Dishwasher

Abstract

A dishwasher is provided, which is configured to: provide a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, an evaporator, a refrigerant pipe, etc. constituting a heat pump system in a base such that the compressor, the condenser, the expansion valve, the evaporator, the refrigerant pipe, etc. are collectively extended from or retracted into the base through an open front surface of the base, so that, when maintenance and repair of the heat pump system are required, even in a state where only a door, a front panel serving as a base plate, a lower frame, etc. are detached from the dishwasher, the heat pump system can be completely and at one time extended from the base without removing a tub from the base, thereby significantly improving the convenience of maintenance and repair.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a dishwasher, and more specifically, to a dishwasher configured such that a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, evaporator, refrigerant pipes, etc., constituting a heat pump system are disposed in a base, such that the compressor, condenser, expansion valve, evaporator, refrigerant pipes, etc., extend from or retract into the base through an opening on the front surface of the base. Therefore, when maintenance and repair of the heat pump system are required, even when only the door, the front panel used as the base plate, the lower frame, etc., are removed from the dishwasher, the heat pump system can be completely and once extended from the base without removing the tub from the base, thereby significantly improving the convenience of maintenance and repair. 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 compressor, condenser, expansion valve and evaporator constituting the heat pump device are respectively mounted on the bottom surface of the base and respectively arranged in dispersed positions.

[0013] Therefore, when one of the compressor, condenser, expansion valve and evaporator of the heat pump unit constituting prior art document 001 fails and therefore needs to be repaired or replaced, the dishwasher housing and tub should be removed from the base as a whole, and thus there is a problem that the dishwasher has a structure that is very disadvantageous to the maintenance and repair of the heat pump unit.

[0014] Furthermore, the heat pump device of the dishwasher disclosed in prior art document 001 is configured such that its components are separately assembled and fixed to the base.

[0015] Therefore, in the dishwasher disclosed in prior art document 001, the manufacturing process for assembling the heat pump unit, storage tank, and water softener device to the base is likely to be a relatively complex process.

[0016] In addition, the base needs to be equipped with structures or fasteners to support and secure each of the compressor, condenser, expansion valve, evaporator and refrigerant pipes that make up the heat pump unit, as well as structures or fasteners to secure the storage tank, water softener unit, etc., making the base structure very complex and potentially increasing the manufacturing cost of the dishwasher.

[0017] The primary objective of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, evaporator, refrigerant pipes, etc., constituting a heat pump system are disposed in a base, such that the compressor, condenser, expansion valve, evaporator, refrigerant pipes, etc., extend from or retract into the base through an opening on the front surface of the base. Therefore, when maintenance and repair of the heat pump system are required, even when only the door, front panel serving as the base plate, lower frame, etc., are removed from the dishwasher, the heat pump system can be completely and once extended from the base without removing the tub from the base, thereby significantly improving the convenience of maintenance and repair.

[0018] Furthermore, a second object of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that at least the storage tank and water softener unit are mounted on a module base along with components of the heat pump system, rather than on the base, thereby significantly simplifying the process for assembling and securing the heat pump system, storage tank, and water softener unit to the base.

[0019] Furthermore, a third object of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that, with the storage tank and water softener unit mounted on the module base, the storage tank and water softener unit, together with the heat pump system, extend from and retract into the base, thereby significantly improving the ease of maintenance and repair of the storage tank and water softener unit.

[0020] Furthermore, a fourth objective of this disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that the module base is directly supported on the ground, thereby partially eliminating the bottom surface portion of the base in the region corresponding to the area of ​​the module base, thus greatly simplifying the structure of the base.

[0021] 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.

[0022] The dishwasher according to this disclosure includes: a tub defining a washing space and accommodating tableware; a base defining a machine chamber and disposed below the tub; a reservoir disposed below the tub and configured to store washing water to be supplied to the tub; and a heat pump module disposed in the machine chamber and configured to heat the washing water to be supplied to the reservoir, wherein the heat pump module can be coupled to the base and configured to extend from or retract into the base in a front-rear direction.

[0023] Furthermore, the heat pump module may be configured to extend from or retract into the base in a sliding manner in the front-rear direction.

[0024] In addition, the heat pump module may include: a compressor for compressing refrigerant; a condenser configured to receive refrigerant that has flowed through the compressor and heat wash water to be supplied to the tank; an evaporator configured to receive refrigerant that has flowed through the condenser; and a module base, wherein the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator are mounted together on the module base, wherein the module base is configured to extend from the base.

[0025] Furthermore, the upper end of the storage tank can be connected to the lower wall of the barrel, and the lower end of the storage tank can be disposed on the module base, so that the storage tank can move relative to the module base in the vertical direction.

[0026] Furthermore, when the storage tank is mounted on the module base together with the compressor, the condenser and the evaporator, the storage tank, the compressor, the condenser and the evaporator can extend from the base and retract into the base together.

[0027] Furthermore, the storage tank can be moved downward relative to the bucket before the storage tank, the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator extend together from the base.

[0028] Furthermore, the dishwasher may also include a wash pump configured to pressurize wash water stored in the reservoir and supply the pressurized wash water to the tub, wherein the reservoir and the wash pump are disposed on the module base such that the upper ends of the wash pump and the reservoir partially overlap each other when viewed from above the dishwasher, wherein the upper end of the reservoir can be removed from the lower wall of the tub before the reservoir, the compressor, the condenser and the evaporator extend together from the base.

[0029] In addition, the dishwasher may also include a water softener device configured to soften the washing water to be supplied to the storage tank, wherein the water softener device may be coupled to the module base in a manner that allows it to move relative to the module base in the vertical direction.

[0030] Furthermore, when the water softener unit is mounted on the module base together with the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator, the water softener unit, the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator can extend from and retract into the base together.

[0031] Furthermore, the water softener unit can be moved in a downward direction relative to the tank before the water softener unit, the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator extend together from the base.

[0032] In addition, the dishwasher may include a water jacket configured to store washing water to be supplied to the water softener unit, wherein the water softener unit can be removed from the water jacket before the water softener unit, the compressor, the condenser and the evaporator extend together from the base.

[0033] Furthermore, the condenser can be located in front of the storage tank.

[0034] Furthermore, the condenser mounted on the module base can be oriented such that the longitudinal direction of the condenser is the left-right direction.

[0035] In addition, the module base may include: a base plate providing a mounting area on which the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator are mounted; and a front end wall connected to the front end of the base plate and projecting upward from the base plate, wherein the condenser is partially shielded by the front end wall when the dishwasher is viewed directly.

[0036] Furthermore, when viewed directly from the dishwasher, the area of ​​the portion of the condenser shielded by the front end wall can be smaller than the area of ​​the portion of the condenser not shielded by the front end wall.

[0037] Furthermore, the heat pump module can be retracted into the base through the front wall of the base.

[0038] In addition, the module base may include: a base plate providing a mounting area on which the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator are mounted; and a front wall connected to the front end of the base plate and projecting upward from the base plate, wherein the front wall may be connected to the front wall of the base when the heat pump module has been retracted into the base and installed in the base.

[0039] Furthermore, when the heat pump module has been installed in the base, the front wall of the base can prevent horizontal movement of the front end wall.

[0040] Furthermore, when the heat pump module has been installed in the base, the front wall of the base can be used to prevent the front end wall from moving upward.

[0041] Furthermore, when the heat pump module has retracted into the base, the front wall of the base can guide the movement of the front wall in the front-rear direction.

[0042] In the dishwasher according to this disclosure, when maintenance and repair of the heat pump system, the tank and the water softener unit are required, the heat pump system, the tank and the water softener unit can extend together from the base through an open side surface of the base without removing the tub from the base, thereby significantly improving the convenience of maintenance and repair.

[0043] Furthermore, the dishwasher according to this disclosure has the effect of greatly simplifying the process of assembling and securing the heat pump system, storage tank and water softener device to the base.

[0044] Furthermore, in the dishwasher according to this disclosure, the means for individually fastening and securing each component of the heat pump system, the storage tank, and the water softener unit to the base can be omitted.

[0045] Furthermore, in the dishwasher according to this disclosure, the bottom surface of the base may be at least partially absent, thus greatly simplifying the structure of the base.

[0046] Furthermore, the dishwasher according to this disclosure is configured such that the modular heat pump system can be slidably guided into and removed from the base in the horizontal direction, thereby significantly improving the convenience of the guiding / removal process for maintenance and repair.

[0047] 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

[0048] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the dishwasher shown.

[0050] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 The image shows a front perspective view of the dishwasher with the door open.

[0051] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a heat pump module installed in a dishwasher according to this disclosure.

[0052] Figure 5 This is a front perspective view showing the heat pump module, reservoir, and water softener device constituting the dishwasher according to the present disclosure extending from or retracting into the base through the opening front wall of the base.

[0053] Figure 6 This is a front perspective view showing a storage tank and water softener device, together with a heat pump module, mounted on a module base according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 7 It shows that Figure 6 The diagram shows a front perspective view of the barrel and the base with the module base installed on the base.

[0055] Figure 8 It shows from Figure 7 The image shows the process of removing the lower frame and the front 3D view of the state after removing the lower frame.

[0056] Figure 9 It shows from Figure 8 The image shown is a front perspective view of the process of removing the wash water filter module from the storage tank and bucket and removing the insertion port cap from the connection pipe of the water softener unit, and the state of its removal.

[0057] Figure 10 and Figure 11 It is a partial enlarged view and a vertical sectional view showing the state of the tank connected to the barrel and the water softener unit connected to the barrel before the process of the module base and the components mounted on it extending together from the base.

[0058] Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a partial enlarged view and a vertical sectional view showing the state of removing the storage tank from the tank and the state of removing the water softener device from the tank before the process of the module base and the components mounted on it extending together from the base.

[0059] Figure 14 and Figure 15 yes Figure 13 A magnified view of a portion of the image.

[0060] Figure 16 This is a front perspective view showing the module base extending forward from the base through the front wall of the base opening and the module base being completely removed from the base. Detailed Implementation

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] [Overall structure of the dishwasher]

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a housing 10 that constitutes the exterior.

[0074] For example, the housing 10 may include an upper panel 11, a left side panel 12, a right side panel 13, and a front panel 15 that define the upper, left, right, and front surfaces of the dishwasher 1, respectively.

[0075] 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.

[0076] Additionally, the front panel 15 is located below the door 30 and functions as a component commonly referred to as a base plate. The front panel 15 can be attached to the front wall of the base 90.

[0077] 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.

[0078] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a door 30 that opens / closes the front surface of the tub 20.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] Bucket 20 can be formed by pressing a metal sheet that is resistant to high temperatures and moisture, such as stainless steel.

[0087] 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.

[0088] In one example, the actuator 40 may include a reservoir 41 disposed below the tub 20 and configured to store wash water therein. Furthermore, the actuator 40 may include a reservoir cover 42 separating the reservoir 41 from the tub 20. Additionally, the actuator 40 may include a water supply 43 that supplies wash water from an external source to the reservoir 41. Furthermore, the actuator 40 may include a drain 44 that drains the wash water from the reservoir 41 to the outside. Additionally, the actuator 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] Therefore, the tank cover 42 can work together with the wash water filter module described later to perform the function of at least partially filtering food residues and the like contained in the wash water.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] In one example, supply path 46 can be used to selectively supply wash water from wash pump 45 to spray nozzles.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] The supply flow path switching valve 465 can be detachably fastened to the valve connection of the reservoir 41.

[0102] In one example, the sprayer may be configured to spray washing water onto the tableware stored in the dish rack assembly 50.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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).

[0110] 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.

[0111] A dish rack assembly 50 for storing tableware can be installed in the washing space 21.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] In one example, as described above, door 30 is configured to open / close the front surface of barrel 20.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] Therefore, when the door 30 is fully opened downwards, the rear panel 30b 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.

[0126] In one example, a detergent supply device for automatically supplying detergent to the interior of the tub 20 may be further provided on the rear panel 30b that forms the inner surface of the door 30.

[0127] 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).

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] The dry air supply port 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 port.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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).

[0133] 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.

[0134] In one example, the base 90 may provide a space for housing components of the dishwasher 1, such as the storage tank 41, or a machine room.

[0135] For this purpose, the base 90 may include a front wall, a rear wall, a left wall, and a right wall defining the outer boundary surface of the receiving space that serves as the machine room.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] As will be described later, the heat pump system provided in the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure can be provided in a modular manner in the machine compartment of the base 90.

[0140] 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.

[0141] 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.

[0142] The following reference Figure 4 The detailed configuration of the heat pump module 100 is described below.

[0143] [General Configuration of Heat Pump Unit]

[0144] 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.

[0145] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the heat pump module 100.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] 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.

[0153] 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.

[0154] 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.

[0155] 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 machine compartment of the base 90 to absorb heat from the air, causing the refrigerant to evaporate and thereby increasing the gas content in the refrigerant.

[0156] With the refrigerant already flowing out of the evaporator 130, the refrigerant can become a mixture of gas and liquid with very low content.

[0157] The refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 130 can be guided back to the compressor 110 through the fourth pipe 154, and can be compressed in the compressor 110, so that the refrigerant can be converted into a high-temperature and high-pressure gas.

[0158] 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.

[0159] In one example, to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the refrigerant within the evaporator 130, it is preferable to allow a large volume 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.

[0160] As described below, the blower module 180 may include, for example, a blower fan for generating airflow and a blower motor for generating rotational driving force to drive the blower fan.

[0161] In addition, the blower fan and blower motor can be housed together with the evaporator 130 in the heat exchange pipe 170.

[0162] In one example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the heat pump module 100 of the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure can be completely and once installed in the machine compartment of the base 90 in a modular state separate from the base 90.

[0163] Furthermore, the heat pump module 100 of the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure can be configured to be completely and once removed from the machine room of the base 90 to the outside in a modular state.

[0164] In order to completely and once remove or install the heat pump module 100 from or into the machine room of the base 90 in a modular configuration, the heat pump module 100 may include a module base 160, on which the compressor 110, condenser 120, evaporator 130 and expansion valve 140 are mounted together.

[0165] The compressor 110, condenser 120, evaporator 130 and expansion valve 140 constituting the heat pump module 100 can be directly or indirectly fastened to the module base 160, and can be installed in the base 90 while being directly or indirectly supported by the module base 160.

[0166] Furthermore, as described later, the module base 160 can be detachably installed into the base 90 in a state that is substantially separate from the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0167] In addition, the module base 160 can be disposed in the base 90 so that it can be directly supported on the ground in the direction of gravity.

[0168] In one example, such as Figure 5 As shown, at least the storage tank 41, the washing pump 45, and the water softener device 72, as well as the compressor 110, condenser 120, and evaporator 130 constituting the heat pump module 100, can be housed and supported together on the module base 160.

[0169] That is, conventionally, the storage tank 41, the washing pump 45 and the water softener device 72 are configured to be mounted and supported on the bottom surface 91 of the base 90.

[0170] However, according to this disclosure, the storage tank 41, the washing pump 45, and the water softener device 72 can be mounted and installed on the module base 160 of the heat pump module 100.

[0171] Therefore, the module base 160 of the heat pump module 100 can also be used in a conventional manner as the bottom surface 91 of the base 90 supporting the washing pump 45 and the water softener device 72 thereon.

[0172] Figure 5 An embodiment is shown in which the lower end of the storage tank 41, the lower end of the washing pump 45, and the lower end of the water softener device 72 are mounted on the module base 160.

[0173] However, this is just an example, and in the prior art, other components, besides the storage tank 41, washing pump 45 and water softener device 72, that are installed and connected to the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90 can be additionally installed on the module base 160.

[0174] The present disclosure will now be described based on an embodiment in which the storage tank 41, the washing pump 45, and the water softener device 72 are mounted on and connected to the module base 160 of the heat pump module 100.

[0175] In one example, the heat pump module 100 of the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure can be completely and once installed in the machine compartment of the base 90, and can be completely and once removed from the machine compartment of the base 90 to the outside.

[0176] In this respect, since the storage tank 41, the washing pump 45 and the water softener device 72 are mounted together on the module base 160, the compressor 110, condenser 120, evaporator 130 and expansion valve 140, which together with the storage tank 41, the washing pump 45 and the water softener device 72 constitute the heat pump module 100, can be installed together in the machine room of the base 90 or removed from the machine room to the outside.

[0177] For this purpose, the compressor 110, condenser 120, evaporator 130 and expansion valve 140 constituting the heat pump module 100, together with the storage tank 41, washing pump 45 and water softener device 72, can slide together from or retract into the base 90 in a horizontal manner through an open side surface of the base 90.

[0178] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, as an example, a water jacket 71 can be attached to the outer surface of the right wall 27 of the tub 20. During washing and rinsing of dishes, the washing water supplied to the tub 20 and used in the tub 20 is stored in the water jacket 71.

[0179] 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 to the area of ​​the right wall 95 of the base 90.

[0180] 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.

[0181] 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.

[0182] To minimize the inflow of washing water and prevent the inflow of foreign objects, a grille cap 118a with a similar shape to the grille cap 813 of the air inlet 271 can be attached to the barrel hole 118.

[0183] Additionally, a water softener device 72 for softening the washing water to be supplied to the storage tank 41 can be installed on the module base 160 at a position adjacent to the water jacket 71 and located below the lower wall 25 of the tank 20.

[0184] 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.

[0185] 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.

[0186] 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.

[0187] 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.

[0188] Additionally, as shown in the figure, the main control panel 210 can be installed on the left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0189] More specifically, the main control panel 210 can be set to cover the opening on the left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0190] In addition, to minimize damage caused by water leakage, the main control panel 210 can be positioned at a distance from the bottom surface 91 of the base 90 along the upward direction (U direction).

[0191] As described above, considering the positional limitations of the dry air supply device 80, the air inlet pipe 81 of the dry air supply device 80, the water jacket 71 and the main control panel 210, preferably, the heat pump module 100 extends from or retracts into the base 90 through an opening area located at a position where the movement of the heat pump module 100 causes the least interference to the dry air supply device 80, the water jacket 71 and the main control panel 210.

[0192] Therefore, the heat pump module 100 can be configured to extend from or retract into the base 90 along the front-rear direction (FR direction) through the opening area of ​​the front wall 92 of the base 90 while the storage tank 41, washing pump 45 and water softener device 72 are mounted on the module base 160.

[0193] In particular, when the dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure is constructed in a built-in manner, the movement of the dishwasher 1 in the left direction (Le direction), right direction (Ri direction) and rear direction (R direction) is blocked by kitchen furniture.

[0194] Therefore, the heat pump module 100 is configured to extend from the base through the front wall 92 of the base 90 in the forward direction, which is particularly suitable for the built-in dishwasher 1.

[0195] [Modular structure and disassembly process of heat pump modules]

[0196] The following is for reference Figures 6 to 16 The present disclosure provides a detailed description of the location of the heat pump module 100 according to embodiments thereof, the arrangement of its constituent elements, and the process of extending the heat pump module 100 from the base 90 by removing the constituent elements of the heat pump module 100 together.

[0197] First refer to Figure 6 According to the embodiments, the heat pump module 100 may include a compressor 110, which compresses the refrigerant to discharge the refrigerant in a high temperature and high pressure state.

[0198] As shown in the figure, the compressor 110 constituting the heat pump module 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can be implemented as an electric compressor, wherein a compression unit for compressing gaseous refrigerant and a motor for generating a rotary drive force to be supplied to the compression unit are integrated with each other.

[0199] In this regard, considering the space utilization of the machine room of the base 90, it is necessary to minimize the area occupied by the compressor 110 on the module base 160.

[0200] 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).

[0201] 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.

[0202] In the illustrated embodiment, a total of three fastening tabs 112 are provided, and a configuration in which the fastening tabs 112 are arranged 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.

[0203] The fastening boss (not shown) can be integrally formed with the substrate 161 of the module base 160 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.

[0204] The fastening tab 112 of the compressor 110 can be securely fastened to the fastening boss of the base plate 161 by means of a fastening device such as a bolt.

[0205] 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.

[0206] In addition, in order to guide the installation position of the compressor 110 and supplement the rigidity of the fastening boss, the mounting rib 162 can be integrally formed with and disposed on the bottom surface portion 1611 of the base plate 161 of the module base 160.

[0207] As shown, the mounting rib 162 can be provided in the form of a barrier surrounding the periphery of the fastening tab 112 formed at the lower end of the compressor 110.

[0208] In one example, the compressor 110 may be formed in a standing position and located as close as possible to the left edge of the substrate 161 of the module base 160 in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0209] Additionally, as shown in the figure, the compressor 110 can be positioned as close as possible to the inlet of the heat exchange pipe 170 that houses the blower module 180.

[0210] Therefore, compressor 110 can be exposed to airflow flowing into or out of heat exchange conduit 170. Therefore, airflow flowing into or out of heat exchange conduit 170 can be used as a means for cooling compressor 110.

[0211] 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.

[0212] Therefore, such as Figure 6 As shown, the compressor 110 can be located at the rear of the storage tank 41 and the washing pump 45.

[0213] Alternatively, the compressor 110 can be positioned in a location that does not overlap with the storage tank 41 and the washing pump 45 in the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0214] In one example, a heat pump module 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a condenser 120 that performs heat exchange between a refrigerant and washing water.

[0215] As an example, the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided in the form of a dual-pipe system, wherein the flow path for the washing water and the flow path for the refrigerant are formed together.

[0216] The condenser 120 can be configured to have a cylindrical shape, so that the flow paths for the wash water and the refrigerant can be effectively formed therein.

[0217] Furthermore, the cylindrical condenser 120 can be configured to have a length much larger than its diameter in the direction of the central axis. This ensures that the flow path for the washing water and the refrigerant, extending along the central axis, is as long as possible.

[0218] 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 equal to or greater than the predetermined level.

[0219] However, the condenser 120 can be mounted on the module base 160 such that the left-right direction (UD direction) is the longitudinal direction of the condenser, so that the condenser 120 can be effectively and efficiently accommodated in the machine room of the base 90, which is limited in height in the vertical direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0220] In one example, specifically, the condenser 120 with a cylindrical appearance can be composed of segments arranged along the longitudinal direction.

[0221] More specifically, the condenser 120, which is composed of a split body, may include a first body 120a, in which an inlet pipe 123 for guiding heated washing water is formed.

[0222] As shown by way of example, the water inlet pipe 123 can be integrally formed with the first body 120a and disposed on one side end of the first body 120a.

[0223] In addition, the condenser 120, which is composed of a split body, may include a second body 120b, in which an outlet pipe 124 for discharging heated washing water is formed.

[0224] As shown by way of example, the water outlet pipe 124 can be integrally formed with the second body 120b and disposed on one side end of the second body 120b.

[0225] The washing water pipe 190 can be connected to each of the inlet pipe 123 and the outlet pipe 124. The washing water pipe 190 may include a first washing water pipe 191 and a second washing water pipe 192.

[0226] For example, one end of the first washing water pipe 191 can be connected to the water inlet pipe 123 of the first body 120a.

[0227] The other end of the first washing water pipe 191 can be connected to the inlet or outlet of the aforementioned washing pump 45.

[0228] That is, the washing water before or after being pressurized by the washing pump 45 can be guided into the condenser 120 through the first washing water pipe 191.

[0229] 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.

[0230] Since the condenser 120 is located downstream of and connected to the washing pump 45, the washing water pressurized by the washing pump 45 can be guided through the first washing water pipe 191 to the inlet pipe 123 of the first body 120a.

[0231] In addition, one end of the second washing water pipe 192 can be connected to the water outlet pipe 124 of the second body 120b.

[0232] The other end of the second washing water pipe 192 can be connected to the aforementioned supply flow switching valve 465.

[0233] 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.

[0234] 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.

[0235] 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.

[0236] Alternatively, the first washing water pipe 191 and the second washing water pipe 192 may be formed into a corrugated or other telescopic shape.

[0237] Therefore, as described below, with the module base 160 installed in the base 90, only the condenser 120 can be separated from the base, allowing maintenance and repair of the condenser 120 to be performed.

[0238] In other words, only the condenser 120 can be effectively removed from the module base 160 without having to remove 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 beforehand.

[0239] Furthermore, since the outlet pipe 124 and the inlet pipe 123 of the condenser 120 are respectively located at the position where they are spaced apart from each other at the maximum distance along the longitudinal direction of the condenser 120, the heating efficiency of the washing water or the heat exchange efficiency with the washing water can be improved.

[0240] In one example, a condenser refrigerant tube that can convert gaseous refrigerant into liquid refrigerant is inserted into condenser 120.

[0241] As an example, the refrigerant tubes of the condenser can be guided into the condenser 120 through the outer peripheral surface of the third body 120c of the condenser 120. As shown, the third body 120c can be disposed between the first body 120a and the second body 120b and can be detachably connected to the first body 120a and the second body 120b.

[0242] In order to improve the heating efficiency of the washing water or the heat exchange efficiency with the washing water, the condenser refrigerant tubes in the third body 120c of the condenser 120 can be formed as a multi-layer structure with the tubes being bent multiple times or a coil structure with the tubes being wound multiple times.

[0243] This expands the heat exchange area between the washing water and the refrigerant, ensuring a longer flow path for the refrigerant within the third body 120c.

[0244] In one example, the condenser 120 is positioned in front of other components mounted on the module base 160.

[0245] More specifically, the component located closest to the front end wall 163 of the module base 160 among the components mounted on the module base 160 may be the condenser 120.

[0246] In addition, the condenser 120 can be disposed on the substrate 161 of the module base 160 with its central axis parallel to the extension direction of the front end wall 163 of the module base 160.

[0247] Alternatively, the condenser 120 can be located in front of the storage tank 41 and at the middle position in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) of the module base 160.

[0248] In this way, since the condenser 120 is positioned in front of other components mounted on the module base 160, the lower frame 14, which is connected to the front end wall 163 of the module base 160, is removed from it, thereby allowing the user easy access to the condenser 120.

[0249] Therefore, when a user intends to repair and replace only the condenser 120, it is not necessary to remove the entire heat pump module 100 from the base 90.

[0250] In one example, the heat pump module 100 according to the embodiment 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.

[0251] As described above, the evaporator 130 is configured such that the refrigerant therein undergoes a phase change while exchanging heat with the air inside the machine room of the base 90 or the outside air.

[0252] Therefore, similar to the refrigerant tubes received in the condenser, the evaporator 130 may include evaporator refrigerant tubes formed as a multi-layered structure with the tubes bent multiple times to maximize the heat exchange area between the refrigerant and the air.

[0253] In one example, the evaporator refrigerant tube of evaporator 130 may be configured such that the refrigerant therein can exchange heat with the internal air of the machine room of base 90, or with external air drawn into base 90 from the outside.

[0254] Figure 6 An embodiment is shown in which the evaporator refrigerant tube of the evaporator 130 is configured such that the refrigerant therein exchanges heat with the internal air of the machine compartment of the base 90.

[0255] This disclosure is based on a configuration in which the internal air in the machine room of the base 90 exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 and is then discharged to the outside. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0256] In one example, when the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 exchanges heat with the internal air of the base 90, a flow path needs to be formed so that the heat-exchanged air can be discharged to the outside through this flow path.

[0257] As shown in the figure, the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 can be positioned as close as possible to the rear wall 93 of the base 90. Therefore, along the shortest path, the internal air of the base 90 can be discharged to the outside of the base 90 through the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130.

[0258] In one example, the refrigerant tubes of the evaporator 130 can be housed within the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 that forms the heat exchange path and the exhaust path. Therefore, the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant in the evaporator 130 and the internal air of the base 90 can be maximized.

[0259] Therefore, with the evaporator refrigerant pipe housed in the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170, the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 can be positioned as close as possible to the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0260] 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.

[0261] In one example, in a manner corresponding to the maximum close contact between the pipe body 171 and the rear wall 93 of the base 90, the internal air of the base 90, which undergoes heat exchange while flowing in the pipe body 171, needs to be smoothly discharged from the base 90 to the outside.

[0262] Therefore, an exhaust port can be provided in the form of a grille in the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0263] Additionally, although not shown, a pair of columns for supporting the load of the barrel 20 can be integrally formed with and provided on the rear wall 93 of the base 90. To prevent a reduction in the strength of the rear wall 93, it is difficult to form an vent at the location where the pair of columns are formed.

[0264] Therefore, the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 and the exhaust port of the base 90 can be positioned and formed at a location that avoids a pair of columns.

[0265] Preferably, the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 can be disposed in the region between a pair of columns in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction), and the exhaust port can be formed directly behind the pipe body 171.

[0266] In order to distribute the load of the barrel 20, a pair of columns can be formed at positions symmetrical to each other with the center line along the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) of the base 90 as the center.

[0267] Therefore, the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 and the exhaust port of the base 90 can be located in the approximate central area of ​​the rear wall 93 of the base 90 in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0268] In one example, the main body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 may be located close to the rear of the storage tank 41 and the washing pump 45.

[0269] In one example, the condenser 120 and compressor 110, as well as the heat exchange pipes 170 and evaporator 130 described above, can be modularized into a single heat pump module, which can be mounted on a module base 160. That is, the condenser 120 and compressor 110, as well as the heat exchange pipes 170 and evaporator 130 described above, can be jointly mounted on the module base 160 to form a single heat pump module.

[0270] Therefore, with the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 housed in the pipe body 171, the pipe body 171 can be detachably mounted onto the base plate 161 of the module base 160.

[0271] Similar to compressor 110, in order to detachably connect the pipe body 171 of heat exchange pipe 170 to base plate 161, a fastening boss (not shown) for guiding the fastening position of pipe body 171 can be integrally formed with base plate 161. Pipe body 171 can be fastened to fastening boss.

[0272] Furthermore, the mounting rib 162 can be integrally formed with and disposed on the bottom surface portion 1611 of the base plate 161 of the module base 160, and can guide the installation position of the pipe body 171 and increase the connection strength between the module base and the pipe body 171.

[0273] In one example, a blower module 180 for generating a forced airflow of internal air to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe of evaporator 130 may be located inside the duct body 171.

[0274] In this regard, in order to minimize the increase in the volume of the heat exchange pipe 170 and improve space utilization, the blower module 180 can be configured to include a single blower fan and a single blower motor.

[0275] Figure 6 An embodiment in which the blower fan is an axial flow fan that generates axial airflow is shown. However, this is merely an example, and blower fans with configurations that vary depending on the design conditions of the duct body 171 can be applied. For example, a hot air fan or the like can be selectively applied as the blower fan.

[0276] In one example, due to limitations on the dimensions of the area where the blower module 180 is installed in the vertical direction (UD direction) and the horizontal direction (Le-Ri direction), the dimensions of the blower fan constituting the blower module 180 can be set to have a smaller diameter than each of the widths of the evaporator 130 in the horizontal direction (Le-Ri direction) and the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0277] Therefore, the cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the heat exchange pipe 170 that houses the blower module 180 can be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the portion that houses the evaporator refrigerant pipe.

[0278] In addition, it is necessary to minimize the flow resistance and flow loss of the internal airflow flowing in the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170.

[0279] Therefore, the portion of the heat exchange pipe 170 that houses the blower module 180 can be configured to have a shape in which the cross-sectional area gradually increases as the portion extends in the direction from the front to the rear.

[0280] In one example, the pipe body 171 of the heat exchange pipe 170 may be configured such that its upper surface is completely open.

[0281] The heat exchange pipe 170 may also include a pipe cover 172, which is used to close the upper surface of the opening of the pipe body 171.

[0282] As shown in the figure, the pipe cover 172 can be configured to simultaneously enclose both the upper surface of the portion accommodating the blower module 180 and the upper surface of the portion accommodating the evaporator refrigerant pipe.

[0283] In addition, the pipe cover 172 can be detachably connected to the pipe body 171.

[0284] Therefore, for maintenance and repair, the heat pump module 100 is removed from the base 90 and extends from the base through the opening front wall 92 of the base 90, and then only the pipe cover 172 can be removed independently from the pipe body 171 without removing the entire pipe body 171 from the module base 160.

[0285] Therefore, without removing or disassembling the pipe body 171, only the pipe cover 172 is removed from the pipe body 171. This allows for the repair or replacement of the evaporator refrigerant pipe and the blower module 180 housed within the pipe body 171.

[0286] Therefore, the ease of maintenance and repair of the evaporator 130 and the blower module 180 can be improved.

[0287] In one example, a heat pump module 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include an expansion valve 140 disposed between a second pipe 152 and a third pipe 153.

[0288] In the illustrated embodiment, the expansion valve 140 may be positioned such that interference between the expansion valve 140 and the compressor 110 and condenser 120 as described above can be minimized.

[0289] As an example, the expansion valve 140 can be positioned in the space between the compressor 110 and the condenser 120 in the forward-reverse (FR) direction for connection to each of the second pipe 152 and the third pipe 153.

[0290] In one example, a heat pump module 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a module base 160 on which the compressor 110, condenser 120, evaporator 130 and refrigerant pipe 150 as described above are mounted.

[0291] More specifically, the module base 160 may include a plate-shaped substrate 161.

[0292] The compressor 110, condenser 120, and evaporator 130 can be mounted together on the upper surface of the base plate 161. The compressor 110, condenser 120, and evaporator 130 can be supported together on it.

[0293] As described above, multiple fastening bosses and mounting ribs 162 can be integrally formed with and disposed on the upper surface of the substrate 161, so that the compressor 110, condenser 120 and evaporator 130 can be individually fastened and supported on the upper surface of the substrate 161 using multiple fastening bosses and mounting ribs 162.

[0294] However, considering the machine room 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.

[0295] However, as described later, the heat pump module 100 is configured such that, with the compressor 110, condenser 120, evaporator 130, etc., all fixed to the module base 160, it extends completely and retracts into the base 90 in the front-rear direction (FR direction) in one continuous motion.

[0296] Therefore, in order to prevent damage during the extension of the heat pump module from the base and to ensure its predetermined rigidity, reinforcing ribs 1612 extending in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) and front-back direction (FR direction) can be integrally formed with and provided on the bottom surface portion 1611 of the substrate 161.

[0297] In addition, barrier-like edge walls 1613 protruding in the upward direction (U direction) from the left, right and rear edges of the outer edge of the substrate 161 can be integrally formed with the left, right and rear edges of the outer edge of the substrate 161.

[0298] In one example, such as Figure 6 As shown, in addition to the compressor 110, condenser 120 and evaporator 130, the storage tank 41, water softener device 72 and washing pump 45 can be mounted on the base plate 161.

[0299] As an example, the washing pump 45 and the reservoir 41 may be arranged on the substrate 161 so that they partially overlap each other when viewed from an observer in the upward direction (U direction) of the dishwasher (in a top view).

[0300] More specifically, the washing pump 45 and the storage tank 41 can be disposed on the base plate 161 such that the washing pump 45 and the storage tank body 411 constituting the upper end of the storage tank 41 partially overlap each other in a top view.

[0301] In addition, the lower end of the water collection section 412 of the storage tank 41 for storing washing water can be supported on or in contact with the substrate 161.

[0302] In this respect, the storage tank body 411 connected to the upper end of the water collection section 412 can be detachably connected to the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20.

[0303] More specifically, as described below, the tank body 411 can be connected to a first connecting groove 256, which is recessed in the downward direction (D direction) from the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20.

[0304] In this respect, the valve connection 413, which is provided inside the storage tank body 411 so as to protrude in the upward direction (U direction), can be inserted into the storage tank hole 252 formed in the first connection groove 256.

[0305] Although not shown in the figure, the above-mentioned supply flow path switching valve 465 can be connected to the valve connection part 413.

[0306] As described above, when the tank body 411 is connected to the first connection groove 256 and the valve connection part 413 is inserted into the tank hole 252, the removal process between the tank body 411 and the first connection groove 256 and the removal process between the valve connection part 413 and the tank hole 252 can be performed before the heat pump module 100 is completely and once removed as described below.

[0307] Therefore, as described later, the water collection portion 412 constituting the lower end of the storage tank 41 can be supported on the substrate 161 in a vertical direction (UD direction) relative to the substrate 161 of the module base 160.

[0308] Additionally, as shown in the figure, the water softener device 72 can be installed on the right side of the storage tank 41.

[0309] More specifically, the water softener device 72 may include a tank body 721 that receives regenerant and ion exchange resin.

[0310] Additionally, the water softener device 72 may include a tank base 723 connected to the lower end of the tank body 721.

[0311] Additionally, the water softener device 72 may include a cover 722 connected to the upper end of the tank body 721.

[0312] In this respect, as shown in the figure, the base 723 of the water softener device 72 can be detachably connected to the substrate 161.

[0313] In addition, the connecting pipe 724 for additionally guiding the regenerant can be integrally formed with the cover 722.

[0314] External thread 7241 can be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the upper end of the connecting pipe 724.

[0315] The upper end of the connecting pipe 724, which has external threads 7241, can pass through the aforementioned water softener connecting hole 255 of the bucket 20 and be exposed to the washing space 21.

[0316] The insertion port cap 7225 can be threaded into the external thread 7241.

[0317] When the insertion port cap 7225 is tightened into the external thread 7241 of the connecting pipe 724, the connecting pipe 724 can be connected to the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20.

[0318] Additionally, the port assembly 725 for receiving, collecting, and discharging washing water can be integrally formed with the cover 722.

[0319] More specifically, the port group 725 may include an inlet 7221, a collection port 7222, and an outlet 7223.

[0320] Each of the inlet 7221, the collector 7222, and the outlet 7223 constituting the port group 725 can be detachably connected to the connection portion 715 of the water jacket 71.

[0321] By inserting the connecting part 715 of the water jacket 71 into the inlet 7221, the collection port 7222 and the outlet 7223 respectively, the water jacket 71 and the tank body 721 can be connected to each other.

[0322] In this respect, the inlet 7221, the collector 7222 and the outlet 7223 are configured to be connected to or removed from the connection portion 715 of the water jacket 71.

[0323] Therefore, the inlet 7221, the collector 7222, and the outlet 7223 can protrude toward the connector 715 to have the same protrusion height.

[0324] As described above, when the insertion port cap 7225 is tightened to the external thread 7241 of the connecting pipe 724, the connecting pipe 724 is connected to the lower wall 25 of the tank 20, and the port assembly 725 is connected to the connection portion 715 of the water jacket 71. Therefore, as described below, the removal processes between the connecting pipe 724 and the insertion port cap 7225, between the connecting pipe 724 and the lower wall 25 of the tank 20, and between the port assembly 725 and the connection portion 715 of the water jacket 71 can be performed before the heat pump module 100 is completely and once removed from the base 90.

[0325] Therefore, as described later, the tank base 723 constituting the lower end of the water softener device 72 can be movably connected to the substrate 161 of the module base 160 in the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0326] References to the following text Figures 10 to 15 This describes the process of moving the storage tank 41 and the water softener device 72 relative to each other in the vertical direction (UD direction) in order to remove the components of the heat pump module together and extend the components of the heat pump module together from the base 90.

[0327] As described above, the storage tank 41, water softener device 72, and washing pump 45, which have relatively large volumes compared to the components of the heat pump module 100, are mounted together with the components of the heat pump module 100 on the base plate 161 of the module base 160.

[0328] Therefore, the substrate 161 of the module base 160 can be configured to have an area corresponding to the area of ​​the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90 used in a conventional manner.

[0329] In addition, considering the total weight of the components mounted on the base plate 161 of the module base 160, it is preferable that the module base 160 is not directly supported on the bottom surface 91 of the base 90 when it is installed in the machine room of the base 90.

[0330] Therefore, as will be described later, the module base 160 can be configured to be directly supported on the ground.

[0331] In addition, in order to support the module base 160 on the ground while the module base 160 is installed in the machine room of the base 90, the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90 can be partially opened in the area corresponding to the module base 160 to form a partially open area.

[0332] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown, the substrate 161 of the module base 160 may have an asymmetrical shape in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0333] Accordingly, the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90 may be located in an area that does not overlap with the module base 160, and may be formed into an asymmetrical shape in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0334] Due to the asymmetrical shape of the substrate 161, incorrect assembly can be prevented when the module base 160 is installed in the base 90.

[0335] In one example, the module base 160 may include a front end wall 163, which is integrally formed with and disposed on the front end of the substrate 161.

[0336] As shown in the figure, the front end wall 163 can be formed at the front edge of the substrate 161 and extend linearly in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction), and can be provided in the form of a barrier protruding in the upward direction (U direction).

[0337] As described above, the front end wall 163 can be integrally formed with the entire leading edge of the substrate 161 and extend along the entire leading edge of the substrate 161, thereby enhancing the rigidity of the leading edge portion of the substrate 161.

[0338] Additionally, the front wall 163 can be used as a handle that can be gripped by the user when the heat pump module 100 is completely and once removed from or installed into the base 90.

[0339] The front wall 163 can be formed as a double-wall structure to prevent damage caused by gripping when the heat pump module 100 is completely and once removed from or installed into the base 90.

[0340] As described later, the lower frame 14 is configured such that its lower edge inserts into the double-wall structure. Therefore, the front wall 163 of the module base 160 can be used to support and secure the lower end of the lower frame 14.

[0341] In one example, the front-to-back (FR) width at each of the left and right ends of the front wall 163 can be set to be greater than the front-to-back (FR) width at the midpoint between the left and right ends of the front wall 163.

[0342] Additionally, as described later, the width in the front-rear direction (FR direction) at each of the left and right ends of the front wall 163 can be set to be greater than or equal to the width in the front-rear direction (FR direction) of the front wall 92 of the base 90.

[0343] As will be described later, when the module base 160 is installed in the base 90, the left and right ends of the front end wall 163 can be connected to the front wall 92 of the base 90.

[0344] Since the width of the left and right ends of the front wall 163 in the front-rear direction (FR direction) is greater than or equal to the width of the front wall 92 of the base 90 in the front-rear direction (FR direction), the horizontal movement direction of the module base 160 can be effectively guided by the front wall 163 of the module base 160 and the front wall 92 of the base 90.

[0345] In addition, the connection between the front wall 163 of the module base 160 and the front wall 92 of the base 90 can prevent relative movement of the module base 160 relative to the base 90 in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) and the up-down direction (UD direction) when the heat pump module 100 is installed in the base 90.

[0346] Therefore, the front wall 163 of the module base 160 and the front wall 92 of the base 90 can be used as stops to prevent the heat pump module 100 from moving relative to the base 90.

[0347] The following will refer to Figure 16 Describes a structure to prevent relative movement of module base 160 relative to base 90.

[0348] The process of removing or disassembling the heat pump module 100 from the base 90 according to the embodiment will be described below.

[0349] For ease of explanation, Figure 7 The diagram shows the state in which the door 30 and housing 10 have been removed from the barrel 20 and base 90.

[0350] The following description can be applied with only the door 30 and the front panel 15 of the housing 10 removed from the barrel 20 and the base 90, without removing the top panel 11, left panel 12 and right panel 13 that constitute the housing 10.

[0351] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The lower frame 14 can be removed from the bucket 20 and the base 90.

[0352] As shown in the figure, the lower frame 14 is used to shield the opening portion of the front wall 92 of the base 90 and the opening area between the barrel 20 and the base 90.

[0353] As shown in the figure, the upper end of the lower frame 14 is detachably connected to the lower surface of the front end of the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20.

[0354] Additionally, the lower end of the lower frame 14 is detachably connected to the front wall 163 of the module base 160.

[0355] In particular, as described above, the lower end of the lower frame 14 can be connected to the module base 160 by simply inserting it into the front wall 163, which has a double-wall structure.

[0356] Alternatively, bolts or similar devices can be used to fasten the middle of the lower frame 14 to the front wall 92 of the base 90.

[0357] Therefore, when the upper end of the lower frame 14 is removed from the barrel 20, the middle part of the lower frame 14 is removed from the front wall 92 of the base 90, and the lower end of the lower frame 14 is removed from the front wall 163 of the module base 160, as... Figure 8 As shown, the lower frame 14 can be removed from the bucket 20 and the base 90.

[0358] When the lower frame 14 is removed from the barrel 20 and the base 90, the opening area of ​​the front wall 92 of the base 90 can be exposed to the outside.

[0359] Additionally, this allows the user to observe and approach the heat pump module 100 housed in the interior space of the base 90 through the opening area of ​​the front wall 92.

[0360] In particular, such as Figure 8 As shown, the condenser 120 is configured such that the foremost component among the components disposed on the module base 160 is the condenser 120.

[0361] That is, the condenser 120 is located directly behind the front wall 163 of the module base 160.

[0362] In addition, the condenser 120 is oriented such that the extension direction of its central axis is approximately parallel to the extension direction of the front end wall 163.

[0363] Therefore, at least the condenser 120 of the heat pump module 100 is positioned and oriented in such a way that a user can access the condenser 120 simply by removing the lower frame 14 without performing the process of removing the module base 160 from the base 90.

[0364] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown, the module base 160 can be configured such that the upper edge of the front wall 163 of the module base 160 is located in a vertical position in the up-down direction (UD direction) lower than the central axis of the condenser 120 extending in the left-right direction (Ri-Le direction).

[0365] Therefore, in the front view with the lower frame 14 removed from the dishwasher, the condenser 120 can be partially shielded by the front wall 163 of the module base 160.

[0366] More specifically, the area of ​​the portion of the condenser 120 that is shielded by the front end wall 163 of the module base 160 can be set to be smaller than the area of ​​the portion of the condenser 120 that is not shielded by the front end wall 163 of the module base 160.

[0367] Therefore, users can easily repair and replace the condenser 120 without having to operate other components set on the module base 160 separately.

[0368] In one example, although not shown, a condenser support may be provided between the condenser 120 and the substrate 161 of the module base 160 to support the condenser 120 in a position spaced apart from the substrate 161 in the upward direction (U direction).

[0369] Therefore, although the illustration is omitted, in order to remove the condenser 120 from the substrate 161 for repair and replacement of the condenser 120, the process of removing the condenser support from the condenser 120 and the substrate 161 can be performed before removing the condenser 120.

[0370] However, in order to repair and replace the components of the heat pump module 100 other than the condenser 120, the module base 160 and the components mounted thereon need to extend together from the base 90 in a forward direction.

[0371] However, as described above, the storage tank 41 in the component mounted on the module base 160 is configured such that the storage tank body 411 is connected to the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20.

[0372] In addition, the wash water filter module 47 can be connected to the storage tank 41, which is used to filter foreign objects such as food residue contained in the wash water that are directed into the storage tank 41.

[0373] like Figure 9 As shown, similar to the prior art, the washing water filter module 47 may include a handle body 471 for use as a handle for the user to hold, a plate-shaped screen filter 472 disposed near the storage tank 41, and a mesh filter 473 disposed inside the storage tank 41.

[0374] Specifically, the mesh filter 473 is configured such that its lower end is fixed to the inner surface of the lower end of the water collection portion 412 of the reservoir 41. Therefore, in order to move the reservoir 41 in the front-rear direction (FR direction), the mesh filter 473 should be removed first.

[0375] Similar to existing technology, the handle body 471, the screen filter 472, and the mesh filter 473 are connected to the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20 and the storage tank 41 in an interconnected manner.

[0376] Therefore, as Figure 9 As shown, with the user holding the handle body 471, the user moves the handle body in the upward direction (U direction) relative to the storage tank, so that the handle body 471, the screen filter 472 and the mesh filter 473 can be removed together from the bucket 20 and the storage tank 41.

[0377] In one example, as described above, the valve connection 413 constituting the storage tank 41 is connected to the supply flow path switching valve 465, and the supply flow path switching valve 465 is connected to the storage tank cover 42.

[0378] Therefore, after removing the washing water filter module 47 from the storage tank, the supply flow path switching valve 465 and the storage tank cover 42 can be removed from each other.

[0379] Furthermore, as described above, in the components mounted on the module base 160, the water softener device 72 is configured such that its connecting pipe 724 is fastened to the lower wall 25 of the tank 20 via an insertion port cap 7225.

[0380] Therefore, in order to move the water softener unit 72 in the front-rear direction (FR direction), the following should be performed before moving the water softener unit 72: Figure 9 The process shown is to remove the insertion port cap 7225 from the connection pipe 724.

[0381] Figure 10 and Figure 11 The diagram shows the state after the above-described process, in which the washing water filter module 47 and the supply flow path switching valve 465 are removed from the storage tank 41 and the insertion port cap 7225 is removed from the storage tank body 411.

[0382] However, as shown in the figure, even after the washing water filter module 47 and the supply flow path switching valve 465 have been removed from the storage tank 41, and the insertion port cap 7225 has been removed from the storage tank body 411, the heat pump module 100 cannot be immediately extended from the base 90 completely and in one go.

[0383] More specifically, such as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the storage tank body 411 of the storage tank 41 is connected to the bottom of the bucket with the first connecting groove 256 and the second connecting groove 257 inserted into the storage tank body 411.

[0384] As shown in the figure, the reservoir hole 252 into which the valve connection part 413 is inserted and connected is formed to pass through the first connection groove 256 in the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0385] In addition, the second connecting groove 257 is recessed from the first connecting groove 256 in the downward direction (D direction).

[0386] Therefore, due to the insertion connection between the storage tank body 411 and the second connecting groove 257, and the insertion connection between the valve connecting part 413 and the storage tank hole 252, the storage tank 41 is in a state where it cannot move relative to the bucket 20 in the horizontal direction.

[0387] In addition, the connecting pipe 724 of the water softener device 72 is connected to the tank 20 with its upper end having external threads 7241 passing through the water softener connecting hole 255 and protruding in the upward direction (U direction).

[0388] Furthermore, with the connecting part 715 of the water jacket 71 inserted into the port group 725 of the water softener device 72, the water softener device 72 and the water jacket 71 are connected to each other.

[0389] Thus, through the insertion connection of the connecting pipe 724 of the water softener device 72 and the insertion connection of the connecting part 715 of the water jacket 71, the water softener device 72 becomes a state in which it cannot move relative to the tank 20 in the horizontal direction.

[0390] The dishwasher 1 according to this disclosure may include a unit capable of releasing a stopped state that prevents horizontal movement due to a locked state caused by the insertion connection.

[0391] More specifically, the storage tank 41 and the water softener device 72 are supported on the substrate 161 in a state where it is not possible to move them relative to the substrate 161 of the module base 160 in the horizontal direction, but it is possible to move them relative to the substrate 161 of the module base 160 in the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0392] For example, the lower end of the water collection part 412 of the storage tank 41 can be supported to the mounting rib 162 of the substrate 161 in a simple fit rather than an interference fit, or it can be supported in a state of contact with the mounting rib 162 of the substrate 161.

[0393] Alternatively, for example, the lower end of the base 723 of the water softener device 72 can be connected to and supported by the mounting rib 162 of the substrate 161 in a simple fit rather than an interference fit.

[0394] Therefore, each of the storage tank 41 and the water softener device 72 can be supported in a state in which each of the storage tank 41 and the water softener device 72 can remain stationary relative to the tank under its own weight, but can move in the downward direction (direction D) when a load greater than its own weight is applied.

[0395] Therefore, when a load slightly greater than its own weight is applied to each of the storage tank 41 and the water softener device 72 in the downward direction (D direction), each of the storage tank 41 and the water softener device 72 can be easily moved in the downward direction (D direction).

[0396] In this regard, the relative movement of the storage tank 41 relative to the bucket in the downward direction (D direction) and the relative movement of the water softener device 72 relative to the bucket in the downward direction (D direction) can be set to be different from each other.

[0397] As an example, the relative movement of the storage tank 41 in the vertical direction (UD direction) can be defined as the amount of movement of the storage tank 41 in the downward direction (D direction) to the point that the upper end of the storage tank body 411 and the upper end of the valve connection 413 are completely removed from the storage tank hole 252.

[0398] Alternatively, for example, the relative movement of the water softener device 72 in the vertical direction (UD direction) can be defined as the movement of the water softener device 72 in the downward direction (D direction) to achieve the state of completely removing the external thread 7241 of the connecting pipe 724 from the water softener connecting hole 255 and the state of completely removing the connection portion 715 of the water jacket 71 from the port group 725 of the water softener device 72.

[0399] Therefore, as Figures 12 to 15 As shown, when the user applies a load slightly greater than the weight of the storage tank 41 in the downward direction (D direction), the upper end of the storage tank body 411 and the upper end of the valve connection 413 of the storage tank 41 can be completely removed from the storage tank hole 252.

[0400] As described above, in the top view of the dishwasher, the washing pump 45 and the reservoir 41 are disposed on the base plate 161 such that the washing pump 45 and the reservoir body 411 constituting the upper end of the reservoir 41 partially overlap each other.

[0401] Therefore, a structure can be formed such that the tank body 411 is not in direct contact with the washing pump 45 before the upper end of the tank body 411 of the tank 41 is completely removed from the tank hole 252, but the tank 41 is stably supported by the washing pump 45 after the tank body 411 has been removed from the tank hole 252.

[0402] Similarly, when a user applies a load slightly greater than the weight of the water softener device 72 in the downward direction (D direction), the external thread 7241 of the connecting pipe 724 can be completely removed from the water softener connecting hole 255, and the connection portion 715 of the water jacket 71 can be completely removed from the port assembly 725.

[0403] With the storage tank 41 and water softener device 72 completely removed from the tank 20 and the water softener device 72 completely removed from the water jacket 71 as described above, a force is applied to the heat pump module 100 to pull the front end wall 163 of the module base 160 only in the forward direction. The heat pump module can then extend completely and in one go from the base 90 in the forward direction while the storage tank 41, water softener device 72, and washing pump 45 are mounted on the module base 160. Figure 16 As shown. In this way, all components of the heat pump module 100, along with the storage tank 41, the water softener device 72, and the washing pump 45, can be removed together from the machine room of the base 90.

[0404] However, although the storage tank 41 is usually removed from the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20, the upper end of the storage tank body 411 and the upper end of the valve connection 413 that constitutes the uppermost end of the storage tank 41 are in a state very close to the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20 in the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0405] In addition, the water softener device 72 is usually removed from the lower wall 25 of the tank 20, but the upper end of the connecting pipe 724 that constitutes the uppermost part of the water softener device 72 is very close to the lower wall 25 of the tank 20 in the vertical direction (UD direction).

[0406] Considering that the uppermost end of the storage tank 41 and the uppermost end of the water softener device 72 are very close to the lower wall 25 of the barrel 20 in the vertical direction (UD direction), the shape of the front wall 92 of the base 90 can be formed.

[0407] For example, such as Figure 16 As shown, an opening area can be formed on the front side of the base 90 along the vertical direction (UD direction) from the ground to the lower wall 25 of the tank 20, so that collisions and interference between the base 90 and the uppermost end of the storage tank 41 and the uppermost end of the water softener device 72 will not occur.

[0408] Such an opening area can extend continuously to the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0409] In this respect, the front wall 92 of the base 90 may not be fully open and may have a partially open shape. As an example, the front wall 92 of the base 90 may be formed such that a wall portion exists at each of the left and right ends of the front surface of the base 90, while no wall portion exists in the intermediate region between them.

[0410] Additionally, in the front view of the dishwasher, the portion of the front wall 92 present at its right end can be formed as an L-shape that is inverted both horizontally and vertically.

[0411] Additionally, in the front view of the dishwasher, the portion of the front wall 92 present at its left end can be formed as an inverted L-shape.

[0412] Furthermore, in the front view of the dishwasher, the shape of the portion of the front wall 92 present at its left end and the shape of the portion of the front wall 92 present at its right end can be symmetrical to each other.

[0413] In addition, the width of the portion of the front wall 92 formed at the left end and the portion of the front wall 92 formed at the right end in the front-rear direction (FR direction) can be equal to or slightly less than the width of the left and right ends of the front end wall 163 in the front-rear direction (FR direction) as described above.

[0414] Therefore, the slot through which the substrate 161 of the module base 160 and the front end wall 163 can pass can be defined between the portion of the front wall 92 formed at the left end and the portion of the front wall 92 formed at the right end.

[0415] Because the front wall 92 of the base 90 is configured to have such a shape, when the module base 160 extends from the base 90 in the forward direction, the sliding movement of the module base 160 in the front-rear direction (FR direction) can be effectively guided.

[0416] Furthermore, when the module base 160 retracts into the base 90 in the rearward direction for installation in the machine room of the base 90, the left and right ends of the front wall 163 of the module base 160 can be connected to the front wall 92 of the base 90.

[0417] Therefore, the front wall 163 of the module base 160 and the front wall 92 of the base 90 are connected to each other to prevent relative movement of the module base 160 relative to the base 90 in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) and the up-down direction (UD direction) while the heat pump module 100 is installed in the base 90.

[0418] Additionally, the front wall 163 of the module base 160 and the front wall 92 of the base 90 can be used as stops to prevent the heat pump module 100 from moving relative to the base 90.

[0419] 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 defining a machine room and disposed below the barrel; A storage tank is disposed below the bucket and configured to store washing water to be supplied to the bucket. as well as A heat pump module, located in the machine room and configured to heat the washing water to be supplied to the storage tank. The heat pump module is connected to the base and configured to extend from or retract into the base in the front-to-back direction.

2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The heat pump module is configured to extend from or retract into the base in a sliding manner in the front-rear direction.

3. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The heat pump module includes: The compressor is used to compress refrigerant; A condenser configured to receive refrigerant that has flowed through the compressor and to heat the wash water to be supplied to the tank; An evaporator configured to receive refrigerant that has flowed through the condenser; and A module base, wherein the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator are all mounted on the module base. The module base is configured to extend from the base. and / or The upper end of the storage tank is connected to the lower wall of the barrel. The lower end of the storage tank is disposed on the module base, so that the storage tank can move relative to the module base in the vertical direction.

4. The dishwasher according to claim 3, wherein, With the storage tank, compressor, condenser, and evaporator mounted together on the module base, the storage tank, compressor, condenser, and evaporator extend from and retract into the base together. The storage tank moves downward relative to the bucket before the storage tank, the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator extend together from the base.

5. The dishwasher according to claim 4, wherein, The dishwasher also includes a wash pump configured to pressurize wash water stored in the reservoir and supply the pressurized wash water to the tub. The storage tank and the washing pump are mounted on the module base such that their upper ends partially overlap when viewed from above. The upper end of the storage tank is removed from the lower wall of the barrel before the storage tank, the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator extend together from the base.

6. The dishwasher according to claim 3, wherein, The dishwasher also includes a water softener configured to soften the washing water to be supplied to the storage tank. The water softener device is connected to the module base in a manner that allows it to move relative to the module base in the vertical direction. and / or In the case where the water softener device is installed on the module base together with the compressor, the condenser and the evaporator, the water softener device, the compressor, the condenser and the evaporator extend from the base and retract into the base.

7. The dishwasher according to claim 3, wherein, The condenser is located in front of the storage tank, and The condenser, which is mounted on the module base, is oriented such that the longitudinal direction of the condenser is the left-right direction.

8. The dishwasher according to claim 7, wherein, The module base includes: A substrate, the substrate providing a mounting area on which the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator are mounted; and A front end wall, which is attached to the front end of the substrate and protrudes upward from the substrate. When viewed directly from the dishwasher, the condenser is partially shielded by the front wall, and Specifically, when viewed directly from the dishwasher, the area of ​​the portion of the condenser shielded by the front wall is smaller than the area of ​​the portion of the condenser not shielded by the front wall.

9. The dishwasher according to claim 3, wherein, The heat pump module retracts into the base through the front wall of the base.

10. The dishwasher according to claim 9, wherein, The module base includes: A substrate, the substrate providing a mounting area on which the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator are mounted; and A front end wall, which is attached to the front end of the substrate and protrudes upward from the substrate. When the heat pump module has retracted into the base and has been installed in the base, the front end wall is connected to the front wall of the base. and / or When the heat pump module has been installed in the base, the front wall of the base prevents the front end wall from moving horizontally. and / or When the heat pump module has been installed in the base, the front wall of the base prevents the front end wall from moving upward.

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