Dishwasher

Abstract

A dishwasher comprises a tub in which dishes are accommodated. The dishwasher comprises a mounting portion disposed under the tub. The dishwasher comprises a compressor mounted on the mounting portion. The compressor compresses refrigerant. The dishwasher comprises a sump mounted on the mounting portion. Washing water may be stored in the sump. The dishwasher comprises a washing pump mounted on the mounting portion. The washing pump transfers the washing water. The dishwasher comprises a fixing member coupled to the mounting portion. The compressor is coupled to the fixing member. The fixing member is made of a vibration absorbing material.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and benefit of Korean Patent Applications No. 10-2025-0024363 filed on February 25, 2025, 10-2025-0032609 filed on March 13, 2025, 10-2025-0042750 filed on April 2, 2025, and 10-2025-0091201 filed on July 7, 2025 which are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.BACKGROUNDField

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher, and more particularly, to a dishwasher equipped with a heat pump system for heating washing water.Description of Related Art

[0003] Content described in this section merely provides background information on the present disclosure and does not constitute the prior art.

[0004] A dishwasher is an apparatus that uses detergent and washing water to wash food residues such as food scraps on dishes or cookware.

[0005] A general dishwasher comprises a tub providing a washing space, a rack provided in the tub and accommodating therein dishes, a spray arm spraying the washing water to the rack, a sump storing therein the washing water, and a pump supplying the washing water stored in the sump to the spray arm.

[0006] A temperature of the washing water used in the dishwasher may be room temperature. However, washing efficiency may be improved and a washing time may be reduced by using high-temperature washing water. Accordingly, washing or rinsing of the dishes may be performed using the high-temperature washing water in at least a portion of an operation process of the dishwasher.

[0007] A heating device for heating the washing water may be provided as, for example, an electric heater, a heat pump system, or the like.

[0008] Since the heat pump system has higher energy efficiency compared to the electric heater, a case in which a washing water heating scheme using the heat pump system is introduced into the dishwasher is increasing recently.

[0009] The heat pump system may be provided with a compressor that compresses refrigerant to form a gas in a high temperature and high pressure state. Among the components constituting the heat pump system, the compressor may operate most dynamically.

[0010] Accordingly, there is a need for a structure which the compressor is supported on and fixed to so as to operate stably in the dishwasher.

[0011] In addition, in the compressor, a rotating part such as a scroll or a blade may rotate at high speed. Accordingly, vibration and noise due to vibration may be generated in the compressor.

[0012] The vibration can adversely affect the compressor and other components in the dishwasher. In addition, the noise generated by the vibration of the compressor may cause inconvenience to the user.

[0013] Accordingly, there is a need for a structure capable of reducing the vibration and the noise generated by the compressor.

[0014] Meanwhile, as the compressor operates, the high-temperature heat may be generated in the compressor. Such high-temperature heat is released to the outside and can become useless waste heat. Therefore, in order to increase the energy efficiency of the heat pump system, a structure capable of recovering such waste heat is required.SUMMARY

[0015] A technical purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a structure which a compressor is supported on and fixed to so as to operate stably in the dishwasher.

[0016] Another technical purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a structure capable of effectively reducing vibration and noise generated by a compressor.

[0017] Still another technical purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a structure capable of recovering high temperature waste heat generated from a compressor.

[0018] Purposes according to the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned purpose. Other purposes and advantages according to the present disclosure that are not mentioned may be understood based on following descriptions, and may be more clearly understood based on embodiments according to the present disclosure. Further, it will be easily understood that the purposes and advantages according to the present disclosure may be realized using means shown in the claims or combinations thereof.

[0019] The dishwasher according to an embodiment may comprise a tub in which dishes are accommodated.

[0020] The dishwasher may comprise a mounting portion disposed under the tub.

[0021] The dishwasher may comprise a compressor mounted on the mounting portion. The compressor may compress the refrigerant.

[0022] The dishwasher may comprise a sump mounted on the mounting portion. Wash water may be stored in the sump.

[0023] The dishwasher may comprise a washing pump mounted on the mounting portion. The washing pump may transfer washing water.

[0024] The dishwasher may comprise a fixing member that is coupled to the mounting portion. The compressor may be coupled to the fixing member.

[0025] The mounting portion may comprise a coupling protrusion protruding upwardly from an upper surface of the mounting portion. The fixing member may be coupled to the coupling protrusion.

[0026] The fixing member may comprise protrusions and depressions formed thereon and therein and arranged alternately with each other in an up-down direction of the dishwasher.

[0027] Correspondingly, the compressor may comprise a mounting protrusion disposed at a lower end and protruding in a lateral direction thereof. The mounting protrusion may have a hole defined therein into which the fixing member is inserted,

[0028] The mounting protrusion may be mounted in one of the depressions of the fixing member.

[0029] The coupling protrusion may include at least three coupling protrusions, wherein the coupling protrusions may be radially arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other.

[0030] The mounting portion may comprise a blocking wall extending so as to surround the plurality of coupling protrusions. The blocking wall may protrude upwardly from the upper surface of the mounting portion.

[0031] The dishwasher may comprise a waste heat recovery pipe extending so as to be wound multiple times on an outer circumferential surface of the compressor. The refrigerant may flow in the waste heat recovery pipe. The waste heat recovery pipe may absorb heat generated from the compressor.

[0032] The dishwasher may further comprise an evaporator, wherein while the refrigerant flows in the evaporator, the refrigerant evaporates. The waste heat recovery pipe may be constructed to connect the compressor and the evaporator to each other. The waste heat recovery pipe may extend between a refrigerant outlet of the evaporator and a refrigerant inlet of the compressor.

[0033] The compressor may comprise a body that compresses the refrigerant. The body may define an outer shape of the compressor.

[0034] The compressor may further comprise a gas-liquid separator communicating with a refrigerant inlet of the body and configured to separate liquid and gas contained in the refrigerant from each other.

[0035] The waste heat recovery pipe may be constructed to communicate with the gas-liquid separator.

[0036] The body may be formed in a cylindrical shape and oriented so that a longitudinal direction of the body is parallel to an up-down direction of the dishwasher. The waste heat recovery pipe may be constructed to be wound around the body a plurality of times.

[0037] The dishwasher may further comprise a vibration absorption portion disposed outside the body and coupled to the body, wherein the vibration absorption portion may be made of a vibration absorbing material, wherein the waste heat recovery pipe may pass through the vibration absorption portion.

[0038] The waste heat recovery pipe may have a plurality of winding wound around the body, and the windings may be spaced apart from each other in the up-down direction. Each of the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe may be disposed to pass through the vibration absorption portion such that a spacing between adjacent ones of the windings is maintained to be constant.

[0039] In the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the compressor may be coupled to the mounting portion via the fixing member made of the vibration absorbing material.

[0040] Due to this structure, a substantial portion of the vibration generated from the compressor as the compressor operates may be absorbed by the fixed member. Therefore, the amount of the vibration propagated to the mounting portion may be very small.

[0041] Accordingly, the vibration generated from the compressor may be prevented from being propagated to the mounting portion, and thus the impact applied to other components provided in the mounting portion due to the vibration may be effectively suppressed.

[0042] In addition, the phenomenon that all the components disposed on the mounting portion vibrate, thereby causing the noise may be effectively suppressed. Such noise is suppressed, such that convenience may be provided to the user.

[0043] [Moreover, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the mounting protrusion of the compressor may be stably and conveniently mounted into the depression of the fixing member or may be removed from the depression.

[0044] Due to this structure, the compressor may be supported onto and fixed to the mounting portion using the fixing member and thus may stably operate in the dishwasher.

[0045] In addition, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the refrigerant is preheated in the waste heat recovery pipe and then introduced into the compressor, so that the compressor can perform less work such that the refrigerant reaches set outlet pressure and outlet temperature of the refrigerant. Therefore, the waste heat recovery pipe may effectively increase the energy efficiency of the compressor.

[0046] The compressor can also be cooled by the waste heat recovery pipe. Accordingly, overheating of the compressor may be effectively suppressed.

[0047] Moreover, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the vibration absorption portion absorbs the vibration of the compressor body and the waste heat recovery pipe, thereby effectively suppressing the vibration of the compressor body and the noise generated therefrom.

[0048] The vibration absorption portion may maintain the up-down spacing between the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe to be constant. Accordingly, the phenomenon that the separation distance or spacing between adjacent ones of the windings is changed to become irregular, and thus the heat exchange efficiency between the body and the waste heat recovery pipe is deteriorated may be effectively prevented.

[0049] In addition to the above-described effects, the specific effects of the present disclosure will be described together while describing specific matters for carrying out the present disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0050] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0051] FIG. 2 is a diagram for illustrating a component disposed in a base in a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state in which a compressor is mounted on a mounting portion.

[0053] FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state in which the compressor is removed from FIG. 3.

[0054] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a fixing member according to an embodiment.

[0055] FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating a portion of the mounting portion on which the compressor is disposed.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS

[0056] The above-mentioned purposes, features, and advantages will be described in detail later with reference to the attached drawings, so that those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs may easily practice the technical ideas of the present disclosure. In describing the present disclosure, when it is determined that a detailed description of the publicly known technology related to the present disclosure may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the drawings, identical reference numerals are used to indicate identical or similar components.

[0057] Although first, second, and the like are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by such terms. Such terms are only used to distinguish one component from another component, and unless specifically stated to the contrary, a first component may also be a second component.

[0058] Throughout the present document, unless otherwise stated, each component may be singular or plural.

[0059] As used herein, singular expressions comprise plural expressions, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In the present application, terms such as “composed of” or “include” should not be construed as necessarily including all of various components or steps described herein, and should be interpreted as being able to not including some of the components or the steps and further including additional components or steps.

[0060] Throughout the present disclosure, "A and / or B" means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise specified, and "C to D" means C inclusive to D inclusive unless otherwise specified.

[0061] As used herein, terms such as "upper”, “lower”, “side", etc. are used to refer to a portion, a direction, and the like of a dishwasher in a state where the dishwasher is generally installed.

[0062] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment. The dishwasher according to an embodiment may comprise a casing 11 defining an outer appearance of the dishwasher, a tub 12 in which dishes to be washed are accommodated, a door 20 provided on a front surface of the tub 12 to open and close the tub 12, and a sump 100 disposed under the tub 12 to store therein washing water.

[0063] The dishwasher may further comprise a plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 provided in the tub 12 and spraying the washing water, a filter 110 provided in the sump 100 and filtering washing water sprayed from at least one of the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 and recovered to the sump 100, a washing pump 150 transferring the washing water stored in the sump 100, and a switching valve 130 controlling selective flow of the washing water transferred under the operation of the washing pump 150 to at least one of the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15.

[0064] The tub 12 may be formed in a hexahedral shape with an open front surface and may have a washing chamber 12a defined therein. A communication hole through which washing water flows into the sump 100 is formed in a bottom 12b of the tub 12. In the washing chamber 12a, a plurality of racks 16 and 17 in which a washing target is accommodated is disposed. The plurality of racks 16 and 17 may comprise a lower rack 16 disposed in a lower area of the washing chamber 12a and an upper rack 17 disposed in an upper area of the washing chamber 12a. The lower rack 16 and the upper rack 17 are disposed to be spaced apart from each other in an up-down direction, and may slide in the frontward direction of the tub 12 and extend from the tub 12.

[0065] The plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 are arranged in the up-down direction. The plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 may comprise a lower spray arm 13 disposed at the lowermost end and spraying the washing water in an upward direction toward the lower rack 16, an upper spray arm 14 disposed on top of the lower spray arm 13 and spraying the washing water upwardly toward the upper rack 17, and a top spray arm 15 disposed at the upper end of the washing chamber 12a and on top of the upper spray arm 14 and spraying the washing water downwardly.

[0066] The plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 are supplied with the washing water from the washing pump 150 through a plurality of spray arm connection flow paths 18, 19, and 21. The plurality of spray arm connection flow paths 18, 19, and 21 may comprise a lower spray arm connection flow path 18 connected to the lower spray arm 13, an upper spray arm connection flow path 19 connected to the upper spray arm 14, and a top spray arm connection flow path 21 connected to the top spray arm 15.

[0067] The lower spray arm 13, the upper spray arm 14, and the top spray arm 15 may be supplied with the washing water from the washing pump 150 through the upper spray arm connection flow path 18, the upper spray arm connection flow path 19, and the top spray arm connection flow path 21, respectively.

[0068] The sump 100 may be disposed under the bottom 12b of the tub 12 and may collect the washing water. The filter 110 may filter contaminants from the washing water flowing from the tub 12 to the sump 100.

[0069] The wash water sprayed through the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 along with the contaminants deposited on and removed from the washing target drops to the bottom 12b of the tub 12. Accordingly, the washing water containing the contaminants may be filtered while flowing through the filter 110 communicating with the bottom 12b of the tub 12 and thus the contaminants-free washing water may be stored in the sump 100.

[0070] During the washing operation, the washing water may wash the dishes accommodated in the racks 16 and 17 while circulating through the sump 100, the spray arms 13, 14, and 15, the tub 12, and the filter 110.

[0071] The washing pump 150 supplies the washing water stored in the sump 100 to at least one of the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15. The washing pump 150 may comprise a washing motor that generates a rotational force, and an impeller that is rotated by the washing motor to transfer the washing water. The washing pump 150 may be connected to the switching valve 130 and a washing water supply flow path 180.

[0072] When the washing pump 150 operates, the washing water stored in the sump 100 may be introduced into the washing pump 150 through a water collection flow path 170 and then transferred to the switching valve 130 through the washing water supply flow path 180.

[0073] The switching valve 130 selectively supplies the washing water transferred under the operation of the washing pump 150 to at least one of the lower spray arm 13, the upper spray arm 14, and the top spray arm 15. The switching valve 130 may selectively connect the washing water supply flow path 180 to at least one of the plurality of spray arm connection flow paths 18, 19, and 21.

[0074] The sump 100 is connected to a water supply flow path 23 through which the washing water supplied from an external water source flows. A water supply valve 22 for controlling flow of the washing water supplied from the external water source may be provided in the water supply flow path 23. The water supply valve 22 may control supply of the washing water from the external water source to the sump 100. When the water supply valve 22 is opened, the washing water supplied from the external water source may be introduced into the sump 100 through the water supply flow path 23.

[0075] The sump 100 may be connected to a drain flow path 24 for draining the washing water to the outside out of the dishwasher. A drain pump 25 for draining the washing water in the sump 100 through the drain flow path 24 may be provided in the drain flow path 24. When the drain pump 25 operates, the washing water stored in the sump 100 may be drained to the outside out of the casing 11 through the drain flow path 24.

[0076] A heating device for heating the washing water may be provided inside the sump 100 or in the washing pump 150. The heating device may be provided as, for example, an electric heater, a heat pump system, or the like.

[0077] In an embodiment, the washing water may be heated using the heat pump system. Hereinafter, the heat pump system will be described first.

[0078] The heat pump system refers to a system that pumps heat from a low temperature environment into a high temperature environment. In this regard, the pumping of the heat may be implemented using, for example, the compressor 500. In an embodiment, the heat pump system may be implemented using a so-called two-phase flow refrigeration cycle that increases the temperature of the refrigerant by compressing the refrigerant flowing in two phases into a gaseous state using a compressor 500.

[0079] The heat pump system for performing the two-phase flow refrigeration cycle may comprise the compressor 500, a condenser 300, an expansion device, and an evaporator 600. These components are connected to each other through pipes. While the refrigerant is flowing and circulating these components, the phase thereof and the temperature thereof change, such that the refrigerant may absorb heat from the surroundings or emit the heat to the surroundings.

[0080] The refrigerant may be introduced into the compressor 500 in a low temperature gaseous state. The refrigerant may be compressed in the compressor 500. From an outlet of the compressor 500, the refrigerant may be introduced into the condenser 300 in a super-heated gas state of the high temperature and high pressure.

[0081] The refrigerant and the washing water may flow separately in the condenser 300. The refrigerant may be introduced into the condenser 300 and exchange the heat with the washing water, and the washing water may be heated upon receiving the heat from the refrigerant.

[0082] The refrigerant may be phase-changed from the superheated gas state to a saturated state in which liquid and gas coexist while the refrigerant is maintained at theoretically the same pressure in the condenser 300.

[0083] The refrigerant flows into the condenser 300 in the superheated state and transfers the heat to the washing water such that the temperature of the refrigerant is lowered. Then, when the refrigerant reaches the saturated state, a proportion of the liquid therein may gradually increase while the refrigerant is maintained theoretically at the same temperature. In this liquefaction process, the refrigerant emits a large amount of latent heat of liquefaction, and the washing water may be heated upon receiving the heat.

[0084] The refrigerant from the condenser 300 may be introduced into the expansion device in the saturated liquid or a super cooled liquid state. Such an expansion device may be provided as, for example, an expansion valve or a capillary device.

[0085] The refrigerant may undergo an adiabatic expansion, i.e., an expansion in which the enthalpy is theoretically constant in the expansion device. In this expansion process, a portion of the refrigerant is vaporized, and accordingly, the pressure of the refrigerant may be lowered. As the portion of the refrigerant is vaporized to dissipate the heat of vaporization to the surroundings, the temperature of the entirety of the refrigerant may be lowered. That is, the refrigerant may be introduced into the evaporator 600 in a state of low temperature and low pressure obtained while flowing through the expansion device.

[0086] When the refrigerant is introduced into the evaporator 600, the proportion of gas in the refrigerant may gradually increase in the evaporator 600 while absorbing the heat from the relatively high temperature surroundings. In the evaporator 600, the proportion of the gas in the refrigerant may gradually increase while the refrigerant is maintained at theoretically the same pressure and the same temperature.

[0087] The refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 may be introduced into the compressor 500 in a state in which a small amount of liquid is present in the refrigerant or the refrigerant is slightly overheated. The refrigerant introduced into the compressor 500 may circulate through the compressor 500, the condenser 300, the expansion device, and the evaporator 600 while repeating the above-described process again.

[0088] Typically, a refrigeration apparatus uses a principle in which the refrigerant absorbs the heat in the evaporator 600. The heat pump system of an embodiment may use the heat released from the refrigerant in the condenser 300.

[0089] In the heat pump system, the heat exchange occurs between the high temperature refrigerant and the relatively low temperature washing water in the condenser 300, and thus the washing water may be heated. The high-temperature washing water heated by the condenser 300 may wash or rinse the dishes more easily than the washing water at room temperature.

[0090] In this regard, such a heat pump system does not always need to operate while the dishwasher is operating the washing or rinsing process. For example, when the washing or rinsing is performed using the washing water at the room temperature, the compressor 500 does not operate, so that the water at the room temperature may be sprayed to the dishes without heating the washing water.

[0091] Even when the compressor 500 is stopped and the washing water is not heated, the washing water may flow through the condenser 300 and circulate throughout the dishwasher.

[0092] In another embodiment, a bypass flow path bypassing the condenser 300 may be defined. Thus, when the compressor 500 is stopped, the washing water may flow along the bypass flow path to bypass the condenser, thereby improving the performance of the condenser 300 and extending its lifespan.

[0093] FIG. 2 is a diagram for illustrating components disposed in a base 30 in the dishwasher according to an embodiment. The components constituting the heat pump system may be disposed, for example, under the tub 12.

[0094] The dishwasher may comprise the base 30 disposed under the tub 12. The heat pump system and other devices for driving the dishwasher may be disposed in the base 30. The base 30 has an inner space defined therein positioned under the tub 12, and the inner space may act as a machine room in which various mechanical components are disposed.

[0095] The dishwasher may comprise a mounting portion 40 on which the condenser 300 is mounted. The mounting portion 40 may be disposed in the base 30. The mounting portion 40 may be disposed under the tub 12.

[0096] The mounting portion 40 may be generally formed in a plate shape. Various components may be coupled to an upper surface of the mounting portion 40.

[0097] The mounting portion 40 may be disposed inside the base 30. The mounting portion 40 may be easily removed from the base 30. For example, the mounting portion 40 may be mounted to the base 30 using a fastening means. The fastening means may be unfastened, and the mounting portion 40 may move in a sliding manner as shown by arrows in FIG. 2 and thus may be removed from the base 30.

[0098] While the mounting portion 40 is guided by a guide rail formed on an inner side surface of the base 30, the mounting portion may slide to extend from the base 30.

[0099] The condenser 300 may be disposed on the mounting portion 40. The refrigerant and the washing water may flow in a separate manner in the condenser 300. The refrigerant may be condensed in the condenser 300. The refrigerant may be condensed to release latent heat of condensation such that the washing water may be heated by the heat released from the refrigerant.

[0100] Although not shown, the expansion valve may be disposed at an appropriate position of the mounting portion 40. Since a size of the expansion valve is smaller than a size of each of the other components constituting the heat pump system, the expansion value may be appropriately disposed on a spare space of the mounting portion 40.

[0101] The dishwasher may comprise a water softener device 41 for producing soft water. The water softener device 41 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40. The soft water is water that contains very little minerals such as calcium and magnesium, or does not contain the minerals such as calcium and magnesium. When washing the dishes using the soft water, the washing efficiency of the dishes may be improved, and the lifespan of the dishes may be increased. Therefore, it is necessary to wash the dishes using the soft water as needed.

[0102] In an embodiment, the washing water may be introduced into the water softener device 41, and the water may be converted into the soft water using the water softener device 41, and then the soft water may be used for dishwashing. However, the water softener device 41 is not an essential component of the dishwasher.

[0103] The water softener device 41 may communicate with the sump 100 through a pipe. Accordingly, the water introduced into the water softener device 41 may be softened by the water softener device 41. The soft water discharged from the water softener device 41 may be introduced into the sump 100 and used for washing the dishes.

[0104] The dishwasher may comprise the sump 100 in which the washing water is stored. The sump 100 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40. The sump 100 may be disposed under the tub 12.

[0105] The washing water stored in the sump 100 may flow under an operation of the washing pump 150 and may wash the dishes accommodated in the tub 12 while circulating through the sump 100, the washing pump 150, the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15, and the tub 12.

[0106] In this regard, the washing water is heated by the heat pump system and sprayed from the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 in a high temperature state to wash or rinse the dishes accommodated in the tub 12, thereby improving washing efficiency.

[0107] In addition, the washing pump 150 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40. In addition, the compressor 500 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40. The compressor 500 may compress the refrigerant. In addition, the evaporator 600 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40.

[0108] As described above, the compressor 500, the condenser 300, the expansion device, and the evaporator 600 constituting the heat pump system communicate with each other through pipes, and the refrigerant may undergo phase change such that the temperature and pressure thereof change while circulating through each of the components constituting the heat pump system.

[0109] Meanwhile, when the washing pump 150 operates, the washing water may sequentially flow through the washing pump 150, the condenser 300, the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15, the tub 12, and the sump 100, and may be introduced into the washing pump 150 again and may circulate the above-described components again.

[0110] The compressor 500 may compress the refrigerant to form a gas in a high temperature and high pressure state. Accordingly, among the components constituting the heat pump system, the compressor 500 may operate most dynamically.

[0111] Accordingly, a structure that is stably supported onto and fixed to the mounting portion 40 so that the compressor 500 operates stably in the dishwasher is required.

[0112] Moreover, a rotating part such as a scroll or a blade of the compressor 500 may rotate at a high speed. Accordingly, vibration and noise due to the vibration may be generated from the compressor 500.

[0113] The vibration may adversely affect the compressor 500 and other components provided in the dishwasher. In addition, noise generated by vibration of the compressor 500 may cause inconvenience to the user.

[0114] Accordingly, there is a need for a fixing structure fixing the compressor 500 to the mounting portion 40 and thus capable of reducing vibration and noise generated by the compressor 500.

[0115] Meanwhile, as the compressor 500 operates, the high temperature heat may be generated from the compressor 500. Such high-temperature heat may be released to the outside and become useless waste heat. Therefore, in order to increase the energy efficiency of the heat pump system, a structure capable of recovering such waste heat is required.

[0116] Hereinafter, this will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0117] FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state in which the compressor 500 is mounted on the mounting portion 40. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state in which the compressor 500 is removed from FIG. 3.

[0118] The compressor 500 of an embodiment may generally have a cylindrical shape and a length thereof may extend in an up-down direction. Accordingly, the compressor 500 may be constructed such that a bottom thereof is coupled to the mounting portion 40.

[0119] The dishwasher may comprise a fixing member 700 coupled to the mounting portion 40. The compressor 500 may be coupled to the fixing member 700. The fixing member 700 may be made of a vibration absorbing material.

[0120] For example, the fixing member 700 may be made of a material including rubber, silicon, or the like having excellent vibration absorption properties.

[0121] Accordingly, the compressor 500 may be coupled to the mounting portion 40 via the fixing member 700 made of the vibration absorbing material.

[0122] Due to this structure, as the compressor 500 operates, a substantial portion of the vibration generated from the compressor 500 may be absorbed by the fixing member 700. Therefore, the amount of such vibration propagated to the mounting portion 40 may be very small.

[0123] Accordingly, the vibration generated from the compressor 500 may be prevented from being propagated to the mounting portion 40, and thus, the impact applied to other components mounted on the mounting portion 40 due to the vibration may be effectively suppressed.

[0124] In addition, a phenomenon that all the components disposed on the mounting portion 40 vibrate to generate the noise may be effectively suppressed. The noise is suppressed, such that convenience may be provided to the user.

[0125] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating the fixing member 700 according to an embodiment.

[0126] The mounting portion 40 may comprise a coupling protrusion 40-1 protruding upwardly from an upper surface of the mounting portion 40. The fixing member 700 may be coupled to the coupling protrusion 40-1.

[0127] A fastening hole may be formed in the coupling protrusion 40-1. A fastening means such as a screw or the like may be coupled to the fastening hole. In one example, a hole may be formed in the fixing member 700. Accordingly, the fastening means may pass through the fixing member 700 and be inserted into the fastening hole. Accordingly, the fixing member 700 may be firmly fixed to the coupling protrusion 40-1 using the fastening means.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 5, protrusions 710 and depressions 720 may be formed on and in the fixing member 700, and may be arranged alternately with each other in the up-down direction. A plurality of protrusions 710 and a plurality of depressions 720 may be provided, and the protrusions 710 and the depressions 720 may be alternately arranged in the up-down direction of the dishwasher.

[0129] Correspondingly, the compressor 500 may comprise a mounting protrusion 510 disposed at the bottom thereof and protruding laterally. A hole into which the fixing member 700 is inserted may be formed in the mounting protrusion 510.

[0130] For example, the mounting protrusion 510 may be integrally formed with a body 520 defining the outer appearance of the compressor 500. The mounting protrusion 510 may be disposed at the bottom of the compressor 500. Accordingly, the mounting protrusion 510 may be disposed at a position adjacent to the mounting portion 40.

[0131] The mounting protrusion 510 may be mounted into the depression 720 of the fixing member 700. That is, the fixing member 700 may be fitted into the hole formed in the mounting protrusion 510.

[0132] The fixing member 700 may be made of a material capable of good elastic deformation. Accordingly, the mounting protrusion 510 may be mounted into the depression of the fixing member 700 in a forced fitting manner. Accordingly, the mounting protrusion 510 may be mounted onto the fixing member 700 without a separate coupling tool, and may be detached from the fixing member 700.

[0133] The plurality of depressions 720 of the fixing member 700 may be provided. The depressions 720 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the up-down direction of the dishwasher. Accordingly, the mounting protrusion 510 of the compressor 500 may be fitted into a selected one of the depressions 720 such that a vertical level in the up-down direction of a top surface of the compressor 500 is adjusted. In this way, the compressor may be fixed to the mounting portion 40

[0134] At least three coupling protrusions 40-1 may be provided. The coupling protrusions 40-1 may be spaced apart from each other and be arranged radially. In this regard, the mounting protrusion 510 may be provided in a shape corresponding to the number corresponding to the plurality of coupling protrusions 40-1.

[0135] When the number of coupling protrusions 40-1 is two or smaller, the compressor 500 may be tilted in a specific orientation during the operation of the compressor 500. In an embodiment, three or more coupling protrusions 40-1 may be provided, and may be radially arranged.

[0136] Due to this structure, even when the vibration is generated under the operation of the compressor 500, the compressor 500 may be stably supported by three or more support points.

[0137] In an embodiment, as in the structure as described above, the mounting protrusion 510 of the compressor 500 may be stably and conveniently mounted into the depression 720 of the fixing member 700 or may be removed from the depression 720.

[0138] Due to this structure, the compressor 500 may be supported and fixed to the mounting portion 40 via the fixing member 700 and thus may stably operate in the dishwasher.

[0139] The mounting portion 40 may comprise a blocking wall 40-2 extending so as to surround the plurality of coupling protrusions 40-1. The blocking wall 40-2 may protrude upwardly from the upper surface of the mounting portion 40.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 4, the blocking wall 40-2 may be formed to surround the plurality of coupling protrusions 40-1 while being disposed outside the coupling protrusions 40-1. For example, when the three coupling protrusions 40-1 are provided, the blocking wall 40-2 may be provided in a substantially triangular shape.

[0141] The blocking wall 40-2 may prevent the washing water from reaching the compressor 500. Since the mounting portion 40 is disposed under the tub 12 and the sump 100, the washing water falling down from the tub 12 or the sump 100 may be accumulated on the upper surface of the mounting portion 40.

[0142] When the washing water accumulated on the upper surface of the mounting portion 40 is close to the compressor 500, the washing water may be introduced into the compressor 500. This may adversely affect the compressor 500.

[0143] Accordingly, the blocking wall 40-2 protruding upwardly from the upper surface of the mounting portion 40 may prevent the washing water from reaching the compressor 500. Accordingly, the blocking wall 40-2 may protect the compressor 500 from the washing water.

[0144] The dishwasher may comprise a waste heat recovery pipe 501 extending so as to be wound a plurality of times around the outer circumferential surface of the compressor 500. The refrigerant may flow through the waste heat recovery pipe 501. The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may absorb the heat generated in the compressor 500.

[0145] In order to increase the heat exchange efficiency between the compressor 500 and the waste heat recovery pipe 501, the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be disposed to at least partially contact the outer surface of the compressor 500.

[0146] The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be constructed to connect the compressor 500 to the evaporator 600 in which the refrigerant evaporate as the refrigerant flows therein. The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be disposed between an outlet of the evaporator 600 and an inlet of the compressor 500.

[0147] Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 may be introduced into the compressor 500 through the waste heat recovery pipe 501. The low-temperature refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 may be preheated by the heat generated from the compressor 500 while flowing through the waste heat recovery pipe 501 and then the preheated refrigerant may be introduced into the compressor 500.

[0148] Accordingly, the refrigerant is preheated in the waste heat recovery pipe 501 and introduced into the compressor 500, such that the compressor 500 may perform less work such that the refrigerant reaches set outlet pressure and outlet temperature of the refrigerant. Therefore, the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may effectively increase the energy efficiency of the compressor 500.

[0149] The compressor 500 may also be cooled by the waste heat recovery pipe 501. Accordingly, overheating of the compressor 500 may be effectively suppressed.

[0150] When the compressor 500 is overheated, the operation of the compressor 500 is stopped to protect the compressor 500. In an embodiment, the compressor 500 is cooled by the waste heat recovery pipe 501 to suppress the overheating thereof, such that the operation interruption of the compressor 500 due to overheating of the compressor 500 may be eliminated or the number of times of operation interruption of the compressor 500 may be significantly reduced.

[0151] The body 520 defining the outer shape of the compressor 500 may be made of a metal material. In addition, the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may also be made of a metal material having high thermal conductivity, for example, a metal material including copper, aluminum, or the like, in order to increase heat exchange efficiency.

[0152] FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating a portion of the mounting portion 40 where the compressor 500 is disposed.

[0153] The compressor 500 may comprise the body 520 that compresses the refrigerant. The body 520 may define an outer shape of the compressor 500.

[0154] The compressor 500 may comprise a gas-liquid separator 530 communicating with an inlet of the body 520. The gas-liquid separator 530 may separate the liquid and the gas contained in the refrigerant from each other.

[0155] The refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 may flow through the gas-liquid separator 530 and then be introduced into the compressor 500. The gas-liquid separator 530 may remove the liquid contained in the refrigerant, that is, the liquid refrigerant. Accordingly, a phenomenon that the liquid refrigerant is introduced into the compressor 500 to impact the rotating component of the compressor 500, thereby causing damage to this component may be effectively suppressed.

[0156] In one example, the gas-liquid separator 530 may remove not only the liquid refrigerant but also the liquid oil contained in the refrigerant.

[0157] The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be constructed to communicate with the gas-liquid separator 530. Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 may sequentially flow through the waste heat recovery pipe 501, the gas-liquid separator 530, and the compressor 500.

[0158] Accordingly, the liquid refrigerant or liquid oil remaining in the refrigerant preheated through the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be removed from the gas-liquid separator 530. Thus, the liquid refrigerant or liquid oil may be prevented from flowing into the compressor 500.

[0159] This structure can effectively prevent the compressor 500 from being damaged by the liquid refrigerant or liquid oil.

[0160] The body 520 may be formed in a cylindrical shape and may be oriented such that the longitudinal direction thereof is parallel to the up-down direction. The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be constructed to be wound around the body 520 a plurality of times.

[0161] As the number of windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 increases, the effect of preheating the refrigerant may be improved. However, as the number of windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 increases, the flow resistance of the refrigerant may increase. Accordingly, power consumption of the compressor 500 for forcibly circulating the refrigerant may increase.

[0162] In view of these points, the number of windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 around the body 520 may be appropriately selected.

[0163] Since the waste heat recovery pipe 501 is wound around the body 520 of the compressor 500, vibrations generated from the compressor 500 may be propagated to the waste heat recovery pipe 501. Accordingly, the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may vibrate.

[0164] When the waste heat recovery pipe 501 vibrates, the flow of the refrigerant flowing through the waste heat recovery pipe 501 becomes unstable. This may reduce the performance of the heat pump system.

[0165] Moreover, when the waste heat recovery pipe 501 vibrates, a position of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 wound around the body 502 multiple times may be changed. In this case, the heat recovery efficiency in the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be deteriorated. It is necessary to cope with this situation. Accordingly, in an embodiment, a vibration absorption portion 502 may be provided so as to cope with the above situation.

[0166] The dishwasher may comprise the vibration absorption portion 502 disposed outside the body 520. The vibration absorption portion 502 may be coupled to the body 520. The vibration absorption portion 502 may be formed so that the waste heat recovery pipe 501 passes therethrough.

[0167] The vibration absorption portion 502 may be made of a vibration absorption material. For example, the vibration absorption portion 502 may be made of a material including rubber, silicon, or the like having excellent vibration absorption properties.

[0168] The vibration absorption portion 502 may absorb the vibrations of the body 520 of the compressor 500 and the waste heat recovery pipe 501, thereby effectively suppressing the vibrations thereof and noise generation caused thereby.

[0169] The vibration absorption portion 502 may be attached to a surface of the body 520 of the compressor 500, for example, by means of an adhesive.

[0170] The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be wound multiple times around the body 520. The windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the up-down direction.

[0171] Each of the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be disposed to pass through the vibration absorption portion 502. Accordingly, a separation spacing between the windings may be maintained.

[0172] Accordingly, the vibration absorption portion 502 may allow the up-down separation distance between the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 to be maintained.

[0173] When the spacing between the windings is changed and becomes irregular due to the vibration of the compressor 500, a total contact area between the body 520 and the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be reduced. As a result, the heat exchange efficiency between the body 520 and the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be lower than the design value.

[0174] In an embodiment, the vibration absorption portion 502 may be constructed to allow the up-down spacing between the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 to be maintained. Accordingly, the phenomenon that the separation spacing between the windings is changed and becomes irregular, and thus the heat exchange efficiency between the body 520 and the waste heat recovery pipe 501 is deteriorated may be effectively prevented.

[0175] The present disclosure has been described above with reference to the drawings illustrated in the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure is not limited by the embodiments and drawings disclosed in the present disclosure, and it is obvious that various modifications may be made thereto by a person skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of the present disclosure. In addition, even when the effects according to the configuration of the present disclosure are not explicitly described and set forth while describing the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is obvious that the predictable effects therefrom should also be recognized.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0056]The above-mentioned purposes, features, and advantages will be described in detail later with reference to the attached drawings, so that those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs may easily practice the technical ideas of the present disclosure. In describing the present disclosure, when it is determined that a detailed description of the publicly known technology related to the present disclosure may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the drawings, identical reference numerals are used to indicate identical or similar components.

[0057]Although first, second, and the like are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by such terms. Such terms are only used to distinguish one component from ...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and benefit of Korean Patent Applications No. 10-2025-0024363 filed on February 25, 2025, 10-2025-0032609 filed on March 13, 2025, 10-2025-0042750 filed on April 2, 2025, and 10-2025-0091201 filed on July 7, 2025 which are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.BACKGROUNDField

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher, and more particularly, to a dishwasher equipped with a heat pump system for heating washing water.Description of Related Art

[0003] Content described in this section merely provides background information on the present disclosure and does not constitute the prior art.

[0004] A dishwasher is an apparatus that uses detergent and washing water to wash food residues such as food scraps on dishes or cookware.

[0005] A general dishwasher comprises a tub providing a washing space, a rack provided in the tub and accommodating therein dishes, a spray arm spraying the washing water to the rack, a sump storing therein the washing water, and a pump supplying the washing water stored in the sump to the spray arm.

[0006] A temperature of the washing water used in the dishwasher may be room temperature. However, washing efficiency may be improved and a washing time may be reduced by using high-temperature washing water. Accordingly, washing or rinsing of the dishes may be performed using the high-temperature washing water in at least a portion of an operation process of the dishwasher.

[0007] A heating device for heating the washing water may be provided as, for example, an electric heater, a heat pump system, or the like.

[0008] Since the heat pump system has higher energy efficiency compared to the electric heater, a case in which a washing water heating scheme using the heat pump system is introduced into the dishwasher is increasing recently.

[0009] The heat pump system may be provided with a compressor that compresses refrigerant to form a gas in a high temperature and high pressure state. Among the components constituting the heat pump system, the compressor may operate most dynamically.

[0010] Accordingly, there is a need for a structure which the compressor is supported on and fixed to so as to operate stably in the dishwasher.

[0011] In addition, in the compressor, a rotating part such as a scroll or a blade may rotate at high speed. Accordingly, vibration and noise due to vibration may be generated in the compressor.

[0012] The vibration can adversely affect the compressor and other components in the dishwasher. In addition, the noise generated by the vibration of the compressor may cause inconvenience to the user.

[0013] Accordingly, there is a need for a structure capable of reducing the vibration and the noise generated by the compressor.

[0014] Meanwhile, as the compressor operates, the high-temperature heat may be generated in the compressor. Such high-temperature heat is released to the outside and can become useless waste heat. Therefore, in order to increase the energy efficiency of the heat pump system, a structure capable of recovering such waste heat is required.SUMMARY

[0015] A technical purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a structure which a compressor is supported on and fixed to so as to operate stably in the dishwasher.

[0016] Another technical purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a structure capable of effectively reducing vibration and noise generated by a compressor.

[0017] Still another technical purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a structure capable of recovering high temperature waste heat generated from a compressor.

[0018] Purposes according to the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned purpose. Other purposes and advantages according to the present disclosure that are not mentioned may be understood based on following descriptions, and may be more clearly understood based on embodiments according to the present disclosure. Further, it will be easily understood that the purposes and advantages according to the present disclosure may be realized using means shown in the claims or combinations thereof.

[0019] The dishwasher according to an embodiment may comprise a tub in which dishes are accommodated.

[0020] The dishwasher may comprise a mounting portion disposed under the tub.

[0021] The dishwasher may comprise a compressor mounted on the mounting portion. The compressor may compress the refrigerant.

[0022] The dishwasher may comprise a sump mounted on the mounting portion. Wash water may be stored in the sump.

[0023] The dishwasher may comprise a washing pump mounted on the mounting portion. The washing pump may transfer washing water.

[0024] The dishwasher may comprise a fixing member that is coupled to the mounting portion. The compressor may be coupled to the fixing member.

[0025] The mounting portion may comprise a coupling protrusion protruding upwardly from an upper surface of the mounting portion. The fixing member may be coupled to the coupling protrusion.

[0026] The fixing member may comprise protrusions and depressions formed thereon and therein and arranged alternately with each other in an up-down direction of the dishwasher.

[0027] Correspondingly, the compressor may comprise a mounting protrusion disposed at a lower end and protruding in a lateral direction thereof. The mounting protrusion may have a hole defined therein into which the fixing member is inserted,

[0028] The mounting protrusion may be mounted in one of the depressions of the fixing member.

[0029] The coupling protrusion may include at least three coupling protrusions, wherein the coupling protrusions may be radially arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other.

[0030] The mounting portion may comprise a blocking wall extending so as to surround the plurality of coupling protrusions. The blocking wall may protrude upwardly from the upper surface of the mounting portion.

[0031] The dishwasher may comprise a waste heat recovery pipe extending so as to be wound multiple times on an outer circumferential surface of the compressor. The refrigerant may flow in the waste heat recovery pipe. The waste heat recovery pipe may absorb heat generated from the compressor.

[0032] The dishwasher may further comprise an evaporator, wherein while the refrigerant flows in the evaporator, the refrigerant evaporates. The waste heat recovery pipe may be constructed to connect the compressor and the evaporator to each other. The waste heat recovery pipe may extend between a refrigerant outlet of the evaporator and a refrigerant inlet of the compressor.

[0033] The compressor may comprise a body that compresses the refrigerant. The body may define an outer shape of the compressor.

[0034] The compressor may further comprise a gas-liquid separator communicating with a refrigerant inlet of the body and configured to separate liquid and gas contained in the refrigerant from each other.

[0035] The waste heat recovery pipe may be constructed to communicate with the gas-liquid separator.

[0036] The body may be formed in a cylindrical shape and oriented so that a longitudinal direction of the body is parallel to an up-down direction of the dishwasher. The waste heat recovery pipe may be constructed to be wound around the body a plurality of times.

[0037] The dishwasher may further comprise a vibration absorption portion disposed outside the body and coupled to the body, wherein the vibration absorption portion may be made of a vibration absorbing material, wherein the waste heat recovery pipe may pass through the vibration absorption portion.

[0038] The waste heat recovery pipe may have a plurality of winding wound around the body, and the windings may be spaced apart from each other in the up-down direction. Each of the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe may be disposed to pass through the vibration absorption portion such that a spacing between adjacent ones of the windings is maintained to be constant.

[0039] In the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the compressor may be coupled to the mounting portion via the fixing member made of the vibration absorbing material.

[0040] Due to this structure, a substantial portion of the vibration generated from the compressor as the compressor operates may be absorbed by the fixed member. Therefore, the amount of the vibration propagated to the mounting portion may be very small.

[0041] Accordingly, the vibration generated from the compressor may be prevented from being propagated to the mounting portion, and thus the impact applied to other components provided in the mounting portion due to the vibration may be effectively suppressed.

[0042] In addition, the phenomenon that all the components disposed on the mounting portion vibrate, thereby causing the noise may be effectively suppressed. Such noise is suppressed, such that convenience may be provided to the user.

[0043] [Moreover, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the mounting protrusion of the compressor may be stably and conveniently mounted into the depression of the fixing member or may be removed from the depression.

[0044] Due to this structure, the compressor may be supported onto and fixed to the mounting portion using the fixing member and thus may stably operate in the dishwasher.

[0045] In addition, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the refrigerant is preheated in the waste heat recovery pipe and then introduced into the compressor, so that the compressor can perform less work such that the refrigerant reaches set outlet pressure and outlet temperature of the refrigerant. Therefore, the waste heat recovery pipe may effectively increase the energy efficiency of the compressor.

[0046] The compressor can also be cooled by the waste heat recovery pipe. Accordingly, overheating of the compressor may be effectively suppressed.

[0047] Moreover, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the vibration absorption portion absorbs the vibration of the compressor body and the waste heat recovery pipe, thereby effectively suppressing the vibration of the compressor body and the noise generated therefrom.

[0048] The vibration absorption portion may maintain the up-down spacing between the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe to be constant. Accordingly, the phenomenon that the separation distance or spacing between adjacent ones of the windings is changed to become irregular, and thus the heat exchange efficiency between the body and the waste heat recovery pipe is deteriorated may be effectively prevented.

[0049] In addition to the above-described effects, the specific effects of the present disclosure will be described together while describing specific matters for carrying out the present disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0050] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0051] FIG. 2 is a diagram for illustrating a component disposed in a base in a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state in which a compressor is mounted on a mounting portion.

[0053] FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state in which the compressor is removed from FIG. 3.

[0054] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a fixing member according to an embodiment.

[0055] FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating a portion of the mounting portion on which the compressor is disposed.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS

[0056] The above-mentioned purposes, features, and advantages will be described in detail later with reference to the attached drawings, so that those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs may easily practice the technical ideas of the present disclosure. In describing the present disclosure, when it is determined that a detailed description of the publicly known technology related to the present disclosure may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the drawings, identical reference numerals are used to indicate identical or similar components.

[0057] Although first, second, and the like are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by such terms. Such terms are only used to distinguish one component from another component, and unless specifically stated to the contrary, a first component may also be a second component.

[0058] Throughout the present document, unless otherwise stated, each component may be singular or plural.

[0059] As used herein, singular expressions comprise plural expressions, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In the present application, terms such as “composed of” or “include” should not be construed as necessarily including all of various components or steps described herein, and should be interpreted as being able to not including some of the components or the steps and further including additional components or steps.

[0060] Throughout the present disclosure, "A and / or B" means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise specified, and "C to D" means C inclusive to D inclusive unless otherwise specified.

[0061] As used herein, terms such as "upper”, “lower”, “side", etc. are used to refer to a portion, a direction, and the like of a dishwasher in a state where the dishwasher is generally installed.

[0062] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment. The dishwasher according to an embodiment may comprise a casing 11 defining an outer appearance of the dishwasher, a tub 12 in which dishes to be washed are accommodated, a door 20 provided on a front surface of the tub 12 to open and close the tub 12, and a sump 100 disposed under the tub 12 to store therein washing water.

[0063] The dishwasher may further comprise a plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 provided in the tub 12 and spraying the washing water, a filter 110 provided in the sump 100 and filtering washing water sprayed from at least one of the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 and recovered to the sump 100, a washing pump 150 transferring the washing water stored in the sump 100, and a switching valve 130 controlling selective flow of the washing water transferred under the operation of the washing pump 150 to at least one of the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15.

[0064] The tub 12 may be formed in a hexahedral shape with an open front surface and may have a washing chamber 12a defined therein. A communication hole through which washing water flows into the sump 100 is formed in a bottom 12b of the tub 12. In the washing chamber 12a, a plurality of racks 16 and 17 in which a washing target is accommodated is disposed. The plurality of racks 16 and 17 may comprise a lower rack 16 disposed in a lower area of the washing chamber 12a and an upper rack 17 disposed in an upper area of the washing chamber 12a. The lower rack 16 and the upper rack 17 are disposed to be spaced apart from each other in an up-down direction, and may slide in the frontward direction of the tub 12 and extend from the tub 12.

[0065] The plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 are arranged in the up-down direction. The plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 may comprise a lower spray arm 13 disposed at the lowermost end and spraying the washing water in an upward direction toward the lower rack 16, an upper spray arm 14 disposed on top of the lower spray arm 13 and spraying the washing water upwardly toward the upper rack 17, and a top spray arm 15 disposed at the upper end of the washing chamber 12a and on top of the upper spray arm 14 and spraying the washing water downwardly.

[0066] The plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 are supplied with the washing water from the washing pump 150 through a plurality of spray arm connection flow paths 18, 19, and 21. The plurality of spray arm connection flow paths 18, 19, and 21 may comprise a lower spray arm connection flow path 18 connected to the lower spray arm 13, an upper spray arm connection flow path 19 connected to the upper spray arm 14, and a top spray arm connection flow path 21 connected to the top spray arm 15.

[0067] The lower spray arm 13, the upper spray arm 14, and the top spray arm 15 may be supplied with the washing water from the washing pump 150 through the upper spray arm connection flow path 18, the upper spray arm connection flow path 19, and the top spray arm connection flow path 21, respectively.

[0068] The sump 100 may be disposed under the bottom 12b of the tub 12 and may collect the washing water. The filter 110 may filter contaminants from the washing water flowing from the tub 12 to the sump 100.

[0069] The wash water sprayed through the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 along with the contaminants deposited on and removed from the washing target drops to the bottom 12b of the tub 12. Accordingly, the washing water containing the contaminants may be filtered while flowing through the filter 110 communicating with the bottom 12b of the tub 12 and thus the contaminants-free washing water may be stored in the sump 100.

[0070] During the washing operation, the washing water may wash the dishes accommodated in the racks 16 and 17 while circulating through the sump 100, the spray arms 13, 14, and 15, the tub 12, and the filter 110.

[0071] The washing pump 150 supplies the washing water stored in the sump 100 to at least one of the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15. The washing pump 150 may comprise a washing motor that generates a rotational force, and an impeller that is rotated by the washing motor to transfer the washing water. The washing pump 150 may be connected to the switching valve 130 and a washing water supply flow path 180.

[0072] When the washing pump 150 operates, the washing water stored in the sump 100 may be introduced into the washing pump 150 through a water collection flow path 170 and then transferred to the switching valve 130 through the washing water supply flow path 180.

[0073] The switching valve 130 selectively supplies the washing water transferred under the operation of the washing pump 150 to at least one of the lower spray arm 13, the upper spray arm 14, and the top spray arm 15. The switching valve 130 may selectively connect the washing water supply flow path 180 to at least one of the plurality of spray arm connection flow paths 18, 19, and 21.

[0074] The sump 100 is connected to a water supply flow path 23 through which the washing water supplied from an external water source flows. A water supply valve 22 for controlling flow of the washing water supplied from the external water source may be provided in the water supply flow path 23. The water supply valve 22 may control supply of the washing water from the external water source to the sump 100. When the water supply valve 22 is opened, the washing water supplied from the external water source may be introduced into the sump 100 through the water supply flow path 23.

[0075] The sump 100 may be connected to a drain flow path 24 for draining the washing water to the outside out of the dishwasher. A drain pump 25 for draining the washing water in the sump 100 through the drain flow path 24 may be provided in the drain flow path 24. When the drain pump 25 operates, the washing water stored in the sump 100 may be drained to the outside out of the casing 11 through the drain flow path 24.

[0076] A heating device for heating the washing water may be provided inside the sump 100 or in the washing pump 150. The heating device may be provided as, for example, an electric heater, a heat pump system, or the like.

[0077] In an embodiment, the washing water may be heated using the heat pump system. Hereinafter, the heat pump system will be described first.

[0078] The heat pump system refers to a system that pumps heat from a low temperature environment into a high temperature environment. In this regard, the pumping of the heat may be implemented using, for example, the compressor 500. In an embodiment, the heat pump system may be implemented using a so-called two-phase flow refrigeration cycle that increases the temperature of the refrigerant by compressing the refrigerant flowing in two phases into a gaseous state using a compressor 500.

[0079] The heat pump system for performing the two-phase flow refrigeration cycle may comprise the compressor 500, a condenser 300, an expansion device, and an evaporator 600. These components are connected to each other through pipes. While the refrigerant is flowing and circulating these components, the phase thereof and the temperature thereof change, such that the refrigerant may absorb heat from the surroundings or emit the heat to the surroundings.

[0080] The refrigerant may be introduced into the compressor 500 in a low temperature gaseous state. The refrigerant may be compressed in the compressor 500. From an outlet of the compressor 500, the refrigerant may be introduced into the condenser 300 in a super-heated gas state of the high temperature and high pressure.

[0081] The refrigerant and the washing water may flow separately in the condenser 300. The refrigerant may be introduced into the condenser 300 and exchange the heat with the washing water, and the washing water may be heated upon receiving the heat from the refrigerant.

[0082] The refrigerant may be phase-changed from the superheated gas state to a saturated state in which liquid and gas coexist while the refrigerant is maintained at theoretically the same pressure in the condenser 300.

[0083] The refrigerant flows into the condenser 300 in the superheated state and transfers the heat to the washing water such that the temperature of the refrigerant is lowered. Then, when the refrigerant reaches the saturated state, a proportion of the liquid therein may gradually increase while the refrigerant is maintained theoretically at the same temperature. In this liquefaction process, the refrigerant emits a large amount of latent heat of liquefaction, and the washing water may be heated upon receiving the heat.

[0084] The refrigerant from the condenser 300 may be introduced into the expansion device in the saturated liquid or a super cooled liquid state. Such an expansion device may be provided as, for example, an expansion valve or a capillary device.

[0085] The refrigerant may undergo an adiabatic expansion, i.e., an expansion in which the enthalpy is theoretically constant in the expansion device. In this expansion process, a portion of the refrigerant is vaporized, and accordingly, the pressure of the refrigerant may be lowered. As the portion of the refrigerant is vaporized to dissipate the heat of vaporization to the surroundings, the temperature of the entirety of the refrigerant may be lowered. That is, the refrigerant may be introduced into the evaporator 600 in a state of low temperature and low pressure obtained while flowing through the expansion device.

[0086] When the refrigerant is introduced into the evaporator 600, the proportion of gas in the refrigerant may gradually increase in the evaporator 600 while absorbing the heat from the relatively high temperature surroundings. In the evaporator 600, the proportion of the gas in the refrigerant may gradually increase while the refrigerant is maintained at theoretically the same pressure and the same temperature.

[0087] The refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 may be introduced into the compressor 500 in a state in which a small amount of liquid is present in the refrigerant or the refrigerant is slightly overheated. The refrigerant introduced into the compressor 500 may circulate through the compressor 500, the condenser 300, the expansion device, and the evaporator 600 while repeating the above-described process again.

[0088] Typically, a refrigeration apparatus uses a principle in which the refrigerant absorbs the heat in the evaporator 600. The heat pump system of an embodiment may use the heat released from the refrigerant in the condenser 300.

[0089] In the heat pump system, the heat exchange occurs between the high temperature refrigerant and the relatively low temperature washing water in the condenser 300, and thus the washing water may be heated. The high-temperature washing water heated by the condenser 300 may wash or rinse the dishes more easily than the washing water at room temperature.

[0090] In this regard, such a heat pump system does not always need to operate while the dishwasher is operating the washing or rinsing process. For example, when the washing or rinsing is performed using the washing water at the room temperature, the compressor 500 does not operate, so that the water at the room temperature may be sprayed to the dishes without heating the washing water.

[0091] Even when the compressor 500 is stopped and the washing water is not heated, the washing water may flow through the condenser 300 and circulate throughout the dishwasher.

[0092] In another embodiment, a bypass flow path bypassing the condenser 300 may be defined. Thus, when the compressor 500 is stopped, the washing water may flow along the bypass flow path to bypass the condenser, thereby improving the performance of the condenser 300 and extending its lifespan.

[0093] FIG. 2 is a diagram for illustrating components disposed in a base 30 in the dishwasher according to an embodiment. The components constituting the heat pump system may be disposed, for example, under the tub 12.

[0094] The dishwasher may comprise the base 30 disposed under the tub 12. The heat pump system and other devices for driving the dishwasher may be disposed in the base 30. The base 30 has an inner space defined therein positioned under the tub 12, and the inner space may act as a machine room in which various mechanical components are disposed.

[0095] The dishwasher may comprise a mounting portion 40 on which the condenser 300 is mounted. The mounting portion 40 may be disposed in the base 30. The mounting portion 40 may be disposed under the tub 12.

[0096] The mounting portion 40 may be generally formed in a plate shape. Various components may be coupled to an upper surface of the mounting portion 40.

[0097] The mounting portion 40 may be disposed inside the base 30. The mounting portion 40 may be easily removed from the base 30. For example, the mounting portion 40 may be mounted to the base 30 using a fastening means. The fastening means may be unfastened, and the mounting portion 40 may move in a sliding manner as shown by arrows in FIG. 2 and thus may be removed from the base 30.

[0098] While the mounting portion 40 is guided by a guide rail formed on an inner side surface of the base 30, the mounting portion may slide to extend from the base 30.

[0099] The condenser 300 may be disposed on the mounting portion 40. The refrigerant and the washing water may flow in a separate manner in the condenser 300. The refrigerant may be condensed in the condenser 300. The refrigerant may be condensed to release latent heat of condensation such that the washing water may be heated by the heat released from the refrigerant.

[0100] Although not shown, the expansion valve may be disposed at an appropriate position of the mounting portion 40. Since a size of the expansion valve is smaller than a size of each of the other components constituting the heat pump system, the expansion value may be appropriately disposed on a spare space of the mounting portion 40.

[0101] The dishwasher may comprise a water softener device 41 for producing soft water. The water softener device 41 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40. The soft water is water that contains very little minerals such as calcium and magnesium, or does not contain the minerals such as calcium and magnesium. When washing the dishes using the soft water, the washing efficiency of the dishes may be improved, and the lifespan of the dishes may be increased. Therefore, it is necessary to wash the dishes using the soft water as needed.

[0102] In an embodiment, the washing water may be introduced into the water softener device 41, and the water may be converted into the soft water using the water softener device 41, and then the soft water may be used for dishwashing. However, the water softener device 41 is not an essential component of the dishwasher.

[0103] The water softener device 41 may communicate with the sump 100 through a pipe. Accordingly, the water introduced into the water softener device 41 may be softened by the water softener device 41. The soft water discharged from the water softener device 41 may be introduced into the sump 100 and used for washing the dishes.

[0104] The dishwasher may comprise the sump 100 in which the washing water is stored. The sump 100 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40. The sump 100 may be disposed under the tub 12.

[0105] The washing water stored in the sump 100 may flow under an operation of the washing pump 150 and may wash the dishes accommodated in the tub 12 while circulating through the sump 100, the washing pump 150, the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15, and the tub 12.

[0106] In this regard, the washing water is heated by the heat pump system and sprayed from the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 in a high temperature state to wash or rinse the dishes accommodated in the tub 12, thereby improving washing efficiency.

[0107] In addition, the washing pump 150 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40. In addition, the compressor 500 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40. The compressor 500 may compress the refrigerant. In addition, the evaporator 600 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40.

[0108] As described above, the compressor 500, the condenser 300, the expansion device, and the evaporator 600 constituting the heat pump system communicate with each other through pipes, and the refrigerant may undergo phase change such that the temperature and pressure thereof change while circulating through each of the components constituting the heat pump system.

[0109] Meanwhile, when the washing pump 150 operates, the washing water may sequentially flow through the washing pump 150, the condenser 300, the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15, the tub 12, and the sump 100, and may be introduced into the washing pump 150 again and may circulate the above-described components again.

[0110] The compressor 500 may compress the refrigerant to form a gas in a high temperature and high pressure state. Accordingly, among the components constituting the heat pump system, the compressor 500 may operate most dynamically.

[0111] Accordingly, a structure that is stably supported onto and fixed to the mounting portion 40 so that the compressor 500 operates stably in the dishwasher is required.

[0112] Moreover, a rotating part such as a scroll or a blade of the compressor 500 may rotate at a high speed. Accordingly, vibration and noise due to the vibration may be generated from the compressor 500.

[0113] The vibration may adversely affect the compressor 500 and other components provided in the dishwasher. In addition, noise generated by vibration of the compressor 500 may cause inconvenience to the user.

[0114] Accordingly, there is a need for a fixing structure fixing the compressor 500 to the mounting portion 40 and thus capable of reducing vibration and noise generated by the compressor 500.

[0115] Meanwhile, as the compressor 500 operates, the high temperature heat may be generated from the compressor 500. Such high-temperature heat may be released to the outside and become useless waste heat. Therefore, in order to increase the energy efficiency of the heat pump system, a structure capable of recovering such waste heat is required.

[0116] Hereinafter, this will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0117] FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state in which the compressor 500 is mounted on the mounting portion 40. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view illustrating a state in which the compressor 500 is removed from FIG. 3.

[0118] The compressor 500 of an embodiment may generally have a cylindrical shape and a length thereof may extend in an up-down direction. Accordingly, the compressor 500 may be constructed such that a bottom thereof is coupled to the mounting portion 40.

[0119] The dishwasher may comprise a fixing member 700 coupled to the mounting portion 40. The compressor 500 may be coupled to the fixing member 700. The fixing member 700 may be made of a vibration absorbing material.

[0120] For example, the fixing member 700 may be made of a material including rubber, silicon, or the like having excellent vibration absorption properties.

[0121] Accordingly, the compressor 500 may be coupled to the mounting portion 40 via the fixing member 700 made of the vibration absorbing material.

[0122] Due to this structure, as the compressor 500 operates, a substantial portion of the vibration generated from the compressor 500 may be absorbed by the fixing member 700. Therefore, the amount of such vibration propagated to the mounting portion 40 may be very small.

[0123] Accordingly, the vibration generated from the compressor 500 may be prevented from being propagated to the mounting portion 40, and thus, the impact applied to other components mounted on the mounting portion 40 due to the vibration may be effectively suppressed.

[0124] In addition, a phenomenon that all the components disposed on the mounting portion 40 vibrate to generate the noise may be effectively suppressed. The noise is suppressed, such that convenience may be provided to the user.

[0125] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating the fixing member 700 according to an embodiment.

[0126] The mounting portion 40 may comprise a coupling protrusion 40-1 protruding upwardly from an upper surface of the mounting portion 40. The fixing member 700 may be coupled to the coupling protrusion 40-1.

[0127] A fastening hole may be formed in the coupling protrusion 40-1. A fastening means such as a screw or the like may be coupled to the fastening hole. In one example, a hole may be formed in the fixing member 700. Accordingly, the fastening means may pass through the fixing member 700 and be inserted into the fastening hole. Accordingly, the fixing member 700 may be firmly fixed to the coupling protrusion 40-1 using the fastening means.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 5, protrusions 710 and depressions 720 may be formed on and in the fixing member 700, and may be arranged alternately with each other in the up-down direction. A plurality of protrusions 710 and a plurality of depressions 720 may be provided, and the protrusions 710 and the depressions 720 may be alternately arranged in the up-down direction of the dishwasher.

[0129] Correspondingly, the compressor 500 may comprise a mounting protrusion 510 disposed at the bottom thereof and protruding laterally. A hole into which the fixing member 700 is inserted may be formed in the mounting protrusion 510.

[0130] For example, the mounting protrusion 510 may be integrally formed with a body 520 defining the outer appearance of the compressor 500. The mounting protrusion 510 may be disposed at the bottom of the compressor 500. Accordingly, the mounting protrusion 510 may be disposed at a position adjacent to the mounting portion 40.

[0131] The mounting protrusion 510 may be mounted into the depression 720 of the fixing member 700. That is, the fixing member 700 may be fitted into the hole formed in the mounting protrusion 510.

[0132] The fixing member 700 may be made of a material capable of good elastic deformation. Accordingly, the mounting protrusion 510 may be mounted into the depression of the fixing member 700 in a forced fitting manner. Accordingly, the mounting protrusion 510 may be mounted onto the fixing member 700 without a separate coupling tool, and may be detached from the fixing member 700.

[0133] The plurality of depressions 720 of the fixing member 700 may be provided. The depressions 720 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the up-down direction of the dishwasher. Accordingly, the mounting protrusion 510 of the compressor 500 may be fitted into a selected one of the depressions 720 such that a vertical level in the up-down direction of a top surface of the compressor 500 is adjusted. In this way, the compressor may be fixed to the mounting portion 40

[0134] At least three coupling protrusions 40-1 may be provided. The coupling protrusions 40-1 may be spaced apart from each other and be arranged radially. In this regard, the mounting protrusion 510 may be provided in a shape corresponding to the number corresponding to the plurality of coupling protrusions 40-1.

[0135] When the number of coupling protrusions 40-1 is two or smaller, the compressor 500 may be tilted in a specific orientation during the operation of the compressor 500. In an embodiment, three or more coupling protrusions 40-1 may be provided, and may be radially arranged.

[0136] Due to this structure, even when the vibration is generated under the operation of the compressor 500, the compressor 500 may be stably supported by three or more support points.

[0137] In an embodiment, as in the structure as described above, the mounting protrusion 510 of the compressor 500 may be stably and conveniently mounted into the depression 720 of the fixing member 700 or may be removed from the depression 720.

[0138] Due to this structure, the compressor 500 may be supported and fixed to the mounting portion 40 via the fixing member 700 and thus may stably operate in the dishwasher.

[0139] The mounting portion 40 may comprise a blocking wall 40-2 extending so as to surround the plurality of coupling protrusions 40-1. The blocking wall 40-2 may protrude upwardly from the upper surface of the mounting portion 40.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 4, the blocking wall 40-2 may be formed to surround the plurality of coupling protrusions 40-1 while being disposed outside the coupling protrusions 40-1. For example, when the three coupling protrusions 40-1 are provided, the blocking wall 40-2 may be provided in a substantially triangular shape.

[0141] The blocking wall 40-2 may prevent the washing water from reaching the compressor 500. Since the mounting portion 40 is disposed under the tub 12 and the sump 100, the washing water falling down from the tub 12 or the sump 100 may be accumulated on the upper surface of the mounting portion 40.

[0142] When the washing water accumulated on the upper surface of the mounting portion 40 is close to the compressor 500, the washing water may be introduced into the compressor 500. This may adversely affect the compressor 500.

[0143] Accordingly, the blocking wall 40-2 protruding upwardly from the upper surface of the mounting portion 40 may prevent the washing water from reaching the compressor 500. Accordingly, the blocking wall 40-2 may protect the compressor 500 from the washing water.

[0144] The dishwasher may comprise a waste heat recovery pipe 501 extending so as to be wound a plurality of times around the outer circumferential surface of the compressor 500. The refrigerant may flow through the waste heat recovery pipe 501. The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may absorb the heat generated in the compressor 500.

[0145] In order to increase the heat exchange efficiency between the compressor 500 and the waste heat recovery pipe 501, the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be disposed to at least partially contact the outer surface of the compressor 500.

[0146] The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be constructed to connect the compressor 500 to the evaporator 600 in which the refrigerant evaporate as the refrigerant flows therein. The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be disposed between an outlet of the evaporator 600 and an inlet of the compressor 500.

[0147] Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 may be introduced into the compressor 500 through the waste heat recovery pipe 501. The low-temperature refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 may be preheated by the heat generated from the compressor 500 while flowing through the waste heat recovery pipe 501 and then the preheated refrigerant may be introduced into the compressor 500.

[0148] Accordingly, the refrigerant is preheated in the waste heat recovery pipe 501 and introduced into the compressor 500, such that the compressor 500 may perform less work such that the refrigerant reaches set outlet pressure and outlet temperature of the refrigerant. Therefore, the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may effectively increase the energy efficiency of the compressor 500.

[0149] The compressor 500 may also be cooled by the waste heat recovery pipe 501. Accordingly, overheating of the compressor 500 may be effectively suppressed.

[0150] When the compressor 500 is overheated, the operation of the compressor 500 is stopped to protect the compressor 500. In an embodiment, the compressor 500 is cooled by the waste heat recovery pipe 501 to suppress the overheating thereof, such that the operation interruption of the compressor 500 due to overheating of the compressor 500 may be eliminated or the number of times of operation interruption of the compressor 500 may be significantly reduced.

[0151] The body 520 defining the outer shape of the compressor 500 may be made of a metal material. In addition, the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may also be made of a metal material having high thermal conductivity, for example, a metal material including copper, aluminum, or the like, in order to increase heat exchange efficiency.

[0152] FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating a portion of the mounting portion 40 where the compressor 500 is disposed.

[0153] The compressor 500 may comprise the body 520 that compresses the refrigerant. The body 520 may define an outer shape of the compressor 500.

[0154] The compressor 500 may comprise a gas-liquid separator 530 communicating with an inlet of the body 520. The gas-liquid separator 530 may separate the liquid and the gas contained in the refrigerant from each other.

[0155] The refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 may flow through the gas-liquid separator 530 and then be introduced into the compressor 500. The gas-liquid separator 530 may remove the liquid contained in the refrigerant, that is, the liquid refrigerant. Accordingly, a phenomenon that the liquid refrigerant is introduced into the compressor 500 to impact the rotating component of the compressor 500, thereby causing damage to this component may be effectively suppressed.

[0156] In one example, the gas-liquid separator 530 may remove not only the liquid refrigerant but also the liquid oil contained in the refrigerant.

[0157] The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be constructed to communicate with the gas-liquid separator 530. Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 may sequentially flow through the waste heat recovery pipe 501, the gas-liquid separator 530, and the compressor 500.

[0158] Accordingly, the liquid refrigerant or liquid oil remaining in the refrigerant preheated through the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be removed from the gas-liquid separator 530. Thus, the liquid refrigerant or liquid oil may be prevented from flowing into the compressor 500.

[0159] This structure can effectively prevent the compressor 500 from being damaged by the liquid refrigerant or liquid oil.

[0160] The body 520 may be formed in a cylindrical shape and may be oriented such that the longitudinal direction thereof is parallel to the up-down direction. The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be constructed to be wound around the body 520 a plurality of times.

[0161] As the number of windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 increases, the effect of preheating the refrigerant may be improved. However, as the number of windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 increases, the flow resistance of the refrigerant may increase. Accordingly, power consumption of the compressor 500 for forcibly circulating the refrigerant may increase.

[0162] In view of these points, the number of windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 around the body 520 may be appropriately selected.

[0163] Since the waste heat recovery pipe 501 is wound around the body 520 of the compressor 500, vibrations generated from the compressor 500 may be propagated to the waste heat recovery pipe 501. Accordingly, the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may vibrate.

[0164] When the waste heat recovery pipe 501 vibrates, the flow of the refrigerant flowing through the waste heat recovery pipe 501 becomes unstable. This may reduce the performance of the heat pump system.

[0165] Moreover, when the waste heat recovery pipe 501 vibrates, a position of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 wound around the body 502 multiple times may be changed. In this case, the heat recovery efficiency in the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be deteriorated. It is necessary to cope with this situation. Accordingly, in an embodiment, a vibration absorption portion 502 may be provided so as to cope with the above situation.

[0166] The dishwasher may comprise the vibration absorption portion 502 disposed outside the body 520. The vibration absorption portion 502 may be coupled to the body 520. The vibration absorption portion 502 may be formed so that the waste heat recovery pipe 501 passes therethrough.

[0167] The vibration absorption portion 502 may be made of a vibration absorption material. For example, the vibration absorption portion 502 may be made of a material including rubber, silicon, or the like having excellent vibration absorption properties.

[0168] The vibration absorption portion 502 may absorb the vibrations of the body 520 of the compressor 500 and the waste heat recovery pipe 501, thereby effectively suppressing the vibrations thereof and noise generation caused thereby.

[0169] The vibration absorption portion 502 may be attached to a surface of the body 520 of the compressor 500, for example, by means of an adhesive.

[0170] The waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be wound multiple times around the body 520. The windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the up-down direction.

[0171] Each of the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be disposed to pass through the vibration absorption portion 502. Accordingly, a separation spacing between the windings may be maintained.

[0172] Accordingly, the vibration absorption portion 502 may allow the up-down separation distance between the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 to be maintained.

[0173] When the spacing between the windings is changed and becomes irregular due to the vibration of the compressor 500, a total contact area between the body 520 and the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be reduced. As a result, the heat exchange efficiency between the body 520 and the waste heat recovery pipe 501 may be lower than the design value.

[0174] In an embodiment, the vibration absorption portion 502 may be constructed to allow the up-down spacing between the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe 501 to be maintained. Accordingly, the phenomenon that the separation spacing between the windings is changed and becomes irregular, and thus the heat exchange efficiency between the body 520 and the waste heat recovery pipe 501 is deteriorated may be effectively prevented.

[0175] The present disclosure has been described above with reference to the drawings illustrated in the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure is not limited by the embodiments and drawings disclosed in the present disclosure, and it is obvious that various modifications may be made thereto by a person skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of the present disclosure. In addition, even when the effects according to the configuration of the present disclosure are not explicitly described and set forth while describing the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is obvious that the predictable effects therefrom should also be recognized.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0056]The above-mentioned purposes, features, and advantages will be described in detail later with reference to the attached drawings, so that those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs may easily practice the technical ideas of the present disclosure. In describing the present disclosure, when it is determined that a detailed description of the publicly known technology related to the present disclosure may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the drawings, identical reference numerals are used to indicate identical or similar components.

[0057]Although first, second, and the like are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by such terms. Such terms are only used to distinguish one component from ...

Claims

1. A dishwasher comprising:a tub constructed to accommodate dishes therein;a mounting portion disposed under the tub;a compressor mounted on the mounting portion and configured to compress refrigerant; anda fixing member coupled to the mounting portion, wherein the compressor is coupled to the fixing member, and the fixing member is made of a vibration absorbing material.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the mounting portion comprises a coupling protrusion protruding upwardly from an upper surface of the mounting portion, wherein the fixing member is coupled to the coupling protrusion,wherein the fixing member comprises protrusions and depressions formed thereon and therein and arranged alternately with each other in an up-down direction of the dishwasher.

3. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the compressor comprises a mounting protrusion disposed at a lower end and protruding in a lateral direction thereof, wherein the mounting protrusion has a hole defined therein into which the fixing member is inserted,wherein the mounting protrusion is mounted into one of the depressions of the fixing member.

4. The dishwasher of claim 3, wherein the coupling protrusion includes at least three coupling protrusions,wherein the coupling protrusions are radially arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other.

5. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the coupling protrusion includes a plurality of coupling protrusions,wherein the mounting portion further comprises a blocking wall extending so as to surround the plurality of coupling protrusions, wherein the blocking wall protrudes upwardly from the upper surface of the mounting portion.

6. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the dishwasher further comprises a waste heat recovery pipe extending so as to be wound a plurality of times around an outer circumferential surface of the compressor,wherein the refrigerant flowing in and along the waste heat recovery pipe absorbs heat generated from the compressor.

7. The dishwasher of claim 6, wherein the dishwasher further comprises an evaporator, wherein while the refrigerant flows in the evaporator, the refrigerant evaporates,wherein the waste heat recovery pipe is constructed to connect the compressor and the evaporator to each other.

8. The dishwasher of claim 7, wherein the waste heat recovery pipe extends between a refrigerant outlet of the evaporator and a refrigerant inlet of the compressor.

9. The dishwasher of claim 6, wherein the compressor comprises:a body configured to compress the refrigerant; anda gas-liquid separator communicating with a refrigerant inlet of the body and configured to separate liquid and gas contained in the refrigerant from each other,wherein the waste heat recovery pipe is constructed to communicate with the gas-liquid separator.

10. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the body is formed in a cylindrical shape and oriented so that a longitudinal direction of the body is parallel to an up-down direction of the dishwasher,wherein the waste heat recovery pipe is constructed to be wound around the body a plurality of times.

11. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the dishwasher further comprises a vibration absorption portion disposed outside the body and coupled to the body, wherein the vibration absorption portion is made of a vibration absorbing material, wherein the waste heat recovery pipe passes through the vibration absorption portion.

12. The dishwasher of claim 11, wherein the waste heat recovery pipe has a plurality of winding wound around the body, and the windings are spaced apart from each other in the up-down direction,wherein each of the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe is disposed to pass through the vibration absorption portion such that a spacing between adjacent ones of the windings is maintained to be constant.

13. A dishwasher comprising:a tub constructed to accommodate dishes therein;a mounting portion disposed under the tub;a sump mounted on the mounting portion and constructed to store therein washing water;a washing pump mounted on the mounting portion and configured to transfer the washing water;a compressor mounted on the mounting portion and configured to compress refrigerant; anda fixing member coupled to the mounting portion, wherein the compressor is coupled to the fixing member, and the fixing member is made of a vibration absorbing material.

14. The dishwasher of claim 13, wherein the mounting portion comprises a coupling protrusion protruding upwardly from an upper surface of the mounting portion, wherein the fixing member is coupled to the coupling protrusion,wherein the compressor comprises a mounting protrusion disposed at a lower end and protruding in a lateral direction thereof, wherein the mounting protrusion has a hole defined therein into which the fixing member is inserted.

15. The dishwasher of claim 14, wherein the fixing member comprises protrusions and depressions formed thereon and therein and arranged alternately with each other in an up-down direction of the dishwasher,wherein the mounting protrusion is mounted into one of the depressions of the fixing member.

16. The dishwasher of claim 13, wherein the dishwasher further comprises a waste heat recovery pipe extending so as to be wound a plurality of times around an outer circumferential surface of the compressor,wherein the refrigerant flowing in and along the waste heat recovery pipe absorbs heat generated from the compressor,wherein the dishwasher further comprises an evaporator, wherein while the refrigerant flows in the evaporator, the refrigerant evaporates,wherein the waste heat recovery pipe is constructed to connect the compressor and the evaporator to each other.

17. The dishwasher of claim 16, wherein the compressor comprises:a body configured to compress the refrigerant; anda gas-liquid separator communicating with a refrigerant inlet of the body and configured to separate liquid and gas contained in the refrigerant from each other,wherein the waste heat recovery pipe is constructed to be wound around the body a plurality of times.

18. The dishwasher of claim 17, wherein the dishwasher further comprises a vibration absorption portion disposed outside the body and coupled to the body, wherein the vibration absorption portion is made of a vibration absorbing material, wherein the waste heat recovery pipe passes through the vibration absorption portion,wherein the waste heat recovery pipe has a plurality of winding wound around the body, wherein each of the windings of the waste heat recovery pipe is disposed to pass through the vibration absorption portion such that a spacing between adjacent ones of the windings is maintained to be constant.

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