Dishwasher with heat pump

Abstract

The present invention provides a dishwasher comprising: a cabinet housing a tub (8) for washing items therein; a heat pump system having a compressor (92), an evaporator (90), a condenser (44), an expansion valve (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, the condenser (44) comprises a first passage (82) for circulating a washing liquid and a second passage (84) for circulating a refrigerant, the first and second passages (82, 84) being 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 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 cool the washing liquid and the evaporator (90) is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium. 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; a cover element (42) arranged at the bottom (16) of the basin (8), above the sump (48); a basin nozzle (100) adapted to supply washing liquid into the interior of the basin (8) and / or a sump nozzle (98) adapted to supply washing liquid into the sump, where the basin nozzle (100) and / or the sump nozzle (98) is at least partially integrated in the cover element (42), and where the basin nozzle (100) and / or the sump nozzle (98) are at least partially integrated in the cover element (42). The control unit is adapted to operate the heat pump in a reverse mode and simultaneously activate the circulation pump (50, 50b) at least temporarily such that cooled washing liquid from the sump (48) is directed through the tub nozzle (100) into the interior of the tub (8) and / or through the sump nozzle (98) into the sump (48).

Description

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

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

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

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

[0005] According to claim 1, there is provided a dishwasher. The dishwasher includes: a cabinet that houses a tub for washing articles therein; a heat pump system having a compressor, an evaporator, a condenser, an expansion valve, 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 for circulating washing liquid and a second passage for circulating refrigerant, wherein the first passage and the second passage 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 and the evaporator is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium, and wherein, in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser is adapted to cool the washing liquid and the evaporator is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium; a sump for collecting washing liquid; a control unit that is adapted to control the operation of the dishwasher during a washing cycle; a cover element disposed at the bottom of the tub, above the sump; and a tub nozzle adapted to supply washing liquid into the interior of the tub and / or a sump nozzle adapted to supply washing liquid into the sump, wherein the tub nozzle and / or the sump nozzle are at least partially integrated in the cover element, and wherein the control unit is adapted to operate the heat pump in the reverse mode and at least temporarily start the circulation pump simultaneously, such that the cooled washing liquid from the sump is directed through the tub nozzle into the interior of the tub and / or through the sump nozzle into the sump.

[0006] The "reverse mode" can be used for the regeneration of the heat exchange medium and / or for drying articles. In particular, the "reverse mode" may refer to operating the heat pump in a regeneration mode such that the refrigerant is heated at the condenser that operates as an evaporator in the reverse mode, and the refrigerant is cooled at the evaporator that operates as a condenser in the reverse mode (i.e., the heat exchange medium 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.

[0007] 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 remaining heat in the tub / structure of the dishwasher can be extracted and used for the regeneration of the heat exchange medium.

[0008] Furthermore, when the washing liquid is circulated through the tub, in the reverse mode, the drying of the articles 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 articles is improved.

[0009] 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 the drying by cooling the tub (inside).

[0010] 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 the electrical heating of the washing liquid by an electrical 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 the purposes of drying as described herein).

[0011] The heat exchange medium is preferably a liquid. Preferably a liquid having a liquid / solid transition phase at a certain temperature such that a liquid / solid transition can be achieved in the evaporator and at the temperature of the refrigerant in the normal operating mode, and such that a solid / liquid transition can be achieved in the evaporator and at the temperature of the refrigerant in the reverse operating mode. Thereby, heat can be extracted or deposited in the heat exchange medium corresponding to the latent heat of the medium. The heat exchange medium can be water or water mixed with salts that increase the latent heat and / or change the transition temperature, or paraffin.

[0012] The tub is preferably made of metal (such as steel), and / or the sump is preferably made of plastic. When the washing liquid is circulated through the sump, the washing liquid preferably does not contact the tub, and thus the tub is not or is substantially not cooled by the washing liquid. When the washing liquid is circulated through the tub, the washing liquid preferably contacts the inner wall of the tub and thus cools the tub.

[0013] The "interior" of the basin is preferably the area above the sump, more preferably the area above a filter (or any filter) at the bottom of the basin. The filter and the surrounding bottom wall of the basin preferably represent the bottom of the basin and thus the lower surface of the "interior" of the basin.

[0014] Preferably, the washing liquid circulates in the first passage of the condenser and the refrigerant circulates in the second passage of the condenser.

[0015] The dishwasher may include a filtration assembly (such as the lid element further mentioned below) arranged at the sump. The filtration assembly may act as a filter for the washing liquid returning to the sump (for example, after the washing fluid has been deployed in the basin via the spraying device).

[0016] The lid element is preferably adapted to cover at least a part of the sump. Preferably, at least a part of the lid element is arranged above and / or covers the flow manifold or the flow controller. The flow manifold or the flow controller may be arranged at the sump, preferably integrated in the sump. The lid element may include a plurality of outlets, each of which is aligned with an outlet of the flow manifold or the flow controller. Thus, the washing liquid supplied through any outlet of the flow manifold or the flow controller is guided through the outlets of the lid element.

[0017] Preferably, the lid element has a part formed as a filter, which is adapted to filter the washing liquid flowing from the interior of the basin to the sump.

[0018] The lid element and the sump nozzle and / or the basin nozzle may be formed as a single piece, preferably made of plastic material.

[0019] The sump, in particular the flow controller or manifold fluidly connected to and / or integrated in the sump, may include a plurality of washing fluid outlets, which are connected to a washing liquid conduit system having one or more spraying devices. In particular, each spraying device (spray arm) includes one outlet among the plurality of washing fluid outlets, and includes outlet A and / or outlet B.

[0020] The sump includes at least one or the outlet A and / or one or the outlet B, wherein the outlet A is fluidly connected to the sump nozzle via a flow channel, and / or the outlet B is fluidly connected to the basin nozzle. The outlet A may extend vertically or substantially vertically from the sump, and the side wall of the outlet A includes an orifice fluidly connecting the outlet A to the flow channel.

[0021] Preferably, the cover element extends above these washing fluid outlets, and the cover element includes sump attachments, each sump attachment being sized and shaped to fit over a respective washing liquid outlet of the sump to connect each of the plurality of washing fluid outlets to a respective spray device (spray arm) and / or to a sump nozzle and / or a tub nozzle. In particular, the sump attachments extend from the lower surface of the cover element facing the washing fluid outlets.

[0022] Preferably, the cover element includes a hub extending from the upper side of the cover element, wherein the hub is adapted to connect one of the plurality of outlets or a washing fluid outlet among the plurality of outlets to a spray device that is a lower spray arm. The hub is preferably integrally formed with the cover element.

[0023] Preferably, the sump nozzle and / or a flow channel connected to the sump nozzle is disposed at the lower surface of the cover element, and / or the tub nozzle is disposed at the top surface of the cover element.

[0024] The sump nozzle and / or the flow channel is preferably disposed 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.

[0025] The tub nozzle is preferably disposed inside the interior of the tub, i.e., the washing liquid exiting the tub nozzle is directed through the interior of the tub, particularly for cooling the interior of the tub. The tub nozzle is preferably adapted such that the washing liquid sprayed 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.

[0026] 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 on the sump, the first part and the second part form a flow channel for guiding the washing liquid from outlet A through the sump nozzle into the sump. Preferably, the first part is integrally formed with the cover element, and / or the second part is integrally formed with the sump.

[0027] The circulation pump is preferably a variable speed pump.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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 in an evaporator tank containing a heat exchange medium.

[0030] 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 can be enclosed by heat-insulating material.

[0031] 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 into the compressor and guided 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.

[0032] The washing cycle can 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 items in the tub. The drying phase preferably starts when the circulation of the washing liquid through the spraying device is stopped.

[0033] Washing liquid cooling path arrangement:

[0034] Preferably, the dishwasher includes a washing liquid cooling path having: an inlet provided at the sump, a circulation pump, a first passage of the condenser for cooling the washing liquid in the reverse mode of the heat pump, and a sump nozzle for supplying the cooled washing liquid to the sump and / or a tub nozzle for supplying the cooled washing liquid back to the sump via the tub, wherein in particular, the washing liquid cooling path bypasses the spraying device for spraying the washing liquid onto the items in the tub.

[0035] "Bypassing the spraying device" preferably means that when the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode and the washing liquid is guided along the washing liquid cooling path, then no washing liquid is guided to the spraying device or any spray arm of the spraying device. Thus, the items are not contacted by the washing liquid supplied via the spraying device and are not cooled by it. For example, a valve can be arranged to block the flow of the washing liquid to the spraying device, or the following flow controller can be controlled such that the washing fluid outlet connected to any spraying device can be closed.

[0036] The washing liquid cooling path may form a single flow path having an inlet and an outlet, or may include a number of branches (such as the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch as described below), each of which has its own outlet, such that the multiple sections of the washing liquid cooling path extend differently.

[0037] In the washing liquid cooling path, guiding the washing liquid from the first passage of the condenser to the sump via the sump nozzle may mean that the washing liquid is directly guided back to the sump, i.e., preferably not guided through the interior of the tub or having an open flow path within the interior of the tub.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, guiding the washing liquid from the first passage of the condenser via the tub nozzle may mean that the washing liquid is guided back to the sump via the tub. That is, the washing liquid cooling path is guided into the interior of the tub via the tub outlet, wherein the washing liquid cooling path includes 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.

[0039] The washing liquid preferably circulates along the washing liquid cooling path and, in particular, circulates through the sump nozzle and / or the tub nozzle such that the items loaded in the dishwasher are not contacted by the cooled washing liquid.

[0040] 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 a 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] Preferably, the first passage of the condenser is arranged upstream of the flow controller or flow manifold, and the flow controller or flow manifold preferably includes at least outlet A and / or outlet B, wherein the first cooling branch includes outlet A that connects the first passage of the condenser to an outlet at or within the sump, and / or wherein the second cooling branch includes outlet B that connects the first passage of the condenser to an outlet inside the interior of the basin. More preferably, the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch have a common flow path section upstream of the flow controller or flow manifold.

[0043] The flow controller or flow manifold may be a device for guiding the washing liquid along different flow paths.

[0044] The "flow manifold" may include a plurality of valves adapted to guide the washing liquid along different flow paths (such as the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch). The flow manifold may have a flow path for each spray arm (such as the lower spray arm, the middle spray arm, and the upper spray arm) of the spray device of the dishwasher. Preferably, a valve is arranged in each flow path upstream of the spray arm for opening and closing the flow of the washing liquid to each spray arm.

[0045] The "flow controller" may include a plurality of washing fluid outlets, such as outlet A and / or B and / or one or more outlets connected to one or more spray arms of a spray device for spraying the washing liquid onto the articles. The flow controller may include a dedicated outlet for each of the lower spray arm, the middle spray arm, and the upper spray arm. In the case of providing outlet A and B and the outlets for the lower spray arm, the middle spray arm, and the upper spray arm, the flow controller preferably includes a total of 5 outlets. In the case of only providing outlet A or B, the flow controller preferably includes a total of 4 outlets. These washing fluid outlets are preferably arranged at the bottom of the basin and more preferably integrated in the sump.

[0046] The flow controller may include a positioning device and a disk rotatably arranged relative to the plurality of washing fluid outlets, wherein the disk includes a plurality of orifices arranged to selectively close and open the plurality of washing fluid outlets of the sump and / or outlet A and / or B during rotation of the disk. When the positioning device aligns at least one of the plurality of orifices of the disk with at least one of the washing fluid outlets, washing liquid is allowed to pass from the flow controller along each aligned washing fluid outlet. For example, when the positioning device aligns at least one of the plurality of orifices of the disk with outlet A and / or B, washing fluid is allowed to pass from the flow controller along the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch, respectively. Similarly, when the positioning device aligns at least one of the plurality of orifices of the disk with at least one of the washing fluid outlets connected to the spraying device, the washing fluid is supplied from the flow controller to the basin through the washing fluid outlet via the corresponding spraying device.

[0047] The control unit is preferably adapted to control the flow controller or the flow manifold such that the washing liquid is directed along one or more of the washing fluid outlets.

[0048] In an alternative water flow arrangement, the first passage of the condenser is arranged upstream of the flow controller or the flow manifold, wherein the flow controller or the flow manifold includes at least one (washing fluid) outlet connected to the spraying device, and wherein the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch branches downstream of the first passage of the condenser and upstream of the flow controller or the flow manifold. In this case, the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch do not include the flow controller or the flow manifold.

[0049] Preferably, the flow controller or the flow manifold has a closed position in which no washing liquid can pass through any outlet of the flow controller or the flow manifold.

[0050] 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.

[0051] Alternatively, a first cooling branch and a second cooling branch are provided, and the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch branch from a common flow path downstream of the first passage of the condenser and upstream of the flow controller or the flow manifold (from the flow connection between the condenser and the flow controller). For example, the common flow path further includes a bifurcation point that bifurcates into the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch. Preferably, one or more valves are arranged at the bifurcation point, such as a three-way valve.

[0052] 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 a flow controller or a flow manifold.

[0053] Preferably, the first passage of the condenser is arranged downstream of the flow controller or the flow manifold, wherein the flow controller or the 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 within the sump and a second cooling branch connected to an outlet inside the interior of the tub. If three outlets are provided (i.e., one outlet for each spray 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.

[0054] Preferably, the first cooling path and the second cooling path have a common flow path from the inlet at the sump of the circulation flow path to the point at which 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 directing the washing liquid along the first cooling path and / or the second cooling path.

[0055] 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 a variable speed pump such that the liquid flow rate can be controlled, for example, such that the flow rate of the washing liquid through the tub nozzles and / or the lower spray device is reduced or increased.

[0056] 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, which includes at least one outlet connected to a spray device for spraying the washing liquid into the interior of the tub and for supplying the washing liquid back to the sump. The first circulation pump is preferably configured to circulate the washing liquid along the circulation flow path, and

[0057] 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.

[0058] Since the second circulation pump does not circulate the washing liquid through the spraying device, and in particular does not circulate the washing liquid to one or more of the lower 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.

[0059] Therefore, the second circulation pump can be smaller (i.e., lower power) than the first circulation pump. Accordingly, the second circulation pump consumes less energy compared to the first circulation pump. 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.

[0060] Instead of the washing liquid cooling path having the first cooling branch and the second cooling branch, the dishwasher can further include a circulation flow path having an inlet provided at the sump and a flow controller or flow manifold including at least an outlet A and / or an outlet B, wherein the outlet A is connected to an outlet at or within the sump, and / or wherein the outlet B is connected to an outlet inside the interior of the tub.

[0061] Therefore, 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.

[0062] 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 can be a valve element, preferably an electronic valve. Alternatively, a valve element can be provided in each of the washing liquid cooling path and the circulation flow path.

[0063] The washing liquid cooling path and the circulation flow path can have at least a partially common flow path downstream of the sump and / or upstream of the first passage of the condenser.

[0064] The flow path downstream of the sump and upstream of the first passage of the condenser can bifurcate into a circulation flow path and a washing liquid cooling path at a bifurcation point. Preferably, a control valve (such as a three-way valve) is arranged at the bifurcation point.

[0065] Alternatively, the dishwasher comprises a flow controller or a flow manifold disposed upstream of a first passage of the condenser and having at least an outlet A and an outlet B, and a circulating flow path comprising: an inlet provided at a sump and an outlet inside the tub, wherein the inlet of the flow controller or the flow manifold is connected to the inlet of the circulating flow path at the sump, and wherein the washing liquid cooling path comprises an outlet A connected to the inlet of the first passage of the condenser, and wherein the circulating flow path may comprise an outlet B bypassing the condenser and connected to the outlet inside the tub.

[0066] In this case, when the washing liquid circulates along the washing liquid cooling path via the outlet A of the flow controller or the flow manifold, the washing liquid only flows through the first passage of the condenser. By circulating the washing liquid through the outlet A, the washing liquid is cooled.

[0067] The cooled washing liquid in the sump may circulate along the circulating flow path via the outlet B into the inside of the tub and the interior volume of the tub.

[0068] The control unit is preferably adapted to control the flow controller or the flow manifold such that the washing liquid circulates alternately through the outlet A (and thus through the first passage of the condenser) or the outlet B, or at least partially simultaneously through the outlets A and B.

[0069] Preferably, the dishwasher comprises a flow controller or the flow controller having one or more outlets connected to one or more spray arms of a spray device, wherein the control unit is adapted to control the flow controller such that the washing liquid circulating through the flow controller is directed to the one or more spray arms of the spray device to spray the washing liquid onto the articles in the tub. When operating the heat pump in normal mode, the washing liquid is preferably directed through the spray device such that the heated washing liquid is sprayed onto the articles received in the tub.

[0070] Preferably, the spray device is provided inside the tub and configured to spray the washing liquid onto the articles in the tub, and / or the flow controller has one or more outlets connected to one or more spray arms of the spray device, wherein in particular 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 spray device.

[0071] Preferably, the spray device comprises a lower spray arm disposed at the bottom of the tub and / or an intermediate spray arm disposed in the middle of the tub and / or an upper spray arm disposed at the top of the tub.

[0072] 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).

[0073] The control unit can be adapted to control the flow controller such that, during the circulation of the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path, the one or more outlets connected to the one or more spray arms are closed so that no washing liquid passes through the one or more outlets of the flow controller.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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 in an evaporator tank containing a heat exchange medium. 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.

[0076] The evaporator tank is preferably a closed tank for permanently storing the heat exchange medium.

[0077] Condenser:

[0078] Preferably, the condenser is arranged at the side wall of the cabinet housing. The condenser can be arranged inside the cabinet housing, on the inner side facing the cabinet side wall and / or on the outer side of the tub. Preferably, when considering the normal operating position of the dishwasher, the condenser is arranged at the right side wall of the cabinet housing.

[0079] Preferably, the condenser extends in a vertical or substantially vertical plane.

[0080] The inlets and outlets for the refrigerant and the washing liquid of the condenser can be arranged in the bottom area of the condenser, preferably, the inlets and outlets are arranged at the lowest or substantially lowest vertical position of the condenser.

[0081] 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°.

[0082] 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, in the outer tube, the refrigerant or the washing liquid flows around the inner tube, and wherein, in the inner tube, the washing liquid or the refrigerant flows.

[0083] The flow directions in the inner tube and the outer tube are preferably opposite to each other.

[0084] 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.

[0085] The inner tube may have a single circular tube or may have a plurality of tubes arranged in parallel within the outer tube.

[0086] 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).

[0087] The condenser, in particular the outer tube of the condenser, may be enclosed by a heat-insulating layer.

[0088] The inner tube may include at least two pipes arranged parallel or substantially parallel to each other. Preferably, the inner tube of the condenser bifurcates into at least two pipes at a first bifurcation point (i.e., at the inner tube inlet) disposed within the outer tube and merges into a single tube at a second bifurcation point (i.e., at the inner tube outlet) disposed within the outer tube.

[0089] 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 walls / surfaces of 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.

[0090] Except at the spacer elements, within the outer tube, the inner wall and the outer wall or the inner surface and the outer surface of the tube preferably do not contact each other. The spacer elements enable the distance between the inner tube and the outer tube to be constant.

[0091] 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 tub for washing articles therein; a heat pump system having a compressor, an evaporator, and a condenser, an expansion valve, 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 circulating the washing liquid) and a second passage (preferably for circulating the refrigerant), wherein the first passage and the second passage 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 and the evaporator is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium, and wherein in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser is adapted to cool the washing liquid and the evaporator is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium; a sump for collecting the washing liquid; a cover element disposed at the bottom of the tub, above the sump; and a tub nozzle adapted to supply the washing liquid into the interior of the tub and / or a sump nozzle adapted to supply the washing liquid into the sump, wherein the tub nozzle and / or the sump nozzle are at least partially integrated in the cover element. Operating the dishwasher includes: operating the heat pump in the reverse mode and at least temporarily starting the circulation pump simultaneously such that the cooled washing liquid from the sump is directed through the tub nozzle into the tub and / or through the sump nozzle into the sump.

[0092] Preferably, 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 from an inlet provided at the sump through the first passage of the condenser for cooling the washing liquid and to at least one outlet for supplying the cooled washing liquid back to the sump, wherein in particular, during the circulation of the washing liquid, the spraying device is bypassed.

[0093] The washing liquid cooling path may include a first cooling branch or the above-mentioned first cooling branch and / or a second cooling branch or the above-mentioned second cooling branch, wherein operating the dishwasher includes: in a first heat exchange mode a) of the washing cycle: operating the heat pump in the reverse mode and circulating the washing liquid along the first cooling branch from the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path 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 the reverse mode and conveying the washing liquid along the second cooling branch from the inlet of the circulating 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] The first heat exchange mode a) is preferably used during the first washing phase and / or time period of the washing cycle, while the second heat exchange mode b) is preferably used during the second washing phase and / or time period of the washing cycle after the first washing phase and / or time period.

[0096] 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.

[0097] The circulation in the first heat exchange mode a) is preferably used to regenerate / thaw the heat exchange medium preferably accommodated in the evaporator tank.

[0098] The circulation in the second heat exchange mode b) is preferably used to cool the tub and / or the hot air inside the tub, preferably during the drying phase, to improve 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 recycled again.

[0099] Alternatively, the dishwasher includes a circulation flow path having one or the inlet at the sump and an outlet at the interior of the tub, wherein operating the dishwasher includes: in the first heat exchange mode a) of the washing cycle: operating the heat pump in the reverse mode and circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path from the inlet at the sump back to the outlet at or inside the sump, and / or in the second heat exchange mode b) of the washing cycle: operating the heat pump in the reverse mode and transporting the washing liquid along the circulation flow path 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.

[0100] 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 the first passage of the condenser, i.e., the washing liquid is only cooled when circulating along the washing liquid cooling path.

[0101] The arrangement and components of the washing liquid cooling path and / or the circulation 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.

[0102] The first heat exchange mode a) is preferably carried out 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 of the washing cycle and / or at least partly during the drying phase, and / or preferably at the end of the washing phase and / or the cold rinse phase before draining. The cold rinse phase of the washing cycle can be an optional phase.

[0103] When in the heating phase, when heating the washing liquid 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 phase change from liquid to solid is released. Then the solid phase (ice) can be regenerated by carrying out the first heat exchange mode a) without cooling the tub, and thus the efficiency of the washing cycle is increased.

[0104] The washing liquid in the sump is cooled 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.

[0105] Drying stage:

[0106] Preferably, the second heat exchange mode b) is carried out during the drying phase of the washing cycle.

[0107] 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 partly simultaneously with the first heat exchange mode during the drying phase.

[0108] 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).

[0109] 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 increased.

[0110] The dishwasher can include an internal air circulation path for circulating air within the tub, where the air circulation is started by activating the 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), and more preferably after the completion of the circulation of the washing liquid through the sump (i.e., the first heat exchange mode a).

[0111] Preferably, the air circulation path includes an inlet and an outlet each communicating with the interior of the basin, wherein the blower is arranged within the air circulation path. The inlet and the outlet are preferably arranged at the side wall of the basin. Preferably, the inlet and the outlet are arranged at opposite side walls of the basin. The inlet may be arranged at the top region of the basin / basin side wall, while the outlet may be arranged at the bottom region of the basin / basin side wall.

[0112] The air at the bottom can be cooled by the second heat exchange mode b), and the cooled air can be circulated to the top region of the basin. The hot air from the top circulates to the bottom region and can be cooled by the cooled washing liquid introduced into the interior of the basin. Thus, the internal air circulation can assist in cooling the air within the basin and thus assist in drying the articles. As a side effect, the heat extracted from the hot air within the basin can be transferred to the heat exchange medium and thus the heat exchange medium can be regenerated, for example, by melting the solid phase and / or by heating the solid / liquid medium.

[0113] Preferably, the basin opening is provided automatically after the drying phase is completed. For example, the basin opening is achieved by at least partially opening the door of the dishwasher. Due to the opening of the basin, especially the opening of the door, the warm air (still having residual moisture) can flow out of the basin and the interior of the basin cools. Thus, the drying of the articles is further improved. The basin or the door can be automatically closed after a predetermined period of time has elapsed.

[0114] 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.

[0115] "Pulsed operation" means that the component operates alternately in an on or off state, for example, the blower starts for 10 minutes and then shuts off for 10 minutes. Pulsed operation saves energy.

[0116] In the case where no internal air circulation path is provided, the basin opening is preferably provided during the drying phase. For example, the door of the dishwasher can be at least partially automatically opened during the drying phase, wherein 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 drying phase ends, the door can be automatically closed, especially after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0117] 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.

[0118] Thus, the circulation through the basin improves the drying efficiency and can further obtain 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.

[0119] Preferably, at the start of the drying phase and / or after discharging the washing liquid during the final rinse phase, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the blower is started (and / or the washing liquid is circulated through the basin (i.e., in the second heat exchange mode b)). Preferably, at the end of the final rinse phase, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode, and by circulating the washing liquid used during 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, during the predetermined period of time, the heat pump is operated and the washing liquid is cooled. This cooled washing liquid can be used to cool the interior of the basin during the initial stage of the drying phase. Then (after the predetermined period of time) the blower is started to further cool the interior of the basin (air).

[0120] The "operating components" can be, for example, all components of the heat pump, or all components for circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path, particularly along the first cooling branch and / or the second cooling branch in the first heat exchange mode and / or the second heat exchange mode, or, for example, the blower for circulating air in the basin (if the dishwasher includes a closed drying circuit).

[0121] Different heating strategies:

[0122] 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 the normal mode and / or by operating the electric heater, and then, depending on which type of heating was used in the previous one or more washing liquid heating phases, operate the heat pump in the reverse mode to extract heat from the heated washing liquid.

[0123] By operating the heat pump in the 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 the heat pump and the electric heater.

[0124] 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.

[0125] Preferably, the washing liquid is heated during the washing phase of the washing cycle.

[0126] Preferably, depending on one or more of the following:

[0127] - the amount of items to be washed,

[0128] - the amount of washing liquid in the dishwasher,

[0129] - the washing liquid temperature,

[0130] During the washing phase, preferably at the end of the washing phase, and / or during the cold rinse phase of the washing cycle, preferably at the end of the cold rinse phase, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode (preferably circulating through the sump without passing through the interior of the tub).

[0131] Preferably, operating the heat pump in the reverse mode additionally depends on the program selected by the user at the dishwasher or via a device (such as a smartphone) connected to the dishwasher.

[0132] If, for example, the washing liquid is heated only by the electric heater during the hot rinse phase or if no cold rinse phase is provided, it may not be necessary to regenerate the heat exchange medium by operating the heat pump in the reverse mode.

[0133] If, for example, the washing liquid was heated by the electric heater during a previous heating phase, preferably the heat pump is not operated in the reverse mode during the washing phase and the cold rinse phase. Heating only with the electric heater means that no solid-phase heat exchange medium is formed in the evaporator reservoir.

[0134] If, for example, the washing liquid was heated by operating the heat pump in the normal mode during a previous heating phase, preferably the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode during the washing phase and the cold rinse phase.

[0135] The washing liquid can be heated during a previous heating phase successively or at least partially simultaneously by operating the heat pump in the normal mode and operating the electric heater.

[0136] When successively operating the heat pump and the electric heater

[0137] a) The main heating of the washing liquid is carried out by operating the heat pump in the normal mode, and the heating by the electric heater is auxiliary heating. That is, most of the heating is performed by the heat pump in the normal mode, and the electric heater only supports the heating. In this case, the heat pump can be operated in the reverse mode only during the washing phase and not during the cold rinse phase.

[0138] b) The main heating of the washing liquid is carried out by operating an electric heater, and this heating is assisted by operating a heat pump in the normal mode (assisted heating by the heat pump). That is, most of the heating is performed by the electric heater, and the heat pump in the normal mode only supports the heating. In this case, the heat pump may not be operated in the reverse mode in either the cold rinse phase or the washing phase.

[0139] When operating the heat pump and the electric heater at least partially simultaneously

[0140] In this case, the heat pump may be operated in the reverse mode only in the cold rinse phase and not in the washing phase. This heating can be applied to the quick / rapid wash program of the dishwasher. Since the heating is achieved by the heat pump and the electric heater simultaneously, less solid phase may be formed in the evaporator tank. Therefore, it may be sufficient to regenerate the evaporator tank by the heat pump only in the cold rinse phase.

[0141] In a further embodiment, operating the dishwasher may include: heating the washing liquid by operating a heat pump in the normal mode in the washing phase of the wash cycle, then operating the heat pump in the reverse mode to extract heat from the heated washing liquid and circulate the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path, and then heating the washing liquid by operating a heat pump in the normal mode in the hot rinse phase of the wash 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 (ice) that may be formed in the evaporator tank.

[0142] Preferably, the method includes: after heating the washing liquid in the hot rinse phase, operating the heat pump in the reverse mode and circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path.

[0143] Preferably, a cold rinse phase is provided between the washing phase and the hot rinse phase, and preferably, the method includes operating the heat pump in the reverse mode and circulating the washing liquid along the washing liquid cooling path in the cold rinse phase.

[0144] Each individual feature of the dishwasher can be combined with the method, or any subset of features of the dishwasher (e.g., any dependent claim) can be combined with the method individually. Conversely, any individual (functional) feature or (functional) feature subset of the method can be combined with the dishwasher as a functional feature of the machine.

[0145] Any feature disclosed herein (in view of the above embodiments and / or configurations and the detailed embodiments and modifications described below) 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 separately disclosed. For example, a, b, and / or c discloses the elements / combinations a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, and abc.

[0146] 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:

[0147] Figure 1 A perspective view of a dishwasher,

[0148] Figure 2 Without the door, side walls, and top wall of the basin Figure 1 Another perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0149] Figure 3 Without the bottom of the basin Figure 2 A perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0150] Figure 4 Without the air circulation path Figure 3 A top view of the dishwasher,

[0151] Figure 5 Figure 4 A perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0152] Figure 6 Figure 5 Another perspective view of the dishwasher,

[0153] Figure 7 Figure 6 A perspective view of the refrigerant circulation circuit,

[0154] Figure 8 Figure 3 A perspective view of the sump and filter assembly of the dishwasher,

[0155] Figure 9 A perspective view of the sump and flow controller,

[0156] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the flow channel formed between the cover element and the sump,

[0157] Figure 11 Figure 10 A perspective view of the cover element as seen from below,

[0158] Figure 12 Figure 9 An exploded view of the sump and flow controller,

[0159] Figure 13 Enlarged view of a bowl nozzle spraying a washing liquid at different flow rates

[0160] Figure 14 Enlarged view of a lower spray arm spraying a washing liquid at a reduced flow rate

[0161] Figure 15 Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the heat pump and washing liquid flow path arrangement of a dishwasher

[0162] Figure 16 Another schematic diagram of the heat pump and washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0163] Figure 17 Another schematic diagram of the heat pump and washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0164] Figure 18 Another schematic diagram of the heat pump and washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0165] Figure 19 Another schematic diagram of the heat pump and washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0166] Figure 20 Another schematic diagram of the heat pump and washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0167] Figure 21 Another schematic diagram of the heat pump and washing liquid flow path arrangement

[0168] Figure 22 Schematic diagram of a washing cycle with different stages

[0169] Figure 23 As Figure 22 Shown detailed view of the drying stage, and

[0170] Figure 24 Another detailed view of the drying stage

[0171] Figure 1 Is a perspective view of a dishwasher with a heat pump system Figure 2 Is without a door, the side wall and the top wall of the bowl Figure 1 Another perspective view of the dishwasher. The dishwasher 2 includes a cabinet (not shown), which houses a bowl 8 for washing items therein. The bowl 8 includes a side wall 10, a top wall 14, a rear wall (not shown), and a bowl bottom 16 (see Figure 2 ). The cabinet may further include a base 6 disposed below the bowl bottom 16

[0172] Dishes, cooking utensils, and other tableware (also referred to herein as "articles") can be placed in the tub 8 for washing. The dishwasher 2 can also include a slidable lower and upper shelf or basket (not shown) for holding the articles to be washed. The shelf can be moved into or out of the tub 8. The dishwasher 2 can further include a door 18 that can be pivotally connected to the tub 8 to selectively allow access to the tub 8 for loading and unloading articles, and the door is closed when the dishwasher 2 is in operation (e.g., when the articles in the dishwasher 2 are being washed and / or rinsed).

[0173] The dishwasher 2 can have a control panel 4 that is preferably arranged in the upper region of the front face of the dishwasher, e.g., in the middle and / or on the right side of the upper region of the front face of the dishwasher. Preferably, the control panel 4 is integrated in the door 18 and more preferably arranged in the upper region of the door 18. The control panel 4 preferably includes a display for showing information about the washing program (such as energy consumption, duration of the wash cycle, etc.) and an input device for selecting between different washing programs.

[0174] As Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown, the dishwasher 2 can include an internal air circulation path 20 for circulating air within the tub 8 preferably during drying of the articles accommodated in the tub 8. The air circulation path 20 can include an inlet 20a and an outlet 20b each connected to the interior of the tub 8. Preferably, a blower 20c is provided at or near the inlet 20a. Preferably, the inlet 20a and the outlet 20b are arranged at opposite side walls of the tub 8. For the normal operating position of the dishwasher, the inlet 20a is preferably arranged on the right side wall of the tub 8 and the outlet 20b is arranged at the left side wall of the tub. The inlet 20a can be arranged at a vertical position higher than the vertical position of the outlet 20b. The air circulation path 20 preferably extends outside the tub 8.

[0175] As Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, the dishwasher 2 can include a washing liquid circulation path for circulating the washing liquid during the wash cycle. In particular, the liquid collected in the sump 48 (see Figure 3) The washing liquid in can be pumped through the washing liquid conduit system 22 to the interior of the basin 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 spraying devices (spraying devices not shown). In an exemplary embodiment, the delivery conduit includes a connector 26 adapted to connect to a first spraying device (e.g., the top spraying device 26a), a connector 28 adapted to connect to a second spraying device (e.g., the middle spraying device 28a), and a connector 30 adapted to connect to a third spraying device (e.g., the lower spraying device 30a). The top spraying device is preferably near the top part of the dishwasher, the lower spraying device is preferably near the bottom 16 of the basin, and the middle spraying device is preferably located between the top spraying device and the lower spraying device. The delivery conduit 24 and the spraying devices of the washing liquid conduit system are configured to spray the washing liquid onto the articles accommodated in the basin 8 under pressure during the use of the dishwasher.

[0176] 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 that returns to the sump 48 after the washing liquid has been deployed in the basin 8.

[0177] 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 spraying 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 guiding 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.

[0178] 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 the articles. The sump 20 is arranged below the bottom 18 of the basin, and in particular, the sump 48 is fluidly connected to the bottom 18 of the basin from below, so that the washing liquid in the basin 8 can flow into the sump 48.

[0179] The dishwasher 2 may include a fresh water 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 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 tank assembly 46 for providing a feedback signal to the control unit indicative of the amount of fresh water supplied. The fresh water tank assembly 46 may include a tank for storing fresh water. The fresh water tank assembly 46 may further include a vent connection 46a leading to the tub 8 for equalizing the pressure between the fresh water tank assembly 46 and the tub 8, and / or if the water tank overflows, the overflowing wash liquid is directed into the tub interior through the connection 46a.

[0180] In the case where the dishwasher includes a softener assembly 52 (as shown in the figures herein), the outlet 54a of the tank assembly 46 is connected to the salt container of the softener assembly 46, and another outlet 54b of the tank assembly 46 is connected to the resin container 54b of the softener assembly 46. The fresh water flowing out of the tank assembly 52 may be directed through the outlet 54b connected to the resin container (for softening fresh water) or, if the resin in the resin container has to 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 softener assembly 52 is preferably arranged at least partially below the tank assembly 46. A tank valve (not shown) may be provided downstream of the water tank assembly 46 and upstream of the softener assembly 52 to enable or prevent the outflow of water from the water tank assembly 46.

[0181] The softener assembly 52 may include an outlet which is connected via a flow connection 56 to the sump 48 (see Figure 4 ). For example, fresh water may be directly supplied to the sump 48 via the tank assembly 46. Alternatively, the tank assembly 46 may be filled with fresh water which may be supplied to the sump 48 at a subsequent stage of the wash cycle or in a subsequent wash cycle.

[0182] The dishwasher 2 may include a drain circuit 59 for draining the wash liquid in the sump 48 out of the dishwasher 2 via a drain pump 60. The drain circuit 59 may include first, second and third drain path segments 62a-c. The first drain path segment 62a includes an inlet at the sump 48, and the outlet of the first drain path segment 62a is connected to an inlet of the second drain path segment 62b preferably arranged at the side wall of the tub 8. The outlet of the second drain path segment 62b is connected to an inlet of the third drain path segment 62c which directs the wash liquid out of the dishwasher 2.

[0183] The second discharge path section 62b may include a siphon or an air gap for preventing 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, thereby forming 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.

[0184] 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 ). Accordingly, 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.

[0185] Washing liquid cooling path

[0186] 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 one 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).

[0187] Further, instead of or in addition to heating the wash liquid by means of the condenser, a heater (not shown) for heating the wash liquid may be provided. The heater is preferably arranged in or integrated into the housing of the circulation pump 50.

[0188] Heat pump system

[0189] 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 wash liquid and an internal or second passage 84 for guiding the refrigerant, wherein the first passage 82 and the second passage 84 are in heat exchange contact with each other. As Figure 7 shown, the condenser 44 is preferably a tube-in-tube condenser, wherein the outer tube forms the first passage 82 and the inner tube forms the second passage 84.

[0190] The compressor 92 is used to increase the pressure of the refrigerant and to circulate the refrigerant within the refrigerant circuit 83. The refrigerant circulates in the refrigerant circuit 83 through the second passage 84 of the condenser 44, the compressor 92, and the evaporator 90 (not necessarily in this order).

[0191] Condenser

[0192] 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 may be arranged at the right side wall of the dishwasher 2, as Figure 2 shown.

[0193] The condenser 44 may extend in a vertical or substantially vertical plane. The inlet 82a and the outlet 82b of the first passage 82 and the inlet 84a and the outlet 84b of the second passage 84 may be arranged at the bottom of the condenser 44, respectively.

[0194] As Figure 5 and Figure 7 shown, the condenser 44 may 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, wherein the apex of the arc is the highest vertical point of the condenser 44. The arc may have an angle of 180° or substantially 180°.

[0195] As Figure 7As shown, the second passage 84 may include at least two pipes arranged in parallel with each other. To this end, 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.

[0196] 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 a liquid to pass between the inner surface of the first passage and the outer surface of the received second passage.

[0197] 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 a washing liquid around an inner tube 84, and the inner tube is provided for guiding a refrigerant.

[0198] 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 such that the washing liquid flows out of the condenser due to gravity, i.e., out of the first passage 82. Thus, accumulation of dirt in the first passage 82 can be avoided.

[0199] 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.

[0200] Refrigerant circulation circuit

[0201] 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. The flexible piping can easily adapt to non - straight paths without the need for mechanical bending as is the case when using, for example, copper piping.

[0202] 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.

[0203] 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.

[0204] The switching valve 86 can be a valve that only directs the refrigerant from the first inlet 86a to the first outlet 87a and from the second inlet 86b to the second outlet 87b. Preferably, the switching valve 86 is configured to change the refrigerant flow direction within the refrigerant circuit 83. The flow direction of the refrigerant within the condenser 44 and the flow direction of the washing liquid can be opposite to each other to improve heat exchange.

[0205] Evaporator

[0206] 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 tub 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.

[0207] The evaporator reservoir 94 is preferably a closed reservoir for permanently storing the heat exchange medium. Preferably, the evaporator 90 is arranged 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 conduit of the evaporator 90. The evaporator 90 can have, for example, a zigzag structure or any other structure, and can be used to heat the circulating refrigerant (and cool the heat exchange medium) (which is the "normal" operating mode of the heat pump) or to cool the circulating refrigerant (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 circulating washing liquid by heat exchange in the condenser.

[0208] Different operating modes

[0209] 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 arranged 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 gas phase is sucked by the compressor 92 through the second refrigerant circuit section 83b, the switching valve 86, and the third refrigerant circuit section 83c. The compressed refrigerant passes through the fourth refrigerant circuit section 84d, the switching valve 86, and the fifth refrigerant circuit section 84e, and reaches the condenser 44 through the refrigerant condenser inlet 84a. Inside 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.

[0210] 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 described above.

[0211] In the cooling mode for defrosting the evaporator 90 during a washing cycle and / or if the tub is to be cooled during the drying phase of the washing cycle to improve drying, the refrigerant flow direction is reversed as indicated by the thick white arrow in Figures 15 to 21 (the thick black arrow indicates the normal flow direction of the heating process of the washing liquid). This is the "reverse mode" of the heat pump system. The reversal of the refrigerant flow through the condenser 44, the expansion device 88, and the evaporator 90 is provided by the refrigerant flow changing device 86. In the refrigerant flow reverse mode, the evaporator 90 operates as a condenser and heats the heat exchange medium in 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.

[0212] The cooled washing liquid leaving the condenser 44 (i.e., the first passage 82) can be directed through additional outlets A and / or B of the flow controller 64 (see below). The supplied water can flow directly into the sump 48 via outlet A or into the sump via the tub. The washing liquid collected in the sump 48 can then be discharged along the discharge circuit 59 by the discharge pump 60, for example, after defrosting the evaporator 90 and / or cooling the tub 8.

[0213] The flow changing device 86 has two switching states, in which the refrigerant delivery direction of the compressor 92 does not change in both switching states.

[0214] a) In the first state (the normal operating state of the heat pump, the heating mode as described above), the evaporator 90 operates as an evaporator and the condenser 44 operates as a condenser. The refrigerant compressed by the compressor and coming from the compressor outlet is directed by the switching valve 86 to the condenser 44. The refrigerant from the evaporator 90 is drawn into the compressor inlet through the switching valve 86.

[0215] 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.

[0216] Figure 8 is Figure 3 a perspective view of the sump 48 and the filter assembly 40 of the dishwasher 2, Figure 9Is a perspective view of the sump 48 and the flow controller 64. The sump 48 may include one or more wash fluid outlets 70, 72, 74 connected to the wash liquid conduit system 22. The outlets 70, 72, 74 are preferably disposed along the inner side of the sump 48, which is positioned near the bottom 16 of the basin in use. These outlets are generally used to enable the wash fluid to flow from the sump 48 to different components of the dishwasher 2. For example, the sump 48 includes a first outlet 70 fluidly connected to the lower spray device of the wash fluid conduit system 22, a second outlet 72 fluidly connected to the top spray device of the wash fluid conduit system 22, and a third outlet 74 fluidly connected to the intermediate spray device of the wash fluid conduit system 22.

[0217] A fourth wash fluid outlet (referred to herein as "extra outlet A") 76 and / or a fifth wash fluid outlet (referred to herein as "extra outlet B") 78 may be provided at the sump 48, preferably near the first outlet 70, the second outlet 72, and / or the third outlet 74. Further, a drain outlet 79 may be provided in the sump 48 to facilitate the circulation of the wash fluid in the sump 48 by the operation of the circulation pump 50.

[0218] The plurality of outlets 70-78 may be arranged at the sump 48. Preferably, the flow controller 64 is integrated in the sump 48 and includes the outlets 70-78. The wash liquid guided from the condenser 44 to the inlet 66 of the flow controller 64 and flowing through the first outlet 70 supplies the wash liquid to the lower spray device. The wash liquid guided from the condenser 44 to the inlet 66 of the flow controller 64 and flowing through the second outlet 72 supplies the wash liquid to the top spray device. The wash liquid guided from the condenser 44 to the inlet 66 of the flow controller 64 and flowing through the third outlet 74 supplies the wash liquid to the intermediate spray device. In other embodiments, the outlets 70, 72, 74 may enable the wash fluid to be supplied from the sump 48 to any spray device and / or any other component of the wash fluid conduit system 22 of the dishwasher 2. Preferably, when operating the heat pump in the normal operating mode where the wash liquid is heated, the wash liquid is supplied to the basin 8 via the first outlet 70, the second outlet 72, and / or the third outlet 74.

[0219] As Figure 9 shown, the sump 48 is integral and formed of a one-piece construction. The function of the flow controller 64 is described in detail with respect to Figure 12 this.

[0220] Sump nozzle / basin nozzle

[0221] As Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the additional outlet A76 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.

[0222] 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 A76 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.

[0223] When the heat pump is operating in the reverse mode, the washing liquid is preferably guided through the additional outlet A 76 and / or the additional outlet B 78. During the reverse mode, the washing liquid is cooled in the condenser 44, particularly in the first passage 82, and the cooled washing liquid is directly guided to the sump 48 via the outlet A 76 and / or to the interior of the basin 8 via the outlet B78. 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.

[0224] When, for example, the washing liquid is guided along the first cooling branch 43a, the washing liquid does not enter the interior of the basin 8 and thus does not substantially affect the air temperature inside the basin 8. That is, when the heat pump is operating in the reverse mode and the washing liquid is guided along the first cooling branch 43a, the cooled washing liquid does not cool the basin 8 and / or the air inside the basin 8.

[0225] 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).

[0226] The filter assembly 40 may include a cover element 42. The cover element 42 is preferably adapted to cover at least a part of the sump. At least a part of the cover element 42 is arranged above the flow controller 64 so as to cover the respective outlets 70 - 78 of the flow controller 64 and deflect 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 a spray 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 spray devices.

[0227] The cover element 42 has a portion formed as a filter which is adapted to filter the washing liquid as the washing liquid flows from the interior of the basin 8 through the filter to the sump 48.

[0228] As Figure 8 shown, the cover element 42 may include a hub 96 which is arranged 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 spray device (not shown).

[0229] 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 arranged at the lower surface of the cover element 42, and / or the basin nozzle 100 is preferably arranged at the top surface of the cover element 42.

[0230] 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 arranged 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.

[0231] 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.

[0232] 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.

[0233] 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.

[0234] 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.

[0235] 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.

[0236] Flow controller

[0237] Figure 12 is 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 may 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 is selectively movable relative to the sump 48 and the outlets 70 - 78.

[0238] 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.

[0239] When the disk 112 is positioned within the disk portion 110 of the sump 48, the housing 118 of the flow controller 64 preferably fits around or wraps the disk 112. In use, the disk 112 is located between the housing 118 and the sump 48. The cam disk 114, the switch, and the motor 116 are located within an internal compartment (not specifically shown) of the housing 118, such that at least the cam disk 114 contacts the disk 112 through the housing 118. In other embodiments, the housing, the cam disk, the switch, and the motor may have different configurations. For example, the cam disk, the switch, and the motor may be adjacent to the disk 112, rather than being separated by a portion 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.

[0240] Different flow rates

[0241] 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 may be supplied into the interior of the basin 8 at a reduced flow rate 120 or a higher flow rate 122 through the above-described basin nozzles 100 in the reverse mode of the heat pump (see Figure 13) Alternatively or additionally, for example when the sump nozzle 98 is not provided and / or the basin nozzle 100 is not provided, the washing liquid can be supplied into the interior of the basin 8 at a reduced flow rate through the lower spraying device 30a (see: Figure 14 , where the arrows indicate the flow of the washing liquid).

[0242] In the case of the lower spraying device 30a, the normal flow rate through the lower spraying device 30a is preferably the flow rate at which the articles above the lower spraying arm 30a are contacted by the washing liquid. This reduced flow rate is a flow rate reduced compared to the normal flow rate and is adapted such that the washing liquid does not contact the articles when the reduced flow rate through the lower spraying device is applied.

[0243] In the case of the basin nozzle 100, the higher flow rate (and thus also the reduced flow rate below this higher flow rate) for circulating the washing liquid through the basin nozzle 100 is adapted such that water cannot contact the articles.

[0244] 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 through the basin nozzle 100 is applied, the washing liquid is conveyed through the basin nozzle to the first region 124, and when the higher flow rate through the basin nozzle 100 is applied, 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 through the lower spraying device 30a is applied, the washing liquid is conveyed to the first region 124 and the second region 126.

[0245] 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 the reduced flow rate and enters the second region 126 at the 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 spraying length when the reduced flow rate is applied.

[0246] When a reduced or higher flow rate through the tub nozzle 100 is applied or a reduced flow rate through the lower spray device 30a is applied and the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode, the heat exchange medium in the evaporator tank 94 can be regenerated. Additionally, when applied during the drying phase, the drying efficiency can be increased when the cooled wash liquid is supplied to the interior of the tub 8 at a higher flow rate through the tub nozzle 100 (compared to the reduced flow rate through the tub nozzle 100) and / or at a reduced flow rate through the lower spray device 30a to cool the interior of the tub 8.

[0247] 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.

[0248] 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.

[0249] Different heat pump and washing liquid flow path arrangements

[0250] In the following Figures 15 to 21 the reverse refrigerant flow direction for cooling the wash liquid is indicated by the white thick arrow, while the normal refrigerant flow direction for heating the wash liquid is indicated by the black thick arrow.

[0251] Figure 15 is schematically shown in Figures 1 to 14 the heat pump and wash liquid flow path arrangement of the dishwasher 2 shown, i.e., the refrigerant circulation circuit 83 and the wash liquid cooling path 43.

[0252] The flow controller 64 includes an outlet A 76 connected to the sump 48 via a first cooling branch 43a, particularly the sump nozzle 98, and includes an outlet B 78 connected to the tub 8 via a second cooling branch 43b, particularly the tub nozzle 100, for supplying the cooled wash liquid in the reverse mode of the heat pump. Further, the flow controller 64 includes a first outlet 70, a second outlet 72, and a third outlet 74, where the first outlet 70 is connected to the lower spray device 30a, the second outlet 72 is connected to the top spray device 26a, and the third outlet 74 is connected to the intermediate spray device 28a.

[0253] Although the flow controller 64 is shown as having three outlets 70, 72, 74 for the spraying device, it should be understood that in any of the embodiments disclosed herein, there may be only one or two of these outlets. Similarly, in any of the embodiments disclosed herein, there may be only one of outlet A and outlet B.

[0254] In the following Figures 16 to 21 is shown a heat pump and a washing liquid flow path arrangement different from the Figures 1 to 14 shown and schematically illustrated in Figure 15 . Only the differences between the heat pump and washing liquid flow path arrangement of Figures 16 to 21 and the heat pump and washing liquid flow path arrangement of Figure 15 are described. All other features described with respect to Figures 1 to 15 the dishwasher 2 also apply to the Figures 16 to 21 shown arrangement.

[0255] 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 Figure 15 heat pump arrangement, 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 Figure 15 flow controller 64 and has the same connections.

[0256] In this case, the washing liquid is only guided through the condenser 44 when heat exchange is required. Thus, pump energy consumption and fouling of the condenser can be reduced because the washing liquid is not always guided through the condenser 44.

[0257] Preferably, the washing liquid cooling path 43 and the circulation flow path 128 may 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. The control element 130 may 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 may be completely separate and each individually connected to a circulation pump, which in turn is connected to the sump.

[0258] Figure 17 Another washing liquid flow path arrangement is shown, which differs from the Figure 15 arrangement shown in that the 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 spraying devices 26a, 28a, 30a. The flow path downstream of the condenser 44 and upstream of the flow controller 64 may 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 may be arranged, which is adapted to enable or prevent the washing fluid from flowing along the respective cooling branches 43a, 43b. Preferably, if the control unit controls these elements 130 to circulate the washing liquid through the outlet 76 and / or 78, the control unit simultaneously controls the flow controller 64 such that no washing fluid can pass through any of the outlets 70, 72, 74, for example because the disk 112 is rotated to a position blocking the outlets 70, 72, 74.

[0259] In the Figure 18 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 the Figure 15Compared with the flow path arrangement, the washing liquid cooling path 43 is not guided through the flow controller 64, and the outlets 76 and / or 78 are arranged separately from the flow controller 64. A separate circulating flow path 128 is provided, which has an inlet at the sump 48 or the inlet, the 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 spraying devices 26a, 28a, 30a for supplying the washing liquid to the basin 8.

[0260] By separating the washing liquid cooling path 43 having the first cooling branch 43a and the second cooling branch 43b and the circulating flow path 128, and each of the 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 spraying device. Therefore, compared with the first pump 50a, the second pump 50b has less flow resistance and less energy consumption.

[0261] In Figure 19 the washing liquid flow path arrangement shown, the flow controller 64 is arranged upstream of the condenser 44 (while in Figure 15 it is downstream of the condenser 44), where the outlet at the sump 48 is connected to the inlet of the flow controller 64 via the circulation pump 50. The flow controller 64 may include the one or more outlets 70, 72, 74 connected to the corresponding spraying devices. The flow controller 64 may include the additional outlet 76 connected to the inlet of the condenser 44 (at the first passage 82), where the flow path downstream of the condenser 44 preferably bifurcates into the first cooling branch 43a and the second cooling branch 43b.

[0262] In Figure 20 the washing liquid flow path arrangement shown, the flow controller 64 is arranged upstream of the condenser 44 (while in Figure 15In it, the flow controller is downstream of the condenser 44), wherein the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path 43 at the sump 48 is connected to the inlet of the flow controller 64 via a circulation pump 50. The flow controller 64 may include the one or more outlets 70, 72, 74 connected to the respective spraying devices. The flow controller 64 may further include an outlet 76 connected to the inlet of the condenser 44, wherein 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 connected to the basin nozzle 100, thereby forming the circulating flow path 128. In this case, when the washing liquid in the flow controller 64 is guided through the outlet 76, the washing liquid is only guided through the condenser (and thus can be cooled in the reverse mode of the heat pump).

[0263] Figure 21 The shown heat and washing liquid flow path arrangement is very similar to Figure 18 the shown arrangement, wherein the washing liquid cooling path 43 (preferably having a first cooling branch 43a and / or a second cooling branch 43b) is separate from the circulating flow path 128. For simplicity, only a part of the circulating flow path 128 is shown, which shows the connection to the intermediate spraying device 28a. Compared with Figure 18 that, the flow controller outlet 78, especially the basin nozzle 100, is not arranged at the sump, but at or near the side wall of the basin 8. Preferably, the flow controller outlet 78 is arranged at the connector 28 of the intermediate spraying device 28a, such that the washing liquid supplied through the outlet 78 flows along the inner wall of the basin 8 to the bottom of the basin 8 and returns to the sump 48 from there. The washing liquid released from the nozzle 100 is guided to the side wall (here as an example the inner rear wall of the basin) and guided along the side wall, such that the washing liquid does not contact the articles stored in the basin.

[0264] In the following example, it is described how and when to operate the dishwasher in the reverse mode of the heat pump during the washing cycle, and how the washing liquid circulates through the outlet A and / or B and / or through the lower spraying device with a reduced flow rate during the reverse mode.

[0265] Regeneration during the washing cycle depending on different heating strategies

[0266] Figure 22 A washing cycle with the following stages is shown: a washing stage WP, an optional cold rinse stage CR, a hot rinse stage HR (wherein in particular a washing liquid with a rinse aid is used), and a drying stage DP for drying the articles in the dishwasher 2.

[0267] The washing phase WP includes a first heating period H1, and the hot rinse phase includes a second heating period H2, wherein in each of the heating periods H1, H2, the washing liquid can be heated by operating the heat pump in the normal mode and / or by operating the electric heater. As described above, the electric heater is preferably arranged in the sump 48 for heating the washing liquid.

[0268] A first regeneration period R1 can be provided during the washing phase WP, preferably at the end of the washing phase WP, and / or a second regeneration period R2 can be provided during 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 during the hot rinse phase HR, preferably at the end of the hot rinse phase HR, or at the start of the drying phase DP as in the example of Figure 22 . In each of the regeneration periods R1, R2, R3, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode such that the heat exchange medium is heated and thus regenerated. Preferably, at the end of the respective phase or (if applicable) at the end of the respective regeneration period, before the washing liquid is discharged, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode.

[0269] 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.

[0270] 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.

[0271] Preferably, during the regeneration periods R1 to R3, the heat pump is operated in the reverse mode, and the washing liquid circulates from the inlet of the washing liquid cooling path 43 at the sump 48 through the flow controller outlet A76 back to the sump 48 along the washing liquid cooling path 43 (see Figures 15 to 21 ).

[0272] Alternatively, as described with respect to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , the washing liquid can circulate through the lower spray device 30a at a reduced flow rate during the regeneration periods R1 to R3, or the washing liquid can circulate through the basin outlet, preferably the basin nozzle 100, at a reduced flow rate.

[0273] Examples of combinations of the regeneration periods R1 to R3 related to different heating strategies in the first heating period H1 and the second heating period H2 are shown below:

[0274]

[0275] For example, if the washing liquid is heated only by operating the electric heater during the first heating period H1 and / or the second heating period H2, then no heat is extracted from the heat exchange medium in the evaporator 90 during the heating periods H1, H2, and thus regeneration during the regeneration period R1 and / or R2 may not be necessary. Additionally, regeneration during 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.

[0276] Drying stage of the washing cycle

[0277] Figure 23 shows a detailed view of the drying phase as Figure 22 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 outlet B 78 of the flow controller into the interior of the tub 8 to cool the tub 8, and from there back to the sump 48 via the tub 8. By cooling the tub 8 with the cooled washing liquid, the air inside 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.

[0278] Air circulation during the first drying period D1

[0279] If the dishwasher includes an internal air circulation path 20, then preferably during the drying phase, the air inside the tub 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 circulation of the washing liquid through the sump is completed in the period R3 (if provided), the blower 20c is started. During the first drying period D1, when the washing liquid is circulated 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 preferably operate continuously or in a pulsed manner, and / or the compressor 92 and the blower operate at least partially simultaneously. The air at the bottom can be cooled by the circulation of the washing liquid through the tub, and the cooled air can be circulated to the top region of the tub through the internal air circulation path 20. 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 aids in the cooling of the air inside the tub and thus aids in the drying of the articles.

[0280] Door opening after the drying stage

[0281] 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 drying phase has ended. In particular, during the drying period D3, the basin is opened. Thus, the remaining warm air can flow out of the basin interior, and thus the basin interior cools. Thereby, the removal of moisture from the articles in the basin is further improved. The basin opening can for example include the opening of the door 18 of the dishwasher. In particular, the door 18 of the dishwasher 2 can be automatically opened after the drying phase DP has been completed. Alternatively, the basin opening can include any flow connection from the basin interior to the surroundings such that the warm air in the basin can flow out of the dishwasher. Preferably, the door opening or the discharging of air to the surroundings is provided after a previous condensation phase such as R3 and / or D1 and / or D2 has been used.

[0282] Drying stage without an internal air circulation path

[0283] 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

[0284] first drying period D1 of Figure 23 as described above, except that no air circulates inside the basin. Thereby, by circulating the cooled washing liquid, the air inside and within the basin is cooled, and thus the moisture in the air condenses when contacting the cooled basin interior, and the drying of the washed articles is improved. Figure 24 Compared with the drying phase DP shown in Figure 23 where the third drying period D3 is carried out after the drying phase DP has been completed, Figure 24 the third drying period D3 of

[0285] Figure 23 and Figure 24 the regeneration period R3 during the drying phase of

[0286] Figure 23 and Figure 24 the drying phase DP of may further include a regeneration period R3 before the drying period D1 (or the drying period D2 in the case of Figure 24 ). The regeneration period R3 may be provided before the washing liquid circulates through the basin 8 in the drying period D1 (or before the drying period D2 in the case of 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 ) through the outlet A76 back to the sump 48. 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 basin 8 in the subsequent drying period D1 (or in the case of Figure 24 in the drying period D2) to cool the basin 8. Thereby, due to the temperature difference between the inside of the basin and the cooled liquid circulating through the basin, the condensation of the moisture in the basin is more efficient.

[0287] Different flow rates during the regeneration period R3 and the subsequent drying period

[0288] As described with respect to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , during the regeneration period R3, the washing liquid may be circulated through the basin outlet (basin nozzle 100) at a reduced flow rate, and during the subsequent drying period D1 (or D2 in the case of Figure 24 ) at a higher flow rate through the basin nozzle 100. Thus, the washing liquid can first be circulated through the basin nozzle 100 at a reduced flow rate to cool the washing liquid, and then the cooled washing liquid can be circulated through the basin nozzle 100 at a higher flow rate in the 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 inside the basin 8 and / or the basin 8 until the washing liquid flows back into the sump 48. Thereby, due to the temperature difference between the inside of the basin and the liquid circulating through the basin, the condensation of the moisture in the basin is more efficient.

[0289] Alternatively, the washing liquid may be circulated 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 basin are cooled, and the condensation of the moisture is improved without the articles being wetted by the circulating liquid.

[0290] Below, examples of the combination of the regeneration period R3 and the drying periods D1 to D3 of dishwashers with and without internal air circulation are shown:

[0291]

[0292] Examples 1 to 4 are Figure 23 Examples of the drying phase DP shown, which drying phase includes a first drying period D1 and in which 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 in which the dishwasher does not include an internal air circulation path 20.

[0293] List of reference numerals

[0294] 2 Dishwasher

[0295] 4 Control panel

[0296] 6 Base

[0297] 8 Basin 10 Side wall (basin)

[0298] 14 Top wall (basin)

[0299] 16 Basin bottom

[0300] 18 Door

[0301] 20 Internal air circulation path

[0302] 20a Inlet

[0303] 20b Outlet

[0304] 20c Blower

[0305] 22 Wash liquid conduit system

[0306] 24 Delivery conduit 26 Connector to top spray device

[0307] 26a Top spray device / top spray arm 28 Connector to intermediate spray arm

[0308] 28a Intermediate spray device / intermediate spray arm 30 Connector to lower spray arm

[0309] 30a Lower spray device / lower spray arm 31 Refrigerant flow direction

[0310] 32 Wash liquid flow direction

[0311] 40 Filter assembly

[0312] 42 Cover element

[0313] 43 Wash liquid cooling path

[0314] 43a, 43b First cooling branch / Second cooling branch 44 Condenser

[0315] 46 Fresh water storage tank assembly

[0316] 46a Connector to the basin

[0317] 48 Liquid collection tank

[0318] 50, 50a, 50b (First / Second) circulation pump

[0319] 52 Softener assembly

[0320] 54a Outlet to the salt container

[0321] 54b Outlet to the resin container

[0322] 56 Flow connector to the liquid collection tank

[0323] 58 Flow meter

[0324] 59 Drainage circuit

[0325] 60 Drainage pump

[0326] 62a - c First / Second / Third drainage path section

[0327] 64 Flow manifold / Flow controller

[0328] 66 Inlet of the flow controller

[0329] 68a, 68b First / Second fluid flow path

[0330] 70 First washing fluid outlet

[0331] 72 Second washing fluid outlet

[0332] 74 Third washing fluid outlet

[0333] 76 Fourth washing fluid outlet / Additional outlet A

[0334] 78 Fifth washing fluid outlet / Additional outlet B

[0335] 79 Drainage outlet

[0336] 80a - c First section, Second section, Third section of the condenser

[0337] 81 Spacer element

[0338] 82 First passage (for washing liquid, e.g., the outer tube of the condenser)

[0339] 82a Inlet of the first passageway

[0340] 82b Outlet of the first passageway

[0341] 83 Refrigerant circulation circuit

[0342] 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

[0343] 84 Second passageway (for refrigerant, e.g., inner tube of condenser)

[0344] 84a Inlet (outlet) of the second passageway

[0345] 84b Outlet (inlet) of the second passageway

[0346] 86 Refrigerant flow changing device / switching valve

[0347] 86a, 86b First / second inlets of the refrigerant flow changing device

[0348] 87a, 87b First / second outlets of the refrigerant flow changing device

[0349] 88 Expansion device

[0350] 90 Evaporator

[0351] 90a Evaporator inlet

[0352] 90b Evaporator outlet

[0353] 92 Compressor

[0354] 92a, 92b Inlet / outlet of the compressor

[0355] 94 Evaporator sump 96 Hub for the lower spray device

[0356] 98 Sump nozzle

[0357] 100 Basin nozzle

[0358] 102 Flow passage

[0359] 102a First part

[0360] 102b Second part

[0361] 104 Sump attachment

[0362] 106 Fixed element orifice

[0363] 110 Disk part

[0364] 112 trays

[0365] The orifice of tray 113

[0366] 114 cam disk

[0367] 116 motor

[0368] The housing of the flow controller 118

[0369] The spray jet with reduced flow 120

[0370] The spray jet with higher flow 122

[0371] The first area of the basin bottom 124

[0372] The second area of the basin bottom 126

[0373] Recirculation flow path 128

[0374] Control element 130

[0375] C Washing fluid flow

[0376] H1, H2 First / Second heating period

[0377] R1 to R3 First / Second / Third regeneration period

[0378] D1 First drying period using internal air circulation

[0379] D2 Second drying period with no air circulation and the door closed

[0380] D3 Third drying period with the door open

[0381] WP Washing stage

[0382] CR Cold rinse stage

[0383] HR Hot rinse stage

[0384] DP Drying stage

Claims

1. A dishwasher (2), comprising: A cabinet that houses a basin (8) for washing articles therein, A heat pump system having a compressor (92), an evaporator (90), a condenser (44), an expansion valve (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) for circulating a washing liquid and a second passage (84) for circulating a refrigerant, wherein, the first passage and the second passage (82, 84) are in heat exchange contact with each other, A heat exchange medium that is in heat 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, and the evaporator (90) is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium, and wherein, in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to cool the washing liquid, and the evaporator (90) is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium, A sump (48) for collecting the washing liquid, A control unit that is adapted to control the operation of the dishwasher (2) during a washing cycle, A lid element (42) disposed at the bottom (16) of the basin (8), above the sump (48), and A basin nozzle (100) adapted to supply the washing liquid into the interior of the basin (8) and / or a sump nozzle (98) adapted to supply the washing liquid into the sump, Wherein, the basin nozzle (100) and / or the sump nozzle (98) are at least partially integrated in the lid element (42), and Wherein, the control unit is adapted to operate the heat pump in the reverse mode and at least temporarily start the circulation pumps (50, 50b) simultaneously, such that the cooled washing liquid from the sump (48) is directed through the basin nozzle (100) into the interior of the basin (8) and / or through the sump nozzle (98) into the sump (48).

2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The lid element (42) has a portion formed as a filter, the filter being adapted to filter the washing liquid flowing from the interior of the basin (8) into the sump (48).

3. The dishwasher according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The lid 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.

4. The dishwasher according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein, The sump (48) includes at least a washing fluid outlet A (76) and / or a washing fluid outlet B (78), wherein, the washing fluid outlet A (76) is fluidly connected to the sump nozzle (98) via a flow channel (102), and / or the washing fluid outlet B (78) is fluidly connected to the basin nozzle (100).

5. The dishwasher according to claim 4, wherein, The washing fluid outlet A (76) extends vertically or substantially vertically from the sump (48), and Wherein, the side wall of the washing fluid outlet A (76) includes an orifice that fluidly connects the washing fluid outlet A (76) to the flow channel (102).

6. The dishwasher according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The sump nozzle (98) and / or one or the flow channels (102) connected to the sump nozzle (98) are arranged at the lower surface of the cover element (42), and / or the basin nozzle (100) is arranged at the top surface of the cover element (42).

7. The dishwasher according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein, A first part (102a) of the flow channel (102) is integrated in the cover element (42), and a second part (102b) of the flow channel (102) is integrated in the sump (48), and wherein, the first part (102a) and the second part (102b) are configured such that when the cover element (42) is mounted on the sump (48), the first part and the second part (102a, 102b) form the flow channel (102), which is used to guide the washing liquid from the washing fluid outlet A (76) to the sump (48) via the sump nozzle (98), and wherein 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).

8. The dishwasher according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The sump (48) includes a plurality of washing fluid outlets (70, 72, 74, 76, 78), and the plurality of washing fluid outlets are connected to a washing liquid conduit system (22) having one or more spraying devices (26a, 28a, 30a), wherein, the cover element (42) extends above these washing fluid outlets (70, 72, 74, 76, 78), and the cover element (42) includes sump attachments (104), and the size and shape of each sump attachment (104) are determined to be assembled on the corresponding washing liquid outlet (70, 72, 74, 76, 78) of the sump (48) to connect each of the plurality of washing fluid outlets (70, 72, 74, 76, 78) to the corresponding spraying device (26a, 28a, 30a) and / or to the sump nozzle (98) and / or to the basin nozzle (100).

9. The dishwasher according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cover element (42) includes a hub (96) extending from the upper side of the cover element (42), wherein the hub (96) is adapted to connect one of the plurality of outlets (70, 72, 74, 76, 78) or a washing fluid outlet (70) among the plurality of outlets to the spraying device for the lower spray arm (30a).

10. The dishwasher according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: A washing liquid cooling path (43), the washing liquid cooling path having: an inlet provided at the sump (48), circulation pumps (50, 50b), a first passage (82) of the condenser (44) for cooling the washing liquid in the reverse mode of the heat pump, and a sump nozzle (98) for supplying the cooled washing liquid to the sump (48) and / or a basin nozzle (100) for supplying the cooled washing liquid back to the sump (48) via the basin (8), wherein in particular, the washing liquid cooling path bypasses the spraying devices (26a, 28a, 30a) for spraying the washing liquid onto the articles in the basin (8).

11. The dishwasher according to claim 10, wherein, The washing liquid cooling path (43) includes: a first cooling branch (43a) that connects the first passage (82) of the condenser to the sump nozzle (98), and / or a second cooling branch (43b) that connects the first passage (82) of the condenser to the tub nozzle (100), wherein the washing liquid guided along the second cooling branch (43b) returns to the sump (48) via the tub (8), wherein the dishwasher (2) further includes a hydraulic circulation arrangement having at least one controllable component, and wherein, by control of the control unit, the at least one controllable component is adapted to circulate the washing liquid pumped from the sump (48) along the first cooling branch (43a) and / or the second cooling branch (43b).

12. The dishwasher according to claim 11, wherein, The first passage (82) of the condenser is arranged upstream of the flow controller (64) or the flow manifold, wherein the flow controller (64) or the flow manifold includes at least outlet A (76) or the outlet A and / or outlet B (78) or the outlet B, wherein the first cooling branch (43a) includes the outlet A (76) that connects the first passage (82) of the condenser to the sump nozzle (98), and / or wherein the second cooling branch (43b) includes the outlet B (78) that connects the first passage (82) of the condenser to the tub nozzle (100) inside the tub (8).

13. The dishwasher according to claim 11, wherein, The dishwasher (2) includes: a first circulation pump (50a) and a second circulation pump (50b), and a circulation flow path (128) that includes 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) that is connected to spray devices (26a, 28a, 30a) for spraying the washing liquid into the interior of the tub (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).

14. The dishwasher according to claim 10, further comprising: a circulation flow path (128) having 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 outlet A (76) or the outlet A and / or outlet B (78) or the outlet B, wherein the outlet A (76) is connected to the sump nozzle (98), and / or wherein the outlet B (78) is connected to the tub nozzle (100) inside the tub (8).

15. The dishwasher according to claim 14, wherein, 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, 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).

16. The dishwasher according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The dishwasher (2) includes: at least one spraying device (26a, 28a, 30a), which is arranged inside the tub (8) and is configured to spray the washing liquid onto the articles in the tub (8), and / or a flow controller (64) or the flow controller, which has one or more washing fluid outlets (70, 72, 74) connected to one or more spray arms (26a, 28a, 30a) of the spraying device. wherein the control unit is adapted to control the flow controller (64) such that the washing liquid circulating through the flow controller (64) is guided to one or more spray arms (26a, 28a, 30a) of the spraying device.

17. The dishwasher according to claim 16, Among them, the flow controller (64) is arranged below the cover element (42), and / or wherein the cover element (42) includes a plurality of outlets (104), and each of the plurality of outlets is assigned to an outlet of the flow controller (64).

18. The dishwasher according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The condenser is a tube-in-tube condenser, which includes an inner tube forming the second (or the first) passage (84) of the condenser and an outer tube forming the first (or the second) passage (82) of the condenser, and wherein the inner tube (84) has a smaller cross-section arranged inside the outer tube (82) with a larger cross-section, and wherein in particular, respectively, in the outer tube (82), the refrigerant or the washing liquid flows around the inner tube (84), and wherein, in the inner tube (84), the washing liquid or the refrigerant flows.

19. A method for operating a dishwasher, in particular a dishwasher according to any one of the preceding claims, a cabinet, which houses a tub (8) for washing articles therein, a heat pump system, which has a compressor (92), an evaporator (90), and a condenser (44), an expansion valve (88), and a refrigerant flow change device (86), and the refrigerant flow change device is adapted to change between a normal mode and a reverse mode of the heat pump, Among them, the condenser (44) includes a first passage (82) for circulating the washing liquid and a second passage (84) for circulating the refrigerant, wherein the first passage and the second passage (82, 84) are in heat exchange contact with each other, a heat exchange medium, which is in heat 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, and the evaporator (90) is adapted to cool the heat exchange medium, and wherein, in the reverse mode of the heat pump, the condenser (44) is adapted to cool the washing liquid, and the evaporator (90) is adapted to heat the heat exchange medium, a sump (48) for collecting the washing liquid, a cover element (42) arranged at the bottom (16) of the tub (8) above the sump (48), and a tub nozzle (100) adapted to supply the washing liquid into the interior of the tub (8) and / or a sump nozzle (98) adapted to supply the washing liquid into the sump (48), wherein the tub nozzle (100) and / or the sump nozzle (98) is at least partially integrated in the cover element (42), and wherein operating the dishwasher (2) comprises: operating the heat pump in the reverse mode and at least temporarily simultaneously starting the circulation pumps (50, 50b) such that the cooled washing liquid from the sump (48) is directed through the tub nozzle (100) into the tub (8) and / or through the sump nozzle (98) into the sump (48).

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