Dishwasher with heat pump

Abstract

The present invention provides a method for operating a dishwasher, the dishwasher (2) comprising: a cabinet housing a tub (8) for washing items therein; a heat pump system having a compressor (92), an evaporator (90) in heat exchange contact with a heat exchange medium, and a condenser (44) comprising a first passage (82) for circulating a washing liquid and a second passage (84) for circulating a refrigerant, where the first and second passages (82, 84) are in heat exchange contact with each other; a refrigerant flow changing device (86) adapted to change between a normal mode of the heat pump in which the condenser (44) is adapted to heat the wash liquid as it circulates through the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) and a reverse mode of the heat pump in which the condenser (44) is adapted to heat the wash liquid as it circulates through the second passage (82) of the condenser (44), and the refrigerant flow changing device (86) is adapted to change between the normal mode of the heat pump and the reverse mode of the heat pump. Wherein, in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to cool the washing liquid and the evaporator (90) is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium, and wherein, in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to cool the washing liquid and the evaporator (90) is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium; an electric heater arranged to heat the washing liquid; and a sump (48) for collecting the washing liquid. Operating the dishwasher (2) comprises heating the washing liquid in the washing cycle by operating the heat pump in the normal mode and / or by operating the electric heater, and then, depending on which type of heating is used in a previous washing liquid heating phase or in previous washing liquid phases, heating the washing liquid in the normal mode by operating the heat pump in the normal mode and / or by operating the electric heater. The heat pump is operated in the reverse mode to extract heat from the heated wash liquid.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a dishwasher having a heat pump.

[0002] US2020 / 0163525 A1 discloses a dishwasher having a heat pump, the heat pump having a reversing valve for changing the flow direction of the refrigerant, wherein the washing liquid from the sump can be circulated to a plurality of injection arms.

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher having improved energy efficiency and / or drying efficiency.

[0004] The present invention is defined in the independent claims respectively. A plurality of specific embodiments are set forth in the dependent claims.

[0005] According to claim 1, there is provided a method for operating a dishwasher, in particular a dishwasher as disclosed herein. The dishwasher includes: a cabinet that houses a basin for washing articles therein; a heat pump system having a compressor, an evaporator in thermal exchange contact with a heat exchange medium, and a condenser that includes a first passage for circulating a washing liquid and a second passage for circulating a refrigerant, wherein the first passage and the second passage are in thermal exchange contact with each other; a refrigerant flow changing device adapted to change between a normal mode and a reverse mode of the heat pump, wherein in the normal mode of the heat pump, the condenser is adapted to heat the washing liquid as the washing liquid circulates through the first passage of the condenser, and the evaporator is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium, and wherein in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser is adapted to cool the washing liquid, and the evaporator is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium; an electric heater arranged to heat the washing liquid; and a sump for collecting the washing liquid. The method includes: heating the washing liquid during a washing cycle by operating the heat pump in the normal mode and / or by operating the electric heater, and then, depending on which type of heating was used during a previous washing liquid heating stage or during a plurality of previous washing liquid stages, operating the heat pump in the reverse mode to extract heat from the heated washing liquid.

[0006] This can also include, for example, a case where the washing liquid is heated only by the electric heater and the heat pump is not operated in the normal mode to heat the washing liquid.

[0007] The "reverse mode" can be used for the regeneration of the heat exchange medium and / or for drying articles. In particular, the "reverse mode" may refer to operating the heat pump in a regeneration mode such that the refrigerant is heated at the condenser that operates as an evaporator in the reverse mode, and the refrigerant is cooled at the evaporator that operates as a condenser in the reverse mode (i.e., the heat exchange medium (described below) in the evaporator tank is heated by the refrigerant). Thus, the heat exchange medium can be regenerated, i.e., the solid phase (ice) of the heat exchange medium that may form during the normal operation of the heat pump can be melted.

[0008] Preferably, the refrigerant flow changing device has a refrigerant inlet and a refrigerant outlet, and the refrigerant flow changing device is adapted to fluidly connect the refrigerant inlet to a first pipe of the refrigerant circuit and fluidly connect the refrigerant outlet to a second pipe of the refrigerant circuit in a first switching state, and to fluidly connect the refrigerant inlet to the second pipe of the refrigerant circuit and fluidly connect the refrigerant outlet to the first pipe of the refrigerant circuit in a second switching state. The refrigerant flow changing device is preferably a four-way valve.

[0009] Preferably, the evaporator and / or the compressor and / or the expansion device and / or the refrigerant flow changing device are arranged in the bottom region or the base of the dishwasher. The evaporator is preferably arranged inside an evaporator tank that houses the heat exchange medium.

[0010] The evaporation tank is preferably arranged in the bottom region or the base of the dishwasher, preferably below the tub. The evaporator tank is preferably a closed tank for permanently storing the heat exchange medium. Preferably, the evaporator tank is configured such that no or substantially no heat exchange occurs with external components (such as the tub of the dishwasher). Thus, the evaporator tank can be enclosed by heat-insulating material.

[0011] Preferably, the heat exchange medium is adapted to change from a liquid phase to a solid phase and vice versa. In particular, when the heat pump is operated in the normal operation mode, the heat exchange medium is cooled and finally changes from the liquid phase to the solid phase to release heat. The heat released by the heat exchange medium heats the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator, and the refrigerant then evaporates. The heated refrigerant in the gas phase is sucked in by the compressor and delivered to the condenser. When the heat pump is operated in the reverse operation mode, the heat exchange medium is heated and finally changes from the solid phase to the liquid phase by absorbing the latent heat required for the phase change.

[0012] The washing cycle may include a washing phase (main washing phase), a hot rinse phase, and a drying phase. Optionally, a cold rinse phase is provided between the washing phase and the hot rinse phase. The hot rinse phase is preferably a phase in which a hot washing liquid containing a rinse aid is sprayed onto the articles in the tub. The drying phase preferably starts when the circulation of the washing liquid through the spraying device is stopped.

[0013] The dishwasher may include a filtering assembly (such as the lid element further mentioned below) disposed at the sump. The filtering assembly may act as a filter for the washing liquid returning to the sump (for example, after the washing fluid has been deployed in the tub via the spraying device).

[0014] The heat pump may be operated in a reverse mode during the washing phase and / or the cold rinse phase of the wash cycle. Preferably, the heat pump is operated in a reverse mode at the end of the washing phase and / or at the end of the cold rinse phase of the wash cycle.

[0015] Preferably, depending on one or more of the following: the amount of items to be washed, the amount of washing liquid in the dishwasher, the washing liquid temperature, the heat pump is operated in a reverse mode only during the washing phase, preferably at the end of the washing phase, or during the cold rinse phase of the wash cycle, preferably at the end of the cold rinse phase.

[0016] Preferably, depending on one or more of the following:

[0017] - the amount of items to be washed,

[0018] - the amount of washing liquid in the dishwasher,

[0019] - the washing liquid temperature,

[0020] The heat pump is operated in a reverse mode during the washing phase and the cold rinse phase of the wash cycle, preferably at the end of the washing phase and at the end of the cold rinse phase.

[0021] Preferably, operating the heat pump in a reverse mode additionally depends on the program selected by the user at the dishwasher or via a device (such as a smartphone) connected to the dishwasher.

[0022] If, for example, the washing liquid is heated only by an electric heater during the hot rinse phase or if no cold rinse phase is provided, it may not be necessary to regenerate the heat exchange medium by operating the heat pump in a reverse mode.

[0023] If, for example, the washing liquid was heated by an electric heater during a previous heating phase, the heat pump is not operated in a reverse mode during the washing phase and the cold rinse phase. When heating is performed only using an electric heater, preferably, the heat exchange medium does not freeze, i.e., no ice is formed in the evaporator tank.

[0024] If, for example, the washing liquid was heated by operating the heat pump in a normal mode during a previous heating phase, preferably, the heat pump is operated in a reverse mode during the washing phase and the cold rinse phase.

[0025] The washing liquid may be heated by operating the heat pump in a normal mode and operating the electric heater successively or at least partially simultaneously during a previous heating phase.

[0026] When operating the heat pump and the electric heater successively:

[0027] a) The main heating of the washing liquid is carried out by operating the heat pump in the normal mode, and the heating by the electric heater is auxiliary heating. That is, most of the heating is performed by the heat pump in the normal mode, and the electric heater only supports the heating. In this case, the heat pump can be operated in the reverse mode only during the washing phase and not during the cold rinse phase.

[0028] b) The main heating of the washing liquid is carried out by operating the electric heater, and the heating is assisted by operating the heat pump in the normal mode (auxiliary heating by the heat pump). That is, most of the heating is performed by the electric heater, and the heat pump in the normal mode only supports the heating. In this case, the heat pump can not be operated in the reverse mode during either the cold rinse phase or the washing phase.

[0029] When operating the heat pump and the electric heater at least partially simultaneously:

[0030] In this case, the heat pump can be operated in the reverse mode only during the cold rinse phase and not during the washing phase. This heating can be applied to the quick / rapid washing program of the dishwasher. Since the heating is achieved by the heat pump and the electric heater simultaneously, less ice may be formed in the evaporator tank. Therefore, it may be sufficient to regenerate the evaporator tank only by the heat pump during the cold rinse phase.

[0031] Preferably, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode at the end of the corresponding phase during a certain phase of the washing cycle (such as the washing phase and / or the cold rinse phase) before discharging the washing liquid. In particular, after extracting the heat of the washing liquid, the washing liquid can be discharged at the end of the phase of the washing cycle.

[0032] Therefore, the heat contained in the washing liquid can be used to heat the evaporator and thus melt the ice that may form in the evaporator tank.

[0033] Preferably, operating the heat pump in the reverse mode includes circulating the washing liquid from the sump, particularly from the inlet at the sump, back to the outlet at or within the sump.

[0034] When the washing liquid circulates through the sump, the washing liquid preferably does not pass through or flow through the interior of the basin.

[0035] When the washing liquid circulates through the sump, the washing liquid preferably bypasses any spraying device provided inside the basin for spraying the washing liquid onto the items in the basin.

[0036] "Bypassing the spraying device" preferably means that when the heat pump is operated in reverse mode and the washing liquid is guided along the washing liquid cooling path, then no washing liquid is guided to the spraying device. Accordingly, the article is not contacted by and not cooled by the washing liquid supplied via the spraying device. For example, a valve may be arranged to prevent the flow of washing liquid to the spraying device, or the following flow controller may be controlled such that the washing fluid outlet connected to the spraying device or any spraying arm of the spraying device may be closed.

[0037] The "interior" of the tub preferably is the area above the sump, more preferably the area above a filter (or any filter) at the bottom of the tub. The filter and the surrounding bottom wall of the tub preferably represent the bottom of the tub and thus the lower surface of the "interior" of the tub.

[0038] Preferably, the dishwasher further includes a washing liquid cooling path for circulating the washing liquid from an inlet at the sump through a first passage of the condenser for selectively cooling the washing liquid in reverse mode of the heat pump or heating the washing liquid in normal mode of the heat pump, and returning it from there to the sump via an outlet at or within the sump (e.g., the sump nozzle described herein).

[0039] In the washing liquid cooling path, guiding the washing liquid "back to the sump" from the first passage of the condenser may mean that the washing liquid is directly guided back to the sump via an outlet at or within the sump, i.e., preferably not guided through the interior of the tub or having an open flow path within the interior of the tub. In this case, the washing liquid is preferably supplied through an outlet at or within the sump below the bottom of the tub.

[0040] There is further provided a dishwasher, which is particularly adapted to implement the method disclosed herein (see dishwasher claims and below). The dishwasher comprises: a cabinet that houses a tub for washing articles therein; a heat pump system having a compressor, an evaporator in thermal exchange contact with a heat exchange medium, and a condenser, the condenser comprising a first passage for circulating a washing liquid and a second passage for circulating a refrigerant, wherein the first passage and the second passage are in thermal exchange contact with each other; a refrigerant flow change device adapted to change between a normal mode and a reverse mode of the heat pump, wherein, in the normal mode of the heat pump, the condenser is adapted to heat the washing liquid as the washing liquid circulates through the first passage of the condenser, and the evaporator is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium, and wherein, in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser is adapted to cool the washing liquid, and the evaporator is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium; an electric heater arranged to heat the washing liquid; a sump for collecting the washing liquid; and a control unit adapted to control the operation of the dishwasher during a washing cycle. The control unit is adapted to heat the washing liquid during the washing cycle by operating the heat pump in the normal mode and / or by operating the electric heater, and then, depending on which type of heating was used in a previous washing liquid heating stage or in previous washing liquid stages, operate the heat pump in the reverse mode to extract heat from the heated washing liquid.

[0041] Preferably, the control unit is adapted to operate the heat pump in reverse during a washing stage and / or a cold rinse stage of the washing cycle, preferably at the end of the washing stage and / or at the end of the cold rinse stage.

[0042] Preferably, depending on one or more of the following: the amount of articles to be washed, the amount of washing liquid in the dishwasher, the washing liquid temperature, the control unit is adapted to operate the heat pump in the reverse mode only during the washing stage, preferably at the end of the washing stage, and / or during the cold rinse stage of the washing cycle, preferably at the end of the cold rinse stage.

[0043] The control unit is preferably further adapted to operate the heat pump in the reverse mode depending on a program selected by the user at the dishwasher or via a device connected to the dishwasher, such as a smartphone.

[0044] The dishwasher may further comprise a washing liquid cooling path having an inlet at the sump, a first passage, and an outlet at the sump, the first passage for selectively cooling the washing liquid in the reverse mode of the heat pump or heating the washing liquid in the normal mode of the heat pump in the condenser.

[0045] Additionally, another method for operating a dishwasher is provided. The dishwasher includes: a cabinet that houses a basin for washing articles therein; a heat pump system having a compressor, an evaporator in thermal exchange contact with a heat exchange medium, and a condenser that includes a first passage for circulating a washing liquid and a second passage for circulating a refrigerant, wherein the first passage and the second passage are in thermal exchange contact with each other; a refrigerant flow change device adapted to change between a normal mode and a reverse mode of the heat pump, wherein in the normal mode of the heat pump, the condenser is adapted to heat the washing liquid as the washing liquid circulates through the first passage of the condenser, and the evaporator is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium, and wherein in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser is adapted to cool the washing liquid, and the evaporator is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium; a sump for collecting the washing liquid; and a washing liquid cooling path that is a circulation loop having an inlet at the sump and an outlet at or within the sump. Operating the dishwasher includes: heating the washing liquid by operating the heat pump in the normal mode during a washing phase of a wash cycle, then operating the heat pump in the reverse mode to extract heat from the heated washing liquid and circulate the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path, and then heating the washing liquid by operating the heat pump in the normal mode during a hot rinse phase of the wash cycle.

[0046] Accordingly, the heat contained in the washing liquid can be used to heat the heat exchange medium and the evaporator, and thus melt any ice that may form in the evaporator sump.

[0047] Preferably, when circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path, the washing liquid is directly directed back to the sump via the outlet at or within the sump, preferably without an open flow path within the interior of the basin. Accordingly, the washing liquid circulates along the washing liquid cooling path without cooling the basin / the interior of the basin. Preferably, the washing liquid cooling path includes the first passage of the condenser.

[0048] Preferably, the method further includes: after heating the washing liquid during the hot rinse phase, operating the heat pump in the reverse mode and circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path.

[0049] Preferably, a cold rinse phase is provided between the washing phase and the hot rinse phase, and more preferably, the method includes operating the heat pump in the reverse mode and circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path during the cold rinse phase.

[0050] During the washing phase or at the end of the washing phase and / or during the cold rinse phase or at the end of the cold rinse phase and / or during the hot rinse phase or at the end of the hot rinse phase, before discharging the washing liquid at the end of the respective phase, the heat pump is preferably operated in the reverse mode and the washing liquid is circulated along the washing liquid cooling path.

[0051] That is, after extracting the heat of the washing liquid by operating the heat pump in the reverse mode, the washing liquid can be discharged at the end of the phase of the washing cycle.

[0052] Furthermore, a dishwasher is provided, which includes: a cabinet that houses a tub for washing articles therein; a heat pump system having a compressor, an evaporator in thermal exchange contact with a heat exchange medium, and a condenser, the condenser including a first passage for circulating the washing liquid and a second passage for circulating the refrigerant, wherein the first passage and the second passage are in thermal exchange contact with each other; a refrigerant flow changing device adapted to change between a normal mode and a reverse mode of the heat pump, wherein, in the normal mode of the heat pump, the condenser is adapted to heat the washing liquid when the washing liquid circulates through the first passage of the condenser, and the evaporator is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium, and wherein, in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser is adapted to cool the washing liquid, and the evaporator is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium; a sump for collecting the washing liquid; a washing liquid cooling path that is a circulation loop having an inlet at the sump and an outlet at or within the sump; and a control unit adapted to control the operation of the dishwasher during the washing cycle. The control unit is adapted to heat the washing liquid by operating the heat pump in the normal mode during the washing phase of the washing cycle, then operate the heat pump in the reverse mode to extract heat from the heated washing liquid and circulate the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path, and then heat the washing liquid by operating the heat pump in the normal mode during the hot rinse phase of the washing cycle.

[0053] The dishwasher may include a spraying device provided inside the tub and configured to spray the washing liquid onto the articles in the tub. When the washing liquid circulates along the washing liquid cooling path, the spraying device is preferably bypassed.

[0054] Washing liquid cooling path arrangement:

[0055] The washing liquid cooling path may form a single flow path with one inlet and one outlet, or may include several branches (such as the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch as described below), each of which has its own outlet, such that multiple sections of the washing liquid cooling path extend differently.

[0056] The washing liquid is circulated along the washing liquid cooling path by operating a circulation pump, preferably a variable speed pump.

[0057] Preferably, the washing liquid cooling path is configured to circulate the washing liquid from the sump back to the sump. Alternatively or additionally, the washing liquid cooling path is configured to circulate the washing liquid from the sump to a basin outlet inside the basin to cool the inside of the basin. That is, the washing liquid cooling path may include a basin outlet and an open flow path section inside the basin or a flow path section that exchanges heat with the inside of the basin, such that the circulated washing liquid exchanges heat with the inside of the basin and returns to the sump via the basin.

[0058] The washing liquid preferably circulates along the washing liquid cooling path and in particular circulates through the sump and / or the basin such that the items loaded in the dishwasher are not contacted by the cooled washing liquid.

[0059] Thus, in addition to or instead of regenerating the heat exchange medium by circulating the washing liquid through the sump, a "reverse mode" can be used to cool the inside of the basin by circulating the washing liquid through the basin.

[0060] When the washing liquid is circulated through the basin, especially during the drying phase, in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the washing liquid is heated by the heat of the basin / structure of the dishwasher and thus the basin is cooled. Then, the heat extracted from the basin / structure of the dishwasher is transferred from the washing liquid to the refrigerant in the condenser, via the refrigerant to the evaporator, and from the refrigerant to the heat exchange medium in the evaporator. Thus, by cooling the basin, the remaining heat in the basin / structure of the dishwasher can be extracted and used for the regeneration of the heat exchange medium.

[0061] Furthermore, when the washing liquid is circulated through the basin, in the reverse mode, the drying of the items during the drying phase can be improved. In particular, the moisture in the air contained in the basin condenses when contacting the cooled inside of the basin, and the drying of the washed items is improved.

[0062] For the purposes of this document, the term "washing liquid" refers to the liquid used during the washing phase and the liquid used during the rinsing phase and the liquid used (circulated) "only" for regeneration and / or drying purposes when regenerating the heat exchange medium and / or improving drying by cooling the basin (inside).

[0063] The heat pump can be operated in a reverse mode and can extract heat from the washing liquid and transfer the heat to the heat exchange medium, even if the heat exchange medium does not need to be regenerated (i.e., melting of the freezing heat and / or heating of the heat exchange medium). For example, if only electrical heating of the washing liquid by an electric heater was provided in a previous heating step, the heat exchange medium was not cooled (and thus no ice was formed) to transfer heat from the heat exchange medium to the washing liquid. Nevertheless, the heat exchange medium can be heated by extracting heat from the washing liquid (e.g., for drying purposes as described herein).

[0064] The heat exchange medium is preferably a liquid. Preferably a liquid having a liquid / solid transition phase at a certain temperature such that a liquid / solid transition can be achieved in the evaporator and at the temperature of the refrigerant in the normal operating mode, and such that a solid / liquid transition can be achieved in the evaporator and at the temperature of the refrigerant in the reverse operating mode. Thereby, heat can be extracted or deposited in the heat exchange medium corresponding to the latent heat of the medium. The heat exchange medium can be water or water mixed with salts that increase the latent heat and / or change the transition temperature, or paraffin.

[0065] The basin is preferably made of metal (such as steel), and / or the sump is preferably made of plastic. When the washing liquid is circulated through the sump, the washing liquid preferably does not contact the basin, and thus the basin is not or is substantially not cooled by the washing liquid. When the washing liquid is circulated through the basin, the washing liquid preferably contacts the inner wall of the basin and thus cools the basin.

[0066] Preferably, the washing liquid cooling path includes: a first cooling branch connecting a first passage of the condenser to an outlet at or within the sump and / or a second cooling branch connecting the first passage of the condenser to the basin outlet for cooling the interior of the basin, wherein in particular the washing liquid guided along the second cooling branch returns to the sump via the basin. Additionally, the dishwasher can further include a hydraulic circuit arrangement having at least one controllable component, wherein, by control of the control unit, the at least one controllable component is adapted to circulate the washing liquid pumped from the sump along the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch.

[0067] The washing liquid preferably circulates along the first cooling branch during the washing phase and / or the cold rinse phase for regeneration of the heat exchange medium.

[0068] Preferably, the washing liquid circulates along the second cooling branch during the drying phase of the wash cycle to cool the interior of the basin and improve the drying effect. In particular, if the last heating of the washing liquid has been performed by operating the heat pump, the washing liquid circulates along the second cooling branch.

[0069] If the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch are provided, the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch may be separate cooling branches, where each cooling branch is connected to a separate outlet of the first passage of the condenser. Alternatively, the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch may share the same outlet at the first passage of the condenser and have at least a partially common flow path downstream of the first passage of the condenser, the flow path bifurcating into the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch at a bifurcation point.

[0070] Preferably, the first passage of the condenser is arranged upstream of the flow controller or the flow manifold, and the flow controller or the flow manifold preferably includes at least outlet A and / or outlet B, where the first cooling branch includes outlet A connecting the first passage of the condenser to an outlet at or within the sump, and / or where the second cooling branch includes outlet B connecting the first passage of the condenser to an outlet inside the interior of the basin. More preferably, the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch have a common flow path section upstream of the flow controller or the flow manifold.

[0071] The flow controller or the flow manifold may be a device for guiding the washing liquid along different flow paths.

[0072] The "flow manifold" may include a plurality of valves adapted to guide the washing liquid along different flow paths (such as the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch). The flow manifold may have one flow path for each spray arm (such as the lower spray arm, the middle spray arm, and the upper spray arm) of the spray device of the dishwasher. Preferably, a valve is arranged in each flow path upstream of the spray arm for opening and closing the flow of the washing liquid to each spray arm.

[0073] The "flow controller" may include a plurality of washing fluid outlets, such as outlet A and / or B and / or one or more outlets connected to one or more spray arms of the spray device for spraying the washing liquid onto the articles. The flow controller may include a dedicated outlet for each of the lower spray arm, the middle spray arm, and the upper spray arm. In the case of providing outlet A and B and the outlets for the lower spray arm, the middle spray arm, and the upper spray arm, the flow controller preferably includes a total of 5 outlets. In the case of only providing outlet A, the flow controller preferably includes a total of 4 outlets. These washing fluid outlets are preferably arranged at the bottom of the basin and more preferably integrated in the sump.

[0074] The flow controller may include a positioning device and a disk rotatably arranged relative to the plurality of washing fluid outlets, wherein the disk includes a plurality of orifices arranged to selectively close and open the plurality of washing fluid outlets of the sump and / or outlet A and / or B during rotation of the disk. When the positioning device aligns at least one of the plurality of orifices of the disk with at least one of the washing fluid outlets, washing liquid is allowed to pass from the flow controller along each aligned washing fluid outlet. For example, when the positioning device aligns at least one of the plurality of orifices of the disk with outlet A and / or B, washing fluid is allowed to pass from the flow controller along the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch respectively. Similarly, when the positioning device aligns at least one of the plurality of orifices of the disk with at least one of the washing fluid outlets connected to the spraying device, the washing fluid is supplied from the flow controller to the basin through the washing fluid outlet via the corresponding spraying device.

[0075] The control unit is preferably adapted to control the flow controller or the flow manifold such that washing liquid is directed along one or more of the washing fluid outlets.

[0076] In an alternative water flow arrangement, the first passage of the condenser is arranged upstream of the flow controller or the flow manifold, wherein the flow controller or the flow manifold includes at least one (washing fluid) outlet connected to the spraying device, and wherein the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch branches downstream of the first passage of the condenser and upstream of the flow controller or the flow manifold. In this case, the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch do not include the flow controller or the flow manifold.

[0077] Preferably, the flow controller or the flow manifold has a closed position in which no washing liquid can pass through any outlet of the flow controller or the flow manifold.

[0078] Each of the branch paths of the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch may include a valve element, such as an on / off valve.

[0079] Alternatively, a first cooling branch and a second cooling branch are provided, and the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch branch from a common flow path downstream of the first passage of the condenser and upstream of the flow controller or the flow manifold (from the flow connection between the condenser and the flow controller). For example, the common flow path further includes a bifurcation point that bifurcates into the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch. Preferably, one or more valves are arranged at the bifurcation point, such as a three-way valve.

[0080] The valve is preferably controllable by a control unit such that the washing liquid can be selectively directed along the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch and / or through the flow controller or flow manifold.

[0081] Preferably, the first passage of the condenser is arranged downstream of the flow controller or flow manifold, wherein the flow controller or flow manifold includes at least one outlet connected to the inlet of the first passage of the condenser. Preferably, the flow path downstream of the first passage of the condenser branches into a first cooling branch connected to an outlet at or within the sump and a second cooling branch connected to an outlet within the interior of the tub. If three outlets (i.e., one outlet for each spray arm) are provided as well as the above-mentioned outlet connected to the first passage of the condenser, the flow controller preferably has at least 4 outlets in total.

[0082] Preferably, the first cooling path and the second cooling path have a common flow path from the sump inlet at the sump of the circulation flow path to the point at which the flow path branches into the first cooling path and the second cooling path downstream of the first passage of the condenser. In the case where the first cooling path and the second cooling path are provided, each of the first cooling path and the second cooling path may include a valve element (e.g., an on / off valve in each branch), or a valve element (such as a two-way valve) may be provided at the branching point for selectively directing the washing liquid along the first cooling path and / or the second cooling path.

[0083] Preferably, the same circulation pump is used to circulate the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path and the circulation flow path. Alternatively, a second circulation pump may be provided for the circulation flow path. The first circulation pump and / or the second circulation pump may be variable speed pumps such that the liquid flow rate can be controlled, for example such that the flow rate of the washing liquid through the tub nozzles and / or the lower spray device is decreased or increased.

[0084] The dishwasher preferably includes: a first circulation pump and a second circulation pump (the above-mentioned circulation pumps), a circulation flow path including an inlet provided at the sump and a flow controller or flow manifold including at least one outlet connected to the spray device for spraying the washing liquid into the interior of the tub and for supplying the washing liquid back to the sump. The first circulation pump is preferably configured to circulate the washing liquid along the circulation flow path, and the second circulation pump is preferably configured to circulate the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path, in particular along the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch.

[0085] Since the second circulation pump does not circulate the washing liquid through the spraying device, and in particular does not circulate the washing liquid to one or more of the lower spraying arm, the middle spraying arm and / or the top spraying arm, the pressure required to circulate the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path (i.e., the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch) is reduced compared to the circulation of the washing liquid along the circulation flow path.

[0086] Therefore, the second circulation pump can be smaller (i.e., lower power) than the first circulation pump. Accordingly, the second circulation pump consumes less energy compared to the first circulation pump. Thus, energy can be saved compared to a configuration having a single circulation pump for the washing liquid cooling path and the circulation flow path.

[0087] Instead of the washing liquid cooling path having the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch, the dishwasher may further include a circulation flow path having an inlet provided at the sump and a flow controller or flow manifold including at least an outlet A and / or an outlet B, wherein the outlet A is connected to an outlet at or within the sump, and / or wherein the outlet B is connected to an outlet inside the interior of the tub.

[0088] Accordingly, when heat exchange is required, the washing liquid only flows through the first passage of the condenser. This results in less pump energy consumption and less fouling of the condenser.

[0089] The washing liquid cooling path preferably includes a controllable component, which is a control valve arranged upstream of the first passage of the condenser, wherein the control unit is adapted to control the control valve such that the washing liquid from the sump is directed along the washing liquid cooling path and / or along the circulation flow path. The control element can be a valve element, preferably an electronic valve. Alternatively, a valve element can be provided in each of the washing liquid cooling path and the circulation flow path.

[0090] The washing liquid cooling path and the circulation flow path can have at least a partially common flow path downstream of the sump and / or upstream of the first passage of the condenser.

[0091] The flow path downstream of the sump and upstream of the first passage of the condenser can bifurcate into a circulation flow path and a washing liquid cooling path at a bifurcation point. Preferably, a control valve (such as a three-way valve) is arranged at the bifurcation point.

[0092] Alternatively, the dishwasher comprises a flow controller or a flow manifold arranged upstream of a first passage of the condenser and having at least an outlet A and an outlet B, and a circulation flow path which comprises: an inlet provided at the sump and an outlet inside the bowl, wherein the inlet of the flow controller or the flow manifold is connected to the inlet of the circulation flow path at the sump, and wherein the washing liquid cooling path comprises an outlet A connected to the inlet of the first passage of the condenser. Further, the circulation flow path may comprise an outlet B which bypasses the condenser and is connected to the outlet inside the bowl.

[0093] In this case, when the washing liquid circulates along the washing liquid cooling path via the outlet A of the flow controller or the flow manifold, the washing liquid only flows through the first passage of the condenser. By circulating the washing liquid through the outlet A, the washing liquid is cooled. The cooled washing liquid in the sump can be circulated along the circulation flow path via the outlet B into the inside of the bowl and the interior volume of the bowl to cool the bowl.

[0094] The control unit is preferably adapted to control the flow controller or the flow manifold such that the washing liquid circulates alternately through the outlet A (and thus through the first passage of the condenser) or the outlet B, or at least partially simultaneously through the outlets A and B.

[0095] Preferably, the dishwasher comprises a flow controller or the flow controller having one or more outlets connected to one or more spray arms of the spraying device, wherein the control unit is adapted to control the flow controller such that the washing liquid circulating through the flow controller is directed to the one or more spray arms of the spraying device to spray the washing liquid onto the articles in the bowl. When the heat pump is operated in the normal mode, the washing liquid is preferably directed through the spraying device such that the heated washing liquid is sprayed onto the articles received in the bowl.

[0096] The spraying device preferably comprises a plurality of outlets connected to the spray arms, such as one outlet connected to each of the first spray arm, the second spray arm and the third spray arm. Preferably, the first spray arm is a lower spray arm arranged at the bottom of the bowl, the second spray arm is a middle spray arm arranged in the middle of the bowl, and the third spray arm is an upper spray arm arranged at the top of the bowl.

[0097] Preferably, the circulation pump for circulating the washing liquid to the spraying device is the same circulation pump as the circulation pump for circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path (in particular along the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch).

[0098] The control unit can be adapted to control the flow controller such that, during the circulation of the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path, the one or more outlets connected to the one or more spray arms are closed so that no washing liquid passes through the one or more outlets of the flow controller.

[0099] The control unit is preferably adapted to cause the washing liquid to circulate from an inlet at the sump back to an outlet at or within the sump, in particular along a first cooling branch, during the drying phase, in addition to circulating through the tub, in particular before and / or after performing the circulation through the interior of the tub.

[0100] Drying phase:

[0101] Preferably, during the drying phase of the wash cycle, the washing liquid circulates through the interior of the tub, in particular along a second cooling branch.

[0102] Preferably, in addition to the circulation along the second cooling branch, the circulation along the first cooling branch is also performed during the drying phase. The circulation along the first cooling branch can be performed at the start of the drying phase, while the circulation along the second cooling branch can be performed after or at least partially simultaneously with the circulation along the first cooling branch during the drying phase.

[0103] Thus, the washing liquid can be cooled during the circulation along the first cooling branch, and then the cooled washing liquid can circulate through the tub via the second cooling branch.

[0104] Since the washing liquid is cooled during the circulation along the first cooling branch and thus has a reduced temperature, the cooling efficiency of the washing liquid circulating along the second cooling branch for cooling the tub is increased.

[0105] The dishwasher can include an internal air circulation path for circulating air within the tub, wherein the air circulation is initiated by starting a blower during the drying phase. Preferably, the air circulation is performed during the operation of the heat pump in the reverse mode and during the circulation of the washing liquid through the tub (i.e., the second heat exchange mode b)), more preferably after the completion of the circulation of the washing liquid through the sump (i.e., the first heat exchange mode a)).

[0106] Preferably, the air circulation path includes an inlet and an outlet each connected to the interior of the tub, wherein the blower is arranged within the air circulation path. The inlet and the outlet are preferably arranged at the side wall of the tub. Preferably, the inlet and the outlet are arranged at opposite side walls of the tub. The inlet can be arranged in the top region of the tub / tub side wall, while the outlet can be arranged in the bottom region of the tub / tub side wall.

[0107] The air at the bottom can be cooled by the second heat exchange mode b), and the cooled air can be circulated to the top region of the basin. The hot air from the top circulates to the bottom region and can be cooled by the cooled washing liquid introduced into the interior of the basin. Thus, the internal air circulation can assist in cooling the air within the basin and thus assist in drying the articles. As a side effect, the heat extracted from the hot air within the basin can be transferred to the heat exchange medium, and thus the heat exchange medium can be regenerated, for example, by melting the frozen heat exchange medium and / or heating the (liquid) heat exchange medium.

[0108] Preferably, the basin opening is provided automatically after the drying phase is completed. For example, the basin opening is achieved by at least partially opening the door of the dishwasher. Due to the opening of the basin, in particular the opening of the door, the warm air (still having residual moisture) can flow out of the basin and the interior of the basin cools. Thus, the drying of the articles is further improved. The basin or the door can be automatically closed after a predetermined time period has elapsed.

[0109] When the washing liquid circulates through the interior of the basin, the heat pump, the compressor of the heat pump, and / or the blower of the air circulation path are preferably operated continuously or in a pulsed manner, and / or the compressor and the blower are operated at least partially simultaneously.

[0110] "Pulsed operation" means that the component operates alternately in an on or off state, for example, the blower starts for 10 minutes and then shuts off for 10 minutes. Pulsed operation saves energy.

[0111] In the case where no internal air circulation path is provided, the basin opening is preferably provided during the drying phase. For example, the door of the dishwasher can be at least partially automatically opened during the drying phase, where preferably, when the circulation of the washing liquid through the basin is completed, the door opens. The opening of the door allows for air exchange between the interior of the basin and the surrounding environment. Thus, the cooling of the basin and the drying of the articles are improved. Preferably, the door remains open at least until the drying phase is completed. After the drying phase ends, the door can be automatically closed, especially after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0112] Preferably, during the circulation of the washing liquid through the interior of the basin, the air within the basin is cooled via the cooled washing liquid supplied into the interior of the basin to dehumidify the air in the basin. During the circulation of the washing liquid through the basin, the washing liquid is preferably heated by exchanging heat with the air within the basin and / or the interior of the basin, and the washing liquid is cooled by exchanging heat with the heat exchange medium. Thus, the circulation through the basin improves the drying efficiency and can further result in improved regeneration of the heat exchange medium. In particular, the heat contained in the air within the basin (from the hot dishes) is transferred to the heat exchange medium.

[0113] Preferably, at the start of the drying phase and / or after discharging the washing liquid during the final rinse phase, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the blower is started (and / or the washing liquid is circulated through the tub (i.e., in the second heat exchange mode b)). Preferably, at the end of the final rinse phase, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode and the washing liquid used during the final rinse phase is circulated to cool the washing liquid so that heat is transferred from the washing liquid to the refrigerant and ultimately to the heat exchange medium (as described herein). That is, during the predetermined period of time, the heat pump is operated and the washing liquid is cooled. This cooled washing liquid can be used to cool the interior of the tub during the initial phase of the drying phase. Then (after the predetermined period of time) the blower is started to further cool the interior (air) of the tub.

[0114] The "operating components" can be, for example, all components of the heat pump, or all components for circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path, in particular along the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch in the first heat exchange mode and / or the second heat exchange mode, or, for example, the blower for circulating air within the tub (if the dishwasher includes a closed drying circuit).

[0115] Sump nozzle / tub nozzle:

[0116] Preferably, the outlet at or within the sump is a sump nozzle at the sump located below the bottom of the tub or an outlet in the bottom wall or side wall of the sump, and / or the outlet within the tub is a tub nozzle, which is arranged within the tub volume / interior at the bottom of the tub or at the side wall of the tub such that water flows along the side wall of the tub, or at a section of the fluid path arranged within the tub for supplying the washing liquid to the spraying device.

[0117] Preferably, the section of the fluid path extends preferably vertically or substantially vertically from the side wall of the dishwasher to the middle or top spray arm. In this case, the tub nozzle is preferably arranged such that the washing liquid leaving the tub nozzle flows along the side wall of the tub into the sump.

[0118] Preferably, the dishwasher includes a cover element arranged at the bottom of the tub, above the sump, wherein the tub nozzle and / or the sump nozzle are at least partially integrated in the cover element.

[0119] The lid element is preferably adapted to cover at least a part of the sump. Preferably, at least a part of the lid element is arranged above and / or covers the flow manifold or the flow controller. The flow manifold or the flow controller may be arranged at the sump, preferably integrated in the sump. The lid element may include a plurality of outlets, each of which is aligned with an outlet of the flow manifold or the flow controller. Thus, the washing liquid supplied through any outlet of the flow manifold or the flow controller is guided through the outlets of the lid element.

[0120] Preferably, the lid element has a part formed as a filter, which is adapted to filter the washing liquid flowing from the interior of the basin to the sump.

[0121] The lid element and the sump nozzle and / or the basin nozzle may be formed as a single piece, preferably made of plastic material.

[0122] The sump, in particular the flow controller or manifold fluidly connected to and / or integrated in the sump, may include a plurality of washing fluid outlets, which are connected to a washing liquid conduit system having one or more spraying devices. In particular, each spraying device of the plurality of washing fluid outlets includes one outlet, and includes outlet A and / or outlet B.

[0123] The sump includes at least one or the outlet A and / or one or the outlet B, wherein the outlet A is fluidly connected to the sump nozzle via a flow channel, and / or the outlet B is fluidly connected to the basin nozzle. The outlet A may extend vertically or substantially vertically from the sump, and the side wall of the outlet A includes an orifice fluidly connecting the outlet A to the flow channel.

[0124] Preferably, the lid element extends above these washing fluid outlets, and the lid element includes sump attachments, each of which is sized and shaped to fit over a respective washing liquid outlet of the sump to connect each of the plurality of washing fluid outlets to a respective spraying device and / or the sump nozzle and / or the basin nozzle. In particular, the sump attachments extend from the lower surface of the lid element facing the washing fluid outlets.

[0125] Preferably, the lid element includes a hub extending from the upper side of the lid element, wherein the hub is adapted to connect one of the plurality of outlets or a washing fluid outlet of the plurality of outlets to a spraying device for a lower spray arm. The hub is preferably made in one piece with the lid element.

[0126] Preferably, the sump nozzle and / or one or the flow channels connected to the sump nozzle are arranged at the lower surface of the lid element, and / or the basin nozzle is arranged at the top surface of the lid element.

[0127] The sump nozzle and / or the flow channel are preferably arranged below the interior of the tub, i.e., facing away from the interior of the tub. The washing liquid flowing through the sump nozzle preferably does not flow through the interior of the tub and thus does not contact the articles therein.

[0128] The tub nozzle is preferably arranged inside the interior of the tub, i.e., the washing liquid leaving the tub nozzle is guided through the interior of the tub, in particular for cooling the interior of the tub. The tub nozzle is preferably adapted such that the washing liquid sprayed out from the nozzle does not contact the articles loaded in the dishwasher. Preferably, the tub nozzle sprays the washing liquid onto the bottom of the tub.

[0129] The cover element may include a first part integrated in the cover element and a second part integrated in the sump, wherein the first part and the second part are configured such that when the cover element is mounted at the sump, the first part and the second part form a flow channel for guiding the washing liquid from outlet A via the sump nozzle into the sump. Preferably, the first part is formed as one piece with the cover element, and / or the second part is formed as one piece with the sump.

[0130] Preferably, the flow controller is arranged below the cover element, and / or the cover element includes a plurality of outlets, each of which is assigned to an outlet of the flow controller.

[0131] Condenser:

[0132] Preferably, the condenser is arranged at the side wall of the cabinet housing. The condenser may be arranged inside the cabinet housing, on the inner side facing the cabinet side wall and / or on the outer side of the tub. Preferably, when considering the normal operating position of the dishwasher, the condenser is arranged at the right side wall of the cabinet housing.

[0133] Preferably, the condenser extends in a vertical or substantially vertical plane.

[0134] The inlets and outlets for the refrigerant and the washing liquid of the condenser may be arranged in the bottom region of the condenser, preferably, the inlets and outlets are arranged at the lowest or substantially lowest vertical position of the condenser.

[0135] Preferably, the condenser includes a first section and a second section each extending vertically or substantially vertically, and a third section connecting the first section and the second section in the shape of an arc, wherein preferably, the apex of the arc is the highest vertical point of the condenser. Alternatively or additionally, the third section forms an arc with an angle of 180° or substantially 180°.

[0136] Preferably, the condenser is a tube-in-tube condenser, which includes an inner tube forming the second (or first) passage of the condenser and an outer tube forming the first (or second) passage of the condenser, and wherein the inner tube has a smaller cross-section disposed within the outer tube having a larger cross-section, and wherein, in particular, respectively, within the outer tube, the refrigerant or the washing liquid flows around the inner tube, and wherein, within the inner tube, the washing liquid or the refrigerant flows.

[0137] The flow directions in the inner tube and the outer tube are preferably opposite to each other. The inner tube and the outer tube may have a circular cross-section, wherein the smaller tube has a smaller diameter and the larger tube has a larger diameter. However, the two tubes may also have any other shape.

[0138] The inner tube may have a single circular tube or may have a plurality of tubes arranged in parallel within the outer tube.

[0139] The outer tube is preferably made of a plastic material, and / or the inner tube is preferably made of a metallic material (such as copper).

[0140] The condenser, in particular the outer tube of the condenser, may be enclosed by a heat-insulating layer.

[0141] The inner tube may include at least two pipes arranged parallel or substantially parallel to each other. Preferably, the inner tube of the condenser bifurcates into at least two pipes at a first bifurcation point (i.e., at the inner tube inlet) disposed within the outer tube and merges into a single tube at a second bifurcation point (i.e., at the inner tube outlet) disposed within the outer tube.

[0142] Preferably, the outer tube includes a plurality of spacer elements arranged along the inner surface of the outer tube for receiving the inner tube, wherein the spacer elements are adapted such that after the inner tube is installed within the spacer elements, the outer tube and the inner tube are separated or spaced apart from each other. The spacer elements are preferably made in one piece with the outer tube. In the case where the inner tube includes a plurality of tubes, separate spacer elements may be provided for each tube, or each spacer element is adapted to receive the plurality of tubes.

[0143] Except at the spacer elements, within the outer tube, the inner wall and the outer wall or the inner surface and the outer surface of the tube preferably do not contact each other. The spacer elements enable the distance between the inner tube and the outer tube to be constant.

[0144] Preferably, the dishwasher comprises one or more circulation pumps for circulating the washing liquid from the sump through a first passage of the condenser. Preferably, the condenser is designed such that if the control unit stops the circulation pump, the washing liquid flows out of the first passage due to gravity. Thus, when the circulation pump is not operating, the washing liquid in the condenser automatically flows out of the condenser. Accordingly, after the circulation pump is switched off, there is no or substantially no washing liquid remaining in the condenser. Soiling of the condenser and the formation of bad odors over time due to the washing liquid remaining in the condenser can be prevented. It is also prevented that the "old" washing liquid remaining in the condenser circulates back to the sump in the next washing cycle and is reused for the washing cycle.

[0145] Each individual feature of the dishwasher can be combined with the method, or any subset of features of the dishwasher (e.g., any dependent claim) can be combined with the method individually. Conversely, any individual (functional) feature or subset of (functional) features of the method can be combined with the dishwasher as a functional feature of the machine.

[0146] Any feature disclosed herein (for the above-described embodiments and / or configurations and for the detailed embodiments and modifications from the following description) can be combined with the claimed subject matter individually or in any sub-combination. If the conjunction "and / or" is used herein, all logical elements and combinations are disclosed separately. For example, a, b, and / or c discloses the elements / combinations a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, and abc.

[0147] Reference has been made in detail to a number of preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, which illustrate:

[0148] Figure 1 A perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0149] Figure 2 Without the door, the side walls and the top wall of the tub Figure 1 Another perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0150] Figure 3 Without the bottom of the tub Figure 2 A perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0151] Figure 4 Without the air circulation path Figure 3 A top view of the dishwasher,

[0152] Figure 5 Figure 4 A perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0153] Figure 6 Figure 5 Another perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0154] Figure 7 Figure 6 Stereogram of the refrigerant cycle circuit

[0155] Figure 8 Figure 3 Stereogram of the sump and filter assembly of the dishwasher

[0156] Figure 9 Stereogram of the sump and flow controller

[0157] Figure 10 Cross-sectional view of the flow channel formed between the lid element and the sump

[0158] Figure 11 Figure 10 Stereogram of the lid element as seen from below

[0159] Figure 12 Figure 9 Exploded view of the sump and flow controller

[0160] Figure 13 Enlarged view of the basin nozzle for spraying the washing liquid at different flow rates

[0161] Figure 14 Enlarged view of the lower spray arm for spraying the washing liquid at a reduced flow rate

[0162] Figure 15 Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement of the dishwasher

[0163] Figure 16 Another schematic diagram of the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0164] Figure 17 Another schematic diagram of the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0165] Figure 18 Another schematic diagram of the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0166] Figure 19 Another schematic diagram of the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0167] Figure 20 Another schematic diagram of the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0168] Figure 21 Another schematic diagram of the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0169] Figure 22 Schematic diagram of the washing cycle with different stages

[0170] Figure 23like Figure 22 A detailed view of the drying phase is shown, and

[0171] Figure 24 Detailed view of another drying stage.

[0172] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a dishwasher with a heat pump system. Figure 2 There is no door, side walls or top wall of the basin. Figure 1 Another perspective view of a dishwasher of the type shown in FIG. The dishwasher 2 includes a cabinet (not shown) that houses a basin 8 for washing items therein. The basin 8 includes side walls 10, a top wall 14, a rear wall (not shown), and a basin bottom 16 (see FIG. Figure 2 The cabinet may further include a base 6 arranged below the basin bottom 16 .

[0173] Dishes, cookware, and other tableware (also referred to herein as "items") may be placed in the basin 8 for washing. The dishwasher 2 may also include slidable lower and upper racks or baskets (not shown) for holding the items to be washed. The racks may be moved into or out of the basin 8. The dishwasher 2 may further include a door 18 that may be pivotally connected to the basin 8 to selectively allow access to the basin 8 for loading and unloading items, and that is closed when the dishwasher 2 is in operation (e.g., when the items in the dishwasher 2 are being washed and / or cleaned).

[0174] The dishwasher 2 may have a control panel 4, which is preferably arranged at the upper area of ​​the dishwasher front, for example in the middle and / or on the right side of the upper area of ​​the dishwasher front. Preferably, the control panel 4 is integrated in the door 18, more preferably arranged at the upper area of ​​the door 18. The control panel 4 preferably comprises a display for displaying information about the washing program (e.g. energy consumption, duration of the washing cycle, etc.) and an input device for selecting between different washing programs.

[0175] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the dishwasher 2 may include an internal air circulation path 20 for circulating air in the basin 8, preferably during the drying of the items contained in the basin 8. The air circulation path 20 may include an inlet 20a and an outlet 20b, each connected to the inside of the basin 8. Preferably, a blower 20c is provided at or near the inlet 20a. Preferably, the inlet 20a and the outlet 20b are arranged at opposite side walls of the basin 8. For the normal operating position of the dishwasher, the inlet 20a is preferably arranged on the right side wall of the basin 8, and the outlet 20b is arranged at the left side wall of the basin. The inlet 20a may be arranged at a vertical position higher than the vertical position of the outlet 20b. The air circulation path 20 preferably extends to the outside of the basin 8.

[0176] likeFigure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the dishwasher 2 may include a washing liquid circulation path for circulating the washing liquid during a washing cycle. In particular, the washing liquid collected in the sump 48 (see Figure 3 ) may be pumped through the washing liquid conduit system 22 to the interior of the tub 8 via the circulation pump 50. The washing liquid conduit system 22 includes a delivery conduit 24 that is fluidly connected to one or more spray devices (spray devices not shown). In an exemplary embodiment, the delivery conduit includes a connector 26 adapted to connect to a first spray device (e.g., the top spray device 26a), a connector 28 adapted to connect to a second spray device (e.g., the middle spray device 28a), and a connector 30 adapted to connect to a third spray device (e.g., the lower spray device 30a). The top spray device is preferably near the top portion of the dishwasher, the lower spray device is preferably near the bottom 16 of the tub, and the middle spray device is preferably located between the top spray device and the lower spray device. The delivery conduit 24 of the washing liquid conduit system and the spray devices are configured to spray the washing liquid onto the articles received in the tub 8 under pressure during use of the dishwasher.

[0177] As Figure 2 shown, the dishwasher 2 may include a filtration assembly 40 connected to the sump 48 (see Figure 3 ). The filtration assembly 40 is configured to filter the washing liquid that returns to the sump 48 after the washing liquid has been deployed in the tub 8.

[0178] The dishwasher 2 may include a control unit (not shown) that communicates with one or more of the functional components of the dishwasher. For example, the control unit may be in communication with the circulation pump 50 and may be configured to selectively operate the circulation pump 50 to pump the washing fluid to at least one of the spray devices of the washing liquid conduit system 22. According to some embodiments, the dishwasher may include a flow manifold or flow controller 64 (the flow manifold may be any device having valves for directing the washing liquid along different flow paths, and the flow controller is preferably a device such as, for example, Figure 13 shown). The control unit may be adapted to control the flow controller 64, as will be described in more detail below. The control unit may include a memory for storing data such as the operating routines of the dishwasher 2.

[0179] As Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the dishwasher 2 includes a sump 48 for typically collecting the wash liquid under the influence of gravity. The dishwasher 2 uses the wash liquid to clean, wash, and rinse articles. The sump 20 is arranged below the basin bottom 18. In particular, the sump 48 is fluidly connected to the basin bottom 18 from below, such that the wash liquid within the basin 8 can flow into the sump 48.

[0180] The dishwasher 2 may include a fresh water tank assembly 46 having a fluid connection to a main water supply line. A fresh water inlet valve (not shown) may be provided upstream of the fresh water tank assembly 46 to enable or prevent fresh water from flowing into the dishwasher 2. As Figure 3 shown, a flow meter 58 may be provided upstream of the fresh water tank assembly 46 for providing a feedback signal to the control unit indicative of the amount of fresh water supplied. The fresh water tank assembly 46 may include a tank for storing fresh water. The fresh water tank assembly 46 may further include a vent connection 46a leading to the basin 8 for balancing the pressure between the fresh water tank assembly 46 and the basin 8, and / or if the water tank overflows, the overflowing wash liquid is directed into the basin interior through the connection 46a.

[0181] In the case where the dishwasher includes a softening component 52 (as shown in the figures herein), the outlet 54a of the tank assembly 46 is connected to the salt container of the softening component 46, and another outlet 54b of the tank assembly 46 is connected to the resin container 54b of the softening component 46. The fresh water flowing out of the tank assembly 52 may be directed through the outlet 54b connected to the resin container (for softening fresh water) or, if the resin in the resin container must be regenerated, through the outlet 54a connected to the salt container and then through the resin container. A valve element (not shown) (such as a two-way valve) may be provided upstream of the salt container and preferably downstream of the outlet 54a to enable or prevent water from flowing into the salt container. The softening component 52 is preferably at least partially arranged below the tank assembly 46. A tank valve (not shown) may be provided downstream of the water tank assembly 46 and upstream of the softening component 52 to enable or prevent water from flowing out of the water tank assembly 46.

[0182] The softening component 52 may include an outlet that is connected to the sump 48 via a flow connection 56 (see Figure 4 ). For example, fresh water may be directly supplied to the sump 48 via the tank assembly 46. Alternatively, the tank assembly 46 may be filled with fresh water, which may be supplied to the sump 48 at a subsequent stage of the wash cycle or during a subsequent wash cycle.

[0183] The dishwasher 2 may include a drainage circuit 59 for draining the washing liquid in the sump 48 via a drainage pump 60 out of the dishwasher 2. The drainage circuit 59 may include first, second, and third drainage path segments 62a-c. The first drainage path segment 62a includes an inlet at the sump 48, and the outlet of the first drainage path segment 62a is connected to the inlet of the second drainage path segment 62b preferably arranged at the sidewall of the tub 8. The outlet of the second drainage path segment 62b is connected to the inlet of the third drainage path segment 62c, which guides the washing liquid out of the dishwasher 2.

[0184] The second drainage path segment 62b may include a siphon or an air gap to prevent dirty water from flowing back into the dishwasher 2. In particular, the second drainage path segment 62b may extend from the bottom to the top and from the top to the bottom, thus forming a siphon. Therefore, when the drainage pump 60 for draining the washing liquid stops, the residual dirty washing liquid in the second drainage path segment 62b flows out of the drainage path 62b due to gravity. When there is a blockage or obstruction downstream of the air gap / siphon in the drainage circuit 59, no dirty water can flow back into the dishwasher 2 from the outside of the dishwasher 2 via the second drainage path segment 62b due to the siphon / air gap.

[0185] The refrigerant flow direction 31 of the refrigerant in the heat pump system of the dishwasher 2, and the washing liquid flow direction 32 are indicated by arrows in some of the following figures (see: Figure 6 and Figure 7 ). Therefore, the dashed arrows define the washing liquid flow direction 32, and the solid arrows indicate the refrigerant flow direction 31. These definitions of the flow directions are valid for the figures in this document. Figure 7 The shown refrigerant flow direction 31 corresponds to the "normal" refrigerant flow direction (i.e., when the heat pump is operated in the normal operating mode). When the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode, the refrigerant flow direction 31 is reversed. Different operating modes of the heat pump are further described below.

[0186] Washing liquid cooling path

[0187] As Figure 5 and Figure 6 shown, the dishwasher may include a washing liquid cooling path 43 having an inlet provided at the sump 48 connected to the circulation pump 50, a condenser 44, and a flow manifold or preferably (and as Figures 1 to 14 shown) a flow controller 64 (regarding Figures 8 to 12(Detailed description). The outlet of the circulation pump 50 is connected to the inlet of the condenser 44, and the outlet of the condenser 44 is connected to the inlet 66 of the flow controller 64. As further described below, the flow manifold or flow controller 64 may include an outlet for each spray device (a first outlet 70, a second outlet 72, and / or a third outlet 74, see below), where preferably, in the normal operating mode of the heat pump, the washing liquid is heated and circulated through one or more of the spray devices to the basin 8. The flow manifold or flow controller 64 may have additional outlets (see further below: a fourth outlet 76 and a fifth outlet 78), where when the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode, the washing liquid is preferably circulated through the fourth outlet 76 and / or the fifth outlet 78 along the washing liquid cooling path to cool the washing liquid and / or the basin 8 (preferably bypassing any spray devices simultaneously).

[0188] Further, in addition to or instead of heating the washing liquid through the condenser, a heater (not shown) for heating the washing liquid may also be provided. The heater is preferably arranged inside or integrated into the housing of the circulation pump 50.

[0189] Heat pump system

[0190] As Figures 5 to 7 shown, the dishwasher 2 includes a heat pump (i.e., a heat pump system). The heat pump includes a compressor 92, a condenser 44, and an evaporator 90. The condenser 44 has an external passage or a first passage 82 for guiding the washing liquid and an internal passage or a second passage 84 for guiding the refrigerant, where the first passage 82 and the second passage 84 are in heat exchange contact with each other. As Figure 7 shown, the condenser 44 is preferably a tube-in-tube condenser, where the outer tube forms the first passage 82 and the inner tube forms the second passage 84.

[0191] The compressor 92 is used to increase the pressure of the refrigerant and to circulate the refrigerant within the refrigerant circulation loop 83. The refrigerant circulates through the second passage 84 of the condenser 44, the compressor 92, and the evaporator 90 (not necessarily in this order) in the refrigerant circulation loop 83.

[0192] Condenser

[0193] The condenser 44 is preferably arranged at the side wall 10 of the basin 8. Preferably, the condenser 44 is arranged between the side wall 10 of the basin 8 and the cabinet of the dishwasher 2. When considering the normal operating position of the dishwasher 2, the condenser 44 may be arranged at the right side wall of the dishwasher 2, as Figure 2 shown.

[0194] The condenser 44 may extend in a vertical or substantially vertical plane. The inlet 82a and the outlet 82b of the first passage 82 and the inlet 84a and the outlet 84b of the second passage 84 may be arranged at the bottom of the condenser 44, respectively.

[0195] As Figure 5 and Figure 7 shown, the condenser 44 may include a first section 80a, a second section 80b disposed opposite to the first section 80a, and a third section 80c connecting the first section 80a and the second section 80b. The first section 80a and the second section 80b preferably each extend vertically or substantially vertically. The third section 80c preferably connects the first section 80a and the second section 80b in the shape of an arc, where the apex of the arc is the highest vertical point of the condenser 44. The arc may have an angle of 180° or substantially 180°.

[0196] As Figure 7 shown, the second passage 84 may include at least two pipes arranged parallel to each other. For this purpose, the internal second passage 84 is divided into two parallel passage lines by a bifurcator, and bifurcators are provided at the inlet region and the end region in the first passage 82, respectively. Thereby, the heat exchange capacity is doubled.

[0197] A plurality of spacer elements 81 may be arranged along the inner surface of the first passage 82 for receiving the second passage 84. The spacer elements 81 are adapted such that after the second passage 84 is installed within the spacer elements 81, the inner wall of the second passage 84 and the outer wall of the first passage 82 are separated or spaced apart from each other. Thus, the spacing between the first passage 82 and the second passage 84 is ensured, such that a liquid can pass between the inner surface of the first passage and the outer surface of the received second passage.

[0198] The wall forming the first passage 82 may be divided into a first half and a second half (a first shell and a second shell). As Figure 5 shown, the first passage 82 is vertically or substantially vertically divided into a first half and a second half. When the two halves are installed with the second passage 84 already disposed in one of the two halves, the first half and the second half form an outer tube 82 for guiding a washing liquid around an inner tube 84, while the inner tube is provided for guiding a refrigerant.

[0199] For heat exchange, the washing liquid is circulated through the first passage 82 of the condenser 44 and the refrigerant is circulated through the second passage 84. After the heat exchange, the control unit is adapted to stop the circulation pump 50 such that the washing liquid flows out of the condenser due to gravity, i.e., out of the first passage 82. Thus, fouling accumulation in the first passage 82 can be avoided.

[0200] The inlet 82a of the first passage 82 of the condenser 44 (seeFigure 7 ) is connected to the outlet of the circulation pump 50 via the first fluid flow path 68a. The second fluid flow path 68b connects the outlet 82b of the first passage 82 to the inlet 66 of the flow controller 64.

[0201] Refrigerant circulation circuit

[0202] As Figure 7 shown, the refrigerant circulation circuit 83 includes first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth refrigerant circuit sections 83a-f. The first refrigerant circuit section 83a connects the outlet 84b of the second passage 84 to the evaporator inlet 90a, the second refrigerant circuit section 83b connects the evaporator outlet 90b to the first inlet 86a of the switching element (switching valve) 86 (refrigerant flow changing device), the third refrigerant circuit section 83c connects the first outlet 87a of the switching valve 86 to the compressor inlet 92a, the fourth refrigerant circuit section 83d connects the compressor outlet 92b to the second inlet 86b of the switching valve 86, the fifth refrigerant circuit section 83e connects the second outlet 87b of the switching valve 86 to the inlet 84a of the second passage 84 of the condenser 44, and the sixth refrigerant circuit section 83f (for the second passage 84) connects the inlet 84a to the outlet 84b. The piping system of the refrigerant circuit sections (except for the piping system of the condenser itself) can be provided as flexible piping. The flexible piping can easily adapt to non-straight paths without the need for mechanical bending as is the case when using, for example, copper piping.

[0203] An expansion device 88 (such as a capillary valve or an expansion valve) can be provided in the first refrigerant section 83a that connects the outlet 84b of the second passage 84 to the evaporator inlet 90a. The expansion device 88 can be adapted to control the amount of refrigerant released into the evaporator 90.

[0204] As Figure 5 indicated, at least one of the following components of the refrigerant circulation circuit 83 can be arranged at the base 6 of the dishwasher 2: the compressor 92, the evaporator 90, the expansion device 88, and / or the switching valve 86. Preferably, the switching valve 86 is vertically positioned, particularly perpendicular to the rotation axis of the compressor 92.

[0205] The switching valve 86 can be a valve that only guides the refrigerant from the first inlet 86a to the first outlet 87a and from the second inlet 86b to the second outlet 87b. Preferably, the switching valve 86 is configured to change the refrigerant flow direction within the refrigerant circulation circuit 83. The flow direction of the refrigerant in the condenser 44 and the flow direction of the washing liquid can be opposite to each other to improve heat exchange.

[0206] Evaporator

[0207] As Figure 7 schematically shown, the evaporator 90 is preferably arranged in the evaporator tank 94. The evaporator tank 94 is preferably arranged in the base 6 of the dishwasher, i.e., below the tub 8 (see Figure 5 ). The evaporator tank 94 can be sealed by a seal or any other sealing mechanism extending along the edge of the opening of the evaporator tank 94, and is preferably closed by an evaporator tank cover. The evaporator tank cover can have a convenient form for sealing the evaporator tank 94.

[0208] The evaporator tank 94 is preferably a closed tank for permanently storing the heat exchange medium. Preferably, the evaporator 90 is arranged or received inside the evaporator tank 94. The evaporator 90 is in thermal exchange contact with the heat exchange medium to effect heat exchange between the medium and the refrigerant flowing inside the conduit of the evaporator 90. The evaporator 90 can have, for example, a zigzag structure or any other structure, and can be used to heat the refrigerant in the cycle (and cool the heat exchange medium) (this is the "normal" operating mode of the heat pump) or to cool the refrigerant in the cycle (and heat the heat exchange medium) (this is the "reverse" operating mode of the heat pump). The heated refrigerant can be used to heat the circulating wash liquid by heat exchange in the condenser.

[0209] Different operating modes

[0210] In the heating mode (the "normal" operating mode of the heat pump system), within the refrigerant circuit 83, starting from the refrigerant outlet 84b, the refrigerant is guided by the first refrigerant circuit section 83a through the expansion device 88 to the evaporator 90. The compressor 92 arranged within the refrigerant circuit 83 generates a vacuum applied to the evaporator 90. The heat exchange medium in the evaporator tank 94 is in thermal exchange contact with the evaporator 90. The medium is cooled and finally changes from the liquid phase to the solid phase, thereby releasing heat. The released heat heats the refrigerant in the evaporator 90, which then evaporates. The heated refrigerant as a gas phase is sucked by the compressor 92 through the second refrigerant circuit section 83b, the switching valve 86, and the third refrigerant circuit section 83c. The compressed refrigerant passes through the fourth refrigerant circuit section 84d, the switching valve 86, and the fifth refrigerant circuit section 84e, and reaches the condenser 44 through the refrigerant condenser inlet 84a. Within the condenser 44, the refrigerant and the wash liquid preferably flow in opposite directions to improve heat exchange. In the condenser, the wash liquid is heated by transferring heat from the refrigerant to the wash liquid. From the refrigerant inlet 84a to the refrigerant condenser outlet 84, i.e., within the second passage 84, the refrigerant is cooled. The wash liquid is heated in the first passage 82 from the condenser inlet 82a to the wash liquid condenser outlet 82b.

[0211] The heated washing liquid leaves the condenser 44 through the washing liquid condenser outlet 82b, and the washing liquid can be directed through any of the outlets in the outlet of the flow controller as described above.

[0212] In the cooling mode for defrosting the evaporator 90 during the washing cycle and / or if the tub is to be cooled during the drying phase of the washing cycle to improve drying, the refrigerant flow direction is reversed as indicated by the thick white arrow in Figures 15 to 21 (the thick black arrow indicates the normal flow direction of the heating process of the washing liquid). This is the "reverse mode" of the heat pump system. The reversal of the refrigerant flow through the condenser 44, the expansion device 88, and the evaporator 90 is provided by the refrigerant flow change device 86. In the refrigerant flow reverse mode, the evaporator 90 operates as a condenser and heats the heat exchange medium in the evaporator tank 94. The condenser 44 operates as an evaporator and cools the liquid of the cycle (which is freshly supplied tap water and / or water from a previous rinse). The expansion device 88 is preferably a two-way expansion device, such as a capillary tube that operates independently of the flow direction.

[0213] The cooled washing liquid leaving the condenser 44 (i.e., the first passage 82) can be directed through additional outlets A and / or B of the flow controller 64 (see below). The supplied water can flow directly into the sump 48 via outlet A or into the sump via the tub. The washing liquid collected in the sump 48 can then be discharged along the discharge circuit 59 by the discharge pump 60, for example, after defrosting the evaporator 90 and / or cooling the tub 8.

[0214] The flow change device 86 has two switching states, in which the refrigerant delivery direction of the compressor 92 does not change in both switching states.

[0215] a) In the first state (the normal operating state of the heat pump, the heating mode as described above), the evaporator 90 operates as an evaporator and the condenser 44 operates as a condenser. The refrigerant compressed by the compressor and coming from the compressor outlet is directed by the switching valve 86 to the condenser 44. The refrigerant from the evaporator 90 is sucked into the compressor inlet through the switching valve 86.

[0216] b) In the second state (refrigerant flow reverse, the cooling mode as described above), the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 92 is directed by the switching valve 86 to the evaporator 90. The refrigerant leaving the condenser 44 is sucked into the compressor 92 through the switching valve 86 in its second switching state.

[0217] Figure 8 is Figure 3 a perspective view of the sump 48 and the filter assembly 40 of the dishwasher 2 Figure 9Is a perspective view of the sump 48 and the flow controller 64. The sump 48 may include one or more wash fluid outlets 70, 72, 74 connected to the wash liquid conduit system 22. The outlets 70, 72, 74 are preferably disposed along the inner side of the sump 48, which is positioned near the bottom 16 of the tub in use. These outlets are typically used to enable the wash fluid to flow from the sump 48 to different components of the dishwasher 2. For example, the sump 48 includes a first outlet 70 fluidly connected to the lower spray device of the wash fluid conduit system 22, a second outlet 72 fluidly connected to the top spray device of the wash fluid conduit system 22, and a third outlet 74 fluidly connected to the intermediate spray device of the wash fluid conduit system 22.

[0218] A fourth wash fluid outlet (referred to herein as "extra outlet A") 76 and / or a fifth wash fluid outlet (referred to herein as "extra outlet B") 78 may be provided at the sump 48, preferably near the first outlet 70, the second outlet 72, and / or the third outlet 74. Further, a drain outlet 79 may be provided in the sump 48 to facilitate the circulation of the wash fluid in the sump 48 by the operation of the circulation pump 50.

[0219] The plurality of outlets 70 - 78 may be arranged at the sump 48. Preferably, the flow controller 64 is integrated in the sump 48 and includes the outlets 70 - 78. The wash liquid directed from the condenser 44 to the inlet 66 of the flow controller 64 and flowing through the first outlet 70 supplies the wash liquid to the lower spray device. The wash liquid directed from the condenser 44 to the inlet 66 of the flow controller 64 and flowing through the second outlet 72 supplies the wash liquid to the top spray device. The wash liquid directed from the condenser 44 to the inlet 66 of the flow controller 64 and flowing through the third outlet 74 supplies the wash liquid to the intermediate spray device. In other embodiments, the outlets 70, 72, 74 may enable the wash fluid to be supplied from the sump 48 to any spray device and / or any other component of the wash fluid conduit system 22 of the dishwasher 2. Preferably, when operating the heat pump in the normal operating mode where the wash liquid is heated, the wash liquid is supplied to the tub 8 via the first outlet 70, the second outlet 72, and / or the third outlet 74.

[0220] As Figure 9 shown, the sump 48 is integral and formed of a one-piece construction. The function of the flow controller 64 is described in detail with respect to Figure 12 this.

[0221] Sump nozzle / tub nozzle

[0222] As Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the additional outlet A 76 is fluidly connected to the basin outlet, preferably the basin nozzle 100, which is adapted to supply washing liquid into the interior of the basin 8 in the bottom region of the basin. The additional outlet B 78 is preferably fluidly connected to the sump outlet, preferably the sump nozzle 98, which is adapted to supply the washing liquid directly back into the sump 48, preferably so as to avoid the circulated liquid being guided through the basin.

[0223] The washing liquid cooling path 43 may include: a first cooling branch 43a, in which the washing liquid leaving the condenser 44 (i.e., the first passage 82) is guided through the additional outlet A 76 and back into the sump 48 via the sump nozzle 98; and / or a second cooling branch 43b, in which the washing liquid leaving the condenser 44 (i.e., the first passage 82) is guided through the additional outlet B 78 and into the basin 8 via the basin nozzle 100, where the washing liquid flows back into the sump 48 via the basin 8.

[0224] When the heat pump is operating in the reverse mode, the washing liquid is preferably guided through the additional outlet A 76 and / or the additional outlet B 78. During the reverse mode, the washing liquid is cooled in the condenser 44, particularly in the first passage 82, and the cooled washing liquid is directly guided to the sump 48 via the outlet A 76 and / or to the interior of the basin 8 via the outlet B 78. The reverse mode of the heat pump enables the regeneration of the heat exchange medium in the evaporator tank 94 (i.e., de-icing of the heat exchange medium), and / or enables the cooling of the basin 8 and / or the air inside the basin during the drying phase, thereby improving the drying efficiency.

[0225] When, for example, the washing liquid is guided along the first cooling branch 43a, the washing liquid does not enter the interior of the basin 8 and thus does not substantially affect the air temperature inside the basin 8. That is, when the heat pump is operating in the reverse mode and the washing liquid is guided along the first cooling branch 43a, the cooled washing liquid does not cool the basin 8 and / or the air inside the basin 8.

[0226] Preferably, during the drying phase of the washing cycle, the washing liquid is guided along the second cooling branch 43b, in which the cooled washing liquid cools the basin 8 and / or the air inside the basin, such that the moisture in the air condenses, thereby improving the drying process. In this case, in addition to regenerating the heat exchange medium in the evaporator tank 94, the drying process is also improved. When circulating the washing liquid along the second cooling branch 43b, the basin nozzle 100 is preferably adapted such that the washing liquid supplied into the interior of the basin does not contact the articles therein (and thus the articles are not cooled by the washing liquid).

[0227] The filtration assembly 40 may include a cover element 42. The cover element 42 is preferably adapted to cover at least a portion of the sump. At least a portion of the cover element 42 is disposed above the flow controller 64 so as to cover the respective outlets 70-78 of the flow controller 64 and redirect them. As Figure 11 shown in the bottom view of, the cover element 42 includes an inlet aligned with the outlets of the flow controller 64. One inlet connects the additional outlet A 78 to the sump nozzle 98, and one inlet connects the additional outlet B 76 to the basin nozzle 100. Further, the cover element 42 includes an outlet for each of the outlets 70, 72, 74 for fluid connection to the spraying device such that the washing liquid can pass from the outlets 70, 72, 74 through the cover element 42 to the washing liquid conduit system and the respective spraying devices.

[0228] The cover element 42 has a portion formed as a filter which is adapted to filter the washing liquid as it flows from the interior of the basin 8 through the filter to the sump 48.

[0229] As Figure 8 shown, the cover element 42 may include a hub 96 which is disposed at the upper side of the cover element 42 and extends vertically or substantially vertically from the cover element 42. The hub 96 is adapted to connect the first outlet 70 to a lower spraying device (not shown).

[0230] The basin nozzle 100 and / or the sump nozzle 98 are at least partially integrated in the cover element 42. Preferably, the cover element 42 and the sump nozzle 98 and / or the basin nozzle 100 are formed as a single piece, preferably made of a plastic material. The sump nozzle 98 is preferably disposed at the lower surface of the cover element 42, and / or the basin nozzle 100 is preferably disposed at the top surface of the cover element 42.

[0231] As Figure 11 shown, when considering the normal installation position, the cover element 42 may include a fixing element orifice 106 and a sump attachment 104 disposed at the lower surface of the cover element 42. The size and shape of the fixing element orifice 106 are preferably determined to receive a fixing element (not shown) to connect the cover element 42 to the sump 48. The size and shape of the sump attachment 104 are preferably determined to fit over the respective outlets 70, 72, 74, 76, 78 of the sump 48 to connect the outlets 70, 72, 74, 76, 78 to the respective spray arms of the water conduit system and / or the sump nozzle 98 and / or the basin nozzle 100 of the dishwasher, as described herein. The connection between the sump attachment 104 and the outlets 70, 72, 74, 76, 78 is preferably formed as a sealed connection.

[0232] The sump nozzle 98 can be attached to the additional outlet A 76 via a connecting element (not shown in detail). Preferably, the sump nozzle 98 simply mates with the contour of the additional outlet A 76 by interlocking. The sump nozzle 98 can be attached to the additional outlet A 76 such that the washing fluid supplied from the dishwasher tub 8 and the sump 48 to the additional outlet A 76 follows the path of arrow C( Figure 10 as shown) back into the sump 48.

[0233] When the cover element 42 is attached to the outlet, a flow channel 102 is preferably formed between the outlet A 76 and the sump nozzle 98. In particular, the bottom of the cover element 42 includes a first part 102a of the flow channel 102 preferably integrated in the cover element 42, and a second part 102b of the flow channel 102 preferably integrated in the sump 48 at the additional outlet A 76. The first part 102a and the second part 102b are preferably configured such that when the cover element 42 is mounted at the sump 48, the first part 102a and the second part 102b form the flow channel 102 for guiding the washing liquid from the additional outlet A to the sump 48 via the sump nozzle 98. Preferably, the first part 102a is formed as a single piece with the cover element 42, and / or the second part 102b is formed as a single piece with the sump 48.

[0234] The additional outlet A 76 can extend vertically or substantially vertically from the sump 48, and the side wall of the outlet A 76 can include an orifice fluidly connecting the outlet A 76 to the flow channel 102.

[0235] Instead of the flow channel 102 including the first part 102a and the second part 102b, the flow channel 102 can be formed as a closed channel integrated in the cover element 42, where the inlet is adapted to connect to the additional outlet A 76 and the outlet forms the sump nozzle 98.

[0236] The tub nozzle 100 can be attached to the additional outlet B 78 via a connecting element (not shown in detail). Preferably, the tub nozzle 100 simply mates with the contour of the additional outlet B 78 by interlocking. The tub nozzle 100 can be attached to the additional outlet B 78 such that the washing fluid supplied to the outlet B 78 is guided into the interior of the tub 8 via the tub nozzle 100. The outlet of the tub nozzle 100 is preferably arranged such that the washing fluid leaving the tub nozzle 100 does not contact the articles in the dishwasher 2.

[0237] Flow controller

[0238] Figure 12 Yes Figure 9Exploded view of the sump 48 and the flow controller 64. The sump 48 includes a disk portion 110 formed inside the outer side of the sump 48. The flow controller 64 includes a disk 112, a cam disk 114, a switch (not specifically shown), and a motor 116. The size and shape of the disk portion 110 of the sump 48 are determined to receive the disk 112, the cam disk 114, the switch, and the motor 116. The motor 116 is configured to rotate the disk 112 relative to the wash fluid outlets 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78. The relative movement between the disk 112 and the sump outlets 70 - 78 will be described in further detail herein. However, generally, in an exemplary embodiment, the control unit can send signals to the switch and the motor 116 to rotate the cam disk 114 at intervals and times consistent with the dishwasher cycle, and as a result, the disk 112 can be selectively moved relative to the sump 48 and the outlets 70 - 78.

[0239] The disk 112 may include a plurality of orifices 113 that are arranged to selectively close and open the plurality of wash fluid outlets 70, 72, 74, and additional outlet A 76 and / or additional outlet B 78 during rotation of the disk 112. Preferably, the motor 116 is adapted to align at least one of the plurality of orifices 113 of the disk 112 with at least one of the wash fluid outlets 70, 72, 74, and additional outlet A 76 and / or additional outlet B 78 such that wash liquid is allowed to pass through the aligned outlets.

[0240] When the disk 112 is positioned within the disk portion 110 of the sump 48, the housing 118 of the flow controller 64 preferably fits around or wraps the disk 112. In use, the disk 112 is located between the housing 118 and the sump 48. The cam disk 114, the switch, and the motor 116 are located within an internal compartment (not specifically shown) of the housing 118 such that at least the cam disk 114 contacts the disk 112 through the housing 118. In other embodiments, the housing, the cam disk, the switch, and the motor may have different configurations. For example, the cam disk, the switch, and the motor can be adjacent to the disk 112 instead of being separated by a part of the housing body as currently disclosed. For example, the housing 118 is located below the cam disk 114, the switch, and the motor 116.

[0241] Different flow rates

[0242] As Figure 13 and Figure 14 shown, in addition to the above-described circulation through the sump nozzles 98 and / or the basin nozzles 100, or as an alternative, if for example no sump nozzles 98 are provided, the wash liquid can be supplied into the interior of the basin 8 at a reduced flow rate 120 or a higher flow rate 122 through the above-described basin nozzles 100 in the reverse mode of the heat pump (see Figure 13)。Alternatively or additionally, for example when the sump nozzle 98 is not provided and / or the basin nozzle 100 is not provided, the washing liquid can be supplied into the interior of the basin 8 at a reduced flow rate through the lower spraying device 30a (see: Figure 14 , where the arrows indicate the flow of the washing liquid).

[0243] In the case of the lower spraying device 30a, the normal flow rate through the lower spraying device 30a is preferably the flow rate at which the articles above the lower spraying arm 30a are contacted by the washing liquid. This reduced flow rate is a flow rate reduced compared to the normal flow rate and is adapted such that the washing liquid does not contact the articles when the reduced flow rate is applied through the lower spraying device.

[0244] In the case of the basin nozzle 100, the higher flow rate (and thus also the reduced flow rate below the higher flow rate) for circulating the washing liquid through the basin nozzle 100 is adapted such that water cannot contact the articles.

[0245] Preferably, the bottom of the basin 8 includes a first region 124 surrounding / covering the sump 48 and a second region 126 surrounding the first region 24. When the reduced flow rate is applied through the basin nozzle 100, the washing liquid is conveyed through the basin nozzle to the first region 124, and when the higher flow rate is applied through the basin nozzle 100, the washing liquid is conveyed through the basin nozzle 100 and the washing liquid is also conveyed to the second region 126. On the other hand, when the reduced flow rate is applied through the lower spraying device 30a, the washing liquid is conveyed to the first region 124 and the second region 126.

[0246] The second region 126 is further away from the sump 48 than the first region 124. When the higher flow rate is applied, preferably during the drying phase, the washing liquid can exchange heat with the interior of the basin 8 and / or with the hot air in the basin. Most of the washing liquid preferably enters the first region 124 at a reduced flow rate and enters the second region 126 at a higher flow rate. When the higher flow rate is applied, the supplied washing liquid preferably flows from the second region 126 of the basin bottom 16 through the first region 124 and back into the sump 48. Since the second region 126 is further away from the basin nozzle 100 than the first region 124, when the higher flow rate is applied, the washing liquid has more time and a longer path to exchange heat with the air in the basin 8 and / or the basin 8 until the washing liquid flows back into the sump 48. For example, when the higher flow rate is applied, the washing liquid sprays out from the basin nozzle at a length of at least 1.5 times, 1.7 times, 1.9 times, 2.0 times, 2.2 times or 2.5 times the spraying length when the reduced flow rate is applied.

[0247] When a reduced or higher flow rate is applied through the tub nozzle 100 or a reduced flow rate is applied through the lower spray device 30a and the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode, the heat exchange medium in the evaporator tank 94 can be regenerated. Additionally, when applied during the drying phase, the drying efficiency can be increased when the cooled wash liquid is supplied to the interior of the tub 8 at a higher flow rate through the tub nozzle 100 (compared to the reduced flow rate through the tub nozzle 100) and / or at a reduced flow rate through the lower spray device 30a to cool the interior of the tub 8.

[0248] The reduced flow rate through the tub nozzle 100 is preferably applied during the washing phase and / or during the cold rinse and / or the hot rinse and / or at the start of the drying phase of the wash cycle, and / or the higher flow rate is preferably applied during the drying phase of the wash cycle, particularly after a reduced flow rate has been applied during the drying phase.

[0249] The reduced flow rate through the lower spray device 30a is preferably applied during the washing phase and / or during the cold rinse and / or the hot rinse and / or during the drying phase of the wash cycle.

[0250] Different heat pump and washing liquid flow path arrangements

[0251] In the following Figures 15 to 21 the reverse refrigerant flow direction for cooling the wash liquid is indicated by the white thick arrow, while the normal refrigerant flow direction for heating the wash liquid is indicated by the black thick arrow.

[0252] Figure 15 which schematically shows Figures 1 to 14 the heat pump and the wash liquid flow path arrangement of the dishwasher 2 shown, namely the refrigerant circuit 83 and the wash liquid cooling path 43.

[0253] The flow controller 64 includes an outlet A 76 connected to the sump 48 via a first cooling branch 43a, particularly the sump nozzle 98, and includes an outlet B 78 connected to the tub 8 via a second cooling branch 43b, particularly the tub nozzle 100, for supplying the cooled wash liquid in the reverse mode of the heat pump. Further, the flow controller 64 includes a first outlet 70, a second outlet 72, and a third outlet 74, where the first outlet 70 is connected to the lower spray device 30a, the second outlet 72 is connected to the top spray device 26a, and the third outlet 74 is connected to the middle spray device 28a.

[0254] Although the flow controller 64 is shown as having three outlets 70, 72, 74 for the spray devices, it should be understood that only one or two of these outlets may be present in any of the embodiments disclosed herein. Similarly, only one of the outlets A and B may be present in any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0255] In the following Figures 16 to 21 is shown a heat pump and a washing liquid flow path arrangement different from the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement shown and illustrated by the schematic diagram in Figures 1 to 14 and shown by the schematic diagram in Figure 15 Only the differences between the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement in Figures 16 to 21 and the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement in Figure 15 are described. All other features described for the dishwasher 2 in Figures 1 to 15 also apply to the arrangement shown in Figures 16 to 21

[0256] As Figure 16 shown, the washing liquid cooling path 43 includes an inlet at the sump 48, the condenser 44 (i.e., the first passage 82), and an outlet at the sump 48. Compared with the heat pump arrangement in Figure 15 , the washing liquid cooling path 43 is not guided through the flow controller 64. Instead, a separate circulation flow path 128 is provided that connects the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path 43 at the sump 48 to the flow controller 64. The flow controller 64 has the same outlets 70 - 78 as the flow controller 64 in Figure 15 and has the same connections.

[0257] In this case, the washing liquid is only guided through the condenser 44 when heat exchange is required. Thus, the pump energy consumption and the soiling of the condenser can be reduced because the washing liquid is not always guided through the condenser 44.

[0258] Preferably, the washing liquid cooling path 43 and the circulation flow path 128 can have at least a partially common flow path downstream of the circulation pump 50. Thus, the same circulation pump 50 can be used to supply the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path 43 and / or the circulation flow path 128. The flow path branches into the washing liquid cooling path 43 and the circulation flow path 128 downstream of the pump 50. A control element 130 can be arranged at or downstream of the branching point in at least one of the washing liquid cooling path 43 and / or the circulation flow path 128. The control element 130 is preferably configured such that when the control unit controls the control element 130, the washing liquid can circulate along the washing liquid cooling path 43 and / or the circulation flow path 128. Alternatively, the washing liquid cooling path 43 and the circulation flow path 128 can be completely separate and each individually connected to a circulation pump that is in turn connected to the sump.

[0259] Figure 17 is shown another washing liquid flow path arrangement, which is different from Figure 15 ​The difference in the arrangement shown is that outlets A 76 and B 78 are not provided at the flow controller 64. The flow controller connected to the condenser 44 (only) includes outlets connected to the spray devices 26a, 28a, 30a. The flow path downstream of the condenser 44 and upstream of the flow controller 64 can bifurcate into a first cooling branch 43a connected to the outlet 76 and a second cooling branch 43b connected to the outlet 78. Preferably, in each of the first cooling branch 43a and the second cooling branch 43b, a control element 130 can be arranged, which is adapted to enable or prevent the washing fluid from flowing along the respective cooling branches 43a, 43b. Preferably, if the control unit controls these elements 130 to circulate the washing liquid through the outlet 76 and / or 78, the control unit simultaneously controls the flow controller 64 such that no washing fluid can pass through any of the outlets 70, 72, 74, for example because the disk 112 is rotated to a position blocking the outlets 70, 72, 74.

[0260] In Figure 18 the washing liquid flow path arrangement shown, the washing liquid cooling path 43 includes an inlet at the sump 48, a second circulation pump 50b, the condenser 44 (i.e., the first passage 82), and the outlets 76 and / or 78. Compared with Figure 15 the flow path arrangement, the washing liquid cooling path 43 is not guided through the flow controller 64, and the outlets 76 and / or 78 are provided separately from the flow controller 64. A separate circulation flow path 128 is provided, which has an inlet at the sump 48 or that inlet, a first circulation pump 50a, and the flow controller 64. In this case, the flow controller 64 only includes outlets 70, 72, 74 connected to the spray devices 26a, 28a, 30a for supplying the washing liquid to the basin 8.

[0261] By separating the washing liquid cooling path 43 having the first cooling branch 43a and the second cooling branch 43b and the circulation flow path 128, and each of these two paths having its own circulation pump, the size and / or power of the second circulation pump 50b can be smaller than that of the first pump 50a, because the second circulation pump 50b does not have to be able to supply the washing liquid to any spray device. Therefore, compared with the first pump 50a, the second pump 50b has less flow resistance and less energy consumption.

[0262] In Figure 19 the washing liquid flow path arrangement shown, the flow controller 64 is arranged upstream of the condenser 44 (while in Figure 15In [the situation where], the flow controller is downstream of the condenser 44), where the outlet at the sump 48 is connected to the inlet of the flow controller 64 via a circulation pump 50. The flow controller 64 may include the one or more outlets 70, 72, 74 connected to the respective spraying devices. The flow controller 64 may include the additional outlet 76 connected to the inlet of the condenser 44 (at the first passage 82), where the flow path downstream of the condenser 44 preferably bifurcates into a first cooling branch 43a and a second cooling branch 43b.

[0263] In Figure 20 the washing liquid flow path arrangement shown, the flow controller 64 is arranged upstream of the condenser 44 (whereas in Figure 15 [the situation where], the flow controller is downstream of the condenser 44), where the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path 43 at the sump 48 is connected to the inlet of the flow controller 64 via a circulation pump 50. The flow controller 64 may include the one or more outlets 70, 72, 74 connected to the respective spraying devices. The flow controller 64 may further include an outlet 76 connected to the inlet of the condenser 44, where the outlet of the condenser 44 is connected to the sump, preferably the sump nozzle 98, thereby forming the washing liquid cooling path 43. The flow controller may further include an outlet 78, which is connected to the basin outlet, preferably to the basin nozzle 100, thereby forming the circulation flow path 128. In this case, when the washing liquid in the flow controller 64 is guided through the outlet 76, the washing liquid is only guided through the condenser (and thus can be cooled in the reverse mode of the heat pump).

[0264] Figure 21 the heat and washing liquid flow path arrangement shown is very similar to Figure 18 the arrangement shown, where the washing liquid cooling path 43 (preferably having the first cooling branch 43a and / or the second cooling branch 43b) is separate from the circulation flow path 128. For simplicity, only a part of the circulation flow path 128 is shown, which shows the connection to the intermediate spraying device 28a. Compared with Figure 18 [the situation in], the flow controller outlet 78, particularly the basin nozzle 100, is not arranged at the sump, but at or near the side wall of the basin 8. Preferably, the flow controller outlet 78 is arranged at the connector 28 of the intermediate spraying device 28a, such that the washing liquid supplied through the outlet 78 flows along the inner wall of the basin 8 to the bottom of the basin 8 and returns to the sump 48 from there. The washing liquid released from the nozzle 100 is guided to the side wall (here as an example, the inner rear wall of the basin) and guided along the side wall, such that the washing liquid does not contact the articles stored in the basin.

[0265] In the following example, it is described how and when to operate the dishwasher in the reverse mode during the washing cycle, and how the washing liquid circulates through outlet A and / or B and / or through the lower spray device with a reduced flow rate during the reverse mode.

[0266] Regeneration during the washing cycle depending on different heating strategies

[0267] Figure 22 A washing cycle having the following phases is shown: a washing phase WP, an optional cold rinse phase CR, a hot rinse phase HR (wherein in particular a washing liquid with a rinse aid is used), and a drying phase DP for drying the items in the dishwasher 2.

[0268] The washing phase WP includes a first heating period H1, and the hot rinse phase includes a second heating period H2, wherein in each of the heating periods H1, H2, the washing liquid can be heated by operating the heat pump in the normal mode and / or by operating the electric heater. As described above, the electric heater is preferably arranged in the sump 48 for heating the washing liquid.

[0269] A first regeneration period R1 can be provided in the washing phase WP, preferably at the end of the washing phase WP, and / or a second regeneration period R2 can be provided in the cold rinse phase CR (if provided), preferably at the end of the cold rinse phase CR. Additionally or alternatively, a third regeneration period R3 can be provided in the hot rinse phase HR, preferably at the end of the hot rinse phase HR, or as in the Figure 22 example at the start of the drying phase DP. In each of the regeneration periods R1, R2, R3, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode such that the heat exchange medium is heated and thus regenerated. Preferably, at the end of the respective phase or (if applicable) at the end of the respective regeneration period, before the washing liquid is discharged, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode.

[0270] Depending on which type of heating was used in the previous one or more washing liquid heating phases, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode to extract heat from the heated washing liquid, or the heat pump is not operated.

[0271] Furthermore, operating the heat pump in the reverse mode can depend on the amount of items to be washed, the amount of washing liquid in the dishwasher, the washing liquid temperature, and / or on the program selected by the user at the dishwasher or via a device (such as a smartphone) connected to the dishwasher.

[0272] Preferably, during the regeneration periods R1 to R3, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode, and the washing liquid flows along the washing liquid cooling path 43 (see Figures 15 to 21)It circulates from the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path 43 at the liquid collection tank 48 through the outlet A 76 of the flow controller and back to the liquid collection tank 48.

[0273] Alternatively, as described with respect to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , the washing liquid can be circulated through the lower spray device 30a at a reduced flow rate during the regeneration periods R1 to R3, or the washing liquid can be circulated through the basin outlet, preferably the basin nozzle 100, at a reduced flow rate.

[0274] Examples of combinations of the regeneration periods R1 to R3 associated with different heating strategies in the first heating period H1 and the second heating period H2 are shown below:

[0275]

[0276] For example, if the washing liquid is heated only by operating the electric heater during the first heating period H1 and / or the second heating period H2, no heat is extracted from the heat exchange medium in the evaporator 90 during the heating periods H1, H2, and thus regeneration in the regeneration periods R1 and / or R2 may not be necessary. Additionally, regeneration in the regeneration period R3 (i.e., at the end of the hot rinse phase or at the start of the drying phase) may not be necessary (see Example 3) because no heat is extracted from the heat exchange medium.

[0277] Drying phase of the washing cycle

[0278] Figure 23 A detailed view of the drying phase as shown in Figure 22 is shown. The drying phase DP includes a drying period D1 during which the heat pump operates in the reverse mode and the cooled washing liquid is preferably circulated along the washing liquid cooling path 43 (see Figures 15 to 21 ) from the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path 43 at the liquid collection tank 48 through the outlet B 78 of the flow controller into the interior of the basin 8 to cool the basin 8, and from there back to the liquid collection tank 48 via the basin 8. By cooling the basin 8 with the cooled washing liquid, the air inside the basin is cooled, and thus the moisture in the air condenses when it contacts the cooled interior of the basin, and the drying of the washed articles is improved.

[0279] Air circulation during the first drying period D1

[0280] If the dishwasher includes an internal air circulation path 20, it is preferable to circulate the air inside the basin along the internal air circulation path 20 by starting the blower 20c during the drying phase (see Figure 3) Preferably, during the first drying period D1 (i.e., during the operation of the heat pump in the reverse mode and during the circulation of the washing liquid through the basin 8), more preferably after the completion of the circulation of the washing liquid through the sump in the period R3 (if provided), the blower 20c is started. During the first drying period D1, when the washing liquid circulates through the interior of the basin 8, the heat pump, the compressor 92 of the heat pump, and / or the blower 20c of the internal air circulation path 20 are preferably operated continuously or in a pulsed manner, and / or the compressor 92 and the blower operate at least partially simultaneously. The air at the bottom can be cooled by the circulation of the washing liquid through the basin, and the cooled air can be circulated through the internal air circulation path 20 to the top region of the basin. The hot air from the top circulates towards the bottom region and can be cooled by the cooled washing liquid introduced into the interior of the basin. Thus, the internal air circulation aids in the cooling of the air within the basin and thus aids in the drying of the articles.

[0281] Door opening after the drying phase

[0282] In the case of the internal air circulation path 20, a third drying period D3 is preferably provided. As Figure 23 shown, the third drying period D3 is preferably not part of the drying phase DP, but is preferably carried out after the end of the drying phase. In particular, during the drying period D3, the basin is opened. Thus, the remaining warm air can flow out of the interior of the basin and thus the interior of the basin is cooled. Thereby, the removal of moisture from the articles in the basin is further improved. The opening of the basin can include, for example, the opening of the door 18 of the dishwasher. In particular, the door 18 of the dishwasher 2 can be automatically opened after the completion of the drying phase DP. Alternatively, the opening of the basin can include any flow connection from the interior of the basin to the surrounding environment such that the warm air within the basin can flow out of the dishwasher. Preferably, the door is opened or the air is discharged to the surrounding environment after a previous condensation phase such as R3 and / or D1 and / or D2.

[0283] Drying phase without an internal air circulation path

[0284] Figure 24 Another drying phase DP is shown. This configuration is preferably applied when the dishwasher does not include an air circulation flow path 20. Figure 24 The drying phase DP of Figure 23 includes a second drying period D2, which preferably corresponds to the first drying period D1 as described above

[0285] except that no air circulates within the interior of the basin. Thereby, by circulating the cooled washing liquid, the air within the basin and within the interior of the basin is cooled, and thus the moisture in the air condenses upon contact with the cooled interior of the basin, and the drying of the washed articles is improved.

[0285] In connection with Figure 23The drying phase DP shown (wherein a third drying period D3 is carried out after the drying phase DP is completed) is compared with Figure 24 in which the third drying period D3 is carried out during the drying phase DP. In this case, the drying period D3 is part of the drying phase DP. The third drying period D3 is preferably provided after the second drying period (i.e., the washing liquid is circulated through the tub). Other features described with reference to Figure 23 the third drying period D3 of Figure 24 also apply to the third drying period D3 of

[0286] Figure 23 and Figure 24 the regeneration period R3 during the drying phase

[0287] Figure 23 and Figure 24 The drying phase DP of Figure 24 may further include a regeneration period R3 before the drying period D1 (or the drying period D2 in the case of Figure 23 ). The regeneration period R3 may be provided before the washing liquid is circulated through the tub 8 in the drying period D1 (or before the drying period D2 in the case of Figures 15 to 21 ). As described above, during the regeneration period R3, the heat pump operates in the reverse mode, and the washing liquid is circulated from the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path 43 at the sump 48 along the washing liquid cooling path 43 (see Figures 15 to 21 ) back to the sump 48 through the outlet A 76. Therefore, the period R3 can be used to first cool the washing liquid in the sump, and then the cooled washing liquid can be circulated through the tub 8 in the subsequent drying period D1 (or the drying period D2 in the case of Figure 24 ). Thus, due to the temperature difference between the inside of the tub and the cooled liquid circulated through the tub, the condensation of moisture in the tub is more efficient.

[0288] Different flow rates during the regeneration period R3 and the subsequent drying period

[0289] As described with respect to Figure 13 and Figure 14 during the regeneration period R3, the washing liquid can be circulated through the tub outlet (tub nozzle 100) at a reduced flow rate, and in the subsequent drying period D1 (or in the case of Figure 24In the case of D2, it circulates through the tub nozzle 100 at a higher flow rate during that period. Thus, the washing liquid can first circulate through the tub nozzle 100 at a reduced flow rate to cool the washing liquid, and then the cooled washing liquid can circulate through the tub nozzle 100 at a higher flow rate during a subsequent drying period D1 (or D2). When a higher flow rate is applied, the washing liquid has more time and a longer path to exchange heat with the air in the tub 8 and / or the tub 8 until the washing liquid flows back into the sump 48. Thereby, due to the temperature difference between the inside of the tub and the liquid circulating through the tub, the condensation of moisture in the tub is more efficient.

[0290] Alternatively, the washing liquid can circulate through the lower spray device 30a at a reduced flow rate during the regeneration period R3 and the subsequent drying period D1. Thus, the washing liquid and the tub are cooled, and the condensation of moisture is improved without the articles being wetted by the circulating liquid.

[0291] In the following, examples of combinations of the regeneration period R3 and the drying periods D1 to D3 of a dishwasher with and without internal air circulation are shown:

[0292]

[0293] Examples 1 to 4 are Figure 23 Examples of the drying phase DP shown, which drying phase includes a first drying period D1 and wherein the dishwasher includes an internal air circulation path 20. Examples 5 to 7 are Figure 24 Examples of the drying phase DP shown, which drying phase includes a second drying period D2 and wherein the dishwasher does not include an internal air circulation path 20.

[0294] List of reference numerals

[0295] 2 Dishwasher

[0296] 4 Control panel

[0297] 6 Base

[0298] 8 Tub

[0299] 10 Side wall (tub)

[0300] 14 Top wall (tub)

[0301] 16 Tub bottom

[0302] 18 Door

[0303] 20 Internal air circulation path

[0304] 20a Inlet

[0305] 20b Outlet

[0306] 20c Blower

[0307] 22 Wash Liquid Conduit System

[0308] 24 Delivery Conduit

[0309] 26 Connector to Top Spraying Device

[0310] 26a Top Spraying Device / Top Spraying Arm

[0311] 28 Connector to Middle Spraying Arm

[0312] 28a Middle Spraying Device / Middle Spraying Arm

[0313] 30 Connector to Lower Spraying Arm

[0314] 30a Lower Spraying Device / Lower Spraying Arm

[0315] 31 Refrigerant Flow Direction

[0316] 32 Wash Liquid Flow Direction

[0317] 40 Filter Assembly

[0318] 42 Cover Element

[0319] 43 Wash Liquid Cooling Path

[0320] 43a, 43b First Cooling Branch / Second Cooling Branch

[0321] 44 Condenser

[0322] 46 Fresh Water Storage Tank Assembly

[0323] 46a Connector to Basin

[0324] 48 Liquid Collection Tank

[0325] 50, 50a, 50b (First / Second) Circulation Pump

[0326] 52 Softener Assembly

[0327] 54a Outlet to Salt Container

[0328] 54b Outlet to Resin Container

[0329] 56 Flow Connector to Liquid Collection Tank

[0330] 58 Flow Meter

[0331] 59 Discharge Circuit

[0332] 60 Discharge Pump

[0333] 62a-c First / Second / Third discharge path sections

[0334] 64 Flow manifold / Flow controller

[0335] 66 Inlet of the flow controller

[0336] 68a, 68b First / Second fluid flow paths

[0337] 70 First washing fluid outlet

[0338] 72 Second washing fluid outlet

[0339] 74 Third washing fluid outlet

[0340] 76 Fourth washing fluid outlet / Additional outlet A

[0341] 78 Fifth washing fluid outlet / Additional outlet B

[0342] 79 Discharge outlet

[0343] 80a-c First section, Second section, Third section of the condenser

[0344] 81 Spacer element

[0345] 82 First passage (for washing liquid, e.g., outer tube of the condenser)

[0346] 82a Inlet of the first passage

[0347] 82b Outlet of the first passage

[0348] 83 Refrigerant circulation circuit

[0349] 83a-f First refrigerant circuit section, Second refrigerant circuit section, Third refrigerant circuit section, Fourth refrigerant circuit section, Fifth refrigerant circuit section, Sixth refrigerant circuit section

[0350] 84 Second passage (for refrigerant, e.g., inner tube of the condenser)

[0351] 84a Inlet (outlet) of the second passage

[0352] 84b Outlet (inlet) of the second passage

[0353] 86 Refrigerant flow changing device / Switching valve

[0354] 86a, 86b First / Second inlets of the refrigerant flow changing device

[0355] 87a, 87b First / Second outlets of the refrigerant flow changing device

[0356] 88 Expansion device

[0357] 90 Evaporator

[0358] 90a Evaporator inlet

[0359] 90b Evaporator outlet

[0360] 92 Compressor

[0361] 92a, 92b Inlet / Outlet of compressor

[0362] 94 Evaporator storage tank

[0363] 96 Hub for lower spray device

[0364] 98 Sump nozzle

[0365] 100 Basin nozzle

[0366] 102 Flow channel

[0367] 102a First part

[0368] 102b Second part

[0369] 104 Sump attachment

[0370] 106 Fixed element orifice

[0371] 110 Disk part

[0372] 112 Disk

[0373] 113 Orifice of disk

[0374] 114 Cam disk

[0375] 116 Motor

[0376] 118 Housing of flow controller

[0377] 120 Spray jet with reduced flow rate

[0378] 122 Spray jet with higher flow rate

[0379] 124 First area of basin bottom

[0380] 126 Second area of basin bottom

[0381] 128 Recirculation flow path

[0382] 130 Control element

[0383] C Washing fluid flow

[0384] H1, H2 First / Second Heating Periods

[0385] R1 to R3 First / Second / Third Regeneration Periods

[0386] D1 First Drying Period Using Internal Air Circulation

[0387] D2 Second Drying Period Without Air Circulation and with Door Closed

[0388] D3 Third Drying Period with Door Open

[0389] WP Washing Phase

[0390] CR Cold Rinsing Phase

[0391] HR Hot Rinsing Phase

[0392] DP Drying Phase

Claims

1. A method for operating a dishwasher, in particular a dishwasher (2) according to any one of claims 13 to 17, The dishwasher (2) comprises: A cabinet that houses a basin (8) for washing articles therein, A heat pump system having a compressor (92), an evaporator (90) in thermal exchange contact with a heat exchange medium, and a condenser (44), the condenser including a first passage (82) for circulating a washing liquid and a second passage (84) for circulating a refrigerant, wherein the first passage and the second passage (82, 84) are in thermal exchange contact with each other, A refrigerant flow change device (86) adapted to change between a normal mode and a reverse mode of the heat pump, wherein in the normal mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to heat the washing liquid as the washing liquid circulates through the first passage (82) of the condenser (44), and the evaporator (90) is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium, and wherein in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to cool the washing liquid, and the evaporator (90) is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium, An electric heater arranged to heat the washing liquid; and A sump (48) for collecting the washing liquid, Wherein operating the dishwasher (2) includes: Heating the washing liquid during a washing cycle by operating the heat pump in the normal mode and / or by operating the electric heater, and then, Depending on which type of heating was used in a previous washing liquid heating stage or in previous washing liquid stages, operating the heat pump in the reverse mode to extract heat from the heated washing liquid.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein Operating the heat pump in the reverse mode during a washing stage (WP) and / or a cold rinse stage (CR) of the washing cycle, preferably at the end of the washing stage (WP) and / or at the end of the cold rinse stage (CR).

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, Depending on one or more of the following: the amount of articles to be washed, the amount of washing liquid in the dishwasher, the washing liquid temperature, operating the heat pump in the reverse mode only during the washing stage (WP), preferably at the end of the washing stage (WP), or during the cold rinse stage (CR) of the washing cycle, preferably at the end of the cold rinse stage (CR).

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein Depending on one or more of the following: the amount of articles to be washed, the amount of washing liquid in the dishwasher, the washing liquid temperature, operating the heat pump in the reverse mode during the washing stage (WP) and the cold rinse stage (CR) of the washing cycle, preferably at the end of the washing stage (WP) and at the end of the cold rinse stage (CR).

5. The method according to claim 3 or 4, wherein Operating the heat pump in the reverse mode further depends on a program selected by the user at the dishwasher or via a device connected to the dishwasher, such as a smartphone.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Operating the heat pump in the reverse mode at the end of a certain stage of the washing cycle before discharging the washing liquid at the end of that stage.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Operating the heat pump in this reverse mode includes circulating the washing liquid from the sump (48), in particular from an inlet at the sump (48), back to an outlet (98) at or within the sump (48).

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The condenser (44) is arranged at a side wall of the cabinet housing, preferably inside the cabinet housing, facing the inner side of the cabinet side wall.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The condenser (44) includes a first section (80a) and a second section (80b) each extending vertically or substantially vertically, and a third section (80c) connecting the first and second sections (80a, 80b) in the shape of an arc, wherein preferably, the third section (80c) forms an arc with an angle of 180° or substantially 180°.

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The condenser (44) is formed of tubes arranged in thermal contact with each other or includes tubes arranged in thermal contact with each other, wherein the refrigerant flows in at least one tube, the washing liquid flows in at least one other tube, and wherein the refrigerant tubes are in thermal contact with the washing liquid tubes.

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The condenser (44) is a tube-in-tube condenser, the tube-in-tube condenser including an inner tube forming the second (or the first) passage (84) of the condenser (44) and an outer tube forming the first (or the second) passage (82) of the condenser (44), and wherein the inner tube (84) has a smaller cross-section arranged within the outer tube (82) having a larger cross-section, and wherein in particular, respectively, in the outer tube (82), the refrigerant or the washing liquid flows around the inner tube (84), and wherein in the inner tube (84), the washing liquid or the refrigerant flows.

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The dishwasher (2) further includes a washing liquid cooling path (43) for circulating the washing liquid from an inlet at the sump (48) through the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) for selectively cooling the washing liquid in the reverse mode of the heat pump or heating the washing liquid in the normal mode of the heat pump, and back to the sump (48) via an outlet (98) at or within the sump (48).

13. A dishwasher (2), in particular for implementing the method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The dishwasher (2) includes: a cabinet housing a tub (8) for washing articles therein, a heat pump system having a compressor (92), an evaporator (90) in thermal exchange contact with a heat exchange medium, and a condenser (44), the condenser including a first passage (82) for circulating the washing liquid and a second passage (84) for circulating the refrigerant, wherein the first and second passages (82, 84) are in thermal exchange contact with each other, A refrigerant flow changing device (86), which is adapted to change between a normal mode of the heat pump and a reverse mode of the heat pump, wherein, in the normal mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to heat the washing liquid when the washing liquid circulates through the first passage (82) of the condenser, and the evaporator (90) is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium, and wherein, in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to cool the washing liquid, and the evaporator (90) is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium, An electric heater, which is arranged to heat the washing liquid, A sump (48), which is used for collecting the washing liquid, and A control unit, which is adapted to control the operation of the dishwasher (2) during the washing cycle, wherein the control unit is adapted to heat the washing liquid during the washing cycle by operating the heat pump in the normal mode and / or by operating the electric heater, and then, depending on which type of heating was used in a previous washing liquid heating stage or in previous washing liquid stages, operate the heat pump in the reverse mode to extract heat from the heated washing liquid.

14. The dishwasher according to claim 13, wherein, The control unit is adapted to reverse-operate the heat pump during the washing stage (WP) and / or the cold rinse stage (CR) of the washing cycle, preferably at the end of the washing stage (WP) and / or at the end of the cold rinse stage (CR).

15. The dishwasher according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, Depending on one or more of the following: the amount of items to be washed, the amount of washing liquid in the dishwasher, the washing liquid temperature, the control unit is adapted to operate the heat pump in the reverse mode during the washing stage (WP), preferably at the end of the washing stage (WP), and / or during the cold rinse stage (CR) of the washing cycle, preferably at the end of the cold rinse stage (CR).

16. The dishwasher according to claim 15, wherein, The control unit is adapted to further operate the heat pump in the reverse mode depending on a program selected by the user at the dishwasher or via a device connected to the dishwasher, such as a smartphone.

17. The dishwasher according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein, The dishwasher (2) further includes a washing liquid cooling path (43), which has an inlet at the sump (48), the first passage (82) of the condenser (44), and an outlet (98) at the sump (48), and the first passage is used to selectively cool the washing liquid in the reverse mode of the heat pump or heat the washing liquid in the normal mode of the heat pump.

18. A method for operating a dishwasher, in particular a dishwasher according to any one of claims 24 to 27, The dishwasher (2) includes: A cabinet, which houses a basin (8) for washing items therein, A heat pump system having a compressor (92), an evaporator (90) in thermal exchange contact with a heat exchange medium, and a condenser (44) including a first passage (82) for circulating a washing liquid and a second passage (84) for circulating a refrigerant, wherein the first passage and the second passage (82, 84) are in thermal exchange contact with each other. A refrigerant flow changing device (86) adapted to change between a normal mode and a reverse mode of the heat pump, wherein in the normal mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to heat the washing liquid as the washing liquid circulates through the first passage (82) of the condenser, and the evaporator (90) is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium, and wherein in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to cool the washing liquid, and the evaporator (90) is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium. A liquid collection tank (48) for collecting the washing liquid. A washing liquid cooling path (43) which is a circulation loop having an inlet at the liquid collection tank (48) and an outlet (98) at or within the liquid collection tank (48). Wherein operating the dishwasher includes: Heating the washing liquid by operating the heat pump in the normal mode during a washing phase (WP) of a washing cycle, and then, Operating the heat pump in the reverse mode to extract heat from the heated washing liquid and circulate the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path (43), and then, Heating the washing liquid by operating the heat pump in the normal mode during a hot rinse phase (HR) of the washing cycle.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein, The evaporator (90) is arranged within an evaporator tank (94) containing the heat exchange medium, and / or Wherein the evaporator (90) and optionally the evaporator tank (94) are arranged below the basin (8).

20. The method according to claim 19 or 20, wherein When circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path (43), the washing liquid is directly guided back to the liquid collection tank (48) via the outlet (98) at or within the liquid collection tank (48), preferably without an open flow path and / or without being guided through the interior of the basin (8) within the basin (8).

21. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 20, the method comprising: After heating the washing liquid in the hot rinse phase (HR), operating the heat pump in the reverse mode and circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path (43).

22. The method according to claim 19 or 21, wherein Providing a cold rinse phase (CR) between the washing phase (WP) and the hot rinse phase (HR), and Wherein preferably, the method includes operating the heat pump in the reverse mode during the cold rinse phase (CR), preferably at the end of the cold rinse phase (CR), and circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path (43).

23. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein, During this washing phase (WP) or at the end of this washing phase and / or during this cold rinse phase (CR) or at the end of this cold rinse phase and / or during this hot rinse phase (HR) or at the end of this hot rinse phase, before discharging the washing liquid at the end of the respective phase, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode and the washing liquid is circulated along the washing liquid cooling path (43).

24. A dishwasher (2), in particular a dishwasher for implementing the method according to any one of claims 19 to 23, the dishwasher comprising: a cabinet that houses a basin (8) for washing articles therein, a heat pump system having a compressor (92), an evaporator (90) in thermal exchange contact with a heat exchange medium, and a condenser (44), the condenser including a first passage (82) for circulating the washing liquid and a second passage (84) for circulating the refrigerant, wherein the first passage and the second passage (82, 84) are in thermal exchange contact with each other, a refrigerant flow change device (86) adapted to change between a normal mode and a reverse mode of the heat pump, wherein, in the normal mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to heat the washing liquid as the washing liquid circulates through the first passage (82) of the condenser, and the evaporator (90) is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium, and wherein, in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to cool the washing liquid, and the evaporator (90) is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium, a sump (48) for collecting the washing liquid, a washing liquid cooling path (43) which is a circulation loop having an inlet at the sump (48) and an outlet (98) at or within the sump (48), and a control unit adapted to control the operation of the dishwasher during the wash cycle, wherein the control unit is adapted to heat the washing liquid by operating the heat pump in the normal mode during the washing phase (WP) of the wash cycle, and then, operate the heat pump in the reverse mode to extract heat from the heated washing liquid and circulate the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path, and then, heat the washing liquid by operating the heat pump in the normal mode during the hot rinse phase (HR) of the wash cycle.

25. The dishwasher according to claim 24, wherein, When the washing liquid is circulated along the washing liquid cooling path (43), the spraying device provided inside the basin (8) and configured to spray the washing liquid onto the articles in the basin (8) is bypassed.

26. The dishwasher according to claim 24 or 25, wherein, The washing liquid cooling path (43) includes the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) preferably arranged downstream or upstream of a flow manifold or a flow controller (64).

27. The dishwasher according to claim 26, wherein, The first passage (82) of the condenser is arranged upstream of the flow manifold or the flow controller (64), wherein the flow manifold or the flow controller (64) includes at least an outlet A (76), and Wherein, the washing liquid cooling path (43) includes an outlet A (76) that connects the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) to an outlet (98) at or within the liquid collection tank (48).

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