dishwasher

Abstract

A dishwasher comprises a tub in which dishes are accommodated. The dishwasher comprises a sump disposed under the tub. Washing water is stored in the sump. The dishwasher comprises a filter mounted at the sump. The filter filters the washing water to be collected toward the sump. The dishwasher comprises a condenser disposed under the tub. Washing water and refrigerant flow through the condenser. The condenser comprises a housing that defines an outer shape. The washing water and refrigerant flow separately in the housing. The condenser comprises a first tube received inside the housing. The refrigerant flows through the first tube.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and benefit of Korean Patent Applications No. 10-2025-0024363 filed on Feb. 25, 2025, 10-2025-0032609 filed on Mar. 13, 2025, 10-2025-0042750 filed on Apr. 2, 2025, and 10-2025-0091206 filed on Jul. 7, 2025, which is 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 condenser that heats the washing water by exchanging heat between the high-temperature refrigerant and the relatively low-temperature washing water. The washing water may be heated to a high temperature while flowing through the condenser.

[0010] The refrigerant and the washing water may flow in the condenser in a separated manner from each other and. Accordingly, heat is transferred from the high-temperature refrigerant to the washing water, so that the refrigerant may be condensed while the washing water may be heated.

[0011] In the condenser, the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the washing water may occur. Accordingly, the washing water may be heated by absorbing the heat from the refrigerant.

[0012] Foreign substances such as food waste may be contained in the washing water flowing through the condenser. When the washing water continuously flows through the condenser, the foreign substances contained in the washing water may accumulate inside the condenser.

[0013] These foreign substances may interfere with the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the washing water in the condenser, and may interfere with the flow of the washing water. Therefore, there is a need to develop a dishwasher having a structure capable of suppressing the accumulation of the foreign substances inside the condenser.

[0014] In addition, there is a need to develop a dishwasher having a structure capable of increasing heat exchange performance between the refrigerant and the washing water inside the condenser.SUMMARY

[0015] A technical purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a structure capable of suppressing the accumulation of the foreign substances inside the condenser.

[0016] Another technical purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a condenser having a structure capable of increasing heat exchange performance between refrigerant and washing water.

[0017] 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.

[0018] A dishwasher according to an embodiment may comprise a tub in which dishes are accommodated.

[0019] The dishwasher may comprise a sump disposed under the tub. Washing water may be stored in the sump.

[0020] The dishwasher may comprise a filter mounted at the sump. The filter may filter the washing water to be collected to the sump.

[0021] The dishwasher may comprise a condenser disposed under the tub. Washing water and refrigerant may flow through the condenser.

[0022] The condenser may comprise a housing that defines an outer shape of the condenser. The housing may be constructed such that the washing water and the refrigerant flow separately therein.

[0023] The condenser may comprise a first tube received inside the housing. The refrigerant may flow through the first tube.

[0024] A first distance defined as a distance between the inner side surface of the housing and the outer side surface of the first tube may be sized to be greater than a diameter of each of through-holes which are formed in the filter and through which the washing water flows.

[0025] The first tube may be formed in the form of a spiral coil and be disposed inside the housing.

[0026] In this regard, the first distance defined as the shortest straight distance between the inner side surface of the housing and the outer side surface of the first tube may be sized to be greater than the diameter of each of the through-holes.

[0027] In a shell-coil type condenser, a second distance defined as a shortest straight distance between outer side surfaces of portions adjacent to each other of the coil may be greater than the diameter of each of the through-holes.

[0028] In the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, at least one of the first distance or the second distance may be in a range of 1.5 times to 2.5 times of the diameter of each of the through-holes.

[0029] A washing water flow cross-sectional area of the condenser may be the same as or larger than a washing water flow cross-sectional area of a washing water pipe connecting a washing pump for transferring the washing water to the condenser.

[0030] The condenser of another embodiment may comprise the housing that defines an outer appearance thereof. The housing may be constructed such that the washing water and the refrigerant flow separately therein.

[0031] The condenser may comprise a second tube received inside the housing. Washing water may flow through the second tube.

[0032] The second tube may include a plurality of second tubes, wherein the second tube includes a plurality of second tubes received in the housing and arranged to be spaced from each other in a diameter direction of the housing. Each of the plurality of second tubes is oriented such that a longitudinal direction thereof is parallel to a longitudinal direction of the housing.

[0033] A total water flow cross-sectional area of the plurality of second tubes may be equal to or greater than a water flow cross-sectional area of a washing water pipe connecting a washing pump for transferring the washing water to the second tubes.

[0034] Respective inner circumferential diameters of the second tubes may sequentially decrease as the second tubes are sequentially arranged in a direction from an edge toward a center in the diameter direction of an inner space of the housing.

[0035] An outer circumferential diameter of each of the second tubes may decrease as each second tube extends along a flow direction of the washing water.

[0036] Specifically, the condenser has a washing water inlet area into which the washing water is introduced, and a washing water outlet area from which the washing water is discharged, wherein the outer circumferential diameter of each of the second tubes may decrease as each second tube extends from the washing water inlet area to the washing water outlet area.

[0037] The condenser may comprise: a refrigerant inlet portion protruding outwardly from the housing, wherein the refrigerant is introduced through the refrigerant inlet portion into the housing; and a refrigerant outlet portion protruding outwardly from the housing, wherein the refrigerant from the inside of the housing is discharged through the refrigerant outlet portion.

[0038] The refrigerant inlet portion and the refrigerant outlet portion may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

[0039] The condenser may comprise a refrigerant flow path guide defining a refrigerant flow path. The refrigerant flow path guide may be formed inside the housing.

[0040] The refrigerant flow path guide may block the flow of the refrigerant to change a flow direction of the refrigerant to increase a flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing.

[0041] The condenser may further comprise a fitting socket having one side connected to the housing. A diameter of the one side connected to the housing may be greater than a diameter of the other side of the fitting socket opposite to the one side.

[0042] The fitting socket may comprise a first cell having the one side connected to the housing; and a second cell disposed on the other side of the first cell and spaced from the first cell.

[0043] The fitting socket may further comprise a third cell disposed between the first cell and the second cell. A diameter of the third cell gradually decreases as the third cell extends toward the second cell.

[0044] The refrigerant flow path guide may be disposed at a position spaced apart from each of the refrigerant inlet portion and the refrigerant outlet portion in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

[0045] The refrigerant flow path guide may protrude outwardly from the inner wall surface of the housing. The refrigerant flow path guide may protrude in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the housing.

[0046] In the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, when the maximum diameter of the foreign substances contained in the washing water is larger than the diameter of each of the through-holes, the foreign substances may be filtered by the filter while the washing water flows through the through-holes. Accordingly, the foreign substances contained in the washing water introduced into the condenser through the through-holes may have the maximum diameter smaller than the diameter of each of the through-holes.

[0047] The first distance as the width of the washing water flow space in the condenser may be greater than the maximum diameter of the foreign substances introduced into the condenser. Accordingly, the foreign substances may smoothly flow through the washing water flow space of the size larger than that of the foreign substances and may not be attached to the surface of the housing or the first tube. Accordingly, the foreign substances may be effectively prevented from accumulating in the washing water flow space of the condenser.

[0048] In addition, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, in the coil-tube type condenser, each of the first distance and the second distance may be formed to be greater than the diameter of each of the through-holes. This may effectively suppress the accumulation of foreign substances introduced into the condenser on the surface of the coil or the inner side surface of the housing. Accordingly, the foreign substances may be effectively prevented from accumulating in the washing water flow space of the condenser.

[0049] In addition, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, at least one of the first distance or the second distance may be in a range of 1.5 times to 2.5 times of the diameter of each of the through-holes.

[0050] Due to this structure, the foreign substances can smoothly flow in the washing water flow space of the condenser as a sufficiently larger space than the size of the foreign substances. In addition, the first distance or the second distance is sufficiently large, such that even if the first distance or the second distance is slightly smaller than the design value thereof due to the installation or operation of the condenser, a space sized such that the foreign substances may smoothly pass therethrough may be sufficiently secured.

[0051] This may effectively prevent the foreign substances from accumulating in the washing water flow space of the condenser.

[0052] In addition, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, respective inner circumferential diameters of the second tubes sequentially decrease as the second tubes are sequentially arranged in a direction from an edge toward a center in the diameter direction of an inner space of the housing.

[0053] In this way, the flow speeds of the washing water in all of the plurality of second tubes may be uniform in the diameter direction of the housing. In addition, the diameter of the second tube in the center in the diameter direction of the inner space of the housing is reduced, such that the washing water flow cross-sectional area in the second cell of the fitting socket and the total washing water flow cross-sectional area of the second tubes in the condenser may be similar to each other.

[0054] Due to this structure, heat exchange performance between the refrigerant and washing water in the condenser may be improved.

[0055] In addition, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the outer circumferential diameter of the second tube may be sized to decrease as the second tube extends along the flow direction of the washing water.

[0056] Therefore, the outer circumferential diameter of the second tube increases in the washing water inlet area of the condenser. Thus, the heat exchange area of the second tube may increase accordingly. Accordingly, the amount of heat exchange may increase in the washing water inlet area of the condenser. Accordingly, heat exchange performance in the condenser may be effectively improved.

[0057] In addition to the above-described effects, specific effects of the present disclosure will be described together while describing specific matters for implementing the present disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0058] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0059] FIG. 2 is a diagram for illustrating components disposed in a base in a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0060] FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating a lid of a tub.

[0061] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of a condenser according to an embodiment.

[0062] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 4.

[0063] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of a condenser according to another embodiment.

[0064] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 6.

[0065] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a coil in the condenser illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0066] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of a condenser according to still another embodiment.

[0067] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a condenser according to still yet another embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] Throughout the present document, unless otherwise stated, each component may be singular or plural.

[0071] As used herein, singular expressions comprise plural expressions, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In the present application, terms such as “composed of” or “comprise” 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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 portion 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 arranged 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] The sump 100 may be disposed under the bottom portion 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.

[0081] The washing 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 portion 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 portion 12b of the tub 12 and thus the contaminants-free washing water may be stored in the sump 100.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] A heating device for heating the washing water may be received 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.

[0089] In an embodiment, the washing water may be heated using the heat pump system. Hereinafter, the heat pump system will be described first.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] The condenser 300 may be disposed under the tub 12. The washing water and the refrigerant may flow in the condenser 300.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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 communicate with the condenser 300. The compressor 500 compress the refrigerant.

[0121] In addition, the evaporator 600 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] In FIG. 2, a shell-tube type condenser 300 is shown. However, the condenser 300 may be provided in various shapes and structures other than the shell-tube type condenser. The condenser 300 may be provided in a tube in tube type, a shell-coil type, the shell- tube type, or the like.

[0125] Hereinafter, the structure and features of the condenser 300 in each of the types will be described.

[0126] FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a lid 12c of the tub 12. The lid 12c may constitute a portion of a bottom portion 12b of the tub 12. The lid 12c may separate the tub 12 from the sump 100. The lid 12c may be detachably coupled to the tub 12.

[0127] The lid 12c may be coupled with a filter 110. Thus, removing the lid 12c from the tub 12 may also cause the filter 110 to be removed from the tub 12 together with the lid.

[0128] The lid 12c may serve as a screen filter. A surface of the lid 12c has a mesh structure having smaller gaps than gaps of the mesh of the filter 110, so that the water of the tub 12 may be drained to the sump 100 disposed thereunder, and may serve as a filtering means. However, the mesh surface of the lid is not disclosed in the drawings because the mesh is very fine. This mesh surface of the lid serves only to help the water drainage. The filter 110 performs the role of a substantial filtering means for filtering the washing water circulating in the dishwasher.

[0129] A mesh-shaped communication portion may be formed on top of the filter 110. The washing water sprayed from the tub 12 and used to wash the dishes and dropped onto the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12 may be introduced into the sump 100 through the communication portion. The communication portion may have a plurality of through-holes 111 through which the washing water flows. The plurality of through-holes 111 may be arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other in the column and row directions in the plan view of the communication portion.

[0130] The through-hole 111 may serve to filter the foreign substances accumulated on the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12 so as not to be introduced into the sump 100. However, if the diameter of each of the through-holes 111 is too small, the washing water may not smoothly flow into the sump 100. Accordingly, some of the foreign substances contained in the washing water having a small size may pass through the through-hole 111 and be introduced into the sump 100.

[0131] Since the foreign substances contained in the washing water introduced into the sump 100 circulate through the washing water circulation system, the foreign substances may be introduced into the condenser 300. When such foreign substances accumulate inside the condenser 300, the foreign substances may interfere with the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the washing water in the condenser 300 and may interfere with the flow of the washing water.

[0132] Accordingly, it is necessary to suppress the phenomenon that the such foreign matters are not discharged from the condenser 300 but are accumulated in the condenser 300.

[0133] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of the condenser 300 according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 4. In FIG. 4, a tube in tube type condenser 300 is illustrated.

[0134] The condenser 300 may comprise a housing 310 defining an outer shape of the condenser. The housing 310 may be constructed such that the washing water and the refrigerant flow separately therein. A first tube 320a may be accommodated in the housing 310.

[0135] The housing 310 may be generally formed in a cylindrical shape with an inner space formed therein. The housing 310 may be made of, for example, a solid material having excellent corrosion resistance, such as copper, aluminum, stainless steel, or the like.

[0136] The condenser 300 may comprise the first tube 320a received inside the housing 310. The refrigerant may flow through the first tube 320a. The first tube 320a may be made of, for example, a pipe having a cylindrical cross section and a hollow space.

[0137] In order to increase the heat exchange area between the refrigerant and the washing water, a length of each of the housing 310 and the first tube 320a may be increased. In this case, in order to reduce the volume of the condenser 300, the entire condenser 300 may be bent at an appropriate position so as to have an overall zigzag shape.

[0138] In the condenser 300, the washing water may flow in and along a space between an inner side surface of the housing 310 and an outer side surface of the first tube 320a. The foreign substances contained in the washing water may flow through the washing water flow space.

[0139] The foreign substances may be attached to and deposited on the inner side surface of the housing 310 or the outer side surface of the first tube 320a in the washing water flow space. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent the foreign substances from accumulating thereon.

[0140] Accordingly, in an embodiment, a first distance D1 defined as the shortest linear distance between the inner side surface of the housing 310 and the outer side surface of the first tube 320a, may be greater than a diameter of each of the through-holes 111 formed in the filter 110 and through which the washing water flows.

[0141] When the maximum diameter of the foreign substance is greater than the diameter of each of the through-holes 111, the foreign substance contained in the washing water may be filtered by the filter 110 while the washing water is flowing through the through-holes 111. Accordingly, the foreign substances contained in the washing water introduced into the condenser 300 through the through-hole 111 may have the maximum diameter smaller than the diameter of each of the through-holes 111.

[0142] The first distance D1 as the width of the washing water flow space in the condenser 300 may be greater than the maximum diameter of the foreign substances introduced into the condenser 300. Accordingly, the foreign substances may smoothly flow through the washing water flow space of the size larger than the size of the foreign substances and may not be attached to the surface of the housing 310 or the first tube 320a. For this reason, the foreign substances may be effectively prevented from accumulating in the washing water flow space of the condenser 300.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 1, the filter 110 may further comprise a cup-shaped mesh structure in addition to the structure in which the through-holes 111 are formed in the communication portion. Accordingly, the foreign substances passing through the through-hole 111 are caught again in the cup-shaped mesh structure, and finally, the maximum diameter of the foreign substances having passed through the filter 110 and having flowed into the condenser 300 may be much smaller than the diameter of each of the through-holes 111.

[0144] Thus, when the first distance D1 is greater than the diameter of each of the through-holes 111, the size of the foreign substances introduced into the condenser 300 will be much smaller than the first distance D1. Accordingly, the first distance D1 being sized to be larger than the diameter of each of the through-holes 111 may result in a remarkable effect in suppressing the accumulation of the foreign substances in the condenser 300.

[0145] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of the condenser 300 according to another embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 6. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a coil 321 in the condenser 300 illustrated in FIG. 6. In FIG. 6, the condenser 300 in the form of the shell-coil is illustrated.

[0146] The first tube 320a may be formed in the form of the spiral coil 321 and may be disposed inside the housing 310. The refrigerant may flow in and along the first tube 320a. A washing water flow space through which the washing water flows may be formed between the outer side surface of the first tube 320a and the inner side surface of the housing 310.

[0147] Since the first tube 320a is formed in the form of the spiral coil 321, the volume of the condenser 300 may be reduced as a whole. At the same time, there is an advantage that the heat exchange area of the first tube 320a may be significantly increased compared to the total volume of the condenser 300.

[0148] Even in the shell-coil type condenser 300, the first distance D1 defined as the shortest straight distance between the inner side surface of the housing 310 and the outer side surface of the first tube 320a may be greater than the diameter of each of the through-holes 111. A detailed description thereof is the same as described above.

[0149] In the shell-coil type condenser 300, a second distance D2 defined as the shortest straight distance between the outer side surfaces of portions adjacent to each other of the coil 321 may be greater than the diameter of each of the through-holes 111. In this case, the portions adjacent to each other of the coil 321 means that a single coil 321 is wound in the spiral manner so that a portion of the coil 321 and another portion thereof are disposed to be adjacent to each other.

[0150] In the shell-coil type condenser 300, the foreign substances may also be caught between the portions adjacent to each other of the coil 321. Therefore, as the first distance D1 is greater than the diameter of each of the through-holes 111, the second distance D2 between the portions adjacent to each other of the coil 321 may be greater than the diameter of each of the through-holes 111.

[0151] Accordingly, the foreign substances may smoothly flow along the space between the portions adjacent to each other of the coil 321 formed as the space of the size larger than the size of the foreign substances, and may not be attached to the surface of the coil 321. For this reason, the foreign substances may be effectively prevented from accumulating in the washing water flow space of the condenser 300.

[0152] In the shell-coil type condenser 300, each of the first distance D1 and the second distance D2 may be greater than the diameter of each of the through-holes 111. Accordingly, the foreign substances introduced into the condenser 300 may be effectively prevented from being accumulated on the outer side surface of the coil 321 or the inner side surface of the housing 310. For this reason, the foreign substances may be effectively prevented from accumulating in the washing water flow space of the condenser 300.

[0153] In an embodiment, the condenser 300 may be manufactured to have the first distance D1 and the second distance D2 of the above designed values. However, in the process of installing the condenser 300 into the dishwasher or in the process of using the dishwasher, deformation occurs in the condenser 300, and thus each of the first distance D1 or the second distance D2 may be smaller than the design value thereof.

[0154] In consideration of this size change, the first distance D1 or the second distance D2 may be sufficiently larger than the diameter of each of the through-holes 111 to effectively suppress the accumulation of foreign substances in the washing water flow space of the condenser 300.

[0155] Accordingly, in an embodiment, at least one of the first distance D1 or the second distance D2 may be sized to be in a range of 1.5 to 2.5 times of the diameter of each of the through-holes 111.

[0156] A shape of the through-hole 111 of the filter 110 may be circular, quadrilateral or rhombic. Assuming that the shape of the through-hole 111 of the filter 110 is a square, a size of a diagonal line thereof will be 1.4 times (square root of 2) of a length of one side thereof. Therefore, considering the tolerance, 1.5 times is the minimum value of the range of the ratio between at least one of the first distance D1 or the second distance D2 and the diameter of each of the through-holes 111. Even when the through-hole 111 has a circular shape, 1.5 times is the appropriate minimum value of the range of the ratio between at least one of the first distance D1 or the second distance D2 and the diameter of each of the through-holes 111, in consideration of the fact that the foreign substances having passed through the through-hole 111 swells due to the washing water and increases in volume.

[0157] Due to this structure, the foreign substances may smoothly flow in the washing water flow space of the condenser 300 as sufficiently larger compared to the size of the foreign substances. In addition, the first distance D1 or the second distance D2 is sufficiently large, such that even if the first distance D1 or the second distance D2 is slightly smaller than the design value thereof in the installation or operation of the condenser 300, a space sized such that the foreign substances may smoothly pass therethrough may be sufficiently secured.

[0158] Accordingly, the accumulation of the foreign substances in the washing water flow space of the condenser 300 may be effectively prevented.

[0159] A washing water flow cross-sectional area of the condenser 300 may be equal to or greater than a washing water washing water flow cross-sectional area pipe connecting the washing pump 150 for transferring washing water and the condenser 300 to each other.

[0160] In the condenser 300 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the washing water flow cross-sectional area of the condenser 300 may be, for example, a value, obtained by subtracting a size of a cross-sectional area defined by an outer circumference of the first tube 320a from a size of a cross-sectional area defined by an inner circumference of the housing 310.

[0161] The washing water flow cross-sectional area of the condenser 300 being equal to or larger than the washing water washing water flow cross-sectional area pipe may allow the pressure of the introduced washing water into the condenser 300 to be prevented from increasing inside the condenser 300.

[0162] This may prevent a flow speed of the washing water from increasing inside the condenser 300 due to the increase in pressure. In addition, a time duration for which the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the washing water occurs may be increased. Therefore, the heat exchange performance in the condenser 300 may be effectively improved.

[0163] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a portion of the condenser 300 according to still another embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the condenser 300 according to still another embodiment. In FIG. 9, the shell-tube type condenser 300 is illustrated.

[0164] The arrows in FIGS. 9 and 10 indicate the flow direction of the washing water. Hereinafter, a common structure of the condenser 300 illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 will be described first.

[0165] The condenser 300 may comprise the housing 310 defining the outer shape. The housing 310 may be constructed to allow the washing water and the refrigerant to flow separately therein. A second tube 320b may be accommodated in the housing 310.

[0166] The housing 310 may be generally formed in a cylindrical shape with an inner space formed therein. The housing 310 may be made of, for example, a solid material having excellent corrosion resistance, such as copper, aluminum, stainless steel, or the like, to withstand high-pressure refrigerant.

[0167] A space through which the refrigerant flows may be formed inside the housing 310. As the high-temperature refrigerant flows through this space, the heat may be released from the refrigerant to the outside out of the housing 310. Since such heat release degrades the performance of the condenser 300, a thermal insulating material may be coated on the outer side surface of the housing 310 so as to surround the housing 310 in order to suppress the heat dissipation to the outside.

[0168] The condenser 300 may comprise the second tube 320b received inside the housing 310. The washing water may flow in and along the second tube 320b extending in the length direction of the housing.

[0169] The second tube 320b may include a plurality of second tubes 320b received inside the housing 310 and arranged so as to be spaced from each other in the diameter direction thereof. The second tube 320b may be embodied as, for example, a pipe having a cylindrical cross section and a hollow space.

[0170] The second tubes 320b may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Specifically, the second tubes 320b may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the diameter direction of the housing 310.

[0171] Since the plurality of second tubes 320b are provided, a contact area between the refrigerant and the washing water, that is, the heat exchange area, may be improved. In addition, due to this structure, uniform heat exchange occurs between the flowing refrigerant and the entirety of the washing water, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0172] The condenser 300 may be oriented such that the longitudinal direction thereof as a whole is parallel to the lateral direction of the dishwasher. The inner space of the base 30 in which the condenser 300 is disposed may have a relatively smaller size in the up-down direction of the dishwasher and a relatively larger size in the lateral direction thereof. This structure may save the total volume of the dishwasher.

[0173] In consideration of the structure of the inner space of the base 30, the condenser 300 may be oriented such that the longitudinal direction thereof is parallel to the lateral direction of the dishwasher. Accordingly, the condenser 300 may be efficiently disposed in a relatively narrow inner space of the base 30.

[0174] The condenser 300 may comprise a refrigerant inlet portion 331 through which the refrigerant is introduced into the housing 310. The refrigerant inlet portion 331 may protrude outwardly from the housing 310. The condenser 300 may comprise a refrigerant outlet portion 332 through which the refrigerant is discharged outwardly from the inside of the housing 310. The refrigerant outlet portion 332 may protrude outwardly from the housing 310.

[0175] For example, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, each of the refrigerant inlet portion 331 and the refrigerant outlet portion 332 may be formed in the form of a pipe having a predetermined length protruding in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the housing 310.

[0176] Each of one end of the refrigerant inlet portion 331 and one end of the refrigerant outlet portion 332 may be connected to a refrigerant pipe through which the refrigerant flows.

[0177] The refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be positioned in relation to the flow direction of each of the washing water and the refrigerant.

[0178] For example, when the condenser 300 is embodied as a condenser 300 in which the flow directions of the washing water and the refrigerant are opposite to each other, the refrigerant inlet port 331 may be disposed at a position adjacent to a washing water outlet of the condenser 300, while the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be disposed at a position adjacent to a washing water inlet of the condenser 300.

[0179] In another example, when the condenser 300 is embodied as a condenser 300 in which when the flow directions of the washing water and the refrigerant are the same as each other, the refrigerant inlet port 331 may be disposed at a position adjacent to the washing water inlet of the condenser 300, while the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be disposed at a position adjacent to the washing water outlet of the condenser 300.

[0180] The refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. The refrigerant introduced into the housing 310 does not flow but is stagnant at the corner of the housing 310. Thus, it is necessary to select the positions of the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 such that the refrigerant stagnant area is reduced.

[0181] The condenser 300 may be oriented such that a longitudinal direction of the condenser 300 is parallel to the lateral direction of the dishwasher. Correspondingly, the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the dishwasher.

[0182] The refrigerant introduced into the housing 310 may be stagnant without flowing at the corner of the housing 310. Thus, it is necessary to select the positions of the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 such that the refrigerant stagnant area may be reduced.

[0183] The refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be positioned to be adjacent to both opposing ends in the longitudinal direction of the condenser 300, respectively. This structure may reduce the refrigerant stagnant area in the corner in which the refrigerant does not flow and stagnates inside the housing 310.

[0184] However, the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be provided at positions avoiding a position where a refrigerant flow path guide 340 is disposed for smooth flow of the refrigerant.

[0185] The condenser 300 may comprise the refrigerant flow path guide 340 defining a refrigerant flow path. The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be formed inside the housing 310.

[0186] The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may block the flow of the refrigerant to change the flow path of the refrigerant. Accordingly, a flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the condenser may be increased.

[0187] The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be disposed in the flow path of the refrigerant to block the flow of the refrigerant. The refrigerant may collide with the refrigerant flow path guide 340 and thus the flow path thereof may be changed. Since the refrigerant flows so as to bypass the refrigerant flow path guide 340, the flow length by which the refrigerant flows the housing 310 may be increased.

[0188] In an embodiment, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be received inside the housing 310. The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may block the flow of the refrigerant to change the flow path of the refrigerant. Thus, the flow length by which the refrigerant flows the housing 310 may be increased. As a result, the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the washing water in the condenser 300 may be improved. Accordingly, the performance of each of the heat pump system and the dishwasher having the same may be improved.

[0189] The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be disposed at a position spaced apart from each of the refrigerant inlet portion 331 and the refrigerant outlet portion 332 in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10, when a plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 are provided, the refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be disposed between the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310.

[0190] If the refrigerant flow path guide 340 is disposed at a position overlapping the refrigerant inlet port 331 or the refrigerant outlet port 332, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may prevent the refrigerant from flowing into the housing 310. Alternatively, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may prevent the refrigerant from being discharged from the housing 310.

[0191] In an embodiment, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be disposed in the housing 310 at a position spaced apart from each of the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 in the longitudinal direction of the housing. Accordingly, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may not interfere with the inflow of the refrigerant into the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the outflow of the refrigerant out of the refrigerant outlet port 332. Accordingly, the flow of the refrigerant in the condenser 300 may be smoothly performed.

[0192] The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may protrude inwardly from an inner wall surface of the housing 310. The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may protrude in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the housing 310.

[0193] The refrigerant introduced into the housing 310 may flow in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. The refrigerant may exchange the heat with washing water while flowing in the housing 310.

[0194] The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may protrude to intersect the longitudinal direction of the housing 310 to block the refrigerant flowing in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. Accordingly, the refrigerant may flow so as to bypass the refrigerant flow path guide 340. Accordingly, the flow length by which the refrigerant flows the housing 310 may be increased.

[0195] The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be coupled to the plurality of second tubes 320b to support the second tubes 320b. In addition, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may serve to maintain a spacing between adjacent ones of the plurality of second tubes 320b.

[0196] Referring to FIG. 10, a plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. When the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 are provided, the flow length by which the refrigerant flows the housing 310 may be further increased. Although three refrigerant flow path guides 340 are illustrated in FIG. 10, four or more refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310.

[0197] The refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the housing 310 in the staggered or zigzag manner in the up-down direction or the diameter direction of the housing. Accordingly, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be provided to block a portion of the flow of the refrigerant generated inside the housing 310.

[0198] For example, some of the refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be disposed in an upper portion of the inner space of the housing 310 in the cross-sectional view. The others of the refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be disposed in a lower portion of the inner space of the housing 310 in the cross-sectional view. The neighboring refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be disposed at different positions in the up-down direction in the housing 310. Accordingly, the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310 alternately with each other in the zigzag or staggered manner in the up-down direction or the diameter direction of the housing 310.

[0199] For example, the refrigerant introduced into the housing 310 may flow in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310 and may be blocked by the refrigerant flow path guide 340 disposed in the upper portion of the inner space of the housing 310 in the cross-sectional view. The refrigerant may flow downwards and then flow in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310 again. The refrigerant may again be blocked by the refrigerant flow path guide 340 disposed in the lower portion of the inner space of the housing 310 in the cross-sectional view. The refrigerant may flow upwardly and then flow in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310 again.

[0200] Accordingly, the refrigerant may horizontally flow, then downwardly flow, then horizontally flow, and then upwardly flow, and then horizontally flow inside the housing 310. Accordingly, the flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing 310 may be effectively increased.

[0201] In an embodiment, the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be provided. The plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. The plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310 alternately with each other in a zigzag or staggered manner in the up-down or diameter direction of the housing.

[0202] Due to this structure, the refrigerant in the housing 310 may be blocked by the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 and the flow direction thereof may be changed several times. Accordingly, the flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing 310 may be effectively increased. Accordingly, the heat exchange performance between the refrigerant and the washing water in the condenser 300 may be improved.

[0203] The dishwasher may comprise a fitting socket 400 having one side connected to the housing 310. The fitting socket 400 may be constructed such that a diameter of one side thereof connected to the housing 310 is larger than that of the other side thereof opposite thereto. The fitting socket 400 may be detachably coupled to the housing 310 or the washing water pipe.

[0204] The fitting socket 400 may include a pair of fitting sockets connected to both opposing sides in the longitudinal direction of the condenser 300, respectively. The pair of fitting sockets 400 may have shapes symmetrical with each other around the condenser 300.

[0205] The fitting socket 400 may connect the housing 310 of the condenser 300 having a large diameter to the washing water pipe having a small diameter. The washing water may be introduced from the washing water pipe into the housing 310.

[0206] In addition, the washing water may be discharged from the housing 310 and introduced into the washing water pipe. The fitting socket 400 may connect the housing 310 and the washing water pipe having different diameters to each other.

[0207] The fitting socket 400 may comprise a first cell 410 connected to the condenser 300. The first cell 410 may have a larger diameter than that of a second cell 420. The fitting socket 400 may comprise the second cell 420 disposed on the other side of the first cell 410. The second cell 420 may have a smaller diameter than that of the first cell 410.

[0208] The fitting socket 400 may comprise a third cell 430 disposed between the first cell 410 and the second cell 420. A diameter of the third cell 430 may gradually decrease as the third cell extends toward the second cell 420. The diameter of the third cell 430 may gradually decrease as the third cell extends along the flow direction of the washing water.

[0209] As the washing water flows through the third cell 430, the washing water flow cross-sectional area may gradually increase or decrease due to the structure of the third cell 430. Due to this structure, the flow of the washing water discharged from the condenser 300 may be relatively stabilized compared to a case where the flow cross-sectional area rapidly increases or decreases. Accordingly, the flow resistance of the washing water may be reduced.

[0210] Accordingly, the washing water introduced into the second tube 320 accommodated in the housing 310 of the condenser 300 may gradually increase in the flow cross-sectional area while flowing through the fitting socket 400. Therefore, the washing water may be smoothly introduced into the condenser 300.

[0211] In addition, the washing water discharged from the condenser 300 may gradually decrease in flow cross-sectional area while passing through the fitting socket 400. Accordingly, the washing water may be smoothly discharged from the condenser 300. In addition, the washing water may flow smoothly in a subsequent washing water pipe.

[0212] A total flow cross-sectional area of the plurality of second tubes 320b may be equal to or greater than the washing water flow cross-sectional area pipe connecting the washing pump 150 for transferring washing water and the second tube 320b to each other. The total flow cross-sectional area of the second tubes 320b means the washing water flow cross-sectional area of the condenser 300.

[0213] The washing water flow cross-sectional area of the condenser 300 being equal to or larger than the washing water pipe flow cross-sectional area as described above may prevent the pressure of the introduced washing water from increasing inside the condenser 300.

[0214] This may prevent the flow speed of the washing water from increasing inside the condenser 300 due to an increase in pressure. In addition, the heat exchange time duration for which the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the washing water occurs may be increased. Therefore, heat exchange performance in the condenser 300 may be effectively improved.

[0215] The second tube 320b may be oriented such that the longitudinal direction thereof is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. Accordingly, the washing water introduced into the second tube 320b may be heated while flowing in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310.

[0216] The washing water flow cross-sectional area may increase as the washing water flows in a direction from the second cell 420 as the inlet of the fitting socket 400 to the first cell 410.

[0217] If the total washing water flow cross-sectional area of the plurality of second tubes 320b in the condenser 300 is greater than the washing water flow cross-sectional area in the second cell 420 of the fitting socket 400, the transfer pressure of the washing water may be lowered. Accordingly, the flow of the washing water in the second tube 320b is not smooth, and the flow rates in the second tubes 320b may be non-uniform.

[0218] If the flow rates in the plurality of second tubes 320b become non-uniform, the heat exchange performance in the condenser 300 may deteriorate. Accordingly, it is necessary to make the washing water flow cross-sectional area of the fitting socket 400 to be similar to the total washing water flow cross-sectional area of the second tubes 320b, and to make the flow rates of the washing water in the second tubes 320b uniform.

[0219] The washing water introduced into the fitting socket 400 has a relatively slow flow speed due to friction with the inner wall of the fitting socket 400 in an area adjacent to the inner wall of the fitting socket 400, that is, the edge of the inner space of the fitting socket 400. Meanwhile, the flow speed of the washing water is relatively fast at the center of the inner space of the fitting socket 400.

[0220] Due to this effect, the flow speeds of the washing water in the plurality of second tubes 320b may be distributed such that the flow speed of the washing water in the second tube in the edge in the diameter direction of the inner space of the housing 310 is relatively slow while the flow speed of the washing water in the second tube at the center in the diameter direction of the inner space of the housing 310 is relatively fast.

[0221] Referring to FIG. 9, respective inner circumferential diameters ID of the second tubes 320b may sequentially decrease as the second tubes 320b are sequentially arranged in the direction from the edge toward the center in the diameter direction of the inner space of the housing 310.

[0222] For example, in the arrangement of the plurality of second tubes 320b, the inner circumferential diameter ID2 of the second tube 320b disposed adjacent to the center in the diameter direction of the inner space of the housing 310 may be smaller than the inner circumferential diameter ID1 of the second tube 320b disposed adjacent to the edge in the diameter direction of the inner space of the housing 310.

[0223] Due to this structure, the flow speed of the washing water is fast but the flow cross-sectional area is small in the second tube 320b in the center in the diameter direction of the inner space of the housing 310 having a small inner diameter ID. Conversely, in the second tube 320b in the edge in the diameter direction of the inner space of the housing 310 having a large inner circumferential diameter ID, the flow speed is slow but the flow cross-sectional area is large.

[0224] In this way, the flow speed of the washing water may be uniform throughout the plurality of tubes arranged in the diameter direction of the inner space of the housing 310. In addition, the diameter of the second tube 320b in the center in the diameter direction of the inner space of the housing 310 may be reduced. Accordingly, the washing water flow cross-sectional area in the second cell 420 of the fitting socket 400 may be similar to the total washing water flow cross-sectional area in the second tubes 320b of the condenser 300.

[0225] Due to this structure, the heat exchange performance between the refrigerant and the washing water in the condenser 300 may be improved.

[0226] Meanwhile, the washing water may have a low temperature in a washing water inlet area A1 of the condenser 300 and a high temperature in a washing water outlet area A2 thereof. As the temperature difference between the refrigerant and the washing water increases, the heat exchange efficiency may increase. Therefore, in order to increase the heat exchange performance between the refrigerant and the washing water, it is necessary to increase the heat exchange area between the refrigerant and the washing water in the washing water inlet area A1 of the condenser 300 having the low temperature of the washing water.

[0227] Referring to FIG. 10, an outer circumferential diameter OD of each of the second tubes 320b may decrease as each second tube extends along the flow direction of the washing water. Specifically, the condenser 300 may be constructed such that the outer circumferential diameter OD of the second tube 320b decreases as the second tube extends from the washing water inlet area A1 into which the washing water is introduced to the washing water outlet area A2 from which the washing water is discharged.

[0228] In the condenser 300, the outer circumferential diameter OD1 of the second tube 320b in the washing water inlet area A1 may be greater than the outer circumferential diameter OD2 of the second tube 320b in the washing water outlet area A2.

[0229] The outer circumferential diameter OD of the second tube 320b is large in the washing water inlet area A1 of the condenser 300, such that the heat exchange area of the second tube 320b may increase accordingly in the washing water inlet area A1 of the condenser 300. Accordingly, the amount of heat exchange in the washing water inlet area A1 of the condenser 300 may increase. Accordingly, heat exchange performance in the condenser 300 may be effectively improved.

[0230] However, if the outer circumferential diameter OD of each of the plurality of second tubes 320b is constant in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310, the internal space of the housing 310 through which the refrigerant flows may be significantly reduced. This may reduce the flow rate of the refrigerant. Accordingly, the heat exchange performance of the condenser 300 may deteriorate.

[0231] Accordingly, the outer circumferential diameter OD of the second tube 320b may be relatively reduced in the washing water inlet area A1 of the condenser 300. Accordingly, a sufficient space through which the refrigerant flows may be secured inside the housing 310.

[0232] 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.

Claims

1. A dishwasher comprising:a tub constructed to accommodate therein dishes;a sump disposed under the tub and constructed to store therein washing water;a filter mounted at the sump and constructed to filter the washing water to be collected toward the sump, wherein through-holes through which the washing water flows are formed in the filter; anda condenser disposed under the tub, wherein the washing water and refrigerant flow separately in the condenser,wherein the condenser comprises:a housing defining an outer shape of the condenser and constructed such that the washing water and the refrigerant flow separately therein; anda first tube received inside the housing, wherein the refrigerant flows in the first tube,wherein a first distance defined as a shortest straight line distance between an inner side surface of the housing and an outer side surface of the first tube is sized to be greater than a diameter of each of the through-holes.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the first tube is formed in a form of a spiral coil and is disposed inside the housing,wherein a second distance defined by a shortest straight line distance between outer side surfaces of portions adjacent to each other of the coil is sized to be greater than the diameter of each of the through-holes.

3. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein at least one of the first distance or the second distance is in a range of 1.5 times to 2.5 times of the diameter of each of the through-holes.

4. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein a washing water flow cross-sectional area of the condenser is sized to be equal to or greater than a washing water flow cross-sectional area of a washing water pipe connecting a washing pump for transferring the washing water to the condenser.

5. A dishwasher comprising a condenser through which washing water and refrigerant flow, wherein the condenser comprises:a housing defining an outer shape of the condenser and constructed such that the washing water and the refrigerant flow separately therein; anda second tube received inside the housing, wherein the washing water flows in the second tube,wherein the second tube includes a plurality of second tubes received in the housing and arranged to be spaced from each other in a diameter direction of the housing,wherein each of the plurality of second tubes is oriented such that a longitudinal direction thereof is parallel to a longitudinal direction of the housing,wherein a total water flow cross-sectional area of the plurality of second tubes is equal to or greater than a water flow cross-sectional area of a washing water pipe connecting a washing pump for transferring the washing water to the second tubes.

6. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein respective inner circumferential diameters of the second tubes sequentially decrease as the second tubes are sequentially arranged in a direction from an edge toward a center in the diameter direction of an inner space of the housing.

7. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein an outer circumferential diameter of each of the second tubes decreases as each second tube extends along a flow direction of the washing water.

8. The dishwasher of claim 7, wherein the condenser has a washing water inlet area into which the washing water is introduced, and a washing water outlet area from which the washing water is discharged,wherein the outer circumferential diameter of each of the second tubes decreases as each second tube extends from the washing water inlet area to the washing water outlet area.

9. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein the condenser comprises:a refrigerant inlet portion protruding outwardly from the housing, wherein the refrigerant is introduced through the refrigerant inlet portion into the housing; anda refrigerant outlet portion protruding outwardly from the housing, wherein the refrigerant from the inside of the housing is discharged through the refrigerant outlet portion,wherein the refrigerant inlet portion and the refrigerant outlet portion are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

10. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the condenser comprises a refrigerant flow path guide formed inside the housing to blocking the flow of the refrigerant to change a flow direction of the refrigerant to increase a flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing.

11. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein the condenser further comprises a fitting socket having one side connected to the housing, wherein a diameter of the one side connected to the housing is greater than a diameter of the other side of the fitting socket opposite to the one side.

12. The condenser of claim 11, wherein the fitting socket comprises:a first cell having the one side connected to the housing;a second cell disposed on the other side of the first cell and spaced from the first cell; anda third cell disposed between the first cell and the second cell, wherein a diameter of the third cell gradually decreases as the third cell extends toward the second cell.

13. The dishwasher of claim 10, wherein the refrigerant flow path guide is disposed at a position spaced apart from each of the refrigerant inlet portion and the refrigerant outlet portion in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

14. The dishwasher of claim 13, wherein the refrigerant flow path guide protrudes in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the housing.

15. A dishwasher having a condenser, wherein the condenser comprises:a housing defining an outer shape of the condenser and constructed such that the washing water and the refrigerant flow separately therein; anda second tube received inside the housing, wherein the washing water flows in the second tube,wherein the second tube is oriented such that a longitudinal direction thereof is parallel to a longitudinal direction of the housing,wherein an outer circumferential diameter of the second tube decreases as the second tube extends along a flow direction of the washing water.

16. The dishwasher of claim 15, wherein the condenser has a washing water inlet area into which the washing water is introduced, and a washing water outlet area from which the washing water is discharged,wherein the outer circumferential diameter of the second tube decreases as the second tube extends from the washing water inlet area to the washing water outlet area.

17. The dishwasher of claim 15, wherein the second tube includes a plurality of second tubes received in the housing and arranged to be spaced from each other in a diameter direction of the housing,wherein respective inner circumferential diameters of the second tubes sequentially decrease as the second tubes are sequentially arranged in a direction from an edge toward a center in the diameter direction of an inner space of the housing.

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