Dishwasher

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a dishwasher configured such that an evaporator constituting a heat pump system is provided inside a heat exchange duct constituting a heat exchange flow path, and air cooled while performing heat exchange with a refrigerant in the evaporator is not discharged to an accommodation space between a tub and a base but is discharged to the outside of the base, thereby preventing a decrease in operating efficiency of a heat pump module that can occur when the air cooled while performing heat exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator is re-introduced to the evaporator.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a dishwasher, and more particularly, to a dishwasher configured such that an evaporator constituting a heat pump system is disposed inside a heat exchange pipe constituting a heat exchange flow path, and that air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is not discharged into the receiving space between the tub and the base, but is discharged to the outside of the base, thereby preventing a possible reduction in the operating efficiency of the heat pump module when the air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is redirected back to the evaporator. Background Technology

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

[0003] A dishwasher typically includes a tub with a washing space defined therein, a dish rack that holds the objects to be washed inside the tub, spray arms that spray washing water into the dish rack, and a reservoir that stores water and supplies the washing water to the spray arms.

[0004] Using a dishwasher can reduce the time and effort required to wash dishes and other clean items after meals, thus contributing to user convenience.

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

[0006] Dishwashers with heat pump devices as an alternative to electric heaters have emerged.

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

[0008] In this regard, Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 118806186 (Prior Art Document 001) discloses a configuration of a dishwasher that includes a heat pump device as a heating unit for heating the washing water.

[0009] [Existing Technical Documents]

[0010] [Patent Literature]

[0011] (Patent Document 001) Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 118806186 Summary of the Invention

[0012] However, the dishwasher disclosed in prior art document 001 as described above is configured such that the evaporator constituting the heat pump device is disposed on the bottom surface of the base with the entire assembly exposed to the receiving space of the base.

[0013] Therefore, since the cooled air is redirected to the blower fan while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator of the heat pump device constituting prior art document 001, the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator may be reduced, and thus the overall operating efficiency of the heat pump device is reduced.

[0014] Furthermore, as a result, in prior art document 001, the air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator constituting the heat pump device may flow to the storage tank, washing pump, and tub, thereby at least partially cooling the storage tank, washing pump, and tub. Consequently, during the washing cycle and heated rinsing cycle, the washing water temperature and tub temperature drop below an appropriate level, thereby reducing washing efficiency.

[0015] Furthermore, the dishwasher disclosed in prior art document 001 as described above is configured such that a plurality of blower fans and a plurality of fan motors are provided in front of the evaporator to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator constituting the heat pump device.

[0016] Therefore, multiple blower fans and multiple fan motors are housed in the containment space formed between the barrel and the base, which may result in a decrease in the space efficiency of the containment space.

[0017] Furthermore, the dishwasher disclosed in prior art document 001 is configured such that the compressor, which serves as a heating element, and the main control panel are located in the base and adjacent to each other.

[0018] In this regard, the dishwasher disclosed in prior art document 001 does not include a device for preventing overheating that may occur when the compressor and the main control panel are placed close to each other, which poses a high risk of overheating of the compressor and the main control panel.

[0019] This disclosure aims to solve the problems of the prior art as described above. Therefore, a first object of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that an evaporator constituting a heat pump system is disposed inside a heat exchange pipe constituting a heat exchange flow path, and air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is not discharged into the receiving space between the tub and the base, but is discharged to the outside of the base, thereby preventing a possible reduction in the operating efficiency of the heat pump module when the air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is redirected back to the evaporator.

[0020] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator constituting the heat pump device does not flow toward the storage tank, the washing pump and the tub, thereby preventing potential deterioration of washing performance when the cooled air cools the storage tank, the washing pump and the tub.

[0021] Furthermore, a third object of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that the blower module for generating an airflow for heat exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator is configured to include only a single blower fan and a single blower motor, thereby minimizing the space occupied by the blower module in the accommodating space and preventing a reduction in space utilization due to the occupied space.

[0022] Furthermore, a fourth object of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that at least a portion of the airflow flowing into the evaporator flows over and along the compressor, which is a heating element, thereby effectively preventing overheating of the compressor and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the condenser.

[0023] Furthermore, a fifth object of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that the air inlet of the air guide for directing the airflow into the evaporator toward the compressor is formed to open toward or near the main control panel, thereby effectively preventing overheating that may occur when the compressor and the main control panel are positioned close to each other.

[0024] The purpose of this disclosure is not limited to the objectives described above. Other objectives and advantages not mentioned in this disclosure may be understood based on the following description and will be more clearly understood based on embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, it will be readily understood that the objectives and advantages of this disclosure can be achieved by the means indicated in the claims and combinations thereof.

[0025] The dishwasher according to this disclosure includes: a tub defining a washing space and accommodating tableware; a base disposed below the tub; a reservoir disposed between the base and the tub and configured to store washing water to be supplied to the tub; and a heat pump module disposed between the base and the tub and configured to heat the washing water to be supplied to the reservoir, wherein the heat pump module includes: a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant; a condenser configured to receive refrigerant that has flowed through the compressor and to heat the washing water to be supplied to the reservoir; an evaporator configured to receive refrigerant that has flowed through the condenser; and a heat exchange conduit configured to accommodate the evaporator and define a channel in the heat exchange conduit through which an airflow to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator flows.

[0026] In addition, the heat pump module may also include a blower module configured to blow air to generate the airflow to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator, wherein the heat exchange conduit includes: a first conduit section housing the evaporator; and a second conduit section housing the blower module.

[0027] Furthermore, the first pipe section may be located behind the second pipe section.

[0028] Furthermore, when the dishwasher is viewed in a direction perpendicular to the flow direction of the airflow, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first pipe section can be larger than that of the second pipe section.

[0029] In addition, the heat exchange pipe may also include a third pipe section disposed between the first pipe section and the second pipe section.

[0030] Furthermore, when the dishwasher is viewed in a direction perpendicular to the flow direction of the airflow, the cross-sectional area of ​​the front end surface of the third pipe section can be set to be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the rear end surface of the third pipe section.

[0031] Furthermore, when the dishwasher is viewed in a direction perpendicular to the flow direction of the airflow, the cross-sectional area of ​​the third duct section can gradually increase as the third duct section extends from its front end toward its rear end.

[0032] Furthermore, the third pipe section can be integrally formed and connected with the first pipe section and the second pipe section.

[0033] In addition, the blower module may include: a blower fan configured to accelerate air to generate the airflow; and a blower motor for generating rotational driving force to drive the blower fan, wherein the blower fan consists of a single blower fan, and wherein the blower motor consists of a single blower motor.

[0034] Furthermore, the blower fan can be implemented as an axial flow fan.

[0035] Furthermore, the heat exchange pipe can be configured to be in close contact with the inner surface of the rear wall of the base.

[0036] Furthermore, at a location where the heat exchange pipe is positioned in close contact with the rear wall of the base, an air outlet can be provided that extends through the rear wall of the base in a front-to-back direction, wherein the airflow that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is discharged from the heat exchange pipe through the air outlet.

[0037] Furthermore, the compressor can be located between one side wall of the evaporator and the base, and can also be located in front of the evaporator.

[0038] Furthermore, at least a portion of the compressor may be positioned in the front of the air inlet of the heat exchange pipe in the front-back direction.

[0039] Furthermore, the compressor may be configured such that the volume of the portion of the compressor located in front of the air inlet of the heat exchange pipe is greater than the volume of the portion of the compressor located behind the air inlet of the heat exchange pipe.

[0040] In addition, the heat pump module may also include an air guide configured to direct the flow of the airflow such that at least a portion of the airflow to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator flows over and along the compressor and is then guided to the air inlet of the heat exchange duct.

[0041] Furthermore, the air guide may include: an upper wall disposed at a position spaced apart from the compressor in an upward direction; and a rear wall disposed at a position spaced apart from the compressor rearward, wherein the upper wall may be connected to the upper end of the heat exchange pipe, and wherein the rear wall may be connected to the outer peripheral surface of the heat exchange pipe.

[0042] In addition, the dishwasher may also include a main control panel configured to control the power supplied to the compressor to control the operation of the compressor, wherein the air guide may have an air inlet through which airflow to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is guided, wherein the air inlet may open toward the main control panel.

[0043] Furthermore, the air guide may have an air inlet through which an airflow to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is guided, wherein the air inlet may open in the forward direction.

[0044] In addition, the blower module may include: a blower fan configured to accelerate air to generate the airflow; and a blower motor for generating rotational driving force to drive the blower fan, wherein the blower fan may be implemented as a centrifugal fan and may be housed in the air guide.

[0045] The dishwasher according to this disclosure is configured such that the evaporator constituting the heat pump system is located inside the heat exchange pipe constituting the heat exchange flow path, and the air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is not discharged into the receiving space between the tub and the base, but is discharged to the outside of the base, thereby preventing a possible reduction in the operating efficiency of the heat pump module when the air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is redirected to the evaporator.

[0046] Furthermore, the dishwasher according to this disclosure is configured such that the air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator constituting the heat pump device does not flow toward the storage tank, the washing pump, and the tub, thereby preventing possible deterioration of washing performance when the cooled air cools the storage tank, the washing pump, and the tub.

[0047] Furthermore, the dishwasher according to this disclosure is configured such that the blower module for generating airflow to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is configured to include only a single blower fan and a single blower motor, thereby minimizing the space occupied by the blower module in the accommodating space and preventing a reduction in space utilization due to the space occupied.

[0048] In addition, the dishwasher according to this disclosure is configured such that at least a portion of the airflow flowing into the evaporator flows over and along the compressor, which is a heating element, thereby effectively preventing overheating of the compressor and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the condenser.

[0049] In addition, the dishwasher according to this disclosure is configured such that the air inlet of the air guide for directing the airflow direction so that the airflow into the evaporator is directed toward the compressor is formed to open toward or near the main control panel, thereby effectively preventing overheating that may occur when the compressor and the main control panel are positioned close to each other.

[0050] In addition to the effects described above, the specific effects of this disclosure will be explained along with the specific matters for implementing this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the dishwasher shown.

[0053] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 The image shows a front perspective view of the dishwasher with the door open.

[0054] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a heat pump module installed in a dishwasher according to this disclosure.

[0055] Figure 5 This is a top view showing the state in which the heat pump module constituting the dishwasher according to this disclosure is installed in the base.

[0056] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The top view of the heat pump module shown.

[0057] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The diagram shows a front perspective view of the heat exchange pipes, evaporator, and blower module.

[0058] Figure 8 and Figure 9 It shows that Figure 7 The front perspective and top view of the components shown with the pipe cover removed.

[0059] Figure 10 This shows that a drainage feature is formed in the rear wall of the base. Figure 9 A rear three-dimensional view of the airflow at the air outlet in the heat exchange pipe shown.

[0060] Figure 11 This is a front perspective view showing a configuration in which a rearward extension is added to the first cover portion constituting the pipe cover.

[0061] Figure 12 yes Figure 11The longitudinal section view of the configuration shown.

[0062] Figure 13 and Figure 14 This is a front perspective view of a heat pump module including an air guide according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Figure 15 This is a front perspective view of a heat pump module including an air guide according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] Figure 16 and Figure 17 This is a front perspective view of a heat pump module including an air guide according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Figure 18 and Figure 19 It shows that Figure 16 and Figure 17 The diagram shows a front perspective view and a top view of the heat pump module installed in the base.

[0066] Figure 20 This is a front perspective view of a heat pump module including an air guide according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0067] The above-described objects, features, and advantages are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Therefore, those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains will be able to readily implement the technical concepts of this disclosure. In describing this disclosure, detailed descriptions of known technologies related to this disclosure are omitted where such descriptions might unnecessarily obscure the main points of this disclosure. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar components.

[0068] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another element, component, region, layer, or section. Therefore, without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the first element, component, region, layer, or section described below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or section.

[0069] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular constructions “a” and “an” are intended to include the plural constructions as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0070] It will also be understood that when a first element or layer is referred to as existing "on" a second element or layer, the first element may be directly disposed on the second element or may be indirectly disposed on the second element, and the third element or layer may be disposed between the first and second elements or layers. It will also be understood that when a first element or layer is referred to as existing "below" a second element or layer, the first element may be directly disposed below the second element or may be indirectly disposed below the second element, and the third element or layer may be disposed between the first and second elements or layers.

[0071] It should be understood that when a component or layer is referred to as being "connected to" or "attached to" another component or layer, it may be directly connected to or attached to the other component or layer, or there may be one or more intermediate components or layers in between. Furthermore, it should be understood that when a component or layer is referred to as being "between" two components or layers, it may be the only component or layer between the two components or layers, or there may be one or more intermediate components or layers in between.

[0072] It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms "comprising" or "including" specify the presence of the stated feature, integer, operation, element, and / or component, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, operations, elements, components, and / or portions thereof. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more related listed items. When preceding a list of elements, expressions such as "at least one of" may modify the entire list of elements and may not modify the individual elements of the list. In the interpretation of numerical values, errors or tolerances may arise even if not explicitly described.

[0073] For ease of explanation, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “lower,” “lower side,” “above,” “upper,” etc., may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, the spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, when the device in the drawings can be flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features will be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary terms “below” and “under” can cover the orientation above and in subsequent drawings. The device may be oriented in other ways, such as rotated 90 degrees or otherwise, and the spatial relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0074] As used herein, “A and / or B” means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise specified. When preceding a list of elements, expressions such as “at least one of” may modify the entire list of elements without modifying the individual elements. As used herein, unless otherwise specified, “C to D” means including C to including D.

[0075] In the following description, the present disclosure will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate configurations according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0076] [Overall structure of the dishwasher]

[0077] Hereinafter, the overall structure of the dishwasher 1 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0078] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view of the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a simplified cross-sectional view that briefly shows the internal structure of the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure. Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 The image shows a front perspective view of the dishwasher with door 30 open.

[0079] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a housing 10 that constitutes the exterior.

[0080] For example, the housing 10 may include an upper panel 11, a left panel 12, and a right panel 13 that define the appearance of the dishwasher 1, respectively.

[0081] The top panel 11, the left side panel 12, and the right side panel 13 can be integrally formed with each other, or they can be formed separately and assembled.

[0082] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a tub 20 installed in the interior space of the housing 10 and having a washing space 21 defined therein, wherein the object to be washed is washed, and wherein the front surface of the tub is open.

[0083] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a door 30 that opens / closes the front surface of the tub 20.

[0084] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a base 90 disposed below the tub 20 and used to support the tub 20.

[0085] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a drive 40 located below the tub 20 to supply, collect, circulate, and discharge washing water for washing the object being washed.

[0086] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a dish rack assembly 50, which is detachably disposed in the internal washing space 21 of the tub 20 to hold the washing objects therein.

[0087] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a water sprayer mounted adjacent to the dish rack assembly 50 to spray washing water thereon for washing the dish.

[0088] In this respect, the items to be washed in the dish rack set 50 can be tableware such as bowls, plates, spoons, and chopsticks, as well as other cooking utensils. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the items to be washed will be referred to as tableware.

[0089] First, the tub 20 can be formed as a box shape with a fully open front surface and has a so-called washing tub configuration.

[0090] The washing space 21 can be confined inside the tub 20. The front surface of the tub 20 opening can be opened / closed via the door 30.

[0091] Bucket 20 can be formed by pressing a metal sheet that is resistant to high temperatures and moisture, such as stainless steel.

[0092] In addition, multiple supports can be provided on the inner surface of the bucket 20 for supporting and installing functional components inside the bucket 20, such as the bowl rack assembly 50 and the water sprayer, which will be described later.

[0093] In one example, the drive 40 may include a reservoir 41 therein for storing wash water. Furthermore, the drive 40 may include a reservoir cover 42 separating the reservoir 41 from the tub 20. Additionally, the drive 40 may include a water supply 43 that supplies wash water from an external source to the reservoir 41. Furthermore, the drive 40 may include a drain 44 that drains the wash water from the reservoir 41 to the outside. Additionally, the drive 40 may include a wash pump 45 and a supply flow path 46 that supplies the wash water from the reservoir 41 to a spray nozzle.

[0094] The tank cover 42 can be set on top of the tank 41 and can be used to spatially separate the bucket 20 and the tank 41 from each other.

[0095] In addition, the tank cover 42 may have a plurality of collection holes defined therein for collecting washing water sprayed into the washing space 21 by the sprayer into the tank 41.

[0096] In other words, the washing water sprayed from the sprayer toward the dishes can drop to the bottom of the washing space 21 and be collected back into the storage tank 41 through the storage tank cover 42.

[0097] The washing pump 45 can be installed on one side of the storage tank 41 and can be used to pressurize the washing water and supply the pressurized washing water to the sprayer.

[0098] One end of the washing pump 45 can be connected to the storage tank 41, and the other end can be connected to the supply flow path 46.

[0099] The washing pump 45 may be equipped with an impeller 451 and a motor 453. When power is supplied to the motor 453, the impeller 451 can rotate, and thus the washing water in the reservoir 41 can be pressurized and then supplied to the sprayer through the supply flow path 46.

[0100] Although not shown, a wash water heater may be provided in the wash pump 45 and configured to heat the wash water supplied to the tub 20 during a wash cycle or a heated rinse cycle.

[0101] In one example, supply path 46 can be used to selectively supply wash water from wash pump 45 to spray nozzles.

[0102] For example, supply flow path 46 may include a first supply flow path 461 connected to the lower spray arm 61 and a second supply flow path 463 connected to the upper spray arm 62 and the top nozzle 63.

[0103] The supply flow path 46 can be configured to selectively open / close the supply flow path switching valve 465 of the supply flow paths 461 and 463.

[0104] In this regard, the supply flow path switching valve 465 can be controlled to open the supply flow paths 461 and 463 sequentially or simultaneously.

[0105] In one example, the sprayer may be configured to spray washing water onto the tableware stored in the dish rack assembly 50.

[0106] More specifically, the sprayer may include a lower spray arm 61 located below the tub 20 to spray wash water onto the lower dish rack 51.

[0107] In addition, the water sprayer may include an upper spray arm 62 located between the lower dish rack 51 and the upper dish rack 52 to spray washing water onto the lower dish rack 51 and the upper dish rack 52.

[0108] In addition, the sprayer may include a top nozzle 63 located on the top of the tub 20 to spray washing water onto the top dish rack 53 or the upper dish rack 52.

[0109] Specifically, the lower spray arm 61 and the upper spray arm 62 can be rotatably arranged in the washing space 21 of the tub 20, and can spray washing water toward the dishes of the dish rack assembly 50 while rotating.

[0110] The lower spray arm 61 can be rotatably supported on top of the reservoir cover 42 so as to spray washing water toward the lower dish rack 51 while rotating and positioned below the lower dish rack 51.

[0111] In addition, the upper spray arm 62 can be rotatably supported by the spray arm holder 467 so as to spray washing water onto the dishes while rotating and positioned between the lower dish rack 51 and the upper dish rack 52.

[0112] In one example, although not shown, in order to improve washing efficiency, an additional device may be provided at the lower wall 25 of the tub 20 for redirecting the washing water ejected from the lower spray arm 61 in an upward direction (redirecting in the U direction).

[0113] The detailed configuration of the water sprinkler is known in the art. Therefore, a description of the specific configuration of the water sprinkler is omitted below.

[0114] A dish rack assembly 50 for storing tableware can be installed in the washing space 21.

[0115] The dish rack assembly 50 can be configured to extend from or retract into the interior space of the bucket 20 through the open front surface of the bucket 20.

[0116] For example, in Figure 2 The image shows one embodiment in which the bowl rack assembly 50 is configured to include a lower bowl rack 51 located at the bottom of the bucket 20 to accommodate relatively large tableware therein, an upper bowl rack 52 located at the top of the lower bowl rack 51 to accommodate medium-sized tableware therein, and a top bowl rack 53 located at the top of the bucket 20 and capable of storing small tableware therein, etc.

[0117] The following description describes an example of a dishwasher 1 including a dish rack assembly 50 with three dish racks as shown in the figure. However, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0118] Each of the lower bowl rack 51, the upper bowl rack 52, and the top bowl rack 53 can be configured to extend from or retract into the interior space of the bucket 20 through the open front surface of the bucket 20.

[0119] For this purpose, guide rails 54 can be respectively disposed on two opposing inner surfaces 26 and 27 constituting the inner surface of the barrel 20. As will be described below, as an example, guide rails 54 may include an upper rail 542, a lower rail 541, and a top rail 543.

[0120] Wheels or rollers may be provided on the bottom of each of the lower dish rack 51, upper dish rack 52, and top dish rack 53. The user can extend the lower dish rack 51, upper dish rack 52, and top dish rack 53 from the interior space of the tub 20 through the opening front surface of the tub 20 and place the tableware on them or easily remove the washed tableware from the tub 20.

[0121] The guide rail 54 can be implemented as a simple track-type fixed guide rail for guiding the extension or retraction of the bowl rack assembly 50, or it can be implemented as a telescopic guide rail capable of guiding the extension or retraction of the bowl rack assembly 50 and simultaneously increasing its extension distance as the bowl rack assembly 50 extends further from the interior space of the bucket.

[0122] In one example, as described above, door 30 is configured to open / close the front surface of barrel 20.

[0123] A hinge (not shown) may be located at the bottom of the front surface of the opening, and the door 30 pivots about the hinge to open or close the barrel 20. As an example, the door 30 may pivot about the hinge as a pivot axis in a top-to-bottom manner to open the barrel 20.

[0124] In this respect, the handle 31 for opening the door 30 and the control panel 32 for controlling the operation of the dishwasher 1 can be provided on the outer surface of the door 30.

[0125] As shown in the figure, the control panel 32 may include a display 33, which visually displays information such as the current operating status of the dishwasher 1.

[0126] In addition, the control panel 32 may include a button unit 34, which includes a selection button for inputting user process selection operations and a power button for inputting operations to turn the dishwasher on and off.

[0127] In one example, the rear panel that forms the inner surface of the door 30 can form a surface of the bucket 20 when the door 30 is closed, and can form the mounting surface of the lower bowl rack 51 that supports the bowl rack assembly 50 when the door 30 is fully open.

[0128] Therefore, when the door 30 is fully opened downwards, the rear panel of the door 30 can form a horizontal plane extending in the same direction as the guide rail 54 that guides the displacement of the lower bowl rack 51.

[0129] In one example, although not shown, a detergent supply device for automatically supplying detergent to the interior of the drum 20 may be further provided on the rear panel that forms the inner surface of the door 30.

[0130] Furthermore, the door position sensor 36 can be disposed on the outer top surface of the barrel 20 and can be configured to detect whether the door 30 is in a closed or open state. For example, the door position sensor 36 may include a door position sensor S_d or a latch sensor that detects the position of a latch (not shown).

[0131] In one example, a dry air supply device 80 may be located below the tub 20 and may be configured to generate high-temperature or low-temperature dry air and supply it to the washing space 21 inside the tub 20.

[0132] As shown in the figure, the dry air supply device 80 can be configured to include a filter element 883 for filtering external air, a blower fan 825 for generating a dry air flow, a heater 84 for heating the dry air flow, and an airflow guide 83 disposed inside the barrel 20 to guide the dry air flow.

[0133] like Figure 3 As shown, the dry air supply hole 254 can be defined in the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20, so that the high-temperature dry air generated by the dry air supply device 80 can be guided into the interior of the barrel 20 through the dry air supply hole.

[0134] Therefore, during the drying cycle S5, high-temperature or low-temperature drying air can be supplied from the drying air supply device 80 to the inside of the drum 20, which significantly improves the drying efficiency and sterilization effect of tableware compared to conventional dishwashers.

[0135] In one example, the dishwasher can be configured such that a portion of the airflow supplied to the interior of the tub 20 and moistened during dish drying can be exhausted to the outside, while the remainder can be drawn into the drying air supply unit 80. The exhaust of the airflow can be achieved via a partial opening of the door 30 or via a separate air exhaust device (not shown).

[0136] An air intake duct 81 for collecting humid air from the barrel 20 can be provided on the outer surface of the left wall 26 or the right wall 27 of the barrel 20.

[0137] In one example, the base 90 can provide space to accommodate components of the dishwasher 1, such as the storage tank 41.

[0138] For this purpose, the base 90 may include a front wall, a rear wall, a left wall, and a right wall on the outer boundary surface that defines the receiving space.

[0139] In addition, the barrel 20 can be directly or indirectly supported by the front wall, rear wall, left wall and right wall of the base 90.

[0140] In one example, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may further include a heat pump system as a means for heating the washing water to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0141] The heat pump system can be installed together with the aforementioned wash water heater, or it can be installed separately without a wash water heater.

[0142] As will be described later, the heat pump system disposed in the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure can be disposed in a modular manner in the interior space of the base 90.

[0143] In addition, the heat pump system can be configured to be modularized into a single module, which can be completely and once housed in the base 90 and removed from the base 90.

[0144] In view of this configuration, the heat pump system set in the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure is referred to as heat pump module 100.

[0145] The following reference Figure 4 The detailed configuration of the heat pump module 100 is described below.

[0146] [General Configuration of Heat Pump Unit]

[0147] The following is for reference Figure 4 The detailed configuration of the heat pump module 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0148] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the heat pump module 100.

[0149] refer to Figure 4 The heat pump module 100 may include a compressor 110, a condenser 120, an expansion valve 140, and an evaporator 130.

[0150] The compressor 110, condenser 120, expansion valve 140 and evaporator 130 can be sequentially connected to each other via refrigerant line 150, and refrigerant line 150 provides a refrigerant flow path through which refrigerant can flow.

[0151] As an example, the refrigerant line 150 may include a first line 151 connecting the compressor 110 and the condenser 120 to each other, a second line 152 connecting the condenser 120 and the expansion valve 140 to each other, a third line 153 connecting the expansion valve 140 and the evaporator 130 to each other, and a fourth line 154 connecting the evaporator 130 and the compressor 110 to each other.

[0152] The refrigerant can be used as a working fluid that absorbs or releases heat while circulating sequentially through the compressor 110, condenser 120, expansion valve 140 and evaporator 130, causing its phase to change from liquid to gas or from gas to liquid.

[0153] The compressor 110 is used to compress the refrigerant and discharge it under high temperature and high pressure. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 110 can be guided into the condenser 120 through the first pipe 151.

[0154] The refrigerant can radiate heat QH as it flows through the condenser 120. The heat discharged from the condenser 120 can be used to heat the washing water to be supplied to the tank 20.

[0155] Therefore, separate flow paths can be provided in the condenser 120 for the refrigerant and the washing water. The refrigerant can dissipate heat, causing the phase to change from gaseous to liquid, and thus the refrigerant can exchange heat with the washing water as it flows through the condenser 120.

[0156] In this respect, the refrigerant flowing through the condenser 120 can be a mixture of liquid and gas with very low gas content, or it can be a subcooled liquid.

[0157] The refrigerant discharged from the condenser 120 can expand as it flows through the expansion valve 140. Due to the expansion of the refrigerant, its temperature may decrease, thus the refrigerant may become a mixture of gas and liquid.

[0158] The refrigerant discharged from the expansion valve 140 is guided into the evaporator 130 through the third pipe 153, and while flowing through the evaporator 130, it exchanges heat with the air in the housing space of the base 90 to absorb heat from the air, causing the refrigerant to evaporate and thereby increasing the gas content in the refrigerant.

[0159] With the refrigerant already flowing out of the evaporator 130, the refrigerant can become a mixture of gas and liquid with very low content.

[0160] The refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 130 can be guided back into the compressor 110 through the fourth pipe 154, where it can be compressed, converting the refrigerant into a high-temperature and high-pressure gas. Meanwhile, to prevent liquid refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 130 from being guided into the compressor, the refrigerant that has flowed through the fourth pipe 154 can flow through the gas-liquid separator 113 before being guided into the compressor 110.

[0161] In this sequence, the refrigerant circulates through the heat pump module 100 to undergo a phase change, so that the refrigerant can absorb heat in the evaporator 130 and release heat in the condenser 120.

[0162] In one example, to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the refrigerant within the evaporator 130, it is preferable to allow a large amount of air to flow toward the evaporator 130. For this purpose, the heat pump module 100 may also include a fan module 180 for blowing air toward the evaporator 130 to generate an airflow.

[0163] As described below, the blower module 180 may include a blower fan 181 and a blower motor 182, the blower fan 181 being configured to accelerate air to generate an airflow, and the blower motor 182 being configured to generate a rotational driving force to rotate the blower fan 181.

[0164] Additionally, as described later, the blower fan 181 and blower motor 182 can be housed together with the evaporator 130 in a heat exchange conduit 170, which forms a passage for the airflow to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator 130.

[0165] In one example, the heat pump module 100 of the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may be configured to be directly installed in the base 90, or modularized as a single module separate from the base 90, and the single module may be completely and once installed in the receiving space of the base 90 and completely and once removed from the receiving space of the base 90 to the outside.

[0166] exist Figure 5 The accompanying drawings show a configuration in which the heat pump module 100 is modularized separately from the base 90 into a single module, and the single module is completely and once installed in the housing space of the base 90 and completely and once removed from the housing space of the base 90 to the outside.

[0167] The present disclosure is described below based on the configuration illustrated in the figures. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0168] In order to modularize the heat pump module 100 separately from the base 90 into a single module, and to completely and once install the single module in the receiving space of the base 90 and completely and once remove it from the receiving space of the base 90 to the outside, the heat pump module 100 may include a module base 160 on which at least a compressor 110, a condenser 120, an evaporator 130 and an expansion valve 140 are commonly mounted.

[0169] The compressor 110, condenser 120, evaporator 130 and expansion valve 140 constituting the heat pump module 100 can be installed in the base 90 in a state where they are directly fastened to and supported by the module base 160.

[0170] As described below, the module base 160 can be configured to contact the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90, and can be mounted on the base 90 in a manner that allows it to be directly supported on the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0171] Therefore, the compressor 110, condenser 120, evaporator 130 and expansion valve 140 constituting the heat pump module 100 can be directly installed on the module base 160 provided in the base 90, and thus can be indirectly installed in the receiving space of the base 90 and indirectly supported thereon.

[0172] In one example, the heat pump module 100 of the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may be configured to be fully and once inserted into and withdrawn from the base 90 through an open side surface of the base 90, so as to be fully and once installed in the receiving space of the base 90 and completely and once removed from the receiving space of the base 90 to the outside.

[0173] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the water jacket 71 can be attached to the outer surface of the right wall 27 of the exemplary tub 20. Washing water to be supplied to the washing space of the tub 20 during washing and rinsing of dishes can be stored in the water jacket 71.

[0174] To ensure sufficient water storage capacity of the water jacket 71, the lower end of the water jacket 71 can extend inward beyond the lower end of the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20, reaching the area of ​​the right side surface 95 of the base 90.

[0175] In this regard, a barrel hole 118 can be formed in the water jacket 71 to connect the internal space of the water jacket with the washing space 21 of the barrel 20.

[0176] The water jacket connecting hole 272 can be formed to pass through the right wall 27 of the barrel 20 in a manner corresponding to the barrel hole 118.

[0177] To minimize the inflow of washing water and prevent the inflow of foreign objects, a grille cap 118a with a shape similar to that of the grille cap 813 of the air inlet 271 can be attached to the tub hole 118.

[0178] Additionally, a water softener device 72 for softening the washing water to be supplied to the storage tank 41 can be installed adjacent to the water jacket 71 and located below the lower wall 25 of the tank 20.

[0179] In addition, as described above, the dry air supply device 80 can be disposed below the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20 to heat the air discharged from the barrel 20 and to resupply the heated air to the barrel 20 during the drying cycle.

[0180] Additionally, as shown in the figure, the dry air supply device 80 may include an air intake duct 81 for drawing air discharged from the tank 20.

[0181] Figure 3 An example configuration is shown where the air intake pipe 81 and the water jacket 71 are arranged side by side, with the air intake pipe 81 located on the outer surface of the right wall 27 of the barrel 20.

[0182] Therefore, the air inlet 271 can be formed to pass through the right wall 27 of the barrel 20, and the grille cap 8113 connected to the inlet of the air intake pipe 81 can be fixed to the air inlet 271.

[0183] Considering the positional constraints of the dry air supply device 80, its air inlet duct 81, water jacket 71, and water softener device 72 as described above, the heat pump module 100 is preferably configured to extend from or retract into the interior space of the base 90 through an opening area positioned to minimize interference between the heat pump module 100 and the dry air supply device 80, water jacket 71, and water softener device 72. For this purpose, the heat pump module 100 may be configured to extend from or retract into the receiving space of the base through the left wall 94 of the opening in the base 90.

[0184] However, this is merely an example. When the dry air supply device 80, the air inlet duct 81 of the dry air supply device 80, the water jacket 71, and the water softener device 72 are located near the right wall 27 of the tank 20 and the right side surface 95 of the base 90 and thus positioned on the left side around the center of the storage tank 41, the heat pump module 100 can be configured to extend from the base 90 and retract into the base 90 through the opening on the right side surface 95 of the base 90.

[0185] In the following description, this disclosure will be illustrated by way of example based on an embodiment in which the heat pump module 100 is configured to extend from and retract into the base through the opening left wall 94 of the base 90. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0186] [Modular structure of heat pump module]

[0187] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 5 and Figure 6 A detailed description is provided of example locations of the heat pump module 100 and example arrangements of its components according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0188] The heat pump module 100 according to this disclosure may include a compressor 110, which compresses the refrigerant and discharges the refrigerant under high temperature and high pressure.

[0189] As shown in the figure, the compressor 110 constituting the heat pump module 100 can be implemented as a motor-integrated electric compressor, wherein the compression unit for compressing the gaseous refrigerant and the motor for generating the rotary drive force to be supplied to the compression unit are integrated with each other.

[0190] In this regard, considering the space utilization of the base 90, it is necessary to minimize the horizontal area occupied by the compressor 110 on the module base 160.

[0191] Therefore, the compressor 110 can be mounted on the module base 160 in a standing position with its axis of rotation extending in the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0192] The fastening tab 112, which is provided in the shape of a flange, can be provided at the lower end of the compressor body 111 of the compressor 110, so that the compressor body can be installed on the module base 160 and fixed to the module base 160 in a standing state.

[0193] In the illustrated embodiment, a total of three fastening tabs 112 are provided, and a configuration in which the fastening tabs 112 are arranged spaced apart from each other at equal intervals is shown. However, this is merely an example, and the number of fastening tabs 112 can be set to vary depending on the shape and position of the compressor 110.

[0194] Fastening boss ( Figure 8 and Figure 9 164) can be integrally formed with and disposed on the substrate 161 of the module base 160, and positioned in a manner corresponding to the fastening tab 112 of the compressor 110.

[0195] The fastening tab 112 of the compressor 110 can be securely fastened to the fastening boss 164 of the base plate 161 by means of a fastening device such as a bolt.

[0196] To reduce vibration or noise generated by the compressor 110, a buffer with predetermined elasticity can be provided between the fastening tab 112 and the fastening boss.

[0197] In one example, compressor 110 may be positioned between main control panel 210 and evaporator 130 in a left-right (Le-Ri) direction.

[0198] More specifically, the compressor 110 may be disposed in the space between the blower module 180 and the main control panel 210, which are housed in the heat exchange pipe 170, and positioned as close as possible to the air inlet 170a of the heat exchange pipe 170.

[0199] Therefore, the compressor 110 can be exposed to the airflow flowing into the inlet 170a of the heat exchange duct 170, and thus the cooling effect of the compressor 110 can be improved. In addition, when the airflow heated on and along the compressor 110 is guided into the heat exchange duct 170, the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator 130 can be further improved compared with the prior art.

[0200] In this regard, in order to increase the exposed area of ​​the compressor for heat exchange airflow F_in, at least a portion of the compressor 110 may protrude in the forward direction in the front-to-back direction (FR direction) beyond the air inlet 170a of the heat exchange duct 170.

[0201] More specifically, the volume of the portion of the compressor 110 that protrudes in the forward direction beyond the air inlet 170a of the heat exchange pipe 170 can be set to be greater than the volume of the portion of the compressor 110 that protrudes in the rearward direction beyond the air inlet 170a of the heat exchange pipe 170.

[0202] Furthermore, as described later, the dishwasher may also include an air guide 173 as a unit for guiding the flow direction of airflow F_in to increase the proportion of airflow F_in flowing on and along the compressor 110 relative to the total amount of airflow F_in flowing into the heat exchange duct 170.

[0203] In addition, the compressor 110 needs to be positioned to minimize interference between the compressor and the storage tank 41, and to minimize the impact of leakage from the storage tank 41 and the washing pump 45 on the compressor.

[0204] Therefore, such as Figure 5 As shown, the compressor 110 can be located at the rear of the storage tank 41 and the washing pump 45.

[0205] Additionally, the compressor 110 can be configured not to overlap with the storage tank 41 and the washing pump 45 in the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0206] In one example, the heat pump module 100 may include a condenser 120 that performs heat exchange between the refrigerant and the wash water.

[0207] As an example, the condenser 120 constituting the heat pump module 100 can be constructed in the form of a dual-tube system, wherein the flow path for the washing water and the flow path for the refrigerant are formed together.

[0208] The condenser 120 can be configured to have a cylindrical shape, so that the flow paths for the washing water and the refrigerant can be effectively formed therein.

[0209] That is, the cylindrical condenser 120 can be formed to have a width much larger than its diameter in the direction of extension of the central axis, thereby ensuring that the flow path of the washing water and the flow path of the refrigerant along the direction of extension of the central axis are as long as possible.

[0210] However, in order to increase the heating capacity of the washing water or the heat exchange capacity with the washing water, it is necessary to ensure that the volume of the condenser 120 is greater than or equal to the predetermined level.

[0211] However, the condenser 120 can be connected to the module base 160 and oriented such that the left-right direction (UD direction) is the longitudinal direction of the condenser, so that the condenser can be effectively and efficiently installed in the height-restricted housing space of the base 90 in the vertical direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0212] In one example, the condenser 120, which has a cylindrical shape, can be composed of segments arranged along the longitudinal direction.

[0213] More specifically, the condenser 120, which is composed of a split body, may include a first body 121 in which an inlet pipe 123 for guiding heated washing water is formed.

[0214] As shown by way of example, the water inlet pipe 123 can be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the first body 121 and integrally formed therewith.

[0215] Additionally, the condenser 120, which is composed of a split body, may include a second body 122 having an outlet pipe 124 for discharging heated washing water.

[0216] As shown by way of example, the water outlet pipe 124 can be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the second body 122 and integrally formed therewith.

[0217] Although not shown, the inlet pipe 123 and the outlet pipe 124 may be connected to the washing water pipe 190 respectively. The washing water pipe 190 may include a first washing water pipe 191 and a second washing water pipe 192.

[0218] As an example, one end of the first washing water pipe 191 can be connected to the water inlet pipe 123 of the first body 121.

[0219] The other end of the first washing water pipe 191 can be connected to the inlet or outlet of the aforementioned washing pump 45.

[0220] That is, the washing water before or after being pressurized by the washing pump 45 can be guided to the condenser 120 through the other end of the first washing water pipe 191.

[0221] The following describes the configuration in which the other end of the first washing water pipe 191 is connected to the outlet of the washing pump 45, i.e., the condenser 120 is located downstream of the washing pump 45 in the direction of washing water flow and is connected to the washing pump. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0222] Since the condenser 120 is located downstream of and connected to the washing pump 45, the washing water pressurized by the washing pump can be guided through the first washing water pipe 191 to the inlet pipe 123 of the first body 121.

[0223] Alternatively, for example, one end of the second washing water pipe 192 can be connected to the water outlet pipe 124 of the second body 122.

[0224] The other end of the second washing water pipe 192 can be connected to the aforementioned supply flow switching valve 465.

[0225] Therefore, the heated washing water can be delivered to the sprayer through the second washing water pipe 192 and then through the supply flow switching valve 465.

[0226] In one example, each of the first wash water pipe 191 and the second wash water pipe 192 may include a material and shape selected such that each of the first wash water pipe 191 and the second wash water pipe 192 may extend in the longitudinal direction.

[0227] For this purpose, each of the first washing water pipe 191 and the second washing water pipe 192 may be made of a material that can be stretched along the longitudinal direction.

[0228] Alternatively, the first washing water pipe 191 and the second washing water pipe 192 may be formed into a corrugated or other telescopic shape.

[0229] Therefore, the process of pre-removing the first wash water pipe 191 and the second wash water pipe 192 from the inlet pipe 123 and outlet pipe 124 of the condenser 120 during the removal and disassembly of the heat pump module 100 from the base 90 can be omitted.

[0230] In one example, the outlet pipe 124 and the inlet pipe 123 of the condenser 120 are respectively positioned at a maximum distance from each other along the longitudinal direction of the condenser 120, which can improve the heating efficiency of the washing water or the heat exchange efficiency with the washing water.

[0231] Therefore, based on the illustrated configuration, the water inlet pipe 123 of the condenser 120 can be positioned as close as possible to the front end of the first main body 121. Additionally, the water outlet pipe 124 of the condenser 120 can be positioned as close as possible to the rear end of the second main body 122.

[0232] In one example, the condenser refrigerant tubes may be housed in a first body 121 and a second body 122 of the condenser 120, wherein the gaseous refrigerant is converted into a liquid refrigerant.

[0233] As an example, the condenser refrigerant line can be guided into the condenser 120 through the front end of the first body 121.

[0234] To improve the heating efficiency of the washing water or the heat exchange efficiency with the washing water, the condenser refrigerant tubes guided into the condenser 120 can be formed into a multi-layer structure with the tubes bent multiple times or a coil structure with the tubes wound multiple times.

[0235] In one example, as shown, the condenser 120 may be positioned in the front of the reservoir 41 and the washing pump 45 in the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0236] More specifically, the condenser 120 constituting the heat pump module 100 can be disposed between the storage tank 41 and the front wall 92 of the base 90.

[0237] In this respect, the condenser 120 can be positioned such that the condenser 120 does not have a portion protruding forward from the front wall 92 of the base 90, so that the condenser 120 does not interfere with the lower frame (not shown) located in front of the front wall 92 of the base 90.

[0238] When the condenser 120 is positioned in such a location, the straight-line distance from the inlet pipe 123 and outlet pipe 124 of the condenser 120 to the inlet and outlet of the storage tank 41 or the washing pump 45 can be minimized.

[0239] Therefore, the length of the first washing water pipe 191 connected to the inlet pipe 123 of the condenser 120 and the length of the second washing water pipe 192 connected to the outlet pipe 124 of the condenser 120 can be minimized.

[0240] In addition, the space occupied by the first washing water pipe 191 and the second washing water pipe 192 in the interior space of the base 90 can be minimized, thereby improving the space utilization rate of the base 90's accommodating space.

[0241] Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the condenser extends along the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction), which is its longitudinal direction, so that the length of the condenser 120 in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) can be ensured to be greater. Therefore, the heat exchange capacity of the condenser 120 can be ensured.

[0242] Furthermore, the condenser 120 can be positioned at the maximum distance from the evaporator 130 in the front-rear direction (FR direction). Therefore, the influence of the airflow F_in, which exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator 130, on the condenser 120 can be minimized.

[0243] In one example, the heat pump module 100 may include an evaporator 130, in which refrigerant that has flowed through the condenser 120 is directed to the evaporator 130, and in the evaporator 130 the liquid refrigerant is phase-converted into a gaseous refrigerant.

[0244] As described above, the evaporator 130 is configured such that the refrigerant flowing through it undergoes a phase change while exchanging heat with an airflow F_in generated from the air in the housing space of the base 90.

[0245] Therefore, similar to the refrigerant tubes housed in the condenser, the evaporator 130 may include evaporator refrigerant tubes 131 formed in a multi-row or multi-layer structure with the tubes bent multiple times. This maximizes the heat exchange area between the refrigerant and the airflow that will exchange heat with the refrigerant. As an example, as described later, an evaporator 130 including evaporator refrigerant tubes 131 may be applied, which may be bent multiple times to have a three-row / four-layer structure.

[0246] In one example, the evaporator refrigerant tube of evaporator 130 may be configured such that the refrigerant flowing therein may exchange heat with the internal air of the housing space of base 90, or with external air guided into base 90 from the outside.

[0247] Figure 5 The accompanying drawings illustrate by way of example an embodiment in which the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 is configured such that the refrigerant flowing therein exchanges heat with the internal air of the housing space of the base 90.

[0248] This disclosure is based on a configuration in which the internal air in the housing space of the base 90 exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and heat exchange fins 132 of the evaporator 130 and is then discharged to the outside. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0249] In one example, when the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and heat exchange fins 132 of the evaporator 130 exchange heat with the internal air of the base 90, a flow path or channel needs to be formed so that the heat-exchanged air can be discharged to the outside.

[0250] In this regard, the internal air should flow through the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 and out of the base 90 along the shortest path. For this purpose, the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 can be located as close as possible to the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0251] In one example, to maximize the heat exchange efficiency with the internal air of the base 90, the evaporator refrigerant tube of the evaporator 130 can be housed in the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 that constitutes the heat exchange flow path or heat exchange channel.

[0252] Therefore, with the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and heat exchange fins 132 housed in the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170, the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 can be configured to be as close as possible to the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0253] Preferably, the heat exchange pipe 170 can be disposed on the module base 160, so that the rear surface of the pipe body 171 is in maximum close contact with the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0254] In one example, the air outlet 934 may be provided in the form of a grille in the rear wall 93 of the base 90 in such a way that the duct body 171 is in maximum close contact with the rear wall 93 of the base 90. Therefore, the airflow F_out, which has undergone heat exchange while flowing through the duct body 171, can pass through the air outlet 934 and can be smoothly discharged from the base 90 to the outside.

[0255] In one example, the blower module 180 may be located inside the duct body 171 to accelerate the internal air in the base 90 to generate an airflow F_in for heat exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 of the evaporator 130.

[0256] In this respect, the blower module 180 can be configured to include only a single blower fan 181 and a single blower motor 182. This minimizes the increase in the volume of the heat exchange pipe 170 and improves the space utilization of the base 90.

[0257] Will be referenced later Figures 7 to 10 The detailed configuration of the heat exchange pipe 170, which houses the evaporator 130 and the blower module 180, is described.

[0258] In one example, the heat pump module 100 may include an expansion valve 140 disposed between the second pipe 152 and the third pipe 153.

[0259] In the illustrated embodiment, the expansion valve 140 may be positioned in front of the compressor 110, so that its interference with the compressor 110 and condenser 120 can be minimized.

[0260] In one example, the heat pump module 100 may include a module base 160 on which the compressor 110, condenser 120, evaporator 130 and refrigerant pipe 150, as described above, are mounted and supported.

[0261] More specifically, as shown in the figure, the module base 160 may include a plate-shaped substrate 161.

[0262] The compressor 110, condenser 120 and evaporator 130 can be fixed together to the upper surface of the substrate 161, and the compressor 110, condenser 120 and evaporator 130 can be supported together on it.

[0263] As described above, a plurality of fastening bosses 164 may be formed on and integrally formed on the upper surface of the substrate 161, such that the compressor 110, the condenser 120 and the evaporator 130 may be individually fastened to the substrate and supported on the substrate.

[0264] However, considering the accommodating space of the base 90, which is height-restricted in the vertical direction (UD direction), the thickness of the substrate 161 can be set to be approximately constant over its entire area.

[0265] However, the heat pump module 100 is configured to extend or retract completely and once from the base 90 in the front-rear direction (FR direction) while the compressor 110, condenser 120, evaporator 130, etc. are all fixed to the module base 160.

[0266] Therefore, in order to prevent damage during the process of the heat pump module extending from and retracting into the base, and to ensure its predetermined rigidity, reinforcing ribs 1612 extending in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) and the front-back direction (FR direction) can be integrally formed with and disposed on the upper or lower surface of the substrate 161.

[0267] In one example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the shape of the module base 160 can be determined by taking into account the position and arrangement direction of the compressor 110, condenser 120 and evaporator 130.

[0268] Furthermore, the shape of the module base 160 can be determined to have a shape that allows it to spatially avoid the storage tank 41 and washing pump 45 disposed in the base 90.

[0269] Given this shape, in the top view of the dishwasher, the substrate 161 of the module base 160 can, for example, have a shape obtained by rotating the U-shape 90 degrees counterclockwise.

[0270] In this respect, the trailing edge of the substrate 161 can extend linearly along the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0271] In addition, the left edge of the substrate can extend linearly along the left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0272] In one example, similar to existing technology, the main control panel 210 can be mounted on the left wall 94 of the base 90 so that it can be detachably attached to it.

[0273] The main control panel 210 controls the operation of electrical / electronic components such as the washing pump 45, compressor 110, and blower motor 182 by controlling the power supply to these components.

[0274] Therefore, in order to minimize the impact of water leakage from the water jacket 71, water softener device 72, storage tank 41 and washing pump 45 on the main control panel 210, the main control panel 210 can be set in a position as far away from it as possible in a manner similar to the prior art, that is, set on the left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0275] Therefore, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the main control panel 210 can be set along the edge of the left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0276] Additionally, the main control panel 210 can be configured to cover the opening on the left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0277] In addition, in order to minimize damage to the main control panel 210 caused by water leakage, the main control panel 210 may be located at a position spaced apart from the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90 in the upward direction (U direction).

[0278] However, as described above, the heat pump module 100 of this disclosure is configured to extend from and retract into the base 90 via the left wall 94 of the base 90, on which the main control panel 210 is mounted.

[0279] That is, the heat pump module 100 of this disclosure can be configured to extend from the base 90 while moving horizontally in the left direction (Le direction), and retract into the base 90 while moving horizontally in the right direction (Ri direction).

[0280] Therefore, considering that the main control panel 210 is located at a position that interferes with the heat pump module 100 extending from or retracting into the base 90, the main control panel 210 may be configured to be at least partially mounted on and at least partially supported on the module base 160.

[0281] Figure 5 and Figure 6 An exemplary configuration is shown in which the main control panel 210 is entirely supported on the module base 160.

[0282] A pair of mounting ribs 162, serving as a means of supporting and securing the main control panel 210, can be provided on the module base 160.

[0283] The main control panel 210 can be fastened to a pair of mounting ribs 162 using fasteners such as bolts (not shown).

[0284] Although not shown, the main control panel 210 can be fastened to the left wall 94 of the base 90 at a location different from the mounting rib 162 using separate bolts or the like.

[0285] Additionally, a slot connecting to the lower end of the main control panel 210 can be formed between a pair of mounting ribs 162 and extend elongated along the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0286] In one example, when the main control panel 210 is configured to be at least partially supported on the module base 160, the area where the main control panel 210 is mounted can be defined in the base plate 161.

[0287] like Figure 6 As shown, the area where the main control panel 210 is installed can be limited to the left side of the area of ​​the component on the base plate 161 where the heat pump module 100 is installed.

[0288] Therefore, the substrate 161 can be divided into a first region A1 for mounting the components of the heat pump module 100 and a second region A2 for mounting the main control panel 210.

[0289] As shown in the figure, the second region A2 can be defined at the left edge of the substrate 161 and extend along the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0290] Additionally, the second region A2 may have a width in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) corresponding to the thickness of the main control panel 210 in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0291] In one example, the lower surface of the substrate 161 of the module base 160 can be integrally placed on the base 90 while in contact with the surface of the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0292] The mounting surface that is connected to the substrate 161 in a state of surface contact can be defined as the upper surface of the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0293] The mounting surface of the base 90 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the substrate 161 of the module base 160 and an area corresponding to the area size of the substrate 161 of the module base 160.

[0294] In one example, a guide rib 911 protruding from the bottom surface portion 91 in the upward direction (U direction) can be integrally formed with the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90 and disposed on the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0295] like Figure 5 As shown, the guide rib 911 can extend along the outer edge of the substrate 161 of the module base 160.

[0296] Furthermore, the guide rib 911 can be formed in a barrier shape to have a shape corresponding to the outer edge of the substrate 161.

[0297] Therefore, the heat pump module 100 can be effectively guided into the correct position by the guide ribs 911 of the base 90, and the heat pump module 100 can be effectively prevented from being removed from the correct position.

[0298] Furthermore, when the heat pump module 100 is moved horizontally in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) to be installed in and removed from the base, the direction of movement of the heat pump module 100 can be effectively guided by the guide ribs 911 of the base 90.

[0299] [Detailed configuration of heat exchange piping]

[0300] The following is for reference Figures 7 to 10 The detailed configuration of the heat exchange pipe 170 constituting the heat pump module 100 according to the present disclosure, and the detailed configuration of the air outlet 934 that discharges the airflow F_out that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the heat exchange pipe 170 will be described.

[0301] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 According to this disclosure, the heat exchange pipe 170 of the heat pump module 100 may include a pipe body 171, which houses the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the blower module 180.

[0302] The main body of the pipe 171 is used to accommodate the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and heat exchange fins 132 that constitute the evaporator 130.

[0303] Therefore, the main body of the pipe 171 may include a first pipe section 1711, which houses the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fins 132.

[0304] As shown in the figure, considering the shape of the evaporator 130 with the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) as the longitudinal direction and the front-back direction (FR direction) as the thickness direction, the first pipe section 1711 can be constructed as a hollow hexahedral box with the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) as the longitudinal direction and the front-back direction (FR direction) as the thickness direction.

[0305] Additionally, the main body of the duct 171 may include a second duct section 1712 therein, which houses the blower module 180.

[0306] As described above, the blower module 180 may include only a single blower fan 181 and a single blower motor 182.

[0307] Due to the limitation of the vertical (UD) dimension of the area where the blower module 180 is located, the blower fan 181 constituting the blower module 180 can be configured to have a diameter smaller than the width of the evaporator 130 in the horizontal (Le-Ri) direction.

[0308] Accordingly, the width of the second pipe section 1712 in the left-right direction (Li-Ri direction) may be smaller than the width of the first pipe section 1711 in the left-right direction (Li-Ri direction).

[0309] In other words, the vertical cross-sectional area of ​​the second pipe section 1712 can be set to be smaller than the vertical cross-sectional area of ​​the first pipe section 1711.

[0310] Therefore, when the second pipe section 1712 is directly connected to the first pipe section 1711, the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel through which the gas flow F_in to be heat exchanged changes drastically, raising concerns that the flow resistance and flow loss may be large due to the generation of eddies or turbulence.

[0311] Therefore, a third pipe section 1713 with a gradually increasing vertical cross-sectional area can be provided between the first pipe section 1711 and the second pipe section 1712.

[0312] More specifically, taking into account the flow direction of the airflow F_in for heat exchange, the third duct section 1713 may have a shape that gradually increases in cross-sectional area while extending from the front to the rear.

[0313] As shown in the figure, the rear end of the third pipe section 1713 can be integrally formed with and connected to the first pipe section 1711, and the front end of the third pipe section 1713 can be integrally formed with and connected to the second pipe section 1712.

[0314] In one example, heat exchange conduit 170 is used to form a channel through which airflow F_in, which is to exchange heat with the refrigerant in evaporator 130, flows.

[0315] Therefore, each of the first pipe section 1711, the second pipe section 1712, and the third pipe section 1713 constituting the heat exchange pipe 170 can be configured to have a hollow shape.

[0316] The air inlet 170a can be formed to pass through the front end surface of the second duct section 1712, and the airflow F_in that is to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator 130 is guided in the air inlet 170a.

[0317] The exhaust port 170b can be formed to pass through the rear end surface of the first duct section 1711, through which the gas flow F_in to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator 130 is discharged.

[0318] Therefore, as Figure 9 As shown, the flow of internal air within the base 90 guided by the air inlet 170a can be accelerated by the blower fan 181 to generate an airflow F_in to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fins 132.

[0319] In this respect, as air flows through the third duct section 1713, the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow gradually expands, and the accelerated airflow F_in can diffuse evenly toward the evaporator refrigerant tube 131 and the heat exchange fins 132.

[0320] The airflow F_out, which exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fins 132, can flow through the exhaust port 170b formed to pass through the rear end surface of the first pipe section 1711, and thus can be discharged to the outside from the heat exchange pipe 170.

[0321] In this respect, the opening area of ​​the exhaust port 170b of the first pipe section 1711 can be set to be smaller than the area of ​​the space occupied by the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131.

[0322] As will be described later, this dimensional setting takes into account the opening area of ​​the air outlet 934 formed through the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0323] As will be described later, the area of ​​the air outlet 934 of the base 90 may be smaller than the area of ​​the space occupied by the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131.

[0324] In order to modularize the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 together with the condenser 120 and the compressor 110 into a single module as a heat pump module, the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 can be detachably connected to the substrate 161 of the module base 160, or it can be integrally formed with and connected to the substrate 161 of the module base 160.

[0325] Figure 7 The diagram shows a configuration in which the lower ends of the first pipe section 1711, the second pipe section 1712, and the third pipe section 1713 constituting the pipe body 171 are integrally formed and connected to the upper surface of the substrate 161.

[0326] The following description uses an example where the first conduit 1711, the second conduit 1712, and the third conduit 1713 are each integrally formed and connected to the substrate 161. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0327] In one example, a blower module 180 for generating an airflow to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and heat exchange fins 132 of the evaporator 130 may be located inside the pipe body 171.

[0328] In this regard, in order to minimize the increase in the volume of the heat exchange pipe 170 and improve its space utilization, the blower module 180 may include a single blower fan 181 and a single blower motor 182.

[0329] Figure 6 The accompanying drawings illustrate an embodiment in which the blower fan 181 includes an axial flow fan for generating axial airflow. However, this is merely an example, and blower fans with structures varying according to the design conditions of the duct body 171 can be applied. For example, a sirocco fan, which functions as a centrifugal fan, can be applied. Reference will be made below. Figure 20 This describes an implementation of the blower fan 181 as a centrifugal fan.

[0330] In this respect, due to the limitations of the vertical (UD) and horizontal (Le-Ri) dimensions of the area where the blower module 180 is located, the blower fan 181 constituting the blower module 180 can be configured to have a smaller diameter than each of the horizontal (Le-Ri) and vertical (UD) widths of the evaporator 130.

[0331] As shown in the figure, the blower motor 182 can be supported on the bracket 183 in a state of being exposed to the airflow F_in to be heat exchanged.

[0332] like Figure 8As shown, a slot 1712a can be formed in the second pipe section 1712 such that the width in the front-to-back direction (FR direction) corresponds to the width in the front-to-back direction (FR direction) of the support 183 of the blower module 180.

[0333] The bracket 183 can be slidably inserted into the slot with the blower motor 182 and blower fan 181 connected to the bracket 183. Therefore, the bracket 183 can be connected to the slot 1712a of the second pipe section 1712.

[0334] In one example, each of the first pipe section 1711, the second pipe section 1712, and the third pipe section 1713 constituting the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 may be configured such that their upper surfaces are completely open.

[0335] The heat exchange pipe 170 may also include a pipe cover 172, which is used to close the upper surface of the openings of the first pipe section 1711, the second pipe section 1712 and the third pipe section 1713 that constitute the pipe body 171.

[0336] As shown in the figure, the pipe cover 172 can be configured to simultaneously close the entire upper surface of the first pipe section 1711, the upper surface of the second pipe section 1712, and the upper surface of the third pipe section 1713.

[0337] More specifically, the pipe cover 172 may include a first cover portion 1721 for closing the upper surface of the opening of the first pipe portion 1711, and a second cover portion 1722 for closing the upper surface of the opening of the second pipe portion 1712 and the upper surface of the opening of the third pipe portion 1713.

[0338] As shown in the figure, the first cover 1721 and the second cover 1722 can be integrally formed with each other.

[0339] Therefore, leakage of the airflow F_out, which exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and heat exchange fins 132, into the receiving space of the base 90 can be prevented. Thus, the phenomenon of the airflow F_out, which exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and heat exchange fins 132, being redirected into the heat exchange pipe 170 or leaking into the tank 20 and storage tank 41 to reduce the washing water temperature can be minimized.

[0340] Additionally, the pipe cover 172 can be detachably attached to the upper surface of the pipe body 171.

[0341] In order to enable the pipe cover to be detachably attached to the pipe body, the downwardly extending fastening tab 112 can be integrally formed and disposed thereon with each of the left and right end surfaces of the first cover portion 1721.

[0342] The snap-fit ​​protrusions 1711a that are snapped and connected to the fastening protrusions 112 can be integrally formed and disposed on the left and right surfaces of the first pipe section 1711 in a manner corresponding to the fastening protrusions 112.

[0343] Therefore, in order to maintain and repair the evaporator 130 and the blower module 180 of the heat pump module 100, the heat pump module 100 can be removed from the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90, and can extend from the base through the left wall 94 of the opening of the base 90, and then the pipe cover 172 can be removed independently from the pipe body 171.

[0344] Therefore, even when only the pipe cover 172 is removed from the pipe body 171, the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the blower module 180 housed in the pipe body 171 can be repaired or replaced. This improves the ease of maintenance and repair of the evaporator 130 and the blower module 180.

[0345] In one example, as described above, the heat exchange conduit 170 is configured such that the airflow F_out, which has exchanged heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator 130, flows through the exhaust port 170b of the heat exchange conduit 170 and is discharged to the outside of the dishwasher 1.

[0346] Therefore, the air outlet 934 can be formed to pass through the rear wall 93 of the base 90 in the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0347] like Figure 10 As shown, a pair of column portions 9311 supporting the load of the support barrel 20 can be integrally formed with and disposed on the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0348] To prevent a reduction in the strength of the base, it may be difficult to form an air outlet 934 at the location where a pair of columns 9311 are formed.

[0349] Therefore, the air outlet 934 of the base 90 can be positioned and formed at a location that avoids the position of the pair of pillars 9311.

[0350] Preferably, as shown in the figure, the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 can be located in the area between a pair of columns 9311 arranged in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction), and the air outlet 934 can be formed directly behind the pipe body 171.

[0351] like Figure 10 As shown, in order to distribute the load of the barrel 20, a pair of columns 9311 can be formed at positions symmetrical to each other with the center line of the base 90 in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) as the center.

[0352] Therefore, the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 and the air outlet 934 of the base 90 can be respectively located at approximately the center position in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) of the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0353] However, as shown in the figure, the rear wall 93 of the base 90 can be configured to have a stepped shape.

[0354] More specifically, the rear wall 93 of the base 90 may include an upper wall surface portion 931 and a lower wall surface portion 932 that is recessed from the upper wall surface portion 931 in the forward direction in the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0355] Thus, a stepped space that is recessed in the forward direction can be formed between the upper wall surface 931 and the ground of the support base 90.

[0356] Such a stepped space can provide an area for water supply pipes, drainage pipes or power cables to extend through the lower wall surface 932 of the rear wall 93 of the base 90 and connect to the heat pump module.

[0357] In one example, as described above, the heat exchange conduit 170 is configured to be in close contact with the front surface of the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0358] Therefore, the exhaust port 170b of the heat exchange pipe 170 can be positioned to be included in the region of the upper wall surface portion 931 and the lower wall surface portion 932 of the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0359] Considering the location of the exhaust port 170b, the air outlet 934 can be formed to pass through the area of ​​the upper wall surface portion 931 and the lower wall surface portion 932 of the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0360] Therefore, the upper edge of the air outlet 934 can be provided in the upper wall surface portion 931 of the rear wall 93, and the lower edge of the air outlet 934 can be provided in the lower wall surface portion 932 of the rear wall 93.

[0361] Therefore, as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, a top plate-shaped air shield 933 can be formed on the rear and top of the air outlet 934.

[0362] The flow direction of the airflow F_out discharged through the air outlet 934 can be guided by the stepped shape of the rear wall 93 of the base 90 and the air shield 933 of the rear wall 93, so as to move along the stepped space.

[0363] That is, the stepped space can be used as a channel for the flow of airflow F_out that has exchanged heat with the refrigerant.

[0364] In one example, guide vanes 935 for guiding the flow direction of the airflow F_out for heat exchange can be provided on the air outlet 934 of the base 90.

[0365] As an example, the guide vane 935 can be configured to guide the heat exchange airflow F_out in a separate manner, such that a portion of the airflow F_out flows in the left direction (Le direction) while another portion of the airflow F_out flows in the right direction (Ri direction).

[0366] This minimizes the phenomenon that the heat exchange airflow F_out flows over the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90 and re-enters the accommodating space of the base 90.

[0367] However, as described above, the air shield 933 is located directly behind the exhaust port 170b of the heat exchange pipe 170.

[0368] Therefore, a portion of the airflow F_out discharged to the exhaust port 170b can be redirected back into the base 90 through the gap between the air shield 933 and the rear surface of the heat exchange pipe 170.

[0369] As described above, in order to prevent the heat exchange airflow F_out from being redirected back into the base, the pipe cover 172 of the heat exchange pipe 170 may further include a rearward extension 1721b.

[0370] like Figure 11 As shown, the front end of the rearward extension 1721b of the pipe cover 172 can be integrally formed with and connected to the first cover 1721.

[0371] Additionally, the rear end of the rearward extension 1721b of the pipe cover 172 can extend to a position that can at least partially cover the upper surface, left surface, and right surface of the air shield 933.

[0372] In addition, the rear extension 1721b of the pipe cover 172 can be configured to contact the surface of the air shield 933.

[0373] Therefore, as Figure 12 As shown, the gap formed between the air shield 933 and the rear surface of the heat exchange pipe 170 due to machining tolerances can be effectively shielded by the rearward extension 1721b of the pipe cover 172.

[0374] Therefore, the possibility that the airflow F_out, which has already exchanged heat with the refrigerant, may leak into the housing space of the base 90 through the gap between the air shield 933 and the rear surface of the heat exchange pipe 170 due to machining tolerances, and thus may be redirected back into the heat exchange pipe 170, can be minimized.

[0375] [Detailed structure of the air guide]

[0376] The following is for reference Figures 13 to 19 The detailed configuration of the air guide 173 of the heat pump module 100 according to this disclosure will be described.

[0377] As described above, this disclosure aims to provide a dishwasher configured to prevent overheating that may occur when the compressor 110 and the main control panel 210 are positioned close to each other.

[0378] As described above, the compressor 110 can be positioned between the main control panel 210 and the evaporator 130 in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0379] More specifically, the compressor 110 may be located in the space between the blower module 180, which is housed in the heat exchange pipe 170, and the main control panel 210.

[0380] In this respect, the compressor 110 can be located near the air inlet 170a of the heat exchange pipe 170.

[0381] Therefore, the compressor 110 can be exposed to the airflow flowing into the inlet 170a of the heat exchange pipe 170, and thus the cooling effect of the compressor 110 can be improved.

[0382] However, when only the compressor 110 is used in a configuration where it is located near the inlet 170a of the heat exchange pipe 170, the compressor 110 and the main control panel 210 are sometimes not adequately cooled by the airflow F_in that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator.

[0383] The heat pump module 100 may also include an air guide 173 for guiding the flow direction of the airflow F_in in order to increase the proportion of the airflow F_in flowing on and along the compressor 110 relative to the total amount of airflow F_in flowing into the heat exchange duct 170.

[0384] Figure 13 and Figure 14 The configuration of the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0385] Reference Figure 13 and Figure 14 According to the first embodiment, the air guide 173 may include an upper wall 1731, which is disposed at a position spaced apart from the compressor 110 in the upward direction (U direction).

[0386] As shown in the figure, the upper wall 1731 serves as a top plate that is installed on the top of the compressor 110 and simultaneously shields the compressor 110.

[0387] Therefore, when viewed from above by an observer in the upward direction (U direction) of the air guide, the compressor 110 is obstructed by the upper wall 1731, thus making it impossible for an observer in the upward direction (U direction) of the air guide to observe the state of the compressor.

[0388] Therefore, the airflow F_in flowing vertically toward the compressor 110 can be blocked by the upper wall 1731 of the air guide 173.

[0389] In one example, the upper wall 1731 of the air guide 173 may be integrally formed with and connected to the second cover portion 1722 of the pipe cover 172, or it may be separately formed with and connected to the second cover portion 1722 of the pipe cover 172.

[0390] In the first embodiment shown, the right edge of the upper wall 1731 of the air guide 173 is integrally formed with and connected to the second cover portion 1722 of the pipe cover 172.

[0391] Furthermore, the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment may also include a rear wall 1732 disposed at a position spaced rearward from the compressor 110.

[0392] As shown in the figure, the rear wall 1732 is used to shield the compressor 110 and is located at the rear of the compressor 110.

[0393] Therefore, when viewed from behind by an observer located at the rear of the air guide, the compressor 110 is completely obscured by the rear wall 1732, which may result in an observer located at the rear of the air guide being unable to observe the state of the compressor.

[0394] Therefore, the airflow F_in flowing forward toward the compressor 110 from the rear of the compressor 110 can be blocked by the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173.

[0395] As shown in the figure, the upper edge of the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173 can be integrally formed with and connected to the rear edge of the upper wall 1731.

[0396] Additionally, the right edge of the rear wall 1732 can extend to a position that contacts the outer peripheral surface of the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170.

[0397] Therefore, the airflow F_in flowing from the rear of the compressor 110 toward the compressor 110 can be blocked by the rear wall 1732.

[0398] Additionally, the lower end of the rear wall 1732 can extend to a position that contacts the bottom surface 1611 of the substrate 161 of the module base 160.

[0399] As shown in the figure, each of the upper wall 1731 and the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment can be configured as a plate shape that does not have an opening and is completely closed.

[0400] The air guide 173 according to the first embodiment may also include a left wall 1733, which is disposed at a position spaced apart from the compressor 110 in the left direction (Le direction).

[0401] As shown in the figure, the upper edge of the left wall 1733 can be integrally formed with and connected to the left edge of the upper wall 1731, and the rear edge of the left wall 1733 can be integrally formed with and connected to the left edge of the rear wall 1732.

[0402] However, the left wall 1733 is located between the compressor 110 and the main control panel 210, and is positioned to separate the compressor 110 and the main control panel 210 from each other.

[0403] Multiple openings can be provided in the left wall 1733 of the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment, so that the airflow F_in that is already on the main control panel 210 and flowing along the main control panel 210 can flow toward the compressor 110.

[0404] As described above, the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment is configured to include an upper wall 1731, a rear wall 1732 and a left wall 1733. The front surface of the air guide 173 can be opened, and thus an opening path through which the heat exchange airflow F_out can flow can be formed.

[0405] As described above, since the compressor 110 is configured to be exposed to the open path, at least a portion of the airflow F_in that is directed to the inlet 170a of the heat exchange duct 170 can flow on and along the compressor 110 and can be directed to the inlet 170a.

[0406] In particular, the proportion of airflow F_in that has flowed to the intake port 170a after flowing on the outer peripheral surface of the compressor 110 can be significantly increased due to the presence of the upper wall 1731 and the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the compressor 110.

[0407] Furthermore, as the proportion of airflow F_in heated by compressor 110 increases, the heat exchange efficiency on evaporator 130 can be significantly improved.

[0408] In one example, although not shown, the first tube 151 and the second tube 152 may extend through the front surface of the opening of the air guide 173, and the third tube 153 and the fourth tube 154 may extend through the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173.

[0409] Figure 15 The configuration of an air guide according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0410] Compared with the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment described above, the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment may further include a front wall 1734 and a right wall 1735.

[0411] As shown in the figure, the upper edge of the front wall 1734 of the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment can be integrally formed with and connected to the front edge of the upper wall 1731.

[0412] In addition, the left edge of the front wall 1734 can be integrally formed with and connected to the front edge of the left wall 1733.

[0413] Additionally, the lower end of the front wall 1734 can extend to a position that contacts the bottom surface 91 of the base 90 and the bottom surface 1611 of the module base 160.

[0414] In one example, as shown in the figure, the leading edge of the right wall 1735 of the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment can be integrally formed with and connected to the right edge of the front wall 1734.

[0415] Additionally, the rear edge of the right wall 1735 can extend in a manner that contacts the front surface of the second pipe section 1712 of the pipe body 171.

[0416] In addition, the lower edge of the right wall 1735 can extend to a position where it contacts the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0417] Since the front wall 1734 and the right wall 1735 are further added to form the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment, a closed channel can be defined inside the air guide 173, while only the air inlet 1736 and the air outlet of the air guide are open.

[0418] In this respect, the compressor 110 can be completely housed in a closed passage defined by the air guide 173.

[0419] Therefore, compared with the first embodiment, the proportion of airflow F_in flowing on and along the compressor 110 is significantly increased, which can significantly increase the cooling efficiency of the compressor 110 and the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator 130.

[0420] In one example, a plurality of openings formed in the left wall 1733 of the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment can be used as air inlets 1736 for entering the closed channel.

[0421] As shown in the figure, the left wall 1733 of the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment is parallel to the left wall 94 of the base 90 and the main control panel 210.

[0422] Therefore, the air inlet 1736 of the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment opens toward the main control panel 210.

[0423] Therefore, the airflow F_in flowing on and along the main control panel 210 can be guided to the air inlet 1736 in the right direction (Ri direction).

[0424] The airflow F_in, guided to the right (Ri direction) through the air inlet 1736, can flow along and over the outer peripheral surface of the compressor 110, and then be guided into the air inlet 170a of the heat exchange pipe 170, so that its flow direction can be changed to the rearward direction.

[0425] In one example, a filter 1737 capable of filtering foreign objects such as dust may be provided in the area where an air inlet 1736 is formed on the left wall 1733 of the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment.

[0426] Therefore, it can prevent foreign objects such as dust from accumulating in the evaporator 130, or prevent the condensate generated during the heat exchange process in the evaporator 130 from being contaminated by foreign objects such as dust.

[0427] In one example, although not shown, the first tube 151 and the second tube 152 may extend through the front wall 1734 of the air guide 173, and the third tube 153 and the fourth tube 154 may extend through the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173.

[0428] In one example, Figures 16 to 19 The configuration of the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0429] Compared to the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment as described above, the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment can be configured such that an air inlet 1736 is formed in the front wall 1734.

[0430] Therefore, the air inlet 1736 of the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment opens in the forward direction.

[0431] Since the air inlet 1736 is formed in the front wall 1734 and opens in the forward direction, the first pipe 151 and the second pipe 152 can extend through the air inlet 1736 and extend in the front-rear direction (FR direction).

[0432] Therefore, unlike the above embodiments, in the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment, it is not necessary to form a separate through hole in the front wall 1734 for the first tube 151 and the second tube 152 to pass through.

[0433] In addition, unlike the above embodiments, the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment can be coplanar with the rear surface of the pipe body 171.

[0434] Therefore, as Figure 17 As shown, the third tube 153 and the fourth tube 154 can be configured to be housed as a whole in a closed channel.

[0435] That is, the space occupied by the third tube 153 and the fourth tube 154 can be ensured inside the closed channel.

[0436] Therefore, in the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment, unlike the above embodiment, it is not necessary to form a separate through hole in the rear wall 1732 for the third tube 153 and the fourth tube 154 to pass through.

[0437] In one example, when the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment is shifted in the rearward direction to be coplanar with the rear surface of the duct body 171, the enclosed channel can be expanded in the rearward direction of the air inlet 170a of the heat exchange duct 170.

[0438] Therefore, according to the third embodiment, in addition to the effect of increasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the enclosed channel, the flow path of the airflow F_in can be additionally changed from the position behind the compressor 110 in the enclosed channel inside the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment.

[0439] Therefore, the duration of airflow F_in remaining in the closed channel of the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment can be extended, and eddies or turbulence of airflow F_in can be easily generated.

[0440] This can further improve the cooling effect of the airflow F_in on the compressor 110 or its heat exchange efficiency with the compressor 110.

[0441] In one example Figure 20 The configuration of the air guide 173 according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure is shown.

[0442] Compared to the configuration according to the above embodiment, the air guide 173 according to the fourth embodiment may include a blower fan 181 implemented as a centrifugal fan.

[0443] As shown in the figure, the blower fan 181, which is implemented as a centrifugal fan, can be constructed in a Sirocco fan structure in which the blower motor 182 and the blower fan 181 are modularized with each other.

[0444] When the blower fan 181 is implemented as a centrifugal fan, the axis of rotation of the blower fan 181 can extend in the left and right directions.

[0445] In addition, the air inlet of the blower module 180 can be opened in the left direction (Le direction).

[0446] In addition, unlike the above-described embodiments, the width of the blower module 180, which is implemented as a centrifugal fan, in the front-to-back direction (FR direction) can be much larger than the width in the up-down direction (UD direction) and the width in the left-to-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0447] Therefore, as shown in the figure, the blower module 180 according to the fourth embodiment can be configured to be integrally housed in the air guide 173.

[0448] In addition, when the blower module 180 is housed inside the air guide 173, unlike the above embodiment, the second pipe section 1712 that constitutes the heat exchange pipe 170 and is used to house the blower module 180 can be omitted.

[0449] Therefore, compared with the above embodiments, the width of the heat exchange pipe 170 in the front-rear direction (FR direction) according to the fourth embodiment can be reduced.

[0450] In this respect, the air inlet 170a of the heat exchange pipe 170 can be formed in the front end surface of the third pipe section 1713.

[0451] To prevent a decrease in air supply efficiency, the air outlet of the blower module 180 according to the fourth embodiment can be configured to be directly connected and communicated with the air inlet 170a formed in the third pipe section 1713 of the heat exchange pipe 170.

[0452] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described in more detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not necessarily limited to these embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the technical essence of this disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in this disclosure are intended to describe, not limit, the technical concept of this disclosure, and the scope of the technical concept of this disclosure is not limited by these embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. Furthermore, even if the effects of the configuration of this disclosure are not explicitly described in the above description of the embodiments of this disclosure, it should be recognized that predictable effects from such configurations are possible.

Claims

1. A dishwasher, the dishwasher comprising: A bucket, wherein a washing space is defined in the bucket, and wherein tableware is contained in the bucket; A base, wherein the base is disposed below the barrel; A storage tank is disposed between the base and the bucket and is configured to store washing water to be supplied to the bucket in the storage tank; as well as A heat pump module is disposed between the base and the tank and configured to heat the washing water to be supplied to the storage tank. The heat pump module includes: A compressor configured to compress refrigerant; A condenser configured to receive refrigerant that has flowed through the compressor and to heat wash water to be supplied to the storage tank; An evaporator configured to receive refrigerant that has flowed through the condenser; and A heat exchange conduit is configured to house the evaporator and define a passage through which an airflow to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator flows.

2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The heat pump module also includes a blower module configured to blow air to generate the airflow to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator. The heat exchange pipe includes: A first piping section, in which the evaporator is housed; and The second duct section houses the blower module. The first pipe section is located behind the second pipe section.

3. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein, When the dishwasher is viewed in a direction perpendicular to the airflow direction, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first pipe section is larger than that of the second pipe section.

4. The dishwasher according to claim 3, wherein, The heat exchange pipeline also includes a third pipeline section disposed between the first pipeline section and the second pipeline section. Specifically, when the dishwasher is viewed in a direction perpendicular to the airflow direction, the cross-sectional area of ​​the front end surface of the third pipe section is set to be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the rear end surface of the third pipe section, and When the dishwasher is viewed in a direction perpendicular to the flow direction of the airflow, the cross-sectional area of ​​the third duct gradually increases as the third duct extends from its front end toward its rear end.

5. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein, The blower module includes: A blower fan, the blower fan being configured to accelerate air to generate the airflow; and A blower motor, which generates rotational driving force to drive the blower fan. The blower fan is composed of a single blower fan. The blower motor is composed of a single blower motor. and / or The blower fan is implemented as an axial flow fan.

6. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The heat exchange pipe is configured to be in close contact with the inner surface of the rear wall of the base. Wherein, at a position where the heat exchange pipe is in close contact with the rear wall of the base, an air outlet is provided that passes through the rear wall of the base in the front-to-back direction. The airflow that exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is discharged to the outside of the heat exchange pipe through the air outlet.

7. The dishwasher according to claim 6, wherein, The compressor is disposed between one side wall of the evaporator and the base and is located in front of the evaporator.

8. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the compressor is positioned in the front-to-back direction in front of the air inlet of the heat exchange pipe. The compression mechanism is configured such that the volume of the portion of the compressor located in front of the air inlet of the heat exchange pipe is greater than the volume of the portion of the compressor located behind the air inlet of the heat exchange pipe.

9. The dishwasher according to claim 8, wherein, The heat pump module further includes an air guide configured to direct the flow of the airflow such that at least a portion of the airflow to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator flows over and along the compressor and is then guided to the air inlet of the heat exchange duct.

10. The dishwasher according to claim 9, wherein, The air guide includes: Upper wall, the upper wall being disposed at a position spaced apart from the compressor in an upward direction; and The rear wall is located at a position spaced rearward from the compressor. The upper wall is connected to the upper end of the heat exchange pipe. The rear wall is connected to the outer peripheral surface of the heat exchange pipe.

Images