Condenser and dishwasher including the same

Abstract

A condenser for condensing refrigerant comprises a housing configured such that washing water and the refrigerant flow therein in a separate manner from each other. The housing defines an outer shape of the condenser. The condenser comprises a plurality of tubes received in the housing and extending in a longitudinal direction of the housing and arranged so as to be spaced from each other in the housing. The washing water flows in and along the plurality of tubes. The condenser comprises a refrigerant flow path guide formed inside the housing so as to define a refrigerant flow path. The refrigerant flow path guide blocks the flow of the refrigerant to change the flow direction to increase a flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing.

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 10-2025-0082382 filed on June 23, 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] In order to increase heat exchange performance between the refrigerant and the washing water, it is necessary to increase a flow length by which the refrigerant flows inside the condenser. Due to this structure, the heat exchange area between the refrigerant and the washing water increases and a time duration for which the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the washing water occurs increases, so that the heat exchange performance may be improved.

[0013] A preferable way to increase the flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the condenser is to increase the entire length of the condenser. However, this scheme has limitations due to spatial constraints inside the base.

[0014] Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure capable of increasing the flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the condenser having a limited length.SUMMARY

[0015] A purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a condenser having a structure with improved heat exchange performance.

[0016] In addition, another purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a condenser including a refrigerant flow path guide configured to increase a flow length by which refrigerant flows in the condenser to improve heat exchange performance.

[0017] In addition, still another purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher including the condenser as described above.

[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] A condenser for condensing refrigerant according to an embodiment may comprise a housing configured such that washing water and the refrigerant flow therein in a separate manner from each other. The housing may define an outer shape of the condenser.

[0020] The condenser may comprise a tube. The tube may include a plurality of tubes received in the housing and extending in a longitudinal direction of the housing, and the plurality of tubes may be arranged so as to be spaced from each other in the housing. The washing water may flow in and along the plurality of tubes.

[0021] The condenser may further comprise a refrigerant inlet port protruding outwardly from the housing. The refrigerant may be introduced through the refrigerant inlet port into the housing. The condenser may further comprise a refrigerant outlet port protruding outwardly from the housing. The refrigerant from an inner space of the housing may be discharged through the refrigerant outlet port out of the housing.

[0022] The refrigerant inlet port and the refrigerant outlet port may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

[0023] The refrigerant outlet port may be formed to extend from a position under the condenser through the housing.

[0024] Each of the refrigerant inlet port and the refrigerant outlet port may communicate with a refrigerant flow path defined between adjacent ones of the plurality of tubes.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] The condenser may further comprise closing portions respectively disposed on both opposing ends of the housing and respectively closing the both opposing ends of the housing. The tubes may extend through the closing portions.

[0029] The condenser may further comprise a refrigerant flow path guide disposed inside the housing and configured to define the refrigerant flow path,

[0030] The refrigerant flow path guide may be configured to block the flow of the refrigerant to change the flow direction of the refrigerant to increase a flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing.

[0031] The refrigerant flow path guide may be disposed at a position spaced apart from each of the refrigerant inlet port and the refrigerant outlet port in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

[0032] The refrigerant flow path guide may protrude inwardly from an inner surface of the housing so as to intersect the longitudinal direction of the housing.

[0033] The refrigerant flow path guide may include a plurality of refrigerant flow path guides arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

[0034] The refrigerant flow path guides may be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the housing in a staggered manner in an up-down direction or a diameter direction of the housing. Thus, the refrigerant flow path guides may block a portion of the refrigerant flow path formed inside the housing.

[0035] The refrigerant flow path guide may comprise a through-hole through which one of the tubes passes. The refrigerant flow path guide may comprise a seating groove into which another of the tubes is seated.

[0036] The refrigerant flow path guide includes a plurality of refrigerant flow path guides. Each of the refrigerant flow path guides may be formed a semicircular shape. The semicircular shape may comprise: a straight portion in which a plurality of seating grooves are formed; and a curved portion connected to the straight portion and defining an outer circumference of the refrigerant flow path guide.

[0037] The plurality of refrigerant flow path guides may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

[0038] Some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides may be disposed in a lower portion of an inner space of the housing. In this regard, each of some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides disposed in the lower portion of the inner space of the housing may be oriented such that a vertical level of the straight portion thereof is higher than a vertical level of the curved portion thereof.

[0039] Each of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides may be oriented such that an extension direction of the straight portion is parallel to an up-down direction of the condenser.

[0040] Each of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides may be disposed at a position spaced apart from a lowermost position of the housing. Each of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides may be oriented such that an extension direction of the straight portion is inclined with respect to an up-down direction of the condenser.

[0041] Each of the refrigerant flow path guides may be formed in an arc shape. In this case, each of some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides may be oriented such that one of two straight portions of an outer peripheral line thereof is parallel to an up-down direction of the condenser.

[0042] A dishwasher according to an embodiment may comprise a tub in which dishes are accommodated. The dishwasher may comprise a mounting portion on which the condenser is mounted. The mounting portion may be disposed under the tub.

[0043] The dishwasher may comprise a compressor mounted on the mounting portion. The compressor may be in communication with the condenser. The compressor may compress the refrigerant.

[0044] In the condenser according to the present disclosure, the refrigerant flow path guide may be disposed inside the housing. The refrigerant flow path guide 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. As a result, heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the washing water in the condenser may be improved. Accordingly, the performance of each of the heat pump system and the dishwasher having the same may be improved.

[0045] In addition, in the condenser according to the present disclosure, the refrigerant flow path guide may be disposed at a position spaced apart from each of the refrigerant inlet port and the refrigerant outlet port in the housing. Accordingly, the refrigerant flow path guide may not interfere with the inflow of the refrigerant at the refrigerant inlet port and the refrigerant outlet port. Accordingly, the flow of the refrigerant in the condenser may be smoothly performed.

[0046] In addition, in the condenser according to the present disclosure, the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides may be provided. The plurality of refrigerant flow path guides may be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing. The plurality of refrigerant flow path guides may be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the housing in the staggered manner in the up-down direction or the diameter direction of the housing.

[0047] Due to this structure, the refrigerant in the housing may be blocked by the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides such that the flow direction may be changed several times. Accordingly, the flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing may be effectively increased. Accordingly, the heat exchange performance between the refrigerant and the washing water in the condenser may be improved.

[0048] In addition, in the condenser according to the present disclosure, each of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides may be oriented such that the extension direction of the straight portion is parallel to the up-down direction of the condenser.

[0049] Due to this structure, a portion of the lower end of the inner space of the housing may be opened without being blocked by the refrigerant flow path guide. Therefore, the liquid refrigerant accumulated on the lower portion of the inner space of the housing by gravity may not be interfered with the refrigerant flow path guide but may smoothly flow to the refrigerant outlet port through the open area. Accordingly, a phenomenon in which the liquid refrigerant remains inside the housing may be effectively suppressed.

[0050] 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

[0051] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 2 is a diagram for illustrating a component disposed in a base in a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0053] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a condenser according to an embodiment.

[0054] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of FIG. 3.

[0055] FIG. 5 is a diagram for illustrating a structure of a condenser according to an embodiment.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a diagram for illustrating a structure of a condenser according to another embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 7 is a diagram for illustrating a structure of a condenser according to still another embodiment.

[0058] FIG. 8 is a diagram for illustrating a structure of a condenser according to still yet another embodiment.

[0059] FIG. 9 is a diagram for illustrating a refrigerant flow path guide according to an embodiment.

[0060] FIG. 10 is a diagram for illustrating a structure in which a refrigerant flow path guide is mounted to a condenser according to an embodiment.

[0061] FIG. 11 is a diagram for illustrating a structure in which a refrigerant flow path guide is mounted to a condenser according to another embodiment.

[0062] FIG. 12 is a diagram for illustrating a structure in which a refrigerant flow path guide is mounted to a condenser according to still another embodiment.

[0063] FIG. 13 is a diagram for illustrating a refrigerant flow path guide according to another embodiment, and a structure in which the refrigerant flow path guide is mounted to a condenser.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] Throughout the present document, unless otherwise stated, each component may be singular or plural.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] In an embodiment, the washing water may be heated using the heat pump system. Hereinafter, the heat pump system will be described first.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] In addition, the evaporator 600 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] In the condenser 300, the heat exchange may occur between the refrigerant and the washing water. Accordingly, the washing water may be heated by absorbing the heat from the refrigerant.

[0121] In order to increase heat exchange performance between the refrigerant and the washing water, it is necessary to increase the flow length by which the refrigerant flow inside the condenser 300. Due to this structure, the heat exchange area between the refrigerant and the washing water increases and a time duration for which the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the washing water occurs increases, so that the heat exchange performance may be improved.

[0122] A preferable way to increase the flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the condenser is to increase the entire length of the condenser 300. However, this scheme has limitations due to spatial constraints inside the base 30.

[0123] Accordingly, there is a need to develop a structure able to increase the flow length by which the refrigerant flow in the condenser 300 of a limited length. Hereinafter, such a structure will be described in detail.

[0124] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the condenser 300 according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of FIG. 3.

[0125] The condenser 300 may comprise a housing 310 in which the washing water and the refrigerant flow separately. The housing 310 may define an outer shape of the condenser 300. A tube 320 may be accommodated in the housing 310.

[0126] The housing 310 may be generally formed in a cylindrical shape having 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 a high-pressure refrigerant.

[0127] The space through which the refrigerant flows may be defined inside the housing 310. The heat may be released to the outside out of the housing 310 as the high-temperature refrigerant flows into this space. Since such heat release to the outside degrades the performance of the condenser 300, a thermal insulating material may be provided on the outer surface of the housing 310 so as to surround the housing 310 in order to suppress the heat release to the outside out of the condenser.

[0128] The condenser 300 may comprise the tube 320. The tube 320 may comprise a plurality of tubes received in the housing 310 and separated from each other. The washing water may flow through the tube 320. The tube 320 may be embodied as, for example, a hollow pipe having a cylindrical cross section.

[0129] The tubes 320 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Specifically, the tubes 320 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the housing 310.

[0130] Since the plurality of tubes 320 are provided, a contact area between the refrigerant and the washing water, that is, the heat exchange area may be increased. In addition, due to this increased heat exchange area, uniform heat exchange may occur between flowing refrigerant and washing water, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency.

[0131] The condenser 300 may be oriented such that a longitudinal direction thereof is parallel to the lateral direction of the dishwasher. An inner space of the base 30 in which the condenser 300 is disposed may have a relatively smaller dimension in an up-down direction of the dishwasher and a relatively greater dimension in the lateral direction thereof. This structure is a structure formed to save a total volume of the dishwasher.

[0132] In consideration of the structure of the internal space of the base 30, the condenser 300 may be oriented such that the longitudinal direction of the condenser is the lateral direction of the dishwasher. Accordingly, the condenser 300 may be efficiently disposed in a relatively narrow inner space of the base 30.

[0133] The condenser 300 may comprise a refrigerant inlet port 331 through which the refrigerant is introduced into the housing 310. The refrigerant inlet port 331 may protrude outwardly from the housing 310. The condenser 300 may comprise a refrigerant outlet port 332 through which the refrigerant is discharged from the inside of the housing 310. The refrigerant outlet port 332 may protrude outwardly from the housing 310.

[0134] For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, each of the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be formed in the form of a pipe having a predetermined length in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the housing 310.

[0135] One end of each of the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be connected to a pipe through which the refrigerant flows.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] A refrigerant flow path may be defined between adjacent tubes 320 of the plurality of tubes 320. Each of the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332

[0141] communicate with the refrigerant flow path. Accordingly, the refrigerant may flow through the refrigerant flow path between the adjacent tubes 320.

[0142] It is necessary to set the diameter of the tube 320 to be as large as possible so that foreign substances such as food debris do not get stuck in the tube 320 when the washing water flows into the tube 320. Accordingly, the tube 320 may be installed to be in contact with an inner wall of the housing 310 or to be as close as possible thereto. Therefore, an area in which the tube 320 is in contact with or close to the inner wall of the housing is narrow, and thus it is difficult for the refrigerant to flow therethrough.

[0143] Therefore, it is appropriate that the refrigerant inlet port 331 or the refrigerant outlet port 332 is positioned so as to communicate with a relatively large space between the tube 320 and the inner wall of the housing. Accordingly, the refrigerant may be smoothly introduced into the housing 310 or discharged from the housing 310.

[0144] The refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may protrude downwardly from a lowermost position of the housing 310 of the condenser 300. Accordingly, when the operator performs a maintenance job on the condenser 300, the operator may open only the front surface of the dishwasher and perform a maintenance job through a gap defined the front surface without extending the mounting portion 40 from the base 30 or disassembling the mounting portion 40.

[0145] 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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] However, the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be provided at positions avoiding a position where the refrigerant flow path guide 340 is disposed for smooth flow of the refrigerant.

[0149] The refrigerant outlet port 332 may be formed to extend through the lowermost portion of the housing 310 of the condenser 300.

[0150] In the drawings of FIG. 3 and drawings subsequent thereto, an arrow G indicates the direction in which gravity acts, that is, the gravity direction G.

[0151] The refrigerant in a gaseous state may be introduced into the condenser 300. The heat may be released therefrom and thus the refrigerant may be liquefied while the refrigerant is flowing through the condenser 300. Accordingly, as the refrigerant approaches the refrigerant outlet port 332, an entirety or a substantial portion of the refrigerant changes into a liquid.

[0152] The liquid can descend under the influence of gravity. If the refrigerant outlet port 332 extends upwardly from the uppermost position of the condenser 300 and thus protrudes in a direction opposite to the gravity direction G, it is difficult for the liquid refrigerant to escape from the condenser 300.

[0153] Accordingly, in an embodiment, the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be formed to extend through the lowermost portion of the housing 310 of the condenser 300 and to protrude downwardly therefrom. Accordingly, the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be oriented such that a longitudinal direction thereof is parallel to the gravity direction G.

[0154] Due to this structure, the liquid refrigerant collecting near the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be smoothly discharged from the condenser 300 through the refrigerant outlet port 332 by gravity. Accordingly, the refrigerant may flow smoothly throughout the condenser 300.

[0155] The dishwasher may comprise a fitting socket 400 having one side connected to the housing 310. The fitting socket 400 may be configured such that a diameter of one side thereof connected to the housing 310 is larger than that of the other side thereof opposite thereto.

[0156] The fitting socket 400 may be detachably coupled to the housing 310 or the washing water pipe.

[0157] 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.

[0158] 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.

[0159] 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.

[0160] 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.

[0161] 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.

[0162] As the washing water flows through the third cell 430, the flow cross-sectional area of the washing water 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.

[0163] Accordingly, the washing water introduced into the 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.

[0164] 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.

[0165] The condenser 300 may comprise closing portions 350 respectively disposed at both opposing ends in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. The closing portions 350 may close both opposing ends of the housing 310, respectively. The tube 320 may extend through the closing portion 350.

[0166] The closing portion 350 may be formed in a substantially disk shape. The closing part 350 may seal the inner space of the housing 310 by blocking both opposing sides of the cylindrical housing 310. The closing portion 350 may be provided as a pair disposed on both opposing sides of the housing 310, respectively.

[0167] Since the high-pressure refrigerant flows in the inner space of the housing 310, the closing portion 350 needs to be firmly coupled to the housing 310. In addition, it is necessary to completely seal between the closing portion 350 and the housing 310.

[0168] Accordingly, the closing portion 350 may be made of the same metal material as that of the housing 310. In addition, the closing portion 350 and the housing310 may be firmly coupled to each other via, for example, brazing welding or the like, so that a space therebetween may be completely sealed.

[0169] A hole through which the tube 320 passes may be formed in the closing portion 350. Since the tube 320 includes the plurality of tubes, the number of the holes defined in the closing portion may correspond to the number of the tubes 320.

[0170] It is necessary to seal a gap between the hole and the tube so that the gap is not formed between the hole and the tube 320. Accordingly, the tube 320 may also be firmly coupled to the closing portion 350 at a point at which the tube passes through the hole via brazing welding. Accordingly, the space between the tube 320 and the closing portion 350 may be completely sealed.

[0171] The condenser 300 may comprise a refrigerant flow path guide 340 defining the refrigerant flow path. The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be formed inside the housing 310.

[0172] The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may have a plate shape. The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may have a circular disk shape.

[0173] The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be embodied as a baffle used in a heat exchanger. That is, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be a thin plate or sheet oriented in a perpendicular manner to the fluid flow direction inside the housing 310.

[0174] 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. 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.

[0175] In addition, the foreign substances such as food waste may remain inside the tube 320. The refrigerant may collide with the refrigerant flow path guide 340 in a perpendicular manner thereto to cause vibration of the tube 320, thereby helping to discharge the foreign substances remaining in the tube 320 out of the tube 320.

[0176] The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be disposed 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 310. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, 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.

[0177] 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.

[0178] 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.

[0179] 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 be disposed to protrude in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the housing 310.

[0180] The refrigerant introduced into the housing 310 may flow in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. The refrigerant may exchange the heat with the washing water while flowing in the housing 310.

[0181] 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 in the housing 310 may be increased.

[0182] Further, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be coupled to the plurality of tubes 320 to support the tubes 320. In addition, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may serve to maintain a spacing between adjacent ones of the plurality of tubes 320.

[0183] Hereinafter, a structure in which the refrigerant flow path guide 340 is disposed in the inner space of the housing 310 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0184] FIG. 5 is a diagram for illustrating a structure of the condenser 300 according to an embodiment. Hereinafter, in FIGS. 5 to 9, the tube 320 is omitted for clear illustration.

[0185] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be positioned so as to be interposed between the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 of the housing 310 in the longitudinal direction of the housing. For example, one refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be provided. In this regard, the refrigerant introduced into the refrigerant inlet port 331 may flow toward the refrigerant outlet port 332, and then, a portion of the refrigerant may be blocked by the refrigerant flow path guide 340.

[0186] The portion of the refrigerant blocked by the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may change in a flow direction and then may continue to flow toward the refrigerant outlet port 332 through a gap between an outer edge of the refrigerant flow path guide 340 and the inner surface of the housing 310.

[0187] Accordingly, a portion of the refrigerant flowing through the housing 310 may be blocked by the refrigerant flow path guide 340 such that the flow direction thereof changes. The refrigerant may flow so as to bypass the refrigerant flow path guide 340. Accordingly, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may increase the flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing 310.

[0188] FIG. 6 is a diagram for illustrating a structure of the condenser 300 according to another embodiment. 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 in the condenser may be further increased.

[0189] However, if the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 are disposed at the same or similar positions in the up-down direction or the diameter direction of the housing 310, only a portion of the refrigerant may have an increased flow length. The refrigerant may continuously flow without changing the flow direction in an area in which the refrigerant flow path guide 340 is not disposed in the up-down direction of the housing 310.

[0190] Accordingly, in order to increase the flow length by which as much refrigerant as possible flows in the condenser, the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310 in a staggered manner in the up-down direction or the diameter direction of the housing.

[0191] As shown in FIG. 6, 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.

[0192] 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

[0193] 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.

[0194] 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.

[0195] 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.

[0196] 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.

[0197] 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.

[0198] FIG. 7 is a diagram for illustrating a structure of the condenser 300 according to still another embodiment. FIG. 7 is a structure in which a larger number of refrigerant flow path guides 340 are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310, compared to the refrigerant flow path guides 340 illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0199] As the number of refrigerant flow path guides 340 disposed in the housing 310 increases, the flow length by which the refrigerant flows may be further increased. However, in this case, the flow resistance of the refrigerant inside the housing 310 may increase, and the manufacturing cost of the condenser 300 may increase. In addition, in this case, the amount of the liquid refrigerant condensed inside the housing 310 may not be discharged to the outside out of the housing 310 such that an amount of the refrigerant remaining in the housing 310 may be increased.

[0200] Therefore, it is necessary to appropriately select the number of refrigerant flow path guides 340 in consideration of the above-described trade-off.

[0201] FIG. 8 is a diagram for illustrating a structure of the condenser 300 according to still yet another embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may extend in a screw-shaped manner in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310.

[0202] The refrigerant may be guided by the screw-shaped refrigerant flow path guide 340 and thus may flow in a screw-shaped manner in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. Accordingly, the flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing 310 may be effectively increased compared to the straight flow of the refrigerant.

[0203] Hereinafter, a specific shape of the refrigerant flow path guide 340 and a mounting structure in which the refrigerant flow path guide 340 is mounted into the condenser 300 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0204] FIG. 9 is a diagram for illustrating the refrigerant flow path guide 340 according to an embodiment. The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may comprise a through-hole 341 through which the tube 320 passes. The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may comprise a seating groove 342 in which another tube 320 is seated.

[0205] The plurality of tubes 320 may be disposed inside the housing 310. Accordingly, some of the plurality of tubes 320 may pass respectively through the through-holes 341, respectively, while some of the plurality of tubes 320 may be seated into the seating grooves 342, respectively. The number of some of the plurality of tubes 320 may correspond to the number of the through-holes 341. The number of some of the plurality of tubes 320 may correspond to the number of the seating grooves 342.

[0206] The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may comprise a straight portion 343 in which the plurality of seating grooves 342 are formed. The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may comprise a curved portion 344 connected to the straight portion 343 and defining an outer circumference thereof. The refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be formed in a semicircular shape.

[0207] 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. As described above, the refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310 in the staggered manner in the up-down direction or the diameter direction of the housing. Accordingly, the flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the condenser may be effectively increased.

[0208] When the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 are disposed in the housing, the refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be respectively positioned at different angular positions in the circumferential direction of the housing 310. Due to this structure, the refrigerant guided by the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may flow in the screw-shaped manner in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. Accordingly, the flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing 310 may be further increased.

[0209] FIG. 10 is a diagram for illustrating a structure in which the refrigerant flow path guide 340 is mounted to the condenser 300 according to an embodiment.

[0210] As illustrated in FIG. 10, some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be disposed in the lower portion of the inner space of the housing 310. In this case, each of the refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be positioned and oriented such that the straight portion 343 extends in the horizontal direction perpendicular to the gravity direction G and the curved portion 344 is disposed under the straight portion 341.

[0211] The others of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be disposed in the upper portion of the inner space of the housing 310. Thus, the plurality of 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 of the housing. Each of some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 disposed in the lower portion of the inner space of the housing 310 and each of the others of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340

[0212] disposed in the upper portion of the inner space of the housing 310 may be formed in a symmetrical manner to each other around the center of the housing 310.

[0213] In this structure, when both the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 extend downwardly from the lowermost portion of the housing 310, the flow direction of the refrigerant in the housing 310 may be effectively guided by the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340.

[0214] However, in this structure, some refrigerant flow path guides 340 block the flow of the refrigerant in the lower portion of the inner space of the housing 310. The refrigerant may be condensed inside the housing 310. The condensed liquid refrigerant may flow in the gravity direction G. Accordingly, the liquid refrigerant may be accumulated on a bottom of the inner space of the housing 310.

[0215] Therefore, in the structure illustrated in FIG. 10, the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may interfere with the flow of the liquid refrigerant toward the refrigerant outlet port 332. There is a need to improve this problem. The structure configured to improve this problem is disclosed in FIGS. 11 to 13.

[0216] FIG. 11 is a diagram for illustrating a structure in which the refrigerant flow path guide 340 is mounted to the condenser 300 according to another embodiment. 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.

[0217] As shown in FIG. 11, each of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be configured such that an extension direction of the straight portion 343 is parallel to the up-down direction of the condenser 300. The plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the housing 310 in the staggered or zigzag manner in the left-right diameter direction of the housing. Thus, some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be disposed in the left portion of the inner space of the housing 310 while the others of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be disposed in the right portion of the inner space of the housing 310. Each of some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 disposed in the left portion of the inner space of the housing 310 and each of the others of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 disposed in the

[0218] right portion of the inner space of the housing 310 may be formed in a symmetrical manner to each other around the center of the housing 310.

[0219] Due to this structure, at least a portion of the lowermost end of the inner space of the housing 310 may be opened without being blocked by the refrigerant flow path guide 340. Accordingly, the liquid refrigerant accumulated on the bottom of the inner space of the housing 310 due to the gravity may not be blocked with the refrigerant flow path guide 340 but may smoothly flow to the refrigerant outlet port 332 through the open area.

[0220] Accordingly, a phenomenon in which the liquid refrigerant remains inside the housing 310 may be effectively suppressed.

[0221] FIG. 12 is a diagram for illustrating a structure in which the refrigerant flow path guide 340 is mounted to the condenser 300 according to still another embodiment. 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.

[0222] As illustrated in FIG. 12, each of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be disposed at a position spaced apart from the lowermost position of the housing 310. Each of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be oriented such that the extension direction of the straight portion 343 is inclined with respect to the up-down direction of the condenser 300.

[0223] In this case, the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the housing 310 in the staggered or zigzag manner in the housing. Thus, each of some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be oriented such that the extension direction of the straight portion 343 is inclined toward a left side with respect to the up-down direction of the condenser 300 while each of the others of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be oriented such that the extension direction of the straight portion 343 is inclined toward a right side with respect to the up-down direction of the condenser 300. In this case, each of some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 oriented such that the extension direction of the straight portion 343 is inclined toward the left side with respect to the up-down direction of the condenser 300 and each of the others of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 oriented such that the extension direction of the straight portion 343 is inclined toward the right side with respect to the up-down direction of

[0224] the condenser 300 may be formed in a symmetrical manner to each other around the center of the housing 310.

[0225] As described above, due to this structure, at least a portion of the lowermost end of the inner space of the housing 310 may be opened without being blocked by the refrigerant flow path guide 340. Accordingly, the liquid refrigerant accumulated on the bottom of the inner space of the housing 310 due to the gravity may not be blocked with the refrigerant flow path guide 340 but may smoothly flow to the refrigerant outlet port 332 through the open area. Accordingly, a phenomenon in which the liquid refrigerant remains inside the housing 310 may be effectively suppressed.

[0226] FIG. 13 is a diagram for illustrating the refrigerant flow path guide 340 according to another embodiment and a structure in which the refrigerant flow path guide 340 is mounted to the condenser 300. 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.

[0227] As shown in FIG. 13, each of the refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be formed in an arc shape. In this case, an angle of an arc of the refrigerant flow path guide 340 may be generally 90°. A plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be arranged in the circumferential direction of the housing 310. In one example, two or three refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be arranged in the circumferential direction of the housing 310.

[0228] In addition, the refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be positioned at different angular positions along the circumferential direction of the housing 310. Due to this structure, the refrigerant guided by the refrigerant flow path guides 340 may flow in the form of the screw-shaped manner in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. Accordingly, the flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing 310 may be further increased.

[0229] Each of some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides 340 may be oriented such that one of two straight portions 343 of an outer peripheral line thereof is parallel to the up-down direction of the condenser 300.

[0230] As described above, due to this structure, at least a portion of the lowermost end of the inner space of the housing 310 may be opened without being blocked by the refrigerant flow path guide 340. Accordingly, the liquid refrigerant accumulated on the bottom of the inner space of the housing 310 due to the gravity may not be blocked with the refrigerant

[0231] flow path guide 340 but may smoothly flow to the refrigerant outlet port 332 through the open area. Accordingly, a phenomenon in which the liquid refrigerant remains inside the housing 310 may be effectively suppressed.

[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 condenser for condensing refrigerant, the condenser comprising:a housing defining an outer shape of the condenser and configured such that washing water and the refrigerant flow therein in a separate manner from each other;a plurality of tubes received in the housing and extending in a longitudinal direction of the housing, wherein the plurality of tubes are arranged so as to be spaced from each other in the housing, wherein the washing water flow in and along the plurality of tubes; anda refrigerant flow path guide disposed inside the housing and configured to define a refrigerant flow path,wherein the refrigerant flow path guide is configured to block the flow of the refrigerant to change the flow direction of the refrigerant to increase a flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing.

2. The condenser of claim 1, wherein the condenser further comprises:a refrigerant inlet port protruding outwardly from the housing, wherein the refrigerant is introduced through the refrigerant inlet port into the housing; anda refrigerant outlet port protruding outwardly from the housing, wherein the refrigerant from an inner space of the housing is discharged through the refrigerant outlet port out of the housing,wherein the refrigerant inlet port and the refrigerant outlet port are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

3. The condenser of claim 1, 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.

4. The condenser of claim 3, 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.

5. The condenser of claim 2, wherein the refrigerant flow path guide is disposed at a position spaced apart from each of the refrigerant inlet port and the refrigerant outlet port in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

6. The condenser of claim 2, wherein the refrigerant flow path guide protrudes inwardly from an inner surface of the housing so as to intersect the longitudinal direction of the housing.

7. The condenser of claim 2, wherein the refrigerant flow path guide includes a plurality of refrigerant flow path guides arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing,wherein the refrigerant flow path guides are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the housing in a staggered manner in an up-down direction or a diameter direction of the housing to block a portion of a refrigerant flow path formed inside the housing.

8. The condenser of claim 2, wherein the refrigerant outlet port is formed to extend from a position under the condenser through the housing.

9. The condenser of claim 1, wherein the condenser further comprises closing portions respectively disposed on both opposing ends of the housing and respectively closing the both opposing ends of the housing, wherein the tubes extend through the closing portions.

10. The condenser of claim 1, wherein the refrigerant flow path guide comprises:a through-hole through which one of the tubes passes; anda seating groove into which another of the tubes is seated.

11. The condenser of claim 10, wherein the refrigerant flow path guide includes a plurality of refrigerant flow path guides,wherein each of the refrigerant flow path guides is formed a semicircular shape, wherein the semicircular shape comprising:a straight portion in which a plurality of seating grooves are formed; anda curved portion connected to the straight portion and defining an outer circumference of the refrigerant flow path guide,wherein the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

12. The condenser of claim 11, wherein some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides are disposed in a lower portion of an inner space of the housing,wherein each of some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides disposed in the lower portion of the inner space of the housing is oriented such that a vertical level of the straight portion thereof is higher than a vertical level of the curved portion thereof.

13. The condenser of claim 11, wherein each of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides is oriented such that an extension direction of the straight portion is parallel to an up-down direction of the condenser.

14. The condenser of claim 11, wherein each of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides is disposed at a position spaced apart from a lowermost position of the housing,wherein each of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides is oriented such that an extension direction of the straight portion is inclined with respect to an up-down direction of the condenser.

15. The condenser of claim 10, wherein the refrigerant flow path guide includes a plurality of refrigerant flow path guides,wherein the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing,wherein each of the refrigerant flow path guides is formed in an arc shape,wherein each of some of the plurality of refrigerant flow path guides is oriented such that one of two straight portions of an outer peripheral line thereof is parallel to an up-down direction of the condenser.

16. The condenser of claim 2, wherein each of the refrigerant inlet port and the refrigerant outlet port communicate with the refrigerant flow path defined between adjacent ones of the plurality of tubes.

17. A dishwasher comprising:the condenser of claim 1;a tub configured to accommodate therein dishes;a mounting portion disposed under the tub, wherein the condenser is mounted onto the mounding portion; anda compressor mounted on the mounting portion and communicating with the condenser, wherein the compressor is configured to compress the refrigerant.

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