heating source and starts the selected heating source to heat the washing water according to the washing water heating mode selected from the energy-saving mode or the quick washing water heating mode, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S223: determine whether to input an operation signal from the user via the button unit 34 to change the washing water heating mode.

[0451] In response to the determination in step S223 that an input manipulation signal for changing the washing water heating mode has been received, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S224: in response to the user's change in the washing water heating mode, change the heating source and activate the changed heating source to heat the washing water.

[0452] For example, in response to the recognition that washing water heating is currently in progress in standard (normal) mode, and a user operation to change the washing water heating mode to a fast washing water heating mode has been input, the controller 200 can be configured to change the heating source by supplying power to the washing water heater 48, which is currently in a closed state, thereby turning on the washing water heater 48.

[0453] Figure 15 The detailed configuration of step S221, which involves selecting a heating source and activating the selected heating source to heat the washing water in normal mode according to the first embodiment, is shown.

[0454] refer to Figure 15 The controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2211: select the heat pump module 100 as the heating source according to the normal mode, and turn on the heat pump module 100 by supplying power to the compressor 110 and the blower motor 182 of the heat pump module 100.

[0455] In this respect, the controller 200 can be configured to cut off the power supply to the wash water heater 48, so that, in normal mode, only the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 can be used as the heat source for the wash water, and thus the wash water heater 48 can remain in the off state.

[0456] Therefore, the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 can be used as a single heating source.

[0457] When the heat pump module 100 has been turned on in step S2211, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2212: start supplying power to the washing pump 45 to turn on the washing pump 45.

[0458] Although Figure 15 Step S2212 is shown to be executed after step S2211, but this is only an example. As described above, the dishwasher can be configured such that the washing pump 45 is turned on at the same time as the heat pump module 100 is turned on or before the heat pump module 100 is turned on.

[0459] When the washing pump 45 is turned on in step S2212, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2213: receive a signal from the temperature sensor ST, and determine whether the current temperature of the washing water has reached the first target temperature T1 from the initial temperature T0 based on the received signal.

[0460] As mentioned above, the first target temperature T1 is the temperature of the washing water that allows the washing water to wash and rinse the dishes smoothly, and it can be, for example, a temperature in the range of 50°C to 70°C.

[0461] When it is determined in step S2213 that the temperature of the washing water reaches the first target temperature T1, the controller 200 can be configured to execute step S2214: determine whether the steam generation option is included in the washing program pre-selected from the memory.

[0462] When it is determined in step S2214 that the steam generation option is not included in the pre-selected washing program, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2219: shut down the heat pump module 100 by cutting off the power supply to the heat pump module 100.

[0463] Therefore, the washing water can be heated.

[0464] In one example, when it is determined in step S2214 that the steam generation option is included in the pre-selected washing program, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2215: shut down the washing pump 45 by cutting off the power supply to the washing pump 45.

[0465] although Figure 15An example is shown in which the operation of the wash pump 45 is completely shut off to generate steam, but this is merely an example. Alternatively, the dishwasher can be configured to limit the power supply to the wash pump 45, causing the wash pump 45 to operate at a minimum RPM to generate steam.

[0466] Therefore, the circulation of washing water can be completely stopped, or the amount of washing water circulated can be minimized.

[0467] When the washing pump 45 is turned off in step S2215, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2216: cut off the power supply to the heat pump module 100 to turn off the heat pump module 100, and at the same time start the power supply to the washing water heater 48 to turn on the washing water heater 48.

[0468] In this way, the heating source used to heat the washing water to generate steam can be converted into a washing water heater 48.

[0469] When the heat pump module 100 is turned off and the washing water heater 48 is turned on in step S2215, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2217: receive a signal from the temperature sensor ST and determine whether the current washing water temperature has reached the second target temperature T2 based on the received signal.

[0470] As mentioned above, the second target temperature T2 can be the steam generation temperature, and can be set to 100°C, at which steam generation begins.

[0471] When the temperature of the washing water reaches the second target temperature T2 as determined in step S2217, the controller 200 can be configured to execute step S2218: wherein, after a predetermined steam generation duration, the washing water heater 48 is turned off by cutting off the power supply to the washing water heater 48.

[0472] As described above, turning off the washing water heater 48 in step S2218 can terminate the steam generation selection process according to the normal mode.

[0473] Figure 16 The detailed configuration of step S222a, which involves selecting a heating source and activating the selected heating source to heat the washing water in a first energy-saving mode, is shown according to the second-first embodiment.

[0474] Reference Figure 16 The controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2221a: select the heat pump module 100 as the heating source according to the first energy-saving mode, and turn on the heat pump module 100 by supplying power to the compressor 110 and the blower motor 182 of the heat pump module 100.

[0475] In this respect, the controller 200 can be configured to cut off the power supply to the washing water heater 48, so that, according to the first energy-saving mode, only the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 can be used as the washing water heating source, and thus the washing water heater 48 can remain in the off state.

[0476] Therefore, the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 can be used as a single heating source.

[0477] When the heat pump module 100 is turned on in step S2221a, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2222a: start supplying power to the washing pump 45 to turn on the washing pump 45.

[0478] Although Figure 16 Step S2222a is shown to be executed after step S2221a, but this is only an example. As described above, the dishwasher can be configured such that the wash pump 45 is turned on at the same time as the heat pump module 100 is turned on or before the heat pump module 100 is turned on.

[0479] When the washing pump 45 is turned on in step S2222a, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2223a: receive a signal from the temperature sensor ST, and determine whether the current temperature of the washing water has reached the first target temperature T1 from the initial temperature T0 based on the received signal.

[0480] As mentioned above, the first target temperature T1 is the temperature of the washing water that allows the washing water to wash and rinse the dishes smoothly, and it can be, for example, a temperature in the range of 50°C to 70°C.

[0481] When it is determined in step S2223a that the temperature of the washing water reaches the first target temperature T1, the controller 200 can be configured to execute step S2224a: determine whether the steam generation option is included in the washing program pre-selected from the memory.

[0482] When it is determined in step S2224a that the steam generation option is not included in the pre-selected washing program, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2228a: shut down the heat pump module 100 by cutting off the power supply to the heat pump module 100.

[0483] Therefore, the washing water can be heated.

[0484] In one example, when it is determined in step S2224a that the steam generation option is included in the pre-selected washing program, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2225a: shutting off the washing pump 45 by cutting off the power supply to the washing pump 45.

[0485] although Figure 16The illustration shows the operation of the wash pump 45 completely shut off to generate steam, but this is merely an example. Alternatively, the dishwasher can be configured to limit the power supply to the wash pump 45, causing the wash pump 45 to operate at a minimum RPM to generate steam.

[0486] Therefore, the circulation of washing water can be completely stopped, or the amount of washing water circulated can be minimized.

[0487] When the washing pump 45 is turned off in step S2225a, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2226a: maintain the power supply to the heat pump module 100 to maintain the heat pump module 100 in the on state.

[0488] Even under these conditions, the washing water heater 48 can remain off, allowing the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 to generate steam according to the first energy-saving mode.

[0489] Next, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2227a: receive a signal from the temperature sensor ST, and determine whether the current temperature of the washing water has reached the second target temperature T2 based on the received signal.

[0490] As mentioned above, the second target temperature T2 can be the steam generation temperature, and can be set to 100°C, at which steam generation begins.

[0491] When it is determined in step S2227a that the temperature of the washing water reaches the second target temperature T2, the controller 200 can be configured to execute step S2228a: wherein, after a predetermined steam generation duration, the heat pump module 100 is shut down by cutting off the power supply to the heat pump module 100.

[0492] As described above, turning off the heat pump module 100 in step S2228a can terminate the steam generation selection process based on the energy-saving mode.

[0493] In one example, although not shown, when the steam generation selection process is performed according to the second energy-saving mode described above, the following steps can be added between steps S2226a and S2227a: receiving a signal from the temperature sensor ST and determining whether the current temperature of the washing water has reached the third target temperature T3 based on the received signal; and when it is determined that the current temperature of the washing water has reached the third target temperature T3, switching the heating source used to heat the washing water to the washing water heater 48.

[0494] As described above, before the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2, the heating source is switched to the washing water heater 48. Compared with the first energy-saving mode, this can shorten the duration from the heating start time t0 to the time point t2.1 when the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 in the second energy-saving mode.

[0495] Figure 17 The detailed configuration of step S222b, which involves selecting a heating source and activating the selected heating source to heat the washing water in a first rapid washing water heating mode, is shown according to the third-first embodiment.

[0496] refer to Figure 17 In step S2221b, the controller 200 can be configured to select the combination of the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 as the heating source according to the first fast washing water heating mode, supply power to the compressor 110 and the blower motor 182 of the heat pump module 100 to turn on the heat pump module 100, and simultaneously supply power to the washing water heater 48 to turn on the washing water heater 48.

[0497] In this respect, the controller 200 can be configured to select both the heat pump module 100 and the wash water heater 48 as the heating source according to the first rapid wash water heating mode, so as to shorten the washing water heating time.

[0498] Therefore, a combined heating source including the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 and the wash water heater 48 can be used.

[0499] When the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 are turned on simultaneously in step S2221b, the controller 200 can be configured to execute step S2222b: start supplying power to the washing pump 45 to turn on the washing pump 45.

[0500] although Figure 17 Step S2222b is shown to be executed after step S2221b, but this is only an example. As described above, the dishwasher can be configured such that the wash pump 45 is turned on at the same time as the heat pump module 100 and the wash water heater 48 are turned on, or before the heat pump module 100 and the wash water heater 48 are turned on.

[0501] When the washing pump 45 is turned on in step S2222b, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2223b: receive a signal from the temperature sensor ST, and determine whether the current temperature of the washing water has reached the first target temperature T1 from the initial temperature T0 based on the received signal.

[0502] As mentioned above, the first target temperature T1 can be the washing water temperature at which the washing water can smoothly wash and rinse the dishes, and can be, for example, a temperature in the numerical range of 50°C to 70°C.

[0503] When it is determined in step S2223b that the temperature of the washing water reaches the first target temperature T1, the controller 200 can be configured to execute step S2224b: determine whether the steam generation option is included in the washing program pre-selected from the memory.

[0504] When it is determined in step S2224b that the steam generation option is not included in the pre-selected washing program, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2228b: simultaneously shutting off both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 by simultaneously cutting off the power supply to both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48.

[0505] Therefore, the washing water can be heated.

[0506] In one example, when it is determined in step S2224b that the steam generation option is included in the pre-selected washing program, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2225b: shutting off the washing pump 45 by cutting off the power supply to the washing pump 45.

[0507] although Figure 17 The illustration shows the washing pump 45 completely stopped to generate steam, but this is merely an example. Alternatively, the dishwasher can be configured to limit the power supply to the washing pump 45, causing it to operate at a minimum RPM for steam generation, as described above.

[0508] Therefore, the circulation of washing water can be completely stopped, or the amount of washing water circulated can be minimized.

[0509] When the washing pump 45 is turned off in step S2225b, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2226b: maintain the power supply to both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48, so that both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 remain in the on state.

[0510] Therefore, both the heat pump module 100 and the wash water heater 48 can continue to be used as heating sources for heating wash water to generate steam.

[0511] Next, the controller 200 can be configured to perform step S2227b: receive a signal from the temperature sensor ST and determine, based on the received signal, whether the current temperature of the washing water has reached the second target temperature T2.

[0512] As mentioned above, the second target temperature T2 can be the steam generation temperature, and can be set to 100°C, at which steam generation begins.

[0513] When the temperature of the washing water reaches the second target temperature T2 as determined in step S2227b, the controller 200 can be configured to execute step S2228b: wherein after a predetermined steam generation duration, the controller 200 simultaneously shuts down both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 by simultaneously cutting off the power supply to both the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48.

[0514] As described above, turning off the washing water heater 48 in step S2228b can terminate the steam generation selection process based on the rapid washing water heating mode.

[0515] In one example, although not shown, when the steam generation selection process is performed according to the second rapid washing water heating mode described above, in step S2221b, only one of the heat pump module 100 and the washing water heater 48 can be selected as the heating source, and power can be supplied to the selected heating source to turn it on.

[0516] In addition, when the steam generation selection process is performed according to the second rapid washing water heating mode, the method may also include the following steps before step S2223b: receiving a signal from the temperature sensor ST, and determining whether the current temperature of the washing water has reached the fourth target temperature T4 based on the received signal, and when it is determined that the current temperature of the washing water has reached the fourth target temperature T4, adding the heating source that is currently in the off state to the heating source to heat the washing water.

[0517] As described above, when the washing water is heated by a single heating source before the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature T1, the washing water heating mode is switched to a heating mode that uses a combination of heat pump module 100 and washing water heater 48 to heat the washing water. Compared with the first rapid washing water heating mode described above, the duration from the heating start time t0 to the time point t1.1 when the washing water temperature reaches the second target temperature T2 can be increased. However, compared with the first rapid washing water heating mode, the total energy consumption of the second rapid washing water heating mode can be slightly reduced.

[0518] While embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in more detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to these embodiments and can be modified in various ways within the scope of the technical spirit of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein are intended to describe, not limit, the technical concept of the present disclosure, and the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure is not limited by these embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments are not restrictive but illustrative in all respects. Furthermore, although the effects of the configurations of the present disclosure have not been explicitly described in the above description of the embodiments, it should be readily recognized that predictable effects from the above configurations are possible.

Claims

1. A dishwasher, the dishwasher comprising: A bucket having a washing space defined therein and containing tableware; A storage tank containing washing water to be supplied to the bucket; A washing pump configured to pressurize the washing water to be supplied to the tub; A wash water heater, wherein the wash water heater is used to heat the wash water to be supplied to the storage tank, and wherein the wash water heater is an electric heater; and A heat pump module is used to heat the washing water to be supplied to the storage tank. Specifically, based on the washing water heating mode, at least one of the heat pump module or the washing water heater is selected as the heating source for heating the washing water.

2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The washing water heating mode is selected from the normal mode, energy-saving mode, and quick washing water heating mode.

3. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein, Each of the heat pump module or the wash water heater selected as the heat source for heating the wash water has an operation start time and an operation stop time that are set to vary depending on whether the selected wash water heating mode is the normal mode, the energy-saving mode or the fast wash water heating mode.

4. The dishwasher according to claim 3, wherein, While the washing water is being heated using either the heat pump module or the washing water heater, the heating source for heating the washing water is switched at a heating source switching time point from that heating source to the other of the heat pump module and the washing water heater, or to a combination of the heat pump module and the washing water heater. In the rapid washing water heating mode, the heating source switching time is earlier than that in the normal mode. In the energy-saving mode, the heating source switching time is later than that in the normal mode.

5. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein, When the washing water is heated in one of the normal mode, the energy-saving mode, and the quick washing water heating mode, the washing water heating mode can be switched from one of the modes to one of the other two modes.

6. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein, When the selected washing water heating mode is the normal mode, the combination of the heat pump module and the washing water heater is selected as the heating source. The heat pump module heats the washing water while simultaneously stopping the operation of the washing water heater until the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature. The washing water is heated using the washing water heater, and the operation of the heat pump module is stopped until the washing water temperature reaches a second target temperature that exceeds the first target temperature. Specifically, the operation of the washing pump is stopped in response to the washing water temperature reaching the first target temperature.

7. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein, When the selected washing water heating mode is the energy-saving mode, the heat pump module is selected as the heating source, and the operation of the washing water heater is stopped.

8. The dishwasher according to claim 7, wherein, The heat pump module is used to heat the washing water until the washing water temperature reaches a first target temperature, and then reaches a second target temperature that exceeds the first target temperature. And / or Specifically, the washing pump stops operating when the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature.

9. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein, When the selected washing water heating mode is the rapid washing water heating mode, the combination of the heat pump module and the washing water heater is selected as the heating source.

10. The dishwasher according to claim 9, wherein, The washing water is heated using both the heat pump module and the washing water heater until the washing water temperature reaches a first target temperature, and then reaches a second target temperature exceeding the first target temperature. And / or Specifically, the washing pump stops operating when the washing water temperature reaches the first target temperature.

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