A converter for heat recovery, a heat recovery device including the same, and a dishwasher

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of inverter for heat recovery, heat recovery device comprising the inverter and dish washer, the inverter for cooperating with overflow pipe of dish washer, inverter is sleeved in overflow pipe outside and is formed annular flow channel continuously along axial between with overflow pipe, inverter top is opened and its top is higher than overflow pipe upper portion overflow port, inverter lower portion is equipped with at least one fluid inlet, fluid inlet is used to guide low-temperature waste heat water to enter inverter, and along annular flow channel passage rises to the overflow port of overflow pipe and discharges. By setting inverter wrapping overflow pipe, prevent upper layer high-temperature waste heat water from being discharged directly from overflow port, force it to sink and mix, low-temperature waste heat water after heat exchange enters annular flow channel by inverter bottom fluid inlet, rises along overflow pipe outer wall and discharges from overflow port, forced convection breaks temperature stratification, so that water temperature in heat recovery water tank is more uniform.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of dishwasher technology, and in particular to a heat recovery converter. Background Technology

[0002] Dishwashers clean dishes automatically, saving labor and providing a more hygienic cleaning effect. The dishwasher's workflow mainly consists of two stages: a main wash and a rinse. The main wash uses high-pressure circulating water to effectively remove food residue and grease from the dishes, while the rinse uses high-temperature clean water for final cleaning and disinfection.

[0003] During the dishwasher's rinsing process, tap water enters the rinsing tank and is heated by a heater, quickly raising the water temperature to over 82°C. The rinsing pump then extracts this high-temperature wastewater (above 82°C) and sprays it onto the tableware surface via the spray arms. This high-temperature rinsing water returns to the main wash tank after cleaning the tableware, increasing its volume. Water in the main wash tank is then drawn out by a high-flow, high-lift main wash pump and sprayed again onto the tableware surface via the main wash spray arms, rinsing away food residue and grease. The cleaned water then flows back into the main wash tank, achieving a cycle of reuse.

[0004] However, traditional dishwashers generate a large amount of high-temperature wastewater during the washing process, which is usually discharged directly, resulting in energy waste. In existing technologies, some dishwashers use a heat recovery tank to collect the wastewater generated during the washing process. The rinse water entering the rinsing tank first flows through a heat exchange coil located within the heat recovery tank for heat exchange, absorbing heat from the wastewater. This raises the temperature of the tap water in the heat exchange coil, reducing the temperature difference and lowering the heating energy consumption of the rinsing tank. However, because the wastewater easily forms temperature stratification within the heat recovery tank (high-temperature wastewater on top, low-temperature wastewater on the bottom) and easily overflows from the high-level overflow port, the heat exchange efficiency is low, and heat recovery is insufficient. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a dishwasher structure that can effectively break down temperature stratification and prevent the high-temperature wastewater in the upper layer of the heat recovery tank from being directly discharged from the high-level overflow port, thereby improving heat recovery efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a converter for heat recovery.

[0006] This utility model provides a technical solution in which a converter is sleeved outside the overflow pipe and forms an axially continuous annular flow channel with the overflow pipe. The top of the converter is open and its top is higher than the overflow port at the top of the overflow pipe, effectively preventing the high-temperature waste hot water in the upper layer of the heat recovery water tank from being directly discharged from the overflow port. Instead, the waste hot water gradually settles to the lower layer of the heat recovery water tank, completing the mixing and heat transfer of the upper hot water to the low-temperature waste hot water layer at the bottom of the heat recovery water tank, thereby raising the temperature of the bottom water. The lower part of the converter is provided with at least one fluid inlet, which is used to guide the low-temperature waste hot water into the converter and rise along the annular flow channel to the overflow port of the overflow pipe for discharge, thereby achieving the balance of heat and temperature maintenance in the upper, middle and lower layers of the heat recovery water tank.

[0007] Furthermore, the fluid inlet can be any one of the following: multiple equally spaced water inlet holes, a spiral flow channel, a mesh-like porous structure, a continuous annular opening, a combination of an intermittent annular opening and a fixed support structure, or a corrugated annular flow channel structure.

[0008] Furthermore, the converter is provided with a first limiting member on its outer periphery, which is used to cooperate with the heat recovery water tank for installation.

[0009] Furthermore, the converter includes a converter tube and a base connected to the bottom of the converter tube. Both the converter tube and the base are cylindrical, and the radius of the base is larger than the radius of the converter tube.

[0010] Furthermore, the lower half of the base has a cylindrical extension structure, which is used to extend into the waste hot water drain seat at the bottom of the heat recovery water tank for a sealed connection.

[0011] Furthermore, the base is provided with multiple reinforcing ribs, which are evenly distributed in a spiral shape on the inner wall of the base.

[0012] This utility model also provides a technical solution, including an overflow pipe and the above-mentioned converter. The upper part of the overflow pipe is provided with an overflow port, and the interior of the overflow pipe is a hollow flow guiding channel. The converter is coaxially sleeved outside the overflow pipe and forms an axially continuous annular flow channel with the overflow pipe. The top end of the converter extends to a position higher than the overflow port.

[0013] Furthermore, the converter and the overflow pipe are either integrally formed or detachably connected.

[0014] Furthermore, a second limiting member is provided on the outer periphery of the overflow pipe, which is used to cooperate with the waste hot water drain seat at the bottom of the heat recovery water tank for installation.

[0015] This utility model also provides a technical solution, including: a main wash water tank and a heat recovery water tank; the aforementioned heat recovery device, wherein the heat recovery device is disposed in the heat recovery water tank; a heat exchange coil, disposed in the heat recovery water tank, for exchanging heat with waste hot water to increase the temperature of the rinsing water flowing to the rinsing water tank in the heat exchange coil; a horizontal overflow pipe, connecting the main wash water tank and the heat recovery water tank, for overflowing waste hot water from the main wash water tank to the heat recovery water tank; the heat recovery device is used to guide low-temperature waste hot water to enter from the bottom of the converter and rise along the annular flow channel to the overflow port for discharge.

[0016] Furthermore, the bottom of the main washing water tank is provided with a slag-separating drainage seat, which includes a slag-separating mesh and a first water collection tank for collecting waste hot water; the bottom of the heat recovery water tank is provided with a waste hot water drainage seat for discharging waste hot water.

[0017] Furthermore, the slag-separating drain seat and the waste hot water drain seat are connected by a connecting pipe for discharging waste hot water when the dishwasher finishes operating.

[0018] Furthermore, the height of the horizontal overflow pipe is greater than or equal to the height of the overflow outlet.

[0019] Furthermore, the top of the heat recovery water tank is provided with a removable sealing cover to prevent the circulating water from the main wash water tank sprayed on the tableware during the operation of the main wash water pump from directly entering the heat recovery water tank, which would cause the main wash water tank to run out of water and block the heat loss in the heat recovery water tank.

[0020] The above technical solution has the following beneficial effects:

[0021] This invention uses a converter to enclose the overflow pipe, preventing the high-temperature wastewater from being discharged directly from the overflow port. This forces the wastewater to sink and mix, allowing the higher-temperature wastewater that just overflowed from the main washing water tank to settle at the bottom of the heat recovery water tank, thus transferring heat between the high-temperature wastewater and the lower-temperature wastewater at the lower level. The cooled wastewater, after heat exchange, enters the annular flow channel through the fluid inlet at the bottom of the converter, rises along the outer wall of the overflow pipe, and is discharged from the overflow port. This forced convection breaks down temperature stratification, making the water temperature and heat in the heat recovery water tank more uniform and improving the heat absorption efficiency of the heat exchange coil. The overflow pipe maintains the water level in the tank, while the converter ensures that only the water that has undergone sufficient heat exchange is discharged first, avoiding heat energy waste. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The disclosure of this utility model will become more readily understood by referring to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this utility model. In the drawings:

[0023] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a dishwasher with a heat recovery device in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat recovery device in one embodiment of this utility model;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the converter structure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the dishwasher tank in one embodiment of this utility model;

[0027] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher with a heat recovery device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher with a heat recovery device in one embodiment of the present invention from another angle;

[0029] Figure 7 This is a front view of a heat recovery device in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Reference table for attached figures:

[0031] 1. Main washing water tank; 2. Heat recovery water tank; 3. Heat exchange coil; 4. Horizontal overflow pipe; 5. Overflow pipe; 501 Overflow port; 502. Second limiting component; 6. Converter; 601. Converter pipe; 602. Base; 6021. Fluid inlet; 603. Annular flow channel; 604. Reinforcing rib; 605. First limiting component; 606. Extension structure; 7. Waste hot water drain seat; 701. Second water collection tank; 7011. Waste hot water inlet; 702. Second sealing pipe; 7021. Waste hot water outlet; 8. Vertical drain pipe; 9. Slag-screening drain seat; 901. First water collection tank; 902. First sealing pipe; 9021. Drain outlet; 903. Slag-screening mesh; 10. Dishwasher sink; 11. Connecting pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The specific embodiments of this utility model will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0033] It is readily understood that, based on the technical solution of this utility model, various structural and implementation methods can be interchanged by those skilled in the art without altering the essential spirit of this utility model. Therefore, the following detailed embodiments and accompanying drawings are merely illustrative descriptions of the technical solution of this utility model and should not be considered as the entirety of this utility model or as limitations or restrictions on the technical solution of this utility model.

[0034] The directional terms such as up, down, left, right, front, back, front, back, top, and bottom mentioned or possibly used in this specification are defined relative to the structures shown in the accompanying drawings. These are relative concepts and may therefore vary depending on their location and usage. Therefore, these or other directional terms should not be interpreted as restrictive. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0035] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meanings of the above-mentioned components within this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0036] In some embodiments of this utility model, the heat recovery converter 6 is used to cooperate with the overflow pipe 5 of the dishwasher. The converter 6 is sleeved outside the overflow pipe 5 and forms an axially continuous annular flow channel 603 between the converter 6 and the overflow pipe 5. The top of the converter 6 is open and its top is higher than the overflow port of the upper part of the overflow pipe 5. The lower part of the converter 6 is provided with at least one fluid inlet 6021. The fluid inlet 6021 is used to guide the low temperature waste hot water into the converter 6 and rise along the annular flow channel 603 to the overflow port of the overflow pipe 5 for discharge.

[0037] Specifically, the overflow pipe 5 is vertically installed in the heat recovery water tank 2, and has an overflow port at the top to control the water level in the tank. When the water level exceeds the height of the overflow port, the excess water is automatically discharged to maintain a constant liquid level in the tank.

[0038] The overflow outlet is usually located in the upper layer of the water tank (the area where high-temperature hot water accumulates). However, due to the enclosure of the converter 6, the high-temperature wastewater cannot directly enter the overflow outlet, but is forced to flow downwards, breaking the natural temperature stratification. The converter 6 is fitted outside the overflow pipe 5, forming an axially continuous narrow annular space between them, serving as an upward channel for the low-temperature wastewater. The bottom fluid inlet 6021 is located on the side of the base 602 of the converter 6, guiding the low-temperature wastewater that has completed heat exchange into the annular flow channel 603. The high-temperature wastewater from the main wash water tank 1 enters the upper layer of the heat recovery water tank 2 through the horizontal overflow pipe 4, and will naturally float due to its lower density. The presence of the converter 6 prevents its direct overflow, forcing the high-temperature wastewater to sink and mix with the lower low-temperature wastewater, eliminating the vertical temperature difference and improving the overall heat exchange efficiency. After the cold water in the heat exchange coil 3 absorbs heat from the water tank, the low-temperature wastewater enters the annular flow channel 603 through the fluid inlet 6021, and rises along the narrow channel to the overflow outlet for discharge. This design ensures that only the low-temperature wastewater that has undergone sufficient heat exchange can be discharged first, preventing the high-temperature wastewater from escaping through a short circuit.

[0039] Work process: (1) High-temperature waste water injection: The waste water from the main washing water tank 1 enters the top of the heat recovery water tank 2 and is blocked by the converter 6. (2) Forced mixing: The high-temperature waste water sinks down and mixes with the low-temperature waste water around the coil, enhancing the heat transfer to the coil. (3) Low-temperature waste water discharge: The low-temperature waste water after heat exchange enters the annular flow channel 603 through the fluid inlet 6021, rises to the overflow port and is discharged, forming a one-way circulation.

[0040] Technical Benefits: Forced convection eliminates temperature stratification, ensuring continuous and uniform contact between the coil and the hot wastewater, thus improving the heat exchange rate. The annular flow channel 603 and fluid inlet 6021 structure ensure controllable water flow path, preventing hot wastewater from overflowing without heat exchange. The sleeve design saves space, and the narrow structure of the annular flow channel 603 enhances water flow velocity, further promoting mixing. In the dishwasher, this device maintains the heat recovery tank 2 at a consistently high and uniform temperature, allowing the cold water in the heat exchange coil 3 to heat up rapidly, reducing external heating energy consumption and achieving energy savings. Simultaneously, the stable drainage of the overflow pipe 5 ensures system water balance, and the guiding effect of the converter 6 significantly improves the heat recovery rate (expected to reach over 90%). Through physical isolation and directional flow guidance, the converter 6 and overflow pipe 5 reconstruct the thermodynamic distribution within the tank, transforming passive overflow into active heat exchange, a key innovation for improving energy efficiency.

[0041] In some embodiments of this invention, a tap water inlet pipe is provided at one end of the heat exchange coil 3, and a tap water outlet pipe is provided at the other end. This design not only facilitates the introduction of tap water but also ensures a stable water supply. Tap water flows in continuously through this inlet, providing a continuous and stable water source for the normal operation of the device. Meanwhile, the tap water inlet pipe is located on the side wall of the heat recovery water tank 2. This layout saves space, facilitates installation and maintenance, and avoids direct contact with waste hot water, ensuring the purity of the tap water. Correspondingly, the tap water outlet pipe is also located on the side wall of the heat recovery water tank 2. This design allows the tap water after heat exchange to be smoothly discharged and enter the rinsing water tank for use in subsequent rinsing processes.

[0042] In some embodiments of this utility model, the bottom of the main wash water tank 1 is provided with a slag-separating drain seat 9 for drainage and slag separation, and the bottom of the heat recovery water tank 2 is provided with a wastewater drain seat. The slag-separating drain seat 9 and the wastewater drain seat are external devices of the main wash water tank 1 and the heat recovery water tank 2, respectively, and the two drain seats are connected by a connecting pipe 11. When the dishwasher finishes working, all the waste hot water in the main wash water tank 1 and the waste hot water in the heat recovery water tank 2 need to be drained. At this time, the vertical drain pipe 8 in the main wash water tank 1 and the vertical overflow pipe in the heat recovery water tank 2 need to be lifted so that the waste hot water in the main wash water tank 1 can flow through the connecting pipe 11 to the wastewater drain seat at the bottom of the heat recovery water tank 2, and then be discharged into the sewer through the waste hot water outlet 7021 on the wastewater drain seat. When the dishwasher is working, the main wash water tank 1 delivers waste hot water to the heat recovery water tank 2 through the horizontal overflow pipe 4 to exchange heat with the heat exchange coil 3. Since the final step of each dishwashing process requires rinsing with clean water, the water in the rinsing arm will enter the main wash water tank 1, causing the water level in the main wash water tank 1 to rise until the liquid level exceeds the opening of the horizontal overflow pipe 4 inside the main wash water tank 1. The waste hot water overflows through the horizontal overflow pipe 4 into the heat recovery water tank 2, and the water level in the heat recovery water tank 2 also rises accordingly. When the liquid level in the heat recovery water tank 2 exceeds the overflow port of the vertical overflow pipe, the low-temperature waste hot water that has absorbed the residual heat from the heat exchange coil 3 overflows into the sewer through the overflow port of the vertical overflow pipe.

[0043] Specifically, during the main wash phase: When the dishwasher is working, the main wash water tank 1 generates waste hot water. The circulating water pump transports the water from the main wash water tank 1 to the main wash spray arms through the circulating water pipe to clean the dishes. After cleaning, the water flows back to the main wash water tank 1 after being filtered for impurities by the filter screen 903. As the rinsing process proceeds, the high-temperature clean water from the rinsing water tank flows into the main wash water tank 1, causing the water level to rise. When the water level exceeds the opening of the horizontal overflow pipe 4 inside the main wash water tank 1, the waste hot water overflows through the horizontal overflow pipe 4 into the heat recovery water tank 2. During the heat recovery phase: Inside the heat recovery water tank 2, the tap water flowing to the rinsing water tank in the heat exchange coil 3 exchanges heat with the waste hot water outside the coil, raising the water temperature before flowing into the rinsing water tank for use by the rinsing arms. The high-temperature waste hot water from the main wash water tank 1 enters the upper layer of the heat recovery water tank 2 through the horizontal overflow pipe 4, and naturally floats due to its lower density. The presence of the converter 6 prevents the wastewater from being discharged directly from the higher overflow port. The high-temperature wastewater is forced to sink and mix with the lower low-temperature wastewater for heat exchange, eliminating the vertical temperature difference and improving the overall heat exchange efficiency. After the cold water in the heat exchange coil 3 absorbs the heat from the wastewater in the heat recovery tank 2, the low-temperature wastewater enters the annular flow channel 603 through the fluid inlet 6021, rises along the narrow channel to the overflow port, and is discharged into the sewer through the wastewater outlet 7021 on the side wall of the second sealing pipe 702 at the lower end of the overflow pipe 5. When the dishwasher finishes its operation, the vertical drain pipe 8 in the main wash tank 1 and the overflow pipe 5 in the heat recovery tank 2 are lifted. The wastewater in the main wash tank 1 flows through the connecting pipe 11 to the wastewater drain seat 7 at the bottom of the heat recovery tank 2, and is then discharged into the sewer through the wastewater outlet 7021.

[0044] A first opening is made on the upper part of the side wall of the main washing water tank 1, and a second opening is made at the corresponding position of the heat recovery water tank 2. A horizontal overflow pipe 4 horizontally connects the first opening and the second opening. The lower edge of its inlet is at a height of H1, and the lower edge of the overflow outlet of the overflow pipe 5 is at a height of H2, where H1 ≥ H2. The overflow pipe 5 is a vertically arranged circular pipe, and the distance between its upper overflow outlet and the top wall of the heat recovery water tank 2 is 1 / 10 to 1 / 5 of the total height of the tank. The converter 6 includes a converter pipe 601 and a base 602 connected to the bottom of the converter pipe 601. Both are cylindrical, with the radius of the base 602 larger than that of the converter pipe 601. They are integrally formed. The inner diameter D1 of the converter pipe 601 is 3-5 mm larger than the outer diameter D2 of the overflow pipe 5, forming an annular flow channel 603. The axial length L of the annular flow channel 603 is ≥ 55D2. The lower end of the base 602 is sealed to the drain outlet 9021 of the heat recovery water tank 2 and the waste hot water drain seat 7 with an interference fit, forming a water collection cavity. Fluid inlets 6021 are located on the lower side of the base 602, with 2-4 in number. The high-temperature waste hot water from the main washing water tank 1 enters the upper layer of the heat recovery water tank 2 through the horizontal overflow pipe 4, and naturally floats due to its lower density. The presence of the converter 6 prevents direct overflow, forcing the high-temperature waste hot water to sink and mix with the lower-temperature waste hot water, eliminating the vertical temperature difference and improving the overall heat exchange efficiency. After the cold water in heat exchange coil 3 absorbs heat from the water tank, the low-temperature waste hot water enters the annular flow channel 603 through fluid inlet 6021 and rises along the narrow channel to the overflow outlet for discharge. This design ensures that only the low-temperature waste hot water that has undergone sufficient heat exchange can be discharged first, preventing the high-temperature waste hot water from escaping through a short circuit.

[0045] During dishwasher operation, the wastewater in the main wash tank 1 is first effectively diverted to the heat recovery tank 2 through the horizontal overflow pipe 5. Simultaneously, this wastewater is also introduced into the main wash spray arm via the circulating water pipe during the dishwasher's workflow, achieving water resource recycling. Specifically, driven by the circulating water pump, the wastewater first undergoes fine filtration through the slag-filtering screen 903 installed at the upper end of the slag-filtering drain seat 9 to ensure water purity. Subsequently, the filtered wastewater flows into the circulating water pipe at the lower end of the slag-filtering drain seat 9, and then into the main wash spray arm. During this process, the main wash spray arm reuses this water to clean the dishes. After cleaning, the water passes through the filter screen again and enters the main wash tank 1, preparing for the next cycle of use. This recycling process aims to improve water resource utilization efficiency while ensuring the cleanliness of the dishes.

[0046] In some embodiments of this utility model, the fluid inlet 6021 is any one of the following: multiple equally spaced water inlet holes, a spiral flow channel, a mesh-like porous structure, a continuous annular opening, a combination of an intermittent annular opening and a fixed support structure, or a corrugated annular flow channel structure.

[0047] Specifically, the system features multiple evenly spaced water inlets: Circular through-holes with a diameter of 3-8mm are evenly spaced around the circumference of the base 602 to ensure flow rate; the spacing between the holes is 1.5-3 times the hole diameter to ensure structural strength, creating uniform water inlet and avoiding localized eddies; a spiral flow channel: continuous spiral grooves are machined on the inner wall of the base 602 to generate swirling flow and enhance mixing; a mesh-like porous structure: a mesh is formed using stamping or casting processes to homogenize water flow while intercepting large particles of impurities; continuous annular openings: a complete annular gap design with a width of 8-15mm ensures sufficient flow area and provides maximum flow capacity; an intermittent annular opening combination structure: alternating opening sections and support sections achieve flow guidance while ensuring structural rigidity; and corrugated flow channels: a periodic corrugated structure enhances fluid turbulence and improves heat exchange efficiency.

[0048] In some embodiments of this utility model, a first limiting member 605 is provided on the outer periphery of the converter 6. The first limiting member 605 is used to cooperate with the heat recovery water tank 2 for installation. The limiting member is used to cooperate with the corresponding structure of the heat recovery water tank 2 or other related components to limit the displacement of the converter 6 during installation, ensure the accuracy of the installation position of the converter 6, and enhance the stability of the converter 6 during operation, preventing it from shaking or rotating. Specifically, a limiting member is provided on the outer periphery of the converter 6. This limiting member is a protruding structure distributed around the outer periphery of the converter tube 601. A hole is provided at the bottom of the heat recovery water tank 2, and the first limiting member 605 cooperates with the edge of this hole, overlapping the edge of the hole. During installation, the converter 6 is placed into the heat recovery water tank 2, and the protrusion overlaps the edge of the hole, thereby limiting the position of the converter 6. This limiting method is not only easy to operate, but also effectively limits the displacement of the converter 6 in the horizontal and vertical directions, ensuring the normal operation of the heat recovery device. In addition, the limiting components can also be designed in other forms, such as setting multiple spaced limiting blocks around the outer periphery of the converter 6, which can also achieve the limiting effect.

[0049] In some embodiments of this utility model, the converter 6 includes a converter tube 601 and a base 602 connected to the bottom of the converter tube 601. Both the converter tube 601 and the base 602 are cylindrical, and the radius of the base 602 is larger than the radius of the converter tube 601.

[0050] Specifically, the converter 6 consists of a cylindrical converter tube 601 and a cylindrical base 602, which are connected by an integral molding process (such as casting or welding) to ensure structural sealing. The radius (R1) of the base 602 is larger than the radius (R2) of the converter tube 601, forming a radially expanded structure. The base 602 is sealed to the flange of the waste hot water drain seat 7 of the heat recovery water tank 2 and fixed by bolts. The converter tube 601 (upper narrow cylinder) is sleeved outside the overflow pipe 5, forming an annular flow channel 603, which guides the low-temperature water to rise to the overflow port. The base 602 (lower wide cylinder) has a radius larger than the converter tube 601 and is sealed to the drain seat of the heat recovery water tank 2. Its side is provided with a fluid inlet 6021 as the inlet for low-temperature water. After the high-temperature waste hot water enters the heat recovery water tank 2 from the main wash water tank 1, it is blocked from flowing directly to the overflow port because it is wrapped around the converter 6, and is forced to sink downwards to mix with the low-temperature zone. The cooled water, having completed heat exchange, enters through the fluid inlet 6021 of the base 602, rises along the narrow annular flow channel 603 between the exchange pipe 601 and the overflow pipe 5, and finally exits from the overflow port. The enlarged design of the base 602 extends the downward path of the high-temperature water, promoting forced convection with the cooled water at the bottom of the tank and significantly reducing temperature stratification. The combination of the narrow exchange pipe 601 and the wide base 602 forms a "funnel" structure, ensuring smooth upward movement of the cooled water while preventing short-circuiting of the high-temperature water, prioritizing the discharge of the cooled water to extend the heat exchange time. The base 602 is sealed to the tank drain seat to prevent leakage of unexchanged hot water, while maintaining system water balance and pressure stability. The compact cylindrical structure and the annular flow channel 603 design achieve efficient flow guidance within a limited space, making it suitable for miniaturized devices such as dishwashers.

[0051] In addition, the main purpose of the wide base 602 is to achieve a sealed connection with the wastewater drain seat of the heat recovery water tank 2 (usually requiring matching drain seat size to avoid leakage), rather than directly participating in fluid guidance. The larger radius facilitates the arrangement of multiple fluid inlets 6021 on the side of the base 602, increasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the cryogenic water inlet and reducing flow resistance. The constant narrow annular flow channel 603 (non-constricting) between the narrow converter pipe 601 and the overflow pipe 5 maintains the stability of the rising velocity of the cryogenic water by limiting the flow cross-sectional area, thus avoiding turbulence.

[0052] In some embodiments of this utility model, the lower half of the base 602 is a cylindrical extension structure 606, which is used to extend into the waste hot water drain seat 7 at the bottom of the heat recovery water tank 2 for a sealed connection. Specifically, the outer diameter of the lower half of the base 602 is adapted to the inner diameter of the waste hot water drain seat 7 of the heat recovery water tank 2, and the length of the extension structure is determined according to the depth of the waste hot water drain seat 7 of the heat recovery water tank 2. During installation, the lower half of the base 602 is slowly inserted into the waste hot water drain seat 7 and fixed and limited by the first limiting member 605 on the converter 6.

[0053] In some embodiments of this utility model, the top of the converter 6 is higher than the overflow port of the overflow pipe 5.

[0054] Specifically, because the top of the converter 6 is higher than the overflow port, the high-temperature wastewater cannot directly pass over the top of the converter 6 to enter the overflow pipe 5. It must descend to the bottom of the converter 6 before entering the annular flow channel 603. This structure strengthens the forced downward path of the high-temperature water, allowing it to fully mix with the low-temperature water in the lower layer of the tank, avoiding thermal short circuits (the high-temperature water overflowing before sufficient heat exchange). The heat-exchanged low-temperature water enters the annular flow channel 603 through the fluid inlet 6021 of the base 602 and rises along the channel between the converter pipe 601 and the overflow pipe 5. Because the top of the converter 6 is higher than the overflow port, only the low-temperature water that rises to the height of the overflow port can overflow, ensuring that only low-temperature water that has completed heat exchange is discharged. The overflow port height determines the water level in the tank, and the design of the top of the converter 6 being higher than the overflow port prevents water level fluctuations from causing accidental overflow of high-temperature water, maintaining system stability.

[0055] In some embodiments of this utility model, the base 602 is provided with a plurality of reinforcing ribs 604, which are evenly distributed in a spiral shape on the inner wall of the base 602. The plurality of reinforcing ribs 604 (usually 4-6) are evenly distributed in a spiral shape on the inner wall of the base 602, the inclination angle (α) of the reinforcing ribs 604 is 30°-45° (preferably 35°), and the height (h) of the reinforcing ribs 604 is 1 / 3-1 / 2 of the inner cavity height of the base 602. The reinforcing ribs 604 are integrally cast with the base 602. The reinforcing ribs 604 are mainly used to enhance the structural strength of the base 602 and improve the overall stability of the converter 6 to adapt to the water flow pressure and mechanical vibration inside the dishwasher.

[0056] In some embodiments of this utility model, a vertical drain pipe 8 is provided in the main wash water tank 1, and a slag-separating drain seat 9 is connected to the bottom of the main wash water tank 1. The slag-separating drain seat 9 includes a first water collection tank 901 and a first sealing pipe 902 disposed at the bottom of the first water collection tank 901. A drain outlet 9021 is opened on the side wall of the first sealing pipe 902. The lower end of the vertical drain pipe 8 is inserted into the first sealing pipe 902 to seal the first sealing pipe 902. A circulating water pipe is opened on the side wall of the first water collection tank 901, and a circulating water pump is provided at the other end of the circulating water pipe. When the main wash water tank 1 is working, the circulating water pump transports the water in the main wash water tank 1 to the main wash spray arm through the circulating water pipe for recycling. The slag-separating drainage seat 9 also includes a slag-separating screen 903, which is connected to the top of the first water collection tank 901. When the main washing water tank 1 is working, the water in the main washing water tank 1 passes through the slag-separating screen 903 and then through the first water collection tank 901 into the circulating water pipe under the action of the circulating water pump.

[0057] Specifically, the design of the slag-filtering drainage seat 9 comprises three main components: a slag-filtering mesh 903, a first water collection tank 901, and a first sealing pipe 902, which are tightly connected from top to bottom. The slag-filtering mesh 903 is cleverly placed between the cavity of the main washing water tank 1 and the first water collection tank 901, ensuring that the waste hot water is effectively filtered as it flows through, thus smoothly entering the first water collection tank 901. The cavities of the main washing water tank 1, the first water collection tank 901, and the first sealing pipe 902 are interconnected, forming a smooth liquid channel.

[0058] The vertical drain pipe 8 first passes through the slag screen 903, then through the cavity of the first water collection tank 901, and finally is precisely inserted into the first sealing pipe 902, ensuring a perfect fit with the shape of the first sealing pipe 902 and achieving a tight connection through an interference fit. This design aims to prevent water from leaking from the gap between the first sealing pipe 902 and the vertical drain pipe 8 during dishwasher operation, ensuring that water can only flow out from the drain port 9021 on the side wall of the first sealing pipe 902, maintaining the normal operation of the dishwasher.

[0059] When the dishwasher finishes its cycle, the vertical drain pipe 8 can be easily removed from the first sealing pipe 902. At this time, water can flow sequentially through the first water collection tank 901 and the first sealing pipe 902, and finally drain from the drain port 9021 on the side wall of the first sealing pipe 902, achieving convenient drainage. While the dishwasher is operating, the wastewater in the first water collection tank 901 flows out through the circulating water pipe on the side wall of the first water collection tank 901 under the action of the circulating water pump, participating in the dishwasher's water circulation process. At this time, since the vertical drain pipe 8 is inserted into the first sealing pipe 902, the first sealing pipe 902 at the bottom of the first water collection tank 901 is effectively blocked, ensuring that water can only flow out from the circulating water pipe according to the designed path, maintaining the stable operation of the dishwasher.

[0060] In some embodiments of this utility model, the bottom of the heat recovery water tank 2 is connected to a wastewater drain seat. The wastewater drain seat 7 includes a second water collection tank 701 and a second sealing pipe 702 disposed at the bottom of the second water collection tank 701. The side wall of the second water collection tank 701 is provided with a wastewater inlet 7011, and the side wall of the second sealing pipe 702 is provided with a wastewater outlet 7021. The upper end of the vertical overflow pipe is provided with an overflow port, and the lower end is inserted into the second sealing pipe 702 for sealing the second sealing pipe 702. The drain port 9021 on the slag-separating drain seat 9 is connected to the wastewater inlet 7011 through a connecting pipe 11.

[0061] Specifically, a vertical overflow pipe is a conduit typically used for discharging or guiding liquids. An overflow outlet is an opening on this pipe that allows excess liquid to drain when the design capacity is exceeded. This outlet monitors the level of the waste hot water. When the waste hot water level rises to or exceeds the overflow outlet level, the system automatically initiates a discharge procedure. This design effectively prevents the risk of overflow due to excessively high waste hot water levels, thus ensuring the normal operation of the system.

[0062] Furthermore, the waste hot water drain base 7 comprises two main components: a second water collection tank 701 and a second sealing pipe 702, which are tightly connected to form a smooth channel. The cavities of the heat recovery water tank 2, the second water collection tank 701, and the second sealing pipe 702 are all interconnected from top to bottom. The vertical overflow pipe is designed with its upper part located inside the cavity of the heat recovery water tank 2, while its lower part passes through the cavity of the second water collection tank 701 and finally inserts into the second sealing pipe 702.

[0063] During normal operation of the dishwasher, the second sealing pipe 702 forms a tight interference fit with the vertical overflow pipe, ensuring that the vertical overflow pipe effectively seals the second sealing pipe 702, thereby preventing water in the second water collection tank 701 from flowing out through the tiny gap between them. At this time, waste hot water can only be discharged through the overflow port. Specifically, when the dishwasher is in operation, excess water will flow into the cavity of the overflow pipe through the overflow port, and then through the overflow pipe opening, and finally be smoothly discharged through the waste hot water outlet 7021 on the side wall of the second sealing pipe 702.

[0064] When the dishwasher finishes its cycle, the vertical overflow pipe is removed from the second sealing pipe 702, thus no longer blocking it. Water then flows sequentially through the second water collection tank 701, the second sealing pipe 702, and finally exits through the waste hot water outlet 7021 on the side wall of the second sealing pipe 702. Simultaneously, the drain outlet 9021 on the first sealing pipe 902 and the waste hot water inlet 7011 on the second water collection tank 701 are connected by a dedicated connecting pipe 11. When the dishwasher finishes its cycle, the vertical drain pipe 8 is removed from the first sealing pipe 902, and the vertical overflow pipe is also removed from the second sealing pipe 702. Water in the main wash tank 1 then flows sequentially through the first water collection tank 901, the first sealing pipe 902, the drain outlet 9021, the waste hot water inlet 7011, the second water collection tank 701, and the second sealing pipe 702, finally exiting through the waste hot water outlet 7021 on the side wall of the second sealing pipe 702.

[0065] In some embodiments of this utility model, a second limiting member 501 overflow port is provided on the outer periphery of the overflow pipe 5; 502, the second limiting member 501 overflow port; 502 is used to cooperate with the waste hot water drain seat 7 at the bottom of the heat recovery water tank 2 for installation.

[0066] Specifically, the second limiting component 501 is an overflow port; 502 is an annular protrusion surrounding the outer circumference of the overflow pipe 5 or multiple spaced limiting blocks. The bottom of the waste hot water drain seat 7 is provided with a hole, and the second limiting component 501 overflow port; 502 overlaps the edge of the hole to prevent the overflow pipe 5 from shifting. This design not only limits the radial displacement of the overflow pipe 5, but also limits its axial displacement to a certain extent, ensuring that the overflow pipe 5 will not shake or shift during operation, thereby maintaining the stability of the annular flow channel 603 between the overflow pipe 5 and the converter 6, and enabling the heat exchange and drainage functions of the heat recovery device to operate normally.

[0067] When installing the overflow pipe 5, slowly insert it into the heat recovery water tank 2. Because the annular protrusion overlaps with the edge of the hole, radial displacement of the overflow pipe 5 is effectively prevented. This ensures that the overflow pipe 5 remains centered in the heat recovery water tank 2, guaranteeing the uniformity of the annular flow channel 603 between the overflow pipe 5 and the converter 6. It also prevents partial blockage or poor water flow in the annular flow channel 603 due to overflow pipe 5 misalignment, thus ensuring efficient and stable operation of the heat recovery device.

[0068] In some embodiments of this utility model, the height of the horizontal overflow pipe 4 is greater than or equal to the height of the overflow outlet.

[0069] Specifically, a first opening is made on one side wall of the main wash water tank 1, and a second opening is made at the corresponding position in the heat recovery water tank 2. These two openings are correspondingly positioned and at the same horizontal level to ensure that liquid can accurately overflow from the main wash water tank 1 through the horizontal overflow pipe 4 to the heat recovery water tank 2. Both openings are located at a position higher than or at the same level as the overflow outlet, ensuring that the highest liquid level in the heat recovery water tank 2 will not exceed the openings, preventing backflow of liquid from the heat recovery water tank 2 into the main wash water tank 1. Floating oil and impurities on the surface of the liquid in the main wash water tank 1 flow directly into the heat recovery water tank 2, preventing these impurities from participating in the water circulation in the main wash water tank 1. This method makes the circulating water in the main wash water tank 1 cleaner, facilitating water recycling in the main wash water tank 1, improving washing efficiency and the practicality of the equipment.

[0070] In some embodiments of this utility model, the position of the waste hot water outlet 7021 is lower than the position of the waste hot water inlet 7011.

[0071] Specifically, the position of the waste hot water outlet 7021 is lower than that of the waste hot water inlet 7011 to ensure that the waste hot water can flow out of the collection tank smoothly and avoid water accumulation.

[0072] In some embodiments of this utility model, the openings at the top of the main wash water tank 1 and the heat recovery water tank 2 are connected to the bottom wall of the dishwasher water tank 10. A filter screen is provided at the top of the opening of the main wash water tank 1, and the water in the dishwasher water tank 10 enters the main wash water tank 1 through the filter screen. The opening of the heat recovery water tank 2 is in a sealed state.

[0073] Specifically, the openings at the top of both the main wash water tank 1 and the heat recovery water tank 2 are connected to the bottom wall of the dishwasher tub 10. This allows water from the dishwasher tub 10 to directly enter the main wash water tank 1 through the filter, reducing intermediate steps and improving efficiency. The top of the opening of the main wash water tank 1 is equipped with a filter to remove impurities from the water, ensuring the quality of the water entering the main wash water tank 1. The opening of the heat recovery water tank 2 is sealed, preventing water from the dishwasher tub 10 from entering the heat recovery water tank 221 through the opening at the top of the heat recovery water tank 2. This also prevents heat loss from the heat recovery water tank 2, improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0074] In some embodiments of this utility model, the opening of the heat recovery water tank 2 is provided with a cover that seals the opening.

[0075] Specifically, this design makes it easier for staff to clean the heat recovery water tank 2 and remove the heat exchange coil 3 for cleaning. At the same time, the cover also prevents water from the dishwasher sink 10 from entering the heat recovery water tank 2 through the opening at the top of the heat recovery water tank 2, thus avoiding affecting the normal operation of the heat recovery water tank 2.

[0076] In some embodiments of this utility model, the top of the vertical drain pipe 8 is higher than the horizontal overflow pipe 4.

[0077] Specifically, to ensure greater convenience for staff when removing the vertical drain pipe 8, the design employs an appropriate height setting. Under this layout, the liquid level in the main wash tank 1 is always kept below the height of the horizontal overflow pipe 4, allowing the top of the vertical drain pipe 8 to be higher than the liquid level in the main wash tank 1. This not only facilitates the staff's retrieval but also effectively prevents burns from contact with high-temperature liquids during operation and avoids contamination of the staff's arms with the liquid.

[0078] The design of the converter 6 in this utility model allows the high-temperature waste hot water in the upper layer of the heat recovery water tank 2 to enter the annular flow channel 603 of the converter 6 and the overflow pipe 5 from the top opening of the converter 6, then descend to the water collection chamber, and finally flow out from the fluid inlet 6021 on the side of the base 602, mixing with the waste hot water at the bottom of the heat recovery water tank 2, so that the water temperature in the heat recovery water tank 2 rises evenly, enhancing the heat exchange effect of the heat exchange coil 3.

[0079] The above are merely the principles and preferred embodiments of this utility model. It should be noted that, for those skilled in the art, several other modifications can be made based on the principles of this utility model, and these modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A heat recovery converter for use with the overflow pipe of a dishwasher, characterized in that: The converter is sleeved outside the overflow pipe and forms an axially continuous annular flow channel with the overflow pipe. The top of the converter is open and its top is higher than the overflow port at the top of the overflow pipe. The bottom of the converter is provided with at least one fluid inlet. The fluid inlet is used to guide the low-temperature waste hot water into the converter and rise along the annular flow channel to the overflow port of the overflow pipe for discharge.

2. The converter for heat recovery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fluid inlet can be any one of the following: multiple equally spaced water inlet holes, a spiral flow channel, a mesh-like porous structure, a continuous annular opening, a combination of an intermittent annular opening and a fixed support structure, or a corrugated annular flow channel structure.

3. A heat recovery converter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The converter is provided with a first limiting member on its outer periphery, which is used to cooperate with the heat recovery water tank for installation.

4. A heat recovery converter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The converter includes a converter tube and a base connected to the bottom of the converter tube. Both the converter tube and the base are cylindrical, and the radius of the base is larger than the radius of the converter tube.

5. A heat recovery converter according to claim 4, characterized in that, The lower half of the base has a cylindrical extension structure, which is used to extend into the waste hot water drain seat at the bottom of the heat recovery water tank for a sealed connection.

6. A heat recovery converter according to claim 4, characterized in that, The base is provided with multiple reinforcing ribs, which are evenly distributed in a spiral shape on the inner wall of the base.

7. A heat recovery device, characterized in that, The device includes an overflow pipe and a converter as described in any one of claims 1-6, wherein the upper part of the overflow pipe is provided with an overflow port, and the interior of the overflow pipe is a hollow flow guiding channel; the converter is coaxially sleeved outside the overflow pipe and forms an axially continuous annular flow channel with the overflow pipe; the top end of the converter extends to a position higher than the overflow port.

8. The heat recovery device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The converter and the overflow pipe are either integrally formed or detachably connected.

9. The heat recovery device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The overflow pipe is provided with a second limiting member on its outer periphery. The second limiting member is used to cooperate with the waste hot water drain seat at the bottom of the heat recovery water tank for installation.

10. A dishwasher with a heat recovery device, characterized in that, include: Main wash water tank and heat recovery water tank; The heat recovery device according to claim 7, wherein the heat recovery device is disposed inside the heat recovery water tank; The heat exchange coil is installed inside the heat recovery water tank for heat exchange with the waste hot water; A horizontal overflow pipe connects the main wash water tank and the heat recovery water tank, and is used to overflow waste hot water from the main wash water tank to the heat recovery water tank. The heat recovery device is used to guide the low-temperature waste hot water into the converter from the bottom and rise along the annular flow channel to the overflow outlet for discharge.

11. A dishwasher with a heat recovery device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The bottom of the main washing water tank is equipped with a slag-separating drainage seat, which includes a slag-separating screen and a first water collection tank for filtering and collecting waste hot water; the bottom of the heat recovery water tank is equipped with a waste hot water drainage seat for discharging waste hot water.

12. The dishwasher according to claim 11, characterized in that, The waste hot water drain seat includes a second water collection tank and a second sealing pipe located at the bottom of the second water collection tank. The side wall of the second water collection tank is provided with a waste hot water inlet, and the side wall of the second sealing pipe is provided with a waste hot water outlet. The upper end of the vertical overflow pipe is provided with an overflow outlet, and the lower end is inserted into the second sealing pipe.

13. The dishwasher according to claim 12, characterized in that, The slag-separating drain seat and the waste hot water drain seat are connected by a connecting pipe and are used to discharge waste hot water when the dishwasher finishes working.

14. The dishwasher according to claim 12, characterized in that, The height of the horizontal overflow pipe is greater than or equal to the height of the overflow outlet.

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