dishwasher

Abstract

Provided is a dishwasher configured such that an evaporator constituting a heat pump system is disposed inside a heat exchange duct constituting a heat exchange flow path, and air cooled while exchanging heat with refrigerant in the evaporator is discharged not to an accommodation space between a tub and the base but to an outside out of the base, thereby preventing deterioration of operational efficiency of the heat pump module which may be occur when the air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is re-introduced to the evaporator.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0024363, filed on February 25, 2025, and No. 10-2025-0032609, filed on March 13, 2025, and No. 10-2025-0042750, filed on April 02, 2025, and No. 10-2025-0093663, filed on July 11, 2025, which is hereby incorporated by reference as when fully set forth herein.BACKGROUNDFIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher, and more specifically, to a dishwasher configured such that an evaporator constituting a heat pump system is disposed inside a heat exchange duct constituting a heat exchange flow path, and air cooled while exchanging heat with refrigerant in the evaporator is discharged not to an accommodation space between a tub and the base but to an outside out of the base, thereby preventing deterioration of operational efficiency of the heat pump module which may be occur when the air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is re-introduced to the evaporator.DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

[0003] A dishwasher is an apparatus that washes dishes and cooking utensils as washing targets stored therein by spraying washing water thereto. In this regard, the washing water may contain washing detergent.

[0004] A dishwasher generally includes a tub having a washing space defined therein, a dish rack that accommodates therein a washing target inside the washing tub, a spraying arm that sprays the washing water into the dish rack, and a sump that stores therein water and supplies the washing water to the spraying arm.

[0005] Using this dishwasher may allow a time and effort required to wash the dishes and other washing targets after a meal to be reduced, thereby contributing to user convenience.

[0006] In washing the dish using the dishwasher, washing water and air may be heated and used to increase the washing effect. An electric heater may be used as a means of heating the washing water and air.

[0007] The dishwasher having a heat pump apparatus as another heating means instead of the electric heater has emerged.

[0008] The heat pump apparatus has significantly higher energy efficiency than that of the electric heater. Thus, when the washing water is heated by the heat pump apparatus, the consumption of electricity may be reduced compared to the electric heater.

[0009] In this regard, Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 118806186 (Prior Document 001) discloses a configuration of a dishwasher including a heat pump apparatus as a heating means for heating the washing water.[Prior Art Literature]

[0010] [Patent document]

[0011] (Patent Document 001) Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 118806186SUMMARY

[0012] However, the dishwasher disclosed in the prior art document 001 as described above is configured such that the evaporator constituting the heat pump apparatus is disposed on a bottom surface portion of the base in a state in which the evaporator is entirely exposed to an accommodation space of the base.

[0013] Accordingly, as the air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator constituting the heat pump apparatus of the prior document 001 is re-introduced into a blower fan, there is a concern that the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator may deteriorate, and accordingly, the overall operation efficiency of the heat pump apparatus may deteriorate.

[0014] In addition, accordingly, there is a possibility that the air cooled while exchanging the heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator constituting the heat pump apparatus in the prior document 001 flows toward the sump, the washing pump, and the tub, thereby at least partially cooling the sump, the washing pump, and the tub, and accordingly, the washing water temperature and the tub temperature are lowered to a value lower than an appropriate level when the washing cycle and the heating rinsing cycle are performed, thereby deteriorating washing efficiency.

[0015] In addition, the dishwasher disclosed in the prior art document 001 as described above is configured such that a plurality of blower fans and a plurality of fan motors are disposed in front of the evaporator in order to increase heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator constituting the heat pump apparatus.

[0016] Therefore, the plurality of blower fans and the plurality of fan motors are received in the accommodation space formed between the tub and the base, such that there may be a problem in that the spatial efficiency of the accommodation space is deteriorated.

[0017] Furthermore, the dishwasher disclosed in the prior document 001 is configured such that the compressor acting as a heat generation component and the main control panel are disposed in the base and adjacent to each other.

[0018] In this regard, the dishwasher disclosed in prior document 001 does not include a means for preventing overheating that may occur when the compressor and the main control panel are disposed close to each other, there is a problem that there is a high risk of overheating the compressor and the main control panel.

[0019] The present disclosure has been devised to solve the problems of the prior art as described above. Thus, a first purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that an evaporator constituting a heat pump system is disposed inside a heat exchange duct constituting a heat exchange flow path, and air cooled while exchanging heat with refrigerant in the evaporator is discharged not to an accommodation space between a tub and the base but to an outside out of the base, thereby preventing deterioration of operational efficiency of the heat pump module which may be occur when the air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is re-introduced to the evaporator.

[0020] In addition, a second purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that the air cooled while exchanging heat with refrigerant in the evaporator constituting the heat pump apparatus does not flow toward the sump, the washing pump, and the tub, thereby preventing deterioration of washing performance, which may otherwise occur while the cooled air cools down the sump, the washing pump, and the tub.

[0021] In addition, a third purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that a blower module for generating an airflow of air to be subjected to the heat-exchange with refrigerant in the evaporator is configured to include only a single blower fan and a single blower motor, thereby minimizing a space occupied with the blower module in the accommodation space and preventing deterioration in space utilization due to the occupied space.

[0022] In addition, a fourth purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that at least a portion of airflow flowing into the evaporator flows on and along the compressor acting as the heat generation component, thereby effectively preventing overheating of the compressor and improving heat exchange efficiency of the condenser.

[0023] In addition, a fifth purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a dishwasher configured such that an air inlet of an air guide for guiding the flow direction of the airflow so that the airflow flowing into the evaporator is directed toward the compressor is formed so as to be open toward the main control panel or so as to be close to the main control panel, thereby effectively preventing overheating that may occur when the compressor and the main control panel are disposed close to each other.

[0024] The purposes of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned purposes, and other purposes and advantages of the present disclosure that are not mentioned may be understood based on the following descriptions, and will be more clearly understood based on the embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, it will be readily appreciated that the purposes and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized by means indicated in the claims and combinations thereof.

[0025] A dishwasher according to the present disclosure comprises: a tub having a washing space defined therein and accommodating dishes therein; a base disposed under the tub; a sump disposed between the base and the tub and configured to store therein washing water to be supplied to the tub; and a heat pump module disposed between the base and the tub and configured to heat washing water to be supplied to the sump, wherein the heat pump module includes: a compressor configured to compress refrigerant; a condenser configured to receive the refrigerant having flowed through the compressor and to heat the washing water to be supplied to the sump; an evaporator configured to receive the refrigerant having flowed through the condenser; and a heat exchange duct constructed to accommodate the evaporator therein and to have a passage defined therein, wherein airflow to be subjected to heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator flows through the passage.

[0026] Further, the heat pump module may further include a blower module configured to blow air to generate the airflow to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator, wherein the heat exchange duct may include: a first duct portion accommodating therein the evaporator; and a second duct portion accommodating therein the blower module.

[0027] Further, the first duct portion may be disposed in rear of the second duct portion.

[0028] Further, in a view of the dishwasher in a direction perpendicular to a flow direction of the airflow, a cross-sectional area size of the first duct portion may be larger than a cross-sectional area size of the second duct portion.

[0029] Further, the heat exchange duct may further include a third duct portion disposed between the first duct portion and the second duct portion.

[0030] Further, in a view of the dishwasher in a direction perpendicular to a flow direction of the airflow, a cross-sectional area size of a front end surface of the third duct portion may be sized to be smaller than a cross-sectional area size of a rear end surface of the third duct portion.

[0031] Further, in a view of the dishwasher in a direction perpendicular to the flow direction of the airflow, a cross-sectional area size of the third duct portion may gradually increase as the third duct portion extends from a front end of the third duct portion toward a rear end of the third duct portion

[0032] Further, the third duct portion may be integrally formed with and connected to each of the first duct portion and the second duct portion.

[0033] Further, the blower module may include: a blower fan configured to accelerate the air to generate the airflow; and a blower motor for generating a rotational driving force to drive the blower fan, wherein the blower fan consists of a single blower fan, wherein the blower motor consists of a single blower motor.

[0034] Further, the blower fan may be embodied as an axial flow fan.

[0035] Further, the heat exchange duct may be disposed to be in close contact with an inner side surface of a rear wall of the base.

[0036] Further, an air outlet formed to pass through the rear wall of the base in the front-rear direction may be disposed at a position where the heat exchange duct is disposed to be in close contact with the rear wall of the base, wherein the airflow of the air subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator may be exhausted through the air outlet out of the heat exchange duct.

[0037] Further, the compressor may be disposed between the evaporator and one sidewall of the base and may be disposed in front of the evaporator.

[0038] Further, at least a portion of the compressor may be disposed in front of an air intake port of the heat exchange duct in a front-rear direction.

[0039] Further, the compressor may be constructed such that a volume of a portion of the compressor disposed in front of the air intake port of the heat exchange duct is larger than a volume of a portion thereof disposed in rear of the air intake port of the heat exchange duct.

[0040] Further, the heat pump module may further include an air guide constructed to guide a flow direction of the airflow so that at least a portion of the airflow to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator flows on and along the compressor and then is introduced into the air intake port of the heat exchange duct.

[0041] Further, the air guide may include: an upper wall disposed at a position spaced apart from the compressor in an upward direction; and a rear wall disposed at a position spaced rearwardly from the compressor; wherein the upper wall may be connected to an upper end of the heat exchange duct, wherein the rear wall may be connected to an outer peripheral surface of the heat exchange duct.

[0042] Further, the dishwasher may further comprise a main control panel configured to control power to be supplied to the compressor to control an operation of the compressor, wherein the air guide may have an air inlet through which the airflow to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator is introduced, wherein the air inlet may be opened toward the main control panel.

[0043] Further, the air guide may have an air inlet through which the airflow to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator is introduced, wherein the air inlet may be opened in a frontward direction.

[0044] Further, the blower module may include: a blower fan configured to accelerate the air to generate the airflow; and a blower motor for generating a rotational driving force to drive the blower fan, wherein the blower fan may be embodied as a centrifugal fan and may be accommodated in the air guide.

[0045] The dishwasher according to the present disclosure is configured such that the evaporator constituting the heat pump system is disposed inside the heat exchange duct constituting a heat exchange flow path, and air cooled while exchanging heat with refrigerant in the evaporator is discharged not to the accommodation space between the tub and the base but to an outside out of the base, thereby preventing deterioration of operational efficiency of the heat pump module which may be occur when the air cooled while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator is re-introduced to the evaporator.

[0046] In addition, the dishwasher according to the present disclosure is configured such that the air cooled while exchanging heat with refrigerant in the evaporator constituting the heat pump apparatus does not flow toward the sump, the washing pump, and the tub, thereby preventing deterioration of washing performance, which may otherwise occur while the cooled air cools down the sump, the washing pump, and the tub.

[0047] In addition, the dishwasher according to the present disclosure is configured such that the blower module for generating an airflow of air to be subjected to the heat-exchange with refrigerant in the evaporator is configured to include only a single blower fan and a single blower motor, thereby minimizing a space occupied with the blower module in the

[0048] accommodation space and preventing deterioration in space utilization due to the occupied space.

[0049] In addition, the dishwasher according to the present disclosure is configured such that at least a portion of airflow flowing into the evaporator flows on and along the compressor acting as the heat generation component, thereby effectively preventing overheating of the compressor and improving heat exchange efficiency of the condenser.

[0050] In addition, the dishwasher according to the present disclosure is configured such that the air inlet of the air guide for guiding the flow direction of the airflow so that the airflow flowing into the evaporator is directed toward the compressor is formed so as to be open toward the main control panel or so as to be close to the main control panel, thereby effectively preventing overheating that may occur when the compressor and the main control panel are disposed close to each other.

[0051] In addition to the above-described effects, specific effects of the present disclosure will be described together while describing specific matters for implementing the present disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0052] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dishwasher shown in FIG. 1.

[0054] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view illustrating a state in which a door of the dishwasher illustrated in FIG. 1 is opened.

[0055] FIG. 4 is a schematic view for illustrating a configuration of a heat pump module provided in a dishwasher according to the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating a state in which a heat pump module constituting a dishwasher according to the present disclosure is mounted in a base.

[0057] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the heat pump module illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0058] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a heat exchange duct, an evaporator, and a blower module illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0059] FIGS. 8 and 9 are a front perspective view and a plan view showing a state in which a duct cover among the components shown in FIG. 7 is removed.

[0060] FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view illustrating a state in which an air outlet through which airflow of air having flowed through the heat exchange duct shown in FIG. 9 is exhausted is formed in a rear wall of the base.

[0061] FIG. 11 is a front perspective view illustrating a configuration in which a rearward extension portion is added to a first cover portion constituting a duct cover.

[0062] FIG. 12 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the configuration shown in FIG. 11.

[0063] FIGS. 13 and 14 are front perspective views of a heat pump module including an air guide according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of a heat pump module including an air guide according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIGS. 16 and 17 are front perspective views of a heat pump module including an air guide according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] FIGS. 18 and 19 are front perspective views and plan views illustrating a state in which the heat pump module illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17 is mounted in a base.

[0067] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of a heat pump module including an air guide according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS

[0068] The above-mentioned purpose, features and advantages are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Accordingly, a person skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs will be able to easily implement the technical idea of the present disclosure. In describing the present disclosure, upon determination that a detailed description of the known technology related to the present disclosure may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure, the detailed description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the drawings, identical reference numerals are used to indicate identical or similar components.

[0069] It will be understood that, although the terms "first", "second", "third", and so on may be used herein to describe various elements, components, areas, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, areas, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, area, layer or section from another element, component, area, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, area, layer or section described below could be termed a second element, component, area, layer or section, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0070] The terminology used herein is directed to the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular constitutes "a" and "an" are intended to include the plural constitutes as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0071] It will also be understood that when a first element or layer is referred to as being present "on" a second element or layer, the first element may be disposed directly on the second element or may be disposed indirectly on the second element with a third element or layer being disposed between the first and second elements or layers. It will also be understood that when a first element or layer is referred to as being present "under" a second element or layer, the first element may be disposed directly under the second element or may be disposed indirectly under the second element with a third element or layer being disposed between the first and second elements or layers.

[0072] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "connected to", or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly connected to or coupled to another element or layer, or one or more intervening elements or layers therebetween may be present. In addition, it will also be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements or layers, it may be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or one or more intervening elements or layers therebetween may also be present.

[0073] It will be further understood that the terms "comprise", "comprising", "include", and "including" when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, operations, elements, components, and / or portions thereof. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of associated listed items. Expression such as "at least one of" when preceding a list of elements may modify the entire list of elements and may not modify the individual elements of the list. In interpretation of numerical values, an error or tolerance therein may occur even when there is no explicit description thereof.

[0074] Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,”“below,”“lower,”“under,”“above,”“upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of explanation to describe one element or feature’s relationship to another element or feature as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or in operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, when the device in the drawings may be turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” or “under” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example terms “below” and “under” may encompass both an orientation of above and subsequent drawings thereto. The device may be otherwise oriented for example, rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations, and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0075] As used herein, “A and / or B” means A, B or A and B, unless specifically stated otherwise. Expression such as "at least one of" when preceding a list of elements may modify the entirety of list of elements and may not modify the individual elements of the list. As used herein, "C to D" means C inclusive to D inclusive unless otherwise specified.

[0076] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described with reference to drawings showing a configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.Overall structure of dishwasher

[0077] Hereinafter, an overall structure of a dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0078] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view showing the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a simplified cross-sectional view briefly showing an internal structure of the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a front perspective view illustrating a state in which a door 30 of the dishwasher illustrated in FIG. 1 is opened.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3, the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may include a casing 10 that constitutes an outer appearance.

[0080] For example, the casing 10 may include an upper panel 11, a left side panel 12, and a right side panel 13 respectively defining an upper surface, a left surface, and a right surface of the outer appearance of the dishwasher 1.

[0081] The upper panel 11, the left side panel 12, and the right side panel 13 may be integrally formed with each other or may be individually formed and assembled with each other.

[0082] In addition, the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may include a tub 20 installed in an inner space of the casing 10 and having a washing space 21 defined therein where the washing target is washed, wherein a front surface of the tub is open.

[0083] In addition, the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may include a door 30 that opens / closes the open front surface of the tub 20.

[0084] In addition, the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may include a base 90 disposed under the tub 2 and serving to support the tub 2.

[0085] In addition, the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may include a driver 40 located under the tub 20 to supply, collect, circulate, and discharge the washing water for washing the washing target.

[0086] In addition, the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may include a dish rack set 50 removably provided in the inner washing space 21 of the tub 20 to receive therein the washing target.

[0087] In addition, the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may include a water sprayer installed adjacent to the dish rack set 50 to spray the washing water for washing the washing target thereto.

[0088] In this regard, the washing target received in the dish rack set 50 may be, for example, dishes such as bowls, plates, spoons, and chopsticks, and other cooking utensils. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the washing target will be referred to as a dish.

[0089] First, the tub 20 may be formed in a box shape with an entirely open front surface, and have a configuration of a so-referred to as washing tub.

[0090] The washing space 21 may be defined inside the tub 20. The open front surface of the tub 20 may be opened / closing by the door 30.

[0091] The tub 20 may be formed via pressing of a metal plate resistant to high temperature and moisture, for example, a stainless steel plate.

[0092] Moreover, on an inner surface of the tub 20, a plurality of brackets may be disposed for the purpose of supporting and installing functional components such as the dish rack set 50 and the water sprayer which will be described later thereon within the tub 20.

[0093] In one example, the driver 40 may include a sump 41 that stores therein washing water. Further, the driver 40 may include a sump cover 42 that distinguishes the sump 41 from the tub 20. Further, the driver 40 may include a water supply 43 that supplies washing water from an external source to the sump 41. Further, the driver 40 may include a water discharger 44 that discharges the washing water of the sump 41 to an outside. Further, the driver 40 may include a washing pump 45 and a supply flow path 46 that supply the washing water of the sump 41 to the water sprayer.

[0094] The sump cover 42 may be disposed at a top of the sump 41 and may serve to spatially distinguish the tub 20 and the sump 41 from each other.

[0095] Moreover, the sump cover 42 may have a plurality of collecting holes defined therein for collecting washing water sprayed into the washing space 21 through the water sprayer into the sump 41.

[0096] That is, the washing water sprayed from the water sprayer toward the dish may fall down to a bottom of the washing space 21, and may be collected again through the sump cover 42 and into the sump 41.

[0097] The washing pump 45 may be disposed at one side of the sump 41 and may serve to pressurize the washing water and supply the pressurized washing water to the water sprayer.

[0098] One end of the washing pump 45 may be connected to the sump 41 and the other end thereof may be connected to the supply flow path 46.

[0099] The washing pump 45 may be equipped with an impeller 451 and a motor 453. When electric power is supplied to the motor 453, the impeller 451 may rotate, and thus the washing water in the sump 41 may be pressurized, and then may be supplied to the water sprayer through the supply flow path 46.

[0100] Although not shown, a washing water heater may be provided in the washing pump 45 and be configured to heat the wash water supplied to the tub 20 during a washing cycle or a heat rinsing cycle.

[0101] In one example, the supply flow path 46 may serve to selectively supply the washing water supplied from the washing pump 45 to the water sprayer.

[0102] For example, the supply flow path 46 may include a first supply flow path 461 connected to a lower spraying arm 61, and a second supply flow path 463 connected to an upper spraying arm 62 and a top nozzle 63.

[0103] The supply flow path 46 may be provided with a supply flow path switching valve 465 that selectively opens / closes the supply flow paths 461 and 463.

[0104] In this regard, the supply flow path switching valve 465 may be controlled so that the supply flow paths 461 and 463 are opened sequentially or simultaneously.

[0105] In one example, the water sprayer may be constructed to spray the washing water to the dishes stored in the dish rack set 50.

[0106] More specifically, the water sprayer may include the lower spraying arm 61 located under the tub 20 to spray the washing water to a lower dish rack 51.

[0107] Further, the water sprayer may include the upper spraying arm 62 located between the lower dish rack 51 and an upper dish rack 52 to spray the washing water to the lower dish rack 51 and the upper dish rack 52.

[0108] Further, the water sprayer may include the top nozzle 63 located on top of the tub 20 to spray the washing water to a top dish rack 53 or the upper dish rack 52.

[0109] In particular, the lower spraying arm 61 and the upper spraying arm 62 may be rotatably disposed in the washing space 21 of the tub 20 and may spray the washing water toward the dish of the dish rack set 50 while being rotating.

[0110] The lower spraying arm 61 may be rotatably supported on a top of the sump cover 42 so as to spray the washing water toward the lower dish rack 51 while being rotating and being disposed under the lower dish rack 51.

[0111] Moreover, the upper spraying arm 62 may be rotatably supported by a spraying arm holder 467 so as to spray the washing water on the dish while being rotating and being disposed between the lower dish rack 51 and the upper dish rack 52.

[0112] In one example, although not shown, in order to increase washing efficiency, additional means for diverting the washing water sprayed from the lower spraying arm 61 into an upward direction (diverting in a U-direction) may be provided at a lower wall 25 of the tub 20.

[0113] A detailed configuration of the water sprayer has been already known in the art. Thus, a description of the specific configuration of the water sprayer will be omitted below.

[0114] The dish rack 50 for storing the dish therein may be disposed in the washing space 21.

[0115] The dish rack 50 may be constructed to extend or retract from or into the inner space of the tub 20 through the open front surface of the tub 20.

[0116] For example, in FIG. 2, an embodiment is shown in which the dish rack 50 is configured to include a lower dish rack 51 located at a lower portion of the tub 20 to accommodate therein relatively large dishes, an upper dish rack 5 located on top of the lower dish rack 51 to accommodate therein medium-sized dishes, and a top dish rack 53 located at a top level of the tub 20 and capable of storing therein small dishes, etc.

[0117] Hereinafter, an example in which the dishwasher 1 includes the three dish racks 50 as shown is described. However, embodiments of present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0118] Each of the lower dish rack 51, the upper dish rack 52, and the top dish rack 53 may be constructed to extend or retract from or into the inner space of the tub 20 through the open front surface of the tub 20.

[0119] For this purpose, guide rails 54 may be respectively disposed on both opposing inner side surfaces 26 and 27 constituting the inner side surface of the tub 20. As will be described below, by way of example, the guide rails 54 may include an upper rail 542, a lower rail 541, and a top rail 543.

[0120] Wheels or rollers may be disposed on a bottom of each of the lower dish rack 51, the upper dish rack 52, and the top dish rack 53. The user may extend the lower dish rack 51, the upper dish rack 52, and the top dish rack 53 from the inner space of the tub 20 through the open front surface of the tub 20 and may place the dishes thereon, or easily withdraw the dishes that have been washed out thereof.

[0121] The guide rail 54 may be embodied as a simple rail-type fixed guide rail to guide the extending or the retracting of the dish rack 50, or a telescopic guide rail capable of guiding the extending or the retracting of the dish rack 50 and at the same time, increasing an extension distance thereof as the dish rack 50 further extends from the inner space of the tub.

[0122] In one example, the door 30 is constructed to open / close the open front surface of the tub 20 as described above.

[0123] A hinge (not shown) around which the door 30 pivots to open or close the tub 20 may be provided at a bottom of the open front surface. By way of example, the door 30 may pivot around the hinge as a pivot axis in a top-down manner to open the tub 20.

[0124] In this regard, a handle 31 for opening the door 30 and a control panel 32 for controlling an operation of the dishwasher 1 may be disposed on an outer side surface of the door 30.

[0125] As shown, the control panel 32 may include a display 33 that visually displays information regarding a current operating status of the dishwasher 1, etc.

[0126] Further, the control panel 32 may include a button unit 34 including a selection button through which a user's course selection manipulation is input and an electric power button through which a user's manipulation for turning the dishwasher on and off is input.

[0127] In one example, a rear panel constituting an inner side surface of the door 30 may constitute one surface of the tub 20 when the door 30 has been closed, and may constitute a seat surface on which the lower dish rack 51 of the dish rack set 50 is supported when the door 30 is fully opened.

[0128] For this purpose, when the door 30 is fully opened downwardly, the rear panel of the door 30 may constitute a horizontal plane extending in the same direction as a direction in which the guide rail 54 guiding the displacement of the lower dish rack 51 extends.

[0129] In one example, although not shown, a detergent supply device for automatically supplying detergent into the inside of the tub 20 may be further installed on the rear panel constituting an inner side surface of the door 30.

[0130] Furthermore, a door position sensor 36​​may be disposed on an outer top surface of the tub 20 and may be configured to detect whether the door 30 is in a closed or open state. For example, the door position sensor 36 ​​may include a door position sensor S_d or a latch sensor that detects a position of a door latch (not shown).

[0131] In one example, a drying air supply 80 may be disposed under the tub 20 and may be configured to generate and supply high-temperature or low-temperature drying air to the washing space 21 inside the tub 20.

[0132] As shown, the drying air supply 80 may be configured to include a filter member 883 for filtering outside air, a blower fan 825 for generating a drying air stream, a heater 84 for heating the drying air stream, and an air stream guide 83 disposed inside the tub 20 so as to guide the drying air stream.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 3, a drying air supply hole 254 may be defined in a bottom wall 25 of the tub 20 so that high-temperature drying air generated by the drying air supply 80 may be introduced into the inside of the tub 20 through the drying air supply hole.

[0134] Thus, the high-temperature drying air or low-temperature drying air may be supplied from the drying air supply 80 into the inside of the tub 20 during the drying cycle S5 such that the drying efficiency and sterilization effect of the dishes may be significantly improved compared to a conventional dishwasher.

[0135] In one example, the dishwasher may be configured such that a portion of the airflow supplied to the inside of the tub 20 and moistened while drying the dishes may be discharged to the outside, while the remaining portion thereof may be suctioned into the drying air supply 80. The discharge of the airflow may be achieved via partial opening of the door 30 or via a separate air discharge means (not shown).

[0136] An air intake duct 81 for collecting the wet air from the tub 20 may be disposed on an outer surface of a left wall 26 or a right wall 27 of the tub 20.

[0137] In one example, the base 90 may provide an accommodation space in which components of the dishwasher 1 such as the sump 41 are accommodated.

[0138] To this end, the base 90 may include a front wall, a rear wall, a left wall, and a right wall defining an outer boundary surface of the accommodation space.

[0139] Furthermore, the tub 20 may be directly or indirectly supported by the front wall, the rear wall, the left wall, and the right wall of the base 90.

[0140] In one example, the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may further include a heat pump system as a means for heating the washing water to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0141] The heat pump system may be provided together with the above-described washing water heater, or may be provided alone while the washing water heater is absent.

[0142] As will be described later, the heat pump system provided in the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may be disposed in the inner space of the base 90 in a modularized state.

[0143] In addition, the heat pump system may be configured to be modularized into a single module which may be entirely and at-once received into and removed out of the base 90.

[0144] In consideration of this configuration, the heat pump system provided in the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure will be referred to as a heat pump module 100.

[0145] A detailed configuration of the heat pump module 100 will be described later with reference to FIG. 4.Schematic Configuration of Heat Pump Apparatus

[0146] Hereinafter, a detailed configuration of the heat pump module 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 4.

[0147] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram schematically showing the configuration of the heat pump module 100.

[0148] Referring to FIG. 4, the heat pump module 100 may include a compressor 110, a condenser 120, an expansion valve 140, and an evaporator 130.

[0149] The compressor 110, the condenser 120, the expansion valve 140, and the evaporator 130 may be sequentially connected to each other via the refrigerant pipe 150, and the refrigerant pipe 150 provides the refrigerant flow path through which the refrigerant may flow.

[0150] By way of example, the refrigerant pipe 150 may include a first pipe 151 connecting the compressor 110 and the condenser 120 to each other, a second pipe 152 connecting the condenser 120 and the expansion valve 140 to each other, a third pipe 153 connecting the expansion valve 140 and the evaporator 130 to each other, and a fourth pipe 154 connecting the evaporator 130 and the compressor 110 to each other.

[0151] The refrigerant may function as a working fluid that absorbs heat or releases heat while sequentially circulating through the compressor 110, the condenser 120, the expansion valve 140, and the evaporator 130 such that the phase thereof changes from liquid to gas, or from gas to liquid.

[0152] The compressor 110 serves to compress the refrigerant and discharge the refrigerant in a high-temperature and high-pressure state. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 110 may be introduced into the condenser 120 through the first pipe 151.

[0153] The refrigerant may radiate heat of QH while flowing through the condenser 120. The heat discharged from the condenser 120 may be used to heat the washing water to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0154] Accordingly, each of flow paths through which each of the refrigerant and the washing water flow may be provided in the condenser 120. The refrigerant may discharge the heat such that the phase changes from gas to a liquid state and thus the refrigerant may exchange the heat with the washing water while flowing through the condenser 120.

[0155] In this regard, the refrigerant having flowed through the condenser 120 may be a mixed gas of a liquid having a very small gas content and a gas, or may be a subcooled liquid.

[0156] The refrigerant discharged from the condenser 120 may be expanded while flowing through the expansion valve 140. As a result of the expansion of the refrigerant, the temperature of the refrigerant may be lowered, and thus, the refrigerant may become a mixed gas in which the gas and the liquid are mixed with each other.

[0157] The refrigerant discharged from the expansion valve 140 is introduced into the evaporator 130 through the third pipe 153, and exchanges heat with the air in the accommodation space of the base 90 while flowing through the evaporator 130 to absorb heat of QL from the air such that the refrigerant is evaporated, thereby increasing a content of gas in the refrigerant.

[0158] In a state in which the refrigerant has flowed out of the evaporator 130, the refrigerant may become a mixed gas having a very small content of the liquid or a superheated gas.

[0159] The refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 130 may be introduced into the compressor 110 again through the fourth pipe 154, and may be compressed in the compressor 110 such that the refrigerant may be converted into a high-temperature and high-pressure gas. Meanwhile, in order to prevent the refrigerant in the liquid state discharged from the evaporator 130 from being introduced into the compressor, the refrigerant having flowed through the fourth pipe 154 may flow through a gas-liquid separator 113 and then be introduced into the compressor 110.

[0160] In this order, the refrigerant circulates through the heat pump module 100 to undergo the phase change, and accordingly, the refrigerant may absorb the heat in the evaporator 130 and discharge the heat in the condenser 120.

[0161] In one example, in order to increase the heat exchange efficiency in the evaporator 130, it is preferable to allow a large amount of air to flow toward the evaporator 130. To this end, the heat pump module 100 may further include a blower module 180 for blowing the air toward the evaporator 130 to generate the airflow.

[0162] As will be described later, the blower module 180 may include, for example, a blower fan 181 configured to accelerate the air to generate the airflow, and a blower motor 182 configured to generate a rotational driving force to rotate the blower fan 181.

[0163] In addition, as will be described later, the blower fan 181 and the blower motor 182 together with the evaporator 130 may be accommodated in a heat exchange duct 170 constituting a passage through which the airflow to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator 130 flows.

[0164] In one example, the heat pump module 100 of the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may be constructed to be directly installed in the base 90 or to be modularized into a single module separately from the base 90 and the single module may be entirely and at-once installed in the accommodation space of the base 90 and be entirely and at-once removed from the accommodation space of the base 90 to the outside.

[0165] In FIG. 5 and subsequent drawings thereto, a configuration in which the heat pump module 100 is modularized into a single module separately from the base 90 and the single module is entirely and at-once installed in the accommodation space of the base 90 and is entirely and at-once removed from the accommodation space of the base 90 to the outside is illustrated.

[0166] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described based on the illustrated configuration. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0167] In order that the heat pump module 100 is modularized into a single module separately from the base 90 and the single module is entirely and at-once installed in the accommodation space of the base 90 and is entirely and at-once removed from the accommodation space of the base 90 to the outside, the heat pump module 100 may include a module base 160 on which at least the compressor 110, the condenser 120, the evaporator 130, and the expansion valve 140 are collectively installed.

[0168] The compressor 110, the condenser 120, the evaporator 130, and the expansion valve 140 constituting the heat pump module 100 may be mounted in the base 90 in a state of being directly fastened to the module base 160 and directly supported by the module base 160.

[0169] As will be described below, the module base 160 may be disposed to be in surface contact with a bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90, and may be disposed on the base 90 so as to be directly supported by the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0170] Accordingly, the compressor 110, the condenser 120, the evaporator 130, and the expansion valve 140 constituting the heat pump module 100 may be directly mounted onto the module base 160 disposed in the base 90 and thus may be indirectly installed in the accommodation space of the base 90 and be indirectly supported thereon.

[0171] In one example, the heat pump module 100 of the dishwasher 1 according to the present disclosure may be constructed to be entirely and at-once be inserted into and withdrawn out of the base 90 through one open side surface of the base 90 so as to be entirely and at-once installed in the accommodation space of the base 90 and to be entirely and at-once removed from the accommodation space of the base 90 to the outside,.

[0172] As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 5, a water jacket 71 may be attached to an outer side surface of the right wall 27 of the example tub 20. The washing water to be supplied to the washing space of the tub 20 during washing and rinsing of the dishes may be stored in the water jacket 71

[0173] In order to secure the sufficient water storage capacity of the water jacket 71, a lower end of the water jacket 71 may extend inwardly beyond a lower end the lower wall 25 of the tub 20 to an area of a right side surface 95 of the base 90.

[0174] In this regard, a tub hole 118 communicating an inner space of the water jacket with the washing space 21 of the tub 20 may be formed in the water jacket 71.

[0175] A water jacket communication hole 272 may be formed to pass through the right wall 27 of the tub 20 in a corresponding manner to the tub hole 118.

[0176] A grill cap 118a having a shape similar to that of a grill cap 813 of an air intake hole 271 may be coupled to the tub hole 118 in order to minimize the inflow of the washing water and prevent the inflow of foreign substances.

[0177] In addition, the water softener device 72 for softening the washing water to be supplied to the sump 41 may be installed at a position adjacent to the water jacket 71 and be disposed under the lower wall 25 of the tub 20.

[0178] In addition, as described above, the drying air supply 80 may be disposed under the lower wall 25 of the tub 20 to heat the air discharged from the tub 20 and resupply the heated air to the tub 20 when the drying cycle is performed.

[0179] In addition, as illustrated, the drying air supply 80 may include the air intake duct 81 for suctioning the air discharged from the tub 20.

[0180] FIG. 3 shows an example configuration in which the air intake duct 81 and the water jacket 71 are arranged side by side while the air intake duct 81 is disposed on the outer surface of the right wall 27 of the tub 20.

[0181] Accordingly, the air intake hole 271 may be formed to pass through the right wall 27 of the tub 20, and a grill cap 8113 coupled to an inlet of the air intake duct 81 may be fixed to the air intake hole 271.

[0182] In consideration of the positional constraint under which the drying air supply 80, the air intake duct 81 of the drying air supply 80, the water jacket 71 and the water softening device 72 are positioned as described above, it is preferable that the heat pump module 100 is constructed to extend from or retract into the inner space of the base 90 through an open area positioned such that the interference of the heat pump module 100 with the drying air supply 80, the water jacket 71 and the water softening device 72 is minimized. To this end, the heat pump module 100 may be constructed to extend from or retract into the accommodation space of the base through the open left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0183] However, this is merely exemplary. When the drying air supply 80, the air intake duct 81 of the drying air supply 80, the water jacket 71, and the water softener device 72 are disposed in proximity to the right wall 27 of the tub 20 and the right side surface 95 of the base 90 and thus are positioned at the left side around a center of the sump 41, the heat pump module 100 may be configured to extend from and retract into the base 90 through an open right side surface 95 of the base 90.

[0184] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described, by way of example, based on embodiments in which the heat pump module 100 is configured to extend from and retract into the base through the open left wall 94 of the base 90. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.Modularized Structure of Heat Pump Module

[0185] Hereinafter, an example position of the heat pump module 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and an example arrangement structure of the components thereof will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0186] The heat pump module 100 according to the present disclosure may include the compressor 110 that compresses the refrigerant and discharges the refrigerant in a high temperature and high pressure state.

[0187] As illustrated, the compressor 110 constituting the heat pump module 100 may be embodied as a motor-integrated electric compressor in which a compression unit for compressing the refrigerant in a gaseous state and a motor for generating a rotational driving force to be provided to the compression unit are integrated with each other.

[0188] In this regard, it is necessary to minimize a horizontal area occupied with the compressor 110 on the module base 160 in consideration of the space utilization of the accommodation space of the base 90.

[0189] To this end, the compressor 110 may be disposed on the module base 160 in a standing state in which a rotation axis thereof extends in the up-down direction (U-D direction).

[0190] A fastening tab 112 provided in a flange shape may be provided at a lower end of a compressor body 111 of the compressor 110 such that the compressor body may be installed on and fixed to the module base 160 in the standing state.

[0191] In the illustrated embodiment, a total of three fastening tabs 112 are provided, and a configuration in which the fastening tabs 112 are arranged so as to be spaced from each other by an equal spacing is illustrated. However, this is merely an example, and the number of fastening tabs 112 may be set to vary according to the shape and position of the compressor 110.

[0192] A fastening boss (164 in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9) may be integrally formed with and be disposed on a base plate 161 of the module base 160 and be positioned in a corresponding manner to the fastening tab 112 of the compressor 110.

[0193] The fastening tab 112 of the compressor 110 may be firmly fastened to the fastening boss 164 of the base plate 161 via a fastening means such as a screw bolt or the like.

[0194] In order to reduce vibration or noise generated by the compressor 110, a bumper having a predetermined elasticity may be disposed between the fastening tab 112 and the fastening boss.

[0195] In one example, the compressor 110 may be disposed between the main control panel 210 and the evaporator 130 in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0196] More specifically, the compressor 110 may be disposed in a space formed between the blower module 180 accommodated in the heat exchange duct 170 and the main control panel 210 and be positioned as close as possible to an air intake port 170a of the heat exchange duct 170.

[0197] Thus, the compressor 110 may be exposed to the airflow flowing into the air intake port 170a of the heat exchange duct 170, and thus the cooling effect of the compressor 110 may be improved. Furthermore, as the airflow of the air heated while flowing on and along the compressor 110 is introduced into the heat exchange duct 170, the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator 130 may be further improved compared to the related art.

[0198] In this regard, in order to increase the exposed area of the compressor to the airflow F_in to be heat-exchanged, at least a portion of the compressor 110 may protrude in the frontward direction beyond the air intake port 170a of the heat exchange duct 170 in the front-rear direction (F-R direction).

[0199] In more detail, a volume of the portion of the compressor 110 protruding in the frontward direction beyond the air intake port 170a of the heat exchange duct 170 may be set to be greater than a volume of a portion of the compressor 110 protruding in the rearward direction beyond the air intake port 170a of the heat exchange duct 170.

[0200] In addition, as will be described later, the dishwasher may further include an air guide 173 as a means for guiding the flow direction of the airflow F_in to increase the proportion of the airflow F_in flowing on and along the compressor 110 relative to a total amount of the airflow F_in flowing into the heat exchange duct 170.

[0201] In addition, the compressor 110 needs to be disposed at a position at which interference of the compressor with the sump 41 is minimized and the influence of the water leakage from the sump 41 and the washing pump 45 on the compressor is minimized.

[0202] To this end, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the compressor 110 may be disposed in rear of the sump 41 and the washing pump 45.

[0203] In addition, the compressor 110 may be disposed so as not to overlap the sump 41 and the washing pump 45 in the up-down direction (U-D direction).

[0204] In one example, the heat pump module 100 may include the condenser 120 that performs heat exchange between the refrigerant and the washing water.

[0205] By way of example, the condenser 120 constituting the heat pump module 100 may be constructed in the form of a double pipe in which a flow path of the washing water and a flow path of the refrigerant are formed together.

[0206] The condenser 120 may be constructed to have a cylindrical outer shape so that both the flow path of the washing water and the flow path of the refrigerant may be effectively formed therein.

[0207] That is, the cylindrical condenser 120 may be formed to have a much larger width in the extension direction of the central axis than the diameter thereof so that the flow path of the washing water and the flow path of the refrigerant along the extension direction of the central axis may be secured to be as long as possible.

[0208] However, in order to increase the heating capacity of or heat exchange capacity with the washing water, the volume of the condenser 120 needs to be secured to be greater than or equal to a predetermined level.

[0209] However, the condenser 120 may be coupled to the module base 160 and be oriented such that the left-right direction (U-D direction) is a longitudinal direction of the condenser such that the condenser may be effectively and efficiently disposed in the accommodation space of the base 90 which is limited in height in the up-down direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0210] In one example, the condenser 120 having the cylindrical outer shape may be composed of divided bodies arranged along the longitudinal direction.

[0211] More specifically, the condenser 120 composed of the divided bodies may include a first body 121 in which a water inlet pipe 123 through which the washing water to be heated is introduced is formed.

[0212] As illustrated by way of example, the water inlet pipe 123 may be disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the first body 121 and be integrally formed therewith.

[0213] In addition, the condenser 120 composed of the divided bodies may include a second body 122 having a water outlet pipe 124 through which the heated washing water is discharged.

[0214] As illustrated by way of example, the water outlet pipe 124 may be disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the second body 122 and be integrally formed therewith.

[0215] Although not shown, a washing water pipe 190 may be connected to each of the water inlet pipe 123 and the water outlet pipe 124. The washing water pipe 190 may include a first washing water pipe 191 and a second first washing water pipe 192.

[0216] By way of example, one end of the first washing water pipe 191 may be connected to the water inlet pipe 123 of the first body 121.

[0217] The other end of the first washing water pipe 191 may be connected to the water inlet port or the water outlet port of the above-described washing pump 45.

[0218] That is, the washing water before being pressurized by the washing pump 45 or the washing water pressurized by the washing pump 45 may be introduced into the condenser 120 through the other end of the first washing water pipe 191.

[0219] Hereinafter, the configuration in which the other end of the first washing water pipe 191 is connected to the water outlet port of the washing pump 45, that is, the configuration in which the condenser 120 is positioned downstream of the washing pump 45 in the flow direction of the washing water and connected to the washing pump will be described. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0220] As the condenser 120 is positioned downstream of the washing pump 45 and connected thereto, the washing water pressurized by the washing pump may be introduced into the water inlet pipe 123 of the first body 121 through the first washing water pipe 191.

[0221] In addition, for example, one end of the second washing water pipe 192 may be connected to the water outlet pipe 124 of the second body 122.

[0222] The other end of the second washing water pipe 192 may be connected to the above-described supply flow path switching valve 465.

[0223] Accordingly, the heated washing water may be delivered through the second washing water pipe 192 and then the supply flow path switching valve 465 to the water sprayer.

[0224] In one example, each of the first washing water pipe 191 and the second washing water pipe 192 may include a material and a shape selected such that each of the first washing water pipe 191 and the second washing water pipe 192 may extend in the longitudinal direction.

[0225] To this end, each of the first washing water pipe 191 and the second washing water pipe 192 may be made of a material stretchable along the longitudinal direction.

[0226] Alternatively, each of the first washing water pipe 191 and the second washing water pipe 192 may be formed to have a stretchable shape such as a corrugated pipe.

[0227] Accordingly, a process of pre-removing the first washing water pipe 191 and the second washing water pipe 192 from the water inlet pipe 123 and the water outlet pipe 124 of the condenser 120 during the process of removing and detaching the heat pump module 100 from the base 90 may be omitted.

[0228] In one example, the water outlet pipe 124 and the water inlet pipe 123 of the condenser 120 are respectively positioned at positions spaced apart from each other by a maximized spacing along the longitudinal direction of the condenser 120, such that heating efficiency of or heat exchange efficiency with the washing water may be improved.

[0229] To this end, based on the illustrated state, the water inlet pipe 123 of the condenser 120 may be disposed at a position as close as possible to a front end of the first body 121. In addition, the water discharge pipe 124 of the condenser 120 may be disposed at a position as close as possible to a rear end of the second body 122.

[0230] In one example, a condenser refrigerant pipe in which the gaseous refrigerant is phase-converted into the liquid refrigerant may be accommodated into the first body 121 and the second body 122 of the condenser 120.

[0231] By way of example, the condenser refrigerant pipe may be introduced into the condenser 120 through the front end of the first body 121.

[0232] The condenser refrigerant pipe introduced into the condenser 120 may be formed to have a multilayer structure in which the pipe is bent a plurality of times or a coil structure in which the pipe is wound a plurality of times in order to increase heating efficiency of the washing water or heat exchange efficiency with the washing water.

[0233] In one example, as illustrated, the condenser 120 may be disposed in front of the sump 41 and the washing pump 45 in the front-rear direction (F-R direction).

[0234] More specifically, the condenser 120 constituting the heat pump module 100 may be disposed between the sump 41 and the front wall 92 of the base 90.

[0235] In this regard, the condenser 120 may be disposed at a position set so that a portion thereof protruding in the frontward direction from the front wall 92 of the base 90 is absent so that interference thereof with a lower frame (not shown) disposed in front of the front wall 92 of the base 90 does not occur.

[0236] As the condenser 120 is disposed at such a position, a linear distance from the water inlet pipe 123 and the water outlet pipe 124 of the condenser 120 to the sump 41 or the water inlet port and the water outlet port of the washing pump 45 may be minimized.

[0237] Accordingly, each of the length of the first washing water pipe 191 connected to the water inlet pipe 123 of the condenser 120 and the length of the second washing water pipe 192 connected to the water outlet pipe 124 of the condenser 120 may be minimized.

[0238] In addition, the space occupied with the first washing water pipe 191 and the second washing water pipe 192 in the inner space of the base 90 may be minimized, such that the space utilization of the accommodation space of the base 90 may be improved.

[0239] In addition, as illustrated, the condenser extends along the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) as the longitudinal direction thereof, such that the length of the condenser 120 in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) may be secured to be greater. Accordingly, a heat exchange capacity of the condenser 120 may be secured.

[0240] In addition, the condenser 120 may be disposed at a position maximally spaced apart from the evaporator 130 in the front-rear direction (F-R direction). Therefore, the influence of the airflow F_in to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator 130 on the condenser 120 may be minimized.

[0241] In one example, the heat pump module 100 may include the evaporator 130 into which the refrigerant that has flowed through the condenser 120 is introduced, and in which the liquid refrigerant is phase-changed to a gaseous state refrigerant.

[0242] As described above, the evaporator 130 is configured such that the refrigerant flowing therethrough undergoes the phase change while exchanging the heat with the airflow F_in generated from the air in the accommodation space of the base 90.

[0243] Therefore, in a similar manner to the condenser refrigerant pipe received in the condenser, the evaporator 130 may include an evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 formed in a multi-row structure and a multi-layer structure in which the pipe is bent a plurality of times. Thus, a heat exchange area of the refrigerant with the airflow to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant may be secured in a maximized manner. As will be described later, by way of example, the evaporator 130 including the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 which may be bent a plurality of times so as to have a three-row / four-layer structure may be applied.

[0244] In one example, the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 may be constructed such that the refrigerant flowing therein may exchange heat with the internal air of the accommodation space of the base 90 or exchange heat with the external air introduced from the outside out of the base 90.

[0245] FIG. 5 and subsequent drawings thereto, shows, by way of example, an embodiment in which the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 constructed such that the refrigerant flowing therein exchanges heat with the internal air of the accommodation space of the base 90.

[0246] The present disclosure will be described based on a configuration in which the internal air in the accommodation space of the base 90 exchanges the heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and a heat exchange fin 132 of the evaporator 130 and then is exhausted to the outside. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0247] In one example, when the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fin 132 of the evaporator 130 exchange the heat with the internal air of the base 90, a flow path or a passage needs to be formed so that the heat-exchanged air is discharged to the outside therethrough.

[0248] In this regard, along the shortest path, the internal air should flow through the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 and to the outside out of the base 90. To this end, the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 may be disposed at a position as close as possible to the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0249] In one example, in order to maximize heat exchange efficiency with the internal air of the base 90, the evaporator refrigerant pipe of the evaporator 130 may be accommodated in a duct body 171 of the heat exchange duct 170 constituting a heat exchange flow path or a heat exchange passage.

[0250] Therefore, in a state in which the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fin 132 are accommodated in the duct body 171 of the heat exchange duct 170, the duct body 171 of the heat exchange duct 170 may be disposed as close as possible to the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0251] Preferably, the heat exchange duct 170 may be disposed on the module base 160 so that a rear surface of the duct body 171 is in maximally close contact with the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0252] In one example, in a corresponding manner to the duct body 171 in maximally close contact with the rear wall 93 of the base 90, an air outlet 934 may be provided in the rear wall 93 of the base 90 in a form of a grill. Thus, the air flow F_out heat-exchanged while flowing through the duct body 171 may pass through the air outlet 934 and may be smoothly exhausted to the outside out of the base 90.

[0253] In one example, the blower module 180 may be disposed inside the duct body 171 to accelerate the internal air in the base 90 to generate the airflow F_in to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 of the evaporator 130.

[0254] In this regard, the blower module 180 may be configured to include only a single blower fan 181 and a single blower motor 182. Thus, an increase in the volume of the heat exchange duct 170 may be suppressed as much as possible, and space utilization of the accommodation space of the base 90 may be improved.

[0255] A detailed configuration of the heat exchange duct 170 accommodating therein the evaporator 130 and the blower module 180 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 7 to 10.

[0256] In one example, the heat pump module 100 may include the expansion valve 140 disposed between the second pipe 152 and the third pipe 153.

[0257] In the illustrated embodiment, the expansion valve 140 may be disposed at a position in front of the compressor 110 as a position in which interference thereof with the compressor 110 and the condenser 120 described above may be minimized.

[0258] In one example, the heat pump module 100 may include the module base 160 on which the compressor 110, the condenser 120, the evaporator 130, and the refrigerant pipe 150 as described above are collectively installed and supported.

[0259] More specifically, as shown, the module base 160 may include a plate-shaped base plate 161.

[0260] The compressor 110, the condenser 120, and the evaporator 130 may be collectively fixed to an upper surface of the base plate 161, and the compressor 110, the condenser 120, and the evaporator 130 may be collectively supported thereon.

[0261] As described above, a plurality of fastening bosses 164 may be formed on the upper surface of the base plate 161 and be integrally formed therewith so that the compressor 110, the condenser 120, and the evaporator 130 may be individually fastened to and supported on the base plate.

[0262] However, a thickness of the base plate 161 may be sized to be approximately constant across an entire area thereof in consideration of the accommodation space of the base 90 which is limited in height in the up-down direction (U-D direction).

[0263] However, the heat pump module 100 is configured to entirely and at-once extend from or retract into from the base 90 in the front-rear direction (F-R direction) in a state in which the compressor 110, the condenser 120, the evaporator 130, etc. are collectively fixed to the module base 160.

[0264] Therefore, in order to prevent damage during the extending and retracting process of the heat pump module from and into the base and to secure a predetermined rigidity thereof, a reinforcing rib 1612 extending in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) and the

[0265] front-rear direction (F-R direction) may be integrally formed with and be disposed on an upper surfacer or a lower surface of the base plate 161.

[0266] In one example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the shape of the module base 160 may be determined in consideration of the respective positions and the arrangement direction of the compressor 110, the condenser 120, and the evaporator 130.

[0267] In addition, the outer shape of the module base 160 may be determined to have a shape capable of spatially avoiding the sump 41 and the washing pump 45 disposed in the base 90.

[0268] In consideration of this shape determination, in the top view of the dishwasher, the base plate 161 of the module base 160 may have a shape obtaining by rotating the U shape by 90 degrees in a counterclockwise direction by way example.

[0269] In this regard, a rear edge of the base plate 161 may extend linearly along the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0270] In addition, a left edge of the base plate may extend linearly along the left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0271] In one example, similarly to the related art, the main control panel 210 may be disposed on the left wall 94 of the base 90 so as to be detachably coupled thereto.

[0272] The main control panel 210 controls the operation of the electrical / electronic components by controlling the supply of power to the washing pump 45, the compressor 110, the blower motor 182, etc. as the electrical / electronic components.

[0273] Accordingly, in order to minimize the influence of the water leakage from the water jacket 71, the water softener 72, the sump 41, and the washing pump 45 on the main control panel 210, the main control panel 210 may be disposed at a position as far apart as possible therefrom, that is, on the left wall 94 of the base 90 in a similar manner to the prior art.

[0274] To this end, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the main control panel 210 may be disposed along the edge of the left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0275] In addition, the main control panel 210 may be disposed in a state of covering the open portion of the open left wall 94 of the base 90.

[0276] In addition, in order to minimize the damage to the main control panel 210 as caused by the water leakage, the main control panel 210 may be disposed at a position spaced apart from the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90 in the upward direction (U-direction).

[0277] However, as described above, the heat pump module 100 of the present disclosure is configured to extend from and retract into the base 90 through the left wall 94 of the base 90 on which the main control panel 210 is installed.

[0278] That is, the heat pump module 100 of the present disclosure may be configured to extend from the base 90 while horizontally moving along the left direction (Le-direction), and to retract into the base 90 while horizontally moving along the right direction (Ri-direction).

[0279] Therefore, in consideration of the fact that the main control panel 210 is disposed at a position at which the main control panel 210 interferes with the heat pump module 100 extending from or retracting into the base 90, the main control panel 210 may be constructed to be at least partially mounted on the module base 160 and at least partially supported on the module base 160.

[0280] FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate an example configuration in which the main control panel 210 is entirely supported on the module base 160.

[0281] A pair of installation ribs 162 as a means for supporting and fixing the main control panel 210 may be disposed on the module base 160.

[0282] The main control panel 210 may be fastened to the pair of installation ribs 162 using a fastening means such as a screw bolt or the like, which is not shown.

[0283] Although not shown, the main control panel 210 may be fastened to the left wall 94 of the base 90 at a position different from the installation rib 162 using a separate screw bolt or the like.

[0284] In addition, a slot to which a lower end of the main control panel 210 is coupled may be formed between the pair of installation ribs 162 and extend in an elongate manner along the front-rear direction (F-R direction).

[0285] In one example, as the main control panel 210 is constructed to be at least partially supported on the module base 160, an area on which the main control panel 210 is mounted may be defined in the base plate 161.

[0286] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the area on which the main control panel 210 is mounted may be defined in a left side around an area of the base plate 161 on which the components of the heat pump module 100 are mounted.

[0287] Accordingly, the base plate 161 may be divided into a first area A1 on which the components of the heat pump module 100 are mounted and a second area A2 on which the main control panel 210 is mounted.

[0288] As illustrated, the second area A2 may extend along the front-rear direction (F-R direction) while being defined in a left end edge of the base plate 161.

[0289] In addition, the second area A2 may have a width in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) corresponding to a thickness in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) of the main control panel 210.

[0290] In one example, the lower surface of the base plate 161 of the module base 160 may be entirely seated on the base 90 in a surface contact state with the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0291] A seat surface with which the base plate 161 is coupled so as to be in a surface contact state may be defined as an upper surface of the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0292] The seat surface of the base 90 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the base plate 161 of the module base 160 and an area size corresponding to the areas size of the base plate 161 of the module base 160.

[0293] In one example, a guide rib 911 protruding from the bottom surface portion 91 in the upward direction (U-direction) may be integrally formed with and be disposed on the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0294] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the guide rib 911 may extend along an outer edge of the base plate 161 of the module base 160.

[0295] In addition, the guide rib 911 may be formed in a barrier shape to have a shape corresponding to the outer edge of the base plate 161.

[0296] Therefore, a process in which the heat pump module 100 is mounted into a correct position may be effectively guided by the guide rib 911 of the base 90, and the heat pump module 100 may be effectively prevented from being removed from the correct position

[0297] In addition, the movement direction of the heat pump module 100 may be effectively guided by the guide rib 911 of the base 90 when the heat pump module 100 is horizontally moved in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) so as to be mounted into the base and be removed from the base.Detailed Configuration of Heat Exchange Duct

[0298] Hereinafter, a detailed configuration of the heat exchange duct 170 constituting the heat pump module 100 according to the present disclosure and a detailed configuration of the air outlet 934 through which the airflow F_out heat-exchanged with the refrigerant in the heat exchange duct 170 is exhausted will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 10.

[0299] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the heat exchange duct 170 of the heat pump module 100 according to the present disclosure may include the duct body 171 accommodating the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the blower module 180 therein.

[0300] The duct body 171 serves to accommodate the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fins 132 constituting the evaporator 130 therein.

[0301] To this end, the duct body 171 may include a first duct portion 1711 accommodating the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fins 132 therein.

[0302] As illustrated, in consideration of the shape of the evaporator 130 in which the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) is the longitudinal direction of the evaporator 130 and the front-rear direction (F-R direction) is the thickness direction thereof, the first duct portion 1711 may be constructed in the shape of a hollow hexahedral box in which the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) is the longitudinal direction of the first duct portion 1711 and the front-rear direction (F-R direction) is the thickness direction thereof.

[0303] In addition, the duct body 171 may include a second duct portion 1712 accommodating the blower module 180 therein.

[0304] As described above, the blower module 180 may include only a single blower fan 181 and a single blower motor 182.

[0305] Due to the limitation of a size in the up-down direction (U-D direction) of the area in which the blower module 180 is installed, the blower fan 181 constituting the blower module 180 may be constructed to have a smaller diameter than the width in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) of the evaporator 130.

[0306] Accordingly, the width in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) of the second duct portion 1712 may be smaller than the width in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction)of the first duct portion 1711.

[0307] That is, a vertical cross-sectional area size of the second duct portion 1712 may be sized to be smaller than a vertical cross-sectional area size of the first duct portion 1711.

[0308] Accordingly, when the second duct portion 1712 is directly connected to the first duct portion 1711, the cross-sectional area of the passage through which the airflow F_in to be heat-exchanged flows rapidly changes, such that there is a concern that flow resistance and flow loss due to generation of vortex or turbulence may be large.

[0309] To this end, a third duct portion 1713 whose a vertical cross-sectional area size is gradually increased may be provided between the first duct portion 1711 and the second duct portion 1712.

[0310] More specifically, the third duct portion 1713 may have a shape in which the cross-sectional area size is gradually increased while the third duct portion 1713 extends from the front side to the rear side in consideration of the flow direction of the airflow F_in to be heat-exchanged.

[0311] As illustrated, a rear end of the third duct portion 1713 may be integrally formed with and be connected to the first duct portion 1711, and a front end of the third duct portion 1713 may be integrally formed with and be connected to the second duct portion 1712.

[0312] In one example, the heat exchange duct 170 serves to constitute the passage through which the airflow F_in to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator 130 flows.

[0313] To this end, each of the first duct portion 1711, the second duct portion 1712, and the third duct portion 1713 constituting the heat exchange duct 170 may be constructed to have a hollow shape.

[0314] The air intake port 170a into which the airflow F_in to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator 130 is introduced may be formed to pass through the front end surface of the second duct portion 1712.

[0315] An air exhaust port 170b through which the airflow F_in to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator 130 is discharged may be formed to pass through the rear end surface of the first duct portion 1711.

[0316] Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the flow of the internal air inside the base 90 introduced through the air intake port 170a may be accelerated by the blower fan 181 to generate the airflow F_in to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fins 132.

[0317] In this regard, the flow cross-sectional area size of the air gradually expands while the air is flowing through the third duct portion 1713, the accelerated airflow F_in may be evenly spread toward the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fins 132.

[0318] The airflow F_out heat-exchanged with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fins 132 may flow through the air exhaust port 170b formed to pass through the rear end surface of the first duct portion 1711 and thus may be discharged to the outside out of the heat exchange duct 170.

[0319] In this regard, an open area size of the air exhaust port 170b of the first duct portion 1711 may be sized to be smaller than an area size of a space occupied with the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131.

[0320] This size setting is made in consideration of an open area size of the air outlet 934 formed to pass through the rear wall 93 of the base 90, as will be described later.

[0321] As will be described later, the area size of the air outlet 934 of the base 90 may be sized to be smaller than the area size of the space occupied with the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131.

[0322] In order that the duct body 171 of the heat exchange duct 170 together with the condenser 120 and the compressor 110 is modularized into the single module as the heat pump module, the duct body 171 of the heat exchange duct 170 may be detachably coupled to the base plate 161 of the module base 160 or may be integrally formed with and be connected to the base plate 161 of the module base 160.

[0323] FIG. 7 illustrates a configuration in which a lower end of the first duct portion 1711, a lower end of the second duct portion 1712, and a lower end of the third duct portion 1713 constituting the duct body 171 are integrally formed with and be connected to the upper surface of the base plate 161.

[0324] Hereinafter, the configuration in which each of the first duct portion 1711, the second duct portion 1712, and the third duct portion 1713 is integrally formed with and be connected to the base plate 161 will be described by way of example. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0325] In one example, the blower module 180 for generating the airflow to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fins 132 of the evaporator 130 may be disposed inside the duct body 171.

[0326] In this regard, in order to maximally suppress an increase in the volume of the heat exchange duct 170 and increase the space utilization thereof, the blower module 180 may include a single blower fan 181 and a single blower motor 182.

[0327] FIG. 6 and subsequent drawings thereto illustrate embodiments in which the blower fan 181 includes an axial flow fan for generating an axial air flow. However, this is merely an example, and the blower fan having the structure varying depending on the design condition of the duct body 171 may be applied. For example, a sirocco fan as a centrifugal fan may be applied. An embodiment in which the blower fan 181 is embodied as the centrifugal fan will be described later with reference to FIG. 20.

[0328] In this regard, due to the limitation of the up-down directional (U-D direction) size and the left-right directional (Le-Ri direction) size of the area in which the blower module 180 is installed, the blower fan 181 constituting the blower module 180 may be set to have a smaller diameter than each of the left-right directional (Le-Ri direction) width and the up-down directional (U-D direction) width of the evaporator 130.

[0329] As illustrated, the blower motor 182 may be supported by the bracket 183 so as to be in an exposed state to the airflow F_in to be heat-exchanged.

[0330] As illustrated in FIG. 8, a slot 1712a having a width in the front-rear direction (F-R direction) corresponding to a width in the front-rear direction (F-R direction) of the bracket 183 of the blower module 180 may be formed in the second duct portion 1712.

[0331] The bracket 183 may be inserted into the slot in a sliding manner in a state in which the blower motor 182 and the blower fan 181 are coupled to the bracket 183. Thus, the bracket 183 may be coupled to the slot 1712a of the second duct portion 1712.

[0332] In one example, each of the first duct portion 1711, the second duct portion 1712, and the third duct portion 1713 constituting the duct body 171 of the heat exchange duct 170 may be constructed such that upper surface thereof is entirely open.

[0333] The heat exchange duct 170 may further include a duct cover 172 that serves to close the open upper surfaces of the first duct portion 1711, the second duct portion 1712, and the third duct portion 1713 constituting the duct body 171.

[0334] As illustrated, the duct cover 172 may be constructed to close all of the upper end surface of the first duct portion 1711, the upper end surface of the second duct portion 1712, and the upper end surface of the third duct portion 1713 at the same time.

[0335] More specifically, the duct cover 172 may include a first cover portion 1721 for closing the open upper end surface of the first duct portion 1711, and a second cover portion 1722 for closing the open upper end surface of the second duct portion 1712 and the open upper end surface of the third duct portion 1713.

[0336] As illustrated, the first cover portion 1721 and the second cover portion 1722 may be integrally formed with each other.

[0337] Accordingly, the airflow F_out heat-exchanged with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fins 132 may be prevented from leaking into the accommodation space of the base 90. Accordingly, a phenomenon in which the airflow F_out heat-exchanged with the refrigerant in the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the heat exchange fins 132 is re-introduced into the heat exchange duct 170 or leaks into the tub 20 and the sump 41 to lower the washing water temperature may be minimized.

[0338] In addition, the duct cover 172 may be detachably coupled to the upper end surface of the duct body 171.

[0339] In order for the duct cover to be detachably coupled to the duct body, fastening tabs 112 extending downwards may be integrally formed with and be disposed on each of the left end surface and the right end surface of the first cover portion 1721.

[0340] Catching protrusions 1711a with which the fastening tabs 112 are respectively caught and coupled to may be integrally formed with and be disposed on the left and right surfaces of the first duct portion 1711 respectively, in a corresponding manner to the fastening tabs 112.

[0341] Therefore, for maintenance and repair of the evaporator 130 and the blower module 180 of the heat pump module 100, the heat pump module 100 may be removed from the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90 and may extend from the base through the open left wall 94 of the base 90 and then only the duct cover 172 may be independently removed from the duct body 171.

[0342] Therefore, even when only the duct cover 172 is removed from the duct body 171, the evaporator refrigerant pipe 131 and the blower module 180 accommodated in the duct body 171 may be repaired or replaced. Accordingly, the convenience of maintenance and repair of the evaporator 130 and the blower module 180 may be improved.

[0343] In one example, as described above, the heat exchange duct 170 is constructed such that the airflow F_out heat-exchanged with the refrigerant in the evaporator 130 flows through the air exhaust port 170b of the heat exchange duct 170 and is exhausted to the outside out of the dishwasher 1.

[0344] To this end, the air outlet 934 may be formed to pass through the rear wall 93 of the base 90 in the front-rear direction (F-R direction).

[0345] As illustrated in FIG. 10, a pair of pillar portions 9311 supporting the load of the tub 20 may be integrally formed with and be disposed on the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0346] In order to prevent a decrease in strength of the base, it may be difficult to form the air outlet 934 at a position where each of the pair of pillar portions 9311 is formed.

[0347] Accordingly, the air outlet 934 of the base 90 may be positioned and formed at a position avoiding positions of the pair of pillar portions 9311.

[0348] Preferably, as illustrated, the duct body 171 of the heat exchange duct 170 may be disposed in an area between the pair of pillar portions 9311 arranged in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction), and the air outlet 934 may be formed immediately in rear of the duct body 171.

[0349] As illustrated in FIG. 10, in order to distribute the load of the tub 20, the pair of pillar portions 9311 may be formed at positions symmetrical with each other around a center line in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) of the base 90.

[0350] Accordingly, each of the duct body 171 of the heat exchange duct 170 and the air outlet 934 of the base 90 may be disposed at an approximately central position in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction) of the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0351] However, as illustrated, the rear wall 93 of the base 90 may be constructed to have a stepped shape.

[0352] More specifically, the rear wall 93 of the base 90 may include an upper wall surface portion 931 and a lower wall surface portion 932 concavely recessed in the frontward direction from the upper wall surface portion 931 in the front-rear direction (F-R direction).

[0353] Accordingly, a stepped space concavely recessed in the frontward direction may be formed between the upper wall surface portion 931 and the ground on which the base 90 is supported.

[0354] Such a stepped space may provide an area in which a water supply pipe, a drain pipe, or a power cable passing through the lower wall surface portion 932 of the rear wall 93 of the base 90 and connected to the heat pump module is disposed extends.

[0355] In one example, as described above, the heat exchange duct 170 is disposed in close contact with the front surface of the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0356] Accordingly, the air exhaust port 170b of the heat exchange duct 170 may be positioned so as to be included in the area of the upper wall surface portion 931 and the area of the lower wall surface portion 932 of the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0357] In consideration of this position of the air exhaust port 170b, the air outlet 934 may be formed to pass through the area of the upper wall surface portion 931 and the area of the lower wall surface portion 932 of the rear wall 93 of the base 90.

[0358] Accordingly, an upper edge of the air outlet 934 may be disposed in the upper wall surface portion 931 of the rear wall 93, and a lower edge of the air outlet 934 may be disposed in the lower wall surface portion 932 of the rear wall 93.

[0359] Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, a roof-shaped air shield portion 933 may be formed in rear of and on top of of the air outlet 934.

[0360] The flow direction of the airflow F_out discharged through the air outlet 934 may be guided by the stepped shape of the rear wall 93 of the base 90 and the air shield portion 933 of the rear wall 93 so as to move along the stepped space.

[0361] That is, the stepped space may function as a passage through which the airflow F_out heat-exchanged with the refrigerant flows.

[0362] In one example, a guide vane 935 for guiding the flow direction of the heat-exchanged airflow F_out may be disposed on the air outlet 934 of the base 90.

[0363] By way of example, the guide vane 935 may be constructed to guide the heat-exchanged airflow F_out in a divided manner such that one portion of the airflow F_out flows along the left direction (Le-direction) and the other portion of the airflow F_out flows along the right direction (Ri-direction).

[0364] Accordingly, a phenomenon that the heat-exchanged airflow F_out flows through the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90 and re-enters the accommodation space of the base 90 may be minimized.

[0365] However, as described above, the air shield portion 933 is disposed immediately in rear of the air exhaust port 170b of the heat exchange duct 170.

[0366] Thus, the portion of the airflow F_out discharged to the air exhaust port 170b may be re-introduced into the base 90 through a gap between the air shield portion 933 and the rear surface of the heat exchange duct 170.

[0367] In order to prevent the re-introduction of the heat-exchanged air flow F_out into the base as described above, the duct cover 172 of the heat exchange duct 170 may further include a rearward extension portion 1721b.

[0368] As illustrated in FIG. 11, a front end of the rearward extension portion 1721b of the duct cover 172 may be integrally formed with and be connected to the first cover portion 1721.

[0369] In addition, a rear end of the rearward extension portion 1721b of the duct cover 172 may extend to a position so as to be capable of at least partially covering the upper surface, the left side surface, and the right side surface of the air shield portion 933.

[0370] In addition, the rearward extension portion 1721b of the duct cover 172 may be disposed so as to be brought into a surface contact state with the air shield portion 933.

[0371] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 12, the gap that may be formed between the air shield portion 933 and the rear surface of the heat exchange duct 170 due to the machining tolerance may be effectively shielded with the rearward extension portion 1721b of the duct cover 172.

[0372] Therefore, the phenomenon that the airflow F_out which has exchanged the heat with the refrigerant may leak into the accommodation space of the base 90 through the gap between the air shield portion 933 and the rear surface of the heat exchange duct 170 due to the machining tolerance and thus may be re-introduced into the heat exchange duct 170 may be minimized.Detailed Structure of Air Guide

[0373] Hereinafter, a detailed configuration of the air guide 173 of the heat pump module 100 according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 19.

[0374] As described above, the present disclosure aims to provide the dishwasher configured to prevent overheating that may occur when the compressor 110 and the main control panel 210 are disposed close to each other.

[0375] As described above, the compressor 110 may be disposed between the main control panel 210 and the evaporator 130 in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0376] More specifically, the compressor 110 may be disposed in a space formed between the blower module 180 accommodated in the heat exchange duct 170 and the main control panel 210.

[0377] In this regard, the compressor 110 may be disposed close to the air intake port 170a of the heat exchange duct 170.

[0378] Accordingly, the compressor 110 may be exposed to the airflow flowing into the air intake port 170a of the heat exchange duct 170, and thus the cooling effect of the compressor 110 may be improved.

[0379] However, when only the configuration that the compressor 110 is disposed close to the air intake port 170a of the heat exchange duct 170 is used, the compressor 110 and the main control panel 210 may be insufficiently cooled down by the airflow F_in to be heat-exchanged with the refrigerant in the evaporator.

[0380] The heat pump module 100 may further include the air guide 173 as a means for guiding the flow direction of the airflow F_in so as to increase the proportion of the airflow F_in flowing on and along the compressor 110 relative to the total amount of the airflow F_in flowing into the heat exchange duct 170.

[0381] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate a configuration of the air guide 173 according to a first embodiment.

[0382] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment may include an upper wall 1731 disposed at a position spaced apart from the compressor 110 in the upward direction (U-direction).

[0383] As illustrated, the upper wall 1731 serves as a roof that screens the compressor 110 while being disposed on top thereof.

[0384] Accordingly, in the top view from the viewer positioned in the upward direction (U-direction) of the air guide, the compressor 110 is screened with the upper wall 1731, and thus a state in which the viewer positioned in the upward direction (U-direction) of the air guide cannot view the compressor may be formed.

[0385] Accordingly, the airflow F_in flowing in the vertical direction toward the compressor 110 may be blocked with the upper wall 1731 of the air guide 173.

[0386] In one example, the upper wall 1731 of the air guide 173 may be integrally formed with and be connected to the second cover portion 1722 of the duct cover 172, or may be formed separately from the second cover portion 1722 of the duct cover 172 and then be coupled to the second cover portion 1722 of the duct cover 172.

[0387] In the illustrated first embodiment, a right edge of the upper wall 1731 of the air guide 173 is integrally formed with and be connected to the second cover portion 1722 of the duct cover 172.

[0388] In addition, the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment may further include a rear wall 1732 disposed at a position spaced rearwardly from the compressor 110.

[0389] As shown, the rear wall 1732 serves to screen the compressor 110 while being disposed in rear thereof.

[0390] Therefore, in the rear view from the viewer positioned in rear of the air guide, the compressor 110 is entirely screened with the rear wall 1732, and thus a state in which the viewer positioned in rear of the air guide cannot view the compressor may be formed.

[0391] Accordingly, the airflow F_in flowing in the frontward direction from a position in rear of the compressor 110 toward the compressor 110 may be blocked by the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173.

[0392] As illustrated, an upper end edge of the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173 may be integrally formed with and be connected to a rear end edge of the upper wall 1731.

[0393] In addition, a right edge of the rear wall 1732 may extend to a position so as to be in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the duct body 171 of the heat exchange duct 170.

[0394] Accordingly, the airflow F_in flowing from a position in rear of the compressor 110 toward the compressor 110 may be blocked with the rear wall 1732.

[0395] In addition, a lower end of the rear wall 1732 may extend to a position so as to be in contact with the bottom surface 1611 of the base plate 161 of the module base 160.

[0396] As illustrated, each of the upper wall 1731 and the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment may be provided in the shape of a plate that does not have an opening and is entirely blocked.

[0397] The air guide 173 according to the first embodiment may further include a left wall 1733 disposed at a position spaced apart from the compressor 110 in the left direction (Le-direction).

[0398] As illustrated, an upper edge of the left wall 1733 may be integrally formed with and be connected to a left edge of the upper wall 1731, and a rear edge of the left wall 1733 may be integrally formed with and be connected to a left edge of the rear wall 1732.

[0399] However, the left wall 1733 is disposed between the compressor 110 and the main control panel 210 and is disposed at a position so as to space the compressor 110 and the main control panel 210 from each other.

[0400] A plurality of openings may be provided in the left wall 1733 of the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment so that the airflow F_in having flowed on and along the main control panel 210 may flow toward the compressor 110.

[0401] As, as described above, the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment is configured to include the upper wall 1731, the rear wall 1732, and the left wall 1733, the front surface of the air guide 173 may be opened, and thus an opening path through which the heat-exchanged airflow F_out may flow may be formed.

[0402] As the compressor 110 is disposed so as to be exposed to the opening path as described above, at least a portion of the airflow F_in introduced into the air intake port 170a of the heat exchange duct 170 may flow on and along the compressor 110 and may be introduced into the air intake port 170a.

[0403] In particular, the proportion of the airflow F_in introduced into the air intake port 170a after having flowed on and along the outer circumferential surface of the compressor 110 may be significantly increased due to the presence of the upper wall 1731 and the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173, thereby improving cooling efficiency on the compressor 110.

[0404] In addition, as the proportion of the airflow F_in heated by the compressor 110 increases, the heat exchange efficiency on the evaporator 130 may be significantly improved.

[0405] In one example, although not shown, the first pipe 151 and the second pipe 152 may extend through the open front surface of the air guide 173, and the third pipe 153 and the fourth pipe 154 may extend through the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173.

[0406] FIG. 15 illustrates a configuration of an air guide according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0407] The air guide 173 according to the second embodiment may further include a front wall 1734 and a right wall 1735 compared to the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment described above.

[0408] As illustrated, an upper end edge of the front wall 1734 of the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment may be integrally formed with and be connected to the front end edge of the upper wall 1731.

[0409] In addition, a left edge of the front wall 1734 may be integrally formed with and be connected to the front edge of the left wall 1733.

[0410] In addition, a lower end of the front wall 1734 may extend to a position so as to be in contact with the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90 and the bottom surface 1611 of the module base 160.

[0411] In one example, as illustrated, a front edge of the right wall 1735 of the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment may be integrally formed with and be connected to the right edge of the front wall 1734.

[0412] In addition, a rear end edge of the right wall 1735 may extend so as to be in contact with a front end surface of the second duct portion 1712 of the duct body 171.

[0413] In addition, a lower end edge of the right wall 1735 may extend to a position so as to be in contact with the bottom surface portion 91 of the base 90.

[0414] As the front wall 1734 and the right wall 1735 are further added to constitute the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment, a closed passage may be defined inside the second air guide 173 while only an air inlet 1736 and an air outlet of the air guide are opened.

[0415] In this regard, the compressor 110 may be entirely accommodated in the closed passage defined by the second air guide 173.

[0416] Therefore, compared to the first embodiment, the proportion of the airflow F_in flowing on and along the compressor 110 is significantly increased, so that the cooling efficiency of the compressor 110 and the heat exchange efficiency of the evaporator 130 may be significantly increased.

[0417] In one example, the plurality of openings formed in the left wall 1733 of the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment may function as the air inlet 1736 into the closed passage.

[0418] As illustrated, the left wall 1733 of the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment is parallel to the left wall 94 of the base 90 and the main control panel 210.

[0419] Accordingly, the air inlet 1736 of the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment is opened toward the main control panel 210.

[0420] Accordingly, the airflow F_in having flowed on and along the main control panel 210 may be introduced into the air inlet 1736 in the right direction (Ri-direction).

[0421] The airflow F_in introduced through the air inlet 1736 in the right direction (Ri-direction) may flow along and on the outer circumferential surface of the compressor 110 and then be introduced into the air intake port 170a of the heat exchange duct 170, such that the flow direction thereof may be changed to the rearward direction.

[0422] In one example, a filter mesh 1737 capable of filtering foreign substances such as dusts may be disposed in an area of the left wall 1733 of the air guide 173 according to the second embodiment in which the air inlet 1736 is formed.

[0423] Accordingly, the foreign substances such as dusts or the like may be prevented from being accumulated in the evaporator 130, or contamination of the condensed water generated during the heat exchange process of the evaporator 130 with the foreign substances such as dusts or the like may be prevented.

[0424] In one example, although not shown, the first pipe 151 and the second pipe 152 may extend through the front wall 1734 of the air guide 173, and the third pipe 153 and the fourth pipe 154 may extend through the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173.

[0425] In one example, a configuration of the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated in FIGS. 16 to 19.

[0426] The air guide 173 according to the third embodiment may be configured such that the air inlet 1736 is formed in the front wall 1734, compared to the air guide 173 according to the first embodiment as described above.

[0427] Accordingly, the air inlet 1736 of the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment is opened in the frontward direction.

[0428] As the air inlet 1736 is formed in the front wall 1734 and is opened in the frontward direction, the first pipe 151 and the second pipe 152 may extend through the air inlet 1736 and extend in the front-rear direction (F-R direction).

[0429] Therefore, unlike the above-described embodiments, in the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment, a separate through-hole through which the first pipe 151 and the second pipe 152 pass does not need to be formed in the front wall 1734.

[0430] In addition, unlike the above-described embodiments, the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment may be coplanar with the rear surface of the first duct body 171 of the duct body 171.

[0431] Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the third pipe 153 and the fourth pipe 154 may be disposed so as to be entirely accommodated in the closed passage.

[0432] That is, a space occupied with the third pipe 153 and the fourth pipe 154 may be secured inside the closed passage.

[0433] Therefore, unlike the above-described embodiments, in the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment, a separate through-hole through which the third pipe 153 and the fourth pipe 154 pass does not need to be formed in the rear wall 1732.

[0434] In one example, as the rear wall 1732 of the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment is displaced in the rearward direction so as to be coplanar with the rear surface of the first duct body 171 of the duct body 171, the closed passage may be expanded in the rearward direction of the air intake port 170a of the heat exchange duct 170.

[0435] Accordingly, according to the third embodiment, in addition to the effect of expanding the cross-sectional area size of the closed passage, the flow path of the airflow F_in may be additionally changed from a position in rear of the compressor 110 in the closed passage inside the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment.

[0436] Accordingly, a time duration for which the airflow F_in stays in the closed passage of the air guide 173 according to the third embodiment may be increased, and a vortex or turbulence of the airflow F_in may be easily generated.

[0437] This may additionally improve the cooling effect of the airflow F_in on the compressor 110 or the heat-exchange efficiency thereof with the compressor 110.

[0438] In one example, FIG. 20 illustrates a configuration of the air guide 173 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0439] The air guide 173 according to the fourth embodiment may include the blower fan 181 embodied as a centrifugal fan, compared to the configuration according to the above-described embodiment.

[0440] As illustrated, the blower fan 181 embodied as the centrifugal fan may be constructed in a sirocco fan structure in which the blower motor 182 and the blower fan 181 are modularized with each other.

[0441] As the blower fan 181 is embodied as the centrifugal fan, the rotation axis of the blower fan 181 may extend in the left-right direction.

[0442] In addition, the air inlet of the blower module 180 may be opened in the left direction (Le-direction).

[0443] In addition, unlike the above-described embodiments, the blower module 180 embodied as the centrifugal fan may have a width in the front-rear direction (F-R direction) much greater than each of a width in the up-down direction (U-D direction) and each of a width in the left-right direction (Le-Ri direction).

[0444] Therefore, as illustrated, the blower module 180 according to the fourth embodiment may be disposed to be entirely accommodated in the air guide 173.

[0445] In addition, as the blower module 180 is accommodated inside the air guide 173, the second duct portion 1712 constituting the heat exchange duct 170 and serving to accommodate the blower module 180 therein may be omitted, unlike the above-described embodiments

[0446] Accordingly, the width in the front-rear direction (F-R direction) of the heat exchange duct 170 according to the fourth embodiment may be reduced compared to the above-described embodiments.

[0447] In this regard, the air intake port 170a of the heat exchange duct 170 may be formed in the front end surface of the third duct portion 1713.

[0448] In order to prevent decrease in the blowing efficiency, the air outlet of the blower module 180 according to the fourth embodiment may be constructed to be directly connected to and communicate with the air intake port 170a formed in the third duct portion 1713 of the heat exchange duct 170.

[0449] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to these embodiments, and may be modified in a various manner within the scope of the technical spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the embodiments as disclosed in the present disclosure are intended to describe rather than limit the technical idea of the present disclosure, and the scope of the technical idea of the present disclosure is not limited by these embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are not restrictive but illustrative in all respects. In addition, even though an effect of a configuration of the present disclosure is not explicitly described in describing the embodiment of the present disclosure above, it is obvious that the predictable effect from the configuration should be recognized.

Claims

1. A dishwasher comprising:a tub having a washing space defined therein and accommodating dishes therein;a base disposed under the tub;a sump disposed between the base and the tub and configured to store therein washing water to be supplied to the tub; anda heat pump module disposed between the base and the tub and configured to heat washing water to be supplied to the sump,wherein the heat pump module includes:a compressor configured to compress refrigerant;a condenser configured to receive the refrigerant having flowed through the compressor and to heat the washing water to be supplied to the sump;an evaporator configured to receive the refrigerant having flowed through the condenser; anda heat exchange duct constructed to accommodate the evaporator therein and to have a passage defined therein, wherein airflow to be subjected to heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator flows through the passage.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the heat pump module further include a blower module configured to blow air to generate the airflow to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator,wherein the heat exchange duct includes:a first duct portion accommodating therein the evaporator; anda second duct portion accommodating therein the blower module.

3. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the first duct portion is disposed in rear of the second duct portion.

4. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein in a view of the dishwasher in a direction perpendicular to a flow direction of the airflow, a cross-sectional area size of the first duct portion is larger than a cross-sectional area size of the second duct portion.

5. The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein the heat exchange duct further includes a third duct portion disposed between the first duct portion and the second duct portion.

6. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein in a view of the dishwasher in a direction perpendicular to a flow direction of the airflow, a cross-sectional area size of a front end surface of the third duct portion is sized to be smaller than a cross-sectional area size of a rear end surface of the third duct portion.

7. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein in a view of the dishwasher in a direction perpendicular to the flow direction of the airflow, a cross-sectional area size of the third duct portion gradually increases as the third duct portion extends from a front end of the third duct portion toward a rear end of the third duct portion.

8. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein the third duct portion is integrally formed with and connected to each of the first duct portion and the second duct portion.

9. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the blower module includes:a blower fan configured to accelerate the air to generate the airflow; anda blower motor for generating a rotational driving force to drive the blower fan,wherein the blower fan consists of a single blower fan,wherein the blower motor consists of a single blower motor.

10. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the blower fan is embodied as an axial flow fan.

11. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the heat exchange duct is disposed to be in close contact with an inner side surface of a rear wall of the base.

12. The dishwasher of claim 11, wherein an air outlet formed to pass through the rear wall of the base in the front-rear direction is disposed at a position where the heat exchange duct is disposed to be in close contact with the rear wall of the base,wherein the airflow of the air subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator is exhausted through the air outlet out of the heat exchange duct.

13. The dishwasher of claim 11, wherein the compressor is disposed between the evaporator and one sidewall of the base and is disposed in front of the evaporator.

14. The dishwasher of claim 13, wherein at least a portion of the compressor is disposed in front of an air intake port of the heat exchange duct in a front-rear direction.

15. The dishwasher of claim 14, wherein the compressor is constructed such that a volume of a portion of the compressor disposed in front of the air intake port of the heat exchange duct is larger than a volume of a portion thereof disposed in rear of the air intake port of the heat exchange duct.

16. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the heat pump module further include an air guide constructed to guide a flow direction of the airflow so that at least a portion of the airflow to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator flows on and along the compressor and then is introduced into the air intake port of the heat exchange duct.

17. The dishwasher of claim 16, wherein the air guide includes:an upper wall disposed at a position spaced apart from the compressor in an upward direction; anda rear wall disposed at a position spaced rearwardly from the compressor;wherein the upper wall is connected to an upper end of the heat exchange duct,wherein the rear wall is connected to an outer peripheral surface of the heat exchange duct.

18. The dishwasher of claim 16, wherein the dishwasher further comprises a main control panel configured to control power to be supplied to the compressor to control an operation of the compressor,wherein the air guide has an air inlet through which the airflow to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator is introduced,wherein the air inlet is opened toward the main control panel.

19. The dishwasher of claim 16, wherein the air guide has an air inlet through which the airflow to be subjected to the heat-exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator is introduced,wherein the air inlet is opened in a frontward direction.

20. The dishwasher of claim 16, wherein the blower module includes:a blower fan configured to accelerate the air to generate the airflow; anda blower motor for generating a rotational driving force to drive the blower fan,wherein the blower fan is embodied as a centrifugal fan and is accommodated in the air guide.

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