dishwasher

Abstract

A dishwasher comprises a washing pump for transferring washing water and a filter assembly connected to the washing pump and positioned downstream of the washing pump in a flow direction of the washing water. The filter assembly filters out foreign substances contained in the flowing washing water. The dishwasher further comprises a condenser connected to the filter assembly and positioned downstream of the filter assembly in a flow direction of the washing water. The filter assembly is detachably coupled to the condenser.

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, 10-2025-0091202 filed on July 7, 2025, and 10-2025- 0140629 filed on September 29, 2025, which are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.BACKGROUNDFIELD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0009] The heat pump system may be provided with a 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 removed 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. In order to increase a size of an interface between the washing water and the refrigerant, that is, the heat transfer area therebetween, the flow path of the washing water may be composed of a plurality of tubes.

[0011] Since the plurality of tubes are disposed in the condenser, the washing water may flow to one tube having a large diameter and then to a tube having a small diameter. When the diameter of the tube is relatively small, clogging may occur therein.

[0012] The washing water flowing through the tube may circulate through the dishwasher under an operation of a washing pump. For this reason, when dishes washing is performed, foreign substances attached to the surface of the dish and removed therefrom using the washing water may be contained in the circulating washing water.

[0013] When the washing water containing the foreign substance is introduced into the tube of the small diameter, the foreign substance contained in the wash water may be attached to the inner surface of the tube without exiting the tube. When this circulation of the washing water continues, the amount of foreign substance adhering to the inner surface of the tube may continue to increase.

[0014] Therefore, when the dishwasher is continuously used, the foreign substances continue to accumulate inside the tube, which may lead to poor flow of the washing water in the condenser. When this phenomenon continues, at least some tubes may be blocked, and the flow of the washing water may deteriorate more rapidly.

[0015] This may result in damage to the condenser, poor operation of the dishwasher, and in severe cases, the operation of the dishwasher may be stopped.

[0016] Accordingly, there is a need for a structure capable of suppressing the accumulation of the foreign substances contained in the washing water inside the condenser and filtering such foreign substances. In addition, it is necessary to design the structure capable of suppressing the accumulation of the foreign substances such that the structure is easily disassembled so that the foreign substances filtered thereby and accumulated thereon may be easily removed therefrom.SUMMARY

[0017] A purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a heat pump system.

[0018] Another purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a structure that suppresses the accumulation of foreign substances contained in washing water inside a condenser of a heat pump system.

[0019] Still another purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a filter assembly for inhibiting foreign substances contained in washing water to flow into the condenser from flowing into the condenser.

[0020] Still yet another purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher having a structure in which the filter assembly is easily disassembled to facilitate cleaning of the filter assembly.

[0021] Still yet another purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a method for disassembling a dishwasher having the filter assembly which is easily disassembled.

[0022] 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.

[0023] An embodiment of the dishwasher may comprise a washing pump for transferring the washing water.

[0024] The dishwasher may comprise a filter assembly to filter out foreign substances contained in the flowing washing water. The filter assembly may be connected to the washing pump. The filter assembly may be positioned downstream of the washing pump in a flow direction of the washing water.

[0025] The condenser may be disposed downstream of the filter assembly in a flow direction of the washing water. The condenser may be connected to the filter assembly. The filter assembly may be detachably coupled to the condenser.

[0026] The condenser may comprise a housing defining an outer shape of the condenser and constructed such that the washing water and refrigerant flow separately therein. A tube may be accommodated inside the housing.

[0027] The tube may comprise a plurality of tubes arranged so as to be spaced from each other in a diameter of the housing, wherein each of the plurality of tubes extends in a longitudinal direction of the housing, wherein the washing water flows in and along the tubes.

[0028] The condenser may comprise a refrigerant inlet portion protruding outwardly from the housing, wherein the refrigerant flows through the refrigerant inlet portion into the housing.

[0029] The condenser may further comprise a refrigerant outlet portion protruding outwardly from the housing, wherein the refrigerant is discharged from an inside of the housing through the refrigerant outlet portion.

[0030] The condenser may further comprise a baffle formed inside the housing and constructed to define a flow path of the refrigerant.

[0031] The filter assembly may comprise a connector having one side coupled to the housing and the other side connected to a pipe connected to the washing pump.

[0032] The filter assembly may further comprise a filter disposed inside the connector. The filter assembly may further comprise a clamp for detachably coupling the condenser and the connector to each other.

[0033] The clamp may be fastened to the connector in an area where the housing and the connector are coupled to each other, thereby fixing the housing and the connector. The clamp may be formed in a ring shape.

[0034] One side of the connector may be coupled to an outer side surface of the condenser. The clamp may be coupled to an outer side surface of the connector.

[0035] The filter assembly may comprise a connector having one side coupled to the housing and the other side connected to a pipe connected to the washing pump.

[0036] The filter assembly may comprise a filter disposed inside the connector. The filter may comprise a filter protrusion formed to protrude toward a position upstream of the filter in a flowing direction of the washing water.

[0037] The filter may further comprise a filter casing constructed to surround the filter protrusion.

[0038] The filter protrusion may be constructed such that one side thereof is opened and communicates with a water inlet of the tube, and the other side thereof is formed in a meshed structure.

[0039] The filter protrusion may include a plurality of filter protrusions arranged in a diameter of the filter casing. Each of the plurality of filter protrusions may be aligned with each of the plurality of tubes in a length direction of each tube.

[0040] The filter protrusion may be composed of a tip portion and a remaining portion. The tip portion may be positioned upstream of the remaining portion in the flowing direction of the washing water.

[0041] The tip portion may have a curved surface convex toward a position upstream thereof in the flowing washing water.

[0042] At least a portion of the filter may be constructed to have a shape convex toward the condenser.

[0043] The filter may comprise a mesh having at least a portion formed to be convex toward the condenser.

[0044] The filter may further comprise a reinforcing portion bent outwardly from an end of the mesh and formed in a ring shape having a predetermined width. The reinforcing portion reinforces rigidity of the mesh of the filter.

[0045] The connector may comprise a small diameter portion to which a pipe connected to the washing pump may be connected, and a large diameter portion connected to the condenser.

[0046] The connector may further comprise a variable-diameter portion disposed between the small diameter portion and the large diameter portion and having a diameter gradually increasing as the variable-diameter portion extends along a flow direction of washing water.

[0047] The dishwasher 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 thereof opposite to the one side.

[0048] The fitting socket may comprise a first cell connected to the condenser. The fitting socket may comprise a second cell disposed on the other side of the first cell.

[0049] The fitting socket may comprise a third cell disposed between the first cell and the second cell. The diameter of the third cell may gradually decrease as the third cell extends toward the second cell.

[0050] A first distance defined as a shortest distance between the filter and an end adjacent to the filter of each of the tubes may be sized to be greater than an inner diameter of each of the tubes.

[0051] The filter assembly may further comprise a holder coupled to an opened portion of the filter and mounted on the connector.

[0052] The holder may comprise a ring-shaped hollow body; and a first grip portion disposed at an edge of the body and coupled to an end of the filter. The first grip portion has a first recess defined therein and extending in a longitudinal direction of the filter assembly.

[0053] The holder may comprise: a ring-shaped hollow body; and a second grip portion disposed at an edge of the body and coupled to an end of the filter. The second grip portion has a second recess defined therein and extending in a diameter direction of the body.

[0054] At least a portion of the filter may be constructed to have a conical shape convex toward the condenser.

[0055] The filter may comprise a disk-shaped portion having a mesh structure; and a plurality of spacing members protruding from the disk-shaped portion toward the tubes. The spacing members may be arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other in a diameter direction of the disk-shaped portion.

[0056] The filter may be formed in a plate shape in which a diameter direction of the filter intersects a longitudinal direction of the tube.

[0057] The dishwasher may further comprise a tub constructed to accommodate therein dishes; a base disposed under the tub; and a mounting portion disposed in the base. The condenser may be mounted on the mounting portion.

[0058] The condenser may be disposed on the mounting portion. The refrigerant may be condensed in the condenser to emit latent heat of condensation such that the washing water may be heated by the emitted heat of condensation.

[0059] The dishwasher may further comprise a water softener that produces soft water. The water softener may be mounted on the mounting portion.

[0060] The dishwasher may further comprise a sump in which the washing water is stored. The sump may be mounted on the mounting portion. The sump may be disposed under the tub.

[0061] The dishwasher may further comprise a lid detachably coupled to a side surface of the base. The lid may be constructed to open or close an inner space of the base.

[0062] The dishwasher may further comprise a cap detachably coupled to the water softener. The cap may open or close a water inlet of the water softener.

[0063] When the operation intends to clean or replace the filter, the operator may remove the lid from the base. Next, the operator may remove the cap from the water softener.

[0064] Next, the operator may remove a sump cover from the sump. Next, the operator may withdraw or extend the mounting portion out of the base.

[0065] Thereafter, the operator may remove the filter assembly from the mounting portion and may disassemble the filter assembly and may clean or replace the filter.

[0066] A disassembling method of the dishwasher according to an embodiment may comprise removing the lid from the base. The disassembling method of the dishwasher may comprise removing the cap opening and closing the water softener from the water softener.

[0067] The disassembling method of the dishwasher may comprise removing the sump cover opening or closing the upper opening of the sump from the tub. The disassembling method of the dishwasher may comprise releasing the coupling between each of the sump and the water softener and the tub. The disassembling method of the dishwasher may comprise withdrawing or extending the mounting portion out of or from the base.

[0068] In the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the washing water discharged from the washing pump may flow through the filter assembly and be introduced into the condenser. Foreign substances contained in the circulating washing water may be filtered by the filter assembly and then introduced into the condenser.

[0069] Thus, the washing water may be introduced into the plurality of tubes having a small diameter in a state in which the substantial amount of the foreign substances has been removed from the washing water. Accordingly, a phenomenon in which the tube of the condenser is clogged with the foreign substances contained in the washing water may be very effectively suppressed.

[0070] In addition, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the filter assembly may be detachably coupled to the condenser for cleaning the filter of the filter assembly.

[0071] Accordingly, the operator removes the filter assembly from the condenser and disassembles the filter assembly and cleans the filter of the filter assembly, thereby effectively preventing the filter of the filter assembly from being clogged. Accordingly, the performance of the dishwasher may be improved.

[0072] Moreover, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the operator may easily couple the filter to the dishwasher or remove the filter from the dishwasher by attaching or detaching the clamp to or from the hosing of the condenser. Accordingly, the cleaning operation of the filter is easily performed, thereby providing convenience to the operator.

[0073] In addition, in the dishwasher according to the present disclosure, the filter may comprise the filter protrusion. In addition, the filter protrusion may comprise the tip portion disposed upstream of the remaining portion of the filter protrusion in the flowing direction of the washing water. The tip portion may be constructed to have the curved surface convex toward a position upstream thereof in the flowing direction of the washing water.

[0074] Due to this structure, the foreign substances do not accumulate on the tip portion disposed at the position corresponding to the position the water inlet of the tube in the flowing direction of the washing water, such that the washing water may smoothly flow through the filter and the condenser even when the foreign substances are significantly accumulated in the filter. This may reduce the operation failure of the dishwasher due to the clogging of the filter. In addition, a cleaning period at which the filter and the condenser are disassembled and the filter is cleansed is lengthened, such that maintenance of the dishwasher may be convenient.

[0075] In addition, the dishwasher according to the present disclosure may have a structure in which the filter assembly is easily disassembled. Accordingly, the disassembling method of the dishwasher may facilitate cleaning or replacement of the filter. Therefore, the convenience of the work may be improved.

[0076] In addition to the above-described effects, the specific effects of the present disclosure will be described together while illustrating specific matters for carrying out the present disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0077] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram for illustrating components disposed in a base in a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0078] FIG. 3 is a diagram for illustrating a condenser and components related thereto according to an embodiment.

[0079] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is an exploded view for illustrating a condenser and components related thereto. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a filter according to an embodiment.

[0080] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a lid of an embodiment is removed from the base in the dishwasher.

[0081] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a dishwasher having a lid according to another embodiment.

[0082] FIG. 9 is a side view of FIG. 8.

[0083] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the lid pivots to open a front surface of the base in the view of FIG. 8.

[0084] FIG. 11 is a side view of FIG. 10.

[0085] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a disassembling method of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0086] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the lid is coupled to the base of the dishwasher.

[0087] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the lid is removed from the base.

[0088] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a cap of a water softener and a sump cover of a sump are removed from the dishwasher.

[0089] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a bottom portion of the tub in a state in which the cap of the water softener and the cover of the sump are removed from the dishwasher.

[0090] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the water softener and the sump are removed from the tub.

[0091] FIG. 18 is a front view of an area of the base of the dishwasher in the state of FIG. 17. FIG. 19 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a filter assembly of an embodiment. FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of a holder according to an embodiment of a portion 20 of FIG. 19.

[0092] FIG. 19 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a filter assembly of an embodiment.

[0093] FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of a holder according to an embodiment of a portion 20 of FIG. 19.

[0094] FIG. 21 is an enlarged view of a holder according to another embodiment of a portion 21 of FIG. 19.

[0095] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing a filter unit according to another embodiment.

[0096] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing a filter unit according to still another embodiment.

[0097] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing a filter unit according to still yet another embodiment.

[0098] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a condenser and components related thereto according to still another embodiment.

[0099] FIG. 26 is a perspective view showing a portion of the condenser as shown in

[0100] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of FIG. 26.

[0101] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of some of the components as shown in FIG. 26 when being viewed in a different direction from a direction in which being viewed in FIG. 26.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] Throughout the present document, unless otherwise stated, each component may be singular or plural.

[0105] 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.

[0106] Throughout the present disclosure, "A and / or B" means A, B, or A and B,

[0107] unless otherwise specified, and "C to D" means C inclusive to D inclusive unless otherwise specified.

[0108] As used herein, terms such as "upper", "lower", "side", etc. are used to refer

[0109] to a portion, a direction, and the like of a dishwasher in a state where the dishwasher is generally installed.

[0110] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0111] 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.

[0112] The dishwasher may further comprise a plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15

[0113] 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.

[0114] The tub 12 may be formed in a hexahedral shape with an open front surface

[0115] 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

[0116] 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.

[0117] The plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 are arranged in the up-down

[0118] 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.

[0119] The plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15 are supplied with the washing water

[0120] 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.

[0121] The lower spray arm 13, the upper spray arm 14, and the top spray arm 15

[0122] 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.

[0123] The sump 100 may be disposed under the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12

[0124] 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.

[0125] The wash water sprayed through the plurality of spray arms 13, 14, and 15

[0126] 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.

[0127] During the washing operation, the washing water may wash the dishes

[0128] 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.

[0129] The washing pump 150 supplies the washing water stored in the sump 100 to

[0130] 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.

[0131] When the washing pump 150 operates, the washing water stored in the sump

[0132] 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.

[0133] The switching valve 130 selectively supplies the washing water transferred

[0134] 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.

[0135] The sump 100 is connected to a water supply flow path 23 through which the

[0136] 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.

[0137] The sump 100 may be connected to a drain flow path 24 for draining the

[0138] 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.

[0139] A heating device for heating the washing water may be provided inside the

[0140] 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.

[0141] In an embodiment, the washing water may be heated using the heat pump

[0142] system. Hereinafter, the heat pump system will be described first.

[0143] The heat pump system refers to a system that pumps heat from a low

[0144] 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.

[0145] The heat pump system for performing the two-phase flow refrigeration cycle

[0146] 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.

[0147] The refrigerant may be introduced into the compressor 500 in a low

[0148] 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.

[0149] The refrigerant and the washing water may flow separately in the condenser

[0150] 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.

[0151] The refrigerant may be phase-changed from the superheated gas state to a

[0152] saturated state in which liquid and gas coexist while the refrigerant is maintained at theoretically the same pressure in the condenser 300.

[0153] The refrigerant flows into the condenser 300 in the superheated state and

[0154] 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.

[0155] The refrigerant from the condenser 300 may be introduced into the expansion

[0156] 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.

[0157] The refrigerant may undergo an adiabatic expansion, i.e., an expansion in

[0158] 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.

[0159] When the refrigerant is introduced into the evaporator 600, the proportion of

[0160] 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.

[0161] The refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 600 may be introduced into

[0162] 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.

[0163] Typically, a refrigeration apparatus uses a principle in which the refrigerant

[0164] 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.

[0165] In the heat pump system, the heat exchange occurs between the high

[0166] 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.

[0167] In this regard, such a heat pump system does not always need to operate while

[0168] 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.

[0169] Even when the compressor 500 is stopped and the washing water is not heated,

[0170] the washing water may flow through the condenser 300 and circulate throughout the dishwasher.

[0171] In another embodiment, a bypass flow path bypassing the condenser 300 may

[0172] 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.

[0173] FIG. 2 is a diagram for illustrating components disposed in a base 30 in the

[0174] dishwasher according to an embodiment. The components constituting the heat pump system may be disposed, for example, under the tub 12.

[0175] The dishwasher may comprise the base 30 disposed under the tub 12. The heat

[0176] 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.

[0177] The dishwasher may comprise a mounting portion 40 on which the condenser

[0178] 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. 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.

[0179] The mounting portion 40 may be disposed inside the base 30. The mounting

[0180] 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.

[0181] While the mounting portion 40 is guided by a guide rail formed on an inner

[0182] side surface of the base 30, the mounting portion may slide to extend from the base 30.

[0183] The condenser 300 may be disposed on the mounting portion 40. The

[0184] 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.

[0185] Although not shown, the expansion valve may be disposed at an appropriate

[0186] 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.

[0187] The dishwasher may comprise a water softener 41 for producing soft water.

[0188] The water softener 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.

[0189] In an embodiment, the washing water may be introduced into the water

[0190] softener 41, and the water may be converted into the soft water using the water softener 41, and then the soft water may be used for dishwashing. However, the water softener 41 is not an essential component of the dishwasher.

[0191] The water softener 41 may communicate with the sump 100 through a pipe.

[0192] Accordingly, the water introduced into the water softener 41 may be softened by the water softener 41. The soft water discharged from the water softener 41 may be introduced into the sump 100 and used for washing the dishes.

[0193] The dishwasher may comprise the sump 100 in which the washing water is

[0194] stored. The sump 100 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40. The sump 100 may be disposed under the tub 12.

[0195] The washing water stored in the sump 100 may flow under an operation of the

[0196] 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.

[0197] In this regard, the washing water is heated by the heat pump system and

[0198] 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. In addition, the washing pump 150 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40.

[0199] In addition, the compressor 500 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40.

[0200] The compressor 500 may communicate with the condenser 300. The compressor 500 compress the refrigerant. In addition, the evaporator 600 may be mounted on the mounting portion 40.

[0201] As described above, the compressor 500, the condenser 300, the expansion

[0202] 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.

[0203] Meanwhile, when the washing pump 150 operates, the washing water may

[0204] 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.

[0205] The refrigerant and the washing water may flow separately in the condenser

[0206] 300. 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. In order to increase an area size of an interface between washing water and the refrigerant, that is, the heat transfer area therebetween, the flow path of the washing water may be composed of a plurality of tubes 320.

[0207] Since the plurality of tubes 320 are disposed in the condenser 300, the washing

[0208] water may flow to one tube having a large diameter and then to the tube 320 having a small diameter. When the tube 320 has a relatively small diameter, clogging may occur in the tube 320 having the small diameter.

[0209] The washing water flowing through the tube 320 may circulate through the

[0210] dishwasher under an operation of the washing pump 150. For this reason, when dishes washing is performed, the foreign substances attached to the surface of the dish and removed therefrom may be contained in the circulating washing water.

[0211] When the foreign substances contained in the washing water are introduced

[0212] into the tube 320 having the small diameter, the foreign substances may not exit the tube 320 and may be attached to the inner surface of the tube 320. When the circulation process of the washing water continues, the amount of foreign substance adhering to the inner surface of the tube 320 may continue to increase.

[0213] Accordingly, when the dishwasher is continuously used, the foreign

[0214] substances continue to accumulate inside the tube 320, which may deteriorate the flow of the washing water in the condenser 300. When this phenomenon continues, at least some of the tubes 320 may be blocked, and thus the flow of the washing water may deteriorate more rapidly.

[0215] As a result, damage to the condenser 300 may occur, the operation of the

[0216] dishwasher may be deteriorated, and in severe cases, the operation of the dishwasher may be stopped.

[0217] Accordingly, there is a need for a structure capable of suppressing the

[0218] accumulation of the foreign substances contained in the washing water inside the condenser 300 and filtering such foreign substances. In addition, it is necessary to design the structure capable of suppressing the accumulation of the foreign substances such that the structure is easily disassembled so that the foreign substances filtered thereby and accumulated thereon may be easily removed therefrom.

[0219] Hereinafter, this structure will be described in detail with reference to the

[0220] drawings.

[0221] FIG. 3 is a diagram for illustrating the condenser 300 according to an

[0222] embodiment and components related thereto. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 3.

[0223] The dishwasher may comprise a filter assembly 200 for filtering out foreign

[0224] substances contained in the flowing washing water. The filter assembly 200 may be connected to the washing pump 150. The filter assembly 200 may be disposed downstream of the washing pump 150 in the flow direction of the washing water.

[0225] The condenser 300 may be disposed downstream of the filter assembly 200 in

[0226] the flow direction of the washing water. The condenser 300 may be connected to the filter assembly 200.

[0227] Accordingly, the washing water discharged from the washing pump 150 may

[0228] flow through the filter assembly 200 and be introduced into the condenser 300. After the foreign substances contained in the circulating washing water are filtered out by the filter assembly 200, the washing water from which the foreign substances have been removed may be introduced into the condenser 300.

[0229] Accordingly, the washing water may be introduced into the plurality of tubes

[0230] 320 having a small diameter in a state in which the contained foreign substance is almost removed therefrom. Accordingly, a phenomenon in which the tube of the condenser 300 is clogged with the foreign substances contained in the washing water may be very effectively suppressed.

[0231] When the dishwasher is continuously operated, the foreign substances

[0232] contained in the washing water may be attached to the filter assembly 200. When the dishwasher is used for a long time, the amount of foreign substance accumulated in the filter assembly 200 increases, and eventually, the filter assembly 200 may be blocked. To prevent this situation, it is necessary to periodically clean the filter assembly 200.

[0233] In an embodiment, for cleaning of the filter assembly 200, the filter assembly

[0234] 200 may be detachably coupled to the condenser 300.

[0235] Accordingly, the operator removes the filter assembly 200 from the condenser

[0236] 300 and cleans the filter assembly 200, thereby effectively preventing the filter assembly 200

[0237] from being blocked with the foreign substances. Accordingly, the performance of the dishwasher may be improved.

[0238] The condenser 300 may comprise a housing 310 in which the washing water

[0239] 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.

[0240] The housing 310 may be generally formed in a cylindrical shape having an

[0241] 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.

[0242] The space through which the refrigerant flows may be defined inside the

[0243] 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.

[0244] The tube 320 may comprise a plurality of tubes received in the housing 310

[0245] 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.

[0246] The tubes 320 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other.

[0247] Specifically, the tubes 320 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a diameter direction of the housing 310.

[0248] Since the plurality of tubes 320 are provided, a contact area between the

[0249] 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.

[0250] The condenser 300 may comprise a refrigerant inlet port 331 through which

[0251] 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

[0252] 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.

[0253] For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, each of the refrigerant inlet port

[0254] 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.

[0255] One end of each of the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port

[0256] 332 may be connected to a pipe through which the refrigerant flows.

[0257] The refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be

[0258] positioned in relation to the flow direction of each of the washing water and the refrigerant.

[0259] For example, when the condenser 300 is embodied as a condenser 300 in

[0260] 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.

[0261] In another example, when the condenser 300 is embodied as a condenser 300

[0262] 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.

[0263] The refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be

[0264] 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.

[0265] The refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may be

[0266] 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.

[0267] However, the refrigerant inlet port 331 and the refrigerant outlet port 332 may

[0268] be provided at positions avoiding a position where a baffle 340 is disposed for smooth flow of the refrigerant.

[0269] The condenser 300 may comprise the baffle 340 defining a flow path of the

[0270] refrigerant. The baffle 340 may be formed inside the housing 310.

[0271] For example, a plurality of baffles 340 may be provided. Each of the baffles

[0272] 340 may be disposed inside the housing 310 and the baffles 340 may be arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing 310.

[0273] For example, the baffle 340 may protrude inwardly from the inner wall surface

[0274] of the housing 310. The baffle 340 may protrude in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the housing 310.

[0275] The baffles 340 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the

[0276] housing 310 in the staggered or zigzag manner in the up-down direction or the diameter direction of the housing. Accordingly, the baffle 340 may be provided to block a portion of the flow of the refrigerant generated inside the housing 310.

[0277] Due to this structure, the baffle 340 may block the flow of the refrigerant and

[0278] change the flow direction thereof. Accordingly, the baffle 340 may increase the flow length by which the refrigerant flows in the housing 310.

[0279] The filter assembly 200 may comprise a connector 210 having one side

[0280] coupled to the housing 310. The other side of the connector 210 may be connected to a pipe connected to the washing pump 150.

[0281] The filter assembly 200 may comprise a filter 220 disposed inside the

[0282] connector 210. The filter 220 may serve to filter the foreign substances contained in the washing water flowing into the filter assembly 200.

[0283] The filter assembly 200 may comprise a clamp 230 for detachably coupling

[0284] the condenser 300 to the connector 210. The clamp 230 may press the connector 210 coupled to the condenser 300 to seal an interface between the condenser 300 and the connector 210. Accordingly, the clamp 230 may prevent a gap from being formed between the condenser 300

[0285] and the connector 210. Accordingly, the clamp 230 may effectively suppress water leakage between the condenser 300 and the connector 210.

[0286] The clamp 230 may be fastened to the connector 210 at a position where the

[0287] housing 310 and the connector 210 are coupled to each other, thereby fixing the housing 310 and the connector 210 to each other.

[0288] FIG. 5 is an exploded view illustrating the condenser 300 and components

[0289] related thereto. Referring to FIG. 5, the clamp 230 may be formed in a ring shape.

[0290] The clamp 230 may be made of various materials. For example, the clamp 230

[0291] may be made of a rubber material having a strong tensile force and easy elastic deformation to firmly couple the connector 210 to the housing 310.

[0292] In another example, the clamp 230 may be made of a metal material having

[0293] good corrosion resistance, such as copper, aluminum, stainless steel, or the like. In the case of the clamp 230 made of the metal material, a coupling portion may be formed at the clamp so that the operator may easily attach and detach the clamp 230 to and from the connector 210. In this regard, the clamp 230 may have a structure in which a coupling mechanism such as a screw or the like is mounted on such a coupling portion.

[0294] One side of the connector 210 may be coupled to the outer side surface of the

[0295] condenser 300. Specifically, one side of the connector 210 may be coupled to the outer side surface of the housing 310. The clamp 230 may be coupled to the outer side surface of the connector 210.

[0296] Accordingly, in other that the connector 210 is coupled to the condenser 300,

[0297] the operator may first couple the connector 210 to the housing 310 of the condenser 300. Next, the operator may couple the clamp 230 to the outer side surface of the housing 310 at the coupling portion between the housing 310 and the connector 210. Accordingly, the connector 210 may be firmly coupled to the housing 310.

[0298] When the connector 210 is removed from the condenser 300 to clean the filter

[0299] 220, the operator may first remove the clamp 230 from the housing 310. Next, the operator may remove the connector 210 from the housing 310.

[0300] Accordingly, the connector 210 and the housing 310 may be removed from

[0301] each other. The filter 220 disposed inside the removed connector 210 may be taken out of the connector 210 to clean the filter 220.

[0302] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a filter according to an embodiment.

[0303] The filter 220 may be constructed such that at least a portion thereof has a

[0304] convex shape in a direction toward the condenser 300.

[0305] Since the filter 220 is formed in the convex shape, a total area of the filter may

[0306] be increased compared to a case where the filter 220 has a disk shape.

[0307] Accordingly, a total area of the filter by which the washing water flows

[0308] through the filter may be increased. Accordingly, the foreign substances contained in washing water may attached to the entire filter having a relatively large area. Accordingly, a cleaning period of the filter is lengthened, and thus the number of cleaning operations of the filter is reduced, thereby providing convenience to the users and the operator.

[0309] The filter 220 may be formed to be convex in a direction toward the condenser

[0310] 300. Accordingly, the filter 220 may be formed to be convex in a direction in which the washing water flows.

[0311] This structure may effectively reduce the flow resistance of the washing water,.

[0312] compared to the case in which the filter 220 is formed to be convex in the direction opposite to the direction in which the washing water flows. Accordingly, the washing water may circulate smoothly.

[0313] The filter 220 may comprise a mesh 221 at least partially convexly formed in

[0314] a direction toward the condenser 300. The mesh 221 may be provided in a net shape to have a hole defined therein through which the washing water flows.

[0315] The washing water may flow through these holes. In this case, the foreign

[0316] substance contained in the washing water may not pass through the hole and may be caught by the filter 220. When the size of the hole formed in the mesh 221 is smaller, the effect of filtering foreign substances may increase, but the flow resistance of the washing water may increase. Therefore, the size of the hole may be appropriately selected in consideration of a trade-off

[0317] between the effect of filtering the foreign substances and the flow resistance of the washing water.

[0318] Ahe area of the hole of the mesh 221 of the filter 220 of the filter assembly

[0319] 200 may be equal to or smaller than that the area of the hole formed in the mesh of the filter 110 of the sump. Thus, a considerable number of foreign substances have been already filtered by the filter 110 of the sump. For this reason, the size of the foreign substances having passed through the filter 110 of the sump may be smaller than the area of the mesh hole of the filter 110 of the sump. Therefore, the hole area of the mesh 221 of the filter assembly 200 of the condenser is sized to be smaller than the hole area of the mesh of the filter 110, thereby filtering a larger number of the foreign substances.

[0320] The filter 220 may comprise a reinforcing portion 222 bent from an end of the

[0321] mesh 221. The reinforcing portion 222 may be provided in a ring shape having a predetermined width. The reinforcing portion 222 may reinforce the rigidity of the filter 220.

[0322] The mesh 221 has a structure having a weak rigidity as a whole because there

[0323] are a large number of holes. Accordingly, the mesh 221 may be deformed by the momentum of the flowing washing water. When the mesh 221 is deformed, the amount of the washing water having flowed by the mesh 221 without flowing through the mesh 221 may increase. Accordingly, the foreign substances that are not filtered by the filter 220 may flow into the tube 320, and clogging of the tube 320 may occur.

[0324] The reinforcing portion 222 may be disposed at the end of the mesh 221 and

[0325] be formed in a ring shape with a predetermined width. Thus, the reinforcing portion 222 may reinforce the mesh 221 and maintain the shape of the mesh 221 such that the mesh 221 may not be deformed by the flowing washing water. Accordingly, foreign substances not filtered by the filter 220 may be effectively prevented from flowing into the tube 320. Accordingly, the performance of the filter 220 may be improved.

[0326] The connector 210 may be connected to a pipe having a small inner diameter

[0327] at one side of the connector 210. The connector 210 may be coupled to the housing 310 having a large inner diameter at the other side of the connector 210. Accordingly, the connector 210 may comprise a portion having the inner diameter increasing as the portion extends in the flow direction of the washing water.

[0328] The connector 210 may be made of a metal material having excellent

[0329] corrosion resistance and heat resistance, such as copper, aluminum, stainless steel, or the like, so as to withstand high-temperature washing water. In another embodiment, the connector 210 may be made of a non-metal material having excellent corrosion resistance and heat resistance, such as silicone resin.

[0330] The connector 210 may comprise a small diameter portion 211 to which a pipe

[0331] connected to the washing pump 150 is connected. The small-diameter portion 211 may have a smaller diameter than that of a large-diameter portion 212. The connector 210 may comprise the large diameter portion 212 connected to the condenser 300. The large-diameter portion 212 may have a larger diameter than that of the small-diameter portion 211.

[0332] The filter 220 may be accommodated in the large-diameter portion 212.

[0333] Accordingly, the length and the cross-sectional area of the large-diameter portion 212 may correspond to the length and the cross-sectional area of the filter 220.

[0334] The connector 210 may comprise a variable-diameter portion 213 disposed

[0335] between the small-diameter portion 211 and the large-diameter portion 212. The diameter of the variable-diameter portion 213 may be gradually increased as the variable-diameter portion extends along the flow direction of the washing water.

[0336] The washing water may gradually increase in flow cross-sectional area due to

[0337] the structure of the connector 210 while flowing through the connector 210. Due to this structure, the flow of the washing water introduced into the condenser 300 may be relatively stabilized compared to the case in which the flow cross-sectional area rapidly increases. Accordingly, the flow resistance of the washing water may be reduced. Accordingly, the washing water may smoothly flow in the connector 210 and the condenser 300.

[0338] In an embodiment, the operator may easily couple or remove the filter 220 to

[0339] or from the dishwasher by attaching or detaching the clamp 230 to or from the condenser. Accordingly, the cleaning operation of the filter 220 is easily performed, thereby providing convenience to the operator.

[0340] The dishwasher may comprise a fitting socket 400 having one side connected

[0341] 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.

[0342] The fitting socket 400 may connect the housing 310 of the condenser 300

[0343] having a large diameter to a washing water pipe having a small diameter. 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. The fitting socket 400 may be provided in a shape substantially symmetrical to that of the connector 210.

[0344] The fitting socket 400 may comprise a first cell 410 connected to the

[0345] 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.

[0346] The fitting socket 400 may comprise a third cell 430 disposed between the

[0347] 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 be gradually decreased as the third cell extends along the flow direction of the washing water.

[0348] The flow cross-sectional area of the washing water may gradually decrease

[0349] due to the structure of the third cell 430 while flowing through 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 the case where the flow cross-sectional area is rapidly reduced. Accordingly, the flow resistance of the washing water may be reduced. Therefore, the washing water discharged from the condenser 300 may smoothly flow through the fitting socket 400 and then, the washing water pipe.

[0350] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a lid 50 of an embodiment is

[0351] removed from the base 30 in the dishwasher.

[0352] The dishwasher may comprise the lid 50 detachably coupled to a side surface

[0353] of the base 30. The lid 50 may open and close the inside of the base 30.

[0354] As described above, the filter 220 needs to be periodically removed from the

[0355] dishwasher and cleaned or replaced. Accordingly, the lid 50 may be constructed such that the operator easily removes the filter 220 from the dishwasher.

[0356] The lid 50 may be disposed at a side of the base 30 at which the filter assembly

[0357] 200 is disposed. The lid 50 may be disposed, for example, on the front surface of the dishwasher. Typically, the dishwasher may be installed indoors in a built-in manner. Accordingly, the front surface of the dishwasher is exposed to the outside, and the side and rear surfaces of the dishwasher are not exposed to the outside, making it difficult for the user or the operator to access the components of the dishwasher through the side and rear surfaces thereof.

[0358] Accordingly, the condenser 300 and the filter assembly 200 may be disposed

[0359] in the front area of the base 30 to facilitate the removal of the filter 220. Accordingly, in order to easily disassemble the filter assembly 200 by exposing the filter assembly 200 to the outside, the lid 50 exposing the filter assembly 200 to the outside may be disposed on the front surface of the dishwasher.

[0360] In one embodiment, the lid 50 may be constructed to be entirely removed from

[0361] the base 30 as shown in FIG. 7. In this case, the operator may remove the lid from the base and then remove the mounting portion 40 from the base 30. In addition, the filter 220 may be removed from the dishwasher.

[0362] Alternatively, the lid 50 may be constructed to selectively open or close the

[0363] entire front surface of the base. In addition, the filter assembly 200 may be disassembled without removing the mounting portion 40 from the base 30. In addition, the filter 220 may be removed from the filter assembly 200.

[0364] In another embodiment, the lid 50 may be constructed to selectively open or

[0365] close only a portion of the front surface of the base 30 corresponding to an area where the condenser 300 and the filter assembly 200 are disposed. In this case, the operator may manipulate the lid 50 to open the partial front surface of the base. In addition, the filter assembly 200 may be disassembled without removing the mounting portion 40 from the base 30. In addition, the filter 220 may be removed from the filter assembly 200.

[0366] Hereinafter, the lid 50 having a structure of opening the entire front surface of

[0367] the base 30 will be described.

[0368] As shown in FIG. 7, the lid 50 may be coupled to the base 30 using a coupling

[0369] mechanism and / or in a shape fitting manner. The operator may remove the lid 50 from the base

[0370] 30. In addition, the operator may disassemble the filter assembly 200 exposed to the outside, and may remove the filter 220 from the filter assembly 200.

[0371] After completing the cleaning or replacement of the filter 220, the operator

[0372] may again couple the lid 50 to the base 30.

[0373] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a dishwasher provided with the lid

[0374] 50 of another embodiment. FIG. 9 is a side view of FIG. 8.

[0375] As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the lid 50 may be hinge-coupled to the base 30 in

[0376] a pivotable manner around a hinge without being entirely removed from the base 30. Accordingly, when the lid 50 pivots to open the front surface of the base, the filter assembly 200 may be exposed to the outside.

[0377] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the lid 50 pivots to open the

[0378] front surface of the base in the view of FIG. 8. FIG. 11 is a side view of FIG. 10.

[0379] When the operator moves up the lid 50 in a pivoting manner around the hinge,

[0380] as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the condenser 300 and the filter assembly 200 disposed in the front area of the base 30 may be exposed to the outside. In this state, the operator may disassemble the filter assembly 200. The filter accommodated in the filter assembly 200 may be removed from the filter assembly 200. In addition, the filter 220 may be cleaned or replaced.

[0381] Hereinafter, a method for disassembling a dishwasher according to an

[0382] embodiment for removing the filter 220 from the dishwasher will be described in detail.

[0383] First, components related to the disassembly of the dishwasher will be

[0384] described with reference to FIG. 15 to be described later.

[0385] The dishwasher may comprise a cap 401 detachably coupled to the water

[0386] softener 41. The cap 401 may open or close a water inlet of the water softener 41. The cap 401 may protrude upwardly from the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12. The cap 401 may be coupled to the water inlet of the water softener 41 in, for example, a screwing manner.

[0387] When the soft water is required, the user may remove the cap 401. In addition,

[0388] washing water may be injected into the open water inlet of the water softener 41. Accordingly,

[0389] the water softener 41 may produce the soft water. The soft water may be introduced into the sump 100 and used for washing.

[0390] In order that the mounting portion 40 is removed from the base 30, the operator

[0391] may remove the cap 401 and remove the water softener 41 from the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12. Thereafter, the operator may remove the mounting portion 40 from the base 30.

[0392] The dishwasher may comprise a sump cover 101 partially disposed in the tub

[0393] 12. The sump cover 101 may be detachably coupled to the sump 100. The sump cover 101 may open or close an upper opening of the sump 100.

[0394] A hole through which the washing water flows may be formed in a portion of

[0395] the sump cover 101. The washing water sprayed to the tub 12 may drop by gravity. The dropped washing water may be introduced into the sump 100 through the hole formed in the sump cover 101.

[0396] When the mounting portion 40 is removed from the base 30, the operator may

[0397] remove the sump cover 101 and then remove the sump 100 from the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12. Thereafter, the mounting portion 40 may be removed from the base 30.

[0398] When the lid 50 is constructed to be removed from the base to open the entire

[0399] front surface of the base 30, the user may withdraw the mounting portion 40 from the base 30. Accordingly, it may be easier for the operator to access the mounting portion 40 than when the mounting portion 40 is not withdrawn from the base 30. Accordingly, the operator may easily replace the filter 220.

[0400] For example, the operator may remove the mounting portion 40 from the base

[0401] 30 and then withdraw or extend the mounting portion 40 from the base 30 in a sliding manner. Thereafter, the operator may remove the filter 220 from the removed mounting portion 40 and clean or replace the filter 220.

[0402] When cleaning or replacing the filter 220, the operator may remove the lid 50

[0403] from the base 30. Next, the operator may remove the cap 401 from the water softener 41. Next, the operator may remove the sump cover 101 from the sump 100. Next, the operator may withdraw the mounting portion 40 from the base 30. Thereafter, the operator may remove the filter 220 from the mounting portion 40 and may clean or replace the removed filter.

[0404] In another example, when the lid 50 is coupled to the base 30 in a hinge- coupled manner, the operator may move up the lid 50 in the pivoting manner around the hinge to open the front surface of the base 30 without removing the entirety of the lid 50 from the base 30. In addition, the operator may withdraw the mounting portion 40 from the base 30.

[0405] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a disassembling method of a dishwasher

[0406] according to an embodiment. The disassembling method of the dishwasher according to an embodiment may comprise removing the lid 50 from the base 30 in S 110. In the disassembling method of the dishwasher, the cap 401 for opening and closing the water softener 41 may be removed from the water softener 41 in S 120.

[0407] The disassembling method of the dishwasher may comprise removing the

[0408] sump cover 101 that opens or closes the upper opening of the sump 100 from the tub 12 in S130. The disassembling method of the dishwasher may comprise releasing the coupling between each of the water softener 41 and the sump 100 and the tub 12 in S140. The disassembling method of the dishwasher may comprise withdrawing the mounting portion 40 from the base 30 in S150.

[0409] Hereinafter, each of the steps of the disassembling method of the dishwasher

[0410] will be described in detail.

[0411] FIG. 13 illustrates the state in which the lid 50 is coupled to the base 30 of the

[0412] dishwasher. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the lid 50 is removed from the base 30.

[0413] First, the sump cover 101 for opening or closing the upper opening of the sump

[0414] 100 may be removed from the tub 12 in S110. The operator may remove the lid 50 of FIG. 13 from the base 30 to open the front surface of the base 30.

[0415] In another example, when the lid 50 is hinge-coupled to the base, the operator

[0416] may pivot the lid 50 upwardly around the hinge to open the front surface of the base 30 without removing the lid 50 from the base 30.

[0417] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the cap 401 of the water

[0418] softener 41 and the sump cover 101 of the sump 100 are removed from the dishwasher. FIG.

[0419] 16 is a diagram of the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12 when the cap 401 of the water softener 41 and the sump cover 101 of the sump 100 are removed from the dishwasher.

[0420] Next, the cap 401 for opening and closing the water softener 41 may be

[0421] removed from the water softener 41 in S 120.

[0422] The operator may remove the cap 401 disposed on the bottom portion 12b of

[0423] the tub 12 from the water softener 41. Accordingly, the water softener 41 may be removed from the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12.

[0424] Next, the sump cover 101 for opening or closing the upper opening of the

[0425] sump 100 may be removed from the tub 12 in S 130. The operator may remove the sump cover 101 from the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12. Accordingly, the sump 100 may be removed from the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12.

[0426] Referring to FIG. 15, some of the components of the filter 110 for filtering the

[0427] washing water to be collected into the sump 100 may be coupled to the sump cover 101. Accordingly, when the sump cover 101 is removed, some of the components of the filter 110 together with the sump cover 101 may be removed from the dishwasher.

[0428] The above-described steps 5110 to S130 do not necessarily proceed in the

[0429] order of S110, S120, and S130, and the operator may arbitrarily change this order to proceed with the disassembling work.

[0430] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating the state in which the water softener 41 and

[0431] the sump 100 are removed from the tub 12.

[0432] Next, the coupling between each of the water softener 41 and the sump 100

[0433] and the tub 12 may be released in S140. The water inlet of the water softener 41 may protrude upwardly and may be coupled to a hole formed in the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12 in a force-fitting manner.

[0434] Similarly, the top of the sump 100 may also be coupled in an interference fit

[0435] manner to another hole formed in the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12.

[0436] Accordingly, even after the cap 401 and the sump cover 101 are removed, the

[0437] water softener 41 and the sump 100 may be maintained in a state coupled to the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12.

[0438] The operator may press the water inlet of the water softener 41 and the upper

[0439] portion of the sump 100 in a downward direction as shown by arrows in FIG. 17. Accordingly, the water inlet of the water softener 41 and the upper portion of the sump 100 may move downwards as shown by the arrows. Accordingly, the water softener 41 and the sump 100 may be removed from the bottom portion 12b of the tub 12.

[0440] FIG. 18 is a front view of the base 30 of the dishwasher in the state of FIG. 17.

[0441] Next, the mounting portion 40 may be withdrawn from the base 30 in S150.

[0442] Due to the release of the coupling between each of the water softener and the sump and the tub in the step S 140, the components disposed on the mounting portion 40 may be entirely removed from the tub 12.

[0443] Accordingly, the operator may slide the mounting portion 40 to be withdrawn

[0444] from the base 30. Accordingly, the mounting portion 40 may be entirely exposed to the outside. Accordingly, the operator may disassemble the filter assembly 200 disposed on the mounting portion 40 and remove the filter 220 from the filter assembly 200 and clean or replace the filter.

[0445] After the cleaning or replacement of the filter 220 has been completed, the

[0446] mounting portion 40 may be again assembled to the base 30 in the reverse order of the above- described disassembling process.

[0447] In an embodiment, the dishwasher may have a structure in which the filter

[0448] assembly 200 is easily disassembled. Accordingly, the disassembling method of the dishwasher may facilitate cleaning or replacement of the filter 220. Therefore, the convenience of the work may be improved.

[0449] FIG. 19 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the filter assembly 200 of one

[0450] embodiment.

[0451] In an embodiment, a first distance D1 defined as the shortest distance between

[0452] the filter 220 and an end of the tube 320 may be greater than an inner diameter TD of the tube 320.

[0453] When the first distance D1 is greater than the inner diameter TD of the tube

[0454] 320, the washing water having the flow disturbed while flowing through the filter 220 may be changed into a stable flow state in which the flow is stable to a certain extent, and then may be introduced into the tube 320 in a relatively stable manner.

[0455] Accordingly, due to this structure, the flow resistance of the washing water in

[0456] the flow path between the tube 320 and the filter 220 may be lowered. Accordingly, the washing water may flow smoothly. In addition, this is advantageous for the maintaining of the water pressure of the washing water.

[0457] In an embodiment, the filter assembly 200 may comprise a holder 240 that is

[0458] coupled to the opening of the filter 220. The holder 240 may be disposed upstream of the filter 220 in the flow direction of the washing water in the flow path of the washing water. The holder 240 may be coupled to the filter 220 to stably couple the filter 220 to the connector 210.

[0459] In addition, the holder 240 may reinforce the rigidity of the filter 220 so that

[0460] the filter 220 is not easily deformed by the flowing washing water.

[0461] In addition, the holder 240 may prevent a gap between the connector 210 and

[0462] the filter 220 from being formed. Therefore, the holder 240 may effectively prevent the foreign substances from escaping through the gap.

[0463] The holder 240 may be mounted on the connector 210. Due to the difference

[0464] between a diameter of the large diameter portion 212 and a diameter of the variable-diameter portion 213 of the connector 210, the holder 240 may be fixed to the connector 210 in a press- fitting manner. In another embodiment, a screw thread may be formed on each of the holder 240 and a boundary between the large diameter portion 212 and the variable-diameter portion 213 of the connector 210. Accordingly, the holder 240 and the connector 210 may be screw- coupled to each other. In this manner, the holder 240 may be stably mounted on the connector 210.

[0465] The holder 240 and the filter 220 may also be coupled to each other in a

[0466] forceful fitting or screw coupling manner. A coupling structure between the holder 240 and the filter 220 will be described in detail below.

[0467] FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of the holder 240 according to an embodiment of

[0468] a portion 20 of FIG. 19. In FIG. 20, the holder 240 to which the filter 220 without the reinforcing portion 222 is coupled is illustrated.

[0469] The holder 240 may comprise a ring-shaped body 241 in which a hollow space

[0470] is formed. The holder 240 may comprise a first grip portion 242 disposed at an edge of the body 241. The first grip portion 242 may be coupled to an end portion of the filter 220. The first grip portion 242 may comprise a first recess 2421 extending in the longitudinal direction of the filter assembly 200.

[0471] The first grip portion 242 may continuously extend along the circumference

[0472] of the body 241. In another embodiment, a plurality of first grip portions 242 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the circumference of the body 241.

[0473] An end of an opened portion of the filter 220, that is, an upstream portion in

[0474] the flow direction of the washing water of the filter 220 may be formed in a ring shape. The end of the ring shape is inserted into the first recess 2421 formed in the first grip portion 242, and thus the filter 220 and the holder 240 may be coupled to each other.

[0475] The filter 220 and the holder 240 may be coupled to each other bin a force

[0476] fitting manner or a screw coupling manner.

[0477] FIG. 21 is an enlarged view of the holder 240 according to another

[0478] embodiment of a portion 21 of FIG. 19. FIG. 21 illustrates the holder 240 to which the filter 220 having the reinforcing portion 222 is coupled.

[0479] The holder 240 may comprise the ring-shaped body 241 in which a hollow

[0480] space is formed. The holder 240 may comprise a second grip portion 243 disposed at an edge of the body 241. The second grip portion 243 may be coupled to an end portion of the filter 220. The second grip portion 243 may comprise a second recess 2431 extending in the diameter direction of the body 241.

[0481] The second grip portion 243 may continuously extend along the circumference

[0482] of the body 241. In another embodiment, a plurality of second grip portions 243 may be arranged be spaced apart from each other along the circumference of the body 241.

[0483] The filter 220 has the reinforcing portion 222 formed on the end of the open

[0484] portion of the filter. The ring-shaped reinforcing portion 222 formed on the end of the filter 220 may be fitted into the second recess 2431 formed in the second grip part 243. Accordingly, the filter 220 and the holder 240 may be coupled to each other.

[0485] The reinforcing portion 222 may be coupled to the second recess 2431 of the

[0486] second grip portion 243 in a force-fitting manner.

[0487] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing the filter 220 according to still

[0488] another embodiment. In the filter 220 according to each of the following embodiments, for example, the description of contents duplicate with the above-described contents, such as the coupling structure between the filter 220 and the holder 240, may be omitted.

[0489] As shown in FIG. 22, the filter 220 may be constructed to have a conical shape

[0490] at least partially convex in a direction toward the condenser 300. The filter 220 may have a straight cross-section, for example, a "V" shape.

[0491] In such a structure, manufacturing of the filter 220 is easy, and a

[0492] manufacturing time and manufacturing cost of the filter 220 may be reduced, compared to the case where the cross section of the filter 220 is curved,

[0493] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing the filter 220 according to still yet

[0494] another embodiment.

[0495] As shown in FIG. 23, the filter 220 may comprise a disk-shaped portion 223

[0496] in which a mesh structure is formed. The filter 220 may comprise a spacing member 224 protruding from the disk-shaped portion 223 toward the tube 320. A plurality of spacing members 224 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the diameter direction of the disk-shaped portion 223.

[0497] The spacing member 224 may contact the tube 320 or the housing to maintain

[0498] a spacing between the disk-shaped portion 223 and the tube 320. Accordingly, the washing water having flowed through the disk-shaped portion 223 may be changed to a stable flow state in which the flow is somewhat stable and then may flow into the tube 320 in the stable flow state. Accordingly, the flow resistance of the washing water may be reduced.

[0499] This structure of the filter 220 may reduce the volume of each of the filter 220

[0500] and the connector 210 to increase the volume efficiency of the dishwasher. In addition, this structure of the filter 220 may be simpler than the structure of the filter 220 as described above, and thus manufacturing of the filter 220 having this structure may be easy.

[0501] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the filter 220 according to still

[0502] yet another embodiment.

[0503] As shown in FIG. 24, the filter 220 may be provided in a plate shape oriented

[0504] such that a diameter direction thereof intersects the longitudinal direction of the housing. The plate-shaped filter 220 may be formed in a disk shape having a shape corresponding to the connector 210.

[0505] The filter 220 having such a structure is the simplest and smallest in volume

[0506] compared to the filter 220 described above. Accordingly, a manufacturing time and manufacturing cost of the filter 220 may be reduced, and the volumetric efficiency of the dishwasher may be increased.

[0507] In addition, the filter 220 having such a structure may have one side in contact

[0508] with the tube 320 or the housing 310 and the other side coupled to the holder 240. Accordingly, the filter 220 may be stably fixed to the connector 210. Accordingly, the position of the filter 220 may be effectively prevented from being changed by the flow of the washing water.

[0509] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the condenser 300 and

[0510] components related thereto according to another embodiment. FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of the condenser 300 illustrated in FIG. 25. The description of the contents duplicate with those as described above will be omitted below.

[0511] As shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, the filter assembly 200 may comprise the

[0512] connector 210 having one side coupled to the housing 310 and the other side connected to a pipe connected to the washing pump 150. In addition, the filter assembly 200 may comprise the filter 220 disposed inside the connector 210.

[0513] The filter 220 may comprise a filter protrusion 225 protruding toward a

[0514] position upstream thereof in the flowing direction of the washing water. The filter 220 may comprise a filter casing 226 provided to surround the filter protrusion 225.

[0515] The filter casing 226 is generally formed in a cup shape, and a plurality of

[0516] filter protrusions 225 may be disposed inside the filter casing. The filter casing 226 may be accommodated in the connector 210, and one side thereof may face the water inlet of the tube 320. The other side of the filter casing 226 is open. The filter protrusion 225 may be accommodated in an inner space defined in the filter casing 226.

[0517] In one example, at least a portion of the filter 220 may be formed as a mesh

[0518] so that the washing water flows therethrough. The filter protrusion 225 may be provided as a mesh. Alternatively, both the filter protrusion 225 and the filter casing 226 may be provided as a mesh.

[0519] The filter protrusion 225 may be constructed such that one side thereof is open

[0520] and communicates with the water inlet of the tube 320 and the other side thereof is formed in a meshed manner. Accordingly, the washing water may flow through the mesh holes of the other side of the filter protrusion 225 and through the open side thereof and be introduced into the tube 320. Foreign substances contained in the washing water may be accumulated inside the filter casing 226 without passing through the filter protrusion 225. The foreign substances accumulated in this way may be removed by the operator disassembling the filter assembly 200 and cleaning the filter 220.

[0521] The number of the filter protrusions 225 may correspond to the number of the

[0522] plurality of tubes 320. Each of the plurality of filter protrusions 225 may be aligned with each of the plurality of tubes 320 in the length direction of the housing of the condenser. Accordingly, the washing water having flowed through the filter protrusion 225 may be directly introduced into the water inlet of the tube 320 without being subjected to great flow resistance. Due to this structure, the flow resistance of the washing water passing through the filter 220 and flowing into the tube 320 may be effectively reduced, and the washing water may flow smoothly.

[0523] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of FIG. 26.

[0524] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of some of the components as shown in FIG. 26 when being viewed in a different direction from a direction in which being viewed in FIG. 26.

[0525] The filter protrusion 225 may comprise a tip portion 225a facing a position

[0526] upstream thereof in the flowing direction of the wash water. The tip portion 225a may be

[0527] disposed at a position corresponding to the water inlet of the tube 320, that is, at an overlapping position with the position of the water inlet thereof in the flow direction of the washing water.

[0528] Accordingly, a substantial amount of the washing water may flow through the

[0529] plurality of tip portions 225a and be introduced into the tubes 320.

[0530] The entirety of the filter protrusion 225 may be formed in a mesh shape.

[0531] In another embodiment, in order to increase the rigidity of the filter protrusion

[0532] 225 and increase the convenience of the manufacturing of the filer protrusion, only the tip portion 225a at a position corresponding to a position of the water inlet of the tube 320 in the flow direction of the washing water may be formed as a mesh, and the remaining portion of the filter protrusion 225 may be formed in a closed structure in which the washing water does not flow therethrough. Even with this structure, a substantial amount of the washing water flows through the tip portion 225a, such that the flow resistance of the washing water may be very low.

[0533] The plurality of filter protrusions 225 are arranged to be spaced apart from

[0534] each other in the diameter direction of the filter casing such that a depressed space may be formed between the filter protrusions 225. Foreign substances may be accumulated in the depressed space. Even when the foreign substances are accumulated in the depressed space, the substantial amount of the washing water flows through the filter protrusion 225, such that the flow of the washing water may not be disturbed by the accumulated foreign substances.

[0535] The tip portion 225a may be constructed to have a curved surface convex

[0536] toward the position upstream thereof in the flowing direction of the washing water. Due to this structure, foreign substances may not accumulate on the upstream tip surface of the filter protrusion 225, that is, on the curved surface of the tip portion 225a positioned in the flowing direction of the washing water before the washing water flows through the tip portion 225a.

[0537] Since the curved surface of the tip portion 225a is convex toward the position

[0538] upstream thereof in the flow direction of the washing water, the curved surface of the tip portion 225a may be formed in a streamlined shape with respect to the flow of the washing water. Accordingly, when the washing water flows, foreign substances attached to the curved surface of the tip portion 225a convex toward the position upstream thereof in the flow direction of the washing water may be actively carried or washed away by the washing water. Accordingly, the

[0539] accumulation of the foreign substances on the curved surface of the tip portion 225a convex toward the position upstream thereof in the flow direction of the washing water may be effectively suppressed.

[0540] The foreign substance removed from the tip portion 225a and carried or

[0541] washed away by the washing water does not pass through the filter 220, but may be accumulated in the above-described depressed space. Since the depressed space does not interfere with the flow of the washing water, the flow resistance of the washing water due to the foreign substances accumulated in the depressed space is very low, and thus the washing water may smoothly flow through the filter 220 even when a significant amount of foreign substances are accumulated in the filter 220.

[0542] In another embodiment, the tip portion 225a may be provided in a conical

[0543] shape pointed toward the position upstream thereof in the flow direction of the washing water. This conical pointed shape may have the same effect as that of the convex curved surface.

[0544] In an embodiment, the filter 220 may comprise the filter protrusion 225. In

[0545] addition, the filter protrusion 225 may comprise the tip portion 225a and the remaining portion, wherein the tip portion 225a may be disposed upstream of the remaining portion in the flowing direction of washing water. The tip portion 225a may be provided as the curved surface convex toward the position upstream thereof in the flowing direction of the washing water.

[0546] Due to this structure, the foreign substances do not accumulate on the tip

[0547] portion 225a disposed at the position corresponding to the position the water inlet of the tube 320 in the flowing direction of the washing water, such that the washing water may smoothly flow through the filter 220 and the condenser 300 even when the foreign substances are significantly accumulated in the filter 220. This may reduce the operation failure of the dishwasher due to the clogging of the filter 220. In addition, a cleaning period at which the filter 220 and the condenser 300 are disassembled and the filter 220 is cleansed is lengthened, such that maintenance of the dishwasher may be convenient.

[0548] The present disclosure has been described above with reference to the

[0549] 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

[0550] 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 washing pump for transferring washing water;a filter assembly connected to the washing pump and positioned downstream of the washing pump in a flow direction of the washing water, wherein the filter assembly is configured to filter out foreign substances contained in the flowing washing water; anda condenser connected to the filter assembly and positioned downstream of the filter assembly in the flow direction of the washing water,wherein the filter assembly is detachably coupled to the condenser.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the condenser comprises:a housing defining an outer shape of the condenser and constructed such that the washing water and refrigerant flow separately therein; anda plurality of tubes received in the housing and arranged so as to be spaced from each other in a diameter of the housing, wherein each of the plurality of tubes extends in a longitudinal direction of the housing, wherein the washing water flows in and along the tubes.

3. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the condenser comprises:a refrigerant inlet portion protruding outwardly from the housing, wherein the refrigerant flows through the refrigerant inlet portion into the housing;a refrigerant outlet portion protruding outwardly from the housing, wherein the refrigerant is discharged from an inside of the housing through the refrigerant outlet portion; anda baffle formed inside the housing and constructed to define a flow path of the refrigerant.

4. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the filter assembly comprises:a connector having one side coupled to the housing and the other side connected to a pipe connected to the washing pump;a filter disposed inside the connector; anda clamp for detachably coupling the condenser and the connector to each other.

5. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the filter assembly comprises:a connector having one side coupled to the housing and the other side connected to a pipe connected to the washing pump; anda filter disposed inside the connector wherein the filter comprises:a filter protrusion formed to protrude toward a position upstream of the filter in a flowing direction of the washing water; anda filter casing constructed to surround the filter protrusion.

6. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein the filter protrusion is constructed such that one side thereof is opened and communicates with a water inlet of the tube, and the other side thereof is formed in a meshed structure,wherein the filter protrusion includes a plurality of filter protrusions arranged in a diameter of the filter casing,wherein each of the plurality of filter protrusions is aligned with each of the plurality of tubes in a length direction of each tube.

7. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein the filter protrusion is composed of a tip portion and a remaining portion, wherein the tip portion is positioned upstream of the remaining portion in the flowing direction of the washing water,wherein the tip portion has a curved surface convex toward a position upstream thereof in the flowing washing water.

8. The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein at least a portion of the filter is constructed to have a shape convex toward the condenser.

9. The dishwasher of claim 8, wherein the filter comprises:a mesh having at least a portion formed to be convex toward the condenser; anda reinforcing portion bent outwardly from an end of the mesh and formed in a ring shape having a predetermined width, wherein the reinforcing portion reinforces rigidity of the mesh of the filter.

10. The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein the connector comprises:a small diameter portion to which a pipe connected to the washing pump is connected;a large diameter portion connected to the condenser; anda variable-diameter portion disposed between the small diameter portion and the large diameter portion and having a diameter gradually increasing as the variable-diameter portion extends along a flow direction of washing water.

11. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the dishwasher 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 thereof opposite to the one side.

12. The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein a first distance defined as a shortest distance between the filter and an end adjacent to the filter of each of the tubes is sized to be greater than an inner diameter of each of the tubes.

13. The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein the filter assembly comprises a holder coupled to an opened portion of the filter and mounted on the connector.

14. The dishwasher of claim 13, wherein the holder comprises:a ring-shaped hollow body; anda grip portion disposed at an edge of the body and coupled to an end of the filter, wherein the grip portion has a recess defined therein and extending in a longitudinal direction of the filter assembly.

15. The dishwasher of claim 13, the holder comprises:a ring-shaped hollow body; anda grip portion disposed at an edge of the body and coupled to an end of the filter, wherein the grip portion has a recess defined therein and extending in a diameter direction of the body.

16. The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein at least a portion of the filter is constructed to have a conical shape convex toward the condenser.

17. The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein the filter comprises:a disk-shaped portion having a mesh structure; anda plurality of spacing members protruding from the disk-shaped portion toward the tubes, wherein the spacing members are arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other in a diameter direction of the disk-shaped portion.

18. The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein the filter is formed in a plate shape in which a diameter direction of the filter intersects a longitudinal direction of the tube.

19. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the dishwasher further comprises:a tub constructed to accommodate therein dishes;a base disposed under the tub;a mounting portion disposed in the base, wherein the condenser is mounted on the mounting portion;a sump mounted on the mounting portion and constructed to store therein washing water; anda lid detachably coupled to a side surface of the base and constructed to open or close an inner space of the base.

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