Water tank assembly and dishwasher

Abstract

A water tank assembly, comprising a water tank (3) and a heat exchanger (7). The water tank (3) is provided with a water storage space (301), a plurality of flow paths, and a plurality of water path interfaces. At least a portion of the plurality of water path interfaces are in communication with the plurality of flow paths, respectively. The heat exchanger (7) is disposed in the water tank (3). The heat exchanger (7) comprises a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel. The first heat exchange channel is in communication with the water storage space (301). The second heat exchange channel is in heat exchange cooperation with the first heat exchange channel. The plurality of flow paths comprise heat exchange flow paths in communication with the first heat exchange channel and / or the second heat exchange channel.

Description

Water tank assembly and dishwasher

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to the following Chinese patent applications filed on August 30, 2024: application number 202411220040.7, entitled "Water Tank Assembly and Dishwasher"; application number 202422140799.6, entitled "Water Tank Assembly and Dishwasher"; and application number 202422140987.9, entitled "Water Tank Assembly and Dishwasher", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of kitchen appliance technology, and in particular to a water tank assembly and a dishwasher. Background Technology

[0004] In related technologies, dishwashers generally use electrically heated high-temperature hot water to wash dishes, and the wastewater after washing is directly discharged, thus wasting a lot of heat and increasing the energy consumption of the dishwasher.

[0005] Application content

[0006] One objective of this application is to provide a water tank assembly, wherein the water tank is equipped with a heat exchanger, which can realize heat exchange of the water stored in the water tank.

[0007] A water tank assembly according to an embodiment of this application is used in a dishwasher. The water tank assembly includes a water tank and a heat exchanger. The water tank is provided with a water storage space, multiple flow paths, and multiple water interface. At least a portion of the multiple water interface is respectively connected to the multiple flow paths. The heat exchanger is disposed in the water tank and includes a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel. The first heat exchange channel is connected to the water storage space, and the second heat exchange channel is heat exchanged with the first heat exchange channel. The multiple flow paths include heat exchange flow paths connected to the first heat exchange channel and / or the second heat exchange channel.

[0008] According to the water tank assembly of the present application embodiment, the water tank is equipped with a heat exchanger, which can realize heat exchange of the water stored in the water tank.

[0009] In some embodiments, the heat exchange flow path includes a first flow path, the plurality of water interface includes a first interface and a second interface, one end of the first heat exchange channel is connected to the water storage space, one end of the first flow path is connected to the other end of the first heat exchange channel, the other end of the first flow path is connected to the first interface, and the second interface is connected to the water storage space.

[0010] In some embodiments, the heat exchange flow path further includes a third flow path and a fourth flow path, and the plurality of water interface includes a third interface and a fourth interface. One end of the third flow path is connected to one end of the second heat exchange channel and the other end is connected to the third interface. One end of the fourth flow path is connected to the other end of the second heat exchange channel and the other end is connected to the fourth interface.

[0011] In some embodiments, the lower end of the second heat exchange channel is connected to the third flow path, and the upper end of the second heat exchange channel is connected to the fourth flow path.

[0012] In some embodiments, the plurality of flow paths further includes a fifth flow path and a sixth flow path, wherein the lower end of the fifth flow path is connected to the second heat exchange channel and the upper end extends to the upper part of the water tank and connects to the external space of the water tank; the upper end of the sixth flow path is connected to the upper end of the fifth flow path and the lower end is connected to the fourth flow path.

[0013] In some embodiments, the plurality of flow paths further includes a water inlet flow path, and the plurality of water path interfaces include a fifth interface and a sixth interface, with the two ends of the water inlet flow path respectively connected to the fifth interface and the sixth interface.

[0014] In some embodiments, the water inlet path and the heat exchange path are respectively located on the left and right sides of the water storage space.

[0015] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the inlet flow path is inclined toward the heat exchange flow path in a downward direction.

[0016] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the heat exchange flow path is inclined toward the water inlet flow path in a top-to-bottom direction.

[0017] In some embodiments, the plurality of flow paths further includes a water replenishment flow path, and the plurality of water interface further includes a seventh interface. One end of the water replenishment flow path is located at the upper end of the water storage space and is connected to the water storage space, and the other end of the water replenishment flow path is connected to the seventh interface.

[0018] In some embodiments, the water replenishment path is located on the side of the water storage space near the water inlet path.

[0019] In some embodiments, the plurality of water interfaces further includes an eighth interface, which is connected to the lower end of the water storage space.

[0020] In some embodiments, the water tank assembly further includes a first switching valve for opening and closing the eighth interface.

[0021] In some embodiments, the plurality of water inlets are located at the lower end of the water tank and are arranged side by side in the left-right direction.

[0022] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger is located on the side of the water storage space.

[0023] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger is vertically mounted on the water tank along its length.

[0024] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger includes a heat exchange space, in which a plurality of heat exchange tubes are arranged at intervals, a first heat exchange channel is formed within the heat exchange tubes, and a second heat exchange channel is formed between the plurality of heat exchange tubes.

[0025] In some embodiments, the water tank includes a tank body with a mounting groove, the inner wall of which is provided with an inlet port and an outlet port; the heat exchanger is disposed in the mounting groove, the heat exchanger includes a shell, an inlet end and an outlet end, the inlet end and the outlet end are disposed at opposite ends of the shell, the inlet end is connected to the inlet port, and the outlet end is connected to the outlet port.

[0026] In some embodiments, the water tank extends vertically, the heat exchanger extends in the same direction as the water tank, and the heat exchanger is disposed in the mounting groove along the vertical direction.

[0027] In some embodiments, a gap exists between the housing and the inner wall of the mounting groove in the vertical direction, and the heat exchanger is movably disposed in the mounting groove along the vertical direction.

[0028] In some embodiments, the water tank assembly further includes a fixing block disposed in the gap between the heat exchanger and the inner wall of the mounting groove, and sleeved on the outer periphery of the water inlet end or the water outlet end.

[0029] In some embodiments, the water inlet end is located at the second end of the housing along the vertical direction, and the water outlet end is located at the first end of the housing along the vertical direction.

[0030] In some embodiments, the distance from the water inlet end to the first end of the housing is L2, and the distance from the water inlet port to the water outlet port is L1, wherein L2 is less than L1.

[0031] In some embodiments, the water inlet end extends into the water inlet port, and the water outlet end extends into the water outlet port.

[0032] In some embodiments, the water tank assembly further includes a sealing ring, which is sleeved on the outer periphery of the water inlet end and seals between the water inlet end and the water inlet port.

[0033] In some embodiments, the sealing ring is sleeved on the outer periphery of the water outlet end, and the sealing ring seals between the water outlet end and the water outlet port.

[0034] In some embodiments, the water tank includes a first inlet pipe and a second inlet pipe, with one end of the first inlet pipe and the second inlet pipe forming the inlet port.

[0035] In some embodiments, the water inlet end includes a first inlet pipe and a second inlet pipe, wherein the first inlet pipe is connected to the first inlet pipe and the second inlet pipe is connected to the second inlet pipe.

[0036] In some embodiments, the housing includes a first water outlet pipe and a second water outlet pipe, with one end of the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe forming the water outlet port.

[0037] In some embodiments, the water outlet includes a first outlet pipe and a second outlet pipe, wherein the first outlet pipe is connected to the first outlet pipe and the second outlet pipe is connected to the second outlet pipe.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first water inlet pipe and the second water inlet pipe are arranged side by side.

[0039] In some embodiments, the first inlet pipe and the second inlet pipe are arranged side by side.

[0040] In some embodiments, the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe are arranged side by side.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first outflow pipe and the second outflow pipe are arranged side by side.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first inlet pipe extends into the first water inlet pipe, and a first sealing ring is provided between the first water inlet pipe and the first inlet pipe.

[0043] In some embodiments, the second inlet pipe extends into the second water inlet pipe, and a second sealing ring is provided between the second inlet pipe and the second water inlet pipe.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first outflow pipe extends into the first water outlet pipe, and a third sealing ring is provided between the first water outlet pipe and the first outflow pipe.

[0045] In some embodiments, the second outflow pipe extends into the second water outlet pipe, and a fourth sealing ring is provided between the second outflow pipe and the second water outlet pipe.

[0046] Another objective of this application is to propose a dishwasher.

[0047] The dishwasher according to an embodiment of this application includes the aforementioned water tank assembly.

[0048] In some embodiments, the dishwasher further includes a water cup, and the second heat exchange channel is connected to the water cup.

[0049] In some embodiments, the dishwasher further includes a water softener connected to the water tank assembly.

[0050] In some embodiments, the plurality of flow paths includes an inlet flow path, the inlet of which is connected to a water source and the outlet of which is connected to the water softener.

[0051] In some embodiments, the water softener has multiple channels and multiple water tank interfaces, the multiple water tank interfaces are respectively connected to the multiple channels, and the multiple water tank interfaces are respectively connected to the multiple water circuit interfaces.

[0052] Another objective of this application is to provide a water tank assembly.

[0053] A water tank assembly according to an embodiment of this application is used in a dishwasher and includes: a water tank and a heat exchanger. The water tank includes a housing with a mounting groove. The inner wall of the mounting groove is provided with a water inlet port and a water outlet port. The heat exchanger is disposed in the mounting groove and includes a housing inlet end and a water outlet end. The water inlet end and the water outlet end are disposed at opposite ends of the housing. The water inlet end is connected to the water inlet port, and the water outlet end is connected to the water outlet port.

[0054] According to the embodiments of the present application, by installing a heat exchanger in the water tank, the manufacturing cost of the water tank assembly can be reduced, and it is also convenient for repair and maintenance.

[0055] In some embodiments, the water tank extends vertically, the heat exchanger extends in the same direction as the water tank, and the heat exchanger is disposed in the mounting groove along the vertical direction.

[0056] In some embodiments, in the vertical direction, there is a gap between the heat exchanger and the inner wall of the mounting groove, and the heat exchanger is movably disposed in the mounting groove along the vertical direction.

[0057] In some embodiments, the water tank assembly further includes a fixing block disposed in the gap between the heat exchanger and the inner wall of the mounting groove, and sleeved on the outer periphery of the water inlet end or the water outlet end.

[0058] In some embodiments, the water inlet end is located at the second end of the housing along the vertical direction, the water outlet end is located at the first end of the housing along the vertical direction, the distance from the water inlet end to the first end of the housing is L2, and the distance from the water inlet port to the water outlet port is L1, wherein L2 is less than L1.

[0059] In some embodiments, the water inlet end extends into the water inlet port, and the water outlet end extends into the water outlet port.

[0060] In some embodiments, the water tank assembly further includes a sealing ring, which is sleeved on the outer periphery of the water inlet end and seals between the water inlet end and the water inlet port.

[0061] In some embodiments, the sealing ring is sleeved on the outer periphery of the water outlet end, and the sealing ring seals between the water outlet end and the water outlet port.

[0062] In some embodiments, the water tank includes a first inlet pipe and a second inlet pipe, one end of the first inlet pipe and the second inlet pipe forming the inlet port, the inlet end including a first inlet pipe and a second inlet pipe, the first inlet pipe being connected to the first inlet pipe, and the second inlet pipe being connected to the second inlet pipe.

[0063] In some embodiments, the water tank includes a first water outlet pipe and a second water outlet pipe, one end of the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe forming the water outlet port, the water outlet end including a first outflow pipe and a second outflow pipe, the first water outlet pipe being connected to the first outflow pipe, and the second water outlet pipe being connected to the second outflow pipe.

[0064] In some embodiments, the first water inlet pipe and the second water inlet pipe are arranged side by side, and the first inlet pipe and the second inlet pipe are arranged side by side.

[0065] In some embodiments, the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe are arranged side by side, and the first outflow pipe and the second outflow pipe are arranged side by side.

[0066] In some embodiments, the first inlet pipe extends into the first water inlet pipe, and a first sealing ring is provided between the first water inlet pipe and the first inlet pipe.

[0067] In some embodiments, the second inlet pipe extends into the second water inlet pipe, and a second sealing ring is provided between the second inlet pipe and the second water inlet pipe.

[0068] In some embodiments, the first outflow pipe extends into the first water outlet pipe, and a third sealing ring is provided between the first water outlet pipe and the first outflow pipe.

[0069] In some embodiments, the second outflow pipe extends into the second water outlet pipe, and a fourth sealing ring is provided between the second outflow pipe and the second water outlet pipe.

[0070] Another objective of this application is to propose a dishwasher.

[0071] The dishwasher according to an embodiment of this application includes the aforementioned water tank assembly.

[0072] The dishwasher according to the embodiments of this application includes the aforementioned water tank assembly. By applying the aforementioned water tank assembly to the dishwasher, it is easier to repair and maintain the dishwasher and improve its durability. Attached Figure Description

[0073] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a water tank assembly according to some embodiments of this application;

[0074] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the flow path system of a dishwasher according to some embodiments of this application;

[0075] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water tank assembly in some embodiments of this application;

[0076] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water tank assembly in some embodiments of this application;

[0077] Figure 5 is an exploded view of the water tank assembly in some embodiments of this application (where the dashed lines indicate the assembly direction);

[0078] Figure 6 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the water tank assembly in some embodiments of this application (showing the state when the water tank and heat exchanger are separated);

[0079] Figure 7 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the water tank assembly in some embodiments of this application (showing the state of the water tank and heat exchanger during assembly, the fixing block is not shown);

[0080] Figure 8 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the water tank assembly in some embodiments of this application (showing the state of the water tank and heat exchanger during assembly, the fixing block is not shown);

[0081] Figure 9 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the water tank assembly in some embodiments of this application (showing the state of the heat exchanger assembly and water tank).

[0082] Reference numerals: 2. Second channel; 3. Water tank; 4. Water tank inlet; 5. Inner tank connection port; 6. Cold water outlet; 7. Heat exchanger; 71. Shell; 72. Water inlet end. 73. Water outlet end, 75. Heat exchange section, 8. Water supply path, 10. Water tank, 11. Check valve, 12. Water inlet path, 13. Drainage anti-siphon structure, 14. Flow meter, 15. First pipe, 16. Second pipe, 17. Drainage pipe, 18. Water inlet pipe, 19. Water softener, 20. First connection port, 21. First cold water pipe, 22. Third pipe, 23. First switch valve, 24. Water distribution structure, 25. Water pump, 26. Second cold water pipe, 27. Fourth pipe, 28. Water cup inlet, 29. Drain pump, 30. First hot water pipe, 31. Second switch valve, 32. Second hot water pipe, 33. Circulation pump, 34. Water distribution valve, 35. Water cup, 36. Lower spray arm, 37. Middle spray arm, 38. Upper spray arm, 39. Inner tank, 40. Fifth pipe, 41. Sixth pipe, 42. Anti-siphon device, 43. Water storage. Space 301, first flow path 311, first interface 321, second interface 322, third flow path 313, fourth flow path 314, third interface 323, fourth interface 324, fifth flow path 315, sixth flow path 316, fifth interface 325, sixth interface 326, seventh interface 327, eighth interface 328, water tank assembly 100, tank body 110, mounting slot 101, water inlet port 120, first water inlet pipe 121, second water inlet pipe 122, water outlet port 130, first water outlet pipe 131, second water outlet pipe 132, first inlet pipe 223, second inlet pipe 224, first outlet pipe 233, second outlet pipe 234, fixing block 50, first sealing ring 61, second sealing ring 62, third sealing ring 63, fourth sealing ring 64. Detailed Implementation

[0083] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0084] As shown in Figure 1, a water tank assembly 100 according to an embodiment of this application is used in a dishwasher. The water tank assembly 100 includes a water tank 3, which has a water storage space 301, multiple flow paths, and multiple water interface ports. At least a portion of the multiple water interface ports is connected to the multiple flow paths respectively. The water tank assembly 100 also includes a heat exchanger 7, which is disposed in the water tank 3. The heat exchanger 7 includes a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel. The first heat exchange channel is connected to the water storage space 301, and the second heat exchange channel cooperates with the first heat exchange channel for heat exchange. The multiple flow paths include heat exchange flow paths connected to the first heat exchange channel and / or the second heat exchange channel. The water in the water tank 3 can exchange heat with the fluid in the second heat exchange channel when passing through the first heat exchange channel. The fluid in the second heat exchange channel can be wastewater with residual heat from the washing process, or other types of hot water, etc. The heat exchanger 7 can be used to regulate the water temperature in the water tank 3. When the water in the water tank 3 needs to be used for washing, the preheating of the water in the water tank 3 can improve the working efficiency of the dishwasher. In addition, the second heat exchange channel can be connected to a water cup so that the hot water with residual heat during the washing process can be used to heat the water in the water tank 3, which can improve the energy efficiency of the dishwasher.

[0085] According to the water tank assembly 100 of this application embodiment, the water tank 3 is provided with a heat exchanger 7, which can realize heat exchange of the water stored in the water tank 3. By placing the heat exchanger 7 in the water tank 3, the integration of the dishwasher can be improved, and the assembly and maintenance of the dishwasher can be facilitated. In addition, by placing the heat exchanger 7 in the water tank 3, the piping of the water tank assembly 100 can be shortened, the heat exchange efficiency can be improved, and the leakage points can be reduced.

[0086] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the heat exchange flow path includes a first flow path 311, and multiple water interfaces include a first interface 321 and a second interface 322. One end of the first heat exchange channel is connected to the water storage space 301, one end of the first flow path 311 is connected to the other end of the first heat exchange channel, the other end of the first flow path 311 is connected to the first interface 321, and the second interface 322 is connected to the water storage space 301. During use, the water in the water tank 3 can be connected to the first heat exchange channel of the heat exchanger 7 through the first flow path 311, so that the heat exchanger 7 can be used to achieve heat exchange of the water in the water tank 3. The dishwasher may also include a water pump, which can be connected to the first interface 321 and the second interface 322, so that the water tank 3, the first flow path 311, the first heat exchange channel, and the water pump are connected to form a circulation loop.

[0087] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the heat exchange flow path also includes a third flow path 313 and a fourth flow path 314. Multiple water interfaces include a third interface 323 and a fourth interface 324. One end of the third flow path 313 is connected to one end of the second heat exchange channel, and the other end is connected to the third interface 323. One end of the fourth flow path 314 is connected to the other end of the second heat exchange channel, and the other end is connected to the fourth interface 324. The third interface 323 and the fourth interface 324 can connect to a water cup and a circulation pump, thus forming a loop. For example, the outlet of the water cup is connected to the inlet of the circulation pump, the outlet of the circulation pump is connected to the third interface 323, and the fourth interface 324 is connected to the inlet of the water cup, thus forming a fluid passage to utilize the residual heat in the water cup to heat the water in the water tank 3, achieving waste heat recovery of the washing water.

[0088] In some embodiments, the lower end of the second heat exchange channel is connected to the third flow path 313, and the upper end of the second heat exchange channel is connected to the fourth flow path 314. This facilitates the assembly and distribution of the heat exchanger 7 and the water tank 3, improves space utilization, and facilitates heat exchange.

[0089] Furthermore, the multiple flow paths also include a fifth flow path 315 and a sixth flow path 316. The lower end of the fifth flow path 315 is connected to the second heat exchange channel, and the upper end extends to the upper part of the water tank 3 and connects to the external space of the water tank 3. The upper end of the sixth flow path 316 is connected to the upper end of the fifth flow path 315, and the lower end is connected to the fourth flow path 314. Through the fifth flow path 315 and the sixth flow path 316, the air pressure balance inside and outside the fourth flow path 314 can be achieved, so as to facilitate the flow of fluid through the fourth flow path 314 and the passage in which the fourth flow path 314 is located. In addition, after the heat exchange is completed, the fluid in the fourth flow path 314 can be easily drained.

[0090] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the multiple flow paths also include a water inlet flow path 12, and multiple water interface elements include a fifth interface 325 and a sixth interface 326. The two ends of the water inlet flow path 12 are respectively connected to the fifth interface 325 and the sixth interface 326. By integrating the water inlet flow path 12 into the water tank 3, the structure of the dishwasher can be simplified, facilitating the production and assembly of the dishwasher.

[0091] Additionally, the water tank assembly 100 may also include a one-way valve 11, which is located in the water inlet flow path 12 and configured to allow unidirectional flow from the fifth port 325 to the sixth port 326, thereby preventing siphoning in the water inlet flow path 12. Furthermore, the water tank assembly 100 may also include a flow meter 14, which can be connected in series with the water inlet flow path 12. Through the cooperation of the flow meter 14 and the inlet valve, a quantitative water supply can be achieved.

[0092] In some embodiments, the water inlet flow path 12 and the heat exchange flow path are respectively located on the left and right sides of the water storage space 301, which can optimize the distribution of the flow path in the water tank 3 and improve the stability of the dishwasher. In addition, the heat exchanger 7 and the heat exchange flow path can be located on the same side of the water storage space 301 in the left and right direction.

[0093] At least a portion of the water inlet flow path 12 is inclined towards the heat exchange flow path in a downward direction; and / or, at least a portion of the heat exchange flow path is inclined towards the water inlet flow path 12 in a downward direction. This allows multiple water inlets to be conveniently concentrated at the middle position of the lower end of the water tank 3, facilitating the connection between the water tank 3 and other structures via water inlets, thus simplifying the structure of the dishwasher.

[0094] For example, the dishwasher of this application may also include a water softener 20, which may include multiple water tank interfaces, and the multiple water tank interfaces are respectively connected to multiple water circuit interfaces. In this case, by bringing the lower ends of the heat exchange flow path and the water inlet flow path 12 closer to each other, the size of the multiple water circuit interfaces in the left and right directions can be reduced, so as to facilitate the connection between the water tank 3 and the water softener 20 and facilitate the assembly of the dishwasher.

[0095] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the multiple flow paths also include a water replenishment flow path 8, which is used to replenish water into the water tank 3. The multiple water interface also includes a seventh interface 327. One end of the water replenishment flow path 8 is located at the upper end of the water storage space 301 and connects to the water storage space 301. The other end of the water replenishment flow path 8 connects to the seventh interface 327. The water replenishment flow path 8 is located on the side of the water storage space 301 near the inlet flow path 12. This allows for convenient water supply to the water replenishment flow path 8 through the seventh interface 327, facilitating water replenishment to the water tank 3.

[0096] In some embodiments, the plurality of water interfaces further includes an eighth interface 328, which is connected to the lower end of the water storage space 301. The water tank assembly 100 also includes a first switch valve, which is used to open and close the eighth interface. The eighth interface 328 can serve as the outlet of the water tank 3, facilitating the discharge of water from the water tank 3. For example, by opening the first switch valve, water from the water tank 3 can be discharged into the water cup 36 through the fourth interface 324 for use in a dishwasher.

[0097] In some embodiments, multiple water inlets are located at the lower end of the water tank 3 and arranged side-by-side in the left-right direction. This simplifies the structure of the water tank 3 and facilitates its connection with other structures. For example, multiple water inlets can be connected to the water softener 20, which can have multiple water tank inlets. This allows the multiple water inlets and water tank inlets to be connected correspondingly, achieving a stable connection between the water tank 3 and the water softener 20, simplifying the flow path distribution, and improving the stability of the dishwasher.

[0098] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger 7 is located on the side of the water storage space 301, which facilitates the arrangement of the heat exchanger 7 and the water tank 3 and optimizes the component distribution of the water tank assembly 100. Additionally, the heat exchanger 7 is vertically mounted on the water tank along its length. For example, the water tank is configured to extend vertically, and the heat exchanger 7 is located on the water tank and extends vertically. This facilitates the connection of the heat exchanger 7 to the water interface.

[0099] In addition, the heat exchanger 7 includes a heat exchange space containing multiple heat exchange tubes spaced apart. A first heat exchange channel is formed within each heat exchange tube, and a second heat exchange channel is formed between the multiple heat exchange tubes, thus optimizing the heat exchange between the first and second heat exchange channels. The multiple heat exchange tubes can be arranged spaced apart along the width of the heat exchanger 7. The multiple heat exchange tubes form multiple first heat exchange channels, and a second heat exchange channel can be formed between adjacent heat exchange tubes and / or between the heat exchange tubes and the inner surface of the heat exchange space. The first and second heat exchange channels exchange heat through the tube walls. The heat exchange tubes can be microchannel flat tubes, which can further improve the heat exchange efficiency between the first and second heat exchange channels.

[0100] In some embodiments, the first heat exchange channel extends vertically, and the second heat exchange channel extends vertically. The first heat exchange channel and the second heat exchange channel are arranged side by side along the width direction of the heat exchanger 7.

[0101] In some examples, the water tank 3 integrates a heat exchange space, and the heat exchanger 7 and the water tank 3 are integrated into one structure. This can improve the integration of the water tank components. In addition, the heat radiated outward by the fluid in the second heat exchange channel can be directly transferred to the water storage space, which can further optimize waste heat recovery and save energy and protect the environment.

[0102] In other examples, the heat exchanger 7 includes a shell, a heat exchange space is disposed within the shell, and the shell is mounted on the water tank 3. The heat exchanger 7 and the water tank 3 are designed as separate structures. The shells of the water tank 3 and the heat exchanger 7 are formed separately, which simplifies the structure of the water tank. The water tank 3 has a hollow structure, with a first opening and a second opening at one end and a third opening and a fourth opening at the other end. One end of the shell has a first connecting pipe and a second connecting pipe, and the other end of the shell has a third connecting pipe and a fourth connecting pipe. The first connecting pipe passes through the first opening, the second connecting pipe passes through the second opening, the third connecting pipe passes through the third opening, and the fourth connecting pipe passes through the fourth opening. The first connecting pipe and the third connecting pipe connect to the first heat exchange channel, and the second connecting pipe and the fourth connecting pipe connect to the second heat exchange channel.

[0103] In some embodiments, the water tank 3 is provided with a first opening, a second opening, a third opening and a fourth opening. The first opening is connected to a first flow path, the second opening is connected to a third flow path, the third opening is connected to a water storage space 301, and the fourth opening is connected to a fifth flow path.

[0104] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the dishwasher according to an embodiment of this application includes: a water cup 36; the aforementioned water tank assembly 100; and a second heat exchange channel connected to the water cup 36. Specifically, the washing water containing residual heat in the water cup 36 can be introduced into the second heat exchange channel, while the first heat exchange channel is connected to the water storage space 301. This allows the washing water containing residual heat to heat the water in the water tank 3, achieving waste heat recovery and energy conservation and environmental protection.

[0105] In some embodiments, the dishwasher also includes a water softener 20, which is connected to the water tank assembly 100. Multiple flow paths include an inlet flow path 12, whose inlet is connected to a water source and whose outlet is connected to the water softener 20. The water softener 20 may have an inlet and a resin chamber. The inlet may be connected to a fifth interface 325, and the inlet of the resin chamber may be connected to a sixth interface 326. Additionally, the water softener 20 may have a water cup 36 interface for connecting to the inlet of the water cup 36, thereby allowing softened water to be introduced into the water cup 36.

[0106] In some embodiments, the water softener 20 has multiple channels and multiple water tank interfaces, with each water tank interface connected to a different channel, and each water tank interface correspondingly connected to a different water circuit interface. This improves the integration of the dishwasher and reduces potential leaks.

[0107] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the dishwasher according to an embodiment of this application includes a water cup 36, which is used for temporary water storage and filtering of washing water. During the use of the dishwasher, the water used in the washing process can be stored in the water cup 36 to facilitate centralized discharge of washing water and collection of washing residue. It also includes a water tank 3, which has a water storage space for storing water, thus facilitating the operation of the dishwasher and improving washing efficiency and effectiveness. Additionally, it may include a washing chamber with a washing space for placing tableware to be washed. The water cup 36 can be located at the bottom of the washing chamber and communicate with the washing space.

[0108] Additionally, the dishwasher may include a first switching valve 24, one end of which is connected to the outlet of the water tank 3. The first switching valve 24 can be used to control the opening and closing of the outlet of the water tank 3. It also includes a water distribution structure 25, which has a first connection port 21, a second connection port, and a third connection port. The first connection port 21 connects to the other end of the first switching valve 24 and the water inlet path 12; the second connection port connects to the inlet of the water tank 3; and the third connection port connects to the inlet of the water cup 36. The water flow direction can be controlled by the sorting structure.

[0109] According to the embodiments of this application, the dishwasher can adjust the water flow direction through the linkage of the first switching valve 24 and the water distribution structure 25. For example, the combination of the first switching valve 24 and the water distribution structure 25 can control the water source to supply water to the water cup 36 or control the water source to replenish water to the water tank 3; it can also control the water tank 3 or the water source to supply water to the water cup 36 to meet different water needs. This makes the dishwasher more convenient to use.

[0110] In addition, the water tank 3 in this application can be stacked on the side wall, bottom wall or top wall of the washing tank, etc.

[0111] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the dishwasher has at least two operating modes. The water distribution structure 25 is configured to selectively connect the first connection port 21 to the second and third connection ports according to the at least two operating modes. Thus, the operating modes of the dishwasher can be switched by adjusting the water distribution structure 25, facilitating the use of the dishwasher.

[0112] In some embodiments, the dishwasher in this application may include, but is not limited to, the following operating modes.

[0113] In some examples, the dishwasher has a first operating mode in which the first switch valve 24 is closed and the first connection port 21 and the second connection port are connected to replenish water to the water tank 3. In the first operating mode, after the water from the inlet flow path 12 reaches the first connection port 21, the water will flow to the second connection port, thereby replenishing water to the water tank 3. A water level sensor can be installed in the water tank 3 or a flow sensor can be installed in the inlet flow path 12. When the water level in the water tank 3 reaches the preset water level, the inlet flow path 12 will be closed, thus completing the replenishment of water to the water tank 3.

[0114] In some examples, the dishwasher also has a second operating mode. In this mode, the first switch valve 24 is closed, and the first connection port 21 and the third connection port are connected for replenishing water to the water cup 36. In this second operating mode, after the water from the inlet flow path 12 reaches the first connection port 21, the water will flow to the third connection port, thereby supplying water to the water cup 36. A flow sensor can be installed in the inlet flow path 12. When the water level in the water cup 36 reaches a preset level, the inlet flow path 12 will be closed, thus completing the water supply to the water cup 36.

[0115] In some examples, the dishwasher also has a third operating mode. In this mode, the first switch valve 24 is open, and the first connection port 21 and the third connection port are connected to supply water to the water cup 36 through the water tank 3. In the third operating mode, the water inlet path 12 is closed, and the water in the water tank 3 flows out from the outlet, passes through the first switch valve 24, flows to the first connection port 21, and then flows to the water cup 36 through the third connection port, thus supplying water to the water cup 36. When the water level in the water cup 36 reaches the preset water level, the first switch valve 24 can be closed, thereby completing the water supply to the water cup 36.

[0116] In some embodiments, the dishwasher also includes a water softener 20, which is connected between the water inlet path 12 and the first connection port 21 to supply softened water to the first connection port 21. By providing the water softener 20, softened water can be supplied to improve the washing efficiency and effect of the dishwasher. In addition, since the water softener 20 is located before the first connection port 21, it can supply softened water to the water tank 3 and the water cup 36, achieving full soft water washing.

[0117] In some embodiments, the water distribution structure 25 is installed in the water softener 20; and / or, at least a portion of the piping between the water distribution structure 25 and the water tank 3 is integrated into the water softener 20; and / or, at least a portion of the piping between the water distribution structure 25 and the water cup 36 is integrated into the water softener 20. This facilitates the integration of the water softener 20, simplifies the structure of the dishwasher, facilitates dishwasher maintenance, and optimizes the space utilization of the dishwasher.

[0118] In some embodiments, the water inlet path 12 is integrated into the water tank 3, the water tank 3 is connected to the water softener 20, and the water inlet path 12 communicates with the softened water flow channel within the water softener 20; and / or, the water softener 20 is provided with a water source interface, the water inlet path 12 is integrated into the water tank 3, the water tank 3 is connected to the water softener 20, and the water inlet path 12 communicates with the water source interface. The connection between the water tank 3 and the water softener 20 allows the flow path within the water tank 3 to communicate with the flow path within the water softener 20, facilitating component integration and dishwasher assembly, thereby improving the dishwasher's assembly efficiency and stability.

[0119] In some embodiments, the water tank 3 is provided with at least one water tank interface, the water softener 20 is provided with at least one water softener 20 interface, the water tank 3 is connected to the water softener 20, and the at least one water tank interface and the at least one water softener 20 interface are mated together. This simplifies the assembly structure of the water softener 20 and the water tank 3, thereby further simplifying the frame of the dishwasher.

[0120] In some embodiments, the dishwasher further includes a heat exchanger 7, which has a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel that cooperate in heat exchange. The first heat exchange channel is connected to the water storage space in the water tank 3 to form a heat exchange circuit, and the two ends of the second heat exchange channel are respectively connected to the inlet of the water cup 36 and the outlet of the circulation pump. During use, water in the water cup 36 can be sent into the second heat exchange channel, and water in the water tank 3 can be circulated through the first heat exchange channel to achieve heat exchange between the water in the water tank 3 and the wastewater in the water cup 36, thereby improving energy utilization and avoiding heat loss during the dishwasher washing process.

[0121] In some embodiments, the dishwasher further includes a circulation pump 34 and a second switching valve 32. The inlet of the circulation pump 34 is connected to the outlet of the water cup 36, and the second switching valve 32 is connected between the outlet of the circulation pump 34 and the second heat exchange channel, for connecting or disconnecting the second heat exchange channel from the outlet of the water cup 36. The circulation pump 34 can be used to pump washing water to achieve the washing of dishes in the dishwasher, while the second switching valve 32 can be used to control the direction of water flow. For example, the second heat exchange channel and the water cup 36 can be connected by opening the second switching valve 32 to achieve water circulation between the second heat exchange channel and the water cup 36; in addition, the water in the water cup 36 can be sent to the washing tank by closing the second switching valve 32 to achieve the washing of dishes and other items in the washing tank.

[0122] In some embodiments, the dishwasher in this application may include, but is not limited to, the following operating modes.

[0123] In some examples, the dishwasher also has a fourth operating mode. In this mode, the third connection port is disconnected from the first connection port 21, the circulation pump 34 operates, and the second switch valve 32 opens, allowing water from the water cup 36 to be sent to the second heat exchange channel. In the fourth operating mode, the circulation pump 34 pumps water from the water cup 36 out of the pump 26. Because the second switch valve 32 is open, the water in the water cup 36 is sent to the second heat exchange channel, where it exchanges heat with the water in the first heat exchange channel before being discharged. The water discharged from the second heat exchange channel is then sent to the inlet of the water cup 36. This achieves the purpose of using the waste heat from the wastewater in the water cup 36 to preheat the water in the hot water tank 3, improving the dishwasher's energy efficiency.

[0124] In some examples, the dishwasher also has a fifth operating mode. In this mode, the third connection port is connected to the first connection port 21, the circulation pump 34 reverses or stops, and the second switch valve 32 opens to flush the second heat exchange channel. In this fifth operating mode, water from the inlet flow path 12 or the water tank 3 can be sent to the third connection port, and after passing through the third connection port, it is sent to the second heat exchange channel. After passing through the second heat exchange channel, it is sent to the water cup 36 through the second switch valve 32, thereby achieving reverse flushing of the second heat exchange channel.

[0125] In some embodiments, a third switching valve may be provided between the third connection port and the inlet of the water cup 36. The third switching valve may be provided between the second heat exchange channel and the inlet of the water cup 36, thereby controlling the flow direction of the water delivered from the third connection port. In addition, a fourth switching valve may be provided between the second heat exchange channel and the third connection port. The third switching valve and the fourth switching valve may also be combined to form a reversing valve.

[0126] In some embodiments, a fifth switching valve may be provided between the circulating pump 34 and the water distribution valve 35. The fifth switching valve and the second switching valve 32 cooperate to control the water flow direction at the outlet of the circulating pump 34. In addition, the second switching valve 32 and the fifth switching valve may be combined to form a reversing valve.

[0127] To meet the needs of large-scale dishwashers, the heat exchange system of this application has a small overall size, simple structure, and does not occupy the space of the original inner tank 40 of the dishwasher. In addition, the heat exchanger 7 in this application is much smaller in volume than any heat exchanger 7 in the above-mentioned patent applications, and the heat exchange efficiency is greater than 90%. The auxiliary equipment and connecting pipelines used in the heat exchange system of this application are simpler and easier to install.

[0128] Some specific embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0129] Figure 2 shows a flow path system for a dishwasher, including at least one of the following: inner tank 40, water cup 36, water tank 3, heat exchanger 7, water softener 20, water distribution structure 25, circulation pump 34, water pump 26, drain pump 2630, water distribution valve 35, water inlet valve 19, drain valve, check valve 11, flow meter 14, first switching valve 24, and second switching valve 32.

[0130] The inner tank 40 has a washing space, within which at least one of a lower spray arm 37, a middle spray arm 38, and an upper spray arm 39 is provided. The lower spray arm 37, middle spray arm 38, and upper spray arm 39 are connected to a water distribution valve 35, which is connected to a circulation pump 34. The circulation pump 34 is connected to the outlet of a water cup 36. The water cup 36 is connected to the bottom of the inner tank 40 and communicates with the washing space. The water tank 3 has a water storage space and an interface for connecting to the inner tank 40. The water tank 3 is an integrated device located on the side panel of the dishwasher. The water tank 3 has a water inlet path 12, with a flow meter 14 and a one-way valve 11 connected in series in the water inlet path 12. The one-way valve 11 allows for one-way flow of the water inlet path 12 and can prevent siphoning. The heat exchanger 7 has a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel for heat exchange coordination. The first heat exchange channel is connected to the water storage space to form a loop, and the second heat exchange channel is connected to the water cup 36 to form a passage. Heat exchanger 7 is mainly used for heat exchange between cold water in water tank 3 and hot water for washing. Water softener 20 has an inlet channel and a soft water channel. The inlet channel is connected to an inlet valve 19 and communicates with the inlet of the inlet flow path 12. The inlet of the soft water channel is connected to the outlet of the inlet channel, and the outlet of the soft water channel is connected to the water distribution structure 25. The water distribution structure 25 has a first connection port 21, a second connection port, and a third connection port. The first connection port 21 connects to the outlet of the soft water channel, the second connection port connects to the inlet of water tank 3, and the third connection port connects to the water cup 36. A first switch valve 24 is connected between the first connection port 21 and the outlet of water tank 3. The main function of the one-way valve 11 is to achieve one-way flow of water and air, ensuring that water can only flow in the inlet direction and cannot flow in the reverse direction.

[0131] The water tank of this application integrates a flow path. The water tank is provided with a fourth flow path 314, which is a pipe for hot water to flow inside the water tank 3. The fourth flow path 314 can be connected to the fourth pipe 28 and is used to connect the inlet of the heat exchanger 7 and the water cup 36, so that the water in the heat exchanger 7 can enter the water cup 36 through the fourth flow path 314, the fourth pipe 28, and the inlet of the water cup 36. At this time, the second switch valve 32 and the water pump 26 can be selected as low-pressure electrical appliances (low-pressure solenoid valve and low-pressure water pump 26). When water enters the water cup 36, the water flow will enter the heat exchanger 7 in reverse through the fourth flow path 314 and pass through the first hot water pipe 31, the second switch valve 32, the second hot water pipe 33, and the circulation pump 34 into the water cup 36, completing the backwashing of the heat exchanger 7; the water tank is provided with a second channel 2, which is a venting / overflow connection channel for the water tank 3, used to connect the inner tank connection port and the upper space of the water tank 3. When the water level in the water tank 3 is too high, it can enter the inner tank 40 through the second channel 2 and the inner tank connection port 5, which is connected to the water tank 3. The water tank 3 is an integrated device, mainly integrating the fourth flow path 314, the second channel 2, the water tank inlet 4, the inner tank connection port 5, the cold water outlet 6, the water replenishment flow path 8, the third flow path 313, the first flow path 311, the one-way valve 11, the water inlet flow path 12, the drainage anti-siphon structure 13, the flow meter 14, etc.; the water tank inlet 4 is the highest point of water inlet in the water tank 3, and is also the water inlet of the water tank 3; the inner tank connection port 5 is an integrated structure with the water tank 3, mainly used to realize the interconnection between the water tank 3 and the inner tank 40; the cold water outlet 6 is the connection port between the water tank 3 and the heat exchanger 7, mainly used for the cold water in the heat exchanger 7 to enter the water tank 3.

[0132] The water supply path 8 is an inlet connection pipe integrated into the water tank 3, used to connect the water tank inlet 4 and the water distribution structure 25; the third flow path 313 is a hot water connection pipe integrated into the water tank 3, used to connect the heat exchanger 7 and the first hot water pipe 31; the first flow path 311 is integrated into the water tank 3, used to connect the heat exchanger 7 and the second cold water pipe 27; the one-way valve 11 mainly functions to achieve one-way flow between the water and air paths, ensuring that water can only enter the water softener 20 through the inlet flow path 12 and the first pipe 15, and cannot enter the inlet flow path 12 through the first pipe 15 from the water softener 20; the inlet flow path 12 is the connection pipe between the one-way valve 11 and the flow meter 14, integrated into the water tank 3. The drainage and anti-siphon structure 13 is a drainage and anti-siphon structure. Its upper pipe extends to the top of the water tank 3 and connects with the anti-siphon device 43. It is integrated into the water tank 3 and has internal pipes that connect to the drainage pipe 17 to achieve drainage. The flow meter 14 is mainly used to calculate the inlet water flow rate and can work with the inlet valve 19 to control the amount of water entering the dishwasher. It is integrated into the water tank 3. The first pipe 15 is a connecting pipe, mainly used to connect the inlet water flow path 12 and the water softener 20, and the flow meter 14 and the water softener 20. The second pipe 16 connects the water distribution structure 25 and the water replenishment flow path 8 to realize the water intake function of the water tank 3. The drainage pipe 17 is mainly used to drain the water cup 36 into the domestic sewage pipe. The inlet pipe 18 It is mainly used to connect the tap water inlet to the dishwasher; the inlet valve 19 is mainly used to control the opening and closing of the inlet pipe 18, and it is located on the inlet pipe 18, or it can be integrated into the water softener 20; the water softener 20 is mainly used to soften the tap water entering the dishwasher, and it is also an integrated device, which can mainly integrate components such as the inlet valve 19, the water distribution structure 25, and the water pump 26; the first connection port 21 is the inlet of the water distribution structure 25, and is mainly used to connect the water softener 20 and the water distribution structure 25; the first cold water pipe 22 is used to connect the water tank 3 and the water pump 26; the third pipe 23 is used to connect the water tank 3, the first switch valve 24, the water softener 20 and the first connection port 21; the first switch valve 24 is used to control the pipe The opening and closing of the third pipe 23 can control the water discharge from the water tank 3. When the water tank 3 discharges water, the first switch valve 24 opens, and the first connection port 21 in the water distribution structure 25 is connected to the fourth pipe 28. The water flows from the water tank 3 through the first switch valve 24, the third pipe 23, the first connection port 21, the fourth pipe 28, and the inlet of the water cup 36 into the water cup 36. The water distribution structure 25 is mainly used to switch between the second water pipe 16 and the fourth water pipe 28. When the water tank 3 needs to be filled with water, it can connect the first connection port 21 to the second pipe 16. When the water cup 36 needs to be filled with water, it can connect the first connection port 21 to the fourth pipe 28. It can be integrated into the water softener 20 or arranged separately.Water pump 26 is used to transport water from water tank 3 to heat exchanger 7 through first cold water pipe 22, second cold water pipe 27, and first flow path 311, and return it to water tank 3 through cold water outlet 6, forming a cold water circulation. It can be integrated into water softener 20 to form a single structure, or it can be arranged independently. Second cold water pipe 27 connects water pump 26 and first flow path 311. Fourth pipe 28 connects second pipe 16 and inlet valve 19, and also connects third pipe 23 and inlet of water cup 36, allowing water to enter water cup 36. Inlet of water cup 36 connects to water cup 36 and serves as its inlet interface. Drain pump 30 transports water from water cup 36 to domestic sewage pipe through drainage anti-siphon structure 13 and drainage pipe 17. Drain pump 30 can also be used to directly transport water from water cup 36 to domestic sewage pipe.

[0133] The first hot water pipe 31 connects the second switch valve 32 and the third flow path 313 to deliver hot water. The second switch valve 32 controls the connection between the second switch valve 32 and the second hot water pipe 33. The second hot water pipe 33 connects the circulation pump 34 and the second switch valve 32. When the water distribution valve 35 is closed, opening the second switch valve 32 allows water to flow from the water cup 36, be pressurized by the circulation pump 34, and then enter the second hot water pipe 33, the second switch valve 32, the first hot water pipe 31, the third flow path 313, the heat exchanger 7, and the fourth flow path 313. 14. The fourth pipe 28 and water cup 36 form a hot water circulation loop; the circulation pump 34 is used to transport and heat the fluid; the water distribution valve 35 is used to switch the water path, which can control the water flow to enter the lower spray arm 37 / middle spray arm 38 / upper spray arm 39 separately, or it can be completely closed; the water cup 36 is mainly used to store / collect the water flow in the inner tank 40; the lower spray arm 37 is used to achieve spray washing of the lower spray arm 37; the middle spray arm 38 is used to achieve spray washing of the middle spray arm 38; the upper spray arm 39 is used to achieve spray washing of the upper spray arm 39; the inner tank 40 is used to form... The dishwasher includes a frame, enclosure, and support structure. The fifth pipe 41 connects the second channel 2 and the anti-siphon device 43, and is connected to the sixth pipe 42 via the anti-siphon device 43. This ultimately connects the water tank 3, the inner tank connection port 5, and the fifth pipe 41 to the outside space, allowing gas in the inner tank 40 to enter the atmosphere through the inner tank connection port 5, the second channel 2, the fifth pipe 41, the anti-siphon device 43, and the sixth pipe 42. Furthermore, the position where the fifth pipe 41 connects to the anti-siphon device 43 is higher than the position where the fifth pipe 41 connects to the second channel 2. The sixth pipe 42 is used to connect the anti-siphon device 43 to the outside space. The position where the sixth pipe 42 connects to the anti-siphon device 43 is higher than the position where the anti-siphon device 43 connects to the drainage anti-siphon structure 13. The anti-siphon device 43 is used to connect the sixth pipe 42, the fifth pipe 41, and the drainage anti-siphon structure 13. The structure of the anti-siphon device 43 is equipped with a one-way valve device, which can ensure that the fluid in the drainage anti-siphon structure 13 will not enter the fifth pipe 41 and the sixth pipe 42 through the anti-siphon device 43.

[0134] As shown in Figure 2, the second channel 2 is connected to the inner tank connection port 5, the second channel 2 is connected to the fifth pipe 41, and the second channel 2 is connected to the water tank 3; the water tank 3 and the inner tank 40 are fixedly connected by screws, clips, screws, and the structural inner tank connection port 5, so that the inner tank connection port 5 and the inner tank 40 are interconnected. The water tank 3 is connected to the water tank inlet 4, the water tank 3 is connected to the cold water outlet 6, the water tank 3 is connected to the first cold water pipe 22, and the water tank 3 is connected to the third pipe 23; the heat exchanger 7 is assembled with the water tank 3 by plugging and unplugging, forming an assembly relationship. The shell of the heat exchanger 7 can also be integrated with the water tank 3 through an integral molding process to form an integral structure. Its whole is arranged vertically, with its outer side flush with the outer side of the water tank 3. Its upper and lower position is between the inner tank connection port 5 and the bottom of the water tank 3, and it is arranged on the right side of the water tank 3; the water tank inlet 4 is not connected to the fifth pipe 41, and the water tank inlet 4 is located above the fifth pipe 41; the third pipe 23 is connected to the first connection port 21; water distribution. Structure 25 is attached to the water softener 20 via a screw fastener; the first switch valve 24 is attached to the water tank 3 via a screw fastener; the water pump 26 is attached to the water softener 20 via a screw fastener / screw fastener; the fourth pipe 28 is attached to the water cup 36 via a screw fastener; the second switch valve 32 is independently attached, or can be attached to the water softener 20 via a screw fastener; the second pipe 16 is not connected to the third pipe 23; the inlet pipe 18 is not connected to the drain pipe 17; the drain pipe 17 is not connected to the first hot water pipe 31; the first hot water pipe 31 is not connected to the fourth pipe 28 or the second cold water pipe 27; the fifth pipe 41 is located in the water tank 3 and does not disrupt the integrity of the water tank 3, allowing fluid to remain connected in the area above and below the fifth pipe 41; the sixth pipe 42, the anti-siphon device 43, and the drainage anti-siphon structure 13 form a structure that divides the water tank 3 into two parts, which are not connected; the anti-siphon device 43 is located on the water tank 3.

[0135] Its working process under ECO sequence is as follows: Process 1: Before the washing process starts, open the water inlet valve 19 and switch the water distribution structure 25 to connect the water softener 20 with the water distribution structure 25. Tap water enters the water softener 20 through the water inlet pipe 18, water inlet valve 19, flow meter 14, water inlet flow path 12, one-way valve 11, and first pipe 15 for softening treatment. Then, it enters the water tank 3 through the first connection port 21, water distribution structure 25, second pipe 16, water replenishment flow path 8, and water tank inlet 4. When the water volume reaches the set value (water volume range 2.9L-3.9L), close the water inlet valve 19, and the water tank 3 is filled with water. Process Two: When the main wash begins, water tank 3 is filled with water, the first switch valve 24 is opened, and the first connection port 21 in the water distribution structure 25 is connected to the fourth pipe 28. Water flows from water tank 3 through the first switch valve 24, the third pipe 23, the first connection port 21, the fourth pipe 28, and the inlet of water cup 36 into water cup 36. Water enters water cup 36 before the wash is complete, and then the first switch valve 24 is closed. 3-10 minutes before the main wash ends, the inlet valve 19 is opened, and the water distribution structure 25 is switched to allow soft water to enter. The device 20 is connected to the water distribution structure 25 to replenish water to the water tank 3. When the preset water volume is reached, the inlet valve 19 is closed. The second switch valve 32 and the water pump 26 are opened, and the water distribution valve 35 is adjusted to the closed state, allowing the water from the washing pump to flow through the water cup 36, the second hot water pipe 33, the second switch valve 32, the first hot water pipe 31, and the third flow path 313 into the heat exchanger 7. After that, it flows through the fourth flow path 314, the inner tank connection port 5, and the inner tank 40 back to the water cup 36 to complete the washing hot water circulation. When the water pump 26 is turned on, the water from the water tank 3 will flow through the first cold water pipe 22, the water pump 26, the second cold water pipe 27, and the first flow path 311 to the heat exchanger 7, and then return to the water tank 3 through the cold water outlet 6 to complete the cold water circulation of the water tank 3.The cold water circulation and hot water circulation exchange heat in heat exchanger 7, transferring heat from the hot water circulation to the cold water circulation, and finally storing the heat in water tank 3, thus completing the main wash sequence; Process 3: When rinsing begins, open the inlet valve 19, switch the water distribution structure 25 to connect the water softener 20 and the fourth pipe 28, and tap water enters the water softener 20 after passing through the inlet pipe 18, inlet valve 19, flow meter 14, inlet flow path 12, one-way valve 11, and first pipe 15 for softening treatment, and then enters the water cup 36 through the first connection port 21, water distribution structure 25, fourth pipe 28, and the inlet of water cup 36. After the water intake is complete, disconnect the power to the inlet valve 19 and water distribution structure 25 to start rinsing; Step 4: When the second rinse begins, the first switch valve 24 opens, and the water tank 3 begins to release water. The water flows through the third pipe 23, the first switch valve 24, the fourth pipe 28, and the inlet of the water cup 36 into the water cup 36. Water is introduced into the water cup 36 before the wash is complete. Then the first switch valve 24 is closed, and the second rinse begins until the wash is finished. When the drying begins, the first step is repeated. Through the above process, some of the heat from the dishwasher during the washing process is transferred to the rinsing stage, thus reusing the dishwasher's heat. At the same time, the water tank 3 absorbs heat from the environment during the water storage stage at the beginning of the drying process, raising its internal water temperature to the ambient temperature. Therefore, it can reduce some of the heat energy consumed in the subsequent heating process, thus achieving energy saving.

[0136] During the operation of the dishwasher, when it drains water, the water flow is driven by the drain pump 30 and enters the sewage pipe through the drain anti-siphon structure 13 and the drain pipe 17. At this time, the one-way connection between the sixth pipe 42 and the anti-siphon device 43 can ensure the normal operation of the above process. When the water in the drain pipe 17 flows backward into the anti-siphon structure 13, the sixth pipe 42 comes into play, preventing the water in the drain pipe 17 from flowing backward into the anti-siphon structure 13. When the dishwasher is washing at high temperature, the inner tub 40 is connected to the outside space through the inner tub connection port 5, the second channel 2, the fifth pipe 41, the anti-siphon device 43, and the sixth pipe 42, which allows the pressure generated in the inner tub 40 due to high temperature to be released. Otherwise, the inner door of the dishwasher would be pushed open during high-temperature washing. In addition, the position where the fifth pipe 41 connects to the anti-siphon device 43 is higher than the position where the fifth pipe 41 connects to the second channel 2, which ensures that when there is too much water in the water tank 3, it can enter the inner tub 40 through the second channel 2 and the inner tub connection port 5, instead of entering the anti-siphon device 43 through the second channel 2 and the fifth pipe 41.

[0137] By testing a dishwasher with the above-mentioned heat exchange system and a conventional waste heat recovery dishwasher under the same operating conditions, it can be found that the heat exchange system of this application requires a shorter time to achieve the same temperature rise when the flow rate of the water pump 26 is increased.

[0138] This application discloses a heat exchange system for energy saving in dishwashers, which has a more compact overall structure, a higher degree of integration, requires fewer connecting pipes, and thus shortens the tooling time. Furthermore, the heat exchanger 7 used in this dishwasher heat exchange system is extremely small, only 1 / 6 the size of a conventional heat exchanger 7, allowing for easier and more flexible placement within the dishwasher's water tank 3 or base.

[0139] The present application discloses a heat exchange system for energy saving in dishwashers, which can prevent backflow in the dishwasher drain pipe 17 and ensure that the dishwasher door will not open due to excessive pressure during high-temperature washing.

[0140] In this application, a similar heat exchange system design can be achieved by using a higher flow rate or a heat exchanger with a larger equivalent diameter. A similar heat exchange system design can also be achieved by using other processing methods to create the same type of microscale heat exchange structure. Using larger or more water tanks 3 may also achieve similar energy-saving effects.

[0141] Referring to Figures 3 and 6, the water tank assembly 100 according to an embodiment of this application, used in a dishwasher, includes: a water tank 10 and a heat exchanger 7. The water tank 10 includes a housing 110, which has a mounting groove 101. The inner wall of the mounting groove 101 is provided with a water inlet port 120 and a water outlet port 130. The heat exchanger 7 is disposed in the mounting groove 101 and includes a housing 71, a water inlet end 72, and a water outlet end 73. The water inlet end 72 and the water outlet end 73 are located at opposite ends of the housing 71. The water inlet end 72 communicates with the water inlet port 120, and the water outlet end 73 communicates with the water outlet port 130. In other words, by integrating the water tank 10 and the heat exchanger 7 together to form the water tank assembly 100, heat exchange can be performed on the water in the water tank 10, thereby improving the energy recovery effect. Specifically, the water tank 10 has a pre-drilled mounting groove 101 suitable for installing the heat exchanger 7. When the heat exchanger 7 is installed in the mounting groove 101, the inlet end 72 of the heat exchanger 7 can be aligned with the inlet port 120 in the mounting groove 101, and the outlet end 73 can be aligned with the outlet port 130 in the mounting groove 101. Thus, water in the water tank 10 can enter the heat exchanger 7 for heat exchange and discharge. In application, installing the heat exchanger 7 on the water tank 10 reduces the manufacturing difficulty of the water tank assembly 100 and facilitates sealing testing during the manufacturing process of the heat exchanger 7, improving its quality. When the heat exchanger 7 needs maintenance, it can be directly removed from the water tank 10, facilitating repair and maintenance and reducing operating costs.

[0142] According to the embodiments of this application, the water tank assembly 100 can reduce the manufacturing cost of the water tank assembly 100 by installing the heat exchanger 7 on the water tank 10, and is also easy to repair and maintain.

[0143] The heat exchanger 7 and the water tank 10 are separate structures, so that the water tank 10 and the heat exchanger 7 can be manufactured separately. The heat exchanger 7 is detachably connected to the water tank 10, which is convenient for maintenance.

[0144] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, in some embodiments of this application, the water tank 10 extends vertically, and the heat exchanger 7 extends in the same direction as the water tank 10. The heat exchanger 7 is vertically disposed in the mounting groove 101, which can improve the compactness of the water tank assembly 100. Generally, the water tank 10 has a large volume, while the heat exchanger 7 has a small volume. The heat exchanger 7 extends in the same direction as the water tank 10, and the heat exchanger 7 is installed on the water tank 10 along the extension direction of the water tank 10. In this way, the overall structure changes little after the heat exchanger 7 is installed on the water tank 10, which is beneficial for space arrangement.

[0145] It should be noted that the vertical direction can be up and down. Referring to Figure 3, the heat exchanger 7 extends in the vertical or up and down direction. On the one hand, this can facilitate the adaptation to the structure of the water tank 10 and improve the overall structural compactness of the water tank assembly 100. On the other hand, it can also improve the heat exchange effect of the heat exchanger 7. During the heat exchange process, the vertically arranged heat exchanger 7 allows the heat exchange medium to fill the heat exchanger 7 by gravity, and the vertical extension of the heat exchanger 7 can ensure that the heat exchange medium is in full contact with the heat exchanger 7, thereby improving the heat exchange effect.

[0146] According to the water tank assembly 100 of this application embodiment, the water tank 10 extends vertically, and the heat exchanger 7 extends vertically and is mounted vertically on the water tank 10. The inlet end 72 and outlet end 73 of the heat exchanger 7 are located at opposite ends of the housing 71 along its length. Thus, when the heat exchanger 7 is mounted vertically in the mounting groove 101, the inlet end 72 and outlet end 73 can directly mate with the inlet port 120 and outlet port 130, facilitating quick installation and disassembly. Specifically, in the vertical direction, there is a gap between the heat exchanger 7 and the inner wall of the mounting groove 101, and the heat exchanger 7 is movably disposed in the mounting groove 101 along the vertical direction or the length direction of the housing 71. In other words, the gap between the heat exchanger 7 and the mounting groove 101 can provide installation space for the heat exchanger 7. During assembly, the heat exchanger 7 can be placed in the mounting groove 101 and its position can be adjusted vertically to adjust the assembly between the inlet end 72 and the inlet port 120 or the outlet end 73 and the outlet port 130, thereby realizing the connection between the inlet end 72 and the inlet port 120 and the outlet end 73 and the outlet port 130, thus realizing the assembly of the heat exchanger 7.

[0147] Furthermore, to improve the stability of the heat exchanger 7 after assembly, referring to Figure 9, in some embodiments of this application, the water tank assembly 100 further includes a fixing block 50. The fixing block 50 is disposed in the gap between the heat exchanger 7 and the inner wall of the mounting groove 101, and is sleeved on the outer periphery of the inlet end 72 or the outlet end 73. The fixing block 50 can fix the inlet end 72 and the outlet end 73 after assembly, thereby improving the connection stability and facilitating the improvement of the operational stability of the water tank assembly 100. In other words, the position of the heat exchanger 7 can be fixed by the fixing block 50 after assembly.

[0148] Of course, it is also possible that the fixing block 50 can fill the gap between the heat exchanger 7 and the inner wall of the mounting groove 101, thereby improving the overall structural stability of the water tank assembly 100 after the heat exchanger 7 is assembled.

[0149] More specifically, in some embodiments of this application, referring to FIG6, the water inlet end 72 is located at the second end of the housing 71 in the vertical direction, and the water outlet end 73 is located at the first end of the housing 71 in the vertical direction. The distance from the water inlet end 72 to the first end of the housing 71 is L2, and the distance from the water inlet port 120 to the water outlet port 130 is L1, wherein L2 is less than L1. Therefore, the heat exchanger 7 can be easily installed in the mounting groove 101, thereby facilitating assembly. Specifically, during assembly, the water outlet end 73 can be first inserted into the mounting groove 101 and engaged with the water outlet port 130 in the mounting groove 101, and then the housing 71 and the water inlet port 120 can be inserted into the mounting groove 101. Since L2 is less than L1, the heat exchanger 7 can enter the mounting groove 101.

[0150] Furthermore, the distance from the inlet end 72 to the outlet end 73 can be L3, where L3 is not less than L1. In other words, the overall length of the heat exchanger 7 is not greater than the length of the mounting groove 101 in the vertical direction. This can improve the structural compactness of the heat exchanger 7 after installation, reduce the gap between the heat exchanger 7 shell 71 and the inner wall of the mounting groove 101, and make it less likely for the heat exchanger 7 to move or shake in the mounting groove 101, which is beneficial to improving the structural stability after assembly.

[0151] According to some embodiments of the present application, the heat exchanger 7 has an inlet end 72 located at the lower end of the shell 71 and an outlet end 73 located at the upper end of the shell 71. In use, the heat exchange medium enters from the lower end of the heat exchanger 7 and exits from the upper end.

[0152] More specifically, in some embodiments of this application, referring to Figures 6 and 9, the water inlet end 72 extends into the water inlet port 120 and the water outlet end 73 extends into the water outlet port 130, which can improve the tightness of the fit between the heat exchanger 7 and the water tank 10 and the structural stability after connection, and facilitate assembly.

[0153] Furthermore, in some embodiments of this application, the water tank assembly 100 also includes a sealing ring, which is sleeved on the outer periphery of the water inlet end 72. The sealing ring seals between the water inlet end 72 and the water inlet port 120, improving the stability of the connection between the water inlet end 72 and the water inlet port 120, and also improving the sealing effect at the water inlet to prevent leakage.

[0154] A sealing ring can be placed on the outer periphery of the water outlet end 73. The sealing ring seals between the water outlet end 73 and the water outlet port 130, improving the stability of the connection between the water outlet end 73 and the water outlet port 130, and also improving the sealing effect at the water outlet to prevent leakage.

[0155] Of course, it is also possible to fit the sealing rings on the outer periphery of the water inlet end 72 and the water outlet end 73 respectively, which can improve the stability and sealing of the connection between the heat exchanger 7 and the water tank 10.

[0156] Figures 6 to 9 illustrate the assembly process of heat exchanger 7 and water tank 10 from disassembled state to completed installation. Specifically, during assembly, heat exchanger 7 can be tilted appropriately. First, the outlet end 73 is inserted into the outlet port 130. Then, the shell 71 and the inlet end 72 are inserted into the mounting groove 101. Referring to Figure 7, the outlet end 73 is fully inserted into the outlet port 130, so that the upper end of the shell 71 contacts the top wall of the mounting groove 101. At this time, the gap 'a' between the lower end of the heat exchanger shell 71 and the bottom wall of the mounting groove 101 increases, and the inlet end 72 can enter the receiving groove. At this time, heat exchanger 7 is completely inserted into the mounting groove 101. Referring to Figure 8, the heat exchanger 7 is moved downwards so that the inlet end 72 can extend into the inlet port 120 of the bottom wall of the mounting groove 101. There is a gap b between the upper end of the shell 71 and the inner wall of the mounting groove 101. A part of the outlet end 73 can still extend into the outlet port 130. At this time, the inlet end 72 and the outlet end 73 of the heat exchanger 7 are connected to the inlet port 120 and the outlet port 130 of the water tank 10. Referring to Figure 9, the fixing block 50 is fitted onto the outer periphery of the inlet end 72. The fixing block 50 is assembled in the gap between the upper end of the shell 71 and the inner wall of the mounting groove 101, which can prevent the heat exchanger 7 from moving in the vertical direction after assembly and improve the structural stability after assembly.

[0157] Specifically, referring to Figure 6, in some embodiments of this application, the water tank 10 includes a first inlet pipe 121 and a second inlet pipe 122. One end of the first inlet pipe 121 and the second inlet pipe 122 forms an inlet port 120. The inlet end 72 includes a first inlet pipe 223 and a second inlet pipe 224. The first inlet pipe 121 is connected to the first inlet pipe 223, and the first inlet pipe 223 extends into the first inlet pipe 121. A first sealing ring 61 is provided between the first inlet pipe 121 and the first inlet pipe 223 to improve the tightness of the connection and the sealing effect. The second inlet pipe 122 is connected to the second inlet pipe 224, and the second inlet pipe 224 extends into the second inlet pipe 122. A second sealing ring 62 is provided between the second inlet pipe 224 and the second inlet pipe 122. The first inlet pipe 121 and the second inlet pipe 122 are arranged side by side, and the first inlet pipe 223 and the second inlet pipe 224 are arranged side by side, which facilitates assembly, that is, two inlet pipes can be connected simultaneously.

[0158] In some embodiments of this application, the water tank 10 includes a first outlet pipe 131 and a second outlet pipe 132. One end of each outlet pipe 131 and 132 forms an outlet port 130. The outlet end 73 includes a first outflow pipe 233 and a second outflow pipe 234. The first outlet pipe 131 is connected to the first outflow pipe 233, and the first outflow pipe 233 extends into the first outlet pipe 131. A third sealing ring 63 is provided between the first outlet pipe 131 and the first outflow pipe 233. The second outlet pipe 132 is connected to the second outflow pipe 234, and the second outflow pipe 234 extends into the second outlet pipe 132. A fourth sealing ring 64 is provided between the second outflow pipe 234 and the second outlet pipe 132. The first outlet pipe 131 and the second outlet pipe 132 are arranged side-by-side, and the first outflow pipe 233 and the second outflow pipe 234 are also arranged side-by-side, which facilitates assembly, allowing simultaneous connection of two inlet pipes.

[0159] Specifically, the outer periphery of the inlet and outlet pipes of the heat exchanger 7 may be provided with grooves, a part of the seal is located in the groove and a part protrudes from the groove. After the inlet and outlet pipes extend into the inlet port 120 and the outlet port 130, the seals deform so that the inlet and outlet pipes are interference-fitted with the water tank 10.

[0160] In some embodiments of this application, the heat exchanger 7 further includes a heat exchange section 75 disposed within the housing 71. The heat exchange section 75 constructs a first flow channel and a second flow channel within the housing 71. The first flow channel connects the first inlet pipe 223 and the first outlet pipe 233, and the second flow channel connects the second inlet pipe 224 and the second outlet pipe 234. The first and second flow channels are arranged alternately, thereby constructing two heat exchange channels within the heat exchanger 7, which can exchange heat with each other. Specifically, the first medium enters the first inlet pipe 223 from the first inlet pipe 121, undergoes heat exchange in the first flow channel, and is discharged from the first outlet pipe 131 and the first outlet pipe 233; the second medium enters the second inlet pipe 224 from the second inlet pipe 122, undergoes heat exchange in the second flow channel, and is discharged from the second outlet pipe 132 and the second outlet pipe 234.

[0161] The dishwasher according to the embodiments of this application includes the aforementioned water tank assembly 100. By applying the aforementioned water tank assembly 100 to the dishwasher, it is easier to repair and maintain the dishwasher and improve its durability.

[0162] Specifically, the dishwasher also includes a water cup that is connected to the water tank 10, allowing water to be supplied to the cup for cleaning the dishes. The second inlet pipe 224 and the second outlet pipe 234 are connected to the water in the cup, allowing the high-temperature washing medium in the cup to circulate in the second channel of the heat exchange section 75 through the second inlet pipe 224 and the second outlet pipe 234. The first inlet pipe 223 and the first outlet pipe 233 are connected to the water in the water tank 10, allowing the low-temperature washing medium in the water tank 10 to circulate in the first channel of the heat exchange section 75. This achieves heat exchange between the high-temperature washing medium in the cup and the low-temperature washing medium in the water tank 10, thus recovering the waste heat from the high-temperature washing medium in the cup.

[0163] In this system, the washing medium in the water cup of the dishwasher is at a higher temperature, while the washing medium in the water tank 10 is at a lower temperature. Therefore, through the aforementioned heat exchange cycle, the temperature of the washing medium in the water tank 10 is increased, thus achieving waste heat recovery from the washing medium inside the dishwasher, improving the dishwasher's heat utilization rate, and reducing its energy consumption. Specifically, the washing medium in the water cup is heated during the main wash cycle of the dishwasher, hence its higher temperature.

[0164] Understandably, a dishwasher includes at least a main wash and a rinse cycle. During the main wash, the detergent is delivered to the dishwasher's water cup and heated to improve the cleaning effect on the kitchenware inside. During the rinse, clean water is used to wash the kitchenware to further enhance the cleanliness. The water used in the rinse cycle is heated by exchanging heat with the hot water from the main wash, thus improving the rinsing effect and shortening the rinse time.

[0165] The working process is as follows: After the waste heat recovery process begins, high-temperature water enters the second inlet pipe 224 through the external connector, connecting the high-temperature water to the heat exchange section 75 of the shell 71. It then flows through the second flow channel and exits through the second outlet pipe 234, entering the high-temperature side piping system. Simultaneously, low-temperature water enters the first inlet pipe 223 through the external connector, connecting the low-temperature water to the first flow channel and exiting through the first outlet pipe 233, entering the low-temperature side piping system. In some embodiments, low-temperature water may flow in the second flow channel, while high-temperature water flows in the first flow channel. Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting this application. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions, and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. A water tank assembly for a dishwasher, wherein, The water tank assembly includes: A water tank, wherein the water tank is provided with a water storage space, multiple flow paths and multiple water interface, and at least a portion of the multiple water interface is connected to the multiple flow paths respectively; A heat exchanger is disposed in the water tank. The heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel. The first heat exchange channel is connected to the water storage space. The second heat exchange channel is in heat exchange cooperation with the first heat exchange channel. The plurality of flow paths includes a heat exchange flow path connected to the first heat exchange channel and / or the second heat exchange channel.

2. The water tank assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The heat exchange flow path includes a first flow path, and the plurality of water interface includes a first interface and a second interface. One end of the first heat exchange channel is connected to the water storage space, one end of the first flow path is connected to the other end of the first heat exchange channel, the other end of the first flow path is connected to the first interface, and the second interface is connected to the water storage space.

3. The water tank assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The heat exchange flow path further includes a third flow path and a fourth flow path, and the plurality of water interface includes a third interface and a fourth interface. One end of the third flow path is connected to one end of the second heat exchange channel and the other end is connected to the third interface. One end of the fourth flow path is connected to the other end of the second heat exchange channel and the other end is connected to the fourth interface.

4. The water tank assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The lower end of the second heat exchange channel is connected to the third flow path, and the upper end of the second heat exchange channel is connected to the fourth flow path; and / or, the plurality of flow paths further include a fifth flow path and a sixth flow path, the lower end of the fifth flow path is connected to the second heat exchange channel, and the upper end extends to the upper part of the water tank and connects to the external space of the water tank, the upper end of the sixth flow path is connected to the upper end of the fifth flow path, and the lower end is connected to the fourth flow path.

5. The water tank assembly according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The plurality of flow paths also includes an inlet flow path, and the plurality of water path interfaces include a fifth interface and a sixth interface, with the two ends of the inlet flow path connected to the fifth interface and the sixth interface, respectively.

6. The water tank assembly according to claim 5, wherein, The water inlet flow path and the heat exchange flow path are respectively located on the left and right sides of the water storage space; and / or, at least a portion of the water inlet flow path is inclined toward the heat exchange flow path in a downward direction; and / or, at least a portion of the heat exchange flow path is inclined toward the water inlet flow path in a downward direction.

7. The water tank assembly according to claim 5 or 6, wherein, The plurality of flow paths also includes a water replenishment flow path, and the plurality of water interface also includes a seventh interface. One end of the water replenishment flow path is located at the upper end of the water storage space and is connected to the water storage space. The other end of the water replenishment flow path is connected to the seventh interface. The water replenishment flow path is located on the side of the water storage space near the water inlet flow path.

8. The water tank assembly according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein, The plurality of water interfaces also includes an eighth interface, which is connected to the lower end of the water storage space. The water tank assembly also includes a first switch valve, which is used to open and close the eighth interface.

9. The water tank assembly according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein, The plurality of water inlets are located at the lower end of the water tank and are arranged side by side along the left-right direction; and / or, the heat exchanger is located on the side of the water storage space; and / or, the heat exchanger is vertically arranged on the water tank along the length direction.

10. The water tank assembly according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein, The heat exchanger includes a heat exchange space, in which a plurality of heat exchange tubes are arranged at intervals. A first heat exchange channel is formed within the heat exchange tubes, and a second heat exchange channel is formed between the plurality of heat exchange tubes.

11. The water tank assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The water tank includes a tank body with an installation groove. The inner wall of the installation groove is provided with an inlet port and an outlet port. The heat exchanger is disposed in the installation groove. The heat exchanger includes a shell, an inlet end and an outlet end. The inlet end and the outlet end are disposed at opposite ends of the shell. The inlet end is connected to the inlet port and the outlet end is connected to the outlet port.

12. The water tank assembly according to claim 11, wherein, The water tank extends vertically, and the heat exchanger extends in the same direction as the water tank. The heat exchanger is located in the mounting groove along the vertical direction.

13. The water tank assembly according to claim 12, wherein, In the vertical direction, there is a gap between the housing and the inner wall of the mounting groove, and the heat exchanger is movably disposed in the mounting groove along the vertical direction.

14. The water tank assembly according to claim 13, wherein, It also includes a fixing block, which is located in the gap between the heat exchanger and the inner wall of the mounting groove, and is sleeved on the outer periphery of the water inlet end or the water outlet end.

15. The water tank assembly according to any one of claims 12-14, wherein, The water inlet end is located at the second end of the housing along the vertical direction, and the water outlet end is located at the first end of the housing along the vertical direction. The distance from the water inlet end to the first end of the housing is L2, and the distance from the water inlet port to the water outlet port is L1, wherein L2 is less than L1.

16. The water tank assembly according to any one of claims 11-15, wherein, The inlet end extends into the inlet port, and the outlet end extends into the outlet port.

17. The water tank assembly according to any one of claims 11-16, wherein, It also includes a sealing ring, which is sleeved on the outer periphery of the water inlet end and seals between the water inlet end and the water inlet port, and / or the sealing ring is sleeved on the outer periphery of the water outlet end and seals between the water outlet end and the water outlet port.

18. The water tank assembly according to any one of claims 11-17, wherein, The water tank includes a first inlet pipe and a second inlet pipe, with one end of each pipe forming an inlet port. The inlet port includes a first inlet pipe and a second inlet pipe, with the first inlet pipe connected to the first inlet pipe and the second inlet pipe connected to the second inlet pipe; and / or The housing includes a first water outlet pipe and a second water outlet pipe. One end of the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe forms the water outlet port. The water outlet end includes a first outflow pipe and a second outflow pipe. The first water outlet pipe is connected to the first outflow pipe, and the second water outlet pipe is connected to the second outflow pipe.

19. The water tank assembly according to claim 18, wherein, The first inlet pipe and the second inlet pipe are arranged side by side; the first inlet pipe and the second inlet pipe are arranged side by side; and / or the first outlet pipe and the second outlet pipe are arranged side by side; the first outlet pipe and the second outlet pipe are arranged side by side.

20. The water tank assembly according to claim 18 or 19, wherein, The first inlet pipe extends into the first water inlet pipe, and a first sealing ring is provided between the first water inlet pipe and the first inlet pipe; and / or The second inlet pipe extends into the second water inlet pipe, and a second sealing ring is provided between the second inlet pipe and the second water inlet pipe; and / or The first outflow pipe extends into the first outlet pipe, and a third sealing ring is provided between the first outlet pipe and the first outflow pipe; and / or The second outflow pipe extends into the second water outlet pipe, and a fourth sealing ring is provided between the second outflow pipe and the second water outlet pipe.

21. A dishwasher, wherein, The water tank assembly includes any one of claims 1-20.

22. The dishwasher according to claim 21, wherein, It also includes a water cup, and the second heat exchange channel is connected to the water cup.

23. The dishwasher according to claim 22, wherein, The dishwasher also includes a water softener connected to the water tank assembly. The plurality of flow paths include an inlet flow path, the inlet of which is connected to a water source and the outlet of which is connected to the water softener.

24. The dishwasher according to claim 23, wherein, The water softener has multiple channels and multiple water tank interfaces. The multiple water tank interfaces are respectively connected to the multiple channels, and the multiple water tank interfaces are respectively connected to the multiple water circuit interfaces.

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