Dishwasher with heat pump

Abstract

The invention provides a dishwasher with a heat pump. The dishwasher (2) comprises: a cabinet housing a tub (8) for washing items therein; a spray device (26a, 28a, 30a) disposed inside the tub (8) and configured to spray a washing liquid to the articles in the tub (8); a heat pump system having a compressor (92), an evaporator (90), a condenser (44), an expansion device (88), and a refrigerant flow changing device (86) adapted to change between a normal mode of the heat pump and a reverse mode of the heat pump, where the condenser (44) comprises a first passage (82) and a second passage (84) in heat exchange contact with each other; a heat exchange medium in heat exchange contact with the evaporator (90) wherein, in a normal mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to heat the washing liquid as it 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 a reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to heat the washing liquid as it circulates through the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) and the evaporator (90) is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium. 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 control unit adapted to control the operation of the dishwasher (2) during a wash cycle; and a washing liquid cooling path (43) comprising an inlet provided at the sump (48), a circulating pump (50, 50b), a first passage (82) of the condenser (44) for cooling the washing liquid in a reverse mode of the heat pump, and at least one outlet (98, 100) for supplying the cooled washing liquid back to the sump (48), the washing liquid cooling path (43) bypasses the spray device (26a, 28a, 30a).

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 washing liquid from a 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 dishwasher. The dishwasher, in particular a dishwasher for implementing the method as disclosed herein, comprises: a cabinet that houses a tub for washing articles therein; a spraying device that is disposed inside the tub and is configured to spray washing liquid onto the articles in the tub; a heat pump system having a compressor, an evaporator, a condenser, an expansion device, and a refrigerant flow changing device that is adapted to change between a normal mode and a reverse mode of the heat pump, wherein the condenser includes a first passage and a second passage that are in heat exchange contact with each other; and a heat exchange medium that is in heat exchange contact with the evaporator. 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, while 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. The dishwasher further comprises: a sump for collecting washing liquid; a control unit that is adapted to control the operation of the dishwasher during a washing cycle; and a washing liquid cooling path that includes: an inlet disposed at the sump, a circulation pump, the first passage of the condenser for cooling the washing liquid in the reverse mode of the heat pump, and at least one outlet for supplying the cooled washing liquid back to the sump, wherein the washing liquid cooling path bypasses the spraying device.

[0006] Preferably, the washing liquid circulates in the first passage of the condenser, and the refrigerant circulates in the second passage of the condenser.

[0007] The washing liquid cooling path may form a single flow path having one inlet and one outlet, or may include a number of branches (such as the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch as described below), the number of branches each having its own outlet, such that the plurality of sections of the washing liquid cooling path extend differently.

[0008] In the washing liquid cooling path, guiding the washing liquid from the first passage of the condenser "back to the sump" 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 being 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.

[0009] Alternatively or additionally, in the washing liquid cooling path, guiding the washing liquid from the first passage of the condenser "back to the sump" may mean that the washing liquid is guided back to the sump via the tub. That is, the washing liquid cooling path may include an outlet within the interior of the tub and an open flow path section within the tub or a flow path section that exchanges heat with the interior of the tub, such that the circulating washing liquid exchanges heat with the interior of the tub and returns to the sump via the tub.

[0010] The washing liquid preferably circulates along the washing liquid cooling path, and in particular circulates through the sump and / or the tub, such that the articles loaded in the dishwasher are not contacted by the cooled washing liquid.

[0011] The tub is preferably made of metal (such as steel), and / or the sump is preferably made of plastic. When the washing liquid circulates through the sump, the washing liquid preferably does not contact the tub, and thus the tub is not or is substantially not cooled by the washing liquid. When the washing liquid circulates through the tub, the washing liquid preferably contacts the inner wall of the tub and thus cools the tub.

[0012] The "reverse mode" can be used for the regeneration of the heat exchange medium and / or for drying the articles. In particular, the "reverse mode" may mean 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 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.

[0013] When the washing liquid is circulated through the tub, especially during the drying phase, in the reverse mode, the washing liquid is heated by the heat of the tub / structure of the dishwasher, and thus the tub is cooled. Then, the heat extracted from the tub / 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 tub, the residual heat in the tub / structure of the dishwasher can be extracted and used for the regeneration of the heat exchange medium. Further, when the washing liquid is circulated through the tub, 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 tub condenses when contacting the cooled inner part of the tub, and the drying of the washed items is improved.

[0014] 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 the purposes of regeneration and / or drying when regenerating the heat exchange medium and / or improving drying by cooling the tub (inside).

[0015] The heat pump can be operated in the reverse mode and heat can be extracted from the washing liquid and transferred 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).

[0016] 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 at the temperature of the refrigerant in the evaporator and in the normal operating mode, and such that a solid / liquid transition can be achieved at the temperature of the refrigerant in the evaporator and 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.

[0017] The "inside" of the tub is preferably 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 "inside" of the tub.

[0018] The dishwasher may include a filtration assembly (such as the cover element further mentioned below) disposed at the sump. The filtration assembly may act as a filter for the wash liquid returning to the sump (e.g., after the wash fluid has been deployed in the tub via the spray device).

[0019] "Bypassing the spray device" preferably means that when the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode and the wash liquid is guided along the wash liquid cooling path, then no wash liquid is guided to the spray device. Thus, the articles are not contacted by and not cooled by the wash liquid supplied via the spray device. For example, a valve may be arranged to prevent the flow of wash liquid to the spray device, or the following flow controller may be controlled such that the wash fluid outlets connected to the spray device or any spray arms of the spray device may be closed.

[0020] The circulation pump is preferably a variable speed pump.

[0021] 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 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 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.

[0022] Preferably, the evaporator and / or the compressor and / or the expansion device and / or the refrigerant flow changing device are arranged in the bottom area or the base of the dishwasher. The evaporator is preferably arranged within an evaporator tank containing a heat exchange medium.

[0023] The evaporation tank is preferably arranged in the bottom area 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 may be enclosed by heat insulating material.

[0024] 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 operating 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, which then evaporates. The heated refrigerant in the gas phase is sucked in by the compressor and conveyed to the condenser. When the heat pump is operated in the reverse operating 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.

[0025] 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 begins when the circulation of the washing liquid through the spraying device is stopped.

[0026] Washing liquid cooling path arrangement

[0027] Preferably, the washing liquid cooling path includes: a first cooling branch connecting the 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 an outlet within the interior of the tub for cooling the interior of the tub, wherein the washing liquid guided along the second cooling branch returns to the sump via the tub. Additionally, the dishwasher may further include a hydraulic circulation arrangement having at least one controllable component, wherein, under the 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.

[0028] 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, wherein 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, which flow path bifurcates into the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch at a bifurcation point.

[0029] 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, wherein the first cooling branch includes outlet A connecting the first passage of the condenser to an outlet at or within the sump, and / or wherein the second cooling branch includes outlet B connecting the first passage of the condenser to an outlet within the interior of the tub. 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.

[0030] The flow controller or the flow manifold may be a device for guiding the washing liquid along different flow paths.

[0031] A "flow manifold" may include a plurality of valves adapted to direct wash liquid along different flow paths, such as a first cooling branch and / or a second cooling branch. The flow manifold may have a flow path for each spray arm of a dishwasher's spray device, such as a lower spray arm, a middle spray arm, and an upper spray arm. Preferably, a valve is arranged in each flow path upstream of the spray arm for opening and closing the flow of wash liquid to each spray arm.

[0032] A "flow controller" may include a plurality of wash fluid outlets, such as outlet A and / or B and / or one or more outlets connected to one or more spray arms of a spray device for spraying wash liquid onto 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 providing only outlet A or B, the flow controller preferably includes a total of 4 outlets. These wash fluid outlets are preferably arranged at the bottom of the basin and more preferably integrated in the sump.

[0033] The flow controller may include a positioning device and a disk rotatably arranged relative to the plurality of wash fluid outlets, wherein the disk includes a plurality of orifices arranged to selectively close and open the plurality of wash 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 wash fluid outlets, wash liquid is allowed to pass from the flow controller along each aligned wash 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, wash 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 wash fluid outlets connected to the spray device, wash fluid is supplied from the flow controller to the basin through the wash fluid outlet via the corresponding spray device.

[0034] The control unit is preferably adapted to control the flow controller or the flow manifold such that wash liquid is directed along one or more of these wash fluid outlets.

[0035] In an alternative water flow arrangement, a first passage of the condenser is arranged upstream of the flow controller or flow manifold, wherein the flow controller or 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 flow manifold. In this case, the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch do not include the flow controller or flow manifold.

[0036] Preferably, the flow controller or flow manifold has a closed position in which no washing liquid can pass through any outlet of the flow controller or flow manifold.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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 flow manifold (from the flow connection between the condenser and the flow controller). For example, the common flow path 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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 bifurcates into a first cooling branch connected to an outlet at or inside the sump and a second cooling branch connected to an outlet inside the basin. If three outlets are provided (i.e., one outlet for each spraying arm) and the above-mentioned outlet connected to the first passage of the condenser, the flow controller preferably has at least 4 outlets in total.

[0041] Preferably, the first cooling path and the second cooling path have a common flow path from the inlet of the circulation flow path at the sump to the point where the flow path bifurcates 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 bifurcation point for selectively guiding the washing liquid along the first cooling path and / or the second cooling path.

[0042] 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 bowl nozzles and / or the lower spray device is reduced or increased.

[0043] The dishwasher may include: a first circulation pump and a second circulation pump (the above-mentioned circulation pumps), a circulation flow path, which includes: an inlet provided at the sump, and a flow controller or a flow manifold, the flow controller or the flow manifold including at least one outlet connected to the spray device for spraying the washing liquid into the interior of the bowl 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, particularly along the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch.

[0044] Since the second circulation pump does not circulate the washing liquid through the spray device, and particularly does not circulate the washing liquid to one or more of the lower spray arm, the middle spray arm and / or the top spray 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. Therefore, the second circulation pump can be smaller (i.e., lower power) than the first circulation pump. Therefore, the energy consumption of the second circulation pump is less than that of the first circulation pump. Therefore, energy can be saved compared to a configuration having a single circulation pump for the washing liquid cooling path and the circulation flow path.

[0045] Instead of a washing liquid cooling path having a first cooling branch and a 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 within the interior of the tub. Thus, 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.

[0046] 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 guided along the washing liquid cooling path and / or along the circulation flow path. The control element may be a valve element, preferably an electronic valve. Alternatively, a valve element may be provided in each of the washing liquid cooling path and the circulation flow path.

[0047] The washing liquid cooling path and the circulation flow path may have at least a partially common flow path downstream of the sump and / or upstream of the first passage of the condenser.

[0048] The flow path downstream of the sump and upstream of the first passage of the condenser may 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.

[0049] Alternatively, the dishwasher includes a flow controller or flow manifold having at least an outlet A and an outlet B and arranged upstream of the first passage of the condenser, a circulation flow path including an inlet provided at the sump and an outlet within the interior of the tub, wherein the inlet of the flow controller or flow manifold is connected to the inlet of the circulation flow path at the sump, and wherein the washing liquid cooling path includes an outlet A connected to the inlet of the first passage of the condenser. Further, the circulation flow path may include an outlet B that bypasses the condenser and is connected to the outlet within the interior of the tub.

[0050] In this case, when the washing liquid circulates along the washing liquid cooling path via the outlet A of the flow controller or 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 may be circulated along the circulation flow path via the outlet B to the interior of the tub and the interior volume of the tub.

[0051] The control unit is preferably adapted to control the flow controller or the flow manifold such that the washing liquid circulates alternately through outlet A (and thus through the first passage of the condenser) or outlet B, or at least partly simultaneously through outlets A and B.

[0052] Preferably, the dishwasher comprises a flow controller or the flow controller having one or more outlets connected to the spraying device with one or more spray arms, 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 tub. 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 accommodated in the tub.

[0053] The spraying device preferably comprises a plurality of outlets connected to the spraying device, such as one outlet for each of the first spray arm, the second spray arm and the third spray arm connected to the spraying device. Preferably, the first spray arm is a lower spray arm arranged at the bottom of the tub, the second spray arm is a middle spray arm arranged in the middle of the tub, and the third spray arm is a top spray arm arranged at the top of the tub.

[0054] Preferably, the circulation pump for circulating the washing liquid to the (one or more) spraying devices 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).

[0055] The control unit may 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.

[0056] Sump nozzle / tub nozzle

[0057] Preferably, the outlet at or in the sump is a sump nozzle arranged at the sump below the bottom of the tub or an outlet in the bottom wall or side wall of the sump, and / or the outlet in the tub is a tub nozzle which is arranged inside the tub volume 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 the fluid path section arranged in the tub for supplying the washing liquid to the spraying device.

[0058] Preferably, the fluid path section is a section extending 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.

[0059] Preferably, the dishwasher includes a lid element which is arranged at the bottom of the tub, above the sump, wherein the tub nozzles and / or the sump nozzles are at least partially integrated in the lid element. 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 a flow manifold or a flow controller. The flow manifold or the flow controller may be arranged at the sump and is 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.

[0060] 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 tub to the sump.

[0061] The lid element and the sump nozzles and / or the tub nozzles may be formed as a single piece, preferably made of plastic material.

[0062] The sump, in particular the flow controller or the manifold which is 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.

[0063] 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 tub nozzle. The outlet A may extend vertically or substantially vertically from the sump, and the side wall of the outlet A includes an orifice which fluidly connects the outlet A to the flow channel.

[0064] Preferably, the lid element extends above these washing fluid outlets, and the lid element includes sump attachments, the size and shape of each sump attachment being determined to fit onto a corresponding washing liquid outlet of the sump to connect each of the plurality of washing fluid outlets to a corresponding spraying device and / or the sump nozzle and / or the tub nozzle. In particular, the sump attachments extend from the lower surface of the lid element facing the washing fluid outlets.

[0065] 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 one of these plurality of outlets to a spraying device for a lower spray arm. The hub is preferably made in one piece with the lid element.

[0066] Preferably, the sump nozzle and / or one or the flow channels connected to the sump nozzle are arranged at the lower surface of the cover element, and / or the tub nozzle is arranged at the top surface of the cover element.

[0067] The sump nozzle and / or the flow channels 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.

[0068] The tub nozzle is preferably arranged inside the interior of the tub, i.e., the washing liquid exiting the tub nozzle is directed 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.

[0069] 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 a single piece with the cover element, and / or the second part is formed as a single piece with the sump.

[0070] 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.

[0071] Condenser

[0072] 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 outside 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.

[0073] Preferably, the condenser extends in a vertical or substantially vertical plane.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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°.

[0076] 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 washing liquid flows around the inner tube, and wherein, within the inner tube, the washing liquid or refrigerant flows.

[0077] 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.

[0078] The inner tube may have a single circular tube or may have a plurality of tubes arranged in parallel within the outer tube.

[0079] 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).

[0080] The condenser, in particular the outer tube of the condenser, may be enclosed by a heat-insulating layer.

[0081] The inner tube may include at least two ducts arranged parallel or substantially parallel to each other. Preferably, the inner tube of the condenser bifurcates into at least two ducts at a first bifurcation point (i.e., at the inlet of the inner tube) disposed within the outer tube and merges into a single tube at a second bifurcation point (i.e., at the outlet of the inner tube) disposed within the outer tube.

[0082] 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.

[0083] Except at the spacer elements, within the outer tube, the inner and outer walls or inner and outer surfaces 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.

[0084] Preferably, the dishwasher includes one or the circulation pump for circulating the washing liquid from the sump through the 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. Therefore, after the circulation pump is turned off, there is no or substantially no washing liquid remaining in the condenser. The fouling of the condenser and the formation of bad odors over time due to the washing liquid remaining in the condenser can be prevented. It also prevents the "old" washing liquid remaining in the condenser from being circulated back to the sump in the next washing cycle and being reused for the washing cycle.

[0085] Furthermore, a method for operating a dishwasher, in particular a dishwasher as disclosed herein (see dishwasher claims and above), is provided. The dishwasher includes: a cabinet that houses a basin for washing articles therein; a spraying device that is disposed inside the basin and is configured to spray the washing liquid onto the articles in the basin; a heat pump system that has a compressor, an evaporator, a condenser, an expansion device, and a refrigerant flow changing device that is adapted to change between a normal mode of the heat pump and a reverse mode of the heat pump. The condenser includes: a first passage (preferably for the washing liquid) and a second passage (preferably for the heat pump refrigerant) that are in heat exchange contact with each other; a heat exchange medium that is in heat exchange contact with the evaporator, 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; and a sump for collecting the washing liquid. Operating the dishwasher includes: operating the heat pump in the reverse mode during a washing cycle and circulating the washing liquid along a washing liquid cooling path that forms a closed loop with the sump and the first passage of the condenser for cooling the washing liquid and recycling the cooled washing liquid back to the sump, wherein the spraying device is bypassed during the circulation of the washing liquid.

[0086] The closed loop is preferably not a completely fluid-closed loop. Preferably, the closed loop means that the same washing liquid from the sump is recycled along the closed loop. The closed loop is preferably not fluidly connected to any of the spray arms.

[0087] Preferably, the closed loop corresponds to the washing liquid cooling path disclosed herein, particularly to a washing liquid cooling path having an inlet provided at the sump, a circulation pump, a first passage of a condenser, and at least one outlet for supplying the cooled washing liquid back to the sump. In this "closed" loop, the flow path bypasses the spray arm such that when the circulation through the closed loop is initiated, no liquid passes through the spray arm.

[0088] The washing liquid cooling path may include a first cooling branch or the first cooling branch described above and / or a second cooling branch or the second cooling branch described above, wherein operating the dishwasher includes: in a first heat exchange mode a) of the washing cycle: operating the heat pump in a reverse mode and circulating the washing liquid along the first cooling branch from the inlet at the sump back to the outlet at or within the sump, and / or in a second heat exchange mode b) of the washing cycle: operating the heat pump in a reverse mode and conveying the washing liquid along the second cooling branch from the inlet at the sump into the interior of the tub to cool the interior of the tub, and from there back to the sump via the tub.

[0089] Preferably or mandatorily, in heat exchange mode a), and in the case where the washing liquid "is supplied back to the sump", the washing liquid does not pass through or flow through the interior of the tub.

[0090] The first heat exchange mode a) is preferably used during a first washing stage and / or time period of the washing cycle, while the second heat exchange mode b) is preferably used during a second washing stage and / or time period of the washing cycle after the first washing stage and / or time period.

[0091] In both heat exchange modes a) and b), the washing liquid is preferably cooled due to the reverse operating mode of the heat pump. Thus, the cooled washing liquid circulates between the sump and the tub and / or the sump.

[0092] The circulation in the first heat exchange mode a) is preferably used for regenerating / thawing a heat exchange medium preferably accommodated in an evaporator tank.

[0093] The circulation in the second heat exchange mode b) is preferably used for cooling the tub and / or the hot air within the tub, preferably during the drying stage, for improving the drying process. In addition to cooling the tub, the heat exchange medium can also be regenerated. In the second heat exchange mode b), the washing liquid introduced into the interior of the tub automatically flows back to the sump due to gravity and can be circulated again.

[0094] The arrangement and components of the washing liquid cooling path and / or the circulating flow path have been described in detail above with respect to the dishwasher. These arrangements and components are also applicable to the method described herein.

[0095] Alternatively, the dishwasher includes a circulation flow path having an inlet of the washing liquid cooling path at the sump and an outlet inside the tub, wherein operating the dishwasher includes: in a first heat exchange mode a) of the washing cycle: operating the heat pump in a reverse mode and circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path from the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path at the sump back to the outlet at or inside the sump, and / or in a second heat exchange mode b) of the washing cycle: operating the heat pump in a reverse mode and conveying the washing liquid along the circulation flow path from the inlet of the circulation flow path at the sump into the interior of the tub to cool the interior of the tub, and from there back to the sump via the tub.

[0096] The circulation flow path is preferably at least partially separate from the washing liquid cooling path. In particular, only the washing liquid cooling path includes a first passage of the condenser, i.e., the washing liquid is only cooled when circulating along the washing liquid cooling path.

[0097] Preferably, the first heat exchange mode a) is carried out at the end of the washing phase and / or the cold rinse phase and / or the hot rinse phase of the washing cycle and / or at least partially during the drying phase, and / or preferably the first heat exchange mode a) is carried out before discharge at the end of the washing phase and / or the cold rinse phase. The cold rinse phase of the washing cycle can be an optional phase.

[0098] When in the heating phase, when the washing liquid is heated by operating the heat pump in the normal operating mode, the heat exchange medium in the evaporator tank cools, and the heat exchange medium can eventually freeze, where the latent heat from the liquid-to-solid phase change is released. Then the solid-phase heat exchange medium (ice) can be regenerated by performing the first heat exchange mode a) without cooling the tub, and thus the efficiency of the washing cycle is increased.

[0099] Cool the washing liquid in the sump by the regeneration mode of the heat pump so that the residual heat contained in the washing liquid can be transferred to the evaporator tank before being discharged from the dishwasher.

[0100] Drying phase

[0101] Preferably, the second heat exchange mode b) is carried out during the drying phase of the washing cycle.

[0102] Preferably, in addition to the second heat exchange mode b), the first heat exchange mode a) is also carried out during the drying phase. The first heat exchange mode a) can be carried out at the start of the drying phase, and the second heat exchange mode b) can be carried out after the first heat exchange mode a) or at least partially simultaneously with the first heat exchange mode during the drying phase. Thus, the washing liquid can be cooled during the first heat exchange mode a), and then the cooled washing liquid can be circulated through the tub via the second heat exchange mode b).

[0103] Since the washing liquid is cooled during the circulation in the first heat exchange mode a) and thus has a reduced temperature, the cooling efficiency of the washing liquid circulated during the second heat exchange mode b) for cooling the tub is improved.

[0104] The dishwasher can include an internal air circulation path for circulating air within the tub, wherein the air circulation is started by activating a blower during the drying phase. Preferably, the air circulation is carried out 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)).

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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 tub. 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 tub. Thus, the internal air circulation can assist in the cooling of the air within the tub and thus assist in the drying of the articles. As a side effect, the heat extracted from the hot air within the tub 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.

[0107] Preferably, the tub opening is automatically provided after the drying phase is completed. For example, the tub opening is achieved by at least partially opening the door of the dishwasher. Due to the opening of the tub, especially the opening of the door, the warm air (still having residual moisture) can flow out of the tub, and the interior of the tub cools. Thus, the drying of the articles is further improved. The tub or the door can be automatically closed after a predetermined time period has elapsed.

[0108] 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.

[0109] "Pulsed operation" means that the component is alternately operated 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.

[0110] In the case where no internal air circulation path is provided, it is preferable to provide basin opening 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 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 end of the drying phase, the door can be automatically closed, particularly after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0111] Preferably, during the circulation of the washing liquid through the interior of the basin, the air in 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 in 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 achieve an improved regeneration of the heat exchange medium. In particular, the heat contained in the air in the basin (from the hot dishes) is transferred to the heat exchange medium.

[0112] Preferably, at the start of the drying phase and / or after discharging the washing liquid in the final rinse phase, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the washing liquid is circulated through the basin (i.e., in the second heat exchange mode b) (and / or the blower is started).

[0113] Preferably, at the end of the final rinse phase, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode, and by circulating the washing liquid used in the final rinse phase, the washing liquid is cooled so that heat is transferred from the washing liquid to the refrigerant and ultimately to the heat exchange medium (as described herein). That is, for a 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 basin during the initial stage of the drying phase. Then (after a predetermined period of time) the blower is started to further cool the interior (air) of the basin.

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

[0115] Different heating strategies

[0116] The dishwasher can include an electric heater arranged to heat the washing liquid. Further, the control unit can be adapted to heat the washing liquid during the washing cycle by operating the heat pump in a 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.

[0117] By operating the heat pump in a normal mode and / or Heating the washing liquid by operating the electric heater can include heating only by operating the heat pump, only by operating the electric heater, or by operating both the heat pump and the electric heater. This can also include, for example, the 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.

[0118] Preferably, the washing liquid is heated during the washing stage of the washing cycle.

[0119] Preferably, depending on one or more of the following:

[0120] - the quantity of items to be washed,

[0121] - the quantity of washing liquid within the dishwasher,

[0122] - the washing liquid temperature,

[0123] The heat pump is operated in the reverse mode (preferably circulating through the sump without passing through the interior of the tub) 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.

[0124] Preferably, operating the heat pump in the reverse mode further depends on the program selected by the user at the dishwasher or via a device (such as a smartphone) connected to the dishwasher.

[0125] If, for example, the washing liquid is heated only by the electric heater during the hot rinse stage or if no cold rinse stage is provided, it may not be necessary to regenerate the heat exchange medium by operating the heat pump in the reverse mode.

[0126] If, for example, the washing liquid was heated by an electric heater during a previous heating phase, it is preferably not to operate the heat pump in reverse mode during the washing phase and the cold rinse phase. Heating only with the electric heater means that no cold or solid-phase heat exchange medium is formed in the evaporator tank.

[0127] If, for example, the washing liquid was heated by operating the heat pump in normal mode during a previous heating phase, it is preferably to operate the heat pump in reverse mode during the washing phase and the cold rinse phase.

[0128] The washing liquid can be heated during a previous heating phase successively or at least partially simultaneously by operating the heat pump in normal mode and operating the electric heater.

[0129] When operating the heat pump and the electric heater successively

[0130] a) The main heating of the washing liquid is carried out by operating the heat pump in 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 normal mode, and the electric heater only supports the heating. In this case, the heat pump can be operated in reverse mode only during the washing phase and not during the cold rinse phase.

[0131] 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 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 normal mode only supports the heating. In this case, the heat pump can be operated in reverse mode neither during the cold rinse phase nor during the washing phase.

[0132] When operating the heat pump and the electric heater at least partially simultaneously

[0133] In this case, the heat pump can be operated in reverse mode only during the cold rinse phase and not during the washing phase. This kind of heating can be applied to the quick / rapid washing program of the dishwasher. Since the heating is achieved simultaneously by the heat pump and the electric heater, less solid-phase heat exchange medium 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.

[0134] In a further embodiment, operating the dishwasher can include: heating the washing liquid by operating the heat pump in normal mode during the washing phase of the washing cycle, then operating the heat pump in 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 normal mode during the hot rinse phase of the washing cycle. Thus, the heat contained in the washing liquid can be used to heat the heat exchange medium and the evaporator, and thus melt the solid phase that may be formed in the evaporator tank.

[0135] Preferably, the method comprises: after heating the washing liquid during a hot rinse phase, operating the heat pump in a reverse mode and circulating the washing liquid along a washing liquid cooling path.

[0136] Preferably, a cold rinse phase is provided between the washing phase and the hot rinse phase, and wherein preferably, the method comprises operating the heat pump in a reverse mode and circulating the washing liquid along a washing liquid cooling path during the cold rinse phase.

[0137] 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 individually combined with the method. Conversely, any individual (functional) feature or (functional) subset of features of the method can be combined with the dishwasher as a functional feature of the machine.

[0138] Any feature disclosed herein (for the above 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.

[0139] 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:

[0140] Figure 1 A perspective view of a dishwasher,

[0141] Figure 2 Without the door, side walls and top wall of the basin Figure 1 Another perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0142] Figure 3 Without the bottom of the basin Figure 2 A perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0143] Figure 4 Without the air circulation path Figure 3 A top view of the dishwasher,

[0144] Figure 5 Figure 4 A perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0145] Figure 6 Figure 5 Another perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0146] Figure 7 Figure 6 A perspective view of the refrigerant circulation circuit,

[0147] Figure 8 Figure 3 Stereogram of the liquid collection tank and the filtration component of the dishwasher

[0148] Figure 9 Stereogram of the liquid collection tank and the flow controller

[0149] Figure 10 Cross-sectional view of the flow channel formed between the cover element and the liquid collection tank

[0150] Figure 11 Figure 10 Stereogram of the cover element seen from below

[0151] Figure 12 Figure 9 Exploded view of the liquid collection tank and the flow controller

[0152] Figure 13 Enlarged view of the basin nozzle spraying the washing liquid at different flow rates

[0153] Figure 14 Enlarged view of the lower spray arm spraying the washing liquid at a reduced flow rate

[0154] Figure 15 Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement of the dishwasher

[0155] Figure 16 Schematic diagram of another heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0156] Figure 17 Schematic diagram of another heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0157] Figure 18 Schematic diagram of another heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0158] Figure 19 Schematic diagram of another heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0159] Figure 20 Schematic diagram of another heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0160] Figure 21 Schematic diagram of another heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0161] Figure 22 Schematic diagram of the washing cycle with different stages

[0162] Figure 23 As Figure 22 Shown detailed view of the drying stage, and

[0163] Figure 24 Detailed view of another drying stage.

[0164] Figure 1 Is a perspective view of a dishwasher having a heat pump system, Figure 2 Is without the door, side walls and top wall of the basin Figure 1 Another perspective view of the dishwasher. 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 Figure 2 ). The cabinet may further include a base 6 disposed below the basin bottom 16.

[0165] Dishes, cookware, and other tableware (also referred to herein as "items") can be placed in the basin 8 for cleaning. The dishwasher 2 may also include a slidable lower and upper shelf or basket (not shown) for holding the items to be cleaned. The shelf can be moved into or out of the basin 8. The dishwasher 2 may further include a door 18 that can be pivotally connected to the basin 8 to selectively allow access to the basin 8 for loading and unloading items, and the door is closed when the dishwasher 2 is in operation (e.g., when the items in the dishwasher 2 are being washed and / or cleaned).

[0166] The dishwasher 2 may have a control panel 4 that is preferably disposed in the upper region of the front of the dishwasher, such as in the middle and / or right side of the upper region of the front of the dishwasher. Preferably, the control panel 4 is integrated in the door 18, and more preferably disposed in the upper region of the door 18. The control panel 4 preferably includes a display for displaying information about the washing program (such as energy consumption, duration of the washing cycle, etc.) and an input device for selecting between different washing programs.

[0167] As Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown, the dishwasher 2 may include an internal air circulation path 20 for circulating air within the basin 8 preferably during drying of the items housed in the basin 8. The air circulation path 20 may include an inlet 20a and an outlet 20b each connected to the interior 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 disposed on opposite side walls of the basin 8. For the normal operating position of the dishwasher, the inlet 20a is preferably disposed on the right side wall of the basin 8, and the outlet 20b is disposed on the left side wall of the basin. The inlet 20a may be disposed at a vertical position higher than the vertical position of the outlet 20b. The air circulation path 20 preferably extends outside the basin 8.

[0168] As Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the dishwasher 2 can include a washing liquid circulation path for circulating the washing liquid during the washing cycle. In particular, the washing liquid collected in the sump 48 (see Figure 3 ) can 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 contained in the tub 8 under pressure during use of the dishwasher.

[0169] As Figure 2 shown, the dishwasher 2 can include a filtration assembly 40 connected to the sump 48 (see Figure 3 ). The filtration assembly 40 is configured to filter the washing liquid returning to the sump 48 after the washing liquid has been deployed in the tub 8.

[0170] The dishwasher 2 can include a control unit (not shown) that communicates with one or more of the functional components of the dishwasher. For example, the control unit can communicate with the circulation pump 50 and can 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 can include a flow manifold or a flow controller 64 (the flow manifold can be any device having valves for directing the washing liquid along different flow paths, and the flow controller is preferably a device as shown in, for example Figure 13 ). The control unit can be adapted to control the flow controller 64, as will be described in more detail below. The control unit can include a memory for storing data such as the operating routines of the dishwasher 2.

[0171] As Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, the dishwasher 2 includes a sump 48 for typically collecting the washing liquid under the influence of gravity. The dishwasher 2 uses the washing liquid to clean, wash, and rinse articles. The sump 20 is arranged below the bottom 18 of the tub, and in particular the sump 48 is fluidly connected to the bottom 18 of the tub from below such that the washing liquid within the tub 8 can flow into the sump 48.

[0172] The dishwasher 2 may include a fresh water storage tank assembly 46 having a fluid connection to the main water pipe. A fresh water inlet valve (not shown) may be provided upstream of the fresh water storage tank assembly 46 to enable or prevent the inflow of fresh water into the dishwasher 2. As Figure 3 shown, a flow meter 58 may be provided upstream of the fresh water storage tank assembly 46 for providing a feedback signal to the control unit indicating the amount of fresh water supplied. The fresh water storage tank assembly 46 may include a tank for storing fresh water. The fresh water storage tank assembly 46 may further include a ventilation connection 46a leading to the tub 8 for balancing the pressure between the fresh water storage tank assembly 46 and the tub 8, and / or if the water storage tank overflows, the overflowing wash liquid is directed into the tub interior through the connection 46a.

[0173] In the case where the dishwasher includes a softening component 52 (as shown in the figures herein), the outlet 54a of the storage tank assembly 46 is connected to the salt container of the softening component 46, and another outlet 54b of the storage tank assembly 46 is connected to the resin container 54b of the softening component 46. The fresh water flowing out of the storage 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 the inflow of water into the salt container. The softening component 52 is preferably at least partially arranged below the storage tank assembly 46. A storage tank valve (not shown) may be provided downstream of the water storage tank assembly 46 and upstream of the softening component 52 to enable or prevent the outflow of water from the water storage tank assembly 46.

[0174] 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 storage tank assembly 46. Alternatively, the storage tank assembly 46 may be filled with fresh water that may be supplied to the sump 48 in a subsequent stage of the wash cycle or in a subsequent wash cycle.

[0175] The dishwasher 2 may include a discharge circuit 59 for discharging the wash liquid in the sump 48 out of the dishwasher 2 via a discharge pump 60. The discharge circuit 59 may include first, second, and third discharge path segments 62a-c. The first discharge path segment 62a includes an inlet at the sump 48, and the outlet of the first discharge path segment 62a is connected to the inlet of the second discharge path segment 62b preferably arranged at the sidewall of the tub 8. The outlet of the second discharge path segment 62b is connected to the inlet of the third discharge path segment 62c that directs the wash liquid out of the dishwasher 2.

[0176] The second discharge path section 62b may include a siphon or an air gap to prevent dirty water from flowing back into the dishwasher 2. In particular, the second discharge path section 62b may extend from the bottom to the top and from the top to the bottom to form a siphon. Thus, when the discharge pump 60 for discharging the washing liquid stops, the residual dirty washing liquid in the second discharge path section 62b flows out of the discharge path 62b due to gravity. When there is a blockage or obstruction downstream of the air gap / siphon in the discharge circuit 59, no dirty water can flow back into the dishwasher 2 from the outside of the dishwasher 2 via the second discharge path section 62b due to the siphon / air gap.

[0177] 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 ). Thus, 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 herein. Figure 7 The indicated refrigerant flow direction 31 corresponds to the "normal" refrigerant flow direction (i.e., when the heat pump is operating in the normal operating mode). When the heat pump is operating in the reverse mode, the refrigerant flow direction 31 is reversed. Different operating modes of the heat pump are further described below.

[0178] Washing liquid cooling path

[0179] 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 (described in detail with respect to Figures 8 to 12 ). 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 into the tub 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 operating in the reverse mode, the washing liquid is preferably circulated along the washing liquid cooling path through the fourth outlet 76 and / or the fifth outlet 78 to cool the washing liquid and / or the tub 8 (preferably bypassing any spray devices simultaneously).

[0180] Further, instead of or in addition to heating the washing liquid by means of the condenser, a heater (not shown) for heating the washing liquid can also be provided. The heater is preferably arranged in or integrated into the housing of the circulation pump 50.

[0181] Heat pump system

[0182] 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 or first passage 82 for guiding the washing liquid and an internal or second passage 84 for guiding the refrigerant, where the first passage 82 and the second passage 84 are in thermal 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.

[0183] The compressor 92 is used to increase the pressure of the refrigerant and to circulate the refrigerant within the refrigerant circulation circuit 83. The refrigerant circulates in the refrigerant circulation circuit 83 through the second passage 84 of the condenser 44, the compressor 92, and the evaporator 90 (not necessarily in this order).

[0184] Condenser

[0185] The condenser 44 is preferably arranged at the side wall 10 of the tub 8. Preferably, the condenser 44 is arranged between the side wall 10 of the tub 8 and the cabinet of the dishwasher 2. When considering the normal operating position of the dishwasher 2, the condenser 44 can be arranged at the right side wall of the dishwasher 2, as Figure 2 shown.

[0186] The condenser 44 can 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 can be arranged at the bottom of the condenser 44, respectively.

[0187] As Figure 5 and Figure 7 shown, the condenser 44 can include a first section 80a, a second section 80b arranged 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 vertex of the arc is the highest vertical point of the condenser 44. The arc can have an angle of 180° or substantially 180°.

[0188] As Figure 7As 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 bifurcating member, with a bifurcating member provided at each of the inlet region and the end region within the first passage 82. Thus, the heat exchange capacity is doubled.

[0189] 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, a gap between the first passage 82 and the second passage 84 is ensured, allowing liquid to pass between the inner surface of the first passage and the outer surface of the received second passage.

[0190] 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 divided vertically or substantially vertically into a first half and a second half. When the two halves are installed with the second passage 84 already arranged in one of the two halves, the first half and the second half form an outer tube 82 for guiding the washing liquid around the inner tube 84, while the inner tube is provided for guiding the refrigerant.

[0191] 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 heat exchange, the control unit is adapted to stop the circulation pump 50 so 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.

[0192] The inlet 82a of the first passage 82 of the condenser 44 (see Figure 7 ) is connected to the outlet of the circulation pump 50 via a first fluid flow path 68a. A second fluid flow path 68b connects the outlet 82b of the first passage 82 to the inlet 66 of the flow controller 64.

[0193] Refrigerant circulation circuit

[0194] As Figure 7As shown, the refrigerant 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 a 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. 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.

[0195] An expansion device 88 (such as a capillary valve or an expansion valve) can be provided within 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.

[0196] As Figure 5 indicated, at least one of the following components of the refrigerant 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 positioned vertically, particularly perpendicular to the rotational axis of the compressor 92.

[0197] 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 direction of refrigerant flow within the refrigerant circuit 83. The direction of refrigerant flow within the condenser 44 and the direction of flow of the washing liquid can be opposite to each other to improve heat exchange.

[0198] Evaporator

[0199] As Figure 7 schematically shown, the evaporator 90 is preferably arranged in an evaporator tank 94. The evaporator tank 94 is preferably arranged in the base 6 of the dishwasher, i.e., below the basin 8 (see Figure 5)。The evaporator reservoir 94 can be sealed by a seal or any other sealing mechanism extending along the edge of the opening of the evaporator reservoir 94 and is preferably closed by an evaporator reservoir cover. The evaporator reservoir cover can have a convenient form for sealing the evaporator reservoir 94.

[0200] The evaporator reservoir 94 is preferably a closed reservoir for permanently storing the heat exchange medium. Preferably, the evaporator 90 is disposed or received inside the evaporator reservoir 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 conduits 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) (which is the "normal" operating mode of the heat pump) or to cool the refrigerant in the cycle (and heat the heat exchange medium) (which is the "reverse" operating mode of the heat pump). The heated refrigerant can be used to heat the washing liquid in the cycle by heat exchange in the condenser.

[0201] Different operating modes

[0202] In the heating mode (the "normal" operating mode of the heat pump system), within the refrigerant circulation 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 disposed within the refrigerant circulation circuit 83 creates a vacuum applied to the evaporator 90. The heat exchange medium in the evaporator reservoir 94 is in thermal exchange contact with the evaporator 90. The medium is cooled and eventually 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 in the gaseous 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 washing liquid preferably flow in opposite directions to improve heat exchange. In the condenser, the washing liquid is heated by transferring heat from the refrigerant to the washing liquid. From the refrigerant inlet 84a to the refrigerant condenser outlet 84, i.e., within the second passage 84, the refrigerant is cooled. The washing liquid is heated in the first passage 82 from the condenser inlet 82a to the washing liquid condenser outlet 82b.

[0203] The heated washing liquid leaves the condenser 44 through the washing liquid condenser outlet 82b, and the washing liquid can be guided through any of the outlets in the outlet of the flow controller as described above.

[0204] In the cooling mode for defrosting the evaporator 90 during a wash cycle and / or if the tub is to be cooled during the drying phase of a wash 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 wash 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 within the evaporator reservoir 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.

[0205] The cooled wash 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 wash 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.

[0206] 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.

[0207] 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 from the compressor outlet is directed by the switching valve 86 to the condenser 44. The refrigerant from the evaporator 90 is drawn into the compressor inlet through the switching valve 86.

[0208] 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 drawn into the compressor 92 through the switching valve 86 in its second switching state.

[0209] 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 fluid 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 basin in use. These outlets are typically used to enable 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.

[0210] 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 circulation of the wash fluid in the sump 48 by operation of the circulation pump 50.

[0211] 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. 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. 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. 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 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 basin 8 via the first outlet 70, the second outlet 72, and / or the third outlet 74.

[0212] 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 Figure 12 herein.

[0213] Sump nozzle / tub nozzle

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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.

[0216] When the heat pump operates 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.

[0217] 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 substantially does not affect the air temperature inside the basin 8. That is, when the heat pump operates 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.

[0218] Preferably, during the drying phase of the washing cycle, the washing liquid is guided along the second cooling branch 43b, where the cooled washing liquid cools the basin 8 and / or the air inside the basin, causing the moisture in the air to condense, 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 (so that the articles are not cooled by the washing liquid).

[0219] 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 inlets 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 fluidly connecting 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.

[0220] The cover element 42 has a portion formed as a filter that is adapted to filter the washing liquid as it flows from the interior of the basin 8 through the filter to the sump 48.

[0221] As Figure 8 shown, the cover element 42 may include a hub 96 that 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).

[0222] 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.

[0223] 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.

[0224] 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 profile 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.

[0225] 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 one piece with the cover element 42, and / or the second part 102b is formed as one piece with the sump 48.

[0226] 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.

[0227] 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.

[0228] 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 profile 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.

[0229] Flow controller

[0230] 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.

[0231] The disk 112 may include a plurality of orifices 113, which 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 the 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.

[0232] When the disk 112 is positioned within the disk portion 110 of the sump 48, the housing 118 of the flow controller 64 is preferably assembled around or wraps around 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, rather than 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.

[0233] Different flow rates

[0234] 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 to the interior of the basin 8 at a reduced flow rate through the lower spray device 30a (see: Figure 14 , where the arrows indicate the flow of the washing liquid)

[0235] In the case of the lower spray device 30a, the normal flow rate through the lower spray device 30a is preferably the flow rate at which the articles above the lower spray 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 spray device.

[0236] 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 the water cannot contact the articles.

[0237] 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, while 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 spray device 30a, the washing liquid is conveyed to the first region 124 and the second region 126.

[0238] 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 that is at least 1.5 times, 1.7 times, 1.9 times, 2.0 times, 2.2 times or 2.5 times the spray length when the reduced flow rate is applied.

[0239] 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 washing 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.

[0240] The reduced flow rate through the tub nozzle 100 is preferably applied during the washing phase and / or cold rinse and / or 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.

[0241] The reduced flow rate through the lower spray device 30a is preferably applied during the washing phase and / or cold rinse and / or hot rinse and / or during the drying phase of the wash cycle.

[0242] Different heat pump and washing liquid flow path arrangements

[0243] In the following Figures 15 to 21 the reverse refrigerant flow direction for cooling the washing liquid is indicated by the white thick arrow, while the normal refrigerant flow direction for heating the washing liquid is indicated by the black thick arrow.

[0244] Figure 15 In which Figures 1 to 14 the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement of the dishwasher 2 shown, i.e., the refrigerant circuit 83 and the washing liquid cooling path 43, are schematically shown.

[0245] 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 washing 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 intermediate spray device 28a.

[0246] 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.

[0247] In the following Figures 16 to 21 is shown a heat pump and a washing liquid flow path arrangement different from that Figures 1 to 14 shown and illustrated by the schematic diagram in Figure 15 . Only the differences between the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement of Figures 16 to 21 and the heat pump and the washing liquid flow path arrangement of Figure 15 are described. All other features described for the dishwasher 2 of Figures 1 to 15 also apply to the arrangement shown in Figures 16 to 21 .

[0248] 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 of 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 of Figure 15 and has the same connections.

[0249] 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 fouling of the condenser can be reduced because the washing liquid is not always guided through the condenser 44.

[0250] 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 bifurcates 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 bifurcation 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, each separately connected to a circulation pump that is in turn connected to the sump.

[0251] Figure 17 Another washing liquid flow path arrangement is shown, which is different from that Figure 15The 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 tray 112 is rotated to a position blocking the outlets 70, 72, 74.

[0252] 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 of, 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.

[0253] 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.

[0254] In Figure 19 the washing liquid flow path arrangement shown, the flow controller 64 is arranged upstream of the condenser 44 (whereas in Figure 15In the case where the flow controller is downstream of the condenser 44), the outlet at the sump 48 is connected via a circulation pump 50 to the inlet of the flow controller 64. The flow controller 64 may include one or more outlets 70, 72, 74 connected to respective spraying devices. The flow controller 64 may include a further 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 branches into a first cooling branch 43a and a second cooling branch 43b.

[0255] 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 case where the flow controller is downstream of the condenser 44), the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path 43 at the sump 48 is connected via a circulation pump 50 to the inlet of the flow controller 64. The flow controller 64 may include one or more outlets 70, 72, 74 connected to 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 directed through the outlet 76, the washing liquid is only directed through the condenser (and can thus be cooled in the reverse mode of the heat pump).

[0256] 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 a first cooling branch 43a and / or a 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 flow controller outlet 78, in particular 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 back to the sump 48 from there. The washing liquid released from the nozzle 100 is directed to the side wall (here as an example the inner basin rear wall) and guided along this side wall, such that the washing liquid does not contact the articles stored in the basin.

[0257] 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.

[0258] Regeneration during the washing cycle depending on different heating strategies

[0259] Figure 22 A washing cycle with the following phases is shown: a washing phase WP, an optional cold rinse phase CR, a hot rinse phase HR (where a washing liquid with a rinse aid is particularly used), and a drying phase DP for drying the items in the dishwasher 2.

[0260] The washing phase WP includes a first heating period H1, and the hot rinse phase includes a second heating period H2, where 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.

[0261] 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 corresponding phase or (if applicable) at the end of the corresponding regeneration period, before the washing liquid is discharged, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode.

[0262] 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.

[0263] 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.

[0264] 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 sump 48 through the flow controller outlet A 76 back to the sump 48.

[0265] 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.

[0266] Below, an example of a combination of the regeneration periods R1 to R3 related to different heating strategies in the first heating period H1 and the second heating period H2 is shown:

[0267]

[0268] For example, if in the first heating period H1 and / or the second heating period H2, the washing liquid is heated only by operating the electric heater, then 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.

[0269] Drying phase of the washing cycle

[0270] 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 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 ) through the flow controller outlet B 78 into the interior of the basin 8 to cool the basin 8, and from there back to the sump 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 contacting the cooled interior of the basin, and the drying of the washed articles is improved.

[0271] Air circulation during the first drying period D1

[0272] If the dishwasher includes an internal air circulation path 20, then preferably during the drying phase, the air inside the basin is circulated along the internal air circulation path 20 by starting the blower 20c (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 tub 8), more preferably after the completion of the circulation of the washing liquid through the sump during 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 tub 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 are operated at least partially simultaneously. The air at the bottom can be cooled by the circulation of the washing liquid through the tub, and the cooled air can be circulated through the internal air circulation path 20 to the top region of the tub. 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 tub. Thus, the internal air circulation assists in the cooling of the air inside the tub and thus in the drying of the articles.

[0273] Door opening after the drying phase

[0274] 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 tub is opened. Thus, the remaining warm air can flow out of the interior of the tub, and thus the interior of the tub is cooled. Thereby, the removal of moisture from the articles in the tub is further improved. The opening of the tub 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 tub can include any flow connection from the interior of the tub to the surrounding environment such that the warm air inside the tub can flow out of the dishwasher. Preferably, the opening of the door or the discharge of air to the surrounding environment is provided after a previous condensation phase such as R3 and / or D1 and / or D2.

[0275] Drying phase without an internal air circulation path

[0276] Figure 24 Another drying phase DP is shown. This configuration is preferably applied when the dishwasher does not include the 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 Figure 23 first drying period D1 as described above, except that no air circulates inside the tub. Thereby, by circulating the cooled washing liquid, the air inside and within the tub is cooled, and thus the moisture in the air condenses when contacting the cooled interior of the tub, and the drying of the washed articles is improved.

[0277] 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 the third drying period D3 of Figure 23 being 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 24 the third drying period D3 of

[0278] Figure 23 and Figure 24 the regeneration period R3 during the drying phase of

[0279] Figure 23 and Figure 24 also apply to the third drying period D3 of Figure 24 . For example, the door 18 of the dishwasher is opened during the third drying period D3. Thus, the warm air that has cooled and has lost most of its moisture can flow out of the tub interior, and thus the tub interior is further cooled and the remaining moisture is reduced. Thereby, the condensation of moisture in the tub is improved. Figure 23 . 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. Thus, 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 in Figure 24 the case of the drying period D2) to cool the tub 8. Thereby, due to the temperature difference between the tub interior and the cooled liquid circulated through the tub, the condensation of moisture in the tub is more efficient.

[0280] Different flow rates during the regeneration period R3 and the subsequent drying period

[0281] 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 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 and / or the tub 8 inside the tub 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 the moisture in the tub is more efficient.

[0282] 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 the moisture is improved without the articles being wetted by the circulating liquid.

[0283] In the following, examples of combinations of the regeneration period R3 and the drying periods D1 to D3 of dishwashers with and without internal air circulation are shown:

[0284]

[0285] 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.

[0286] List of reference numerals

[0287] 2 Dishwasher

[0288] 4 Control panel

[0289] 6 Base

[0290] 8 Tub

[0291] 10 Side wall (tub)

[0292] 14 Top wall (tub)

[0293] 16 Tub bottom

[0294] 18 Door

[0295] 20 Internal air circulation path

[0296] 20a Inlet

[0297] 20b Outlet

[0298] 20c Blower

[0299] 22 Wash Liquid Conduit System

[0300] 24 Delivery Conduit

[0301] 26 Connector to Top Spraying Device

[0302] 26a Top Spraying Device / Top Spraying Arm

[0303] 28 Connector to Middle Spraying Arm

[0304] 28a Middle Spraying Device / Middle Spraying Arm

[0305] 30 Connector to Lower Spraying Arm

[0306] 30a Lower Spraying Device / Lower Spraying Arm

[0307] 31 Refrigerant Flow Direction

[0308] 32 Wash Liquid Flow Direction

[0309] 40 Filter Assembly

[0310] 42 Cover Element

[0311] 43 Wash Liquid Cooling Path

[0312] 43a, 43b First Cooling Branch / Second Cooling Branch

[0313] 44 Condenser

[0314] 46 Fresh Water Storage Tank Assembly

[0315] 46a Connector to Basin

[0316] 48 Liquid Collection Tank

[0317] 50, 50a, 50b (First / Second) Circulation Pump

[0318] 52 Softener Assembly

[0319] 54a Outlet to Salt Container

[0320] 54b Outlet to Resin Container

[0321] 56 Flow Connector to Liquid Collection Tank

[0322] 58 Flowmeter

[0323] 59 Discharge Circuit

[0324] 60 Discharge Pump

[0325] 62a-c First / Second / Third discharge path section

[0326] 64 Flow manifold / Flow controller

[0327] 66 Inlet of the flow controller

[0328] 68a, 68b First / Second fluid flow path

[0329] 70 First washing fluid outlet

[0330] 72 Second washing fluid outlet

[0331] 74 Third washing fluid outlet

[0332] 76 Fourth washing fluid outlet / Additional outlet A

[0333] 78 Fifth washing fluid outlet / Additional outlet B

[0334] 79 Discharge outlet

[0335] 80a-c First section, Second section, Third section of the condenser

[0336] 81 Spacer element

[0337] 82 First passage (for washing liquid, e.g., outer tube of the condenser)

[0338] 82a Inlet of the first passage

[0339] 82b Outlet of the first passage

[0340] 83 Refrigerant circulation loop

[0341] 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

[0342] 84 Second passage (for refrigerant, e.g., inner tube of the condenser)

[0343] 84a Inlet (outlet) of the second passage

[0344] 84b Outlet (inlet) of the second passage

[0345] 86 Refrigerant flow changing device / Switching valve

[0346] 86a, 86b First / Second inlet of the refrigerant flow changing device

[0347] 87a, 87b First / Second outlet of the refrigerant flow changing device

[0348] 88 Expansion device

[0349] 90 Evaporator

[0350] 90a Evaporator inlet

[0351] 90b Evaporator outlet

[0352] 92 Compressor

[0353] 92a, 92b Inlet / outlet of the compressor

[0354] 94 Evaporator sump

[0355] 96 Hub for the lower spray device

[0356] 98 Sump nozzle

[0357] 100 Basin nozzle

[0358] 102 Flow channel

[0359] 102a First part

[0360] 102b Second part

[0361] 104 Sump attachment

[0362] 106 Fixed element orifice

[0363] 110 Disk part

[0364] 112 Disk

[0365] 113 Orifice of the disk

[0366] 114 Cam disk

[0367] 116 Motor

[0368] 118 Housing of the flow controller

[0369] 120 Spray jet with reduced flow rate

[0370] 122 Spray jet with higher flow rate

[0371] 124 First area of the basin bottom

[0372] 126 Second area of the basin bottom

[0373] 128 Recirculation flow path

[0374] 130 Control element

[0375] C Washing fluid flow

[0376] H1, H2 First / Second Heating Periods

[0377] R1 to R3 First / Second / Third Regeneration Periods

[0378] D1 First Drying Period with Internal Air Circulation

[0379] D2 Second Drying Period without Air Circulation and with Door Closed

[0380] D3 Third Drying Period with Door Open

[0381] WP Washing Phase

[0382] CR Cold Rinsing Phase

[0383] HR Hot Rinsing Phase

[0384] DP Drying Phase

Claims

1. A dishwasher (2), comprising: A cabinet that houses a basin (8) for washing articles therein; A spraying device (26a, 28a, 30a) disposed inside the basin (8) and configured to spray washing liquid onto the articles in the basin (8), A heat pump system having a compressor (92), an evaporator (90), a condenser (44), an expansion device (88), and a refrigerant flow change device (86), the refrigerant flow change device being adapted to change between a normal mode of the heat pump and a reverse mode of the heat pump, Wherein the condenser (44) includes a first passage (82) and a second passage (84) in thermal exchange contact with each other, A heat exchange medium in thermal exchange contact with the evaporator (90), 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 (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, A liquid collection tank (48) for collecting washing liquid, A control unit adapted to control the operation of the dishwasher (2) during a washing cycle, and A washing liquid cooling path (43) including: an inlet provided at the liquid collection tank (48), circulation pumps (50, 50b), the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) for cooling the washing liquid in the reverse mode of the heat pump, and at least one outlet (98, 100) for supplying the cooled washing liquid back to the liquid collection tank (48), wherein the washing liquid cooling path (43) bypasses the spraying device (26a, 28a, 30a).

2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The washing liquid cooling path (43) includes: A first cooling branch (43a) that connects the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) to an outlet (98) at or inside the liquid collection tank (48), and / or A second cooling branch (43b) that connects the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) to an outlet (100) inside the interior of the basin (8) for cooling the interior of the basin (8), wherein the washing liquid guided along the second cooling branch (43b) returns to the liquid collection tank (48) via the basin (8), Wherein the dishwasher (2) further includes a hydraulic circulation arrangement having at least one controllable component, and wherein, through the control of the control unit, the at least one controllable component is adapted to circulate the washing liquid pumped from the liquid collection tank (4) along the first cooling branch (43a) and / or the second cooling branch (43b).

3. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein, The first passage (82) of the condenser (44) is arranged upstream of a flow controller (64) or a flow manifold.

4. The dishwasher according to claim 3, Among them, The flow controller (64) or the flow manifold at least includes an outlet A (76) and / or an outlet B (78), wherein, the first cooling branch (43a) includes the outlet A (76) that connects the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) to an outlet (98) at or inside the sump (48), and / or wherein, the second cooling branch (43b) includes the outlet B (78) that connects the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) to an outlet (100) inside the basin (8).

5. The dishwasher according to claim 3, Among them, the flow controller (64) or the flow manifold includes at least one outlet (70, 72, 74) connected to the spraying devices (26a, 28a, 30a), and wherein, the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch (43a, 43b) branches off downstream of the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) and upstream of the flow controller (64) or the flow manifold.

6. The dishwasher according to claim 2, Among them, the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) is arranged downstream of the flow controller (64) or the flow manifold, and wherein, the flow controller (64) or the flow manifold includes at least one outlet connected to the inlet of the first passage (82) of the condenser (44), wherein preferably, the flow path downstream of the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) branches off into the first cooling branch (43a) connected to an outlet (98) at or inside the sump (48) and the second cooling branch (43b) connected to an outlet (100) inside the basin (8).

7. The dishwasher according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The dishwasher (2) includes: a first circulation pump (50a) and a second circulation pump (50b), and a circulation flow path (128), the circulation flow path including: an inlet provided at the sump (48), and a flow controller (64) or a flow manifold, the flow controller or the flow manifold including at least one outlet (70, 72, 74), the at least one outlet being connected to the spraying devices (26a, 28a, 30a) for spraying the washing liquid into the interior of the basin (8) and for supplying the washing liquid back to the sump (48), wherein, the first circulation pump (50a) is configured to circulate the washing liquid along the circulation flow path (128), and wherein, the second circulation pump (50b) is configured to circulate the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path (43), in particular along the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch (43a, 43b).

8. The dishwasher according to claim 1, further comprising: a circulation flow path (128), the circulation flow path having an inlet provided at the sump (48), and a flow controller (64) or a flow manifold, the flow controller or the flow manifold at least including an outlet A (76) and / or an outlet B (78), wherein, the outlet A (76) is connected to an outlet (98) at or inside the sump (48), and / or Wherein, the outlet B (78) is connected to an outlet (100) inside the interior of the tub (8).

9. The dishwasher according to claim 8, Among them, The washing liquid cooling path (43) includes a controllable component (130), which is a control valve arranged upstream of the first passage (82) of the condenser (44), and Wherein, the control unit is adapted to control the control valve (130) such that the washing liquid from the sump (48) is guided along the washing liquid cooling path (43) and / or along the circulation flow path (128).

10. The dishwasher according to claim 1, further comprising A flow controller (64) or a flow manifold, which at least has an outlet A (76) and an outlet B (78) and is arranged upstream of the first passage (82) of the condenser (44), and A circulating flow path (128), the circulating flow path comprising: An inlet provided at the sump (48) and an outlet (100) inside the interior of the tub (8), Wherein, the inlet (66) of the flow controller (64) or the flow manifold is connected to the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path (43) at the sump (48), Wherein, the washing liquid cooling path (43) includes the outlet A (76) connected to the inlet of the first passage (82) of the condenser (44), and Wherein, the circulation flow path (128) includes the outlet B (78) that bypasses the condenser (44) and is connected to the outlet (100) inside the interior of the tub (8).

11. The dishwasher according to any one of the preceding claims, Among them, The dishwasher (2) includes one or the flow controller (64) or the flow manifold, which has one or more outlets (70, 72, 74) connected to one or more spray arms of the spray device (26a, 28a, 30a), and Wherein, the control unit is adapted to control the flow controller (64) or the flow manifold such that the washing liquid circulating through the flow controller (64) or the flow manifold is guided to one or more spray arms of the spray device (26a, 28a, 30a) for spraying the washing liquid onto the articles in the tub (8).

12. The dishwasher according to claim 11, wherein, The control unit is adapted to control the flow controller (64) or the flow manifold such that during the circulation of the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path (43), the one or more outlets (70, 72, 74) connected to the one or more spray arms (26a, 28a, 30a) are closed so that no washing liquid passes through the one or more outlets (70, 72, 74).

13. The dishwasher according to any one of claims 2 to 12, Among them, The outlet at or inside the sump is a sump nozzle (98) at the sump (48) arranged below the bottom (16) of the tub (8) or an outlet in the bottom wall or side wall of the sump (48), and / or Wherein, the outlet inside the tub is a tub nozzle (100), and the tub nozzle is arranged Inside the tub volume at the bottom (16) of the tub (8), or At the side wall (10) of the basin (8) such that water flows along the side wall (10) of the basin (8), or At a fluid path section arranged within the basin (8) for supplying washing liquid to the spraying device (26a, 28a, 30a), preferably to the top spraying device (26a).

14. A dishwasher according to any one of the preceding claims, Among them, The condenser (44) is a tube-in-tube condenser, which includes 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), Wherein, the inner tube (84) has a smaller cross-section arranged within the outer tube (82) having a larger cross-section, 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.

15. A method for operating a dishwasher, The dishwasher (2) includes: A cabinet that houses a basin (8) for washing articles therein; A spraying device (26a, 28a, 30a) arranged inside the basin (8) and configured to spray washing liquid onto the articles in the basin (8), A heat pump system having a compressor (92), an evaporator (90), a condenser (44), an expansion device (88), and a refrigerant flow changing device (86), the refrigerant flow changing device being adapted to change between a normal mode and a reverse mode of the heat pump, Wherein, the condenser (44) includes a first passage (82) and a second passage (84) in thermal exchange contact with each other, A heat exchange medium in thermal exchange contact with the evaporator (90), 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 (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, A liquid collection tank (48) for collecting washing liquid, Wherein, operating the dishwasher (2) includes: Operating the heat pump in the reverse mode and circulating the washing liquid along a washing liquid cooling path (43), the washing liquid cooling path forming a closed loop with the liquid collection tank (48) and the first passage (82) of the condenser (44) for cooling the washing liquid and recycling the cooled washing liquid back to the liquid collection tank (48), wherein, during the circulation of the washing liquid, the spraying device (26a, 28a, 30a) is bypassed.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The washing liquid cooling path (43) includes a first cooling branch (43a) and / or a second cooling branch (43b), and Wherein, operating the dishwasher (2) includes: In a first heat exchange mode a) of the washing cycle: operate the heat pump in the reverse mode and circulate the washing liquid along the first cooling branch (43a) from the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path (43) at the sump (48) back to the outlet (98) at or within the sump (48), and / or In a second heat exchange mode b) of the washing cycle: operate the heat pump in the reverse mode and convey the washing liquid along the second cooling branch (43b) from the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path (43) at the sump (48) into the interior of the tub (8) to cool the interior of the tub (8), and from there back into the sump (48) via the tub (8).

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The dishwasher further comprises a circulation flow path (128) having one or the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path (43) at the sump (48) and an outlet (100) at the interior of the tub (8), wherein operating the dishwasher (2) comprises: In a first heat exchange mode a) of the washing cycle: operate the heat pump in the reverse mode and circulate the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path (43) from the inlet at the sump (48) back to the outlet (98) at or within the sump (48), and / or In a second heat exchange mode b) of the washing cycle: operate the heat pump in the reverse mode and convey the washing liquid along the circulation flow path (128) from the inlet at the sump (48) into the interior of the tub (8) to cool the interior of the tub (8), and from there back into the sump (48) via the tub (8).

18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, Among them, Execute the first heat exchange mode a) at the end of the washing phase and / or at the end of the cold rinse phase and / or at the end of the hot rinse phase and / or at least partially during the drying phase of the washing cycle, and / or wherein the first heat exchange mode a) is executed before discharging at the end of the washing phase and / or the cold rinse phase.

19. The method according to claim 16, 17 or 18, wherein Execute the second heat exchange mode b) during the drying phase of the washing cycle.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein Execute the first heat exchange mode a) at the start of the drying phase, and wherein the second heat exchange mode b) is executed after or at least partially simultaneously with the first heat exchange mode a) during the drying phase.

21. The method according to claim 19, wherein, Execute the second heat exchange mode b) after a predetermined period of time has elapsed at the start of the drying phase and / or after discharging the washing liquid in the final rinse phase.

Images