dishwasher

Abstract

A dishwasher comprises: a tub forming a washing chamber; an inlet duct configured to allow air discharged from the washing chamber to flow; a heat transfer device configured to dry air flowing through the inlet duct; an outlet duct configured to allow air flowing through the heat transfer device to flow; a connecting duct, connecting the inlet duct and the outlet duct, configured to receive the heat transfer device, and the connecting duct is configured to allow a bottom of the connecting duct to collect condensate; and a self-priming pump, above the bottom of the connecting duct, the self-priming pump configured to pump condensate within the connecting duct.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This is a continuation application, under 35 U.S.C. § 111(a), of International Application PCT / KR2025 / 022691, filed Dec. 24, 2025, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0001858, filed Jan. 6, 2025, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein in their entireties by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher.BACKGROUND ART

[0003] A dishwasher is a device that automatically washes food and other items from dishes using detergent and water.

[0004] The dishwasher may include a main body, a tub disposed inside the main body, a sump provided to receive water, a basket disposed inside the tub to store dishes, a spray device configured to spray washing water toward dishes, and a drying device configured to dry the dishes.

[0005] For example, the dishwasher may include a thermoelectric element, a heat pump, a heater, a desiccant, and the like to provide dry air into the tub.DISCLOSURETechnical Problem

[0006] The present disclosure is directed to providing a dishwasher with improved drying performance.

[0007] Further, the present disclosure is directed to providing a dishwasher capable of effectively draining condensate.

[0008] Further, the present disclosure is directed to providing a dishwasher capable of utilizing a space efficiently.

[0009] Additional aspects of the disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the disclosure.Technical Solution

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a dishwasher including: a tub for forming a washing chamber; an inlet duct for allowing air discharged from the washing chamber to flow; a heat transfer device configured to dry air introduced through the inlet duct; an outlet duct for allowing air passing through the heat transfer device to flow; a connecting duct for connecting the inlet duct and the outlet duct and for receiving the heat transfer device, the connecting duct provided to allow a bottom of the connecting duct to collect condensate; and a self-priming pump configured to pump condensate within the connecting duct. The self-priming pump is disposed above the bottom of the connecting duct.

[0011] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a dishwasher including: a tub for forming a washing chamber; an inlet duct for allowing air discharged from the washing chamber to flow; a heat transfer device including a cooling portion configured to cool air introduced through the inlet duct, and a heating portion configured to heat air passing through the cooling portion; an outlet duct for allowing air passing through the heating portion to flow; a connecting duct for connecting the inlet duct and the outlet duct and for receiving the heat transfer device; a self-priming pump for pumping condensate generated in the cooling portion; and a guide duct. The guide duct is provided to connect the self-priming pump and the tub and provided to guide condensate pumped by the self-priming pump to the washing chamber.

[0012] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a dishwasher including: a tub forming a washing chamber; an inlet duct configured to allow air discharged from the washing chamber to flow; a heat transfer device configured to dry air flowing through the inlet duct; an outlet duct configured to allow air flowing through the heat transfer device to flow; a connecting duct, connecting the inlet duct and the outlet duct, configured to receive the heat transfer device, and the connecting duct is configured to allow a bottom of the connecting duct to collect condensate; and a self-priming pump, above the bottom of the connecting duct, the self-priming pump configured to pump condensate within the connecting duct.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a tub and some components around the tub of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 4 illustrates the tub and some components around the tub of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from a direction different from the direction illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates a drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 6 illustrates the drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from a direction different from the direction illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0019] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 8 illustrates a flow of air in the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 9 illustrates the flow of air and a flow of condensate in the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 9.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a cutaway perspective view of a connecting duct of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the connecting duct and a self-priming pump of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 13 illustrates the connecting duct and the self-priming pump of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from a direction different from the direction illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0026] FIG. 14 is a side view of the connecting duct and the self-priming pump of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.MODES OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Various embodiments and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technology disclosed herein to specific forms, and the disclosure should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives to the corresponding embodiments.

[0028] In describing the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to designate similar constituent elements.

[0029] A singular expression may include a plural expression unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context.

[0030] The expressions “A or B,”“at least one of A or / and B,” or “one or more of A or / and B,” A, B or C,”“at least one of A, B or / and C,” or “one or more of A, B or / and C,” and the like used herein may include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0031] The term of “and / or” includes a plurality of combinations of relevant items or any one item among a plurality of relevant items.

[0032] Terms such as “portion”, “module and “member” may be embodied as hardware or software. According to embodiments, a plurality of “portion”, “module and “member” may be implemented as a single component or a single “portion”, “module and “member” may include a plurality of components.

[0033] Herein, the expressions “a first”, “a second”, “the first”, “the second”, etc., may simply be used to distinguish an element from other elements, but is not limited to another aspect (importance or order) of elements.

[0034] When an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “(functionally or communicatively) coupled,” or “connected” to another element (e.g., a second element), the first element may be connected to the second element, directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third element.

[0035] In this disclosure, the terms “including”, “having”, and the like are used to specify features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more of the features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0036] When an element is said to be “connected”, “coupled”, “supported” or “contacted” with another element, this includes not only when elements are directly connected, coupled, supported or contacted, but also when elements are indirectly connected, coupled, supported or contacted through a third element.

[0037] Throughout the description, when an element is “on” another element, this includes not only when the element is in contact with the other element, but also when there is another element between the two elements.

[0038] In this disclosure, the meaning of “identical” may include things being similar in properties to each other or are similar within a certain range. In addition, the meaning “identical” refers to “substantially identical”. It should be understood that the meaning of “substantially identical” refers to a value that falls within an error range in manufacturing or a value having a difference within a range that does not have significance with respect to a reference value.

[0039] The terms “front”, “rear”, “left”, “right”, “upper”, “lower”, and the like used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, but the shape and position of each component are not limited by the above terms. For example, “front” and “rear” may each be defined based on the X-axis illustrated in the drawings. For example, “left” and “right” may each be defined based on the Y-axis illustrated in the drawings. For example, “upper” and “lower” may each be defined based on the Z-axis illustrated in the drawings.

[0040] For example, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a direction in which a door 11 of a dishwasher 1 faces may be defined as forward (+X direction), and the opposite direction may be defined as rearward (−X direction).

[0041] Hereinafter exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] The dishwasher 1 may include a main body 10. The main body 10 may form an exterior of the dishwasher 1.

[0044] The dishwasher 1 may include a tub 12 arranged inside the main body 10. The tub 12 may be formed in a substantially box shape.

[0045] One side of the tub 12 may be opened. The tub 12 may include an opening 12a. The opening 12a may be formed at the front of the tub 12.

[0046] The dishwasher 1 may include a receiving space C formed by the tub 12. The receiving space C may be defined as an inner space of the tub 12. The receiving space C may be formed on the inner side of the main body 10.

[0047] The receiving space C of the dishwasher 1 may be referred to as a washing chamber C. The washing chamber C may mean a space where dishes placed in a storage container are washed and dried.

[0048] The dishwasher 1 may include the door 11 configured to open and close the opening 12a of the tub 12. The door 11 may be installed in the main body 10 to open and close the opening 12a of the tub 12. The door 11 may be removably mounted to the main body 10. The door 11 may be rotatably mounted to the main body 10. For example, the door 11 may be rotatably coupled to the main body 10 using a hinge.

[0049] For example, an upper portion of the door 11 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the tub 12 with respect to a lower portion of the door 11. The lower portion of the door 11 may be rotatably fixed to the main body 10. When the door 11 opens the opening 12a of the tub 12, the opening 12a may be opened from an upper side of the opening 12a.

[0050] The dishwasher 1 may include a storage container 50 in which dishes are stored. The storage container 50 may be disposed in the tub 12.

[0051] The storage container 50 may include a plurality of baskets 51, 52, and 53. The plurality of baskets 51, 52, and 53 may be provided to store various dishes. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the storage container 50 may include a single basket.

[0052] The storage container 50 may include an intermediate basket 52 positioned in a middle portion in a height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher 1. The intermediate basket 52 may be inserted into or withdrawn from the washing chamber C through the opening 12a of the tub 12. The intermediate basket 52 may be configured to be slidable along an intermediate guide rail 13b. For example, the intermediate basket 52 may be provided to be supported by the intermediate guide rail 13b. The intermediate guide rail 13b may be configured to be movable along a substantially front and rear direction (X direction) with respect to the tub 12.

[0053] The storage container may include a lower basket 51 positioned in a lower portion in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher 1. The lower basket 51 may be inserted into or withdrawn from the washing chamber C through the opening 12a of the tub 12. For example, the lower basket 51 may include a basket roller 51a, and the basket roller 51a may be configured to move along a support portion 12d formed at a lower portion of a side wall 12b of the tub 12. For example, the support portion 12d may extend in the substantially front and rear direction (X direction). For example, the support portion 12d may be formed to be stepped from a lower surface 12c of the tub 12. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the examples described above, and as an example, the lower basket 51 may be configured to be slidable by a separate guide rail.

[0054] Relatively large dishes may be stored in the plurality of baskets 51 and 52. However, the types of dishes stored in the plurality of baskets 51 and 52 are not limited to relatively large dishes. That is, the plurality of baskets 51 and 52 may store not only relatively large dishes but also relatively small dishes.

[0055] The storage container 50 may include an upper basket 53 positioned in an upper portion in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher 1. The upper basket 53 may be formed in a rack assembly to store relatively small dishes. For example, the upper basket 53 may store a cooking utensil such as a ladle, a knife, or a turner, or cutlery. In addition, the upper basket 53 may store a small cup such as an espresso cup. However, the types of dishes stored in the upper basket 53 is not limited thereto.

[0056] The upper basket 53 may be configured to be slidable along an upper guide rail 13c. For example, the upper basket 53 may be provided to be supported on the upper guide rail 13c. For example, the upper guide rail 13c may be configured to be movable along the substantially front and rear direction (X direction) with respect to the tub 12. For example, the upper guide rail 13c may be configured to be slidable along the substantially front and rear direction (X direction) by a fixed roller fixed to a side surface of the tub 12.

[0057] The lower basket 51, the intermediate basket 52 and the upper basket 53 are named based on their relative positions for convenience of description, and the terms “lower,”“intermediate” and “upper” do not limit the positions of the baskets.

[0058] The dishwasher 1 may include a spray device 40 configured to spray water. “Water” may refer to water for washing dishes, and may refer to both water mixed with detergent and / or rinse agent and water not mixed with detergent and / or rinse agent. The spray device 40 may spray water into the inside of the tub 12. The spray device 40 may spray water into the washing chamber C. The spray device 40 may spray water toward dishes stored in the storage container 50.

[0059] The spray device 40 may include at least one spray unit. For example, the spray device 40 may include a plurality of spray units 41, 42, and 43.

[0060] For example, the spray device 40 may include a first spray unit 41 disposed under the lower basket 51 in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher 1. The spray device 40 may include a second spray unit 42 disposed above the lower basket 51 in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher 1. The spray device 40 may include a third spray unit 43 disposed above the upper basket 53 in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher 1. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the spray device may include two or less or four or more spray units.

[0061] Each of the plurality of spray units 41, 42, and 43 may be configured to spray water while rotating. That is, each of the first spray unit 41, the second spray unit 42, and the third spray unit 43 may be configured to spray washing water while rotating. The plurality of spray units 41, 42, and 43 may be referred to as a plurality of spray rotors 41, 42, and 43. The first spray unit 41, the second spray unit 42, and the third spray unit 43, respectively, may be referred to as a first spray rotor 41, a second spray rotor 42, and a third spray rotor 43.

[0062] However, the spray device 40 may spray the water in a manner different from the above-described example. For example, the first spray unit 41 may be fixed to one side of the lower surface 12d of the tub 12. The first spray unit 41 may be configured to spray washing water in a substantially horizontal direction by a fixed nozzle. A direction of the washing water, which is sprayed in the substantially horizontal direction from the nozzle of the first spray unit 41, may be changed by a conversion assembly (not shown) arranged in the washing chamber C and then the washing water may move upward. The conversion assembly may be installed on a rail (not shown) and may be configured to be movable in translation along the rail. Meanwhile, although the first spray unit 41 is described as an example, the second spray unit 42 and the third spray unit 43 may also be configured to spray the washing water using a fixed nozzle, similar to the above-described example.

[0063] The dishwasher 1 may include a sump 70. The sump 70 may be provided to receive water. The sump 70 may be provided to store water of the tub 12. The sump 70 may collect water of the washing chamber C. For example, the lower surface 12d of the tub 12 may be inclined downward toward the sump 70 to smoothly collect water to the sump 70. The water of the washing chamber C may flow along a slope of the lower surface 12d of the tub 12 and smoothly flow into the sump 70. The sump 70 may be configured to supply washing water to at least one of the plurality of spray units 41, 42 and 43.

[0064] The dishwasher 1 may include a circulation pump 71 configured to pump water stored in the sump 70. Water pumped by the circulation pump 71 may flow to the spray device 40. The circulation pump 71 may be disposed in a machine room L. The circulation pump 71 may be provided as a component of the sump 70.

[0065] The dishwasher 1 may include a drain pump 72 configured to drain water and / or foreign substances (for example, food waste, and the like) remaining in the sump 70. Water pumped by the drain pump 72 may be discharged to the outside of the main body 10. The drain pump 72 may be disposed in the machine room L. The drain pump 72 may be provided as a component of the sump 70.

[0066] The dishwasher 1 may include a washing water pipe 30. The washing water pipe 30 may be configured to guide water from the sump 70 to the spray device 40. The washing water pipe 30 may connect the sump 70 and the spray device 40. The washing water pipe 30 may include a shape extending substantially in a height direction (Z direction).

[0067] The dishwasher 1 may include the machine room L. The machine room L may be a space provided below the tub 12. The machine room L may be disposed under the washing chamber C. The machine room L may be partitioned from the washing chamber C. The dishwasher 1 may include a base frame 20 forming the machine room L.

[0068] At least a portion of the sump 70 may be arranged in the machine room L. For example, most of the sump 70 may be arranged in the machine room L. That is, as for an area of the sump 70, an area of the sump 70 located in the washing chamber C may be less than an area of the sump 70 located in the machine room L. By reducing the area of the sump 70 occupying the washing chamber C, an area of the washing chamber C may be secured. Accordingly, a capacity of the washing chamber C may be increased, and thus a storage capacity of the dishes may be improved.

[0069] The dishwasher 1 may include a filter 60. The filter 60 may be configured to filter out foreign substances contained in the washing water flowing into the sump 70. The washing water filtered by the filter 60 may be delivered to the spray device 40 by the sump 70. The filter 60 may be detachably mounted to the sump 70. At least a portion of the filter 60 may be disposed inside the sump 70. For example, the filter 60 may include at least one of a fine filter, a coarse filter, or a micro filter.

[0070] FIG. 3 illustrates a tub and some components around the tub of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 illustrates the tub and some components around the tub of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from a direction different from the direction illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 illustrates a drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates the drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from a direction different from the direction illustrated in FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] The dishwasher 1 may include a drying device 80. The drying device 80 may dry dishes placed in the tub 12. The drying device 80 may supply dry air to the washing chamber C. The drying device 80 may heat air within the washing chamber C and supply the heated air back to the washing chamber C. The drying device 80 may be configured to lower humidity within the washing chamber C.

[0072] At least a portion of the drying device 80 may be disposed between the tub 12 and the main body 10. At least a portion of the drying device 80 may be disposed between the side wall 12b of the tub 12 and one side wall 10b (refer to FIG. 8) of the main body 10. At least a portion of the drying device 80 may be disposed in the machine room L.

[0073] The dishwasher 1 may include a water tank 100. The water tank 100 may be provided to store water to be supplied to the washing chamber C. As illustrated in the drawing, the water tank 100 may be provided as a component of the drying device 80. However, unlike as illustrated in the drawing, the water tank 100 may be provided as a separate component from the drying device 80.

[0074] The water tank 100 may be disposed on one side of the tub 12. The water tank 100 may be mounted on the outside of the tub 12. The water tank 100 may be disposed between the side wall 12b of the tub 12 and the side wall 10b (refer to FIG. 8) of the main body 10.

[0075] The water tank 100 may be formed by coupling a first tank case 101 and a second tank case 102. For example, the first tank case 101 and the second tank case 102 may be heat-sealed. By coupling the first tank case 101 to the second tank case 102, a storage space 110, an inlet duct 150, an outlet duct 160, a guide duct 190, and the like may be formed. For example, the water tank 100 may include the inlet duct 150, the outlet duct 160, and the guide duct 190.

[0076] The dishwasher 1 may include air ducts 150, 160, and 400. The drying device 80 may include the air ducts 150, 160, and 400. The air ducts 150, 160, and 400 may be in communication with the washing chamber C. The air ducts 150, 160, and 400 may be configured to allow air to flow. The air ducts 150, 160, and 400 may be configured to allow air within the washing chamber C to be introduced or to discharge air to the washing chamber C.

[0077] The dishwasher 1 may include the inlet duct 150 for allowing air discharged from the washing chamber C to flow. The inlet duct 150 may be provided to guide air discharged from the washing chamber C to a heat transfer device 500. The inlet duct 150 may guide moist air within the washing chamber C to the heat transfer device 500.

[0078] The dishwasher 1 may include the outlet duct 160 for discharging air into the washing chamber C. The outlet duct 160 may be provided to allow air passing through the heat transfer device 500 to flow. The outlet duct 160 may guide dry air generated by the heat transfer device 500 into the inside of the tub 12.

[0079] For example, the inlet duct 150 and the outlet duct 160 may each be disposed inside the water tank 100. That is, the inlet duct 150 and the outlet duct 160 may each be arranged between the side wall 12b of the tub 12 and one side wall 10a of the main body 10. The inlet duct 150 and the outlet duct 160 may be partitioned inside the water tank 100. The inlet duct 150 and the outlet duct 160 may extend along one outer surface of the tub 12. For example, the inlet duct 150 and the outlet duct 160 may have a shape extending in the up and down direction (Z direction). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example, and the inlet duct 150 and the outlet duct 160 may be formed as separate configurations from the water tank 100 and disposed outside the water tank 100.

[0080] The dishwasher 1 may include a connecting duct 400 connecting the inlet duct 150 and the outlet duct 160. The connecting duct 400 may receive the heat transfer device 500. A detailed description of the connecting duct 400 will be described later.

[0081] The dishwasher 1 may include the guide duct 190. The guide duct 190 may be provided to guide condensate to the washing chamber C. The condensate may refer to condensate generated in the air ducts 150, 160, and 400. The condensate may be generated when moist air discharged from the washing chamber C is dried by the heat transfer device 500 or when the moist air is condensed due to a temperature difference between the tub 12 and the main body 10. The guide duct 190 may be referred to as a condensate duct 190.

[0082] For example, the guide duct 190 may be disposed inside the water tank 100. That is, the guide duct 190 may be arranged between the side wall 12b of the tub 12 and the side wall 10a of the main body 10. The guide duct 190 may be partitioned from the inlet duct 150 and the outlet duct 160 inside the water tank 100. The guide duct 190 may extend along one outer surface of the tub 12. For example, the guide duct 190 may have a shape extending in the up and down direction (Z direction). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example, and the guide duct 190 may be formed as a separate configuration from the water tank 100 and arranged outside the water tank 100.

[0083] The dishwasher 1 may include a first inlet 170. The drying device 80 may include the first inlet 170. The first inlet 170 may allow the washing chamber C to communicate with the inlet duct 150. Air within the washing chamber C may be introduced into the inlet duct 150 through the first inlet 170.

[0084] The dishwasher 1 may include a first fan 300. The drying device 80 may include the first fan 300. The first fan 300 may be disposed in a position corresponding to the first inlet 170. The first fan 300 may form an air flow to introduce air within the washing chamber C into the air ducts 150, 160, and 400 or to discharge air within the air ducts 150, 160, and 400 into the washing chamber C.

[0085] The dishwasher 1 may include a first outlet 180. The drying device 80 may include the first outlet 180. The first outlet 180 may allow the washing chamber C to communicate with the outlet duct 160. The first outlet 180 may discharge air flowing through the outlet duct 160 into the washing chamber C. The first outlet 180 may allow the washing chamber C to communicate with the guide duct 190. Condensate flowing through the guide duct 190 may be discharged into the washing chamber C.

[0086] The dishwasher 1 may include the connecting duct 400 provided to allow the inlet duct 150 to communicate with the outlet duct 160. The connecting duct 400 may be provided at the lower side of the water tank 100. The connecting duct 400 may be disposed in the machine room L. The connecting duct 400 may be mounted on the base frame 20. The connecting duct 400 may be disposed behind the sump 70. The connecting duct 400 may be mounted on a rear end of the base frame 20 inside the machine room L.

[0087] The connecting duct 400 may be coupled to the water tank 100. As the connecting duct 400 is coupled to the water tank 100, the connecting duct 400 may connect the inlet duct 150 and the outlet duct 160. A flow path, through which air flowing from the inlet duct 150 flows toward the outlet duct 160, may be formed inside the connecting duct 400.

[0088] The connecting duct 400 may include a duct body 410, a first cover 420 coupled to one side of the duct body 410, and a second cover 430 coupled to the other side of the duct body 410. For example, the first cover 420 may be coupled to a lower side of the duct body 410, and the second cover 430 may be coupled to an upper side of the duct body 410. The first cover 420 may be disposed under the second cover 430. For example, the first cover 420 may include a bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400 and a drain hole 450 (refer to FIG. 11).

[0089] The connecting duct 400 may include a first connecting duct coupling portion 419 for connection with the inlet duct 150. For example, the first connecting duct coupling portion 419 may be formed in the duct body 410. As the first connecting duct coupling portion 419 of the connecting duct 400 is coupled to an inlet duct coupling portion 159 of the inlet duct 150, the connecting duct 400 and the inlet duct 150 may be connected. Accordingly, air introduced into the inlet duct 150 from the washing chamber C may flow into the connecting duct 400.

[0090] The connecting duct 400 may include a second connecting duct coupling portion 439 for connection with the outlet duct 160. For example, the second connecting duct coupling portion 439 may be formed on the second cover 430. As the second connecting duct coupling portion439 of the connecting duct 400 is coupled to an outlet duct coupling portion 169 of the outlet duct 160, the connecting duct 400 and the outlet duct 160 may be connected. Accordingly, air within the connecting duct 400 may be discharged to the washing chamber C through the outlet duct 160.

[0091] The connecting duct 400 may be provided to collect condensate. The bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400 may be provided to collect condensate. The connecting duct 400 may include a storage portion 440, and the storage portion 440 may store condensate separated from air. The storage portion 440 may include a predetermined space defined by the bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400 and a side wall of the connecting duct 400 extending upward from the bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400.

[0092] The dishwasher 1 may include the heat transfer device 500. The drying device 80 may include the heat transfer device 500. The heat transfer device 500 may be configured to cool or heat the air within the air ducts 150, 160, and 400.

[0093] The heat transfer device 500 may be disposed inside the connecting duct 400. The heat transfer device 500 may be received in the connecting duct 400. The heat transfer device 500 may be disposed in the machine room L. The heat transfer device 500 may be disposed under the tub 12. The heat transfer device 500 may be disposed under the lower surface 12c of the tub 12. The heat transfer device 500 may be located behind the sump 70.

[0094] The heat transfer device 500 may cool or heat the air within the connecting duct 400. The heat transfer device 500 may dry the air introduced through the inlet duct 150. The heat transfer device 500 may generate dry air. Humid air discharged from the washing chamber C may be dried while passing through the heat transfer device 500. The air passing through the heat transfer device 500 may be supplied to the washing chamber C through the outlet duct 160.

[0095] For example, the heat transfer device 500 may include at least one of a thermoelectric element 510, a heat pump, a heater, and a desiccant (for example, zeolite). For convenience of description, an example in which the heat transfer device 500 includes the thermoelectric element 510 will be described below.

[0096] The heat transfer device 500 may include the thermoelectric element 510. The thermoelectric element 510 may be a semiconductor element that converts electrical energy into thermal energy using the thermoelectric effect. The thermoelectric element 510 may also be referred to as a thermoelectric semiconductor element, a Peltier element, or the like. The thermoelectric element 510 may have a thin hexahedral shape. A substrate, electrodes, and the like may be provided inside the thermoelectric element 510.

[0097] The thermoelectric element 510 may include a heat-absorbing surface 511 and a heat-generating surface 512. When a current is applied to the thermoelectric element 510, heat absorption may occur on the heat-absorbing surface 511, and heat generation may occur on the heat-generating surface 512. The heat-absorbing surface 511 may be provided on one surface of the thermoelectric element 510, and the heat-generating surface 512 may be provided on the other surface of the thermoelectric element 510. For example, the heat-absorbing surface 511 may be provided on a lower surface of the thermoelectric element 510, and the heat-generating surface 512 may be provided on an upper surface of the thermoelectric element 510.

[0098] The heat transfer device 500 may include a wire 513 connected to the thermoelectric element 510 to supply power to the thermoelectric element 510. One end of the wire 513 may be coupled to one surface of the thermoelectric element 510.

[0099] The wire 513 may include a first wire 5131 and a second wire 5132. One end of the first wire 5131 may be coupled to one end of one surface of the thermoelectric element 510. One end of the second wire 5132 may be coupled to the other end of one surface of the thermoelectric element 510. For example, the thermoelectric element 510 may include a positive electrode and a negative electrode. One end of the first wire 5131 may be electrically connected to the positive electrode, and one end of the second wire 5132 may be electrically connected to the negative electrode.

[0100] The heat transfer device 500 may include a sealing member 520. The sealing member 520 may seal an outer surface of the thermoelectric element 510. In other words, the sealing member 520 may seal a space between the thermoelectric element 510 and the duct body 410. With this configuration, the sealing member 520 may block moisture or the like that may be introduced from the outside of the thermoelectric element 510.

[0101] The heat transfer device 500 may include a cooling portion 530. The cooling portion 530 may be disposed inside the connecting duct 400. The cooling portion 530 may be configured to cool air introduced through the inlet duct 150. The cooling portion 530 may be configured to cool air within the connecting duct 400. The cooling portion 530 may be provided to come into contact with the heat-absorbing surface 511 of the thermoelectric element 510. The cooling portion 530 may absorb heat from the air within the connecting duct 400 and transfer the absorbed heat to the thermoelectric element 510.

[0102] As the cooling portion 530 cools the air within the connecting duct 400, condensate may be generated in the cooling portion 530. The condensate generated in the cooling portion 530 may be collected within the connecting duct 400. The condensate generated in the cooling portion 530 may be collected in the storage portion 440 of the connecting duct 400.

[0103] The cooling portion 530 may be provided on one side of the thermoelectric element 510. For example, the cooling portion 530 may be provided on the lower side of the thermoelectric element 510. That is, the cooling portion 530 may be disposed between the duct body 410 and the first cover 420.

[0104] The cooling portion 530 may include a cooling plate 531. One surface of the cooling plate 531 may come into contact with the heat-absorbing surface 511 of the thermoelectric element 510. A cross-section of the cooling plate 531 may be wider than the heat-absorbing surface 511 of the thermoelectric element 510. With this configuration, cooling efficiency of the heat transfer device 500 may be increased.

[0105] The cooling portion 530 may include a plurality of cooling fins 532. Each of the plurality of cooling fins 532 may protrude from the other surface of the cooling plate 531.

[0106] Each of the plurality of cooling fins 532 may extend along a direction of air flow. The plurality of cooling fins 532 may be arranged in a direction intersecting a direction of air flow. For example, the plurality of cooling fins 532 may each extend in the left and right direction (Y direction), and the plurality of cooling fins 532 may be arranged in the front and rear direction (X direction). With this configuration, an area cooled by the cooling portion 530 may be increased. In other words, the cooling efficiency of the heat transfer device 500 may be increased.

[0107] The heat transfer device 500 may include a heating portion 540. The heating portion 540 may be disposed inside the connecting duct 400. The heating portion 540 may be configured to heat the air within the connecting duct 400. The heating portion 540 may be provided to come into contact with the heat-generating surface 512 of the thermoelectric element 510. The heating portion 540 may receive heat from the thermoelectric element 510 and release the received heat to the air within the connecting duct 400.

[0108] The heating portion 540 may be provided on the other side of the thermoelectric element 510. For example, the heating portion 540 may be provided on an upper side of the thermoelectric element 510. That is, the heating portion 540 may be disposed between the duct body 410 and the second cover 430.

[0109] The heating portion 540 may include a heating plate 541. One surface of the heating plate 541 may come into contact with the heat-generating surface 512 of the thermoelectric element 510. A cross-section of the heating plate 541 may be wider than the heat-generating surface 512 of the thermoelectric element 510. With this configuration, the heating efficiency of the heat transfer device 500 may be increased.

[0110] The heating portion 540 may include a plurality of heating fins 542. Each of the plurality of heating fins 542 may protrude from the other surface of the heating plate 541.

[0111] Each of the plurality of heating fins 542 may extend along the direction of air flow. The plurality of heating fins 542 may be arranged in a direction intersecting the direction of air flow. For example, the plurality of heating fins 542 may each extend in the left and right direction (Y direction), and the plurality of heating fins 542 may be arranged in the front and rear direction (X direction). With this configuration, an area heated by the heating portion 540 may be increased. In other words, the heating efficiency of the heat transfer device 500 may be increased.

[0112] The dishwasher 1 may include a self-priming pump 600. The drying device 80 may include the self-priming pump 600. The self-priming pump 600 may be configured to pump condensate. The self-priming pump 600 may be configured to pump condensate within the connecting duct 400. The self-priming pump 600 may discharge condensate generated within the connecting duct 400 to the outside of the connecting duct 400. The self-priming pump 600 may be referred to as a condensate pump 600.

[0113] The dishwasher 1 may include a first connecting pipe 710. The drying device 80 may include the first connecting pipe 710. The first connecting pipe 710 may connect the connecting duct 400 and the self-priming pump 600. The first connecting pipe 710 may guide condensate in the connecting duct 400 to the self-priming pump 600. The first connecting pipe 710 may transfer condensate in the connecting duct 400 to the self-priming pump 600. As the self-priming pump 600 operates, the condensate in the connecting duct 400 may flow to the self-priming pump 600 through the first connecting pipe 710.

[0114] The first connecting pipe 710 may be referred to as a first connecting hose 710, a first connecting tube 710, a first connecting channel 710, and the like.

[0115] The dishwasher 1 may include a second connecting pipe 720. The drying device 80 may include the second connecting pipe 720. The second connecting pipe 720 may connect the self-priming pump 600 and the guide duct 190. The second connecting pipe 720 may guide condensate within the self-priming pump 600 to the guide duct 190. The second connecting pipe 720 may transfer condensate within the self-priming pump 600 to the guide duct 190. As the self-priming pump 600 operates, the condensate within the self-priming pump 600 may flow to the guide duct 190 through the second connecting pipe 720.

[0116] The second connecting pipe 720 may be referred to as a second connecting hose 720, a second connecting tube 720, a second connecting channel 720, and the like.

[0117] Although it is illustrated that the first connecting pipe 710 and the second connecting pipe 720 are separate components, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The first connecting pipe 710 and the second connecting pipe 720 may be formed integrally. For example, the self-priming pump 600 may be a hose pump, and the first connecting pipe 710 and the second connecting pipe 720 may be provided as a single component and provided to penetrate a casing of the self-priming pump 600.

[0118] The dishwasher 1 may include a blower 800. The blower 800 may be configured to force air flow within the washing chamber C. The blower 800 may form an air current within the washing chamber C. The blower 800 may cause forced convection within the washing chamber C.

[0119] The blower 800 may be disposed on the other side of the tub 12. That is, the blower 800 may be disposed on the opposite side of the water tank 100. For example, the blower 800 may be disposed on the left side (−Y side) of the tub 12, and the water tank 100 may be disposed on the right side (+Y side) of the tub 12. However, the positions of the blower 800 and the water tank 100 are not limited to the above-described examples.

[0120] Air inside the washing chamber C may actively flow due to the air current formed by the blower 800 and the air current formed by the first fan 300 and the air ducts 150, 160, and 400. Accordingly, the drying efficiency of the dishwasher 1 may be increased.

[0121] The blower device 800 may include a blower duct 810. The blower duct 810 may communicate with the washing chamber C. The blower duct 810 may be provided to allow air within the washing chamber C to be introduced or to discharge air to the washing chamber C.

[0122] The blower 800 may include a second inlet (not shown), a second outlet 821, and a third outlet 822. Air drawn into the blower duct 810 through the second inlet (not shown) may pass through the blower duct 810 and be discharged through the second outlet 821 and the third outlet 822. Although it is illustrated that the blower 800 includes two outlets 821 and 822, there is no limitation on the number of outlets of the blower 800.

[0123] The blower device 800 may include a second fan (not shown). The second fan (not shown) may generate an air flow to draw air within the washing chamber C into the blower duct 810. The second fan (not shown) may be disposed inside the blower duct 810.

[0124] The dishwasher 1 may include a first inlet cover 910. The first inlet cover 910 may cover the first inlet 170 on the inside of the tub 12. The first inlet cover 910 may be coupled to the first inlet 170. The first inlet cover 910 may primarily prevent foreign substances within the washing chamber C from entering the air ducts 150, 160, and 400.

[0125] The dishwasher 1 may include a second inlet cover 920. The second inlet cover 920 may cover the second inlet (not shown) on the inside of the tub 12. The second inlet cover 920 may be coupled to the second inlet (not shown). The second inlet cover 920 may primarily prevent foreign substances within the washing chamber C from entering the blower duct 810.

[0126] FIG. 8 illustrates a flow of air in the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 illustrates the flow of air and a flow of condensate in the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a cutaway perspective view of a connecting duct of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0127] The water tank 100 may include the storage space 110 for storing water. The storage space 110 may be formed inside the water tank 100.

[0128] A plurality of guide ribs 111 may be formed in the storage space 110. The plurality of guide ribs 111 may guide water flowing into the storage space 110 to flow uniformly in various directions. Accordingly, a pressure applied to the water tank 100 by the water may be formed at a constant level, thereby preventing the swelling of the water tank 100.

[0129] The water stored in the storage space 110 may be softened through a softening device (not shown) provided inside or outside the water tank 100. In addition, water softened through the softening device (not shown) may be introduced into the storage space 110 and stored therein.

[0130] As described above, the water tank 100 may be disposed on one side of the tub 12. With this configuration, water stored in the storage space 110 may receive heat from the washing chamber C.

[0131] Water supplied to the storage space 110 from an external water source (not shown) may be provided at a relatively low temperature. After being supplied to the storage space 110, the water may receive heat from the washing chamber C, thereby having a temperature similar to that of the washing chamber C. Accordingly, an amount of energy required to heat the water stored in the storage space 110 to a predetermined temperature for a washing process may be reduced.

[0132] The water tank 100 may include a water level control channel 121 and a water level control opening 122. The water level control channel 121 and the water level control opening 122 may be formed inside the storage space 110. When an amount of water exceeding a predetermined level flows into the storage space 110, the excess amount of water may flow into the water level control channel 121 and be discharged into the washing chamber C through the water level control opening 122. Accordingly, an appropriate amount of water may always be stored inside the water tank 100.

[0133] The water tank 100 may include a water tank hole 130 provided to allow water to be introduced from external water source (not shown) or to be discharged to the sump 70 (refer to FIG. 2). The water tank hole 130 may be provided at a lower end of the water tank 100.

[0134] The water tank 100 may include a water inlet channel 140 connected to the water tank hole 130. Water flowing into the water tank 100 through the water tank hole 130 may pass through the water inlet channel 140 and be discharged into the storage space 110.

[0135] The dishwasher 1 may include a valve 200. The valve 200 may be configured to open or close a communication hole 112 provided at a lower end of the storage space 110. For example, the valve 200 may be provided as a solenoid valve.

[0136] Particularly, when the valve 200 opens the communication hole 112, water stored in the storage space 110 may be discharged to the sump 70 (refer to FIG. 2) through the water tank hole 130. In addition, when the valve 200 closes the communication hole 112, water supplied from an external water source (not shown) may flow into the storage space 110 by passing through the water tank hole 130 and the water inlet channel 140.

[0137] The flow of air is exemplarily described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 11. For convenience of description, the flow of air is indicated by dashed arrows in the drawings.

[0138] Air within the washing chamber C may flow into the inlet duct 150 through the first inlet 170. Air discharged from the washing chamber C may flow through the inlet duct 150. The inlet duct 150 may guide air discharged from the washing chamber C to the connecting duct 400.

[0139] The connecting duct 400 may receive air discharged from the inlet duct 150. The heat transfer device 500 may be disposed inside the connecting duct 400. The heat transfer device 500 may cool or heat the air within the connecting duct 400 to generate dry air. For example, the heat transfer device 500 may include the cooling portion 530 and the heating portion 540, and the air flowing within the connecting duct 400 may be dried while passing through the cooling portion 530 and the heating portion 540.

[0140] Air passing through the heat transfer device 500 may flow into the outlet duct 160. Air discharged from the connecting duct 400 may flow through the outlet duct 160. The outlet duct 160 may guide the air discharged from the connecting duct 400 to the washing chamber C. The air in the outlet duct 160 may flow into the washing chamber C through the first outlet 180.

[0141] In summary, air drawn into the inlet duct 150 from the washing chamber C may flow into the connecting duct 400 and then be discharged back into the washing chamber C via the outlet duct 160. That is, the air ducts 150, 160, and 400 may form a circulation flow path together with the washing chamber C.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 11, the connecting duct 400 may include a first flow path P1 and a second flow path P2. The first flow path P1 may be formed by coupling the duct body 410 to the first cover 420. The second flow path P2 may be formed by coupling the duct body 410 to the second cover 430. For example, the first flow path P1 and the second flow path P2 may each extend in the left and right direction (Y direction).

[0143] The first flow path P1 may be formed upstream of the second flow path P2. Air introduced into the connecting duct 400 from the inlet duct 150 may sequentially pass through a space between the duct body 410 and the first cover 420 and a space between the duct body 410 and the second cover 430 and flow into the outlet duct 160. Air introduced into the connecting duct 400 through the inlet duct 150 may sequentially pass through the first flow path P1 and the second flow path P2 and be discharged from the connecting duct 400 and flow into the outlet duct 160.

[0144] The cooling portion 530 may be disposed between the duct body 410 and the first cover 420. The cooling portion 530 may be disposed on the first flow path P1 formed between the duct body 410 and the first cover 420. The cooling portion 530 may cool the air flowing into the connecting duct 400 through the inlet duct 150. The first flow path P1 may be configured to cool the air flowing into the connecting duct 400 through the cooling portion 530.

[0145] The air flowing through the first flow path P1 may be cooled by the cooling portion 530. Accordingly, the first flow path P1 may be referred to as a cooling flow path P1.

[0146] The heating portion 540 may be disposed between the duct body 410 and the second cover 430. That is, the heating portion 540 may be disposed on the second flow path P2 formed between the duct body 410 and the second cover 430. The heating portion 540 may heat air that passes through the cooling portion 530. The heating portion 540 may heat air that passes through the first flow path P1. The second flow path P2 may be configured to heat the air, which passes through the first flow path P1, through the heating portion 540.

[0147] The air flowing through the second flow path P2 may be heated by the heating portion 540. Accordingly, the second flow path P2 may be referred to as a heating flow path P2.

[0148] The heating portion 540 may be positioned downstream of the cooling portion 530 based on the direction of air flow. Air introduced into the connecting duct 400 may be cooled by the cooling portion 530, and air cooled by passing through the cooling portion 530 may be heated again by the heating portion 540.

[0149] Air introduced into the connecting duct 400 may be air that is introduced from the washing chamber C through the inlet duct 150, and thus the air may have high-temperature and high-humidity. The cooling portion 530 may cool the high-temperature and high-humidity air to generate condensate, and simultaneously generate low-temperature and low-humidity air. The heating portion 540 may heat the air, which is cooled by the cooling portion 530, to generate high-temperature and low-humidity air. The high-temperature and low-humidity air that passes through the heating portion 540 may be discharged into the washing chamber C through the outlet duct 160. The air discharged into the washing chamber C may absorb moisture in the washing chamber C and become high-temperature and high-humidity air again. The high-temperature and high-humidity air may be introduced into the connecting duct 400 again through the inlet duct 150.

[0150] That is, the high temperature and high humidity air in the washing chamber C may become high temperature and low humidity air by passing through the air ducts 150, 160, and 400, and the high temperature and low humidity air may again become high temperature and high humidity air by absorbing moisture in the washing chamber C. In addition, the air in the washing chamber C may repeatedly proceed with the process described above while flowing along the circulation flow path formed by the washing chamber C and the air ducts 150, 160, and 400. Accordingly, moisture in the washing chamber C may be gradually removed.

[0151] Meanwhile, high-temperature air may have a higher saturated water vapor content than low-temperature air. In other words, high-temperature air may contain a greater amount of water vapor than low-temperature air. Therefore, a greater amount of moisture may be removed when high-temperature and low-humidity air is discharged into the washing chamber C than when low-temperature and low-humidity air is discharged into the washing chamber C. The outlet duct 160 may discharge high-temperature and low-humidity air, which is generated through the cooling portion 530 and the heating portion 540, into the washing chamber C. With this configuration, the drying efficiency of the dishwasher 1 may be increased.

[0152] A flow of condensate is exemplarily described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11. For convenience of description, the flow of condensate is indicated by solid arrows in the drawings.

[0153] As air flows through the air ducts 150, 160, and 400, condensate may be generated. Condensate may be generated as air discharged from the washing chamber C dries or as the air is condensed due to a temperature difference between the tub 12 and the main body 10.

[0154] Condensate may be collected in the connecting duct 400. The condensate may be stored in the storage portion 440 of the connecting duct 400. Condensate may be generated as high-temperature and high-humidity air passes through the cooling portion 530, and the condensate generated in the cooling portion 530 may fall to the bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400 due to its own weight. The bottom 400a of the duct 400 may be located below the cooling portion 530.

[0155] The connecting duct 400 may include the drain hole 450 provided to discharge condensate within the connecting duct 400. Condensate collected in the storage portion 440 may be discharged to the outside of the connecting duct 400 through the drain hole 450. The drain hole 450 may be provided at the lower end of the storage portion 440. The bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400 may guide condensate collected in the storage portion 440 to the drain hole 450. The bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400 may be formed to be inclined downward toward the drain hole 450. The condensate collected in the storage portion 440 may flow to the drain hole 450 by its own weight. The first connecting pipe 710 may be connected to the drain hole 450. The drain hole 450 may communicate with the first connecting pipe 710.

[0156] Condensate discharged from the drain hole 450 may flow to the self-priming pump 600 through the first connecting pipe 710. Condensate discharged from the self-priming pump 600 may flow to the guide duct 190 through the second connecting pipe 720. The guide duct 190 may connect the self-priming pump 600 and the tub 12, and may guide the condensate pumped by the self-priming pump 600 to the washing chamber C. A first end 191 of the guide duct 190 may communicate with the second connecting pipe 720, and the second end 192 of the guide duct 190 may communicate with the first outlet 180. Condensate flowing through the guide duct 190 may be discharged to the washing chamber C through the first outlet 180.

[0157] Condensate collected in the connecting duct 400 may flow to the washing chamber C by passing through the first connecting pipe 710, the self-priming pump 600, the second connecting pipe 720, the guide duct 190, and the first outlet 180.

[0158] The first outlet 180 may be positioned higher than a highest water level H (refer to FIG. 10) of the tub 12. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the condensate discharged through the first outlet 180 from flowing back. In addition, the water within the tub 12 may be prevented from flowing into the guide duct 190 through the first outlet 180.

[0159] For example, the first outlet 180 may discharge dry air, which flows through the outlet duct 160, into the washing chamber C during a drying process, and discharge condensate, which flows through the guide duct 190, into the washing chamber C before and / or after the drying process. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example, and the first outlet 180 may discharge dry air and condensate simultaneously into the washing chamber C as needed.

[0160] The guide duct 190 may discharge condensate to the washing chamber C rather than the sump 70. Because the guide duct 190 is not disposed in the machine room L, a space in the machine room L may be more easily secured. The condensate flowing through the guide duct 190 may not be mixed with contaminants filtered out by the filter 60 in the sump 70.

[0161] The guide duct 190 may discharge condensate into the washing chamber C rather than the outside of the main body 10. The condensate discharged into the washing chamber C may pass through the filter 60 and be stored in the sump 70. By reducing an amount of water required to fill the sump 70, the water usage of the dishwasher 1 may be reduced.

[0162] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the connecting duct and a self-priming pump of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 illustrates the connecting duct and the self-priming pump of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from in a direction different from the direction illustrated in FIG. 12. FIG. 14 is a side view of the connecting duct and the self-priming pump of the dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0163] The connecting duct 400 may include a pump holder 460 for holding the self-priming pump 600. The self-priming pump 600 may be detachably mounted on the pump holder 460. For example, the pump holder 460 may be formed on the duct body 410.

[0164] The dishwasher 1 may include a bracket 90. The bracket 90 may be configured to be coupled to the pump holder 460 so as to maintain the self-priming pump 600 mounted on the pump holder 460. When the self-priming pump 600 is mounted on the pump holder 460, the bracket 90 may be coupled to the pump holder 460. For example, the bracket 90 may be screw-coupled to the pump holder 460.

[0165] The connecting duct 400 may include a first pipe holder 470 for fixing the first connecting pipe 710. The first connecting pipe 710 may be detachably mounted to the first pipe holder 470. For example, the first pipe holder 470 may be formed on the first cover 420.

[0166] The connecting duct 400 may include a second pipe holder 480 for fixing the second connecting pipe 720. The second connecting pipe 720 may be detachably mounted to the second pipe holder 480. The second pipe holder 480 may be positioned above the first pipe holder 470. For example, the second pipe holder 480 may be formed on the duct body 410.

[0167] The connecting duct 400 may include a fixed rib 490. The fixed rib 490 may protrude downward from the bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400. The fixed rib 490 may be coupled to a fixed frame 22 protruding upward from a bottom 21 of the machine room L. The fixed rib 490 may be supported by the fixed frame 22. As the fixed rib 490 is supported by the fixed frame 22, the connecting duct 400 may be stably disposed in the machine room L.

[0168] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 14, the self-priming pump 600 may be disposed above a lowest end of the connecting duct 400. The self-priming pump 600 may be disposed above the bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400. The self-priming pump 600 may be disposed above the drain hole 450 of the connecting duct 400. The self-priming pump 600 may not be disposed under the connecting duct 400. Unlike as shown in the drawing, the self-priming pump 600 may not be disposed in the machine room L. For example, the self-priming pump 600 may be disposed above the machine room L. Unlike a general centrifugal pump, the self-priming pump 600 may pump condensate in the connecting duct 400 even when the self-priming pump 600 is not disposed under the connecting duct 400. Accordingly, the connecting duct 400 may be installed at the lowest possible position. Therefore, the space of the machine room L may be utilized more efficiently, and the area of the washing chamber C may be relatively increased.

[0169] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the connecting duct 400 and the self-priming pump 600 may be received in the machine room L. A distance d2 between the self-priming pump 600 and the bottom 21 of the machine room L may be greater than a distance d1 between the bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400 and the bottom 21 of the machine room L. Because the self-priming pump 600 is not disposed under the connecting duct 400, the distance d1 between the bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400 and the bottom 21 of the machine room L may be reduced. The connecting duct 400 may be disposed as close as possible to the bottom 21 of the machine room L.

[0170] Meanwhile, the self-priming pump 600 is a pump with its own suction capability, and may effectively pump water by utilizing the pressure difference with atmospheric pressure. Unlike a general centrifugal pump that must be placed lower than the drain hole to suck up water, the self-priming pump 600 may be flexibly placed in various environments regardless of the installation location. Particularly, the self-priming pump 600 may completely discharge the condensate in the connecting duct 400 without residual water compared to a general centrifugal pump, and thus may effectively prevent or reduce the formation of mold or rust that may occur in the connecting duct 400. In addition, due to these characteristics, restrictions on the type of heat transfer device 500 received in the connecting duct 400 may be reduced. For example, the heat transfer device 500 may include an open heater that is vulnerable to water. In addition, noise generated during operation of the self-priming pump 600 is lower than noise generated during operation of a general centrifugal pump, and the self-priming pump 600 does not require a separate priming operation, thereby making initial operation easy.

[0171] A dishwasher 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a tub 12 forming a washing chamber C; an inlet duct 150 configured to allow air discharged from the washing chamber C to flow; a heat transfer device 500 configured to dry air flowing through the inlet duct 150; an outlet duct 160 configured to allow air flowing through the heat transfer device 500 to flow; a connecting duct 400, connecting the inlet duct and the outlet duct, configured to receive the heat transfer device, and the connecting duct is configured to allow a bottom 400a of the connecting duct to collect condensate; and a self-priming pump 600 configured to pump condensate within the connecting duct 400. The self-priming pump 600 is above the bottom 400a of the connecting duct.

[0172] The dishwasher 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a machine room L under the washing chamber C. A distance d2 between the self-priming pump 600 and a bottom 21 of the machine room L may be greater than a distance d1 between the bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400 and the bottom 21 of the machine room L.

[0173] The dishwasher 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a guide duct 190 connecting the self-priming pump 600 and the tub 12 and configured to guide condensate pumped by the self-priming pump to the washing chamber C.

[0174] The dishwasher 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an outlet 180. The outlet 180 may connect the washing chamber C with the guide duct 190 and be configured to discharge condensate, which flows through the guide duct, to the washing chamber C.

[0175] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the outlet 180 may be positioned higher than a highest water level H of the tub 12.

[0176] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the outlet 180 may connect the washing chamber C with the outlet duct 160 and be configured to discharge air, flowing through the outlet duct, to the washing chamber C.

[0177] The dishwasher 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a first connecting pipe 710 connecting the connecting duct 400 and the self-priming pump 600 and configured to guide condensate in the connecting duct 400 to the self-priming pump 600. The dishwasher 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a second connecting pipe 720 connecting the self-priming pump 600 and the guide duct 190 and configured to guide condensate in the self-priming pump 600 to the guide duct 190.

[0178] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the connecting duct 400 may include a drain hole 450 configured to connect to the first connecting pipe 710 and discharge condensate within the connecting duct 400. The bottom 400a of the connecting duct 400 may be inclined downward toward the drain hole 450.

[0179] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heat transfer device 500 may include a cooling portion 530 configured to cool air flowing through the inlet duct; a heating portion 540 configured to heat air flowing through the cooling portion; and a thermoelectric element 510 including at least two sides, wherein a side contacts the cooling portion and an other side contacts the heating portion. The connecting duct 400 may include a duct body 410 including at least two sides, wherein the thermoelectric element is mounted on the duct body 410; a first cover 420 coupled to a side of the duct body forming a cooling flow path P1 for cooling air flowing into the connecting duct; and a second cover 430 coupled to an other side of the duct body forming a heating flow path P2 for heating air flowing through the cooling flow path.

[0180] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cover 420 may be under the second cover 430.

[0181] The dishwasher 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a water tank 100 to store water supplied to the washing chamber. The water tank 100 may include the inlet duct 150, the outlet duct 160, and the guide duct 190.

[0182] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the water tank 100 may be mounted on an outside of the tub 12.

[0183] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the connecting duct 400 may include a pump holder 460 configured to mount the self-priming pump 600.

[0184] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the connecting duct 400 may include a first pipe holder 470 configured to fix the first connecting pipe 710, and a second pipe holder 480 above the first pipe holder, the second pipe holder 480 being configured to fix the second connecting pipe 720.

[0185] The dishwasher 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a machine room L under the washing chamber C, the machine room L being configured to receive at least a portion of the connecting duct and the self-priming pump. The machine room L may include a fixed frame 22 protruding upward from the bottom 21 of the machine room. The connecting duct 400 may include a fixed rib 490 to protruding downward from the bottom of the connecting duct to couple with the fixed frame 22 of the machine room.

[0186] A dishwasher 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a tub 12 for forming a washing chamber C; an inlet duct 150 for allowing air discharged from the washing chamber C to flow; a heat transfer device 500 including a cooling portion 530 configured to cool air introduced through the inlet duct, and a heating portion 540 configured to heat air passing through the cooling portion; an outlet duct 160 for allowing air passing through the heating portion to flow; a connecting duct 400 for connecting the inlet duct and the outlet duct and for receiving the heat transfer device; a self-priming pump 600 for pumping condensate generated in the cooling portion 530; and a guide duct 190. The guide duct 190 may connect the self-priming pump 600 and the tub 12. The guide duct 190 may be provided to guide condensate pumped by the self-priming pump 600 to the washing chamber C.

[0187] The dishwasher 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an outlet 180 provided to discharge condensate, which is guided by the guide duct 190, to the washing chamber C. The outlet 180 may be disposed higher than a highest water level H of the tub 12.

[0188] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the self-priming pump 600 may be disposed above the bottom 400a of the connecting duct.

[0189] The dishwasher 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a first connecting pipe 710 provided to connect the connecting duct and the self-priming pump and provided to guide condensate in the connecting duct to the self-priming pump, and a second connecting pipe 720 provided to connect the self-priming pump and the guide duct and provided to transmit condensate in the self-priming pump to the guide duct.

[0190] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the connecting duct 400 may include a pump holder 460 for mounting the self-priming pump. The dishwasher 1 may further include a bracket 90 couplable to the pump holder so as to maintain the self-priming pump mounted on the pump holder.

[0191] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the dishwasher 1 may include a self-priming pump 600. The self-priming pump 600 may effectively discharge condensate. The self-priming pump 600 may discharge condensate to prevent residual water from remaining in the connecting duct 400. The self-priming pump 600 may be disposed above a lowest end of the connecting duct 400, and the connecting duct 400 may be disposed at a position as low as possible. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively utilize a space of the machine room L and to secure a relatively wider space in the washing chamber C.

[0192] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the dishwasher 1 may guide condensate to the washing chamber C. Because the condensate is discharged to the washing chamber C rather than the sump 70, contaminants filtered out by the filter 60 within the sump 70 may not flow to the self-priming pump 600. Because the condensate is discharged to the washing chamber C rather than the outside of the main body 10, the water usage of the dishwasher 1 may be reduced.

[0193] Additional aspects of the disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the disclosure.

[0194] While the present disclosure has been particularly described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood by those of skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A dishwasher comprising:a tub forming a washing chamber;an inlet duct configured to allow air discharged from the washing chamber to flow;a heat transfer device configured to dry air flowing through the inlet duct;an outlet duct configured to allow air flowing through the heat transfer device to flow;a connecting duct, connecting the inlet duct and the outlet duct, configured to receive the heat transfer device, and the connecting duct is configured to allow a bottom of the connecting duct to collect condensate; anda self-priming pump, above the bottom of the connecting duct, the self-priming pump configured to pump condensate within the connecting duct.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising:a machine room under the washing chamber,wherein a distance between the self-priming pump and a bottom of the machine room is greater than a distance between the bottom of the connecting duct and the bottom of the machine room.

3. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising:a guide duct, connecting the self-priming pump and the tub, configured to guide condensate pumped by the self-priming pump to the washing chamber.

4. The dishwasher of claim 3, further comprising:an outlet connecting the washing chamber with the guide duct, the outlet configured to discharge condensate flowing through the guide duct to the washing chamber.

5. The dishwasher of claim 4, whereinthe outlet is positioned higher than a highest water level of the tub.

6. The dishwasher of claim 4, whereinthe outlet connects the washing chamber with the outlet duct and is configured to discharge air flowing through the outlet duct to the washing chamber.

7. The dishwasher of claim 3, further comprising:a first connecting pipe, connecting the connecting duct and the self-priming pump, configured to guide condensate in the connecting duct to the self-priming pump; anda second connecting pipe, connecting the self-priming pump and the guide duct, configured to guide condensate in the self-priming pump to the guide duct.

8. The dishwasher of claim 7, wherein the connecting duct comprisesa drain hole configured to connect to the first connecting pipe, the drain hole being configured to discharge condensate within the connecting duct,wherein the bottom of the connecting duct is inclined downward toward the drain hole.

9. The dishwasher of claim 7, wherein:the heat transfer device comprises:a cooling portion configured to cool air flowing through the inlet duct;a heating portion configured to heat air flowing through the cooling portion; anda thermoelectric element including at least two sides, wherein a side contacts the cooling portion and an other side contacts the heating portion, andthe connecting duct comprises:a duct body including at least two sides, wherein the thermoelectric element is mounted on the duct body;a first cover coupled to a side of the duct body forming a cooling flow path for cooling air flowing into the connecting duct; anda second cover coupled to an other side of the duct body forming a heating flow path for heating air flowing through the cooling flow path.

10. The dishwasher of claim 9, whereinthe first cover is under the second cover.

11. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising:a water tank to store water supplied to the washing chamber, the water tank comprising: the inlet duct, the outlet duct, and a guide duct.

12. The dishwasher of claim 11, whereinthe water tank is mounted on an outside of the tub.

13. The dishwasher of claim 1, whereinthe connecting duct comprises: a pump holder configured to mount the self-priming pump.

14. The dishwasher of claim 7, whereinthe connecting duct comprises:a first pipe holder configured to fix the first connecting pipe; anda second pipe holder, above the first pipe holder, the second pipe holder being configured to fix the second connecting pipe.

15. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising:a machine room, under the washing chamber, the machine room being configured to receive at least a portion of the connecting duct and the self-priming pump, and the machine room including a fixed frame protruding upward from the bottom of the machine room, andwherein the connecting duct comprises:a fixed rib protruding downward from the bottom of the connecting duct to couple with the fixed frame of the machine room.

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