Home appliance

Abstract

This home appliance comprises: a main body; an accommodation space to be formed inside the main body; an inlet duct through which air discharged from the accommodation space is to flow; a thermoelectric device comprising a cooling portion provided to cool down the air flowing in through the inlet duct, and a heating portion which heats the air having passed through the cooling portion; and a drain portion which forms a storage for collecting condensed water generated from the cooling portion and is disposed under the cooling portion, wherein the drain portion forms a cooling flow path for cooling down the air flowing in through the inlet duct along with the cooling portion, and comprises a discharge hole through which the condensed water collected in the storage is discharged and ribs which prevent the air flowing through the cooling flow path from flowing through the storage.

Description

home appliances

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a home appliance having an improved structure.

[0002] An appliance may include a body with an internal storage space. Furthermore, the appliance may have a drying function for drying the interior of the storage space. For example, appliances with such a drying function may include a dishwasher designed to wash and dry dishes, and a clothes dryer designed to dry clothes.

[0003] Specifically, the dishwasher may include a tub forming a washing room, a sump collecting wash water in the tub, a pump pumping wash water in the sump, and a spray device spraying the pumped wash water into the tub.

[0004] A dishwasher can perform a washing cycle to wash dishes using water and detergent, a rinsing cycle to rinse dishes, and a drying cycle to remove any remaining moisture from the dishes.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an appliance including a thermoelectric device for a drying process.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an electrical appliance having an improved structure to increase the drying efficiency of a thermoelectric device.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an appliance including a drain portion formed with ribs that guide air to flow to a cooling portion of a thermoelectric device.

[0008] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0009] According to one embodiment, a home appliance includes a thermoelectric device including a main body, an accommodation space formed inside the main body, an inlet duct for air discharged from the accommodation space to flow, a cooling unit provided to cool air introduced through the inlet duct, and a heating unit provided to heat air passing through the cooling unit, and a storage unit formed to collect condensate generated in the cooling unit, the drain unit being disposed below the cooling unit, the drain unit forming a cooling channel for cooling air introduced through the inlet duct together with the cooling unit, a discharge hole through which condensate collected in the storage unit is discharged, and a rib formed to prevent air flowing through the cooling channel from flowing through the storage unit.

[0010] According to one embodiment, a home appliance includes an inlet duct through which air is introduced, a connecting duct connected to the inlet duct and receiving air from the inlet duct, an exhaust duct connected to the connecting duct and discharging air in the connecting duct, a cooling unit configured to cool air introduced through the inlet duct, and a heating unit configured to heat air passing through the cooling unit, and includes a thermoelectric device disposed inside the connecting duct, wherein the connecting duct is disposed below the thermoelectric device and may include a drain portion and a plurality of ribs protruding from a lower surface of the drain portion.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a tub and its surroundings according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a tub and its surroundings according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a water tank, a connecting duct, and a peripheral configuration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the water tank, connecting duct, and surrounding configuration shown in Figure 4.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a side view illustrating a water tank, a connecting duct, and a peripheral configuration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and illustrating the internal structure of the water tank.

[0019] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view illustrating the internal configuration of a connecting duct according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Fig. 10 is a side view of a drain portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Fig. 11 is a plan view of a drain portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 12 is a result of a comparative test of the flow rate of air flowing inside a connecting duct according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Fig. 13 is a side view of a drain portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Fig. 14 is an exploded view of a drain portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig. 15 is a side view showing the combined configuration of the drain section shown in Fig. 14.

[0026] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0027] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0028] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0029] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0030] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0031] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0032] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0033] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0034] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0035] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0036] The terms "part," "module," and "member" may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, multiple "parts," "modules," or "members" may be implemented as a single component, or a single "part," "module," or "member" may include multiple components.

[0037] Terms such as "~bu", "~gi", "~block", "~absence", and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the terms may refer to at least one piece of hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) / ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one piece of software stored in memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0038] The symbols attached to each step are used to identify each step and do not indicate the order of the steps, and the steps may be performed in a different order than stated unless the context clearly indicates a specific order.

[0039] Meanwhile, the terms "front-back direction", "front", "rear", "upper", "lower", etc. used in the following description are defined based on the drawing, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, "upper-lower direction" means the Z direction based on the drawing, and "upper" and "lower" may mean upward (+Z direction) and downward (-Z direction) in the Z direction based on the drawing, respectively. "Forward-back direction" means the X direction based on the drawing, and "front" and "rear" may mean forward (+X direction) and backward (-X direction) in the X direction based on the drawing, respectively.

[0040] The present disclosure relates to a home appliance (1). The home appliance (1) according to the present disclosure may include a dishwasher, a clothes dryer, and the like. An example of a dishwasher (1a) will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 15 . However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, any home appliance having a storage space formed inside a main body and having a function of drying the storage space may be included in the home appliance (1) according to the present disclosure.

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the dishwasher (1a) may include a main body (10). The main body (10) may form the exterior of the dishwasher (1a).

[0044] The dishwasher (1a) may include a tub (12) provided inside the main body (10). The tub (12) may be provided in a roughly box shape.

[0045] One side of the tub (12) may be open. In other words, the tub (12) may have an opening (12a). The opening (12a) may be formed at the front of the tub (12).

[0046] The dishwasher (1a) may include a receiving space (C) formed by a tub (12). The receiving space (C) may be defined as an inner space of the tub (12). That is, the receiving space (C) may be formed on the inner side of the main body (10).

[0047] The receiving space (C) of the dishwasher (1a) may be referred to as a washing room (C). The washing room (C) may refer to a space where dishes placed in a storage container are washed and dried.

[0048] The dishwasher (1a) may include a door (11) provided to open and close the opening (12a) of the tub (12). The door (11) may be installed on the main body (10) to open and close the opening (12a) of the tub (12). The door (11) may be detachably mounted on the main body (10). The door (11) may be rotatably mounted on the main body (10). For example, the door (11) may be rotatably coupled to the main body (10) via a hinge (15).

[0049] For example, the upper part of the door (11) may be provided to be rotatable relative to the tub (12) with the lower part of the door (11) as the center. The lower part of the door (11) may be rotatably fixed to the main body (10). When the door (11) opens the opening (12a) of the tub (12), it may be opened from the upper side of the opening (12a). For example, during the drying process, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the door (11) may be provided to open the opening (12a) of the tub (12) to a predetermined range.

[0050] The dishwasher (1a) may include a storage container provided inside the tub (12) to store dishes.

[0051] The storage container may include a plurality of baskets (51, 52, 53). The plurality of baskets (51, 52, 53) may be configured to store various dishes. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the storage container may include a single basket.

[0052] The storage container may include an intermediate basket (52) positioned in the middle in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher (1a). The intermediate basket (52) may be introduced into or withdrawn from the washing room (C) through the opening (12a) of the tub (12). The intermediate basket (52) may be provided to be supported by an intermediate guide rack (13b). For example, the intermediate basket (52) may be provided to be slidably moved by the intermediate guide rack (13b). For example, the intermediate guide rack (13b) may be installed on the inner surface of the tub (12).

[0053] The storage container may include a lower basket (51) positioned at the bottom in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher (1a). The lower basket (51) may be introduced into or withdrawn from the washing room (C) through the opening (12a) of the tub (12). The lower basket (51) may be provided to be supported by a lower guide rack (13a). For example, the lower basket (51) may be provided to be slidably moved by the lower guide rack (13a). For example, the lower guide rack (13a) may be installed on the inner surface of the tub (12).

[0054] A plurality of baskets (51, 52) can store relatively large dishes. However, the types of dishes stored in the plurality of baskets (51, 52) are not limited to relatively large dishes. That is, the plurality of baskets (51, 52) can store not only relatively large dishes but also relatively small dishes.

[0055] The storage container may include an upper basket (53) positioned at the upper portion in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher (1a). The upper basket (53) is formed in the form of a rack assembly and can store relatively small-volume dishes. For example, cooking tools or cutlery such as ladles, knives, and spatulas can be stored in the upper basket (53). Small cups such as espresso cups can be stored in the upper basket (53). However, the types of dishes stored in the upper basket (53) are not limited to the above examples.

[0056] The upper basket (53) can be introduced into or withdrawn from the washing room (C) through the opening (12a) of the tub (12). The upper basket (53) can be provided to be supported by an upper guide rack (13c). For example, the upper basket (53) can be provided to be slidably moved by the upper guide rack (13c). For example, the upper guide rack (13c) can be installed on the inner surface of the tub (12).

[0057] The dishwasher (1a) may include a spray device (40) configured to spray washing water. The spray device (40) may spray washing water into a washing chamber (C). The spray device (40) may spray washing water toward dishes stored in a storage container. The spray device (40) may receive washing water from a sump assembly (70) to be described later.

[0058] The injection device (40) may include at least one injection unit. For example, the injection device (40) may include a plurality of injection units (41, 42, 43).

[0059] For example, the spray device (40) may include a first spray unit (41) disposed at the bottom of the lower basket (51) in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher (1a). The spray device (40) may include a second spray unit (42) disposed at the bottom of the middle basket (52) in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher (1a). The spray device (40) may include a third spray unit (43) disposed at the top of the upper basket (53) in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher (1a). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the spray device (40) may include two or fewer or four or more spray units.

[0060] Each of the plurality of spray units (41, 42, 43) may be arranged to spray the washing water while rotating. That is, each of the first spray unit (41), the second spray unit (42), and the third spray unit (43) may be arranged to spray the washing water while rotating. The plurality of spray units (41, 42, 43) may be referred to as a plurality of spray rotors (41, 42, 43). The first spray unit (41), the second spray unit (42), and the third spray unit (43) may be referred to as a first spray rotor (41), a second spray rotor (42), and a third spray rotor (43), respectively.

[0061] However, the spray device (40) may spray the washing water in a different manner from the above-described example. For example, the first spray unit (41), unlike the second spray unit (42) and the third spray unit (43), may be fixed to one side of the lower surface (12d) of the tub. At this time, the first spray unit (41) is arranged to spray the washing water in a substantially horizontal direction by means of a fixed nozzle, and the washing water sprayed in a substantially horizontal direction from the nozzle of the first spray unit (41) may have its direction changed by a switching assembly (not shown) disposed inside the washing chamber (C) and may move upward. The switching assembly may be installed on a rail (not shown) and may be arranged to be translationally movable along the rail. Meanwhile, although the first spray unit (41) has been described as an example, the second spray unit (42) and the third spray unit (43) may also be arranged to spray the washing water using a fixed nozzle, similar to the above-described example.

[0062] The dishwasher (1a) may include an auxiliary spray device (30). The auxiliary spray device (30) may be disposed on a lower side of the washing chamber (C) and spray washing water onto a portion of the washing chamber (C). The auxiliary spray device (30) is designed to spray water at a relatively high pressure compared to the spray device (40), thereby enabling intensive washing of heavily soiled dishes. The auxiliary spray device (30) may be arranged to spray washing water while rotating. The auxiliary spray device (30) may be referred to as an auxiliary spray unit (30). In addition, the auxiliary spray device (30) may be referred to as an auxiliary spray rotor (30).

[0063] The auxiliary injection device (30) may be provided as a component of the injection device (40). Hereinafter, the plurality of injection units may be a concept including at least two of the first injection unit (41), the second injection unit (42), the third injection unit (43), or the auxiliary injection unit (30). Hereinafter, the plurality of injection rotors may be a concept including at least two of the first injection rotor (41), the second injection rotor (42), the third injection rotor (43), or the auxiliary injection rotor (30).

[0064] The dishwasher (1a) may optionally be equipped with an auxiliary spray device (30). That is, the auxiliary spray device (30) may be omitted from the dishwasher (1a).

[0065] The dishwasher (1a) may include a sump assembly (70). The sump assembly (70) may be referred to as a sump (70).

[0066] The sump assembly (70) may be provided to accommodate washing water. The sump assembly (70) may collect washing water from the washing room (C). For example, to ensure smooth water collection in the sump assembly (70), the lower surface (12d) of the tub may be provided to slope downward toward the sump assembly (70). Washing water from the washing room (C) may flow along the slope of the lower surface (12d) of the tub and smoothly flow into the sump assembly (70).

[0067] The dishwasher (1a) may include a circulation pump (71) that pumps wash water stored in the sump assembly (70) to the spray device (40). The circulation pump (71) may be provided as a component of the sump assembly (70). The circulation pump (71) may be placed in the machine room (L).

[0068] The dishwasher (1a) may include a drain pump (72) for draining wash water and / or foreign substances (e.g., food waste, etc.) remaining in the sump assembly (70). The drain pump (72) may be provided as a component of the sump assembly (70). The drain pump (72) may be placed in the machine room (L).

[0069] The sump assembly (70) may be arranged to supply wash water to at least one of the plurality of spray units (41, 42, 43, 30). The sump assembly (70) may be arranged to selectively supply wash water to the plurality of spray units (41, 42, 43, 30).

[0070] The dishwasher (1a) may include a pipe (14). The pipe (14) may be arranged to guide wash water from a sump assembly (70) to a spray device (40). The pipe (14) may include a shape extending approximately in the height direction (Z direction).

[0071] The dishwasher (1a) may include a machine room (L), which is a space provided below the tub (12). The machine room (L) may be a place where a configuration for circulating wash water is arranged. The dishwasher (1a) may include a base frame (20) forming the machine room (L).

[0072] At least a portion of the sump assembly (70) may be placed in the machine room (L). For example, most of the sump assembly (70) may be placed in the machine room (L). That is, the area of ​​the sump assembly (70) located in the washing room (C) may be smaller than the area of ​​the sump assembly (70) located in the machine room (L). By reducing the area of ​​the sump assembly (70) occupying the washing room (C), the area of ​​the washing room (C) can be secured. Thereby, the capacity of the washing room (C) can be increased, and the dish storage capacity can be increased.

[0073] The dishwasher (1a) may include a filter (60). The filter (60) may be provided to filter foreign substances contained in wash water flowing into the sump assembly (70). Wash water filtered by the filter (60) may be delivered to the spray device (40) by the sump assembly (70). The filter (60) may be detachably mounted to the sump assembly (70). For example, the filter (60) may include at least one of a fine filter, a coarse filter, or a micro filter.

[0074] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a tub and its surroundings according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a tub and its surroundings according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a water tank, a connecting duct, and its surroundings according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the water tank, the connecting duct, and its surroundings illustrated in FIG. 4. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 7, the dishwasher (1a) may include a water tank (100). The water tank (100) may be provided to store water to be supplied to the washing room (C).

[0076] The water tank (100) may be placed on one side of the tub (12). Specifically, the water tank (100) may be placed between one side wall (12b) of the tub and one side wall (10a) of the main body.

[0077] The water tank (100) can be formed by combining a first tank case (101) and a second tank case (102). For example, the first tank case (101) and the second tank case (102) can be heat-fused. By combining the first tank case (101) and the second tank case (102), a storage space (110), an inlet duct (150), and an outlet duct (160), which will be described later, can be formed.

[0078] The dishwasher (1a) may include a duct (150, 160, 400). The duct (150, 160, 400) may be connected to a washing room (C). The duct (150, 160, 400) may be configured to allow air within the washing room (C) to be introduced or to discharge air to the washing room (C).

[0079] The ducts (150, 160, 400) may include an inlet duct (150) for air discharged from the washing room (C) to flow, an exhaust duct (160) for discharging air to the washing room (C), and a connecting duct (400) connecting the inlet duct (150) and the exhaust duct (160).

[0080] The inlet duct (150) and the discharge duct (160) may each be provided inside the water tank (100). That is, the inlet duct (150) and the discharge duct (160) may each be placed between one side wall (12b) of the tub and one side wall (10a) of the main body.

[0081] The water tank (100) may include a first air inlet (151) formed at one end of an inlet duct (150). The first air inlet (151) may connect the washing room (C) and the inlet duct (150). Air within the washing room (C) may be introduced into the inlet duct (150) through the first air inlet (151).

[0082] The dishwasher (1a) may include a first fan device (300) configured to form an air flow. The first fan device (300) may be positioned corresponding to the first air inlet (151). The first fan device (300) may form an air flow to introduce air within the washing room (C) into the duct (150, 160, 400) or to discharge air within the duct (150, 160, 400) into the washing room (C).

[0083] The water tank (100) may include a first air outlet (161) formed at one end of the discharge duct (160). The first air outlet (161) may connect the washing room (C) and the discharge duct (160). Air within the discharge duct (160) may be discharged to the washing room (C) through the first air outlet (161).

[0084] A connecting duct (400) may be provided at the lower side of the water tank (100). The connecting duct (400) may be placed in the machine room (L).

[0085] The connecting duct (400) can be connected to the water tank (100). Through this configuration, the connecting duct (400) can connect the inlet duct (150) and the discharge duct (160). A flow path can be formed inside the connecting duct (400) through which air drawn in from the inlet duct (150) flows toward the discharge duct (160).

[0086] The connecting duct (400) may include a duct body (410), a drain portion (420) coupled to one side of the duct body (410), and a cover (430) coupled to the other side of the duct body (410). For example, the drain portion (420) may be coupled to the lower side of the duct body (410), and the cover (430) may be coupled to the upper side of the duct body (410).

[0087] The dishwasher (1a) may include a thermoelectric device (500). The thermoelectric device (500) may be arranged to cool or heat the air within the duct (150, 160, 400).

[0088] The thermoelectric device (500) can be placed inside the connecting duct (400). That is, the thermoelectric device (500) can be provided inside the machine room (L). The thermoelectric device (500) can cool or heat the air inside the connecting duct (400).

[0089] The thermoelectric device (500) may include a thermoelectric element (510), a sealing member (520), a cooling unit (530), and a heating unit (540) to be described later. By arranging a connecting duct (400), which is a component of the ducts (150, 160, 400), in the machine room (L) and arranging the thermoelectric device (500) inside the connecting duct (400), both the assembly of the dishwasher (1a) and the efficiency of the thermoelectric device (500) can be improved.

[0090] The thermoelectric device (500) may include a thermoelectric element (510). The thermoelectric element (510) may be a semiconductor element that converts electrical energy into thermal energy using the thermoelectric effect. The thermoelectric element (510) may also be referred to as a thermoelectric semiconductor element, a Peltier element, or the like. The thermoelectric element (510) may have a thin hexahedral shape. A substrate, electrodes, and the like may be provided inside the thermoelectric element (510).

[0091] The thermoelectric element (510) can be mounted on the duct body (410). Specifically, the duct body (410) can be provided with an open thermoelectric element insertion portion (411), and the thermoelectric element (510) can be mounted on the duct body (410) by being inserted into the thermoelectric element insertion portion (411).

[0092] The thermoelectric element (510) may include a heat-absorbing surface (511) and a heat-generating surface (512). When current is applied to the thermoelectric element (510), heat absorption may occur on the heat-absorbing surface (511), and heat generation may occur on the heat-generating surface (512). The heat-absorbing surface (511) may be provided on one surface of the thermoelectric element (510), and the heat-generating surface (512) may be provided on the other surface of the thermoelectric element (510). For example, the heat-absorbing surface (511) may be provided on the lower surface of the thermoelectric element (510), and the heat-generating surface (512) may be provided on the upper surface of the thermoelectric element (510).

[0093] The thermoelectric device (500) may include a wire (513) connected to the thermoelectric element (510) to supply power to the thermoelectric element (510). One end of the wire (513) may be coupled to one surface of the thermoelectric element (510).

[0094] The wire (513) may include a first wire (5131) and a second wire (5132). One end of the first wire (5131) may be coupled to one end of one side of the thermoelectric element (510). One end of the second wire (5132) may be coupled to the other end of one side of the thermoelectric element (510). For example, the thermoelectric element (510) may have a positive electrode and a negative electrode, and one end of the first wire (5131) may be electrically connected to the positive electrode, and one end of the second wire (5132) may be electrically connected to the negative electrode.

[0095] The thermoelectric device (500) may include a sealing member (520). The sealing member (520) may seal the outer surface of the thermoelectric element (510). In other words, the sealing member (520) may seal the space between the thermoelectric element (510) and the duct body (410). Through this configuration, the sealing member (520) may block moisture or the like that may flow in from the outside of the thermoelectric element (510).

[0096] The thermoelectric device (500) may include a cooling unit (530) that is in contact with the heat-absorbing surface (511) of the thermoelectric element (510). The cooling unit (530) may be arranged inside the connecting duct (400). The cooling unit (530) may be configured to cool the air within the connecting duct (400). Specifically, the cooling unit (530) may absorb heat from the air within the connecting duct (400) and transfer the absorbed heat to the thermoelectric element (510). As the cooling unit (530) cools the air within the connecting duct (400), condensation may occur.

[0097] Condensate generated in the cooling unit (530) can be collected within the connecting duct (400). Specifically, the condensate generated in the cooling unit (530) can be collected in the storage unit (440) of the connecting duct (400). This will be described in detail later.

[0098] The cooling unit (530) may be provided on one side of the thermoelectric element (510). For example, the cooling unit (530) may be provided on the lower side of the thermoelectric element (510). That is, the cooling unit (530) may be placed between the duct body (410) and the drain unit (420).

[0099] The thermoelectric device (500) may include a heating unit (540) that is in contact with the heating surface (512) of the thermoelectric element (510). The heating unit (540) may be placed inside the connecting duct (400). The heating unit (540) may be arranged to heat the air within the connecting duct (400). Specifically, the heating unit (540) may receive heat from the thermoelectric element (510) and release the received heat into the interior of the connecting duct (400).

[0100] The heating unit (540) may be provided on the other side of the thermoelectric element (510). For example, the heating unit (540) may be provided on the upper side of the thermoelectric element (510). That is, the heating unit (540) may be placed between the duct body (410) and the cover (430).

[0101] The dishwasher (1a) may include a condensate pump (600). The condensate pump (600) may be provided to discharge condensate generated inside the connection duct (400) by the cooling unit (530) to the outside of the connection duct (400).

[0102] Since the connecting duct (400) is placed in the machine room (L) provided at the bottom of the dishwasher (1a), it may be structurally difficult to discharge the condensate outside the connecting duct (400) using only the condensate's own weight. In addition, if a flow path is formed between the connecting duct (400) and another component provided at a higher position than the connecting duct (400), there is a possibility that water may flow back into the connecting duct (400) from the other component.

[0103] According to the concept of the present disclosure, since the dishwasher (1a) includes a condensate pump (600), condensate within the connection duct (400) can be easily discharged to the outside of the connection duct (400). In addition, the condensate pump (600) can prevent water from flowing back into the connection duct (400) by causing condensate to flow in only one direction on a flow path formed between the connection duct (400) and another component.

[0104] The dishwasher (1a) may include a first connecting hose (710) connecting a condensate pump (600) and a connecting duct (400). As the condensate pump (600) operates, condensate in the connecting duct (400) may flow to the condensate pump (600) through the first connecting hose (710).

[0105] The dishwasher (1a) may include a second connecting hose (720) connecting the condensate pump (600) and the water tank (100). Condensate pumped by the condensate pump (600) may flow to the water tank (100) through the second connecting hose (720). This will be described in detail later.

[0106] The dishwasher (1a) may include a blower (800). The blower (800) may be configured to force air flow within the washing chamber (C). The blower (800) may form an air current within the washing chamber (C). The blower (800) may cause forced convection within the washing chamber (C).

[0107] The blower (800) may be placed on the other side of the tub (12). That is, the blower (800) may be placed on the opposite side of one side of the tub (12) where the water tank (100) is placed. For example, the blower (800) may be placed on the left side (-Y direction) of the tub (12), and the water tank (100) may be placed on the right side (+Y direction) of the tub (12). However, the positions where the blower (800) and the water tank (100) are placed are not limited thereto.

[0108] The air inside the washing room (C) can actively flow due to the air current formed by the blower device (800) and the air current formed by the first fan device (300) and the ducts (150, 160, 400). Accordingly, the drying efficiency of the dishwasher (1a) can be increased.

[0109] The blower device (800) may include a blower duct (810). The blower duct (810) may be in communication with the washing room (C). The blower duct (810) may be provided to allow air within the washing room (C) to be introduced or to discharge air to the washing room (C).

[0110] The blower (800) may include a second air inlet (not shown), a second air outlet (821), and a third air outlet (822). Air drawn into the blower duct (810) through the second air inlet (not shown) may pass through the blower duct (810) and be discharged through the second air outlet (821) and the third air outlet (822). Since the blower (800) has two air outlets (821, 822), the air within the washing room (C) may flow more actively.

[0111] The blower device (800) may include a second fan device (not shown). The second fan device (not shown) may create an air flow to draw air within the washing room (C) into the blower duct (810).

[0112] The dishwasher (1a) may include a first inlet cover (910). The first inlet cover (910) may cover the first air inlet (151) on the inside of the tub (12). The first inlet cover (910) may be coupled to the first air inlet (151). The first inlet cover (910) may primarily prevent foreign substances within the washing room (C) from entering the duct (150, 160, 400).

[0113] The dishwasher (1a) may include a second inlet cover (920). The second inlet cover (920) may cover a second air inlet (not shown) on the inside of the tub (12). The second inlet cover (920) may be coupled to the second air inlet (not shown). The second inlet cover (920) may primarily prevent foreign substances within the washing chamber (C) from entering the interior of the air duct (810).

[0114] FIG. 8 is a side view illustrating a water tank, a connecting duct, and a peripheral configuration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and illustrating the internal structure of the water tank.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 8, the water tank (100) may include a storage space (110) for storing water. The storage space (110) may be formed inside the water tank (100).

[0116] A plurality of guide ribs (111) may be formed in the storage space (110). The plurality of guide ribs (111) may guide water flowing into the storage space (110) to flow uniformly in various directions. Accordingly, since the pressure applied to the water tank (100) by the water can be formed at a constant level, the phenomenon of the water tank (100) becoming full can be prevented.

[0117] The water stored in the storage space (110) may be softened through a softening device (not shown) installed inside or outside the water tank (100). In addition, water softened through the softening device (not shown) may be introduced into the storage space (110) and stored therein. Water softened through the softening device (not shown) may be referred to as wash water.

[0118] As described above, the water tank (100) can be placed on one side of the tub (12). Through this configuration, water stored in the storage space (110) can receive heat from the washing room (C).

[0119] The temperature of the water supplied to the storage space (110) from an external water source (not shown) may be lower than the temperature of the washing room. Since the water supplied from the external water source receives heat from the washing room (C) after being supplied to the storage space (110), the difference between the temperature of the water and the temperature of the washing room (C) can be reduced. Accordingly, the amount of energy required to heat the water stored in the storage space (110) to a predetermined temperature for the washing process can be reduced.

[0120] The water tank (100) may include a water level control channel (121) and a water level control opening (122). The water level control channel (121) and the water level control opening (122) may be formed inside the storage space (110). When a certain amount of water exceeding a certain level flows into the storage space (110), the excess water may flow into the water level control channel (121) and be discharged into the washing room (C) through the water level control opening (122). Accordingly, an appropriate amount of water may always be stored inside the water tank (100).

[0121] The water tank (100) may include a water tank hole (130) provided to allow water to flow in from an external water source (not shown) or to discharge water to a sump assembly (70, see FIG. 3). The water tank hole (130) may be provided at the lower end of the water tank (100).

[0122] The water tank (100) may include an inlet channel (140) connected to a water tank hole (130). Water flowing into the water tank (100) through the water tank hole (130) may pass through the inlet channel (140) and be discharged into the storage space (110).

[0123] The dishwasher (1a) may include a valve (200). The valve (200) may be configured to open or close a drain hole (112, see FIG. 6) provided at the lower end of the storage space (110). For example, the valve (200) may be provided as a solenoid valve.

[0124] Specifically, when the valve (200) opens the drain hole (112), water stored in the storage space (110) can be discharged to the sump assembly (70, see FIG. 3) through the water tank hole (130). In addition, when the valve (200) closes the drain hole (112), water supplied from an external water source (not shown) can flow into the storage space (110) through the water tank hole (130) and the water intake channel (140).

[0125] As described above, the inlet duct (150) and the discharge duct (160) may each be provided inside the water tank (100). Specifically, the inlet duct (150) and the discharge duct (160) may each be provided on one side of the storage space (110). However, the inlet duct (150) and the discharge duct (160) do not necessarily have to be provided inside the water tank (100). For example, the inlet duct (150) and the discharge duct (160) may be provided separately from the water tank (100) outside the water tank (100).

[0126] An inlet duct joint (152) may be formed at one end where a first air inlet (151) of the inlet duct (150) is formed and at the other end. By connecting the first connecting duct joint (419) of the duct body (410) to the inlet duct joint (152), the connecting duct (400) and the inlet duct (150) may be connected. Accordingly, air introduced into the inlet duct (150) from the washing room (C) may flow into the connecting duct (400).

[0127] An exhaust duct coupling portion (162) may be formed at one end of the exhaust duct (160) where the first air outlet (161) is formed and at the other end. By coupling the second connecting duct coupling portion (439) of the cover (430) with the exhaust duct coupling portion (162), the connecting duct (400) and the exhaust duct (160) may be connected. Accordingly, air within the connecting duct (400) may be discharged to the washing room (C) via the exhaust duct (160).

[0128] FIG. 9 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the internal configuration of a connecting duct according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a side view of a drain section according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a plan view of a drain section according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 11, the ducts (150, 160, 400) may include a connecting duct (400). The connecting duct (400) may include a duct body (410), a drain portion (420) coupled to one side of the duct body (410), and a cover (430) coupled to the other side of the duct body (410).

[0130] As described above, the connecting duct (400) can be connected to the water tank (100) at the lower side of the water tank (100). The connecting duct (400) can be connected to the inlet duct (150) and the discharge duct (160), thereby connecting the inlet duct (150) and the discharge duct (160).

[0131] A first flow path (P1) can be formed by combining a duct body (410) and a drain portion (420). A second flow path (P2) can be formed by combining a duct body (410) and a second cover (430). For example, the first flow path (P1) and the second flow path (P2) can each extend in the left-right direction (Y direction).

[0132] The first flow path (P1) may be formed upstream of the second flow path (P2). That is, air flowing into the connection duct (400) from the inlet duct (150) may sequentially pass through the space between the duct body (410) and the drain portion (420) and the space between the duct body (410) and the cover (430) and flow into the exhaust duct (160).

[0133] According to the concept of the present disclosure, air introduced into the inlet duct (150) from the washing room (C) can flow into the connecting duct (400) and then be discharged back into the washing room (C) via the discharge duct (160). That is, the ducts (150, 160, 400) can form a circulation path together with the washing room (C).

[0134] As described above, the cooling unit (530) may be placed between the duct body (410) and the drain unit (420). That is, the cooling unit (530) may be placed on the first flow path (P1) formed between the duct body (410) and the drain unit (420). Through this configuration, the cooling unit (530) may cool the air introduced into the connection duct (400) through the inlet duct (150).

[0135] Air passing through the first flow path (P1) can be cooled by the cooling unit (530). Accordingly, the first flow path (P1) can be referred to as a cooling flow path (P1).

[0136] As described above, the heating unit (540) can be placed between the duct body (410) and the cover (430). That is, the heating unit (540) can be placed on the second flow path (P2) formed between the duct body (410) and the cover (430). Since the second flow path (P2) is formed on the downstream side of the first flow path (P1), the heating unit (540) can heat the air that has passed through the first flow path (P1).

[0137] Air passing through the second passage (P2) can be heated by the heating unit (540). Accordingly, the second passage (P2) can be referred to as a heating passage (P2).

[0138] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the cooling unit (530) may be provided upstream of the heating unit (540) based on the flow direction of air flowing into the connecting duct (400). Accordingly, the air flowing into the connecting duct (400) may be cooled by the cooling unit (530), and the air cooled by passing through the cooling unit (530) may be heated by the heating unit (540).

[0139] The air flowing into the connecting duct (400) may be high-temperature, high-humidity air since it is air flowing in from the washing room (C). The cooling unit (530) can cool the high-temperature, high-humidity air to generate condensate and simultaneously form low-temperature, low-humidity air. The heating unit (540) can heat the air cooled by the cooling unit (530) to form high-temperature, low-humidity air. The high-temperature, low-humidity air that passes through the heating unit (540) can be discharged into the washing room (C) through the discharge duct (160). The air discharged into the washing room (C) can absorb moisture in the washing room (C) and become high-temperature, high-humidity air again. The high-temperature, high-humidity air can be re-introduced into the connecting duct (400) through the inlet duct (150).

[0140] That is, the high temperature and high humidity air in the washing room (C) can become high temperature and low humidity air by passing through the duct (150, 160, 400), and the high temperature and low humidity air can again become high temperature and high humidity air by absorbing moisture in the washing room (C). In addition, the air in the washing room (C) can repeatedly go through the process described above while flowing along the circulation path formed by the washing room (C) and the duct (150, 160, 400). Accordingly, moisture in the washing room (C) can be gradually removed.

[0141] Additionally, hot air can have a higher saturation water vapor content than cold air. That is, hot air can contain a greater amount of water vapor than cold air. Therefore, a greater amount of moisture can be removed when hot, low-humidity air is discharged into the cleaning chamber (C) than when cold, low-humidity air is discharged into the cleaning chamber (C).

[0142] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the exhaust duct (160) can discharge high temperature and low humidity air into the washing room (C) through the cooling unit (530) and the heating unit (540). This configuration can increase the drying efficiency of the dishwasher (1a).

[0143] The cooling unit (530) may include a cooling plate (531). One surface of the cooling plate (531) may be in contact with the heat absorption surface (511) of the thermoelectric element (510). The cross-section of the cooling plate (531) may be wider than the heat absorption surface (511) of the thermoelectric element (510). Through this configuration, the cooling efficiency of the thermoelectric device (500) may be increased.

[0144] The cooling unit (530) may include a plurality of cooling fins (532). Each of the plurality of cooling fins (532) may protrude from the other surface of the cooling plate (531).

[0145] A plurality of cooling fins (532) may extend along the direction in which the first flow path (P1) extends. The plurality of cooling fins (532) may be arranged in a direction intersecting the direction in which the first flow path (P1) extends. For example, the plurality of cooling fins (532) may extend in the left-right direction (Y direction) and may be arranged in the front-back direction (X direction). Through this configuration, the area cooled by the cooling unit (530) may be expanded. In other words, the cooling efficiency of the thermoelectric device (500) may be increased.

[0146] As the high temperature and high humidity air flowing along the first passage (P1) passes through the plurality of cooling fins (532), the air can be cooled, and condensate can be formed on the plurality of cooling fins (532). The condensate formed on the plurality of cooling fins (532) can fall down due to its own weight.

[0147] The cross-section of each of the plurality of cooling fins (532) (specifically, the cross-section on the YZ plane) may be rectangular. However, the cross-section of each of the plurality of cooling fins (532) is not limited thereto. For example, each of the plurality of cooling fins (532) may have a trapezoidal cross-section with an inclined lower portion. In this case, the condensate formed on each of the plurality of cooling fins (532) may flow along the lower portion of each of the plurality of cooling fins (532) and may be collected at the lower portion of each of the plurality of cooling fins (532) corresponding to the vertex of the trapezoid, and thus the condensate may more easily fall off from the plurality of cooling fins (532).

[0148] The heating unit (540) may include a heating plate (541). One surface of the heating plate (541) may be in contact with the heating surface (512) of the thermoelectric element (510). The cross-section of the heating plate (541) may be wider than the heating surface (512) of the thermoelectric element (510). Through this configuration, the heating efficiency of the thermoelectric device (500) may be increased.

[0149] The heating unit (540) may include a plurality of heating fins (542). Each of the plurality of heating fins (542) may protrude from the other surface of the heating plate (541).

[0150] A plurality of heating fins (542) may extend along the direction in which the second flow path (P2) extends. The plurality of heating fins (542) may be arranged in a direction intersecting the direction in which the second flow path (P2) extends. Through this configuration, the area heated by the heating unit (540) may be expanded. In other words, the heating efficiency of the thermoelectric device (500) may be increased.

[0151] The connecting duct (400) may include a storage unit (440). The storage unit (440) may be formed by a drain unit (420). The storage unit (440) may be provided to collect condensate generated in the cooling unit (530).

[0152] The storage unit (440) may be formed in the internal space of the drain unit (420). The storage unit (440) is positioned below the cooling unit (530) to effectively collect condensate generated in the cooling unit (530).

[0153] The connecting duct (400) may include a rib (460). The rib (460) may be formed on the lower surface (420a) of the drain portion. The rib (460) may protrude perpendicular to the direction in which the cooling channel (P1) extends within the drain portion (420). For example, the cooling channel (P1) may extend in the left-right direction (Y direction), and the rib (460) may protrude upward (+Z direction).

[0154] As described above, a cooling path (P1) can be formed by combining the duct body (410) and the drain portion (420). Specifically, the cooling path (P1) can refer to a path through which air introduced from the inlet duct (150) flows to the connecting duct (400) and then flows through the cooling portion (530) and the storage portion (550).

[0155] If air introduced into the connecting duct (400) passes through the storage unit (440), the cooling efficiency may decrease. Since the rib (460) protrudes perpendicularly to the direction in which the cooling passage (P1) extends, the air passing through the cooling passage (P1) may be prevented from flowing through the storage unit (440). Due to this configuration, the proportion of air passing through the cooling unit (530) may increase. If the air passes through the cooling unit (530), the cooling efficiency of the thermoelectric device (500) may increase.

[0156] The number of ribs (460) may be plural. The protruding length and extended direction of the plurality of ribs (460) may be different for each of the plurality of ribs (460).

[0157] The connecting duct (400) may include a discharge hole (450). The discharge hole (450) may be provided to discharge condensate collected in the storage unit (440). The discharge hole (450) may be formed on the lower surface (420a) of the drain unit.

[0158] The lower surface (420a) of the drain section may be inclined downward toward the discharge hole (450) to guide the condensate collected in the storage section (440) to the discharge hole (450). Through this configuration, the condensate collected in the storage section (440) may flow to the discharge hole (450) by its own weight.

[0159] The rib (460) can be inclined to guide the condensate collected in the storage unit (440) to the discharge hole (450). Through this configuration, the condensate collected in the storage unit (440) can flow to the discharge hole (450).

[0160] The rib (460) may be inclined at an angle of 7 degrees or more and 30 degrees or less from the direction in which the cooling channel (P1) extends, which is perpendicular to the direction in which the cooling channel (P1) extends. Condensate collected in the storage unit (440) may be guided to the discharge hole if the angle of inclination of the rib (460) is 7 degrees or more. If the angle of inclination of the rib (460) is 30 degrees or less, air passing through the cooling channel (P1) may be prevented from flowing through the storage unit (440). Preferably, the angle of inclination of the rib (460) may be 15 degrees.

[0161] A first connection hose (710, see FIG. 8) may be connected to the discharge hole (450). That is, the first connection hose (710) may connect the condensate pump (600) and the discharge hole (450). Accordingly, the condensate collected in the storage unit (440) may flow to the condensate pump (600) through the first connection hose (710).

[0162] The condensate pump (600) may be provided to discharge the condensate collected in the storage unit (440) from the storage unit (440). Specifically, the condensate pump (600) may discharge the condensate collected in the storage unit (440) to the washing room (C). That is, the condensate pump (600) may pump the condensate collected in the storage unit (440) and discharge the pumped condensate to the washing room (C). Hereinafter, the configurations for discharging the condensate to the washing room (C) will be described.

[0163] The water tank (100) may include an inlet hole (170). The inlet hole (170) may be provided to allow condensate pumped by a condensate pump (600) to flow in.

[0164] A second connecting hose (720) can be connected to the inlet hole (170). That is, the second connecting hose (720) can connect the condensate pump (600) and the inlet hole (170).

[0165] The water tank (100) may include a discharge channel (180). An inlet hole (170) may be provided at one end of the discharge channel (180). Accordingly, condensate may be introduced into the discharge channel (180) through the inlet hole (170).

[0166] The discharge channel (180) can be formed by being partitioned with a storage space (110), an inlet duct (150), and a discharge duct (160).

[0167] A connecting hole (181) may be provided at the other end of the exhaust channel (180). The other end of the exhaust channel (180) may be connected to an air exhaust port (161) through the connecting hole (181). That is, the exhaust channel (180) may connect the inlet hole (170) and the air exhaust port (161).

[0168] As described above, the air outlet (161) can be connected to the washing room (C). Accordingly, the discharge channel (180) can form a path through which the condensate introduced through the inlet hole (170) flows into the washing room (C). The condensate flowing into the air outlet (161) can be discharged into the washing room (C).

[0169] That is, the condensate collected in the storage unit (440) can be discharged to the washing room (C) by the condensate pump (600). The condensate discharged to the washing room (C) can be collected in the sump assembly (70, see FIG. 3) provided at the bottom of the washing room (C).

[0170] Although this document only describes an embodiment in which condensate is discharged to a washing room (C), the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, condensate may be discharged into a storage space (110) of a water tank (100) via a condensate pump (600). Through this configuration, the total amount of water supplied to the storage space (110) from an external water source (not shown) can be reduced.

[0171] The drain unit (420) may include a discharge path (451) through which condensate discharged through the discharge hole (450) flows. The discharge path (450) may be connected to the discharge hole (450). The discharge path (451) may be parallel to the direction in which the cooling path (P1) extends or the direction in which the heating path (P2) extends. The first connecting hose (710) may connect the condensate pump (600) and the discharge path (451). Through this configuration, the length of the first connecting hose (710) may be shortened. In addition, the structure inside the machine room (L) may be improved.

[0172] Figure 12 is a result of a comparative test of the flow rate of air flowing inside a connecting duct according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 12, a cooling path (P1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can induce air introduced into a connecting duct (400) to flow to a cooling unit (530).

[0174] Fig. 12(A) is an analysis result showing the air flow velocity inside a connecting duct (400) including a drain section (420) that does not include a rib. Fig. 12(B) is an analysis result showing the air flow velocity inside a connecting duct (400) including a rib (460) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0175] According to the above interpretation results, it can be seen that the flow speed of air passing through the cooling section (530) is faster in the cooling passage (P1) formed by the drain section (420) including ribs than in the cooling passage (P1) formed by the drain section (420) not including ribs.

[0176] The results of the flow rate comparison test of air flowing inside the connecting duct are shown in Table 1.

[0177] Classification (A) (B) Total flow rate [m3 / min] 0.154 0.148 Cooling section flow rate [m3 / min] 0.07 0.137 Bypass flow rate 54% 7.3%

[0178] The total flow rate in Table 1 is the flow rate of air passing through the cooling passage (P1). The cooling section (530) flow rate is the flow rate of air passing through the cooling section (530). The bypass flow rate is the ratio of air that does not pass through the cooling section (530) in the cooling passage (P1). It can be seen that the ratio of air passing through the cooling passage (P1) formed by the drain section (420) including ribs is higher than that of the cooling passage (P1) formed by the drain section (420) not including ribs. FIG. 13 is a side view of a drain section according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 13, the home appliance (1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a water collection section (470).

[0179] The water collecting unit (470) can collect condensate discharged through the discharge hole (450). The water collecting unit (470) can be placed below the drain unit (420). The discharge path (451) of the home appliance (1) including the water collecting unit (470) can be connected to the water collecting unit (470) so that the condensate collected in the water collecting unit (470) flows to the first connection hose (710).

[0180] Fig. 14 is an exploded view of a drain portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 15 is a side view showing the combined configuration of the drain portion illustrated in Fig. 14.

[0181] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, a home appliance (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a drain portion (420).

[0182] The drain portion (420) may include a rib (460) protruding from the upper portion of the storage portion (440). The rib (460) may protrude in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the cooling passage (P1) extends. The rib (460) may be provided to be detachable from the drain portion (420). The rib (460) may have a grill shape. Since the grill-shaped rib (460) is formed to protrude from the upper portion of the storage portion (440), air passing through the cooling passage (P1) can be prevented from flowing into the storage portion (440).

[0183] According to one embodiment, a home appliance (1) comprises a thermoelectric device (500) including a main body (10), a receiving space (C) formed inside the main body (10), an inlet duct (150) for air discharged from the receiving space (C) to flow, a cooling unit (530) provided to cool air introduced through the inlet duct (150) and a heating unit (540) provided to heat air passing through the cooling unit (530), and a storage unit (440) formed to collect condensate generated in the cooling unit (530), and a drain unit (420) disposed below the cooling unit (530), wherein the drain unit (420) forms a cooling passage (P1) for cooling air introduced through the inlet duct (150) together with the cooling unit (530), and a discharge hole (450) through which condensate collected in the storage unit (440) is discharged and condensate flowing through the cooling passage (P1) It includes a rib (460) formed to prevent air from flowing through the storage unit (440).

[0184] The above rib (460) may be characterized by protruding from the lower surface inside the drain portion (420) so as to be perpendicular to the direction in which the cooling channel (P1) extends.

[0185] The above discharge hole (450) is formed on the lower surface of the drain portion (420), and the lower surface of the drain portion (420) can be inclined downward toward the discharge hole (450) to guide the condensate collected in the storage portion (440) to the discharge hole (450).

[0186] The above rib (460) can be inclined to guide the condensate collected in the storage unit (440) to the discharge hole (450).

[0187] The number of the above ribs (460) can be provided in multiples.

[0188] A collection unit (470) may be further included to be placed below the drain unit (420) to collect condensate discharged through the discharge hole (450).

[0189] It may further include an exhaust duct (160) for discharging air passing through the heating unit (540) to the receiving space (C), and a connecting duct (400) connecting the inlet duct (150) and the exhaust duct (160).

[0190] The thermoelectric device (500) is placed inside the connecting duct (400), and the thermoelectric device (500) may further include a thermoelectric element (510) having the cooling unit (530) provided on one side and the heating unit (540) provided on the other side.

[0191] The above connecting duct (400) may include a duct body (410) on which the thermoelectric element (510) is mounted, a drain portion (420) coupled with the duct body (410) from below the duct body (410), and a cover (430) coupled with the duct body (410) from above the duct body (410).

[0192] The cover (430) may be characterized in that it forms a heating path (P2) that heats air passing through the cooling path (P1) together with the heating part (540) through the heating part (540), and the air heated through the heating path (P2) is discharged to the receiving space (C) through the discharge duct (160).

[0193] It may be characterized in that the direction in which the cooling path (P1) extends and the direction in which the heating path (P2) extends are parallel.

[0194] The above drain part (420) further includes a discharge path (451) through which condensate discharged through the discharge hole (450) flows, and the discharge path (451) may be characterized in that it is parallel to the direction in which the cooling path (P1) extends or the direction in which the heating path (P2) extends.

[0195] The above rib (460) may protrude from the top of the storage unit (440).

[0196] The above rib (460) can be provided so as to be separable from the drain portion (420).

[0197] The above rib (460) may be characterized by having a grill shape.

[0198] According to one embodiment, a home appliance (1) includes an inlet duct (150) through which air is introduced, a connection duct (400) connected to the inlet duct (150) and supplied with air from the inlet duct (150), an exhaust duct (160) connected to the connection duct (400) and discharging air in the connection duct (400), a cooling unit (530) provided to cool air introduced through the inlet duct (150), and a heating unit (540) provided to heat air passing through the cooling unit (530), and includes a thermoelectric device (500) disposed inside the connection duct (400), and the connection duct (400) may be disposed below the thermoelectric device (500) and may include a drain unit (420) and a plurality of ribs (460) protruding from a lower surface of the drain unit (420).

[0199] A discharge hole (450) is formed on the lower surface of the drain portion (420), and the plurality of ribs (460) can be inclined toward the discharge hole (450).

[0200] The cooling unit (530) and the drain unit (420) form a cooling passage (P1) that cools air flowing in from the inlet duct (150), and the plurality of ribs (460) protrude from the lower surface of the drain unit (420) perpendicular to the direction in which the cooling passage (P1) extends, so that air flowing through the cooling passage (P1) can be guided to flow to the cooling unit (530).

[0201] The above cooling unit (530) may include a plurality of cooling fins (532) extending along the direction in which the cooling path (P1) extends.

[0202] In the discharge path (451) connected to the discharge hole (450) so that the condensate discharged through the discharge hole (450) flows, the discharge path (451) can be extended in the same direction as the direction in which the cooling path (P1) extends.

[0203] According to the concept of the present disclosure, a thermoelectric device of a home appliance can be placed inside a duct. The cooling unit of the thermoelectric device can cool high-temperature, high-humidity air introduced from a receiving space to generate condensate and simultaneously form low-temperature, low-humidity air. The heating unit of the thermoelectric device can reheat the air cooled by the cooling unit to form high-temperature, low-humidity air.

[0204] According to the invention, the cooling efficiency of a home appliance including a thermoelectric device can be increased.

[0205] According to the invention, air flowing through a cooling channel can be induced to flow into the cooling section of a thermoelectric device. Through this configuration, the drying efficiency of a home appliance including a thermoelectric device can be increased.

[0206] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0207] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. Main body; A receiving space formed on the inside of the above body; An inlet duct for air to flow from the above-mentioned receiving space; A thermoelectric device including a cooling unit configured to cool air introduced through the inlet duct and a heating unit configured to heat air passing through the cooling unit; and A storage unit is formed to collect condensate generated in the cooling unit, and a drain unit is disposed below the cooling unit; The above drain part, A cooling path is formed to cool the air introduced through the inlet duct together with the cooling unit, An appliance comprising a discharge hole through which condensate collected in the storage unit is discharged and a rib formed to prevent air flowing through the cooling channel from flowing through the storage unit.

2. In paragraph 1, A home appliance characterized in that the rib protrudes from the lower surface inside the drain section so as to be perpendicular to the direction in which the cooling channel extends.

3. In paragraph 2, The above discharge hole is formed on the lower surface of the drain portion, An appliance in which the lower surface of the drain portion is inclined downward toward the discharge hole to guide condensate collected in the storage portion to the discharge hole.

4. In paragraph 3, An appliance in which the above ribs are inclined to guide condensate collected in the above storage unit to the above discharge hole.

5. In paragraph 4, A home appliance in which the number of the above ribs is provided in multiples.

6. In paragraph 1, A home appliance further comprising a collection unit disposed below the drain unit to collect condensate discharged through the discharge hole.

7. In paragraph 1, An exhaust duct for discharging air passing through the heating unit into the receiving space; and An appliance further comprising a connecting duct connecting the inlet duct and the outlet duct.

8. In paragraph 7, The thermoelectric device is placed inside the connecting duct, A home appliance wherein the thermoelectric device further includes a thermoelectric element having the cooling section provided on one side and the heating section provided on the other side.

9. In paragraph 8, The above connecting duct, A duct body in which the above thermoelectric element is mounted, A drain part coupled to the duct body below the duct body, and An appliance comprising a cover coupled to the duct body above the duct body.

10. In paragraph 9, The above cover forms a heating path that heats the air passing through the cooling path together with the heating part through the heating part, A home appliance characterized in that air heated through the heating passage is discharged into the receiving space through the exhaust duct.

11. In paragraph 10, A home appliance characterized in that the direction in which the cooling path extends and the direction in which the heating path extends are parallel.

12. In paragraph 11, The above drain portion further includes a discharge path through which condensate discharged through the discharge hole flows, A home appliance characterized in that the discharge path is parallel to the direction in which the cooling path extends or the direction in which the heating path extends.

13. In paragraph 1, The above rib is a home appliance that protrudes from the top of the storage unit.

14. In paragraph 13, A home appliance in which the above rib is provided to be separated from the above drain portion.

15. In Article 14 A home appliance characterized in that the above ribs have a grill shape.

Images