Dishwasher

Abstract

This dishwasher comprises: a tub; a spray unit including a nozzle and provided inside the tub to spray washing water; a sump for accommodating the washing water to be supplied to the spray unit; and a water treatment device for treating the washing water to be supplied to the sump. The water treatment device comprises: a case including an inflow port and a discharge port; a deionization module including an electrode capable of adsorbing ionic substances present in water supplied through the inflow port; and an accommodation part which includes a chamber provided on a flow path through which the water supplied through the inflow port flows to the deionization module, and which can accommodate a regeneration material for removing ions adsorbed onto the deionization module.

Description

dishwasher

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher including a water treatment device.

[0002] A dishwasher is a device that washes dishes stored inside by spraying them with high-pressure water and then dries them. The dishwasher operates by spraying high-pressure water into the washing chamber where dishes are stored, and the sprayed water comes into contact with the dishes to wash away foreign substances, such as food residue, adhering to the surface of the dishes.

[0003] A dishwasher may include a tub for forming a washing chamber and a sump mounted on the bottom of the tub for storing water. Water moves to a spray nozzle by the pumping action of a washing pump mounted inside the sump. The water that moves to the spray nozzle is sprayed at high pressure through a nozzle formed in the spray nozzle. As the water sprayed at high pressure strikes the surface of the dishes, dirt such as food residue adhering to the dishes falls to the bottom of the tub.

[0004] A dishwasher may include a water treatment device capable of converting raw water supplied from a water source into soft water. For example, the water treatment device may include a Capacitive Deionization (CDI) device. The water treatment device can produce soft water by adsorbing ionic substances contained in the raw water. Since the water treatment device has a limit to its adsorption capacity due to capacitance, periodic regeneration is required. As the time spent performing the water treatment process increases, scale may accumulate on the electrodes, which may reduce the efficiency of the water treatment process.

[0005] The embodiments of the present disclosure provide a dishwasher with an improved structure.

[0006] The technical problems intended to be solved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0007] A dishwasher according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a tub, a spray unit comprising a nozzle provided to spray wash water inside the tub, a sump provided to receive wash water to be supplied to the spray unit, and a water treatment device for treating wash water to be supplied to the sump. The water treatment device comprises a case including an inlet port and an outlet port, a deionization module including an electrode capable of adsorbing an ionic substance contained in water supplied through the inlet port, and a receiving portion including a chamber provided on a flow path through which water supplied through the inlet port flows to the deionization module, the receiving portion being configured to receive a regeneration material for removing ions adsorbed on the deionization module.

[0008] A dishwasher according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a tub, a spray unit including a nozzle arranged to spray wash water inside the tub, a sump arranged to receive wash water to be supplied to the spray unit, and a water treatment device for treating wash water to be supplied to the sump. The water treatment device comprises a case including an inlet port, an outlet port, and a supply opening that opens toward the interior of the tub, a deionization module including an electrode configured to adsorb an ionic substance contained in water supplied through the inlet port, a receiving portion arranged on a flow path through which water supplied through the inlet port flows to the deionization module, the receiving portion configured to receive a regeneration material for removing ions adsorbed on the deionization module, and a guide portion configured to guide water from the receiving portion to the deionization module, the guide portion including an air hole located at a position higher than the inlet port.

[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates a side cross-section of a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates some of the internal configurations of a dishwasher housing according to various embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the arrangement of a water treatment device and a case brake for a tub of a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates the connection relationships of components related to the flow of washing water in a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates a water treatment device for a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-section along the line A-A' of FIG. 5 according to various embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 7 illustrates an enlarged view of part B of FIG. 6 according to various embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates the process of water being purified as it passes through a water treatment device according to various embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 9 schematically illustrates the process of removing scale from a water treatment device according to various embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 10 illustrates the state of introducing a regenerative material into a water treatment device according to various embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 11 illustrates a portion of a cross-section along the line C-C' of FIG. 5 according to various embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 12 illustrates the connection relationships of components related to the flow of washing water in a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0021] The various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of the various embodiments.

[0022] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0023] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0024] In the present disclosure, each of the phrases such as “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 the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0025] The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0026] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0027] Where one (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," said component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0028] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this disclosure, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0029] When it is said that a component is "connected," "combined," "supported," or "in contact" with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0030] When it is said that a component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0031] The terms "part," "module," and "component" may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, a plurality of "parts," "modules," and "components" may be implemented as a single component, or a single "part," "module," or "component" may include a plurality of components.

[0032] Terms such as "~part," "~unit," "~block," "~part," and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the above terms may refer to at least one piece of hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) or ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one piece of software stored in memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0033] The symbols attached to each step are used to identify each step and do not indicate the order of the steps relative to one another; the steps may be performed differently from the specified order unless a specific order is clearly indicated in the context.

[0034] Terms such as "front," "rear," "left," "right," "top," and "bottom" used in the following description are defined based on the drawings; however, the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, the front side may be defined as the +X side and the rear side as the -X side. For example, based on the drawings, the right side may be defined as the +Y side and the left side as the -Y side. For example, based on the drawings, the top side may be defined as the +Z side and the bottom side as the -Z side.

[0035] Various embodiments according to the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0036] FIG. 1 illustrates a side cross-section of a dishwasher according to various embodiments. FIG. 2 illustrates some of the internal components of the housing of a dishwasher according to various embodiments. FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the arrangement of a water treatment device and a case brake for a tub of a dishwasher according to various embodiments. FIG. 4 illustrates the connection relationships of components related to the flow of washing water in a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0037] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the dishwasher (1) may include a housing (10). The housing (10) may form the exterior of the dishwasher (1). Various components for operating the dishwasher (1) may be located inside the housing (10).

[0038] The dishwasher (1) may include a tub (12) provided inside the housing (10). The tub (12) may be provided in a roughly box shape. For example, the tub (12) may have a box shape with one side open. The tub (12) may have an opening (12a). The opening (12a) may be formed at the front of the tub (12).

[0039] The dishwasher (1) 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). The receiving space (C) may be formed inside the housing (10).

[0040] The receiving space (C) of the dishwasher (1) may be referred to as the washing room (C). The washing room (C) may refer to a space where dishes placed in a storage container are washed and dried.

[0041] The dishwasher (1) may include a door (11) provided to open and close the opening (12a) of the tub (12). The door (11) may be installed in the housing (10) to open and close the opening (12a) of the tub (12). The door (11) may be detachably mounted to the housing (10). The door (11) may be rotatably mounted to the housing (10). For example, the door (11) may be rotatably coupled to the housing (10) via a hinge.

[0042] The dishwasher (1) may include a storage container provided inside the tub (12) to store dishes.

[0043] The storage container may include a plurality of baskets (51, 52, 53). The plurality of baskets (51, 52, 53) may be provided to store various tableware. However, it is not limited thereto, and the storage container may include a single basket.

[0044] The storage container may include an intermediate basket (52) located approximately in the center of the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher (1). The intermediate basket (52) may be introduced into or withdrawn from the washing chamber (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 slidable by the intermediate guide rack (13b). For example, the intermediate guide rack (13b) may be installed on the inner side of the tub (12).

[0045] The storage container may include a lower basket (51) located approximately at the bottom in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher (1). The lower basket (51) may be introduced into or withdrawn from the washing chamber (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 slidable by the lower guide rack (13a). For example, the lower guide rack (13a) may be installed on the inner side of the tub (12).

[0046] Relatively bulky tableware can be stored in the multiple baskets (51, 52). However, the types of tableware stored in the multiple baskets (51, 52) are not limited to relatively bulky tableware. For example, not only relatively bulky tableware but also relatively small tableware can be stored in the multiple baskets (51, 52).

[0047] The storage container may include an upper basket (53) located at the top in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher (1). The upper basket (53) is formed in the form of a rack assembly so that relatively small tableware can be stored. 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 tableware stored in the upper basket (53) are not limited to the above examples.

[0048] The upper basket (53) can be introduced into or withdrawn from the washing chamber (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 side of the tub (12).

[0049] The dishwasher (1) may include a spray device (40) provided 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 (70).

[0050] 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).

[0051] For example, the spray device (40) may include a first spray unit (41) positioned at the bottom of the lower basket (51) in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher (1). The spray device (40) may include a second spray unit (42) positioned at the bottom of the middle basket (52) in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher (1). The spray device (40) may include a third spray unit (43) positioned at the top of the upper basket (53) in the height direction (Z direction) of the dishwasher (1). However, it is not limited thereto, and the spray device may include two or fewer or four or more spray units.

[0052] Each of the plurality of spray units (41, 42, 43) may be configured to spray cleaning 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 configured to spray cleaning water while rotating. The plurality of spray units (41, 42, 43) may be referred to as a plurality of spray rotors (41, 42, 43). Each of the first spray unit (41), the second spray unit (42), and the third spray unit (43) may be referred to as the first spray rotor (41), the second spray rotor (42), and the third spray rotor (43).

[0053] However, the spraying device (40) may spray cleaning water in a manner different from the example described above. For example, the first spraying unit (41) may be fixed to one side of the lower surface (12d) of the tub (12), unlike the second spraying unit (42) and the third spraying unit (43). In this case, the first spraying unit (41) is configured to spray cleaning water in an approximately horizontal direction by means of a fixed nozzle, and the cleaning water sprayed in an approximately horizontal direction from the nozzle of the first spraying unit (41) may be directed upward by means of a switching assembly (not shown) disposed inside the cleaning chamber (C). The switching assembly may be installed on a rail (not shown) and configured to be movable translationally along the rail. Meanwhile, although the first spraying unit (41) was described as an example, the second spraying unit (42) and the third spraying unit (43) may also be configured to spray cleaning water using a fixed nozzle in the same manner as the example described above.

[0054] The dishwasher (1) may include a sump (70). The sump (70) may be provided to accommodate wash water. The sump (70) may collect wash water from the wash chamber (C). For example, to facilitate the collection of water in the sump (70), the lower surface (12d) of the tub (12) may be provided to slope downward toward the sump (70). Wash water from the wash chamber (C) may flow along the slope of the lower surface (12d) of the tub (12) and flow smoothly into the sump (70).

[0055] The dishwasher (1) may include a circulation pump (71) that pumps washing water stored in the sump (70) to the spray device (40). The circulation pump (71) may be provided as part of the sump (70). The circulation pump (71) may be placed in the machine room (L).

[0056] The sump (70) may be configured to supply wash water to at least one of the plurality of spray units (41, 42, 43). The sump (70) may be configured to selectively supply wash water to the plurality of spray units (41, 42, 43).

[0057] The dishwasher (1) may include a pipe (14). The pipe (14) may be provided to guide wash water from the sump (70) to the spray device (40). The pipe (14) may include a shape that extends approximately in the height direction (Z direction).

[0058] The dishwasher (1) 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 placed. The dishwasher (1) may include a base frame (20) forming the machine room (L). The machine room (L) may be partitioned from the wash room (C).

[0059] At least a portion of the sump (70) may be placed in the machine room (L). For example, most of the sump (70) may be placed in the machine room (L). For example, the area of ​​the sump (70) located in the washing room (C) may be smaller than the area of ​​the sump (70) located in the machine room (L). By reducing the area of ​​the sump (70) that occupies the washing room (C), the area of ​​the washing room (C) can be secured. By doing so, the capacity of the washing room (C) can be increased, and dish storage capacity can be improved.

[0060] The dishwasher (1) may include a filter (60). The filter (60) may be provided to filter foreign substances contained in the wash water flowing into the sump (70). The wash water filtered by the filter (60) may be delivered to the spray device (40) via the sump (70). The filter (60) may be detachably mounted on the sump (70). For example, the filter (60) may include at least one of a fine filter, a coarse filter, or a micro filter.

[0061] The dishwasher (1) may include a case break (80) coupled to the side wall (12b) of the tub (12). For example, the case break (80) may be coupled to the outer wall of the tub (12). Additionally, the case break (80) may be positioned at the bottom of the outer wall of the tub (12). As an example, the case break (80) may receive washing water from a water treatment device (100). The case break (80) may guide water to the sump (70).

[0062] The dishwasher (1) may include a water tank (90). The water tank (90) may be provided to store water for supply to the washing chamber (C). For example, the water tank (90) may be provided to temporarily store washing water supplied from the case break (80). For example, the water tank (90) may be provided to store washing water treated in a water treatment device (100). The water tank (90) may be placed on one side of the tub (12). The water tank (90) may be placed on the outside of one side wall (12b) of the tub (12). The water tank (90) may guide water to the sump (70). For example, the water tank (90) may be omitted, and the washing water outlet (83) of the case break (80) may be connected to the sump (70).

[0063] The case brake (80), water tank (90), sump (70), and water treatment device (100) are each connected by a hose through which washing water flows, but for convenience of explanation, this is omitted from the description. Also, the hose is omitted from the drawing.

[0064] The case brake (80) is provided to be connected to a communication hole formed in the side wall (12b) of the tub (12).

[0065] The case brake (80) can prevent / reduce backflow of washing water passing through the case brake (80) into a water treatment device (100) connected to the case brake (80). The case brake (80) may include an air brake provided to prevent / reduce backflow of washing water into the water treatment device (100).

[0066] The air break may include an air break hole that is provided so that the flow path inside the case break (80) is open to the outside so that the flow path through which cleaning water flows inside the case break (80) communicates with the outside.

[0067] The air brake hole allows the pressure inside the case brake (80) and / or the internal flow path and the atmosphere to be in pressure equilibrium.

[0068] An air brake may be provided to prevent / reduce backflow of cleaning water by means of a siphon shape in the event that the water supply is interrupted.

[0069] The air brake can be configured so that when the washing water flowing into the case brake (80) exceeds a predetermined hydraulic pressure or flow rate, the washing water flows into the case brake (80) through the air brake to flow into the tub (12).

[0070] The case brake (80) may include a case body (81) forming an internal flow path, a washing water inlet (82) provided to allow washing water softened in a water treatment device (100) to flow into the case body (81), and a washing water outlet (83) provided to allow washing water to pass through the internal flow path of the case brake (80) and be discharged from the case body (81).

[0071] The cleaning water introduced into the case body (81) through the cleaning water inlet (82) flows into the air brake, and the cleaning water that passes through the air brake can flow into the cleaning water outlet (83) so as to flow toward the sump (70).

[0072] The case brake (80) may include a drain inlet (84) into which cleaning water drained from the sump (70) flows, and a drain outlet (85) provided to allow the cleaning water that has flowed into the case body (81) through the drain inlet (84) to be drained to the outside. The drain outlet (85) may be connected to the outside through a hose.

[0073] The dishwasher (1) may include a water treatment device (100) for making water supplied from the outside to the sump (70) into soft water. Making water into soft water may include removing ions from the water. Removing ions from the water may include removing ionic substances from the water. As an example, the water treatment device (100) may receive water from an external water source.

[0074] The water treatment device (100) may be positioned upstream of the case brake (80) so that softened washing water flows to the case brake (80). The water treatment device (100) may be positioned below the tub (12). For example, at least a portion of the water treatment device (100) may be located in the machine room (L). For example, a portion of the water treatment device (100) may be positioned below the lower surface (12d) of the tub (12). The water treatment device (100) may be housed within the housing (10).

[0075] A water treatment device (100) is placed inside a housing (10), so that even if washing water flows out of the water treatment device (100), washing water may not leak out to the outside of the housing (10).

[0076] For example, the water treatment device (100) may include a capacitive deionization (CDI) device.

[0077] The sump (70) may include a water collection section (71). For example, the water collection section (71) may collect wash water that has passed through the water treatment device (100) and the case brake (80) in sequence. For example, the water collection section (71) may collect wash water that has passed through the water treatment device (100), the case brake (80), and the water tank (90) in sequence. The water collection section (71) may include an opening to collect water. The water collection section (71) may be provided on one side facing the tub (12) of the sump (70).

[0078] The sump (70) may include a seating portion (72). The lower surface (12d) of the tub (12) may be seated on the seating portion (72). The tub (12) may be combined with the sump (70).

[0079] The sump (70) may include a sump drain (73). The sump drain (73) may be provided to drain water collected in the collection unit (71). The sump drain (73) may discharge water to the drain inlet (84) of the case brake (80). Water that flows into the case brake (80) through the drain inlet (84) may be discharged to the outside through the drain outlet (85).

[0080] For example, a check valve may be provided in the sump drain (73). The check valve can reduce backflow of water. For example, the check valve may be placed at one end of the sump drain (72).

[0081] The sump (70) may include a drain pump connection (74). The drain pump connection (74) may be provided with a drain pump that pumps water to drain water collected after a washing stroke.

[0082] The sump (70) may include a sump inlet (75). For example, the sump inlet (75) may be connected to a separate hose connected to the wash water outlet (83) of the case brake (80). For example, the sump inlet (75) may be connected to a separate hose connected to the tank outlet (93) of the water tank (90). Wash water within the case brake (80) may flow into the sump (70) through the sump inlet (75). The water flowing into the sump (70) may be collected in the collection section (71).

[0083] For example, the sump inlet (75) may be configured to collect wash water that has passed through the water treatment device (100) and the case brake (80) in sequence into the sump (70). For example, the sump inlet (75) may be configured to collect wash water that has passed through the water treatment device (100), the case brake (80), and the water tank (90) in sequence into the sump (70).

[0084] The dishwasher (1) may include a water tank (90) for storing washing water that has passed through a water treatment device (100). The water tank (90) may be configured so that washing water that has passed through the water treatment device (100) is temporarily stored and then flows to a sump (70).

[0085] The water tank (90) may include a tank case (91), a tank inlet (92) into which washing water flows into the tank case (91), and a tank outlet (93) into which the washing water flowing in through the tank inlet (92) is discharged.

[0086] For example, the washing water passing through the water treatment device (100) can pass through the case brake (80) and flow into the water tank (90). For example, the tank inlet (92) of the water tank (90) can be connected to the washing water outlet (83) of the case brake (80). For example, the tank outlet (93) of the water tank (90) can be connected to the sump inlet (75) of the sump (70).

[0087] The water tank (90) can be attached to the side wall (12b) of the tub (12) where the case brake (80) is placed. The water tank (90) can be attached to the outer wall of the tub (12) where the case brake (80) is attached.

[0088] The water tank (90) can be placed on the side wall (12b) of the tub (12) where the case brake (80) is not located.

[0089] As the water tank (90) and the case brake (80) are positioned on the same side of the tub (12), the space between the tub (12) and the housing (10) can be minimized / reduced. For example, the width of the water tank (90) from the outer side of the tub (12) toward the housing (10) can be arranged to be similar to the width of the case brake (80) from the outer side of the tub (12) toward the housing (10). According to this configuration, the dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can maximize / increase the capacity of the case brake (80) and the water tank (90) in the space between the tub (12) and the housing (10) where the case brake (80) and the water tank (90) are positioned.

[0090] FIG. 5 illustrates a water treatment device of a dishwasher according to various embodiments. FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-section along line A-A' of FIG. 5 according to various embodiments. FIG. 7 illustrates an enlarged view of part B of FIG. 6 according to various embodiments. FIG. 8 schematically illustrates the process of purifying water passing through a water treatment device according to various embodiments. FIG. 9 schematically illustrates the process of removing scale from a water treatment device according to various embodiments. FIG. 10 illustrates the state of introducing a regenerative material into a water treatment device according to various embodiments. FIG. 11 illustrates a part of a cross-section along line C-C' of FIG. 5 according to various embodiments.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, a water treatment device (100) of a dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to water treat washing water to be supplied to a sump (70). For example, the water treatment device (100) may be configured to apply a charge to two electrodes to remove ions from the washing water flowing between the two electrodes by adsorbing them onto the electrodes, and to desorb the ions adsorbed onto the electrodes from the electrodes by reversing the electrode voltage so that the washing water softens the water.

[0092] The water treatment device (100) may include a case (101). Components of the water treatment device (100) may be accommodated inside the case (101). The case (101) may form the exterior of the water treatment device (100). The case (101) may include an inlet port (102) for water to flow into the water treatment device (100) and an outlet port (103) for water to be discharged from the water treatment device (100). For example, the inlet port (102) and the outlet port (103) may be arranged to face in different directions.

[0093] For example, the inlet port (102) of the water treatment device (100) can be connected to a water supply source. Water supplied from the water supply source can flow into the water treatment device (100) through the inlet port (102).

[0094] For example, the discharge port (103) of the water treatment device (100) can be connected to the wash water inlet (82) of the case brake (80). Water that has passed through the water treatment device (100) can flow into the case brake (80).

[0095] A water treatment device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a connection inlet (108) that can be connected to a wash water outlet (83) of a case brake (80). The water treatment device (100) may include a connection outlet (109) that can be connected to a tank inlet (92) of a water tank (90). Wash water flowing in through the connection inlet (108) may be discharged through the connection outlet (109). The flow path connecting the connection inlet (108) and the connection outlet (109) may be partitioned from the flow path connecting the inlet port (102) and the discharge port (103). The connection inlet (108) and the connection outlet (109) may be omitted, and the case brake (80) may be directly connected to the water tank (90).

[0096] The water treatment device (100) may include a receiving portion (111) provided on a path through which water supplied through an inlet port (102) flows to a deionization module (120). The receiving portion (111) may be provided to receive a regeneration material (190, see FIG. 11) for removing ions adsorbed on the deionization module (120).

[0097] For example, the water treatment device (100) may include a supply opening (113) for communicating the outside of the case (101) and the receiving portion (111). The supply opening (113) may be provided to introduce a regenerative material (190) into the receiving portion (111). For example, the supply opening (113) may be opened toward the inside of the tub (12).

[0098] The water treatment device (100) may include a supply cover (115) for opening and closing a supply opening (113). The supply cover (115) may be detachably mounted on the case (101) of the water treatment device (100). When the supply cover (115) is mounted on the case (101) to close the supply opening (113), the supply cover (115) may be located inside the tub (12).

[0099] A water treatment device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a receiving portion (111) capable of receiving a regeneration material (190) for removing ions adsorbed on a deionization module (120), so a separate device (such as a water tank and / or a pump) for supplying the regeneration material (190) to the deionization module (120) can be omitted.

[0100] The water treatment device (100) may include a guide section (130) for guiding water from a receiving section (111) to a deionization module (120). For example, water passing through the receiving section (111) may flow upward inside the guide section (130) and then have its direction changed to flow downward. For example, a guide plate (132) extending in an upward and downward direction may be provided inside the guide section (130).

[0101] Referring to FIG. 7, the water treatment device (100) may include an air hole (131) for communicating the inside and outside of the guide section (130). For example, the air hole (131) may be located at the top of the guide section (130). For example, the air hole (131) may be located at a position higher than the inlet port (102). The air hole (131) may be provided so that air inside the guide section (130) can be discharged to the outside of the guide section (130).

[0102] In a water treatment device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a supply opening (113) can be opened and closed by a supply cover (115) to introduce a regenerative material (190) into a receiving portion (111). As the supply opening (113) is opened and closed by the supply cover (115), air can be introduced into the interior of the case (101) of the water treatment device (100). As the air inside the guide portion (130) is configured to be discharged to the outside of the guide portion (130) by means of an air hole (131), the water treatment device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can reduce the formation of an air pocket inside the guide portion (130). As the internal air of the guide section (130) is configured to be discharged to the outside of the guide section (130) by means of an air hole (131), the water treatment device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can reduce the supply of air along with water to the deionization module (120).

[0103] The water treatment device (100) may include a deionization module (120) capable of adsorbing ionic substances contained in water supplied through an inlet port (102). The deionization module (120) may include a capacitive deionization (CDI) module in which a plurality of electrodes (121) are stacked.

[0104] The deionization module (120) can be placed inside the case (101). For example, the deionization module (120) may have a cylindrical shape with a hollow (106) formed in the central part. The deionization module (120) may be configured to allow water to pass through.

[0105] Voltage may be applied to each of the two electrodes (121) provided on both sides of the deionization module (120). For example, the electrode (121) provided on the first side of the deionization module (120) may be a positive electrode, and the electrode (121) provided on the second side opposite to the first side of the deionization module (120) may be a negative electrode. For example, the electrode (121) provided on the first side of the deionization module (120) may be a negative electrode, and the electrode (121) provided on the second side opposite to the first side of the deionization module (120) may be a positive electrode.

[0106] The deionization module (120) may include an electrode (121), an ion exchange membrane (122), and a spacer (123). The deionization module (120) may have a structure in which the electrode (121), the ion exchange membrane (122), and the spacer (123) are stacked in a predetermined order.

[0107] For example, the electrode (121), the ion exchange membrane (122), and the spacer (123) may each have a thin plate or sheet shape. For example, the electrode (121), the ion exchange membrane (122), and the spacer (123) may each have a hollow space on the inside.

[0108] For example, the deionization module (120) may include a bipolar type capacitive deionization device. Electrode terminals may be connected to two electrodes (121) provided on both sides of the deionization module (120) to apply voltage. Dielectric polarization may occur at each of the plurality of electrodes (121) provided on the inside of the deionization module (120). Accordingly, the first surface of each of the plurality of electrodes (121) may have a large amount of positive charge and act as a positive electrode, and the second surface opposite to the first surface of each of the plurality of electrodes (121) may have a large amount of negative charge and act as a negative electrode.

[0109] A plurality of electrodes (121) may include a first electrode (121a) and a second electrode (121b). One surface of the first electrode (121a) and one surface of the second electrode (121b) may be arranged to face each other. One of the surfaces of the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b) may act as a positive electrode, and the other may act as a negative electrode. Accordingly, an electric field may be formed between the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b). Below, an embodiment in which one surface of the first electrode (121a) acts as a positive electrode and one surface of the second electrode (121b) acts as a negative electrode will be described.

[0110] The ion exchange membrane (122) may include a cation exchange membrane (122a) and an anion exchange membrane (122b). The cation exchange membrane (122a) may be configured to allow cations to pass through, and the anion exchange membrane (122b) may be configured to allow anions to pass through. The cation exchange membrane (122a) may be attached to one side of a second electrode (121b) acting as a negative electrode, and the anion exchange membrane (122b) may be attached to one side of a first electrode (121a) acting as a positive electrode. However, the ion exchange membrane (122) may be omitted.

[0111] A spacer (123) may be placed between a cation exchange membrane (122a) and an anion exchange membrane (122b). The spacer (123) may be configured to allow water to pass through its interior. For example, the spacer (123) may include a mesh material. However, there are no specific restrictions on the material of the spacer (123).

[0112] Water can pass through the deionization module (120) by flowing inside the spacer (123). Cations contained in the water can be adsorbed on one side of the second electrode (121b) acting as a negative electrode, and anions contained in the water can be adsorbed on one side of the first electrode (121a) acting as a positive electrode. Each of the cation exchange membrane (122a) and the anion exchange membrane (122b) can facilitate the capture of cations and anions. Additionally, each of the cation exchange membrane (122a) and the anion exchange membrane (122b) can limit the adsorption of cations or anions on one side of the first electrode (121a) or one side of the second electrode (121b) during the regeneration of the deionization module (120).

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the method of purifying water by the deionization module (120) and the method of regenerating the deionization module (120) are described. For convenience of explanation, the cation exchange membrane (122a), the anion exchange membrane (122b), and the spacer (123) are omitted from the drawings.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 8, as an adsorption voltage is applied to the deionization module (120), one side of the first electrode (121a) can act as an anode, and one side of the second electrode (121b) can act as a cathode. At this time, when water moves between the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b) which are spaced apart from each other, ionic substances contained in the water can move to the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b) by electrical attraction. Accordingly, ionic substances having a negative charge can be adsorbed on the first electrode (121a), and ionic substances having a positive charge can be adsorbed on the second electrode (121b). Therefore, water passing through the deionization module (120) may not contain ionic substances or may contain a very small amount of ionic substances.

[0115] As water treatment processes are continuously performed, if ionic substances continue to accumulate on the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b), the electric field formed between the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b) may weaken. If the electric field weakens, ionic substances are not easily adsorbed onto the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b), so the adsorption capacity of the deionization module (120) may decrease. To restore the adsorption performance of the deionization module (120), a regeneration process or a scale removal process may be performed.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 10, in a water treatment device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when a regeneration process is required, a regeneration material (190) for removing scale from a deionization module (120) can be introduced into a receiving portion (111). As the supply cover (115) is separated from the case (101), a supply opening (113) can be opened. The regeneration material (190) can be introduced into the receiving portion (111) through the opened supply opening (113). For example, a user can separate the supply cover (115) located inside the tub (12) and introduce the regeneration material (190) into the supply opening (113) through the inside of the tub (12). For example, the regeneration material (190) may include an acidic solution for removing scale from a deionization module (120). For example, the acidic solution may include a citric acid solution.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 9, in order to restore the adsorption capacity of the deionization module (120), a regeneration voltage having a polarity opposite to the adsorption voltage can be applied to the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b). Due to the application of the regeneration voltage, one side of the first electrode (121a) can act as a negative electrode, and one side of the second electrode (121b) can act as a positive electrode. Accordingly, ionic substances attached to the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b) can be separated from the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b).

[0118] A water treatment device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure has a structure that can be improved by providing a receiving section (111) capable of receiving a regenerative material (190) and a deionization module (120) on a water flow path through which water flows in through an inlet port (102) and is discharged through an outlet port (103). The water treatment device (100) can perform a deionization process without introducing the regenerative material (190) into the receiving section (111), and can perform a regeneration process or a scale removal process with the regenerative material (190) introduced into the receiving section (111).

[0119] Additionally, even when no voltage is applied to the deionization module (120) and thus no dielectric polarization occurs at the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b), ionic substances can be separated from the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b). In this case, since neither one side of the first electrode (121a) nor one side of the second electrode (121b) acts as a positive or negative electrode, the electric field between the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b) can disappear, and as a result, ionic substances can be separated from the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b).

[0120] The ionic substances separated from the first electrode (121a) and the second electrode (121b) can be discharged to the outside along with water. Through this, the adsorption capacity of the deionization module (120) can be restored.

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 11, water from which ionized substances have been removed in the deionization module (120) can flow through the hollow (106) to the drainage channel (107). The water passing through the drainage channel (107) can be discharged to the outside of the water treatment device (100) through the discharge port (103).

[0122] FIG. 12 illustrates the connection relationships of components related to the flow of washing water in a dishwasher according to various embodiments.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 12, a dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to supply water from a water source to a case brake (80). For example, the wash water inlet (82) of the case brake (80) may be connected to a water source. For example, the wash water outlet (83) of the case brake (80) may be connected to an inlet port (102) of a water treatment device (100). Water discharged from the case brake (80) may flow into the water treatment device (100).

[0124] For example, the tank inlet (92) of the water tank (90) can be connected to the discharge port (103) of the water treatment device (100). For example, the tank outlet (93) of the water tank (90) can be connected to the sump (70).

[0125] Referring to FIG. 12, a dishwasher (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured such that water supplied from a water source passes through a case brake (80), undergoes a deionization process in a water treatment device (100), and is supplied to a sump (70) through a water tank (90). For example, the water tank (90) may be omitted, and the discharge port (103) of the water treatment device (100) may be connected to the sump (70).

[0126] A dishwasher according to an exemplary embodiment comprises a tub, a spray unit including a nozzle arranged to spray wash water inside the tub, a sump arranged to receive wash water to be supplied to the spray unit, and a water treatment device for water treatment of wash water to be supplied to the sump. The water treatment device comprises a case including an inlet port and an outlet port, a deionization module including an electrode capable of adsorbing ionic substances contained in water supplied through the inlet port, and a receiving portion including a chamber arranged on a flow path through which water supplied through the inlet port flows to the deionization module, the receiving portion being capable of receiving a regeneration material for removing ions adsorbed on the deionization module.

[0127] The above case may include a supply opening configured to introduce the regenerative material into the receiving portion and provided to be open toward the interior of the tub.

[0128] The above water treatment device may include a supply cover configured to open and close the supply opening.

[0129] The above supply cover may be located inside the tub.

[0130] The water treatment device may include a guide configured to guide water from the receiving portion to the deionization module. The guide may include an air hole configured to communicate the inside of the guide with the outside of the guide.

[0131] The above air hole may be located at the top of the above guide.

[0132] The above air hole may be located at a higher position than the above inlet port.

[0133] The dishwasher may further include a case brake configured to reduce backflow of wash water flowing into the sump.

[0134] The inlet port of the water treatment device may be connected to a water supply source. The discharge port of the water treatment device may be connected to the wash water inlet of the case brake.

[0135] The flush water inlet of the above case brake can be connected to a water supply source. The flush water outlet of the above case brake can be connected to the inlet port of the above water treatment device.

[0136] The dishwasher may further include a water tank configured to store washing water treated by the water treatment device.

[0137] The above case may include a connection inlet connected to a wash water outlet of the case brake, and a connection outlet connected to a tank inlet of the water tank.

[0138] The tank inlet of the above water tank can be connected to the flush water outlet of the above case break. The tank outlet of the above water tank can be connected to the above sump.

[0139] The tank inlet of the water tank can be connected to the discharge port of the water treatment device. The tank outlet of the water tank can be connected to the sump.

[0140] The case brake may include a drain inlet configured to allow water discharged from the sump to flow in, and a drain outlet configured to allow water flowing in through the drain inlet to be discharged from the case brake.

[0141] A dishwasher according to an exemplary embodiment comprises a tub, a spray unit arranged to spray wash water inside the tub, a sump arranged to receive wash water to be supplied to the spray unit, and a water treatment device for water treatment of wash water to be supplied to the sump. The water treatment device comprises a case including an inlet port, an outlet port, and a supply opening that opens toward the interior of the tub; a deionization module capable of adsorbing ionic substances contained in water supplied through the inlet port; a receiving portion arranged on a flow path through which water supplied through the inlet port flows to the deionization module, the receiving portion capable of receiving a regeneration material for removing ions adsorbed on the deionization module; and a guide portion for guiding water from the receiving portion to the deionization module, the guide portion including an air hole located at a position higher than the inlet port.

[0142] The above water treatment device may include a supply cover for opening and closing the supply opening.

[0143] The dishwasher may further include a case brake for reducing backflow of wash water flowing into the sump, and a water tank capable of storing wash water treated by the water treatment device.

[0144] The inlet port of the water treatment device may be connected to a water supply source. The discharge port of the water treatment device may be connected to the wash water inlet of the case brake.

[0145] The tank inlet of the above water tank can be connected to the flush water outlet of the above case break. The tank outlet of the above water tank can be connected to the above sump.

[0146] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the structure of the dishwasher can be improved as the water treatment device includes a deionization module and a receiving portion capable of accommodating a regenerative material.

[0147] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs.

[0148] Specific embodiments have been illustrated and described above. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and those skilled in the art may make various modifications without departing from the essence of the technical concept of the invention included in the following claims.

Claims

1. Tub; A spray unit including a nozzle arranged to spray cleaning water inside the above tub; A sump arranged to receive washing water to be supplied to the above-mentioned spray unit; and A water treatment device for treating wash water to be supplied to the sump above; including, The above water treatment device is, A case including an inlet port and an outlet port; A deionization module comprising an electrode capable of adsorbing ionic substances contained in water supplied through the above-mentioned inlet port; and A dishwasher comprising: a receiving portion including a chamber provided on a path through which water supplied through the inlet port flows to the deionization module, and a receiving portion capable of receiving a regeneration material for removing ions adsorbed on the deionization module.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above case is a dishwasher configured to introduce the regenerative material into the receiving portion and includes a supply opening that opens toward the interior of the tub.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above water treatment device is a dishwasher comprising a supply cover configured to open and close the supply opening.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above supply cover is a dishwasher located inside the tub.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above water treatment device includes a guide configured to guide water from the receiving portion to the deionization module, and A dishwasher comprising an air hole configured to connect the inside of the guide with the outside of the guide.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above air hole is a dishwasher located at the top of the above guide.

7. In Paragraph 5, A dishwasher in which the above air hole is located at a higher position than the above inlet port.

8. In Paragraph 1, A dishwasher further comprising a case brake configured to reduce backflow of washing water flowing into the sump.

9. In Paragraph 8, The inlet port of the above-mentioned water treatment device is connected to a water supply source, and The discharge port of the above water treatment device is a dishwasher connected to the wash water inlet of the above case brake.

10. In Paragraph 8, The flush water inlet of the above case brake is connected to a water supply source, and The washing water outlet of the above case brake is a dishwasher connected to the inlet port of the above water treatment device.

11. In Paragraph 8, A dishwasher further comprising a water tank configured to store washing water treated in the above-mentioned water treatment device.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above case is, A connection inlet connected to the flush water outlet of the above case brake; and A dishwasher comprising a connection outlet connected to the tank inlet of the above water tank.

13. In Paragraph 11, The tank inlet of the above water tank is connected to the flush water outlet of the above case brake, and The tank outlet of the above water tank is a dishwasher connected to the above sump.

14. In Paragraph 11, The tank inlet of the above water tank is connected to the discharge port of the above water treatment device, and The tank outlet of the above water tank is a dishwasher connected to the above sump.

15. In Paragraph 8, The above case brake is, A drain inlet configured to allow water discharged from the sump to flow in; and A dishwasher comprising a drain outlet configured such that water flowing in through the drain inlet is discharged from the case brake.

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