dishwasher

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher. The dishwasher disclosed herein comprises: a tub; a sump disposed below the tub and storing water supplied to the tub; and a base disposed below the sump. In addition, the dishwasher comprises a heat pump module for heating water supplied from the sump to the tub. The heat pump module is detachably mounted to the base. When the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the heat pump module is connected to a filter device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher, and more specifically, to a dishwasher including a heat pump module.[Background Art]

[0002] A dishwasher is a device that cleans dishes using water. The dishwasher can clean dishes with heated water. Therefore, the dishwasher may include a heater for heating water.

[0003] However, it is also possible to use a heat pump as a means for heating water.

[0004] Registered Patent KR 10-2696737 discloses a dishwasher including a heat pump.

[0005] When inspecting or repairing the internal configuration of the dishwasher, the entire dishwasher may sometimes be turned upside down in order to check the components arranged under the tub. However, since refrigerant or oil remains inside the compressor of the heat pump, turning the dishwasher upside down can cause problems that reduce the performance or reliability of the heat pump, including its compressor.[Disclosure][Technical Problem]

[0006] The present disclosure is directed to overcoming the aforementioned problems and other problems.

[0007] Another object is to provide a dishwasher in which a heat pump is modularized so that it can be easily removed.

[0008] Another object is to provide a dishwasher in which a heat pump module can be easily mounted to or removed from a base.

[0009] Another object is to provide a dishwasher in which the heat pump module is stably fixed in place while mounted on the base.

[0010] Another object is to provide a dishwasher in which a filter connected to the heat pump module can be easily replaced.[Technical Solution]

[0011] In order to achieve the above objects, a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a tub; a sump disposed below the tub and storing water supplied to the tub; and a base disposed below the sump. In addition, the dishwasher comprises a heat pump module for heating water supplied from the sump to the tub. The heat pump module is detachably mounted to the base.

[0012] The dishwasher comprises a filter device connected to the heat pump module, for filtering air flowing through the heat pump.

[0013] The heat pump module comprises a compressor for compressing refrigerant, a condenser for heating the water supplied to the tub, an evaporator for transferring heat between the refrigerant and the air, and a fan for forming air flow to the evaporator.

[0014] When the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the heat pump module is connected to the filter device. When the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the filter device is connected to the evaporator.

[0015] The heat pump module includes a module tray detachably disposed on the base. The compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator are disposed on the module tray.

[0016] The heat pump module is slidably attached to the base. The module tray is slidably attached to the base.

[0017] The base includes a module cover attached to the base to fix the module tray in place.

[0018] The base includes an exhaust duct for discharging the air moved by the fan out of the base.

[0019] When the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the heat pump module is disposed between the exhaust duct and the filter device. When the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the fan is connected to the exhaust duct.

[0020] When the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the heat pump module is disposed between the exhaust duct and the filter device.

[0021] The module tray includes a tray base disposed over the base and a tray sidewall that extends upward from one side of the tray base. The base includes a base sidewall that extends in the direction of movement of the module tray. The base sidewall and the tray sidewall are disposed to face each other.

[0022] The heat pump module includes a module tray detachably disposed on the base. The module tray includes a first tray side wall and a second tray side wall disposed to be spaced apart from and parallel to the first tray side wall. The compressor and the condenser are disposed between the first tray side wall and the second tray side wall.

[0023] The base includes a first base side wall disposed to face the first tray side wall and a second base side wall disposed to face the second tray side wall.

[0024] A first guide rib protruding in a direction in which the first tray side wall is disposed is disposed on the first base side wall. A second guide rib protruding in a direction in which the second tray side wall is disposed is disposed on the second base side wall.

[0025] A first guide groove into which the first guide rib is inserted is formed on the first tray side wall. A second guide groove into which the second guide rib is inserted is formed on the second tray side wall.

[0026] The base includes an end wall contacting one end portion of the module tray and a spacing protrusion protruding from the end wall. The spacing protrusion is disposed to be spaced upwardly apart from a bottom surface of the base by a predetermined distance. When the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the module tray is disposed below the spacing protrusion.

[0027] An outlet open toward the evaporator is formed on one side of the filter device. The filter device includes a peripheral wall forming the outlet.

[0028] The peripheral wall includes an upper wall disposed over the outlet and a lower wall disposed under the outlet. The upper wall and the lower wall guide lateral movement of the evaporator.

[0029] The module tray includes an evaporator cover forming a space in which the evaporator is disposed. The filter device includes: an upper tip protruding from a lower end portion of the upper wall toward the evaporator and disposed below an upper wall of the evaporator cover; and a lower tip protruding from an upper end portion of the lower wall toward the evaporator and disposed above a lower wall of the evaporator cover.

[0030] The peripheral wall includes opposite side walls disposed on both sides of the outlet. Each of the opposite side walls has a side groove formed therein that extends vertically.

[0031] The evaporator cover includes a side tip protruding in a direction in which the filter device is disposed so as to be inserted into the side groove,

[0032] When the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the side tip is inserted into the side groove.

[0033] The filter device body includes a filter placement portion in which the filter is disposed and an air guide portion in which the inner rib is disposed. A plurality of inner ribs disposed to be spaced apart from each other are disposed inside the air guide portion.

[0034] The filter device includes a filter device body forming a space in which a filter is disposed, a connector disposed above the filter device body and forming an inlet, and a cap disposed on top of the connector. The cap is disposed to be removable from the connector.

[0035] The cap is connected to the connector above a bottom plate of the tub.

[0036] When the cap is removed from the connector, the filter is withdrawn upward from the bottom plate of the tub.

[0037] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.[Advantageous Effects]

[0038] According to the dishwasher of the present disclosure, one or more of the following effects may be achieved.

[0039] First, the heat pump can be modularized and slidably removed from and mounted to the base, thereby allowing for easy removable and mounting.

[0040] Therefore, when inspecting or repairing the internal configuration of the dishwasher, the heat pump module can be removed in advance, eliminating the need to invert the heat pump. In addition, the heat pump module itself can be easily repaired.

[0041] Second, through a guide structure between the base and the heat pump module, the heat pump module can be easily removed from or stably attached to the base.

[0042] Third, when the heat pump module is mounted on the base, multiple structures for keeping them in place allow them to be held in a stable position.

[0043] Fourth, the cap of the filter device connected to the heat pump can be removed upward from the bottom plate of the tub, enabling the filter to be replaced from inside the tub. This allows the user to easily remove the filter without having it go through the base.

[0044] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not described herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the claims.[Description of Drawings]

[0045] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the base and the components arranged on the base according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a plan view of the base and a heat pump module arranged on the base according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a plan view of the base and the heat pump module removed from the base according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the base, the components arranged on the base, and the components removed from the filter device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a side view of the filter device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a side view of the heat pump module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the heat pump module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a side perspective view of the base according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the state in which the heat pump module is mounted on the base according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII of FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the coupling relationship between the filter device and the base according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14 is another side cross-sectional view illustrating the coupling relationship between the filter device and the base according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a schematic view illustrating the direction in which the heat pump module is withdrawn from the base according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is a schematic view illustrating the direction in which the heat pump module is withdrawn from the base according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 17 is a schematic view illustrating the direction in which the heat pump module is withdrawn from the base according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Mode for Invention]

[0046] Advantages and features of the present disclosure and methods for achieving them will be made clear from the embodiments described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms, and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. The present disclosure is merely defined by the scope of the claims. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

[0047] Hereinafter, a dishwasher will be described with reference to the drawings of the present disclosure.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 1, the external appearance of the dishwasher will be briefly described.

[0049] The dishwasher includes a tub 10 that forms a washing space. The tub 10 may be open at the front.

[0050] The dishwasher includes a door 12 that opens and closes the open front of the tub 10.

[0051] The dishwasher includes a base 14 disposed below the tub 10. A plurality of components may be arranged in the space between the tub 10 and the base 14.

[0052] The dishwasher may include a side cover 30 disposed at the side of the tub 10.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 2, the flow of water and flow of refrigerant in the dishwasher will be described.

[0054] A sump 32 is disposed below the tub 10. A drain pump 39 is disposed on one side of the sump 32 to discharge the water stored in the sump 32 to the outside.

[0055] A wash pump 34 is disposed on one side of the sump 32 to supply the water stored in the sump 32 to the tub 10. The wash pump 34 may have a heater (not shown). Accordingly, the heater can heat the water supplied to the tub 10 through the wash pump 34.

[0056] A water softener 38 may be disposed on one side of the sump 32. The water softener 38 is connected to the sump 32. It can supply water from an external source to the sump 32. The water softener 38 can reduce the hardness of the water supplied to the sump 32.

[0057] A heat pump module 100 may be disposed on one side of the wash pump 34.

[0058] The heat pump module 100 may allow refrigerant to flow using a compressor 102, and may heat the water supplied to the tub 10.

[0059] The heat pump module 100 includes a condenser 104 that transfers heat between refrigerant and water and heats the water supplied to the tub 10.

[0060] The heat pump module 100 includes an evaporator 106 that transfers heat between refrigerant and air. The heat pump module 100 includes a fan 108 disposed on one side of the evaporator 106 to form air flow to the evaporator 106.

[0061] The heat pump module 100 includes an expansion valve 110 disposed between the condenser 104 and the evaporator 106.

[0062] The condenser 104 is connected between the wash pump 34 and the tub 10. Accordingly, the water supplied to the tub 10 through the wash pump 34 can pass through the condenser 104. The condenser 104 heats the water supplied to the tub 10.

[0063] The wash pump 34 may have a heater (not shown). The wash pump 34 may actuate the heater to generate steam. The wash pump 34 may include a steam supply pipe 36 directly connected to the tub 10.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 3, the base of the dishwasher and the components arranged on the base will be described.

[0065] The base 14 is disposed below the tub 10. The base 14 may be disposed such that its lower surface is in contact with the ground.

[0066] A plurality of components may be disposed on the base 14.

[0067] A sump 32 for storing the water supplied to the tub 10 is disposed on the base 14.

[0068] A wash pump 34 for supplying the water stored in the sump 32 to the tub 10 may be disposed on the base 14. The wash pump 34 is disposed on one side of the sump 32.

[0069] A water softener 38 is disposed on the base 14. The water softener 38 can reduce the hardness of the water supplied to the sump 32.

[0070] A heat pump module 100 is disposed on the base 14. The heat pump module 100 is detachably disposed on the base 14. The heat pump module 100 may be inserted into or withdrawn from the base 14 in a sliding manner.

[0071] The heat pump module 100 includes a module tray 120 detachably disposed on the base 14.

[0072] The heat pump module 100 includes a compressor 102, a condenser 104, an evaporator 106, and a fan 108.

[0073] The heat pump module 100 includes an expansion valve 110.

[0074] The compressor 102, the condenser, and the evaporator 106 are disposed on the module tray 120.

[0075] However, it is also possible that only some of the compressor 102, condenser, and evaporator 106 are disposed on the module tray.

[0076] The compressor 102 may be disposed on the base for the sake of structural stability, and the structure may be configured such that, after the module tray 120 is withdrawn, the compressor exposed through a gap can be disassembled by the user. In this case, a conduit between the compressor 102 and a heat exchanger placed on the module tray 120 may be formed of a flexible or flowable material, and may be of a sufficient length so that the conduit is not subjected to stress even after withdrawal.

[0077] Unlike the drawings, it is also possible for a filter device 40 to be disposed on the module tray 120. In this case, the filter can be replaced when the filter device 40 has been taken out of the dishwasher by the module tray 120. A fan 108 is disposed on the module tray 120. The fan 108 is disposed on one side of the evaporator 106. The condenser 104 may employ a plate-type heat exchanger that transfers heat between the water supplied to the tub 10 and the refrigerant.

[0078] A module cover 70 disposed at one side of the heat pump module 100 is disposed on the base 14. The module cover 70 fixes the heat pump module 100 disposed on the base 14 in place.

[0079] The module cover 70 is attached to the base 14. The module cover 70 may also be attached to the heat pump module 100. When the module cover 70 is removed from the base 14, the heat pump module 100 may be removed from the base 14.

[0080] Electrical components such as the dishwasher's main controller and PCB may be mounted to the module cover 70.

[0081] For ease of maintenance and repair of the electrical components, the module cover 70 may be removed from the base 14. In addition, the module cover 70 may serve to fix and cover the heat pump module 100. A filter device 40 for filtering the air supplied to the evaporator 106 is disposed on the base 14.

[0082] The filter device 40 may have a filter (not shown) disposed inside. The filter device 40 may include a cap 58 for opening an upper portion to allow replacement of the filter disposed inside.

[0083] An inlet (not shown) may be formed on one side of the filter device 40. Even with the cap 58 mounted to the filter device 40, air may flow into the filter device 40 through the inlet (not shown).

[0084] The filter device 40 is connected to the heat pump module 100. Specifically, the filter device 40 is connected to one side of the evaporator 106. Accordingly, the air introduced into the filter device 40 may flow to the evaporator 106.

[0085] An exhaust duct 16 is disposed on one side of the base 14. The exhaust duct 16 is connected to the heat pump module 100. The base 14 includes an exhaust duct 16 for discharging the air moved by the fan 108 out of the base.

[0086] When the heat pump module 100 is mounted to the base 14, the exhaust duct 16 is disposed on one side of the fan 108. Accordingly, the air moved by the fan 108 may be discharged out of the base 14 through the exhaust duct 16.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 4, the placement of the heat pump module disposed on the base will be described.

[0088] When the heat pump module 100 is mounted to the base 14, the evaporator 106 and the fan 108 are disposed between the filter device 40 and the exhaust duct 16.

[0089] The filter device 40 is fixedly disposed on the base 14. Only the cap 58 of the filter device 40 may be removed from the filter device 40.

[0090] The filter device 40 directs the incoming air to the evaporator 106. Accordingly, the air introduced into the filter device 40 may flow through the evaporator 106 and the fan 108 to the exhaust duct 16.

[0091] When the heat pump module 100 is mounted to the base 14, the compressor 102 and the condenser 104 are disposed closer to the module cover 70 than to the evaporator 106.

[0092] The module cover 70 may be disposed to cover one side of the compressor 102 and condenser 104.

[0093] The condenser 104 is disposed between the compressor 102 and the expansion valve 110.

[0094] The condenser 104 is disposed such that a connection surface 104a to which a refrigerant hose 105 or a water hose (not shown) is connected faces the expansion valve 110. The connection surface 104a of the condenser 104 is disposed in a direction adjacent to the washing pump 34 (see FIG. 3).

[0095] Referring to FIG. 5, the heat pump module that can be removed from the base will be described.

[0096] The heat pump module 100 may be removed to one of the left and right sides of the base 14.

[0097] Once the heat pump module 100 is removed from base 14, the fan 108 may be removed from the exhaust duct 16. Once the heat pump module 100 is removed from the base 14, the evaporator 106 may be removed from the filter device 40.

[0098] As the module tray 120 is removed from the base 14, the heat pump module 100 is removed from the base 14.

[0099] Once the heat pump module 100 is removed from the base 14, the evaporator 106, the fan 108, the compressor 102, and the condenser 104, which are disposed on the module tray 120, may move together. Accordingly, the heat pump module 100 may be removed from the base 14 so that the heat pump module 100 can be managed separately.

[0100] In addition, the components arranged on the base 14 may be managed through the area from which the heat pump module 100 is removed.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 6, the cap that can be removed from the filter device will be described.

[0102] The filter device 40 is fixedly disposed on the base 14. The filter device 40 is fixed in place while attached to the base 14.

[0103] A filter 56 may be disposed inside the filter device 40. The cap 58 is removably attached to the filter device 40. When the cap 58 is removed from the filter device 40, the filter 56 disposed inside the filter device 40 may be removed.

[0104] The cap 58 is disposed on a bottom plate 10a of the tub 10. Accordingly, the cap 58 is removed upward from the bottom plate 10a of the tub 10. A through-hole 10b through which a connector 60 passes is formed in the bottom plate 10a of the tub 10.

[0105] With the cap 58 attached to the filter device 40, the cap 58 is disposed on the bottom plate 10a of the tub 10. With the cap 58 removed from the filter device 40, the filter 56 may be withdrawn upward from the bottom plate 10a of the tub 10.

[0106] Accordingly, the user can replace the filter 56 disposed inside the filter device 40 through the inside of the tub 10.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 7, the filter device will be described.

[0108] The filter device 40 includes a filter device body 42 that forms a space in which the filter 56 is disposed, a connector 60 disposed above the filter device body 42 and forming an inlet 60a, and a cap 58 disposed on top of the connector 60.

[0109] The filter 56 is disposed inside the filter device body 42. The filter device body 42 guides air to the evaporator 106.

[0110] The connector 60 connects the filter device body 42 and the cap 58. The connector 60 is mounted above the filter device body 42. A separate inlet 60a is formed in the connector 60. A portion of the connector 60 protrudes upward beyond the bottom plate 10a of the tub 10. Accordingly, the cap 58 disposed above the bottom plate 10a of the tub 10 may be connected to the connector 60.

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the structure of the heat pump module will be described.

[0112] The heat pump module 100 includes a module tray 120 where the compressor 102, the evaporator 106, and the condenser 104 are disposed.

[0113] The module tray 120 may be slidably attached to the base 14. The module tray 120 is slidably attached to the base 14. The module tray 120 is removably disposed on the base 14.

[0114] The module tray 120 includes a tray base 122 disposed over the base 14.

[0115] The module tray 120 includes tray sidewalls 124 and 126 that extend upward from the tray base 122 and make contact with base sidewalls 18 and 20 of the base 14.

[0116] The tray base 122 forms a double bottom surface with the base 14. The load of the components installed in the module tray 120 can be supported well through the double bottom surface.

[0117] However, unlike the drawings, it is also possible that the base 14 does not form a bottom surface in the area where the tray base 122 is disposed. In this case, the tray base 122 does not form a double bottom surface with the base 14.

[0118] That is, the tray base 122 may form a continuous surface with the base 14. The tray base 122 may constitute a single bottom surface at one side of the base 14. In this case, the base 14 may guide the movement of the module tray 120. That is, the base 14 may be disposed around the peripheries of the tray sidewalls 124 and 126.

[0119] In such a structure, the material cost of the base 14 can be reduced. In addition, when the module tray 120 is withdrawn from the base 14, the bottom surface may be opened. That is, the structure may allow easier maintenance of other components.

[0120] Guide grooves 124a and 126a are formed in the tray sidewalls 124 and 126. The guide grooves 124a and 126a form inward recesses in the tray sidewalls 124 and 126. The guide grooves 124a and 126a extend in the direction in which the module tray 120 moves.

[0121] Guide ribs 18a and 20a, formed on the base sidewalls 18 and 20 of the base 14 as described below, may be inserted into the guide grooves 124a and 126a.

[0122] The module tray 120 includes a first tray sidewall 124 and a second tray sidewall 126 disposed to be spaced apart from the first tray sidewall 124. The first tray sidewall 124 is disposed parallel to the second tray sidewall 126.

[0123] The first tray sidewall 124 and the second tray sidewall 126 are disposed to face each other.

[0124] The compressor 102 is disposed between the first tray sidewall 124 and the second tray sidewall 126. The condenser 104 is disposed between the first tray sidewall 124 and the second tray sidewall 126.

[0125] A first guide groove 124a is formed in the first tray sidewall 124. A second guide groove 126a is formed in the second tray sidewall 126.

[0126] The fan 108 is disposed on one side of the second tray sidewall 126.

[0127] The module tray 120 includes an evaporator cover 128 that forms a space in which the evaporator 106 is disposed. The module tray 120 includes a fan cover 130 that forms a space in which the fan 108 is disposed.

[0128] The evaporator cover 128 is disposed at one side of the fan cover 130.

[0129] The module tray 120 may include an upper cover 132 disposed over the evaporator cover 128 and the fan cover 130. The evaporator cover 128, the fan cover 130, and the upper cover 132 may also be integrally formed.

[0130] On the side of the evaporator cover 128 facing the filter device 40, a side tip 128a protruding toward the filter device 40 may be disposed. The side tip 128a may be inserted into a side groove 52a formed in the filter device 40 which will be described below.

[0131] That is, when the module tray 120 is mounted to the base 14, the side tip 128a is inserted into the side groove 52a of the filter device 40.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 10, a portion of the base connected to the heat pump module will be described.

[0133] The base 14 includes base sidewalls 18 and 20 that extend in the direction of movement of the module tray 120. The base 14 includes a first base sidewall 18 and a second base sidewall 20 disposed to be spaced apart from the first base sidewall 18.

[0134] The first base sidewall 18 is disposed to face the first tray sidewall 124. The second base sidewall 20 is disposed to face the second tray sidewall 126.

[0135] A first guide rib 18a is disposed on the first base sidewall 18. When the module tray 120 is mounted to the base 14, the first guide rib 18a is inserted into the first guide groove 124a of the first tray sidewall 124.

[0136] A second guide rib 20a is disposed on the second base sidewall 20. When the module tray 120 is mounted to the base 14, the second guide rib 20a is inserted into the second guide groove 126a of the second tray sidewall 126.

[0137] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, an end wall of the base will be described.

[0138] The base 14 includes an end wall 22 that bends and extends from the second base sidewall 20. The end wall 22 may form a space in which the washing pump 34 is disposed.

[0139] The base 14 includes an end wall 22 with which one end portion of the module tray 120 makes contact.

[0140] A spacing protrusion 22a is disposed on the end wall 22 to restrict upward movement of the module tray 120. The module tray 120 may be disposed below the spacing protrusion 22a. The spacing protrusion 22a may be disposed to be spaced upwardly apart from a bottom surface of the base 14 by a predetermined distance.

[0141] When the heat pump module 100 is mounted to the base 14, a portion of the module tray 120 may be disposed below the spacing protrusion 22a.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 13, the coupling relationship between the filter device and one side of the heat pump module will be described.

[0143] An outlet 44 open toward the evaporator 106 is formed on one side of filter device 40. The filter device 40 includes a peripheral wall 46 forming the outlet 44.

[0144] The peripheral wall 46 includes an upper wall 48 disposed over the outlet 44 and a lower wall 50 disposed under the outlet 44.

[0145] The peripheral wall 46 includes opposite side walls 52 (see FIG. 13) disposed on both sides of the outlet 44.

[0146] The filter device 40 includes an upper tip 48a disposed at an upper end portion of the peripheral wall 46 and protruding toward the evaporator 106. The filter device 40 includes a lower tip 50a disposed at a lower end portion of the peripheral wall 46 and protruding toward the evaporator 106.

[0147] The upper tip 48a protrudes toward the evaporator 106 from a lower end portion of the upper wall 48. The lower tip 50a protrudes toward the evaporator 106 from an upper end portion of the lower wall 50.

[0148] The upper tip 48a is disposed below an upper wall of the evaporator cover 128. The lower tip 50a is disposed above a lower wall of the evaporator cover 128.

[0149] The upper tip 48a and the lower tip 50a may keep the evaporator 106 in place. In addition, the upper tip 48a and the lower tip 50a may guide lateral movement of the evaporator 106.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 14, the coupling relationship between the filter device and another side of the heat pump module will be described.

[0151] The peripheral wall 46 includes opposite side walls 52 disposed on both sides of the outlet 44. Each side wall 52 has a side groove 52a formed therein. The side groove 52a extends vertically.

[0152] A side tip 128a of the evaporator 106 is inserted into the side groove 52a formed in each of the side walls 52. When the heat pump module 100 is mounted to the base 14, the side tip 128a is inserted into the side groove 52a. Therefore, lateral movement of the heat pump module 100 can be restricted.

[0153] An inner rib 54 is disposed inside the filter device body 42 to guide air flowing through the filter 56 toward the evaporator 106.

[0154] The filter device body 42 includes a filter placement portion 42a in which the filter 56 is disposed and an air guide portion 42b in which the inner rib 54 is disposed.

[0155] The cross-sectional area of a flow path from the filter placement portion 42a to the air guide portion 42b is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the outlet 44. Therefore, the air flowing through the outlet 44 toward the evaporator 106 may flow mostly to one side of the evaporator 106.

[0156] Such air flow reduces the heat exchange performance of the evaporator 106. Therefore, a plurality of inner ribs 54 are disposed inside the air guide portion 42b. The inner ribs 54 may cause the air flowing from the filter placement portion 42a to flow evenly across the evaporator 106.

[0157] The plurality of inner ribs 54 may have a bent shape in the form of an "L." The plurality of inner ribs 54 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Each of the plurality of inner ribs 54 may extend to the outlet 44.

[0158] Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 15 to 17, the placement of the module cover and the position where the heat pump module is withdrawn will be described.

[0159] The module cover 70 may be located on one side of the base 14. As shown in FIG. 15, the module cover 70 may be disposed on a side surface of the base 14. In this case, once the module cover 70 is removed from the base 14, the heat pump module 100 may be withdrawn laterally from the base 14. Unlike the drawings, it is also possible for the module cover 70 to be disposed on a side surface opposite to that of the structure of FIG. 15.

[0160] If the heat pump module 100 is a structure that can be withdrawn laterally from the base 14, the installation of the module cover 70 can be facilitated. The module cover 70 may be disposed in a gap formed between the base 14 and the tub 10.

[0161] If the heat pump module 100 is a structure that can be withdrawn in a lateral direction of the base 14, the formation of an air passage to the rear of the dishwasher may be facilitated. In addition, in a built-in structure, there is the advantage that the dishwasher can be pulled out only by one unit of length in a front-rear direction from a sink installation position, so that the heat pump module 100 can be withdrawn.

[0162] Furthermore, the module cover 70 may be disposed at the front of the base 14 as shown in FIG. 16, or may be disposed at the rear of the base 14 as shown in FIG. 17.

[0163] If the heat pump module 100 is a structure that can be withdrawn forward from the base 14, it can be withdrawn by disassembling a cover plate (not shown) of a toe kick portion of the dishwasher. In addition, in a built-in structure, there is the advantage that the heat pump module 100 alone can be withdrawn forward without pulling out the entire dishwasher.

[0164] In the case of FIG. 16, once the module cover 70 is removed from the base 14, the heat pump module 100 can be withdrawn forward from the base 14.

[0165] Also, in the case of FIG. 17, once the module cover 70 is removed from the base 14, the heat pump module 100 can be withdrawn rearward from the base 14.

[0166] The rear of the base 14 may have a structure with relatively greater rigidity compared to the front or side, in order to support the load of the tub 10. Therefore, a structure in which the heat pump module 100 can be withdrawn rearward from the base 14 can provide structural stability even when withdrawing the heat pump module 100 from the base 14.

[0167] That is, it is possible to place the heat pump module in a proper position and withdraw it depending on the arrangement of the space between the base 14 and the tub 10. The placement of the heat pump module 100 may be determined depending on the placement of the module cover 70. In addition, the module tray 120 may also be installed so as to be withdrawn in all directions - rearward, forward, and laterally - from the base 14.

[0168] While exemplary embodiments have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments, and various modifications may be made by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments pertain without departing from the gist of the present disclosure, and these modifications should not be appreciated individually from the technical spirit or prospect of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A dishwasher comprising: a tub; a sump disposed below the tub and storing water supplied to the tub; a base disposed below the sump; and a heat pump module for heating water supplied from the sump to the tub, wherein the heat pump module is detachably mounted to the base.

2. The battery module of claim 1, further comprising a filter device connected to the heat pump module and filtering air flowing to the heat pump, wherein, when the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the heat pump module is connected to the filter device.

3. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the heat pump module includes a module tray slidably attached to the base.

4. The dishwasher of claim 3, wherein the heat pump module includes: a compressor for compressing refrigerant; a condenser for heating the water supplied to the tub; an evaporator for transferring heat between the refrigerant and the air; and a fan for forming air flow to the evaporator, wherein the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator are disposed on the module tray.

5. The dishwasher of claim 4, further comprising a filter device connected to the heat pump module and filtering air flowing to the heat pump, wherein, when the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the filter device is connected to the evaporator.

6. The dishwasher of claim 3, wherein the base includes a module cover attached to the base to fix the module tray in place.

7. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising a filter device connected to the heat pump module and filtering air flowing to the heat pump, wherein the base includes an exhaust duct for discharging air out of the base, and, when the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the heat pump module is disposed between the exhaust duct and the filter device.

8. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the heat pump module includes: a module tray detachably disposed on the base; a compressor disposed on the module tray; and a condenser disposed on the module tray, for heating water, wherein the module tray includes a first tray side wall and a second tray side wall disposed to be spaced apart from and parallel to the first tray side wall, and wherein the compressor and the condenser are disposed between the first tray side wall and the second tray side wall.

9. The dishwasher of claim 8, wherein the base includes: a first base side wall disposed to face the first tray side wall; and a second base side wall disposed to face the second tray side wall, wherein a first guide rib protruding in a direction in which the first tray side wall is disposed is disposed on the first base side wall, and a second guide rib protruding in a direction in which the second tray side wall is disposed is disposed on the second base side wall, and wherein a first guide groove into which the first guide rib is inserted is formed on the first tray side wall, and a second guide groove into which the second guide rib is inserted is formed on the second tray side wall.

10. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the heat pump module includes a module tray detachably disposed on the base, and the base includes an end wall contacting one end portion of the module tray and a spacing protrusion protruding from the end wall, wherein the spacing protrusion is disposed to be spaced upwardly apart from a bottom surface of the base by a predetermined distance, and wherein, when the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the module tray is disposed below the spacing protrusion.

11. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising a filter device connected to the heat pump module and filtering air flowing to the heat pump, wherein the heat pump module includes a module tray detachably disposed on the base and an evaporator disposed on the module tray for transferring heat between refrigerant and air, and an outlet open toward the evaporator is formed on one side of the filter device, wherein the filter device includes a peripheral wall forming the outlet, wherein the peripheral wall includes an upper wall disposed over the outlet and a lower wall disposed under the outlet, wherein the upper wall and the lower wall guide lateral movement of the evaporator.

12. The dishwasher of claim 11, wherein the heat pump module includes a module tray detachably disposed on the base, wherein the module tray includes an evaporator cover forming a space in which the evaporator is disposed, wherein the filter device includes: an upper tip protruding from a lower end portion of the upper wall toward the evaporator and disposed below an upper wall of the evaporator cover; and a lower tip protruding from an upper end portion of the lower wall toward the evaporator and disposed above a lower wall of the evaporator cover.

13. The dishwasher of claim 12, wherein the peripheral wall includes opposite side walls disposed on both sides of the outlet, wherein each of the opposite side walls has a side groove formed therein that extends vertically, wherein the evaporator cover includes a side tip protruding in a direction in which the filter device is disposed so as to be inserted into the side groove, wherein, when the heat pump module is mounted to the base, the side tip is inserted into the side groove.

14. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising a filter device connected to the heat pump module and filtering air flowing to the heat pump, wherein the filter device includes a filter device body forming a space in which a filter is disposed, a connector disposed above the filter device body and forming an inlet, and a cap disposed on top of the connector, wherein the cap is disposed to be removable from the connector.

15. The dishwasher of claim 14, wherein the cap is connected to the connector above a bottom plate of the tub, and, when the cap is removed from the connector, the filter is withdrawn upward from the bottom plate of the tub.

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