Dishwasher and method for controlling same

Abstract

A dishwasher according to an embodiment includes: a cabinet: a tub arranged in the cabinet; a sump provided below the tub; a deionization device that generates soft water by using raw water supplied from a water supply source and supplies the soft water to the sump; a plurality of flow paths through which the raw water, the soft water, and the used water collected in the sump flows; a plurality of valves provided in the plurality of flow paths, respectively; and a control unit that controls the plurality of valves, to perform regeneration of the deionization device by using the raw water or the used water in at least one of a washing operation and a rinsing operation.

Description

Dishwasher and its control method

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a dishwasher and a method of controlling the same.

[0002] Typically, a dishwasher is a device that sprays high-pressure water onto stored dishes, washing them and then drying them. Dishwashers operate by spraying high-pressure water into the dishwashing tub, where the dishes are stored. This water then contacts the dishes, washing away any food particles and other foreign substances on their surfaces.

[0003] Specifically, a dishwasher comprises a tub, which forms a washing tank, and a sump mounted on the bottom of the tub to store water. The pumping action of a washing pump mounted inside the sump moves water to a spray nozzle, and the water moved to the spray nozzle is sprayed at high pressure through a nozzle formed at the end of the spray nozzle. As the high-pressure water hits the surface of dishes, contaminants such as food scraps on the dishes fall to the bottom of the tub.

[0004] Dishwashers may include a deionization device that can convert raw water supplied from the water source into soft water. The deionization device can produce soft water by adsorbing ionic substances contained in the raw water. Because deionization devices have limited adsorption capacity due to electrostatic capacitance, they require periodic regeneration.

[0005] The disclosed invention provides a dishwasher and a control method thereof capable of regenerating a deionization device using raw water supplied from a water source or water used for dishwashing without a separate tank.

[0006] The disclosed invention provides a dishwasher and a control method thereof capable of performing regeneration of a deionizing device while a washing cycle for washing dishes is being performed.

[0007] According to one embodiment, a dishwasher comprises: a cabinet; a tub disposed within the cabinet; a sump provided at a lower portion of the tub; a deionizing device that generates soft water using raw water supplied from a water source and supplies the soft water to the sump; a plurality of passages including at least one of a pipe and a hose, through which the raw water, the soft water, and used water collected in the sump flow; a plurality of valves provided in each of the plurality of passages; and a control unit including at least one processor, the control unit controlling the plurality of valves to perform regeneration of the deionizing device using the raw water or the used water in at least one of a washing cycle and a rinsing cycle.

[0008] A control method for a dishwasher comprising a tub, a sump provided at a lower portion of the tub, a deionizer that generates soft water using raw water supplied from a water source and supplies the soft water to the sump, a plurality of passages including at least one of the raw water, a pipe, and a hose and through which the soft water and used water collected in the sump flow, and a control unit including at least one processor, in one embodiment of the control method, includes: supplying the soft water to the sump to wash dishes positioned in the tub by controlling a plurality of valves provided in the deionizer and the plurality of passages by the control unit in a washing cycle and a rinsing cycle; and performing regeneration of the deionizer by using the raw water or the used water by controlling the plurality of valves by the control unit in at least one of the washing cycle and the rinsing cycle.

[0009] The disclosed dishwasher and its control method can regenerate a deionizing device using raw water supplied from a water source or water used for dishwashing, without a separate water tank. The disclosed dishwasher can have a relatively compact structure, and the omission of a water tank facilitates sanitary management of the dishwasher. Furthermore, by using water used for dishwashing to regenerate the deionizing device, the use of raw water can be reduced.

[0010] The disclosed dishwasher and its control method can perform regeneration of the deionization device while a washing cycle for washing dishes is being performed. Since dishwashing and regeneration of the deionization device can be performed simultaneously, additional time for regenerating the deionization device is unnecessary, and user convenience can be improved.

[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-section of a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the interior of a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating some configurations of a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates a sump, deionizer, and case break of a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0015] Figure 5 illustrates the interior of a case brake according to various embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a dishwasher including various flow paths and various valves according to various embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a dishwasher including various flow paths and various valves according to various embodiments.

[0018] Figure 8 illustrates the principle of producing soft water by a deionization device according to various embodiments.

[0019] Figure 9 illustrates the principle of regenerating a deionization device according to various embodiments.

[0020] Fig. 10 is a control block diagram of a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0021] Figure 11 is a table illustrating the operation of various valves included in a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0022] Figure 12 illustrates a water softening path for supplying water to the sump during the washing and rinsing cycles.

[0023] Figure 13 illustrates a drainage path for discharging used water to the outside during the washing and rinsing cycles.

[0024] Figure 14 illustrates the flow path used when regenerating a deionization device using raw water.

[0025] Figure 15 illustrates the flow path used when regenerating a deionization device using used water.

[0026] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating the entire process performed by a dishwasher to wash dishes according to various embodiments.

[0027] FIG. 17 illustrates one embodiment of a control method of a dishwasher performed to regenerate a deionizing device in the washing and rinsing cycles described in FIG. 16.

[0028] FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment added to the control method of a dishwasher described in FIG. 17.

[0029] FIG. 19 illustrates one embodiment of a control method of a dishwasher performed to regenerate a deionizing device in the rinsing cycle described in FIG. 16.

[0030] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely preferred examples of the disclosed invention, and there may be various modified examples that can replace the embodiments and drawings of this specification at the time of filing of this application.

[0031] The same reference numbers or symbols used in each drawing of this specification represent parts or components that perform substantially the same functions. The shapes and sizes of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0032] Throughout this specification, when a part is said to be "connected" to another part, this includes not only a direct connection but also an indirect connection, and an indirect connection includes a connection via a wireless communication network or a connection via another part.

[0033] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments and is not intended to limit and / or restrict the disclosed invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this specification, the terms "comprises" or "has" and the like are intended to indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0034] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., used herein may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms, and the terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be referred to as the second component, and similarly, the second component may also be referred to as the first component. The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related listed items or any item among a plurality of related listed items.

[0035] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0036] Additionally, terms such as "~part", "~device", "~block", "~absence", and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the terms may refer to at least one piece of hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) / ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one piece of software stored in memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0037] The symbols attached to each step are used to identify each step and do not indicate the order of the steps, and the steps may be performed in a different order than stated unless the context clearly indicates a specific order.

[0038] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates a side cross-section of a dishwasher according to various embodiments. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the interior of a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0040] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the dishwasher (1) may include a main body (10) forming an exterior. The main body (10) may include a cabinet (11) forming the exterior of the dishwasher, and a tub (12) provided inside the cabinet (11). The tub (12) may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape, but is not limited thereto. One side of the tub (12) may be open. That is, the tub (12) may have an opening (12a). As an example, the front side of the tub (12) may be open.

[0041] The dishwasher (1) may further include a door (20) provided to open and close the opening (12a) of the tub (12). The door (20) may be installed on the main body (10) to open and close the opening (12a) of the tub (12). The door (20) may be installed on the cabinet (11) so as to be rotatable.

[0042] A dishwasher (1) may include a storage container provided inside a tub (12) for storing tableware. The storage container may include a plurality of baskets (51, 52, 53). Various tableware may be stored in the plurality of baskets (51, 52, 53). The plurality of baskets (51, 52, 53) may store not only relatively large-sized tableware but also relatively small-sized tableware. The types of tableware may be diverse. For example, various types of tableware such as plates, bowls, pots, frying pans, spoons, chopsticks, and knives may be stored in the tub (12).

[0043] The plurality of baskets (51, 52, 53) may include a middle basket (52) positioned in the middle in the height direction of the dishwasher (1) and a lower basket (51) positioned in the lower in the height direction of the dishwasher (1). The middle basket (52) may be provided to be supported by the middle guide rack (13a), and the lower basket (51) may be provided to be supported by the lower guide rack (13b). The middle guide rack (13a) and the lower guide rack (13b) may be installed on the inner surface of the tub (12) so as to be slidable toward the opening (12a) of the tub (12).

[0044] The plurality of baskets (51, 52, 53) may include an upper basket (53) positioned at the top in the height direction of the dishwasher (1). The upper basket (53) is formed in the form of a rack assembly and can store dishes having a relatively small size. For example, cooking tools or cutlery such as a ladle, a knife, a turner, and a cup can be stored in the upper basket (53). The types of dishes stored in the upper basket (53) are not limited to those exemplified.

[0045] The dishwasher (1) may include a washing room (C), which is a space formed by the interior of the tub (12). The washing room (C) is a space in which dishes placed in baskets (51, 52, 53) can be washed and dried using water. The washing room (C) may be defined as an inner space of the tub (12) formed by the upper surface (12f), side surface (12d), front surface, rear surface (12c), bottom (12b), and sump (70) of the tub (12).

[0046] The dishwasher (1) may further include a spray unit (41, 42, 43) configured to spray water. The spray unit (41, 42, 43) may include a first spray unit (41) arranged at the bottom of the lower basket (51) in the height direction of the dishwasher (1), a second spray unit (42) arranged at the bottom of the middle basket (52) in the height direction of the dishwasher (1), and a third spray unit (43) arranged at the top of the upper basket (53) in the height direction of the dishwasher (1). Each of the spray units (41, 42, 43) may have a rod shape and may include a nozzle through which water is discharged.

[0047] The first injection unit (41) may be provided to be rotatable around a first rotation axis (41a), the second injection unit (42) may be provided to be rotatable around a second rotation axis (42a), and the third injection unit (43) may be provided to be rotatable around a third rotation axis (43a).

[0048] The first spray unit (41) can be coupled to the tub bottom (12b) unlike the second spray unit (42) and the third spray unit (43). The first spray unit (41) can be coupled to the sump (70). The first spray unit (41) can spray water upward. The second spray unit (42) can spray water toward dishes stored in the middle basket (52) and the upper basket (53). The third spray unit (43) can spray water toward dishes stored in the upper basket (53), the middle basket (52), and the lower basket (51).

[0049] The dishwasher (1) may include a circulation pump (30) that pumps water stored in a sump (70) to a spray unit (41, 42, 43). Water pumped by the circulation pump (30) may be sprayed into the tub (12) through a first spray unit (41) via an alternating device (80) connected to the circulation pump (30). In addition, water pumped by the circulation pump (30) may move upward along a duct (60) and be sprayed into the tub (12) through a second spray unit (42) and a third spray unit (43).

[0050] Water stored in the sump (70) can flow to the alternating device (80) by the circulation pump (30). The alternating device (80) can be connected to the first injection unit (41) and can supply water to the first injection unit (41). In addition, the alternating device (80) can be connected to the duct (60) and can supply water to the duct (60). The alternating device (80) can selectively provide water to at least one of the first injection unit (41) and the duct (60).

[0051] Soft water used for dishwashing can be stored in the sump (70). When a predetermined amount of soft water is stored in the sump (70), the soft water can be sprayed toward dishes. The soft water sprayed into the tub (12) falls to the bottom (12b) of the tub (12) together with the dirt on the dishes and can be collected in the sump (70). The water collected in the sump (70) can be sprayed back into the tub (12) through the spray unit (41, 42, 43). The soft water used for dishwashing can be referred to as used water. The used water can be discharged to the outside during the draining stage of the washing cycle or the draining stage of the rinsing cycle.

[0052] A drain filter (90) may be installed in the sump (70). The drain filter (90) may be connected to the drain port (73) of the sump (70). The drain filter (90) may filter out waste contained in the used water. Therefore, the contamination level of the used water discharged through the drain port (73) of the sump (70) may be relatively low. The type of the drain filter (90) may vary. The drain filter (90) may be replaced by the user.

[0053] The dishwasher (1) may include a machine room (L) disposed below the tub (12). The machine room (L) may be formed by a lower frame (14) and a floor plate (15). Various devices may be disposed in the machine room (L). For example, a circulation pump (30), a sump (70), a drain pump (77), an alternating device (80), and a deionizing device (200) may be disposed in the machine room (L). In addition, a plurality of channels through which raw water, softened water, and used water flow may be disposed in the machine room (L). Each of the plurality of channels may be provided with a pipe or a hose.

[0054] The dishwasher (1) may include a case brake (100). The case brake (100) may be coupled to a side surface (12d) of the tub (12). For example, the case brake (100) may be coupled to an outer surface of the tub. The case brake (100) may be connected to a hole (12e) formed in the side surface (12d) of the tub (12). The case brake (100) may be coupled to the side surface (12d) of the tub (12) so that the hole (12e) of the tub (12) and the tub connection hole (113) of the case brake (100) correspond to each other.

[0055] The dishwasher (1) may include a deionizing device (200). The deionizing device (200) may be positioned at the lower side of the tub (12). The deionizing device (200) may be positioned below the tub bottom (12b). The deionizing device (200) may be accommodated within the cabinet (11).

[0056] The deionization device (200) can receive raw water from an external water source. The case break (100) is connected to the deionization device (200), and the raw water supplied from the water source can flow into the deionization device (200). The deionization device (200) can produce soft water by adsorbing ionic substances contained in the raw water.

[0057] The deionization device (200) may be provided in various types. For example, the deionization device (200) may include an EDI (Electro Deionization) device, a CEDI (Continuous Electro Deionization) device, and / or a CDI (Capacitive Deionization) device.

[0058] The soft water generated by the deionization device (200) can flow to the case break (100). In addition, the case break (100) is connected to a sump (70), and used water can flow from the sump (70) to the case break (100). Waste water generated by the regeneration of the deionization device (200) can also flow to the case break (100).

[0059] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of a dishwasher according to various embodiments. FIG. 4 illustrates a sump, a deionization device, and a case break of a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the dishwasher (1) may include a tub (12), a sump (70), a case break (100), and a deionization device (200). The case break (100), the sump (70), and the deionization device (200) may be connected by a plurality of flow paths. The plurality of flow paths may be provided by pipes or hoses. In addition, a plurality of valves for opening or closing the plurality of flow paths may be provided. The valves may include solenoid valves and / or thermo actuators. The types of valves are not limited to those exemplified, and various valves may be used.

[0061] The sump (70) may include a water collecting portion (71), a settling portion (72), a drain port (73), a drain pump coupling portion (75), and a softened water inlet port (76). The water collecting portion (71) may store water. The water collecting portion (71) may store softened water supplied from a deionization device (200). Soft water may flow into the water collecting portion (71) through the softened water inlet port (76). In addition, the water collecting portion (71) may collect used water. The settling portion (72) may be coupled to the tub bottom (12b). The tub (12) and the sump (70) may be coupled by the settling portion (72). For example, a coupling protrusion (72a) formed on the settling portion (72) may be coupled to the tub bottom (12b). Water collected in the water collecting portion (71) may be discharged through the drain port (73). A drain pump (77) can be coupled to the drain pump coupling (75). Depending on the operation of the drain pump (77), water collected in the water collection unit (71) can be discharged through the drain (73).

[0062] The case break (100) may be provided at a lower position higher than the water collecting portion (71) of the sump (70). Since the potential energy of the water in the case break (100) is greater than the potential energy of the water in the sump (70), the water collected in the sump (70) may not flow back into the case break (100).

[0063] The case break (100) may include a case (110), a raw water inlet (151), a raw water outlet (152), a waste water inlet (153), and a waste water outlet (154). The raw water inlet (151), the raw water outlet (152), the waste water inlet (153), and the waste water outlet (154) may be referred to as a first inlet, a first outlet, a second inlet, and a second outlet, respectively.

[0064] The raw water inlet (151) can be connected to a water source (S). Raw water can be introduced into the case break (100) from the water source (S) through the raw water inlet (151). The raw water can be discharged through the raw water outlet (152). The raw water discharged from the raw water outlet (152) can be supplied to the deionization device (200) through the first flow path (P1). The raw water can be introduced into the inlet (211) of the deionization device (200). The first flow path (P1) can connect the raw water outlet (152) of the case break (100) and the inlet (211) of the deionization device (200).

[0065] A first valve (V1) may be provided in the first flow path (P1). The first valve (V1) may be referred to as a "raw water valve." The first flow path (P1) may be opened or closed by the first valve (V1). When the first valve (V1) is opened, raw water may flow from the case break (100) to the deionization device (200). When the first valve (V1) is closed, the supply of raw water to the deionization device (200) may be cut off.

[0066] Soft water generated by the deionization device (200) can be supplied to the sump (70) through the second flow path (P2). The second flow path (P2) can connect the outlet (212) of the deionization device (200) and the soft water inlet (76) of the sump (70). The soft water can be discharged through the outlet (212) of the deionization device (200) and introduced into the soft water inlet (76) of the sump (70).

[0067] A second valve (V2) may be provided in the second flow path (P2). The second valve (V2) may be referred to as a "soft water valve." The second flow path (P2) may be opened or closed by the second valve (V2). When the second valve (V2) is opened, soft water may flow from the deionization device (200) to the sump (70). When the second valve (V2) is closed, the supply of soft water to the sump (70) may be cut off.

[0068] The used water collected in the sump (70) can be discharged to the drain port (73) of the sump (70). The drain port (73) of the sump (70) may also be referred to as a 'used water drain port'. The used water collected in the sump (70) can be discharged to the outside through the third flow path (P3). The third flow path (P3) can connect the drain port (73) of the sump (70) and the waste water inlet port (153) of the case brake (100). The used water flowing into the waste water inlet port (153) of the case brake (100) through the third flow path (P3) can be discharged to the outside through the waste water outlet port (154) of the case brake (100).

[0069] A third valve (V3) may be provided in the third flow path (P3). The third valve (V3) may be referred to as a "drain valve." The third flow path (P3) may be opened or closed by the third valve (V3). When the third valve (V3) is opened, the used water may flow from the sump (70) to the case break (100). When the third valve (V3) is closed, the inflow of the used water to the case break (100) may be blocked.

[0070] For regeneration of the deionization device (200), used water can be supplied to the deionization device (200). The used water discharged from the sump (70) can be supplied to the deionization device (200) through a fourth flow path (P4). The fourth flow path (P4) connects the first flow path (P1) and the third flow path (P3). One end of the fourth flow path (P4) can be connected to the first flow path (P1), and the other end of the fourth flow path (P4) can be connected to the third flow path (P3). The fourth flow path (P4) can be connected to the first flow path (P1) and the third flow path (P3), or can be formed integrally with the first flow path (P1) and the third flow path (P3).

[0071] When regenerating the deionization device (200) using used water, the used water can flow into the deionization device (200) sequentially through the third flow path (P3), the fourth flow path (P4), and the first flow path (P1) from the sump (70).

[0072] A fourth valve (V4) may be provided in the fourth flow path (P4). The fourth valve (V4) may be referred to as a "reuse valve." The fourth flow path (P4) may be opened or closed by the fourth valve (V4). When the fourth valve (V4) is opened, the used water may flow from the sump (70) to the deionizer (200). When the fourth valve (V4) is closed, the inflow of the used water to the deionizer (200) may be blocked.

[0073] When the deionization device (200) is regenerated using raw water or used water, wastewater discharged from the deionization device (200) can be introduced into the case break (100) through the fifth flow path (P5). The fifth flow path (P5) connects the second flow path (P2) and the third flow path (P3). One end of the fifth flow path (P5) can be connected to the second flow path (P2), and the other end of the fifth flow path (P5) can be connected to the third flow path (P3). The fifth flow path (P5) can be connected to the second flow path (P2) and the third flow path (P3), or can be formed integrally with the second flow path (P2) and the third flow path (P3).

[0074] When the deionization device (200) is regenerated, wastewater discharged through the outlet (212) of the deionization device (200) can sequentially flow through the second flow path (P2), the fifth flow path (P5), and the third flow path (P3) and then flow into the case break (100).

[0075] A fifth valve (V5) may be provided in the fifth flow path (P5). The fifth valve (V5) may be referred to as a "wastewater valve." The fifth flow path (P5) may be opened or closed by the fifth valve (V5). When the fifth valve (V5) is opened, wastewater may flow from the deionization device (200) to the case break (100) through the fifth flow path (P5). When the fifth valve (V5) is closed, the inflow of wastewater into the case break (100) may be blocked.

[0076] The first branch point (B1) connecting the third flow path (P3) and the fourth flow path (P4) may be located closer to the drain outlet (73) of the sump (70) than the second branch point (B2) connecting the third flow path (P3) and the fifth flow path (P5). The third valve (V3) may be located between the first branch point (B1) and the second branch point (B2). On the third flow path (P3), the first branch point (B1) may be located upstream, and the second branch point (B2) may be located downstream.

[0077] The operation of each of the plurality of valves illustrated in Fig. 4 is described below.

[0078] Figure 5 illustrates the interior of a case brake according to various embodiments.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 5, the case brake (100) may include a case (110), an internal flow path (120), an air brake (130), a flow sensor (140), a raw water inlet (151), a raw water outlet (152), a waste water inlet (153), and a waste water outlet (154).

[0080] The case break (100) may include an external connection hole (112) and a tub connection hole (113). Air may flow between the exterior of the dishwasher (1) and the interior of the case (110) through the external connection hole (112). The external connection hole (112a) may be formed in various locations. For example, the external connection hole (112a) may be formed at the top, bottom, and side of the case (110).

[0081] The tub connection hole (113) can correspond to the hole (12e) of the tub (12). The case brake (100) can be coupled to the side surface (12d) of the tub through a screw groove (or screw thread) provided on the inside (113a) of the tub connection hole and a screw thread (or screw groove) formed on the inside surface of the tub (12).

[0082] The case brake (100) may include an air brake chamber (160). The air brake chamber (160) may be formed within the case (110). The air brake chamber (160) is connected to the air brake (130) and may accommodate water flowing out from the air brake hole (130a).

[0083] An internal flow path (120) may be formed within the case (110). The internal flow path (120) may include an internal inlet (121) and an internal outlet (122). The internal flow path (120) may include a first internal flow path (123) and a second internal flow path (124). The first internal flow path (123) may guide raw water flowing into the case (110) through the raw water inlet (151) and the internal inlet (121) to the air break (130). The raw water passing through the air break (130) may flow to the deionization device (200) through the internal outlet (122) and the raw water discharge (152) via the second internal flow path (124).

[0084] A flow sensor (140) may be provided within the case (110) of the case break (100). The flow sensor (140) may measure the amount of raw water flowing into the case break (100) from the water source (S) per unit time (e.g., 1 second). The raw water flowing into the internal flow path (120) may sequentially pass through the flow sensor (140) and the air break (130) and be supplied to the deionization device (200) through the raw water discharge port (152).

[0085] The raw water passing through the flow sensor (140) can flow to the air brake (130). The air brake (130) can prevent and / or reduce the backflow of water from the sump (70) to the case brake (100). The water passing through the internal flow path (120) can have the highest potential energy at the top of the air brake (130).

[0086] The used water drained from the sump (70) or the waste water generated during the regeneration of the deionization device (200) can be introduced into the interior of the case break (100) through the waste water inlet (153). The waste water inlet (153) can be connected to the drain (73) of the sump (70) through the third flow path (P3). The used water or waste water introduced into the interior of the case break (100) can be discharged to the exterior of the dishwasher (1) through the waste water outlet (154).

[0087] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a dishwasher including various flow paths and various valves according to various embodiments.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 6, a first flow path (P1) can connect a case break (100) and a deionization device (200). The first flow path (P1) can guide raw water to the deionization device (200). A first valve (V1) can be provided in the first flow path (P1). The first valve (V1) can open or close the first flow path (P1) under the control of a control unit (500).

[0089] The deionization device (200) can produce soft water by adsorbing ionic substances contained in raw water. The soft water produced by the deionization device (200) can be supplied to the sump (70) through the second flow path (P2). A second valve (V2) can be provided in the second flow path (P2). The second valve (V2) can open or close the second flow path (P2) under the control of the control unit (500).

[0090] According to the operation of the circulation pump (30), soft water is stored in the sump (70), and the stored soft water can flow to the alternating device (80). The water stored in the sump (70) by the alternating device (80) can be sprayed through at least one of the first spray unit (41), the second spray unit (42), and the third spray unit (43).

[0091] Soft water sprayed into the tub (12) falls to the bottom (12b) of the tub (12) together with the dirt on the dishes and can be collected in the sump (70). The water collected in the sump (70) can be sprayed back into the tub (12) through the spray unit (41, 42, 43) according to the operation of the circulation pump (30). Soft water used for dishwashing can be referred to as used water.

[0092] The used water collected in the sump (70) can be transferred to the case break (100) through the third flow path (P3). The used water flowing into the case break (100) can be discharged to the outside of the dishwasher (1). A third valve (V3) can be provided in the third flow path (P3). The third valve (V3) can open or close the third flow path (P3) under the control of the control unit (500).

[0093] The fourth flow path (P4) connects the first flow path (P1) and the third flow path (P3). One end of the fourth flow path (P4) may be connected to the first flow path (P1), and the other end of the fourth flow path (P4) may be connected to the third flow path (P3). The used water discharged from the sump (70) may be supplied to the deionization device (200) through the fourth flow path (P4). A fourth valve (V4) may be provided in the fourth flow path (P4). The fourth valve (V4) may open or close the fourth flow path (P4) under the control of the control unit (500).

[0094] The fifth flow path (P5) connects the second flow path (P2) and the third flow path (P3). One end of the fifth flow path (P5) may be connected to the second flow path (P2), and the other end of the fifth flow path (P5) may be connected to the third flow path (P3). A fifth valve (V5) may be provided in the fifth flow path (P5). The fifth valve (V5) may open or close the fifth flow path (P5) under the control of the control unit (500).

[0095] On the first flow path (P1), the first valve (V1) may be positioned closer to the case break (110) than one end of the fourth flow path (P4) connected to the first flow path (P1). On the second flow path (P2), the second valve (V2) may be positioned closer to the sump (70) than one end of the fifth flow path (P5) connected to the second flow path (P2). The third valve (V3) may be positioned between the other end of the fourth flow path (P4) connected to the third flow path (P3) and the other end of the fifth flow path (P5) connected to the third flow path (P3).

[0096] A drain filter (90) may be installed in the sump (70). The drain filter (90) may be connected to the drain port (73) of the sump (70). The drain filter (90) may filter out waste contained in the used water. The contamination level of the used water discharged from the sump (70) may be reduced by the drain filter (90).

[0097] A water filter (91) may be mounted at the inlet (211) of the deionization device (200). The water filter (91) may filter out impurities contained in raw water flowing into the deionization device (200) or may filter out impurities contained in used water flowing into the deionization device (200) through the fourth flow path (P4). The contamination level of the raw water flowing into the deionization device (200) may be reduced by the water filter (91). In addition, the contamination level of the used water flowing into the deionization device (200) may be reduced through the primary filtering of the used water by the drainage filter (90) and the secondary filtering of the used water by the water filter (91).

[0098] FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a dishwasher including various flow paths and various valves according to various embodiments.

[0099] Referring to Fig. 7, the dishwasher (1) may further include a water tank (300). The water tank (300) may be coupled to the outer surface of the tub (12). For example, the side of the tub (12) where the water tank (300) is placed may face the side (12d) of the tub (12) where the case brake (100) is positioned. That is, the case brake (100) and the water tank (300) may be provided on one side and the other side of the tub (12) so as to face each other.

[0100] The dishwasher (1) may include a sixth passage (P6) connecting the third passage (P3) and the water tank (300). A sixth valve (V6) may be provided in the sixth passage (P6). The sixth passage (P6) may be opened or closed by the sixth valve (V6). The sixth valve (V6) may open or close the sixth passage (P6) under the control of the control unit (500). The sixth valve (V6) may be referred to as a 'water tank valve'.

[0101] The water tank (300) can store at least a portion of the used water collected in the sump (70) during the rinsing cycle. When the sixth valve (V6) is opened during the draining stage of the rinsing cycle, the used water discharged from the sump (70) can be stored in the water tank (300). The sixth valve (V6) can be opened for a predetermined time during the draining stage of the rinsing cycle and then closed. The used water stored in the water tank (300) can be used when additional regeneration of the deionization device (200) is required after the rinsing cycle is completed.

[0102] Figure 8 illustrates the principle of generating soft water by a deionization device according to various embodiments. Figure 9 illustrates the principle of regenerating a deionization device according to various embodiments.

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the deionization device (200) may include a plurality of electrodes (220, 230). For example, the deionization device (200) may include a first electrode (220) and a second electrode (230). The first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230) may be arranged in parallel with a predetermined interval. When voltage is applied to the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230), an electric field may be formed between the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230). The direction of the electric field may vary depending on the polarity of the voltage applied to the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230).

[0104] Referring to FIG. 8, an adsorption voltage may be applied to the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230). For example, due to the application of the adsorption voltage, the first electrode (220) may become an anode and the second electrode (230) may become a cathode. In this case, when water moves between the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230) that are spaced apart from each other, ionic substances (e.g., dissolved solids) contained in the water may move to the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230) by electrical attraction. An ionic substance having a negative charge may be adsorbed to the first electrode (220), and an ionic substance having a positive charge may be adsorbed to the second electrode (230). Therefore, water passing through the deionization device (200) may be soft water that does not contain an ionic substance or contains a very small amount of an ionic substance.

[0105] However, as the deionization process continues to generate ionic substances, the electric field formed between the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230) may weaken. When the electric field weakens, the ionic substances are not easily adsorbed to the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230), and thus the adsorption capacity of the deionization device (200) deteriorates. To restore the adsorption performance of the deionization device (200), regeneration of the deionization device (200) is required.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 9, in order to restore the adsorption capacity of the deionization device (200), a regeneration voltage having a polarity opposite to the adsorption voltage may be applied to the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230). Due to the application of the regeneration voltage, the first electrode (220) may become a cathode, and the second electrode (230) may become an anode. As the regeneration voltage having a polarity opposite to the adsorption voltage is applied to the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230), ionic substances attached to the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230) may be separated from the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230).

[0107] In addition, even when no voltage is applied to the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230), the ionic substances can be separated from the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230). Since the attractive force affecting the ionic substances disappears when the electric field disappears, the ionic substances can be separated from the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230). The ionic substances separated from the first electrode (220) and the second electrode (230) can be discharged to the outside together with water. Through this, the adsorption capacity of the deionization device (200) can be restored.

[0108] Fig. 10 is a control block diagram of a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 10, the dishwasher (1) may include various components. The dishwasher (1) may include, for example, a control unit (500) including at least one processor including various processing circuits. The control unit (500) may be electrically connected to various components of the dishwasher (1) and may control the various components.

[0110] For example, the control unit (500) can control a circulation pump (30), a drain pump (77), a flow sensor (140), and a deionization device (200). The control unit (500) can control a power supply unit (410), a user interface (420) including various circuits, and a turbidity sensor (430). The control unit (500) can control a raw water valve (V1), a softening valve (V2), a drain valve (V3), a reuse valve (V4), and a waste water valve (V5). When the dishwasher (1) includes a water tank valve (V6), the control unit (500) can control the water tank valve (V6).

[0111] The circulation pump (30) can send water stored in the sump (70) to the injection units (41, 42, 43). The water pumped by the circulation pump (30) can be injected into the tub (12) through at least one of the first injection unit (41), the second injection unit (42), and the third injection unit (43). The control unit (500) can operate or stop the circulation pump (30). The control unit (500) can control the pressure of the water injected through the injection units (41, 42, 43) by controlling the circulation pump (30).

[0112] The drain pump (77) can send the water collected in the collection portion (71) of the sump (70) to the drain outlet (73) of the sump (70). The control unit (500) can operate or stop the drain pump (77). The control unit (500) can operate the drain pump (77) to discharge the used water in the drainage step of the washing process and the drainage step of the rinsing process.

[0113] The flow sensor (140) can measure the amount of raw water per unit time (e.g., 1 second) flowing into the case break (100) from the water source (S). The amount of raw water flowing into the case break (100) can correspond to the amount of raw water supplied to the deionization device (200). The flow sensor (140) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of measured raw water per unit time (e.g., 1 second) to the control unit (500). The control unit (500) can determine the cumulative amount of raw water supplied to the deionization device (200) based on the electrical signal transmitted from the flow sensor (140). The cumulative amount of raw water can correspond to the cumulative amount of soft water supplied from the deionization device (200) to the sump (70).

[0114] The deionization device (200) can generate soft water during the washing cycle and rinsing cycle of the dishwasher (1). The deionization device (200) can generate soft water by adsorbing ionic substances contained in raw water. The control unit (500) can control the deionization device (200) to generate soft water. The control unit (500) can apply an adsorption voltage to the deionization device (200) to generate soft water. In addition, the deionization device (200) can generate waste water during regeneration of the deionization device (200). The control unit (500) can apply a regeneration voltage to the deionization device (200) to regenerate the deionization device (200). The regeneration voltage may have an opposite polarity to the adsorption voltage.

[0115] The power supply unit (410) is connected to an external power source and can obtain power required for the operation of the dishwasher (1). The power supply unit (410) can provide power to electronic components included in the dishwasher (1). The power supply unit (410) can include a power circuit and be electrically connected to a control unit (500). The control unit (500) can control the power supply unit (410) and distribute power required for components of the dishwasher (1).

[0116] The user interface (420) may be provided on the door (20). The location of the user interface (420) is not limited to the exemplified location. The user interface (420) may be provided at various locations of the dishwasher (1).

[0117] The user interface (420) may include various interface circuits and may include a display and an input unit (e.g., including an input circuit). The display may display information regarding the status and / or operation of the dishwasher (1). The display may display information input by the user or information provided to the user on various screens. The display may display information related to the operation of the dishwasher (1) in the form of at least one image or text. In addition, the display may display a graphical user interface (GUI) that enables control of the dishwasher (1). For example, the display may display a user interface element (UI element), such as an icon.

[0118] The display may include various types of display panels. For example, the display may include a liquid crystal display panel (LCD panel), a light emitting diode panel (LED panel), an organic light emitting diode panel (OLED panel), or a micro LED panel. Additionally, the display may be implemented as a touch display.

[0119] The input unit may include various circuits and output electrical signals (voltage or current) corresponding to user input to the processor (520). The input unit may include various buttons and may also include a dial. If the display is provided as a touch display, a separate input unit may not be provided. For example, the user interface (420) may acquire various user inputs, such as user input for turning the dishwasher (1) on or off and user input for selecting a washing course.

[0120] A dishwasher (1) may provide various washing courses for washing dishes. For example, various washing courses may be provided, such as an automatic course, a standard course, a strong course, a rapid course, and / or a rinse-dry course. The number and / or types of operations included in each washing course may vary. Additionally, each washing course may include various changeable washing options (e.g., washing time, temperature, etc.). A user may select a washing course using a user interface (420) and change various washing options that constitute the washing course. The dishwasher (1) may operate according to the washing course and washing options set by the user input.

[0121] A washing course may include at least one cycle. When at least one cycle is performed, water may be sprayed onto dishes placed inside the dishwasher (1). For example, a standard course may include a pre-wash cycle, a main wash cycle, a rinse cycle, a drying cycle, and a cooling cycle. The pre-wash cycle, the main wash cycle, the rinse cycle, the drying cycle, and the cooling cycle may be performed sequentially. A rinse-drying course may include a rinse cycle, a drying cycle, and a cooling cycle. The types of cycles included in a washing course are not limited to those exemplified.

[0122] The turbidity sensor (430) can detect the turbidity of water collected in the sump (70). Turbidity is a quantitative indicator of the degree of cloudiness of water and represents the resistance to the passage of light. The turbidity sensor (430) can be placed in the sump (70). Various types of sensors can be used as the turbidity sensor (430). For example, the turbidity sensor (430) can emit pulsed light and detect light scattered from particles contained in the water. The turbidity sensor (430) can determine the turbidity of the water based on the intensity and / or amount of the scattered light detected.

[0123] The turbidity of the water may be determined by the control unit (500). The control unit (500) may determine the turbidity of the water based on an electrical signal transmitted from the turbidity sensor (430). The control unit (500) may determine the regeneration of the deionization device (200) using the used water based on the turbidity of the used water being less than or equal to a predetermined threshold value.

[0124] The control unit (500) may be provided inside the main body (10). The control unit (500) may include a memory (510) and a processor (520).

[0125] The memory (510) can store / remember various information necessary for the operation of the dishwasher (1). The memory (510) can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs necessary for the operation of the dishwasher (1). The memory (510) may include volatile memory such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (D-RAM) for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory (510) may include nonvolatile memory such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), or Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) for long-term storage of data.

[0126] The processor (520) may generate a control signal for controlling the operation of the dishwasher (1) based on instructions, applications, data, and / or programs stored in the memory (510). The processor (520) may be hardware and include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor (520) may process data according to programs and / or instructions provided from the memory (510) and generate a control signal according to the processing result. The memory (510) and the processor (520) may be implemented as one control circuit or as multiple circuits. The processor (520) may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, the term “processor” as used herein, including in the claims, may include various processing circuits including at least one processor, wherein at least one or more of the at least one processor may be individually and / or collectively configured to perform various functions described herein in a distributed manner. When the terms "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" are used herein to describe a processor configured to perform a number of functions, these terms encompass, for example and without limitation, situations where one processor performs some of the recited functions and other processor(s) perform other of the recited functions, and situations where a single processor can perform all of the recited functions. Furthermore, the at least one processor may comprise a combination of processors that perform various recited / disclosed functions, for example, in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to achieve or perform various functions.

[0127] The control unit (500) can open or close the raw water valve (V1) provided on the first flow path (P1) for supplying raw water to the deionization device (200). The control unit (500) can open or close the softening valve (V2) provided on the second flow path (P2) for supplying softened water to the sump (70). The control unit (500) can open or close the drain valve (V3) provided on the third flow path (P3) for draining the used water collected in the sump (70) to the outside.

[0128] The control unit (500) can open or close the reuse valve (V4) provided on the fourth passage (P4) for supplying the used water to the deionization device (200). The control unit (500) can open or close the wastewater valve (V5) provided on the fifth passage (P5) for discharging the wastewater generated during the regeneration of the deionization device (200) to the outside. The control unit (500) can open or close the water tank valve (V6) provided on the sixth passage (P6) connected to the water tank (300). In addition, the control unit (500) can adjust the opening degree of each of the raw water valve (V1), the softening valve (V2), the drain valve (V3), the reuse valve (V4), the wastewater valve (V5), and the water tank valve (V6).

[0129] The controllable components included in the dishwasher (1) are not limited to those illustrated. In addition to those illustrated in Fig. 10, the dishwasher (1) may include various controllable components, or some of the illustrated components may be omitted.

[0130] For example, the dishwasher (1) may include a heater for heating water supplied into the tub (12) and a heater for heating air supplied into the tub (12). The dishwasher (1) may include a fan for supplying air into the tub (12). When the heater and fan operate, hot air may be supplied into the tub (12).

[0131] In addition, the dishwasher (1) may further include a communication interface. The communication interface may include various communication circuits. For example, the communication interface may include a wired communication module and / or a wireless communication module for communicating with an external device (e.g., a mobile device, a computer, etc.). The wired communication module may communicate with the external device via a wide area network such as the Internet, and the wireless communication module may communicate with the external device via an access point connected to the wide area network. A user may remotely control the dishwasher (1) using an external device.

[0132] Although the control of the dishwasher (1) has been described as being performed by the control unit (500), it is self-evident that it can also be described as being performed by the processor (520).

[0133] FIG. 11 is a table (1100) describing the operation of various valves included in a dishwasher according to one embodiment. Referring to the table (1100) of FIG. 11, a plurality of valves can be controlled in response to various operations of the dishwasher (1). In the table (1100), ON indicates the opening of each valve, and OFF indicates the closing of each valve.

[0134] The control unit (500) of the dishwasher (1) can open the first valve (V1) and the second valve (V2) and close the third valve (V3), the fourth valve (V4) and the fifth valve (V5) to supply soft water to the tub (12). The supply of soft water can be performed at the start of the washing cycle and at the start of the rinsing cycle. The control unit (500) can close the second valve (V2) and open the fifth valve (V5) based on a predetermined amount of soft water being stored in the tub (12). The control unit (500) can identify the amount of soft water stored in the tub (12) based on a signal transmitted from the flow sensor (140).

[0135] The control unit (500) can open the third valve (V3) and close the first valve (V1), the second valve (V2), the fourth valve (V4), and the fifth valve (V5) to discharge the used water collected in the sump (70) to the outside of the dishwasher (1). In the draining stage of the washing cycle and the draining stage of the rinsing cycle, the used water can be discharged to the outside of the dishwasher (1).

[0136] The control unit (500) can control a plurality of valves to perform regeneration of the deionization device (200) using raw water or used water in at least one of the washing process and the rinsing process.

[0137] The control unit (500) can control a plurality of valves so that the deionization device (200) is regenerated using raw water while the softened water stored in the sump (70) is sprayed into the tub (12) during at least one of the washing cycle and the rinsing cycle. The control unit (500) can close the second valve (V2), the third valve (V3), and the fourth valve (V4), and open the first valve (V1) and the fifth valve (V5), so that the deionization device (200) is regenerated using the raw water.

[0138] The control unit (500) can close the first valve (V1), the second valve (V2), and the third valve (V3), and open the fourth valve (V4) and the fifth valve (V5), so that the deionization device (200) is regenerated using used water during at least one of the washing cycle and the rinsing cycle. The regeneration of the deionization device (200) using used water can be performed during at least one of the draining step of the washing cycle and the draining step of the rinsing cycle.

[0139] When multiple rinsing operations are performed, regeneration of the deionization device (200) using used water may be performed for each of the multiple rinsing operations or may be performed in the last rinsing operation.

[0140] It is also possible to perform regeneration of the deionization device (200) only when necessary. The control unit (500) can identify whether regeneration of the deionization device (200) is necessary. For example, the control unit (500) can determine that regeneration of the deionization device (200) is necessary when the cumulative amount of raw water supplied to the deionization device (200) reaches a predetermined threshold value. When the cumulative number of times the washing process and the rinsing process are performed reaches a predetermined threshold number, the control unit (500) can determine that regeneration of the deionization device (200) is necessary. When the cumulative usage time of the dishwasher (1) reaches a predetermined threshold time, the control unit (500) can determine that regeneration of the deionization device (200) is necessary.

[0141] Figure 12 illustrates a water softening path for supplying water to the sump during the washing and rinsing cycles.

[0142] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the control unit (500) of the dishwasher (1) can open the first valve (V1) and the second valve (V2) and close the third valve (V3), the fourth valve (V4), and the fifth valve (V5) to supply soft water to the tub (12) at the start of the washing cycle and at the start of the rinsing cycle.

[0143] By opening the first valve (V1), raw water can flow into the deionization device (200) through the first passage (P1). In addition, by opening the second valve (V2), soft water generated by the deionization device (200) can flow into the sump (70) through the second passage (P2). By closing the fourth valve (V4), raw water cannot flow into the fourth passage (P4). By closing the fifth valve (V5), soft water cannot flow into the fifth passage (P5).

[0144] The control unit (500) can close the second valve (V2) and open the fifth valve (V5) based on the fact that a predetermined amount of soft water is stored in the tub (12). The soft water stored in the sump (70) can be supplied to at least one of the first injection unit (41), the second injection unit (42), and the third injection unit (43) through the alternating device (80). That is, when a predetermined amount of soft water is stored in the sump (70) and the tub (12), the generation of soft water is stopped, and the soft water can be injected into the tub (12) through the injection units (41, 42, 43).

[0145] The sprayed soft water can be used to wash dishes and collected together with the waste in the sump (70). The soft water used for washing dishes can be referred to as used water, and the used water can be sprayed again through the spray unit (41, 42, 43). That is, the water can circulate within the tub (12). The circulation of the tub (12) can be performed for a predetermined spray time (spray stage).

[0146] When the spraying step of spraying water (including soft water and used water) into the tub (12) for a predetermined spraying time in the washing and rinsing steps is completed, the draining step can be entered.

[0147] Figure 13 illustrates a drainage path for discharging used water to the outside during the washing and rinsing cycles.

[0148] Referring to Fig. 13, when the spraying step is completed in the washing and rinsing steps, the draining step can be entered. If the regeneration of the deionizing device (200) is not performed in the draining step of the washing and rinsing steps, the used water collected in the sump (70) can be discharged to the outside of the dishwasher (1) via the case break (100). That is, if the regeneration of the deionizing device (200) using the used water is omitted, the used water can be discharged to the outside of the dishwasher (1).

[0149] As described in Fig. 11, the control unit (500) can open the third valve (V3) and close the first valve (V1), the second valve (V2), the fourth valve (V4), and the fifth valve (V5) to discharge the used water collected in the sump (70) to the outside of the dishwasher (1). Since only the third valve (V3) is opened, the used water collected in the sump (70) flows to the case break (100) through the third flow path (P3) and does not flow into other flow paths.

[0150] Figure 14 illustrates the flow path used when regenerating a deionization device using raw water.

[0151] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 14, the dishwasher (1) can regenerate the deionizing device (200) using raw water while the softened water stored in the sump (70) is sprayed into the tub (12) during at least one of the washing cycle and the rinsing cycle. To regenerate the deionizing device (200) using raw water, the control unit (500) can close the second valve (V2), the third valve (V3), and the fourth valve (V4), and open the first valve (V1) and the fifth valve (V5).

[0152] In this case, the raw water discharged from the case break (100) can be introduced into the deionization device (200) through the first flow path (P1). The deionization device (200) can be regenerated by the raw water and discharge waste water. The waste water discharged from the deionization device (200) can be introduced into the case break (100) through a portion of the second flow path (P2), the fifth flow path (P5), and the third flow path (P3).

[0153] Since the second valve (V2) is closed, wastewater cannot be supplied to the sump (70) through the second flow path (P2). Since the fourth valve (V4) is closed, raw water cannot flow into the sump (70) through the fourth flow path (P4). Since the third valve (V3) is closed, wastewater cannot flow into the sump (70) through the third flow path (P3). That is, backflow of wastewater can be blocked. In addition, used water collected in the sump (70) is not discharged.

[0154] In this way, regeneration of the deionizing device (200) can be performed simultaneously using raw water while washing or rinsing dishes is being performed. Since there is no need to set aside a separate time for regeneration of the deionizing device (200), continuous use of the dishwasher (1) is possible.

[0155] Figure 15 illustrates the flow path used when regenerating a deionization device using used water.

[0156] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 15, the dishwasher (1) can regenerate the deionizing device (200) using used water in at least one of the draining step of the washing cycle and the draining step of the rinsing cycle. To regenerate the deionizing device (200) using used water, the control unit (500) can close the first valve (V1), the second valve (V2), and the third valve (V3), and open the fourth valve (V4) and the fifth valve (V5).

[0157] Since the third valve (V3) is closed and the fourth valve (V4) is open, the used water discharged from the sump (70) can flow into the deionization device (200) through the fourth flow path (P4). Since the first valve (V1) is closed, the raw water cannot be supplied to the deionization device (200), and the used water cannot flow into the case break (100) through the first flow path (P1).

[0158] The deionization device (200) can be regenerated by used water and discharge waste water. The waste water can flow to the case break (100) through the second flow path (P2), the fifth flow path (P5), and the third flow path (P3). Since the second valve (V2) is closed, the waste water discharged from the deionization device (200) cannot flow to the sump (70) through the second flow path (P2).

[0159] By utilizing used water for regeneration of the deionization device (200), the use of raw water can be reduced. Since the deionization device (200) can be regenerated during the draining stage of the washing cycle and the draining stage of the rinsing cycle, there is no need to set aside a separate time for regeneration of the deionization device (200), and continuous use of the dishwasher (1) is possible.

[0160] In addition, since the regeneration efficiency of the deionization device (200) is better when using softened water rather than raw water, the regeneration efficiency of the deionization device (200) can be increased by using water corresponding to softened water.

[0161] In addition, as described in FIGS. 14 and 15, the disclosed dishwasher (1) can regenerate the deionization device (200) using raw water supplied from a water source or water used for dishwashing without a separate water tank. Therefore, the dishwasher (1) can be made more compact.

[0162] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating the entire process performed by a dishwasher to wash dishes according to various embodiments.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 16, the control unit (500) of the dishwasher (1) can identify the selection of a washing course and washing options (1601). The user can select the washing course and washing options using the user interface (420) or an external device. Typically, the washing course may include a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, a drying cycle, and a cooling cycle. The washing options may include detailed settings for each of the washing cycle, the rinsing cycle, the drying cycle, and the cooling cycle. The control unit (500) can control the operation of the dishwasher (1) according to the selected washing course and washing options. The washing cycle, the rinsing cycle, the drying cycle, and the cooling cycle may be performed sequentially.

[0164] A dishwasher (1) can perform a washing process (1602). The washing process can include a water supply step, a spray step, and a drain step. In the water supply step of the washing process, a predetermined amount of soft water can be stored in the sump (70) and the tub (12). In the spray step of the washing process, the soft water stored in the sump (70) and the tub (12) can be sprayed into the tub (12) through the spray unit (41, 42, 43) for a predetermined spray time. In the drain step of the washing process, the soft water used for washing the dishes can be discharged to the outside of the dishwasher (1).

[0165] The washing cycle may include a pre-wash cycle and a main washing cycle. Each of the pre-wash cycle and the main washing cycle may include a water supply phase, a spray phase, and a drain phase.

[0166] The dishwasher (1) can perform a rinsing cycle (1603). The rinsing cycle can also include a water supply step, a spray step, and a drain step. In the water supply step of the rinsing cycle, a predetermined amount of soft water can be stored in the sump (70) and the tub (12). In the spray step of the rinsing cycle, the soft water stored in the sump (70) and the tub (12) can be sprayed into the tub (12) through the spray unit (41, 42, 43) for a predetermined spraying time. In the drain step of the rinsing cycle, the soft water used for dishwashing can be discharged to the outside of the dishwasher (1). The rinsing cycle can also be performed multiple times.

[0167] The dishwasher (1) can perform a drying cycle (1604). During the drying cycle, hot air can be supplied into the tub (12). The hot air can circulate within the tub (12) and evaporate moisture remaining on the dishes.

[0168] The dishwasher (1) can perform a cooling cycle (1605). During the cooling cycle, air having a relatively low temperature can be supplied into the tub (12). During the cooling cycle, the temperature of the dishes can be reduced.

[0169] FIG. 17 illustrates one embodiment of a control method of a dishwasher performed to regenerate a deionizing device in the washing and rinsing cycles described in FIG. 16.

[0170] Referring to Fig. 17, the washing and rinsing cycles of the dishwasher (1) may each include a water supply phase, a spray phase, and a drain phase. When the washing or rinsing cycle of the dishwasher (1) begins, the water supply phase may be entered (1701). During the water supply phase, soft water may be supplied to the sump (70) and the tub (12).

[0171] To supply soft water to the sump (70) and the tub (12), the control unit (500) can control the deionization device (200) and a plurality of valves. For example, the control unit (500) can apply an adsorption voltage, open the first valve (V1) and the second valve (V2), and close the third valve (V3), the fourth valve (V4), and the fifth valve (V5). When a predetermined amount of soft water is stored in the tub (12), the water supply phase can be terminated.

[0172] Once the water supply phase is completed, the dishwasher (1) can enter the spray phase (1702). In the spray phase, the soft water stored in the sump (70) and the tub (12) can be sprayed into the tub (12) through the spray unit (41, 42, 43) for a predetermined spray time.

[0173] While the softened water stored in the sump (70) is sprayed into the tub (12), the dishwasher (1) can regenerate the deionization device (200) using the raw water (1703). To regenerate the deionization device (200) using the raw water in the spraying step, the control unit (500) can apply a regeneration voltage to the deionization device (200), close the second valve (V2), the third valve (V3), and the fourth valve (V4), and open the first valve (V1) and the fifth valve (V5).

[0174] When the spraying step is completed, the dishwasher (1) can enter the draining step (1704). In the draining step, the softened water used for dishwashing can be discharged to the outside of the dishwasher (1). In the draining step, the dishwasher (1) can regenerate the deionizing device (200) using the used water (1705). To regenerate the deionizing device (200) using the used water in the draining step, the control unit (500) can apply a regeneration voltage to the deionizing device (200), close the first valve (V1), the second valve (V2), and the third valve (V3), and open the fourth valve (V4) and the fifth valve (V5).

[0175] When the draining phase is completed, the dishwasher (1) can end the washing cycle or the rinsing cycle.

[0176] If regeneration of the deionization device (200) is not required, at least one of the regeneration process of the deionization device (200) using raw water and the regeneration process of the deionization device (200) using used water may be omitted.

[0177] Whether or not the deionization device (200) needs to be regenerated can be determined by various methods. For example, the control unit (500) can determine that the deionization device (200) needs to be regenerated when the accumulated amount of raw water supplied to the deionization device (200) reaches a predetermined threshold value. When the accumulated number of times the washing process and the rinsing process are performed reaches a predetermined threshold number, the control unit (500) can determine that the deionization device (200) needs to be regenerated. When the accumulated usage time of the dishwasher (1) reaches a predetermined threshold time, the control unit (500) can determine that the deionization device (200) needs to be regenerated.

[0178] FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment added to the control method of a dishwasher described in FIG. 17.

[0179] Referring to Fig. 18, when the washing or rinsing cycle of the dishwasher (1) begins, it can enter the water supply phase (1801). During the water supply phase, soft water can be supplied to the sump (70) and the tub (12). When the water supply phase ends, the dishwasher (1) can enter the spray phase (1802). During the spray phase, soft water stored in the sump (70) and the tub (12) can be sprayed into the tub (12) through the spray unit (41, 42, 43) for a predetermined spray time.

[0180] While the softened water stored in the sump (70) is sprayed into the tub (12), the dishwasher (1) can regenerate the deionization device (200) using the raw water (1803). To regenerate the deionization device (200) using the raw water in the spraying step, the control unit (500) can apply a regeneration voltage to the deionization device (200), close the second valve (V2), the third valve (V3), and the fourth valve (V4), and open the first valve (V1) and the fifth valve (V5).

[0181] Once the spraying phase is completed, the dishwasher (1) can enter the draining phase (1804). In the draining phase, the control unit (500) of the dishwasher (1) can compare the turbidity of the water (i.e., used water) with a predetermined threshold value based on an electrical signal transmitted from the turbidity sensor (430) (1805).

[0182] The control unit (500) can control a plurality of valves to discharge the used water to the outside of the dishwasher (1) based on whether the turbidity of the used water is greater than a threshold value (1806). That is, the control unit (500) can open the third valve (V3) and close the first valve (V1), the second valve (V2), the fourth valve (V4), and the fifth valve (V5) to discharge the used water to the outside. If the turbidity of the used water is too high, it can contaminate the deionization device (200), so it is preferable to discharge the used water to the outside.

[0183] Conversely, the control unit (500) can regenerate the deionization device (200) using the used water if the turbidity of the used water is less than or equal to a threshold value (1807). To regenerate the deionization device (200) using the used water, the control unit (500) can close the first valve (V1), the second valve (V2), and the third valve (V3), and open the fourth valve (V4) and the fifth valve (V5).

[0184] When the draining phase is completed, the dishwasher (1) can end the washing cycle or the rinsing cycle.

[0185] As described above, if regeneration of the deionization device (200) is not required, at least one of the regeneration process of the deionization device (200) using raw water and the regeneration process of the deionization device (200) using used water may be omitted.

[0186] FIG. 19 illustrates one embodiment of a control method of a dishwasher performed to regenerate a deionizing device in the rinsing cycle described in FIG. 16.

[0187] Referring to Fig. 19, when the washing or rinsing cycle of the dishwasher (1) begins, the water supply phase can be entered (1901). During the water supply phase, soft water can be supplied to the sump (70) and the tub (12). When the water supply phase is completed, the dishwasher (1) can enter the spray phase (1902). During the spray phase, soft water stored in the sump (70) and the tub (12) can be sprayed into the tub (12) through the spray unit (41, 42, 43) for a predetermined spray time.

[0188] While the softened water stored in the sump (70) is sprayed into the tub (12), the dishwasher (1) can regenerate the deionization device (200) using the raw water (1903). To regenerate the deionization device (200) using the raw water in the spraying step, the control unit (500) can apply a regeneration voltage to the deionization device (200), close the second valve (V2), the third valve (V3), and the fourth valve (V4), and open the first valve (V1) and the fifth valve (V5).

[0189] Once the spraying phase is completed, the dishwasher (1) can enter the draining phase (1904). The control unit (500) can identify whether the current rinsing cycle is the last of multiple rinsing cycles (1905).

[0190] If the current rinsing cycle is not the final rinsing cycle, the control unit (500) can control multiple valves (1906) to discharge the used water to the outside of the dishwasher (1). That is, the control unit (500) can open the third valve (V3) and close the first valve (V1), the second valve (V2), the fourth valve (V4), and the fifth valve (V5) to discharge the used water to the outside.

[0191] If the current rinsing cycle is the last rinsing cycle, the control unit (500) can regenerate the deionizing device (200) using the used water (1907). To regenerate the deionizing device (200) using the used water, the control unit (500) can close the first valve (V1), the second valve (V2), and the third valve (V3), and open the fourth valve (V4) and the fifth valve (V5). If the rinsing cycle is performed multiple times, the contamination level of the used water may be the lowest in the last rinsing cycle. Therefore, if the deionizing device (200) is regenerated using the used water in the last rinsing cycle, contamination of the deionizing device (200) can be minimized.

[0192] As a further embodiment, when the dishwasher (1) includes a water tank (300), the control unit (500) can open and then close the sixth valve (V6) for a predetermined time so that used water is stored in the water tank (300) during the draining stage of each rinsing stage while a plurality of rinsing stages are performed. The control unit (500) can further regenerate the deionizing device (200) after the completion of the last rinsing stage among the plurality of rinsing stages. The control unit (600) can open the sixth valve (V6) so that the deionizing device (200) is further regenerated using the used water stored in the water tank (300) after the completion of the last rinsing stage. In this case, as in the general draining stage, the control unit (500) can open the third valve (V3) and close the first valve (V1), the second valve (V2), the fourth valve (V4), and the fifth valve (V5).

[0193] According to one embodiment, a dishwasher comprises: a cabinet; a tub disposed within the cabinet; a sump provided at a lower portion of the tub; a deionizing device that generates soft water using raw water supplied from a water source and supplies the soft water to the sump; a plurality of passages including at least one of a pipe and a hose through which the raw water, the soft water, and used water collected in the sump flow; a plurality of valves provided in each of the plurality of passages; and a control unit including at least one processor and controlling the plurality of valves to perform regeneration of the deionizing device using the raw water or the used water in at least one of a washing cycle and a rinsing cycle.

[0194] The plurality of valves may include a first valve for opening or closing a first passage for supplying the raw water to the deionizer; a second valve for opening or closing a second passage for supplying the soft water generated by the deionizer to the sump; a third valve for opening or closing a third passage for draining the used water collected in the sump to the outside; a fourth valve for opening or closing a fourth passage for supplying the used water to the deionizer; and a fifth valve for opening or closing a fifth passage connecting the second passage and the third passage.

[0195] The control unit can close the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve, and open the first valve and the fifth valve, so that the deionization device is regenerated using the raw water during at least one of the washing process and the rinsing process.

[0196] The control unit can control the plurality of valves so that the deionization device is regenerated using the raw water while the soft water stored in the sump is sprayed into the inside of the tub during at least one of the washing process and the rinsing process.

[0197] The control unit may open the first valve and the second valve to supply the softened water to the tub at the start of the washing cycle and at the start of the rinsing cycle, close the third valve, the fourth valve, and the fifth valve, and close the second valve and open the fifth valve based on a predetermined amount of the softened water being stored in the tub.

[0198] The control unit can close the first valve, the second valve, and the third valve, and open the fourth valve and the fifth valve, so that the deionization device is regenerated using the used water during at least one of the washing process and the rinsing process.

[0199] The control unit can control the plurality of valves so that the deionization device is regenerated using the used water in at least one of the draining step of the washing process and the draining step of the rinsing process.

[0200] The above control unit can control the plurality of valves so that the deionization device is regenerated using the used water in the last rinsing cycle among the plurality of rinsing cycles.

[0201] The dishwasher may further include a turbidity sensor that detects the turbidity of the used water. The control unit may determine to regenerate the deionization device using the used water based on whether the turbidity of the used water is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold value.

[0202] One end of the fourth flow path may be connected to the first flow path, and the other end of the fourth flow path may be connected to the third flow path. The first branch point where the third flow path and the fourth flow path are connected may be located closer to the drain of the sump than the second branch point where the third flow path and the fifth flow path are connected. The third valve may be located between the first branch point and the second branch point.

[0203] The dishwasher may further include a water tank; and a sixth valve for opening or closing a sixth channel connecting the third channel and the water tank.

[0204] The control unit may open and then close the sixth valve for a predetermined period of time so that the used water is stored in the water tank while a plurality of rinsing operations are performed. The control unit may open the sixth valve so that the deionizing device is further regenerated using the used water stored in the water tank after the completion of the last rinsing operation among the plurality of rinsing operations.

[0205] The dishwasher may further include a drain filter connected to the drain of the sump.

[0206] The dishwasher may further include a water filter connected to the inlet of the deionizing device.

[0207] A control method for a dishwasher comprising a tub, a sump provided at a lower portion of the tub, a deionizing device that generates soft water using raw water supplied from a water source and supplies the soft water to the sump, at least one of a pipe and a hose, and a control unit including a plurality of passages through which the raw water, the soft water, and used water collected in the sump flow, and at least one processor, according to one embodiment of the present invention, comprises: supplying the soft water to the sump to wash dishes positioned in the tub by controlling a plurality of valves provided in the deionizing device and the plurality of passages by the control unit in a washing cycle and a rinsing cycle; and performing regeneration of the deionizing device using the raw water or the used water by controlling the plurality of valves by the control unit in at least one of the washing cycle and the rinsing cycle.

[0208] Performing regeneration of the deionization device using the raw water may include opening a first valve to open a first flow path for supplying the raw water to the deionization device; closing a second valve to close a second flow path for supplying the soft water generated by the deionization device to the sump; closing a third valve to close a third flow path for discharging the used water collected in the sump to the outside; closing a fourth valve to close a fourth flow path for supplying the used water to the deionization device; and opening a fifth valve to open a fifth flow path connecting the second flow path and the third flow path.

[0209] The regeneration of the deionization device using the raw water can be performed while the softened water stored in the sump is sprayed into the inside of the tub during at least one of the washing process and the rinsing process.

[0210] Supplying the softened water to the sump may include opening the first valve and the second valve, closing the third valve, the fourth valve, and the fifth valve at the start of the washing cycle and at the start of the rinsing cycle; and closing the second valve and opening the fifth valve based on a predetermined amount of the softened water being stored in the tub.

[0211] Performing regeneration of the deionization device using the above-described used water may include: closing a first valve to close a first flow path that supplies the raw water to the deionization device; closing a second valve to close a second flow path that supplies the softened water generated by the deionization device to the sump; closing a third valve to close a third flow path that drains the used water collected in the sump to the outside; opening a fourth valve to open a fourth flow path that supplies the used water to the deionization device; and opening a fifth valve to open a fifth flow path that connects the second flow path and the third flow path.

[0212] Regeneration of the deionization device using the above-mentioned usage water can be performed in at least one of the draining step of the washing process and the draining step of the rinsing process.

[0213] Regeneration of the deionization device using the above-mentioned usage water can be performed in the last rinsing cycle among multiple rinsing cycles.

[0214] The disclosed dishwasher and its control method can regenerate a deionizing device using raw water supplied from a water source or water used for dishwashing, without a separate water tank. The disclosed dishwasher can have a relatively compact structure, and the omission of a water tank facilitates sanitary management of the dishwasher. Furthermore, by using water used for dishwashing to regenerate the deionizing device, the use of raw water can be reduced.

[0215] The disclosed dishwasher and its control method can perform regeneration of the deionization device while a washing cycle for washing dishes is being performed. Since dishwashing and regeneration of the deionization device can be performed simultaneously, additional time for regenerating the deionization device is unnecessary, and user convenience can be improved.

[0216] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a storage medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments.

[0217] A device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0218] The methods according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0219] The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. Cabinet; A tub placed within the above cabinet; A sump provided at the bottom of the above tub; A deionization device comprising at least one electrode, generating soft water using raw water supplied from a water source, and supplying the soft water to the sump; A plurality of flow paths including at least one pipe or at least one hose, through which the raw water, the softened water and the used water collected in the sump flow; A plurality of valves provided in each of the plurality of above-mentioned euros; and A dishwasher comprising at least one processor, and a control unit for controlling the plurality of valves to perform regeneration of the deionizing device using the raw water or the used water in at least one of a washing cycle and a rinsing cycle.

2. In paragraph 1, The above multiple valves A first valve for opening or closing a first flow path supplying the raw water to the deionization device; A second valve for opening or closing a second path for supplying the soft water generated by the deionization device to the sump; A third valve for opening or closing a third passage for draining the used water collected in the sump to the outside; A fourth valve for opening or closing the fourth flow path that supplies the water used to the deionization device; and A dishwasher comprising a fifth valve for opening or closing a fifth flow path connecting the second flow path and the third flow path.

3. In paragraph 2, The above control unit A dishwasher, wherein the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve are closed and the first valve and the fifth valve are opened so that the deionization device is regenerated using the raw water during at least one of the washing cycle and the rinsing cycle.

4. In paragraph 3, The above control unit A dishwasher that controls the plurality of valves so that the deionizing device is regenerated using the raw water while the softened water stored in the sump is sprayed into the inside of the tub during at least one of the washing cycle and the rinsing cycle.

5. In paragraph 3, The above control unit At the start of the washing cycle and at the start of the rinsing cycle, the first valve and the second valve are opened to supply the soft water to the tub, and the third valve, the fourth valve and the fifth valve are closed. A dishwasher that closes the second valve and opens the fifth valve based on a predetermined amount of the water stored in the tub.

6. In paragraph 2, The above control unit A dishwasher, wherein, in at least one of the washing cycle and the rinsing cycle, the first valve, the second valve and the third valve are closed, and the fourth valve and the fifth valve are opened so that the deionization device is regenerated using the used water.

7. In paragraph 6, The above control unit A dishwasher that controls the plurality of valves so that the deionizing device is regenerated using the used water during at least one of the draining step of the washing cycle and the draining step of the rinsing cycle.

8. In paragraph 6, The above control unit A dishwasher that controls the plurality of valves so that the deionizing device is regenerated using the used water in the last rinse cycle among the plurality of rinse cycles.

9. In paragraph 6, Further comprising a turbidity sensor for detecting the turbidity of the water used; The above control unit A dishwasher that determines regeneration of the deionization device using the used water based on the turbidity of the used water being less than or equal to a predetermined threshold value.

10. In paragraph 2, One end of the fourth euro is connected to the first euro, and the other end of the fourth euro is connected to the third euro, The first branch point where the third and fourth euros are connected is located closer to the drain of the sump than the second branch point where the third and fifth euros are connected. A dishwasher wherein the third valve is located between the first branch point and the second branch point.

11. In paragraph 2, water bottle; and Further comprising a sixth valve for opening or closing the sixth flow connecting the third flow and the water tank; The above control unit The sixth valve is opened for a predetermined time and then closed so that the used water is stored in the water tank while multiple rinsing operations are performed. A dishwasher that opens the sixth valve so that the deionizing device is further regenerated using the used water stored in the water tank after the last rinse cycle among the plurality of rinse cycles is completed.

12. In paragraph 1, A dishwasher further comprising a drain filter connected to the drain outlet of the sump.

13. In paragraph 1, A dishwasher further comprising a water filter connected to the inlet of the deionization device.

14. A control method for a dishwasher including a tub, a sump provided at the bottom of the tub, a deionization device that generates soft water using raw water supplied from a water source and supplies the soft water to the sump, a plurality of paths through which the raw water, the soft water, and the used water collected in the sump flow, and a control unit including at least one processor, In the washing cycle and the rinsing cycle, the control unit controls the deionizing device and the plurality of valves provided in the plurality of paths to supply the softened water to the sump for washing the dishes located in the tub; A control method for a dishwasher, comprising: performing regeneration of the deionizing device using the raw water or the used water by controlling the plurality of valves by the control unit during at least one of the washing process and the rinsing process.

15. In paragraph 14, Regeneration of the deionization device using the above raw material is performed, Open the first valve to open the first flow path supplying the raw water to the deionization device; Close the second valve to close the second path supplying the soft water generated by the deionization device to the sump; Close the third valve to close the third passage for draining the used water collected in the sump to the outside; Close the fourth valve to close the fourth flow path supplying the water to the deionizer; A control method for a dishwasher, comprising: opening a fifth valve to open a fifth passage connecting the second passage and the third passage.

Images