Dishwasher

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dishwasher. The dishwasher of the present invention comprises: a tub that forms a washing space in which dishes are placed, and has one open side; a door that is arranged on one side of the tub, and opens and closes the one open side of the tub; and a detergent supply device that supplies detergent to the washing space. The detergent supply device comprises: a detergent tank that forms a storage space in which detergent is stored; a housing that forms a mounting space in which the detergent tank is mounted; a pump that is mounted on one side of the detergent tank, and sends the detergent stored in the storage space to the washing space; and a motor that is disposed on one side of the housing and operates the pump. The pump comprises: a pump tube that is connected to the detergent tank to supply the detergent stored in the detergent tank to the washing space; and a plurality of pressure rollers that are connected to the motor to rotate, and pressurize one side of the pump tube. The pump tube has a partial area disposed horizontally, which sends the detergent that flows by means of the pressure rollers to a discharge port of the detergent tank.

Description

dishwasher

[0001] The present invention relates to a dishwasher, and more particularly, to a dishwasher that supplies detergent using a pump.

[0002] A dishwasher is a device that washes, rinses, dries, and removes dirt from dishes. Dishwashers dispense detergent solution or powder into a dispenser located inside the machine for cleaning.

[0003] However, the inconvenience of having to manually add detergent and other ingredients every time the dishwasher is used is present. Furthermore, since the user manually adds detergent, the amount of detergent added may vary.

[0004] To solve this problem, dishwashers are being developed that include a detergent supply device that stores a certain amount of detergent and supplies only a portion of it during the washing process.

[0005] European Patent Publication No. EP 3888521 A1 discloses a dishwasher including a detergent supply device that pressurizes a tube to supply a certain amount of detergent to a tub.

[0006] However, the disclosed dishwasher has a structure that makes it difficult to easily separate the motor that operates the pump. Furthermore, even when the pump is stopped, this structure can cause detergent to leak from the tubes, which are arranged in a way, to the outlet. Furthermore, this structure can cause detergent to harden in the tubes arranged inside the pump. Furthermore, this structure can make it difficult to precisely control the pump using the motor.

[0007] In addition, the above structure is a structure in which a tank in which detergent is stored is mounted on one side of the door and is temporarily coupled, and thus, the coupling or connection between the detergent tank and the housing that accommodates it may be affected by external impact, etc.

[0008] The present invention aims to provide a dishwasher in which the connection between the detergent tank and the housing is maintained stably during the process of mounting the detergent tank and the housing, and after mounting. Furthermore, the present invention provides a dishwasher in which sensors, etc., that detect the operation of the detergent tank are stably detected while the detergent tank is mounted on the housing.

[0009] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a dishwasher that minimizes leakage of detergent present in the pump.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher that prevents the detergent present inside the pump from hardening.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher that supplies detergent to a tub by precisely controlling a pump.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher equipped with a compact detergent supply device.

[0013] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0014] In order to achieve the above task, a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention forms a washing space in which dishes are placed inside, includes a tub with one side open, a door disposed on one side of the tub and opening and closing the open side of the tub, and a detergent supply device that supplies detergent into the washing space, so as to be able to supply a certain amount of detergent into the tub.

[0015] The detergent supply device includes a detergent tank forming a storage space in which detergent is stored, a housing forming a mounting space in which the detergent tank is mounted, a pump mounted on one side of the detergent tank and sending the detergent stored in the storage space to the washing space, and a motor disposed on one side of the housing and operating the pump, so that the detergent stored in the easily mounted detergent tank can be supplied to the tub.

[0016] The door includes an inner door facing the washing space and an outer door positioned outside the inner door. The inner door includes a protrusion on which the housing is disposed and a concave portion disposed closer to the outer door than the protrusion. The housing includes a first housing body, a second housing body disposed on one side of the first housing body, and a stepped portion disposed to form a step between the first housing body and the second housing body. The end of the stepped portion is disposed between a surface formed by the protrusion and a surface formed by the concave portion, so that the load of the detergent tank can be distributed by the stepped portion. In addition, the stepped portion allows the detergent tank to be stably coupled and maintained in the housing.

[0017] The second housing body may be installed with a device that detects the status of the detergent tank or the pump or is linked to the detergent tank or the pump.

[0018] The device may include one of a detection sensor for detecting the operation of the pump, a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the detergent discharged from the detergent tank, and a transmission gear connected to the pump. As the detergent tank is mounted on the housing, the detergent tank and the housing can be organically connected by the device.

[0019] The above second housing body may be located at the lower portion of the above first housing body.

[0020] The above device can protrude from the second housing body in the direction in which the detergent tank is placed.

[0021] The above protrusion includes an installation portion in which an additional detergent supply device is arranged, and the installation portion can be arranged closer to the outer door than the above protrusion.

[0022] The above pump includes a pump tube that is connected to the detergent tank and supplies detergent stored in the detergent tank to the washing space, and a plurality of pressure rollers that are connected to the motor and rotate and pressurize one side of the pump tube, so that the detergent can flow through the pump tube according to the rotation of the pressure rollers. In addition, the pump tube has a part of the region that sends the detergent flowing to the pressure rollers to the discharge port of the detergent tank arranged horizontally, so that even when the motor stops, the detergent in the pump tube is not discharged to the outside.

[0023] The above pump tube includes an extrusion tube arranged in an area in contact with the plurality of pressure rollers, an inlet tube connecting one side of the extrusion tube and the storage space of the detergent tank, and an outlet tube connecting the other side of the extrusion tube and the outlet of the detergent tank, and the outlet tube is arranged parallel to the ground to prevent detergent present in the outlet tube from being discharged to the outlet by gravity or the like.

[0024] The above-mentioned outlet tube is positioned above the above-mentioned inlet tube, so that detergent present in the lower part of the detergent tank can be introduced and discharged.

[0025] The inner diameter of the above pump tube is formed to be 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less, so as to prevent the detergent from hardening inside the pump tube.

[0026] The outer diameter of the above pump tube is formed to be 10 mm or less, so as to prevent the detergent from hardening inside the pump tube.

[0027] The detergent tank includes a connection port connected to the pump arranged on one side, and an inlet passage connecting the storage space and the pump tube and an outlet passage connecting the pump tube and the washing space are formed in the connection port, and the outlet passage is arranged above the inlet passage.

[0028] At one end of the above-mentioned outlet, an outlet opening toward the storage space is formed, and the outlet is positioned upwardly spaced from the above-mentioned inflow channel.

[0029] It further includes a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the detergent discharged through the discharge port, and the temperature sensor is positioned at the lower side of the discharge port, so as to detect the temperature of the detergent discharged through the discharge port.

[0030] A transmission gear that transmits the driving force generated from the motor to the pump is included, and a gear groove is formed in the pump into which a part of the transmission gear is inserted, and when the detergent tank is mounted in the housing, the pump is connected to the motor into which a part of the transmission gear is inserted into the gear groove formed in the pump.

[0031] The motor includes a motor shaft and a motor gear protruding in a screw shape from an outer circumference of the motor shaft, and the transmission gear includes a transmission gear shaft arranged perpendicular to the motor shaft, a first gear arranged on one side of the transmission gear shaft and meshed with the motor gear, and a second gear arranged on the other side of the transmission gear shaft and connected to the pump, so that the pump can be rotated with a small driving force of the motor.

[0032] A floater for detecting the level of detergent stored in the storage space may be included, and the connection port may be positioned at the lower side of the floater.

[0033] The detergent supply device of the dishwasher of the present invention comprises: a detergent tank forming a storage space in which detergent is stored; a housing forming a mounting space in which the detergent tank is mounted; a pump disposed on one side of the detergent tank and sending the detergent stored in the storage space to the washing space; a motor disposed on one side of the housing and operating the pump; and a transmission gear transmitting the driving force of the motor to the pump, so that the driving force of the motor can be transmitted to the pump by the transmission gear. In addition, the motor includes a motor shaft that rotates by driving, and a motor gear that forms a screw-shaped thread on a circumferential surface of the motor shaft, and the transmission gear includes a transmission gear shaft that is disposed perpendicular to the motor shaft, a first gear disposed on one side of the transmission gear shaft and meshing with the motor gear, and a second gear disposed on the other side of the transmission gear shaft and connected to the pump, so that the rotational force of the motor can be transmitted in a vertical direction.

[0034] The pump may include a pump tube that is connected to the detergent tank and forms a space in which the detergent flows, a pressure roller that pressurizes one side of the pump tube to cause the detergent inside the pump tube to flow, and a rotor that has a gear groove formed on one side into which the transmission gear is inserted and that rotates the pressure roller.

[0035] On the inner surface of the above gear home, a plurality of inner projections protruding inward are arranged, and the second gear has a plurality of outer projections protruding in a circumferential direction from the outer surface of the transmission gear shaft, so that the pump and the transmission gear can mesh with each other.

[0036] The thickness formed in the circumferential direction by the plurality of outer protrusions is formed to be smaller than the distance between each of the plurality of outer protrusions, so that the transmission gear can be easily inserted into the gear groove.

[0037] The thickness of each of the plurality of outer projections is formed to be smaller than the distance between each of the plurality of inner projections, so that the transmission gear can be easily inserted into the gear groove.

[0038] The above motor gear has a worm gear shape, and the first gear is formed in a worm wheel shape, so that driving force can be transmitted to a transmission gear arranged in a vertical direction.

[0039] The detergent supply device of the dishwasher of the present invention includes a detergent tank forming a storage space in which detergent is stored, a housing forming a mounting space in which the detergent tank is mounted, a pump disposed on one side of the detergent tank and sending the detergent stored in the storage space to the washing space, and a motor disposed on one side of the housing and operating the pump, wherein the detergent tank includes a tank case forming the storage space inside, an inlet hole formed on one side, and a discharge port formed on the other side, a floater disposed to be movable up and down inside the tank case and detecting a water level of the storage space, and a connection port connected to the pump to discharge the detergent stored in the storage space. The storage space of the housing is divided into an inflow area where the inflow hole is formed, a water level confirmation area located below the inflow area and where the floater is located, and a discharge area located below the water level confirmation area and where the connection port is located, so that the discharge area is located below the water level confirmation area.

[0040] The above pump can be placed on one side of the discharge area to minimize the space collected in the discharge area. In addition, a compact arrangement of the pump and detergent tank can be formed.

[0041] The pump includes a pump tube connected to the detergent tank and supplying detergent stored in the detergent tank to the washing space, and a plurality of pressurizing rollers connected to the motor and rotating to pressurize one side of the pump tube, and the pump tube includes an extrusion tube arranged in an area in contact with the plurality of pressurizing rollers, an inlet tube connecting one side of the extrusion tube and the storage space of the detergent tank, and an outlet tube connecting the other side of the extrusion tube and the outlet of the detergent tank, and the outlet tube is arranged above the inlet tube. The inlet tube may be arranged below to suck detergent in a lower area of ​​the discharge area, and the outlet tube may be arranged horizontally.

[0042] The pump of the present invention comprises a pump tube connected to the detergent tank to supply detergent stored in the detergent tank to the washing space, and a plurality of pressure rollers connected to the motor to rotate and pressurize one side of the pump tube. The detergent supply device includes a detection sensor that detects the operation of the pump, and the detection sensor can be installed in the housing.

[0043] The above detection sensor can be installed at the rear of the housing.

[0044] The housing may have a detection sensor mounting portion that protrudes forward from an area where the detection sensor is disposed. The housing may include a first housing body and a second housing body that is disposed on one side of the first housing body and protrudes outward from the first housing body, and the detection sensor may be installed in the second housing body.

[0045] The above second housing body may protrude lower than the first housing body.

[0046] The above pump includes a magnet that rotates together with the rotation of the pressure roller, and the detection sensor can detect a change in the magnetic force of the magnet to determine the rotation and operating status of the pump.

[0047] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0048] According to the dishwasher of the present invention, one or more of the following effects are achieved.

[0049] First, the detergent tank can be stably positioned while mounted in the housing. Therefore, the connection between the detergent tank and the housing can be maintained stably. Furthermore, the organic connection between the components, which are organically joined when the detergent tank is mounted in the housing, can be maintained stably. This structure has the advantage of ensuring stable operation of the detergent tank and detection by the sensor that detects detergent discharge. Furthermore, the reliability of the organically operating components is enhanced by the connection between the detergent tank and the housing.

[0050] That is, the purpose is to provide a dishwasher in which the detergent tank can be stably attached to the housing even under external impacts.

[0051] Second, the tube located in the area discharged from the pump is arranged horizontally, which has the advantage of minimizing the leakage of detergent present in the tube to the outside even when the pump is stopped rotating.

[0052] Third, there is also the advantage of being able to prevent the detergent from hardening inside the tube by adjusting the diameter of the pump tube placed inside the pump.

[0053] Fourth, a worm gear is used on the motor shaft, which is connected to the motor, transmitting driving power to the pump via a worm-wheel transmission gear. This structure allows for precise pump control, as it allows for precise pump movement even with multiple motor rotations. Furthermore, it allows the pump to operate even with small motor power requirements.

[0054] Fifth, the layout of the pump and motor allows for a compact detergent supply unit. This has the advantage of allowing the detergent supply unit to be placed in a small space.

[0055] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0056] FIG. 1 is a drawing of a dishwasher with the door open according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of a portion of a door in which a detergent supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention is arranged.

[0058] Figure 3 is a perspective view of one side of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention with the detergent tank separated.

[0059] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the other side of the detergent tank of the detergent supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention in a separated state.

[0060] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a detergent tank and pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 6 is a front view of a detergent tank according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of a detergent tank according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a cross-section of one side of a detergent tank according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a flow path inside a connection port according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Fig. 10 is a rear perspective view of a detergent tank with a pump mounted thereon according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] FIG. 12a is a drawing for explaining the internal structure of a pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 12b is a drawing for explaining the internal structure of a pump according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Fig. 13 is a drawing of the pump of Fig. 12a with a transmission gear inserted.

[0070] Figure 14 is an exploded perspective view of a housing and a motor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Fig. 15 is a perspective view illustrating a motor and transmission gear according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a second gear of a transmission gear according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating a motor, a transmission gear, and a pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the connection relationship, etc. when the detergent tank according to one embodiment of the present invention is mounted on a housing.

[0075] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a cross-section of one side of a housing according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing a separated state of a detergent tank and a housing in an area where a temperature sensor is placed according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a detergent tank is mounted on a housing in an area where a temperature sensor is placed according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] FIG. 22a is a drawing schematically showing the arrangement of the first housing body and the second housing body according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] FIG. 22b is a drawing schematically showing the arrangement of the first housing body and the second housing body according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] FIG. 22c is a drawing schematically showing the arrangement of the first housing body and the second housing body according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] FIG. 22d is a drawing schematically showing the arrangement of the first housing body and the second housing body according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0082]

[0083] The advantages and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided only to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Like reference numerals designate like elements throughout the specification.

[0084] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to drawings for explaining a dishwasher according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the overall configuration of the dishwasher and the detergent supply device (100) are described.

[0086] The dishwasher includes a cabinet (12) that forms an exterior and forms a washing space on the inside, a door (10) that opens and closes an open side of the cabinet (12), and a detergent supply device (100, or 'first detergent supply device') that is arranged on the inside of the door (10) and supplies detergent to the washing space.

[0087] The dishwasher may include a tub (14) that forms a space where dishes are washed, a sump (not shown) that is positioned at the bottom of the tub and stores washing water, and a pump (not shown) that supplies washing water stored in the sump to the tub. In addition, the dishwasher may include a spray arm (not shown) that is positioned inside the tub (14) and sprays washing water into the washing space.

[0088] The door (10) includes an outer door (10b) and an inner door (10a). The outer door (10b) is positioned so as to be exposed to the outside when the door (10) closes one side of the cabinet (12). The inner door (10a) can be positioned so as to face the washing space of the tub (14) when the door (10) closes one side of the cabinet (12).

[0089] A separation space can be formed between the inner door (10a) and the outer door (10b). The wall surface formed by the inner door (10a) and the wall surface formed by the outer door (10b) can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other.

[0090] Referring to Fig. 2, the inner door (10a) includes a protrusion (11a) in which a detergent supply device (100) is placed, and a concave portion (11b) that is placed on the lower side of the protrusion (11a) and forms a groove in the direction in which the outer door (10b) is placed.

[0091] The inner door (10a) includes a protrusion (11a) on which a housing (200) is placed, and a concave portion (11b) placed closer to the outer door (10b) than the protrusion (11a).

[0092] The concave portion (11b) can secure a washing space for the tub (14). The area occupied by dishes placed in the washing space can be secured in this area.

[0093] The protrusion (11a) can form a surface that protrudes toward the tub (14) more than the concave portion (11b). Accordingly, a detergent supply device (100) can be placed on the protrusion (11a).

[0094] The protrusion (11a) includes a first installation portion (11a1) where the detergent supply device (100) is placed. The protrusion (11a) may include a second installation portion (11a2) placed on one side of the first installation portion (11a1). The protrusion (11a) may include a third installation portion (11a3) placed on one side of the first installation portion (11a1) or the second installation portion (11a2).

[0095] A detergent supply device (100) is arranged in the first installation part (11a1). A second installation part (11a2) is arranged on one side of the first installation part (11a1) and may be arranged further away from the first installation part (11a1) in the direction of the outer door (10b). A second detergent supply device (101) may be arranged in the second installation part (11a2). The second detergent supply device (101) may be arranged to protrude from the second installation part (11a2).

[0096] A second detergent supply device (101) whose device door (101a) opens during operation of the dishwasher may be arranged in the protrusion (11a). The second detergent supply device (101) may be a detergent supply device that supplies a certain amount of detergent before operation of the dishwasher and discharges the detergent stored inside when the device door (10) opens during operation of the dishwasher. The second detergent supply device (101) may not be structured to be entirely inserted into the gap between the inner door (10a) and the outer door (10b). Accordingly, a part of the second detergent supply device (101) may have a structure that protrudes into the inside of the tub (14). However, the second installation part (11a2) can form a surface that is more concave than the surface formed by the protrusion (11a), thereby minimizing the portion where the second detergent supply device (101) protrudes into the inner space of the tub (14).

[0097] The third installation part (11a3) may be positioned on one side of the second installation part (11a2). The third installation part (11a3) may also form a surface spaced apart in the direction in which the outer door (10b) is positioned. However, the third installation part (11a3) may be positioned closer to the direction in which the tub (14) is positioned than the second installation part (11a2).

[0098] Although not shown in the drawing, an additional detergent supply device (not shown) may be placed in the third installation section. The additional detergent supply device may be a detergent supply device having a similar configuration to the second detergent supply device (101). The third installation section (11a3) may be placed with a structure in which the additional detergent supply device is inserted into the interior. The second installation section (11a2) and the third installation section (11a3) in which the additional detergent supply device is installed may be placed closer to the outer door (10b) than the surface formed by the protrusion (11a).

[0099] Referring to Fig. 2, the detergent supply device (100) is placed inside the door (10). Accordingly, detergent, etc. discharged from the detergent supply device (20) can be fed into the washing space formed inside the cabinet (12). However, as another embodiment, the detergent supply device (100) can be placed in a different part inside the cabinet (12) rather than the door (10). That is, the detergent supply device (100) can also be placed on one side of the tub.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 3, the detergent tank (102) and housing (200) of the detergent supply device (100) are described.

[0101] The detergent supply device (100) includes a detergent tank (102) forming a storage space (103) in which detergent is stored, and a housing (200) in which the detergent tank (102) is mounted. The housing (200) may be placed on one side of the door (10).

[0102] The detergent tank (102) forms a storage space (103) in which detergent is stored. An inlet (110) for injecting detergent into the storage space (103) is formed on one side of the detergent tank (102). An inlet cover (112) for opening and closing the inlet (110) is arranged on one side of the detergent tank (102). The inlet cover (112) may be hinge-fixed to one side of the detergent tank (102).

[0103] A handle (124) may be arranged on one side of the detergent tank (102). The handle (124) may be arranged rotatably on one side of the detergent tank (102). An outlet (122) is formed on one side of the detergent tank (102) through which detergent stored in the storage space (103) is discharged. The outlet (122) is arranged below the inlet (110).

[0104] A sensor cover (120) is placed on one side of the detergent tank (102). The sensor cover (120) prevents the temperature sensor (250) to be described below from being exposed to the outside. The sensor cover (120) is placed on the lower side of the discharge port (122). The sensor cover (120) may have a structure that protrudes from the detergent tank (102).

[0105] A communication hole (118) may be formed on one side of the detergent tank (102). The communication hole (118) may be positioned above the inlet (110).

[0106] The housing (200) can form a mounting space (200a) in which a detergent tank (102) is mounted. The detergent tank (102) is inserted into the mounting space (200a) formed in the housing (200).

[0107] The mounting space (200a) can be formed in a shape corresponding to the part where the detergent tank (102) is mounted.

[0108] In the housing (200), a transmission gear (230) that transmits power to the pump (160) described below is positioned protrudingly. Therefore, when the detergent tank (102) is mounted in the housing (200), one side of the transmission gear (230) can be inserted into the pump (160).

[0109] The housing (200) is arranged so that the temperature sensor (250) protrudes. Therefore, when the detergent tank (102) is mounted on the housing (200), the temperature sensor (250) can be inserted into one side of the detergent tank (102).

[0110] A detection sensor (252) that detects the operation of the pump (160) described below is disposed in the housing (200). The detection sensor (252) may be disposed at the rear of the housing (200). The detection sensor (252) may be disposed to protrude in the direction in which the detergent tank (102) is mounted.

[0111] A step portion (207) is formed in the housing (200). The housing (200) includes a first housing body (204) that forms a space in which a first tank body (106), to be described below, is placed, and a second housing body (206) that forms a space in which a second tank body (108), to be described below, is placed. A step portion (207) is formed between the first housing body (204) and the second housing body (206).

[0112] The housing (200) includes a first housing body (204), a second housing body (206) arranged on one side of the first housing body (204), and a step portion (207) that divides the first housing body (204) and the second housing body (206).

[0113] The detergent tank (102) is also formed with a corresponding step portion (109) corresponding to the step portion (207) of the housing (200). In the detergent tank (102), a corresponding step portion (109) is formed due to the height difference between the first tank body (106) and the second tank body (108) protruding toward the inside of the door (10).

[0114] When the detergent tank (102) is inserted into the housing (200), the corresponding step portion (109) of the detergent tank (102) can be arranged to be caught by the step portion (207) of the housing (200). The above structure can prevent the detergent tank (102) mounted on the housing (200) from moving or shaking inside the housing (200).

[0115] The structure of the step portion (207) of the housing (200) can maintain the stable placement of the temperature sensor (250), transmission gear (230), and detection sensor mounting portion (210) protruding from the housing (200).

[0116] In addition, the step portion (207) can guide the detergent tank (102) inserted into the housing (200). The step portion (207) can guide the temperature sensor (250), the transmitter (230), and the detection sensor mounting portion (210) to be inserted into the correct position of the detergent tank (102).

[0117] This can prevent the temperature sensor (250), the transmitter (230), and the detection sensor mounting portion (210) from being damaged by movement due to external influences during the insertion process of the detergent tank (102) or in the inserted state.

[0118] The end portion (207a) of the step portion (207) can be placed between the surface formed by the protrusion portion (11a) and the surface formed by the concave portion (11b).

[0119] The end (207a) of the step portion (207) may be positioned to protrude outward from the surface formed by the concave portion (11b). In addition, the end (207a) of the step portion (207) may be positioned inward from the surface formed by the protrusion (11a). Here, the end (207a) of the step portion (207) may refer to the end of the portion from which the step portion (207) protrudes. Here, the outside may refer to the direction in which the inner door (10a) is positioned with respect to the outer door (10b), and the inside may refer to the opposite direction to the outside.

[0120] The step portion (207) can perform the function of supporting a portion of the load of the detergent tank (102) by forming a stepped structure as it goes upwards inside the housing (200). Accordingly, even if multiple components are arranged in the detergent tank (102), the step portion (207) supports a portion of the load, thereby increasing the structural stability of the detergent tank (102) mounted on the housing (200).

[0121] A device that detects the detergent tank (102) or is linked to the detergent tank (102) may be placed in the second housing body (206). A device that detects the pump (160) or is linked to the pump (160) may be placed in the second housing body (206).

[0122] The device may be a detection sensor (252), a temperature sensor (250), and a transmission gear (230) described below. The device may be positioned so as to protrude from the second housing body (206) to the area where the detergent tank (102) is positioned.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 4, the detergent tank (102) and housing (200) of the detergent supply device (100) are described.

[0124] A pump (160) is placed on one side of the detergent tank (102). The pump (160) can be mounted on the housing (200) while being coupled with the detergent tank (102).

[0125] The pump (160) is formed with a gear groove (178) into which a transmission gear (230) disposed in the housing (200) is inserted.

[0126] The housing (200) is fixedly arranged on one side of the door (10). The housing (200) may be fixedly arranged on the inner wall of the door (10). The housing (200) may be detachably arranged from the inner wall of the door (10). The inner wall of the door (10) may refer to one side wall of the door that is arranged to face the tub (14) when the door (10) is closed.

[0127] A motor (220) and a motor cover (226) covering the motor (220) may be placed on one side of the housing (200). The motor cover (226) is placed on the lower side of the housing (200). A motor (220) and a transmission gear (230) are placed on the lower side of the housing (200). The motor cover (226) may fix the placement of the motor (220) and the transmission gear (230) placed on the lower side of the housing (200).

[0128] Referring to Fig. 5, the configuration of the detergent tank (102) and the pump (160) is described.

[0129] An inlet (110) and an outlet (122) are formed in the first wall (104) arranged in front of the detergent tank (102). An inlet cover (112) is arranged in the inlet (110). The inlet cover (112) is provided with a cover louver (114) and a cover cap (116). The cover louver (114) can seal between the inlet (110) and the inlet cover (112). The cover cap (116) can fix the cover louver (114) to the inlet cover (112).

[0130] A floater (128) may be placed inside the detergent tank (102). The floater (128) may move up and down depending on the amount of detergent stored inside the detergent tank (102). The level of detergent present in the storage space (103) can be checked according to the position of the floater (128) through a separate water level detection sensor (not shown).

[0131] A pump (160) is arranged on one side of the detergent tank (102). The pump (160) can send the detergent stored in the detergent tank (102) to the washing space of the tub (14). The pump (160) is fixedly arranged on one side of the detergent tank (102). The pump (160) is mounted in the housing (200) together with the detergent tank (102).

[0132] When the detergent tank (102) and pump (160) are mounted in the housing (200), they are connected to a motor (220) that operates the pump (160).

[0133] Referring to Fig. 6, the front part of the detergent tank (102) will be described.

[0134] A first wall (104) is positioned in a direction exposed toward the tub (14) in the detergent tank (102). The first wall (104) forms a surface exposed to the outside when the detergent tank (102) is mounted in the housing (200).

[0135] The first wall (104) can be positioned to face the washing space inside the tub (14) when the door (10) is closed.

[0136] A handle (124) is arranged on the first wall (104). The handle (124) is rotatably arranged on the first wall (104). The user can separate the detergent tank (102) from the housing (200) through the handle (124).

[0137] A communication hole (118) is formed in the first wall (104). The communication hole (118) is positioned above the inlet (110).

[0138] On the first wall (104), an inlet (110) and an inlet cover (112) covering the inlet (110) are arranged. The inlet (110) is arranged above the outlet (122). The inlet cover (112) is rotatably arranged on the first wall (104). The inlet cover (112) can open and close the inlet (110). A user can open the inlet (110) and inject detergent into the inlet (110).

[0139] A discharge port (122) may be formed in the first wall (104). The discharge port (122) is positioned below the inlet port (110). The discharge port (122) may be positioned at a certain distance upward from the lower end of the first wall (104).

[0140] A sensor cover (120) covering a temperature sensor (250) to be described below is disposed on the first wall (104). The sensor cover (120) is disposed on the lower side of the discharge port (122). The sensor cover (120) is disposed on the lower side of the discharge port (122) in the vertical direction. Therefore, detergent discharged from the discharge port (122) can pass the sensor cover (120) while falling along the first wall (104).

[0141] The detergent discharged from the outlet (122) passes through the sensor cover (120), and the temperature sensor (250) can detect the temperature change.

[0142] The sensor cover (120) may be formed of a thermally conductive material. Therefore, temperature changes resulting from detergent contacting the sensor cover (120) can be quickly detected. The sensor cover (120) may be formed of a metal material with high thermal conductivity. The sensor cover (120) may be formed of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as iron or aluminum.

[0143] The sensor cover (120) may be positioned to protrude forward from the first wall (104). The sensor cover (120) may have a forwardly convex shape.

[0144] The gap (L1) between the sensor cover (120) and the outlet (122) in the vertical direction may be formed smaller than the gap (L2) between the inlet (110) and the outlet (122). The gap (L1) between the sensor cover (120) and the outlet (122) may be formed to be 0.5 to 2 times the diameter size (120D) of the sensor cover (120).

[0145] Referring to Fig. 7, the rear part of the detergent tank (102) is described.

[0146] The detergent tank (102) includes a tank body (106, 108) that protrudes toward the rear of the first wall (104) to form a storage space (103). The tank body includes a first tank body (106) and a second tank body (108) that is arranged below the first tank body (106).

[0147] The first tank body (106) is placed on the upper side of the second tank body (108). The first tank body (106) has a structure that protrudes rearward from the second tank body (108).

[0148] The length formed by the second tank body (108) in the left-right direction is formed to be smaller than the length formed by the first tank body (106) in the left-right direction. The length formed by the second tank body (108) in the vertical direction is formed to be smaller than the length formed by the first tank body (106) in the vertical direction. The length formed by the second tank body (108) in the front-back direction is formed to be smaller than the length formed by the first tank body (106) in the front-back direction.

[0149] The second tank body (108) forms a storage space smaller than the first tank body (106). A pump (160) is connected to one side of the second tank body (108). A space in which the pump (160) is placed is formed on one side of the second tank body (108).

[0150] The second tank body (108) includes a connection port (140) to which a pump (160) is connected.

[0151] The connection port (140) is provided with an inlet port (142) connected to one side of the pump (160) and an outlet port (144) connected to the other side of the pump (160). The inlet port (142) connects the inside of the detergent tank (102) and the pump (160). The outlet port (144) connects the pump (160) and the outlet (122).

[0152] The inlet port (142) is positioned lower than the outlet port (144). Each of the inlet port (142) and the outlet port (144) is positioned to protrude in the direction in which the pump (160) is positioned. The inlet port (142) is connected to the inlet tube (170) of the pump (160) which will be described below.

[0153] The outlet port (144) sends the detergent flowing from the pump (160) to the tub (14) through the outlet (122). The outlet port (144) is connected to the outlet tube (172) of the pump (160) which will be described below.

[0154] An inflow path (146) connecting the pump (160) and the storage space (103) may be formed inside the connection port (140). An outflow path (148) connecting the pump (160) and the outside of the detergent tank (102) may be formed inside the connection port (140).

[0155] A sensor home (152) into which a temperature sensor (250) is inserted is formed in the connection port (140). The sensor home (152) can be positioned between the vertical direction where the inlet port (142) and the outlet port (144) are positioned. The sensor home (152) can be formed in the front-back direction.

[0156] The sensor home (152) includes a first sensor home (152a) into which a temperature sensor (250) is inserted, and a second sensor home (152b) into which a sensor mounting portion (208) surrounding a portion of the temperature sensor (250) to be described below is inserted. The second sensor home (152b) may be formed larger than the first sensor home (152a).

[0157] The first sensor home (152a) can be formed inward from the position where the second sensor home (152b) is formed.

[0158] A fastening boss (126) to which a pump (160) or a pump cover (184) is fastened may be placed on one side of the rear of the first wall (104).

[0159] Referring to Fig. 8, the internal configuration of the detergent tank (102) and the interior of the connection port (140) are described.

[0160] A floater (128) is placed inside the detergent tank (102). The floater (128) can move up and down depending on the amount of detergent stored inside the storage space (103). The interior of the floater (128) may be formed hollow.

[0161] A guide bar (130) formed vertically to guide the movement of the floater (128) may be placed inside the detergent tank (102). A guide protrusion (132) may be placed inside the detergent tank (102) to limit the upward movement of the floater (128).

[0162] The interior of the first tank body (106) is divided into an inlet area (103a) where an inlet port (110) is formed, and a water level confirmation area (103b) where a floater (128) is arranged. A storage space within the second tank body (108) is formed on one side of the area where the connection port (140) is arranged. Inside the second tank body (108), a discharge area (103c) connected to a pump (160) is formed below the water level confirmation area.

[0163] In the connection port (140), an inflow channel (146) and an outflow channel (148) are formed. The outflow channel (148) is banded and extends forward. The outflow channel (148) leads to an outlet (122) located forward.

[0164] The outlet channel (148) is positioned above the inlet channel (146). A sensor home (152) is positioned between the outlet channel (148) and the inlet channel (146). A sensor cover (120) is positioned in front of the sensor home (152). The sensor cover (120) may have a shape that protrudes forward. The sensor cover (120) is positioned below the outlet (122).

[0165] Referring to Fig. 9, the structure of the inflow path (146) is described.

[0166] The connection port (140) is arranged on one side of the space formed by the second tank body (108). An inlet port (142) and an outlet port (144) are arranged to protrude in the direction in which the pump (160) is arranged in the connection port (140). An inlet passage (146) may be formed inside the inlet port (142). An outlet passage (148) may be formed inside the outlet port (144).

[0167] An inner pipe (150) is arranged inside the second tank body (108). The inner pipe (150) extends from the connection port (140) to the inside and lower side of the second tank body (108). Accordingly, detergent present in the lower region of the second tank body (108) can be discharged to the pump (160).

[0168] The inflow path extends into the inner pipe (150). Therefore, the inflow path (146) has a structure that bends downwards inside the second tank body (108).

[0169] A sensor home (152) into which a temperature sensor (250) is inserted is formed in the second tank body (108). The sensor home (152) is positioned between the inlet channel (146) and the outlet channel (148) in the vertical direction.

[0170] Referring to Fig. 10, the pump (160) and pump cover (184) mounted on the detergent tank (102) are described.

[0171] The pump (160) is placed on one side of the detergent tank (102). The pump (160) is connected to the detergent tank (102) and sends the detergent stored in the detergent tank (102) to the tub (14).

[0172] The pump (160) is formed with a gear groove (178) in the rear surface into which a transmission gear (230) is inserted. The pump (160) is formed with a detection sensor groove (152) in which a detection sensor (252) for detecting the operation of the pump (160) is placed.

[0173] The pump cover (184) can fix the arrangement of the pump (160). The pump cover (184) is fixedly arranged on the detergent tank (102). A fastening hole (188) is formed in the pump cover (184) to be fastened to the detergent tank (102) using a separate fastening means.

[0174] A pump hole (186) is formed in the pump cover (184) so ​​that one side of the pump (160) is exposed.

[0175] When the pump (160) and pump cover (184) are mounted on the detergent tank (102), the pump cover (184) can form the same surface as the second tank body (108).

[0176] The length of the second tank body (108) protruding rearward from the first wall (104) can be formed to be the same as the length of the pump cover (184) mounted on the detergent tank (102) protruding rearward from the first wall (104).

[0177] Referring to FIG. 11, FIG. 12a, and FIG. 12b, the pump (160) is described.

[0178] The pump (160) includes a pump tube (166) connected to a detergent tank (102) and a plurality of pressurizing rollers (174) that pressurize and rotate the pump tube (166). The pump (160) includes a rotor (176) that rotates the plurality of pressurizing rollers (174). The pump (160) includes a pump housing (162) that fixes the arrangement of the pump tube (166).

[0179] A rotor (176) is rotatably arranged in a pump housing (162). A gear groove (178) into which a transmission gear (230) is inserted is formed inside the rotor (176). A plurality of inner protrusions (180) are arranged on the inner surface of the rotor (176) where the gear groove (178) is formed. The plurality of inner protrusions (180) are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The plurality of inner protrusions (180) may have a hemispherical shape.

[0180] The rotor (176) is connected to the transmission gear (230) and rotates. The rotor (176) rotates a plurality of pressure rollers (174).

[0181] The pump (160) includes a magnet (182) that rotates by a rotor (176). The magnet (182) may be placed between a plurality of pressure rollers (174), as shown in FIG. 12a. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 12b, the magnet may be placed on any one of the plurality of pressure rollers (174).

[0182] The magnet (182) rotates together with the pressure roller (174).

[0183] The pump housing (162) fixes the pump tube (166). A protruding fixing projection (164) is arranged on the pump housing (162) to fix one side of the pump tube (166).

[0184] The pump tube (166) is connected to one side of the detergent tank (102). The pump tube (166) is connected to the inlet port (142) on one side and to the outlet port (144) on the other side.

[0185] The pump tube (166) includes an extrusion tube (168) arranged in an area in contact with a plurality of pressure rollers (174), an inlet tube connected to one side of the extrusion tube (168) and each of the inlet ports (142) of the detergent tank (102), and an outlet tube (172) connected to the other side of the extrusion tube (168) and each of the outlet ports (144) of the detergent tank (102).

[0186] The extruded tube (168) may have a banded shape. The extruded tube (168) is placed inside the pump housing (162).

[0187] The outlet tube (172) is positioned above the inlet tube (170). The outlet tube (172) is positioned parallel to the ground. Therefore, even if the pump (160) stops operating, the detergent positioned in the outlet tube (172) is not discharged through the outlet.

[0188] The inner diameter of the pump tube (166) may be formed to be 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less. When the inner diameter of the pump tube (166) is less than 1 mm, the amount of detergent discharged through the pump (160) may be formed to be very small. In addition, when the inner diameter of the pump tube (166) is less than 1 mm, the detergent placed inside the pump tube (166) may harden quickly.

[0189] In addition, if the outer diameter of the pump tube (166) exceeds 5 mm, a problem may occur in which the pressure roller (174) does not operate when the detergent placed inside the pump tube (166) hardens.

[0190] The outer diameter of the pump tube (166) may be formed to be 10 mm or less. When the outer diameter of the pump tube (166) exceeds 10 mm, the inner diameter of the pump tube (166) may exceed 5 mm. In addition, when the outer diameter of the pump tube (166) exceeds 10 mm, if the inner diameter of the pump tube (166) does not exceed 5 mm, the thickness of the pump tube (166) may become too thick, which may cause a problem in that pressurization by the pressurizing roller (174) cannot be smoothly performed.

[0191] Referring to Fig. 13, the state in which the transmission gear (230) is mounted in the gear home (178) is described.

[0192] When the detergent tank (102) is mounted in the housing (200), one side of the transmission gear (230) is inserted into the gear groove (178).

[0193] The second gear (236) of the transmission gear (230) described below is arranged between a plurality of inner projections (180). The plurality of outer projections (238) formed by the second gear (236) may have a structure that protrudes radially outward from the transmission gear shaft (232) formed by the transmission gear (230).

[0194] The thickness of each of the plurality of outer protrusions (238) is formed to be smaller than the distance between each of the plurality of inner protrusions (180). When the detergent tank (102) is mounted on the housing (200), the plurality of outer protrusions (238) can be naturally arranged between the plurality of inner protrusions (180).

[0195] Referring to Fig. 14, the configuration of the housing (200) and the motor (220) is described.

[0196] The housing (200) can be mounted on the door (10).

[0197] The housing (200) forms a mounting space (200a) in which the detergent tank (102) is mounted. The housing (200) may have a structure corresponding to the shape of the first tank body (106) and the second tank body (108) of the detergent tank (102).

[0198] On one side of the housing (200), a first sealer (240) may be placed to seal between the housing (200) and the detergent tank (102). On the other side of the housing (200), a second sealer (242) may be placed to seal between the housing (200) and the door (10).

[0199] In the housing (200), a temperature sensor (250) is placed to detect the temperature of the detergent discharged from the discharge port (122).

[0200] In the housing (200), a detection sensor (252) is placed to detect the rotation of the rotor (176) when the pump (160) operates. The detection sensor (252) may use a Hall sensor that detects a magnet (182).

[0201] A water level sensor (254) that checks the position of the floater (128) may be placed in the housing (200). The water level sensor (254) can detect the water level of the detergent tank (102) by checking the gap between the floater (128) placed in the detergent tank (102).

[0202] A mounting detection sensor (256) that detects whether the detergent tank (102) is mounted may be placed in the housing (200). A magnet (not shown) may be placed inside the detergent tank (102). Accordingly, by detecting the magnet placed in the detergent tank (102), the mounting detection sensor (256) can detect whether the detergent tank (102) is mounted.

[0203] A motor (220), a transmission gear (230), and a motor cover (226) are arranged on one side of the housing (200). The motor (220) is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the transmission gear (230). The motor cover (226) arranges the motor (220) on one side of the housing (200).

[0204] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the configuration of the motor (220) and transmission gear (230) is described.

[0205] The motor (220) rotates the motor shaft (222) by driving. A motor gear (224) protruding in a screw shape is arranged on the outer circumference of the motor shaft (222). The motor gear (224) may have the form of a worm gear.

[0206] The motor shaft (222) is arranged to extend in the left-right direction. Therefore, the space occupied by the cylindrical motor (220) in the front-back direction can be minimized.

[0207] The transmission gear (230) includes a transmission gear shaft (232) arranged perpendicular to the motor shaft (222), a first gear (234) arranged on one side of the transmission gear shaft (232) and meshed with the motor gear (224), and a second gear (236) arranged on the other side of the transmission gear shaft (232) and rotating the rotor (176).

[0208] The transmission gear (230) is arranged on the upper side of the motor shaft (222). Unlike the drawing, the transmission gear (230) may also be arranged on the lower side of the motor shaft (222).

[0209] The first gear (234) is arranged to mesh with the motor gear (224). The first gear (234) can convert the driving force of the motor (220) into a vertical direction by meshing with the motor gear (224).

[0210] The second gear (236) can be inserted into a gear groove (178) formed in the pump (160). The second gear (236) has a plurality of outer projections (238) arranged so as to protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the transmission gear shaft (232) and are spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

[0211] The number of the plurality of outer protrusions (238) can be formed to be the same as the number of the plurality of inner protrusions (180) arranged on the rotor (176). Referring to Fig. 16, the thickness (238t) formed by the plurality of outer protrusions (238) in the circumferential direction is formed to be smaller than the spacing (L3) at which the plurality of outer protrusions (238) are spaced from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0212] Each of the plurality of outer projections (238) can be formed to extend in a long direction in which the transmission gear shaft (232) extends.

[0213] Referring to Fig. 17, the arrangement between the motor (220), the transmission gear (230), and the pump (160) and the operation of the pump (160) are described.

[0214] The motor shaft (222) is arranged perpendicular to the transmission gear shaft (232). The rotor (176) of the pump (160) rotates with the transmission gear shaft (232) as its center of rotation.

[0215] The second gear (236) of the transmission gear (230) is inserted into the gear groove (178) of the pump (160). The motor shaft (222) is arranged perpendicular to the transmission gear shaft (232). The rotor (176) of the pump (160) rotates with the transmission gear shaft (232) as its center of rotation.

[0216] The motor shaft (222) rotates due to the operation of the motor (220), and the second gear (236) that engages with the motor gear (224) rotates.

[0217] The motor gear (224) has a worm gear structure, and the second gear (236) has a structure corresponding to a worm wheel. Therefore, as the motor shaft (222) rotates multiple times by the operation of the motor (220), the second gear (236) can rotate partially. That is, precise control of the pump (160) by the motor (220) is possible. In addition, the pump (160) can be driven even with a small force of the motor (220). Therefore, even if the motor (220) is used in a small size and specification, the pump (160) can be operated precisely.

[0218] Referring to Fig. 18, the arrangement of the transmission gear (230) when the detergent tank (102) is mounted in the housing (200) is described.

[0219] When the detergent tank (102) is mounted on the housing (200), a first sealer (240) is placed between the detergent tank (102) and the housing (200).

[0220] When the detergent tank (102) is mounted in the housing (200), the floater (128) is placed above the water level sensor (254).

[0221] When the detergent tank (102) is mounted on the housing (200), the transmission gear (230) is inserted into the gear groove (178). When the detergent tank (102) is mounted on the housing (200), the second gear (236) of the transmission gear (230) is inserted into the gear groove (178).

[0222] When the detergent tank (102) is mounted in the housing (200), a detection sensor (252) is placed on the lower side of the pump (160).

[0223] The detection sensor (252) is placed on the lower side of the pump (160) and can detect the magnet (182) placed on the pump (160). The detection sensor (252) can detect whether the pump (160) is operating by detecting the magnet (182) placed on the pump (160).

[0224] Referring to Fig. 19, the structure of the housing (200) and the arrangement of the temperature sensor are described.

[0225] The housing (200) forms a mounting space (200a) in which a detergent tank (102) is placed.

[0226] The housing (200) includes a frame wall (202), a first housing body (204) protruding rearward from the frame wall (202), and a second housing body (206) protruding rearward from the frame wall (202) and positioned below the first housing body (204).

[0227] A first sealer (240) is placed in front of the border wall (202). A second sealer (242) is placed in the rear of the border wall (202). The border wall (202) forms a space into which a detergent tank (102) is inserted.

[0228] The first housing body (204) forms a space in which the first tank body (106) is placed. The second housing body (206) forms a space in which the second tank body (108) is placed. The second housing body (206) is placed to protrude outward from the first housing body (204). Here, the outward may refer to the direction in which the surface exposed to the outside faces. Here, the outward may refer to the direction in which the detergent tank (102) is placed. The space formed by the second tank body (108) may be formed to be smaller than the space formed by the first tank body (106).

[0229] A motor (220) is arranged at the rear of the second housing body (206). A temperature sensor (250) is arranged at the rear of the second housing body (206). A water level sensor (254) is arranged at the rear of the second housing body (206). The water level sensor (254) is arranged above the temperature sensor (250).

[0230] The second housing body (206) has a sensor mounting portion (208) in which a temperature sensor (250) is mounted. The sensor mounting portion (208) has a structure that protrudes forward from the second housing body (206). The sensor mounting portion (208) protrudes forward with a width greater than the width formed by the temperature sensor (250).

[0231] The temperature sensor (250) is positioned so as to protrude forward from the sensor mounting portion (208).

[0232] A detection sensor (252) (see Fig. 18) is arranged at the rear of the second housing body (206). A detection sensor mounting portion (210) protruding forward from the area where the detection sensor (252) is arranged is arranged at one side of the second housing body (206).

[0233] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the arrangement of the temperature sensor (250) when the detergent tank (102) is mounted in the housing (200) is described.

[0234] When the detergent tank (102) is mounted on the housing (200), the temperature sensor (250) is inserted into the first sensor home (152a). When the detergent tank (102) is mounted on the housing (200), the sensor mounting portion (208) is inserted into the second sensor home (152b).

[0235] When the detergent tank (102) is mounted in the housing (200), one side of the temperature sensor (250) is placed in contact with the sensor cover (120).

[0236] The temperature sensor (250) is positioned on the lower side of the outlet (148). The temperature sensor (250) is positioned on the lower side of the discharge port (122). The sensor cover (120) is positioned to protrude forward of the detergent tank (102). The sensor cover (120) is positioned on the lower side of the discharge port (122).

[0237] The temperature sensor (250) is placed between the outflow path (148) and the inflow path (146).

[0238] When the detergent tank (102) is mounted in the housing (200), the water level sensor (254) is placed on the lower side of the floater (128). Therefore, the water level sensor (254) can detect the water level of the detergent tank (102) by detecting the gap between it and the floater (128).

[0239] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 22a to 22d, the shapes of the first housing body (204) and the second housing body (206) of the housing according to various embodiments of the present invention will be described.

[0240] Referring to FIG. 22a, the housing (200) according to the first embodiment has a first housing body (204) positioned above a second housing body (206). This may have the same form as the housing (200) described in FIGS. 3, 14, and 19. Accordingly, a step (207) may be formed between the first housing body (204) and the second housing body (206).

[0241] Depending on the shape of the housing (200), the shape of the detergent tank (102) may also vary accordingly. That is, the first tank body (106) may be placed in the area where the first housing body (204) is formed, and the second tank body (108) may be placed in the area where the second housing body (206) is formed.

[0242] Referring to Fig. 22b, it is also possible for the second housing body (206) to be positioned above the first housing body (204). A step (207) is also formed between the first housing body (204) and the second housing body (206). In this case, the first tank body (106) of the detergent tank (102) may be positioned lower than the second tank body (108).

[0243] Referring to Fig. 22c, the first housing body (204) and the second housing body (206) can be arranged on both sides. The step portion (207) that divides the first housing body (204) and the second housing body (206) can be formed in the vertical direction.

[0244] Referring to FIG. 22d, the second housing body (206) may be placed in a region of the lower portion of the first housing body (204). By minimizing the region where the second housing body (206) is placed, the space for detergent stored in the detergent tank (102) can be secured to the maximum extent. At this time, the step portion (207) may be formed in a 'ㄷ' shape, as shown in the drawing.

[0245] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications may be made by a person skilled in the art without departing from the gist of the present invention as claimed in the claims. Furthermore, such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or prospect of the present invention.

Claims

1. A tub with one side open and forming a washing space in which dishes are placed inside; A door arranged on one side of the tub and opening and closing the open side of the tub; Includes a detergent supply device that supplies detergent to the above washing space, The above detergent supply device, A detergent tank forming a storage space where detergent is stored; A housing forming a mounting space in which the detergent tank is mounted; A pump mounted on one side of the detergent tank and sending detergent stored in the storage space to the washing space; and comprising a motor for operating the above pump; The above door includes an inner door arranged to face the washing space when the door is closed, The inner door includes a concave portion and a protrusion that protrudes toward the tub from the concave portion, and the housing is arranged on one side of the protrusion. The housing includes a first housing body forming a first mounting space, a second housing body formed on one side of the first housing body and having a different depth from the first mounting space, and a step portion formed between the first housing body and the second housing body to form a step. A dishwasher in which the end of the step portion is positioned between the surface formed by the protrusion portion and the surface formed by the concave portion.

2. In paragraph 1, A dishwasher in which the second housing body is installed with a device that detects the status of the detergent tank or the pump or is linked with the detergent tank or the pump.

3. In paragraph 2, The device is a dishwasher including one of a detection sensor for detecting the operation of the pump, a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of detergent discharged from the detergent tank, and a transmission gear connected to the pump.

4. In paragraph 1, A dishwasher wherein the second housing body is located below the first housing body.

5. In paragraph 2, The above device is a dishwasher in which the detergent tank protrudes from the second housing body in the direction in which it is placed.

6. In paragraph 1, The above door includes an outer door located outside the inner door, A dishwasher wherein the protrusion includes an installation portion in which an additional detergent supply device is arranged, and the installation portion is arranged closer to the outer door than the protrusion.

7. In paragraph 1, The above pump, A pump tube connected to the detergent tank and supplying the detergent stored in the detergent tank to the washing space, It includes a plurality of pressurizing rollers that are connected to the above motor and rotate and pressurize one side of the pump tube, A dishwasher in which the pump tube is arranged horizontally in a portion of the area that sends the detergent flowing through the pressurized roller to the discharge port of the detergent tank.

8. In paragraph 1, Includes a transmission gear that transmits the driving force generated from the above motor to the above pump, In the above pump, a gear groove is formed into which a part of the transmission gear is inserted, A dishwasher in which a part of the transmission gear is inserted into the gear groove formed in the pump when the detergent tank is mounted in the housing and connected to the motor.

9. In paragraph 8, The above motor includes a motor shaft and a motor gear protruding in a screw shape from the outer circumference of the motor shaft, A dishwasher, wherein the transmission gear includes a transmission gear shaft arranged perpendicularly to the motor shaft, a first gear arranged on one side of the transmission gear shaft and meshed with the motor gear, and a second gear arranged on the other side of the transmission gear shaft and connected to the pump.

10. A tub with one side open and forming a washing space in which dishes are placed inside; A door arranged on one side of the tub and opening and closing the open side of the tub; Includes a detergent supply device that supplies detergent to the above washing space, The above detergent supply device, A detergent tank forming a storage space where detergent is stored; A housing forming a mounting space in which the detergent tank is mounted; A pump arranged on one side of the detergent tank and sending the detergent stored in the storage space to the washing space; and A motor disposed on one side of the housing and operating the pump; Including a transmission gear that transmits the driving force of the above motor to the above pump, The above motor includes a motor shaft that rotates by driving, and a motor gear that forms a screw-shaped thread on the circumference of the motor shaft. A dishwasher, wherein the transmission gear includes a transmission gear shaft arranged perpendicularly to the motor shaft, a first gear arranged on one side of the transmission gear shaft and meshed with the motor gear, and a second gear arranged on the other side of the transmission gear shaft and connected to the pump.

11. In Article 10, The above pump, A pump tube connected to the detergent tank and forming a space through which the detergent flows; A pressurizing roller that pressurizes one side of the pump tube to cause the detergent inside the pump tube to flow, A dishwasher comprising a rotor that rotates the pressure roller and has a gear groove formed on one side into which the transmission gear is inserted.

12. In paragraph 11, On the inner surface of the above gear home, a plurality of inner projections protruding inward are arranged, A dishwasher in which the second gear has a plurality of outer projections that protrude and are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction from the outer surface of the transmission gear shaft.

13. In paragraph 12, A dishwasher in which the thickness formed by the plurality of outer protrusions in the circumferential direction is formed smaller than the interval between each of the plurality of outer protrusions.

14. In paragraph 12, A dishwasher in which the thickness of each of the plurality of outer protrusions is formed smaller than the interval between each of the plurality of inner protrusions.

15. A tub with one side open and forming a washing space in which dishes are placed inside; A door arranged on one side of the tub and opening and closing the open side of the tub; Includes a detergent supply device that supplies detergent to the above washing space, The above detergent supply device, A detergent tank forming a storage space where detergent is stored; A housing forming a mounting space in which the detergent tank is mounted; A pump arranged on one side of the detergent tank and sending the detergent stored in the storage space to the washing space; and A motor is disposed on one side of the housing and operates the pump; The above pump, A pump tube connected to the detergent tank and supplying the detergent stored in the detergent tank to the washing space, It includes a plurality of pressurizing rollers that are connected to the above motor and rotate and pressurize one side of the pump tube, A dishwasher wherein the detergent supply device includes a detection sensor that detects the operation of the pump, and the detection sensor is installed in the housing.

16. In paragraph 15, A dishwasher wherein the above detection sensor is installed at the rear of the housing.

17. In paragraph 16, A dishwasher in which the housing has a sensor mounting portion that protrudes forward from an area where the sensor is placed.

18. In paragraph 15, A dishwasher in which the housing includes a first housing body and a second housing body positioned on one side of the first housing body and protruding outward from the first housing body, and the detection sensor is installed in the second housing body.

19. In paragraph 18, A dishwasher in which the second housing body protrudes lower than the first housing body.

20. In paragraph 15, A dishwasher in which the pump includes a magnet that rotates together with the rotation of the pressure roller, and the detection sensor detects a change in the magnetic force of the magnet to determine the rotation and operating status of the pump.

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