IT201900010491A1 - HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES FOR WASHING ITEMS SUCH AS TABLEWARE OR CUTLERY - Google Patents

Description

DESCRIPTION

attached to a patent application for an INDUSTRIAL INVENTION PATENT entitled:

“APPLIANCE FOR THE WASHING OF ARTICLES

WHICH TABLEWARE OR CUTLERY "

FIELD OF THE TROVATO

The present invention relates to a household appliance for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type.

The invention also relates to a method for engaging a condenser to a tank for an appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type.

STATE OF THE ART

Dishwashing appliances of the heat pump type are known, which usually have a lower energy consumption than dishwashing appliances which do not have a heat pump circuit.

A known patent document relating to a household appliance for washing dishes of the heat pump type is represented by European patent application no. EP0862889A2. EP0862889A2 discloses an appliance for washing dishes equipped with a heat pump, the circuit of which has an architecture that saves energy. However, the architecture of the heat pump circuit proposed by EP0862889A2 does not ensure optimal heating of the washing fluid.

PURPOSE OF THE INVENTION

The purpose of the present invention is therefore to solve at least one of the drawbacks or limitations referred to in the state of the art.

A first objective of the present invention is to improve the architecture of the heat pump circuit of a household appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a household appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type which ensures optimal and efficient heating of the washing fluid.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a household appliance for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type which allows rapid heating of the washing fluid.

Another purpose of the invention is to make available an appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type that allows to speed up or minimize the transients aimed at reaching the operating conditions of the appliance.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an electric household appliance for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type which is efficient and effective. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide a household appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type suitable for implementing washing cycles in an efficient and effective way, in particular from the point of view of the energy consumption of the appliance.

An additional object of the present invention is to provide a household appliance for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the compact type with heat pump.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method for engaging a condenser to a tank for a household appliance for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type which ensures optimal heating of the washing fluid.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a method for engaging a condenser to a tank for a household appliance for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type which allows to assemble and manufacture a household appliance in a quick, simple and effective way.

An additional purpose of the invention is to illustrate a method for engaging a condenser to a tank for an appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type that allows for the creation of a compact and compact household appliance.

The further purposes indicated above with reference to the household appliance for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type are also applicable to the method of engaging a condenser to a tank for an household appliance for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type.

These objects and others besides, which will become more apparent from the following description, are substantially achieved by a household appliance for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type, by a method for engaging a condenser to a tank for a household appliance for the washing of articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type and by a method of manufacturing a household appliance for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type in accordance with one or more of the appended claims and, in addition or alternatively, with one or more of the following aspects.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the invention are described below.

In a 1st aspect, a household appliance is provided for washing items such as crockery or cutlery comprising:

- a tank defining a washing chamber adapted to receive said articles, - at least one sprinkler configured to deliver a washing fluid into the washing chamber,

- a heat pump configured to operate using a process fluid and equipped with at least:

or an evaporator at which the process fluid absorbs heat from a fluid, optionally from the washing fluid,

or a condenser at which the process fluid transfers heat to a fluid, optionally to the washing fluid,

o a circuit for the circulation of the process fluid fluid-dynamically connecting the condenser and the evaporator and configured to allow the circulation of process fluid between the evaporator and the condenser,

in which the condenser develops at least partially in contact with the tank. In a 2nd aspect according to the 1st aspect, the household appliance further comprises a support element engaged in correspondence with a lower portion of the tank, the condenser being mounted to the support element or being embedded, for example by co-molding, in the support element.

In a 3rd aspect according to the 1st or 2nd aspect, the condenser is configured to transfer heat to at least one of:

- the washing fluid, the condenser being placed along a washing circuit of the appliance,

- a drying fluid suitable for drying items such as crockery or cutlery previously washed, the condenser being arranged along a drying circuit of the appliance.

In a 4th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the condenser being arranged both along the washing circuit and along the drying circuit and being configured to transfer heat, for example in different operating phases, to the washing fluid and to the drying fluid.

In a 5th aspect in accordance with any of the previous aspects, the evaporator is configured to absorb heat from at least one of:

- the washing fluid, the evaporator being placed along a washing circuit of the appliance,

- a drying fluid suitable for drying items, such as crockery or cutlery, previously washed, the condenser being arranged along a drying circuit of the appliance.

In a 6th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the evaporator is arranged both along the washing circuit and along the drying circuit and being configured to absorb heat, for example in different operating phases, from the washing fluid and from the drying fluid.

In a 7th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the condenser is engaged to the tank at a lower portion of the tank. In an 8th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the tank comprises a bottom equipped with an internal surface facing the washing chamber and an external surface, the condenser facing the, or developing near or in correspondence with the surface. of the bottom of the tank.

In a 9th aspect according to any one of the foregoing aspects, the household appliance comprises a washing fluid collection sump in fluid communication with the tub, the washing fluid collection sump being configured to collect washing fluid at the same time. in order to evacuate it from the washing chamber, the condenser developing at least partially around the sump for collecting the washing fluid.

In a 10th aspect in accordance with the 9th aspect, the washing fluid collection well has an access mouth having a closed path profile and adapted to allow the washing fluid to access from the washing chamber to the collection well. of washing fluid, the condenser developing perimeter with respect to the closed path profile of said access mouth.

In an 11th aspect in accordance with the 10th aspect, the closed-path profile of the access mouth has a plurality of sides or portions transversal to each other, the condenser comprising a plurality of branches, at least one branch of said plurality of branches being arranged in proximity to each side or section of the closed-path profile of the access mouth.

In a 12th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the tank comprises a bottom and a lateral wall transversal to the bottom, the bottom of the tank comprising an outflow portion of the washing fluid configured to facilitate the outflow of the washing fluid from the washing chamber to the washing fluid collection sump, the washing fluid outflow portion being arranged between the side wall and the washing fluid collection sump, the condenser being at least partially arranged or engaged at the outflow portion of washing fluid.

In a 13th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the capacitor comprises a plurality of branches arranged in parallel with each other, the branches of said plurality of branches presenting or being configured to present at least one of: the same pressure drop, the same flow rate of process fluid, the same length, the same internal diameter, the same external diameter, the same conformation, the same overall dimensions.

In a 14th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the condenser has at least one end connected fluid-dynamically to the circuit for the circulation of the process fluid by means of a flexible connection element. In a 15th aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the heat pump further comprises:

o a compressor configured to move the process fluid in the circuit for the circulation of the process fluid,

or at least one flexible connecting element fluid-dynamically connecting the condenser and the compressor.

In a 16th aspect according to the 15th aspect, the compressor develops in correspondence with a first section of the heat pump.

In a 17th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the heat pump further comprises:

- an expansion member, such as a coil or a lamination valve, arranged between the condenser and the evaporator, the expansion member optionally developing in correspondence with a first section of the heat pump, the expansion member being configured to determine an expansion of the process fluid,

- optionally, a further flexible connection element connecting the compressor and the expansion member fluid-dynamically.

In an 18th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the condenser develops at least partially at a higher altitude than a height of the evaporator, the heights of the condenser and of the evaporator being defined with reference to a supporting portion of the appliance intended to come into contact with a support surface for the appliance or with reference to a support surface for the appliance.

In a 19th aspect in accordance with any of the previous aspects, the appliance also comprises a base arranged below the tank, the evaporator being arranged in the base.

In a 20th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the evaporator is defined in a first section of the heat pump developing at the base and the condenser is defined in a second section of the heat pump, the second section being defined above the first section.

In a 21st aspect according to any of the previous aspects, the appliance also comprises a heater, such as an electric resistance, configured to heat the washing fluid.

In a 22nd aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the household appliance comprises a washing circuit and a pump configured to move the washing fluid along the washing circuit, the heater being disposed in proximity to the pump or being engaged in the pump or being wrapped around the pump.

In a 23rd aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the pump develops at least partially in the collecting sump of the washing fluid.

In a 24th aspect, a household appliance is provided for drying items such as crockery or cutlery comprising a tub defining a drying chamber suitable for accommodating said items and a bottom, the bottom comprises:

- at least a first portion associated with at least one heating element e

- at least a second portion, for example defined in proximity to the first portion, associated with at least one cooling element.

In a 25th aspect in accordance with the 24th, the heating element comprises a condenser of a heat pump circuit.

In a 26th aspect according to the 24th or 25th aspect, the cooling element comprises an evaporator of a heat pump circuit.

In a 27 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 24 ° to 26 °, the appliance is of the heat pump type, the evaporator and the condenser being part of the same heat pump circuit of the appliance.

In a 28th aspect in accordance with any of the 24th to 27th aspects, the household appliance is a household appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type in accordance with any one of the 1st aspects. 23 and / or the attached claims of household appliance.

In a 29th aspect in accordance with any of the 24th through 28th aspects, the tub defines both the washing chamber and the drying chamber.

In a 30th aspect, a method is provided for engaging a condenser to a tub for a heat pump type household appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery, the household appliance optionally being in accordance with any one of the aspects from 1 ° to 29 ° and / or to any of the appended appliance claims, the method comprising at least the steps of:

- arrange a tank, optionally for an appliance for washing dishes of the heat pump type, the tank defining a washing chamber suitable for receiving items, such as dishes or cutlery, to be washed, - prepare a condenser,

- engage the condenser at least partially in contact with the tank. In a 31st aspect according to the 30th aspect, setting up a capacitor includes:

- prepare a support element, optionally the support element being in plastic material,

- mount the condenser to the support element,

- engage the support element to the tank, optionally the engagement of the support element to the tank being made by means of threaded elements.

In a 32nd aspect according to the 30th or 31st aspect, in which:

- providing a capacitor comprises providing a capacitor comprising a plurality of branches,

- providing a support element comprises providing a support element, optionally made of plastic material, having grooves counter-shaped at least partially to a profile of the condenser and configured to house respective branches of the condenser,

- mounting the capacitor to the support element comprises positioning each branch of said plurality of branches in correspondence with a respective groove of the support element.

In a 33rd aspect according to any of the 30th to 32nd aspects, setting up a capacitor includes:

- prepare a support element, optionally the support element being an element in tar sheet,

- drown the capacitor in the support element,

- engage the support element to the tank.

In a 34th aspect in accordance with the 33rd aspect, drowning the capacitor in the support element includes co-molding the condenser and the support element.

In a 35th aspect according to the 34th aspect:

- co-molding the condenser and the support element includes co-molding the condenser on a tar sheet element,

- engaging the support element to the tank includes engaging the tar sheet element to the tank, for example by gluing. In a 36 ° aspect according to any of the 30 ° to 35 ° aspects, engaging the condenser at least partially in contact with the tank comprises at least one of the following steps:

- arrange the condenser along a washing circuit of the appliance, - arrange the condenser along a drying circuit of the appliance,

- place the condenser along a washing circuit of the appliance and along a drying circuit of the appliance.

In a 37th aspect according to any one of the 30 ° to 36 ° aspects, engaging the condenser at least partially in contact with the tank comprises engaging the condenser to the tank at a lower portion of the tank. In a 38 ° aspect according to any one of the aspects from 30 ° to 37 °, the tank comprises a bottom equipped with an internal surface facing the washing chamber and an external surface, engaging the condenser at least partially in contact with the tank comprises arranging the condenser with respect to the bottom of the tank in such a way that the condenser faces the, or develops near or in correspondence with, the external surface of the bottom of the tank. In a 39th aspect according to any of the 30th to 38th aspects, the method comprises the steps of:

- prepare a compressor, a pump and, optionally, an expansion element,

- prepare a base,

- place the compressor and pump in the base and, optionally, the expansion organ.

In a 40 ° aspect according to any of the aspects from 30 ° to 39 °, preparing a tank includes assembling the condenser to a base of the appliance.

In a 41st aspect in accordance with the 40th aspect, assembling the condenser to a base of the appliance also includes connecting the condenser and the base using at least one flexible connection element.

In a 42nd aspect according to the 41st aspect, connecting the condenser and the base by at least one flexible connecting element comprises connecting the condenser and the compressor by means of a flexible connecting element.

In a 43 ° aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from 30 ° to 42 °, preparing a tub comprises providing a box-like body, optionally for a heat pump type household appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery, at the inside the box-like body a tub is housed defining a washing chamber and adapted to receive items, such as crockery or cutlery, to be washed. In a 44th aspect according to any one of the 30th to 43rd aspects, the method comprises a step of setting up a heat pump configured to operate by a process fluid.

In a 45th aspect according to the 44th aspect, setting up a heat pump includes:

- prepare an evaporator,

- prepare a capacitor,

- prepare a compressor,

- set up an expansion body,

- fluid-dynamically connect the evaporator, the condenser, the compressor and the expansion member along a circuit for the circulation of process fluid.

In a 46th aspect according to any one of the 30th to 45th aspects, the method comprises a step of preparing a box-like body.

In a 47th aspect in accordance with the 46th aspect, providing a box-shaped body comprises providing a heat pump configured to operate by means of a process fluid at least partially housed in the box-shaped body.

In a 48th aspect according to the 46th or 47th aspect, preparing a box body includes:

- providing a box-like body defining a washing chamber suitable for receiving items, such as crockery or cutlery, to be washed,

- prepare a tub,

- engage the tank inside the box-like body.

In a 49th aspect according to the 48th aspect:

- preparing a tank includes:

o prepare a well to collect the washing fluid, e

o placing the washing fluid collection well and the tank in fluid communication in such a way that the washing fluid collection well can collect washing fluid in order to evacuate it from the washing chamber,

- engaging the condenser at least partially in contact with the tank comprises arranging the condenser at least partially around the sump for collecting the washing fluid.

In a 50th aspect according to the 49th aspect:

- providing a well for collecting the washing fluid comprises preparing a well for collecting the washing fluid having an access mouth having a profile with a closed path and able to allow the access of the washing fluid from the washing chamber to the collecting well of washing fluid,

- engaging the condenser at least partially in contact with the tank comprises arranging the condenser perimeter with respect to the closed path profile of said access mouth.

In a 51st aspect according to the 50th aspect, the closed-path profile of the access mouth has a plurality of sides or sections transversal to each other, the condenser comprising a plurality of branches, the step of arranging the condenser perimeter with respect to the profile closed path of said access mouth comprising a step of arranging at least one branch of said plurality of branches in proximity to each side or section of the closed path profile of the access mouth.

In a 52 ° aspect according to any one of the 30 ° to 51 ° aspects, the tank comprises a bottom and a lateral wall transversal to the bottom, the bottom of the tank comprising an outflow portion of washing fluid configured to facilitate the outflow of the washing fluid from the washing chamber to the washing fluid collection sump, the portion of the washing fluid outflow being arranged between the side wall and the washing fluid collection sump, the step of engaging the condenser at least partially to contact with the tub comprising engaging the condenser at the washing fluid outflow portion or at least partially arranging the condenser in correspondence with the washing fluid outflow portion.

In a 53rd aspect according to any one of the 30th to 52nd aspects, the method comprises the following steps:

- prepare an evaporator,

- arrange the evaporator at a lower altitude than the one at which the condenser is located or arrange the condenser at a higher altitude than the one at which the evaporator is arranged,

the heights of the evaporator and condenser being defined with reference to a support portion of a box-shaped body or appliance intended to come into contact with a support surface of the box-shaped body or appliance or with reference to a support surface the box body or the appliance.

In a 54th aspect in accordance with the 53rd aspect, arranging the evaporator at a lower altitude than a height at which the condenser is arranged comprises providing a base to which an evaporator is engaged and, optionally, engaging the base to a portion lower part of the box-like body in such a way that the evaporator develops at least partially below the tank. In a 55th aspect in accordance with the 53rd or 54th aspect, the phase of arranging the evaporator at a lower altitude than a height at which the condenser is arranged is subsequent to the phase of engagement of the condenser at least partially in contact with the tub.

In a 56 ° aspect according to any one of the aspects from 30 ° to 55 °, place the evaporator at a lower altitude than a height at which the condenser is located or arrange the condenser at a higher altitude than a height at which the evaporator is arranged comprises at least one of the following phases:

- arrange the evaporator in a base of the appliance, for example in correspondence with a first section of a heat pump,

- place the condenser in correspondence with a second section of the heat pump.

In a 57th aspect in accordance with the 56th aspect, the phase of arranging the evaporator in the base is subsequent to the phase of arranging the condenser in correspondence with a second section of the heat pump.

In a 58th aspect according to any one of the 53rd to 57th aspects, setting up an evaporator includes:

- prepare an evaporator and a base and engage the evaporator to the base or prepare a base to which an evaporator is engaged, optionally the evaporator being housed in the base,

- engaging the base with a lower portion of the box-like body or in correspondence with a space defined below the tub, optionally in such a way as to make a first section of a heat pump of the household appliance at least partially defined below with respect to a bottom of the tub, the heat pump being configured to operate by means of a process fluid.

In a 59 ° aspect according to any one of the aspects from 30 ° to 58 °, engaging the condenser at least partially in contact with the tank comprises positioning the condenser above a base, optionally in such a way as to make a second section of the pump of the appliance heat at least partially defined above the bottom of the tub.

In a 60 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 30 ° to 59 °, the method also includes a step of preparing a circuit for the circulation of the process fluid fluid-dynamically connecting the condenser and the evaporator.

In a 61st aspect according to the 60th aspect, the circuit for the circulation of process fluid is configured to allow the circulation of fluid between the first section and the second section.

In a 62nd aspect according to any one of the 30th to 61st aspects, the method comprises the steps of:

- prepare a base in which a compressor and an evaporator are housed, optionally an expansion member being also housed in the base,

- fluid-dynamically connect the condenser to the compressor and / or evaporator using a flexible connection element.

In a 63rd aspect according to any one of the 30th to 62nd aspects, the method further comprises a step of engaging at least one flexible connecting element to the capacitor.

In a 64 ° aspect according to any one of the 30 ° to 63 ° aspects, the method further comprises a step of fluid-dynamically closing a circuit for the circulation of the process fluid by means of at least one flexible connecting element.

In a 65th aspect according to the 64th aspect, the step of engaging said at least one flexible connection element to the condenser comprises the step of fluid-dynamically closing a circuit for the circulation of the process fluid by means of at least one flexible connection element.

In a 66 ° aspect according to any one of the 30 ° to 65 ° aspects, the method comprises a step of setting up a compressor, optionally at the first section, the compressor being configured to move the process fluid in the circuit to the circulation of the heat pump process fluid.

In a 67th aspect according to the 66th aspect, the method comprises a step of fluid dynamically connecting the condenser and the compressor by means of at least one flexible connecting element.

In a 68th aspect according to the 67th aspect, the step of fluid-dynamically closing a circuit for the circulation of the process fluid by means of at least one flexible connecting element comprises the step of fluid-dynamically connecting the condenser and the compressor by means of said at least one connecting element. flexible connection.

In a 69th aspect according to any one of the 30th to 68th aspects, the method further comprises a step of loading process fluid into the compressor, the step of loading process fluid into the compressor being subsequent to the step of connecting fluid dynamically the condenser and the compressor by means of said at least one flexible connecting element.

In a 70th aspect according to any one of the 30th to 69th aspects, the method further comprises a step of setting up a heater, such as an electrical resistance, configured to heat the washing fluid.

In a 71 ° aspect according to any one of the aspects from 30 ° to 70 °, the method further comprises a step of setting up a pump configured to move a washing fluid, the method comprising at least one of the following steps:

- place the heater near the pump, or

- engage the heater with the pump, or

- wrap the heater around the pump.

In a 72 ° aspect according to any one of the 30 ° to 71 ° aspects, the method is a method of making a dishwashing appliance of the heat pump type.

In a 73rd aspect, a method of making a heat pump type household appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery is provided, the household appliance optionally being in accordance with any of the aspects 1 to 29 and / or to any of the appended claims of household appliance, the method comprising at least the steps of:

- prepare a heat pump configured to operate by means of a process fluid and equipped with an evaporator, a condenser and a circuit for the circulation of the process fluid fluid-dynamically connecting the condenser and the evaporator,

- engage the condenser in a tub of the appliance according to the method according to any of the aspects from 30 ° to 72 ° and / or to any of the attached method claims,

- arrange a sprinkler configured to deliver a washing fluid into a washing chamber defined by the tank,

- prepare a pump configured to move the washing fluid, - place the pump, the sprinkler and the washing chamber in fluid communication in such a way as to define a washing circuit.

In a 74th aspect according to the 72nd aspect, the method further includes the following steps:

- prepare a box-like body,

- at least partially house the tank in the box-shaped body,

- set up a counter,

- engaging the door to the box-shaped body at an access, for example a front access, to the tank so that the door can operate between:

o a closure configuration in which it blocks access to the washing chamber and consequently prevents access to the washing chamber,

o an opening configuration in which it allows access to the washing chamber and consequently allows accessibility to the washing chamber.

In a 75th aspect according to the 73rd or 74th aspect, the method further includes the following steps:

- define a sump for the collection of washing fluid,

- placing the washing fluid collection well and the tank in fluid communication in such a way that the washing fluid collection well can collect washing fluid in order to evacuate it from the washing chamber. In a 76th aspect in accordance with any one of the 73rd to 75th aspects, placing the pump, sprinkler and washing chamber in fluid communication so as to define a washing circuit comprises placing fluid in communication the pump, the sprinkler, the washing chamber and the collection well of the washing fluid in such a way as to define a washing circuit.

In a 77th aspect, a method of manufacturing a household appliance for drying items such as crockery or cutlery is provided, the household appliance optionally being in accordance with any of the aspects from 24 ° to 29 ° and / or to any of the appended household appliance claims, the method comprising the following steps:

- providing a tub defining a drying chamber adapted to receive said articles and comprising a bottom,

- associating a heating element to a first portion of the bottom, - associating a cooling element to a second portion of the bottom, for example defined in proximity to the first portion.

In a 78th aspect according to the 77th aspect, associating a heating element to a first portion of the bottom comprises arranging a condenser at or near the first portion of the bottom or vice versa.

In a 79th aspect according to the 78th aspect, arranging a condenser at or near the first portion of the bottom or vice versa comprises engaging the condenser to a tank according to the method according to the method according to any of the aspects 30 to 72 ° and / or to any of the attached method claims, the step of engaging the condenser at least partially in contact with the tank, providing for engaging the condenser at the first portion of the bottom of the tank.

In an 80 ° aspect according to any one of the 77 ° to 79 ° aspects, associating a cooling element to a second portion of the bottom comprises arranging an evaporator at or near the second first portion of the bottom or vice versa.

In an 81 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 77 ° to 80 °, the method is a method of making an appliance for washing and drying items such as crockery or cutlery.

In an 82 ° aspect according to any one of the 1 ° to 81 ° aspects, the appliance further comprises a basement arranged below the tank and the heat pump further comprises a compressor configured to move the process fluid in the circuit to the circulation of the process fluid and, optionally, an expansion member configured to cause an expansion of the process fluid, the compressor, the evaporator and, optionally, the expansion member being arranged in the base.

In an 83rd aspect in accordance with the 82nd aspect, the base is of the pre-assembled type. In an 84th aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from the 1st to the 83rd, the washing circuit fluid-dynamically connects the pump, the sprinkler and the tank.

In an 85th aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 1st to 84th, the pump is placed between the evaporator and the compressor.

In an 86th aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 1st to 85th, the appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery is an appliance for washing and drying items such as crockery or cutlery. In an 87th aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 1st to 86th, the washing chamber is a washing and / or drying chamber designed to accommodate items, such as crockery or cutlery, to be washed and / or dried.

In an 88th aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from 1st to 87th, the appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery is a dishwasher.

In an 89 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from the 1st to the 88th, the appliance comprises a box-like body housing the tub.

In a 90 ° aspect in accordance with any of the aspects from the 1st to the 89th, the appliance includes at least one fan configured to heat the evaporator and / or to cool the compressor.

In a 91 ° aspect according to the 90 ° aspect, said at least one fan is configured to heat the evaporator using at least part of the compressor heat. In a 92 ° aspect according to any of the aspects from 1 to 90, the appliance also comprises at least one filter configured to filter the washing fluid flowing out of the washing chamber.

In a 93rd aspect in accordance with the 92nd aspect, said at least one filter develops at least partially in the collecting sump of the washing fluid.

In a 94th aspect according to any one of the 1st to 93rd aspects, the bottom of the tank is configured to allow heat exchange between the washing fluid and the process fluid.

In a 95th aspect according to any one of the 1st to 94th aspects, the bottom of the tank is made of thermally conductive material.

In a 96 ° aspect according to any one of the 1st to 94 ° aspects, the tank is made of thermally conductive material.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments and some aspects of the invention will be described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided for indicative purposes only and therefore not limitative in which:

- figure 1 is a perspective view of a household appliance for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type according to an embodiment of the present invention,

- figure 2 is a cross section of the appliance in figure 1, - figure 3 is a bottom view of the appliance in figure 1,

- figure 4 is a lateral cross section of a lower portion of the appliance in figure 1.

DEFINITIONS AND CONVENTIONS

It should be noted that in the present detailed description corresponding parts illustrated in the various figures are indicated with the same numerical references. The figures could illustrate the object of the invention through non-scale representations; therefore, parts and components illustrated in the figures relating to the object of the invention could only concern schematic representations. In the context of this description, the use of terms such as "upper", "above", "lower", "below", "lateral", "laterally", "horizontal", "horizontally", "vertical", "vertically" "," Front "," front "," rear "," rear "and the like refers, unless otherwise specified, to at least one spatial orientation that the object of the invention can normally assume in operating conditions or conditions of use . In this regard, see the attached figures illustrating at least one possible spatial orientation of the object of the invention. Unless otherwise specified, the use of the terms "condition" or "configuration" can be used interchangeably in the context of this discussion.

Here are some definitions that can be used for the purposes of the intelligence of the present invention:

- the expression "washing circuit" means a circuit along which a washing fluid can flow to carry out at least one washing cycle of the appliance,

- the expression "washing fluid" means a fluid, such as a liquid, configured to wash items, such as crockery or cutlery; in particular, the washing fluid comprises water and at least one washing agent dissolved in water,

- the expression "drying circuit" means a circuit along which a drying fluid can circulate to carry out at least one washing cycle of the appliance,

- the expression "drying fluid" means a fluid, in particular air, configured to dry items, such as crockery or cutlery; the drying fluid is typically heated and, licking items such as crockery or cutlery in the drying chamber, removes water in the form of steam from these items,

- the term "heat pump" means any heat pump type apparatus, ie an apparatus that uses the phase change of a process fluid;

- the expression "circuit for the circulation of the process fluid" means the heat pump circuit along which a process fluid can circulate,

- the expression "process fluid" means the operating fluid of the heat pump.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Household appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery

The reference number 1 generally indicates a household appliance for washing items such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type according to the present invention. The appliance 1 has a washing circuit along which a washing fluid can flow in order to wash the items and, in addition or alternatively, a rinsing fluid in order to rinse the items. The washing fluid can be water, to which at least one additive or washing agent (detergent) can be added. The rinsing fluid can be water, to which at least one additive or rinsing agent (rinse aid) can be added. The appliance 1 can optionally also have a drying circuit along which a drying fluid, such as heated air, can circulate in order to dry the items.

The appliance 1 can therefore be adapted to allow both the washing of items such as crockery or cutlery and the drying of such items.

The appliance 1 comprises a tank 2, which defines a washing chamber 2a sized to accommodate items to be washed. The tank 2 has a covering portion 3, a side wall 4 and a bottom 5. The tank 2 can be monolithic; in this embodiment, the covering portion 3, the side wall 4 and the bottom 5 are in one piece. Alternatively, the cover portion 3, the side wall 4 and the bottom 5 can be assembled together to form the tank 2. The tank 2 can be made of thermally conductive material. In particular, the tank 2 can be made by means of a suitably shaped sheet of thermally conductive material.

The covering portion 3 develops in correspondence with an upper portion of the tank 2 and delimits the washing chamber 2a at the top. In essence, the covering portion 3 substantially defines a ceiling of the tank 2.

The side wall 4 of the tank 2 develops in continuity with the covering portion 3. The side wall 4 is transversal to the covering portion 3 and constitutes a skirt of the tank 2 adapted to laterally delimit the washing chamber 2a. The side wall 4 has an upper end to which the cover portion 3 is engaged and a lower end to which the bottom 5 is engaged. The side wall 4 has an access at which it is possible to access the washing chamber 2a . The side wall 4 can comprise a plurality of panels arranged transversely to each other. The side wall 4 can comprise, by way of example, three panels 4a, 4b, 4c which develop without interruption to form a substantially "U" or "C" profile; immediately consecutive panels 4a, 4b, 4c can be arranged orthogonally to each other. The attached figures illustrate a household appliance 1 in which the panels 4a, 4c constitute the sides of the side wall 4 of the tank 2 and the panel 4b is interposed transversely to the sides 4a, 4c to form a back of the side wall 4 delimiting the tank 2 at the rear. In other words, the panel 4b is a rear panel of the tank 2. In further possible embodiments, the side wall 4 can comprise a number of panels different from three.

Continuity with the lower end of the side wall 4 develops the bottom 5 of the tank 2. The bottom 5 of the tank 2 is opposite the cover portion 3 and is arranged in correspondence with a lower portion of the tank 2. The bottom 5 of the tank 2 defines the washing chamber 2a at the bottom. The bottom 5 is equipped with an internal surface 5a facing the washing chamber 2a and an external surface 5b; in operating conditions of the appliance 1, the internal surface 5a of the bottom 5 comes into contact with the washing fluid. The bottom 5 has an outflow portion of the washing fluid 6 adapted to allow the washing fluid to flow out of the washing chamber 2a. The washing fluid outflow portion 6 can advantageously have a shape designed to allow the washing fluid to flow out; for example, the washing fluid outflow portion 6 can have an outflow section which decreases as it proceeds, along a vertical direction, from the lower end of the side wall 4 to a lower terminal end of the bottom 5. The outflow section can be defined as a useful section for the passage of the washing fluid at which the washing fluid can flow. According to a possible embodiment, the bottom 5 can have a substantially funnel shape. The bottom 5 of the tank 2 can be made of thermally conductive material.

The household appliance 1 also comprises a washing fluid collection sump 7, which is in fluid communication with the tank 2. The washing fluid collection sump 7 is configured to collect washing fluid in order to evacuate it from the chamber. washing 2a. For this purpose, the washing fluid collection sump 7 can be arranged immediately consecutively to the washing fluid outflow portion 6 along a path for evacuating the washing fluid from the household appliance 1. The washing fluid collection sump 7 it has an access mouth 7a having a closed path profile, which has a plurality of sides or portions transversal to each other. The access mouth 7a is adapted to allow access of the washing fluid from the washing chamber 2a to the washing fluid collection well 7. In the embodiment illustrated in the attached figures, the washing fluid collection well 7 is arranged on the bottom 5 of the tank 2 and the portion of outflow of washing fluid 6 develops around the sump for collecting the washing fluid 7. The sump for collecting the washing fluid 7 can be a separate component from the bottom 5 of the tank 2 and it can be engaged to the bottom 5 of the tank 2 or, alternatively, it can be in one piece with the bottom 5 of the tank 2.

The household appliance 1 also comprises a pump 8 configured to move the washing fluid along the washing circuit. The pump 8 can develop in the vicinity of the washing fluid collection sump 7.

The household appliance 1 also comprises at least one filter 9 arranged along the washing circuit and configured to filter the washing fluid, for example the washing fluid flowing from the washing chamber 2a. In the embodiment of the attached figures, the filter 9 develops mainly in correspondence with the washing fluid collection well 7 and is configured to filter the washing or rinsing fluid in correspondence with the washing fluid collection well 7.

The household appliance 1 also comprises at least one sprinkler 10 configured to deliver the washing fluid into the washing chamber 2a. The sprinkler develops inside the tank and has a plurality of nozzles configured to deliver washing fluid into the washing chamber 2a. The sprinkler 10 can be rotatably engaged to the tank 2 so as to be able to rotate inside the tank 2 in at least one operating condition of the household appliance 1. The sprinkler 10 is configured to deliver the washing fluid into the washing chamber 2a during its rotation. The sprinkler 10 can be arranged at a lower portion or an upper portion of the tank. Figure 4 shows a sprinkler 10 extending at the lower portion of the tub 2 and facing the bottom 5 of the tub 2. The appliance 1 can also have a second sprinkler 10 extending at an upper portion of the tub 2 and a valve configured to convey the washing fluid selectively to the first sprinkler or to the second sprinkler. Optionally, the valve can be configured to convey the washing fluid simultaneously to the first sprinkler and to the second sprinkler. In a possible embodiment in which the household appliance 1 comprises a first sprinkler extending at the lower portion of the tub 2 and a second sprinkler extending at the upper portion of the tub 2, the household appliance 1 can optionally have a third sprinkler arranged to an intermediate level between a level at which the first sprinkler develops and a height at which the second sprinkler develops. The first sprinkler can face the bottom 5 of the tank 2 and the second sprinkler can face the covering portion 5 of the tank 2.

Within the washing circuit, the sprinkler 10 constitutes a dispensing terminal of washing fluid. In addition to the sprinkler 10, also the pump 8, the washing chamber 2a, the washing liquid outflow portion 6, the washing fluid collection well 7 and the filter 9 are arranged along the washing circuit. The washing circuit receives washing fluid from a source of washing fluid and moves the washing fluid, by means of the pump 8, along the washing circuit. The source of washing fluid is usually external to the appliance 1 and may consist of a water network to which the appliance 1 is fluid dynamically connected, for example by means of a supply pipe. In a washing fluid delivery phase, the pump 8 moves the washing fluid towards the sprinkler 10 or sprinklers 10, through which or through which the washing fluid is delivered into the washing chamber 2a. After carrying out a washing phase or cycle, in a discharge phase the washing fluid is conveyed from the washing fluid outflow portion 6 to the washing fluid collection well 7, in correspondence with which it is filtered by the filter 9 The washing fluid collection sump 7 then conveys the washing fluid towards the outside of the household appliance 1, for example towards a drainage network to which the appliance 1 is fluid-dynamically connected. The household appliance 1 can be fluid-dynamically connected to the drainage network by means of a drain hose engaged in the washing fluid collection sump 7.

The appliance 1 can optionally include at least one drawer configured to house the items. The drawer is configured to allow a user to put away the articles in a phase preceding a phase of washing the articles; for this purpose, the drawer can have a plurality of housings for the articles. The drawer can have a reticular structure provided with a plurality of hollow passage sections suitable for allowing the passage of washing fluid through the drawer. The drawer can be moved, for example by means of suitable guides, between an operating position, in which it develops inside the tank 2 and a loading or unloading position, in which it extends at least partially outside the tank 2. In operating conditions of the appliance 1, the drawer is arranged inside the tank 2. In order to pass from the operating position to the loading or unloading position, the drawer can be removed from the tank 2 and, to carry out the reverse operation, i.e. in order to pass from the loading or unloading position to the operative position, the drawer can be inserted into the tub 2. The appliance 1 can also have a first drawer arranged in correspondence with a lower portion of the tub 2 and a second drawer arranged at an upper portion of the tank 2; the first drawer can face the first sprinkler and the second drawer can face the second sprinkler. In a possible embodiment, between the first drawer and the second drawer the household appliance 1 can provide a third drawer, also extractable from the tank 2 and insertable in the tank 2 in such a way as to be able to operate between an operating position and a position of loading or unloading. The third drawer can be arranged at an intermediate level and included between a level in correspondence with which the first drawer develops and a level in correspondence with which the second drawer develops. Each drawer can have a different size, shape, geometric characteristics or volume so as to be able to house one or more specific types of items such as crockery or cutlery.

The appliance 1 may also include a door arranged with respect to the tub in such a way as to operate between a closing position which blocks access to the washing chamber 2a and an opening position in which it allows access to the washing chamber 2a. The door has an internal surface which, in the closed position of the door, faces the washing chamber 2a and contributes, together with the side wall 4 of the tank 2, to laterally delimit the washing chamber 2a. In operating conditions of the appliance 1, the door is in the closed position and the internal surface comes into contact with the washing fluid.

The household appliance 1 also comprises a base 11 arranged below the tub 2. The base 11 has an internal volume in correspondence with which, as will be detailed below, a plurality of components of the household appliance 1, and in particular of the heat pump of the household appliance 1. As illustrated in Figure 4, the collection sump 7 and the pump 8 can develop at least partially in correspondence with the base 11. The base 11 is typically made of molded plastic material and comprises a plurality of seats formed in one piece in said base 11 for housing functional components of the household appliance 1.

The household appliance 1 can also optionally provide a box-like body defining a housing volume inside which the tub 2 is housed. Optionally, the door can be engaged with the box-like body so as to be movable with respect to the box-like body between the open position and the closed position, and vice versa; by way of example, the door can be hinged to the box-shaped body, for example in correspondence with a lower portion of the box-shaped body, so as to be able to rotate between the open position and the closed position, and vice versa.

The appliance 1 also includes at least a support portion 12 intended to come into contact with a support surface for the appliance 1, such as a floor, on which the appliance 1 is intended to be installed. The support portion can comprise one or more support feet 12.

The appliance 1 also includes a heat pump. The heat pump comprises a compressor 13, an evaporator 14, a condenser 15 and an expansion member 16, which are arranged along a circuit for the circulation of the process fluid, which connects them fluid-dynamically. In the following, for the sake of simplicity, reference will be made to the circuit for the circulation of the process fluid as the heat pump circuit. The heat pump can have a first section, in correspondence with which the compressor 13, the evaporator 14 and the expansion member 16 develop, and a second section, in correspondence with which the condenser 15 develops. it develops at a lower altitude than the one at which the second section develops; in essence, the first section develops mainly or completely below the second section. The heights of the first section and the second section of the heat pump can be defined and calculated with reference to the support portion 12 of the appliance 1 or with reference to the support surface for the appliance 1.

The compressor 13 constitutes the motor part of the heat pump and is configured to move the process fluid in the heat pump circuit. As shown in Figure 4, the compressor 13 can be arranged substantially horizontally inside the base 11.

The evaporator 14 can be arranged along the drying circuit in such a way as to absorb heat from the drying fluid to extract moisture from the air in the form of condensation. The household appliance 1 can have a condensate collection tray positioned below the evaporator 14, in which the drops of condensate can accumulate by percolating by gravity from the evaporator 14. The evaporator 14 can be arranged along the drying circuit a downstream of a drying chamber, which can for example be supplied by the tub and can coincide volumetrically with the washing chamber 2a itself. The evaporator 14 can be of the finned tube type or of the type comprising a plurality of microchannels. As shown in Figure 4, the evaporator 14 can be developed substantially vertically inside the base 11.

The condenser 15 constitutes the section of the heat pump circuit in correspondence with which the process fluid transfers heat to the washing fluid in such a way as to heat the washing fluid. The condenser 15 can be arranged along the washing circuit upstream of the washing chamber 2a. In a possible embodiment, the condenser 15 can also be arranged along the drying circuit in such a way as to transfer heat to the drying fluid. The condenser 15 can be arranged along the drying circuit upstream of a drying chamber, which can for example be supplied by the tank 2 and can coincide volumetrically with the washing chamber 2a itself.

In order to optimize the transmission of heat to the washing fluid, according to the invention, the condenser 15 develops at least partially in contact with the tank 2. The arrangement of the condenser in contact with the tank 2 advantageously allows to guarantee an efficient exchange thermal between the washing fluid and the process fluid, which occurs precisely in correspondence with the tank 2. Furthermore, the arrangement of the condenser 15 at least partially in contact with the tank 2 allows to maximize the transmission of heat to the washing fluid.

The condenser 15 develops in correspondence with a lower portion of the tank 2; for this purpose, in the embodiment of the attached figures, the condenser 15 is engaged at the bottom 5 of the tank 2. The engagement of the condenser 15 at the bottom 5 of the tank 2 advantageously allows to optimize the architecture of the pump circuit. heat. The engagement of the condenser 15 at the bottom 5 of the tank 2 also allows you to optimally manage its overall dimensions and consequently create a compact household appliance 1. The condenser 15 can be engaged at the bottom 5 of the tank 2 in correspondence with the portion of outflow of the washing fluid 6. Providing this arrangement allows the condenser 15 to follow a profile of the bottom 5 of the tank 2 defined in correspondence with the portion of outflow of fluid. 6 and therefore helps to compact the architecture of the heat pump circuit and, consequently, allows the construction of a compact household appliance 1. The condenser 15 is engaged at the bottom 5 of the tank 2 in such a way as not to come into contact with the washing fluid; for this purpose, the condenser 15 can be engaged at or near the external surface 5b of the bottom 5 of the tank 2.

The condenser 15 comprises a plurality of branches, which define a profile of the condenser 15. Upstream and downstream of the branches of the condenser 5, for ease of installation, the household appliance 1 can provide respective collectors joining the extremities of the branches. The succession of branches substantially defines an overall length of the capacitor 15. In the embodiment of the attached figures, the capacitor 15 comprises a plurality of branches arranged in parallel with each other. The capacitor 15 can for example have five branches arranged in parallel with each other; each branch can develop along a serpentine path. By way of example, the serpentine path of each of the five branches can have the same length equal to 3 m or 4 m, and consequently the capacitor 15 can have an overall length of 15 m or 20 m. It is understood that in possible alternative embodiments, the number of branches of the capacitor 15 can be different from five and, in addition or alternatively, the length of the branches can vary. Furthermore, in possible variants, the branches can be arranged in series with each other or in an arrangement having both branches in parallel with each other and branches in series with each other.

The branches of the condenser 15 have a similar pressure drop between them so that the process fluid is distributed as uniformly as possible between the branches of the condenser 15. Furthermore, the branches of the condenser 15 can have the same length, one same internal diameter and, in addition or alternatively, the same external diameter. The internal and external diameter of the branches can be of the order of magnitude of mm. By way of example, the internal diameter of the branches can be between 2 mm and 3 mm and the external diameter of the branches can be between 3 mm and 4 mm.

Each branch of the condenser 15 can optionally have straight portions and curvilinear portions and can comprise one or more tubes.

Each branch of the condenser 15 is engaged in correspondence with a respective portion of the bottom 5 of the tank 2 and can be fluid-dynamically conceived and shaped in order to optimize the heat exchange between the process fluid and the washing fluid. Providing optimized branches for a respective portion of the tank 2 can advantageously allow you to manage the arrangement of the branches based on the specific heat exchange needs of the appliance, which can be local, i.e. defined in correspondence with a specific portion of the tank, or overall; the latter may, for example, be a function of the volume of the washing chamber 2a or the maximum load capacity of household appliance items 1.

The condenser 15 extends perimeter around the closed path profile of the access mouth 7a of the washing fluid collection well 7. Each branch of the condenser 15 can be arranged in proximity to each side or section of the closed path profile of the washing mouth. access 7a.

The capacitor 15 is made of a thermally conductive material, such as copper. Not coming into direct contact with the washing fluid, the condenser 15 has the advantage of allowing a much wider range of choice (compared to the known art) about the constituent material of the condenser 15 itself.

The condenser 15 can be engaged to the tank 2 by means of a support element 17. The support element 17 is configured to house and support the condenser 15. The support element 17 is engaged at the lower portion of the tank 2. In embodiment of the attached figures, the support element 17 is engaged with the bottom 5 of the tank 2 in correspondence with the external surface 5b of the bottom 5. In this way, the support element 17 advantageously allows the arrangement of the condenser 15 in such a way that it faces the tank 2 and develops at least partially in contact with the tank 2.

In a first embodiment of the invention, the support element 17 has grooves counter-shaped at least partially to the profile of the condenser 15; the grooves are configured to house respective branches of the capacitor 15. In this embodiment, the support element 17 can advantageously be made of plastic material. Providing the plastic material for the support element can, for example, allow the support element 17 to be molded in a conformation that includes grooves.

In a second embodiment of the invention as an alternative to the first embodiment, the capacitor 15 can be embedded in the support element 17, for example by co-molding the capacitor 15 in the support element 17. In this embodiment, the supporting element support can be a tar sheet element 17.

The technical characteristics of the household appliance 1 which may be common to both embodiments are described below.

The condenser 15 is arranged at the second section of the heat pump, while the compressor 13, the evaporator 14 and, optionally, the expansion member 16 are arranged at the first section of the heat pump. The first section of the heat pump can be defined or located mainly in the base 11. Optionally, the first section of the heat pump can be defined or completely located in the internal volume of the base 11. Provide that the first section and the related components of the pump the compressor 13, the evaporator 14 and, optionally, the expansion member 16 are mainly or completely arranged in the base 11 makes it possible to prepare a pre-assembled base 11 equipped with compressor 13, evaporator 14 and, optionally, expansion member 16, in correspondence with which a large part of the heat pump circuit therefore develops; this base 11 can then be assembled to the tank 2 in order to make the household appliance 1. When assembling the base 11 to the tank 2, the circuit of the heat pump is closed, which is obtained by fluid-dynamically connecting the condenser 15 to compressor 13 and evaporator 14, possibly with the interposition of the expansion member 16.

By way of example, the expansion member 16 can be a coil or a lamination valve. Downstream of the expansion member 16, the process fluid can move along the heat pump circuit in the direction of the evaporator 14. The household appliance 1 also comprises at least one flexible connection element, which defines a section of the circuit of the heat pump. The flexible connecting element is configured to place the condenser 15 and the compressor 13 in fluid communication; for example, the flexible connection element can be used to carry out the previously introduced operation of closing the heat pump circuit. By placing the compressor 13 and the condenser 15 in fluid communication, the flexible connection element allows you to fluidly connect a head of the first section with the respective head of the second section. Providing a flexible connection element is particularly advantageous as it greatly simplifies the assembly of the condenser 15 in the heat pump circuit. Providing a flexible connecting element is also advantageous as its flexibility allows it to be arranged in multiple operating configurations, adapting to the geometry of the appliance components 1. The flexible connecting element can also be elastically deformable; the elastic deformability determines its flexibility. The flexible connection element can be a flexible tube which can be made, for example, of plastic material.

The household appliance 1 can comprise a first flexible connection element and a second flexible connection element defining a respective section of the heat pump circuit. The first flexible connecting element is configured to place the condenser 15 and the compressor 13 in fluid communication in accordance with what has been previously described and therefore defines the section of the heat pump circuit arranged between the condenser 15 and the compressor 13, while the second flexible connecting element can be configured to place the compressor 13 and the expansion member 16 in fluid communication and therefore defines the section of the heat pump circuit arranged between the compressor and the expansion member.

The household appliance 1 can further comprise a fan 18 configured to draw air from the outside of the household appliance 1, in particular to heat the evaporator 14 and, in addition or alternatively, to cool the compressor 13. By way of example, the fan 18 can be configured to heat the evaporator 14 using at least part of the heat coming from the compressor 13, for example heat dissipated by the compressor 13.

The household appliance 1 can also comprise a heater 19 configured to heat the washing fluid. Providing the heater 19 can be particularly advantageous as it allows to assist the condenser 15 of the household appliance 1 to heat the washing fluid; in this way, the household appliance 1 equipped with a heater 19 and a heat pump is advantageously capable of speeding up or minimizing the transients aimed at reaching the operating conditions of the household appliance 1. The heater 19 can be arranged near the pump 8 or it can be wrapped around the pump 8. The heater 19 can be, by way of example, an electrical resistance.

The household appliance 1 can also comprise a control unit configured to manage, command or supervise at least one operating cycle or a plurality of operating cycles of the household appliance 1. The operating cycles can for example be washing or rinsing cycles and, in addition or alternatively, drying cycles. In conditions of use of the appliance 1 during drying, the appliance 1 can provide at least one zone with a lower temperature (cold zone, i.e. zone with a lower temperature than a hot zone) and at least one zone with a higher temperature (hot zone, i.e. zone with a higher temperature than the cold zone); these areas can be defined at the bottom 5 of the tank 2. Provide at least one cold area and at least one hot area allows you to reduce the humidity of the items in the form of condensation. Preferably, each zone can comprise a respective portion of the bottom 5 of the tank 2. The cold zones can be made by arranging a respective portion of the bottom 5 near or in correspondence with the evaporator 14, which allows the temperature of this zone to be lowered. (cooling of the zone to define the cold zone); in this way, the cold areas allow the condensation of moisture. In an alternative embodiment, at least one alternative cooling element can be provided with respect to the evaporator 14. Optionally, in addition or alternatively with respect to the cold zone defined at the bottom 5 of the tank 2, a further cold zone can be defined at the rear panel 4b of the side wall 4 of the tank 2; a cooling element configured to cool at least a portion of the rear panel 4b can be located near the rear panel 4b in such a way as to define the further cold zone. The hot areas allow the heating of the drying fluid and therefore the drying of the items arranged in the drying chamber 2a. At least one hot zone can be defined at the bottom 5 of the tank 2 due to the heating action carried out by the condenser 15 at the bottom 5. In an alternative embodiment, at least one alternative or additional heating element can be provided than capacitor 15.

The appliance may also include an automatic door opening mechanism, which is configured to open the door when it is in the closed position. Providing an automatic door opening mechanism allows the humidity of the items to be evacuated automatically. The automatic opening of the door can be controlled by the control unit, for example according to the quantity of articles present in the drying chamber 2a or the humidity present in the drying chamber 2a or the type of drying cycle implemented by the appliance. 1.

Optionally, the household appliance can provide a drying fluid recirculation system communicating with opposite portions of the tub 2, such as a lower portion defined near the bottom 5 and an upper portion defined near the cover portion 3, and configured to recirculate the drying fluid between these portions. The recirculation system can be configured to recirculate drying fluid between the lower portion and the upper portion in a specific direction (from the lower portion to the upper portion or from the upper portion to the lower portion) or in both directions. The recirculation system can provide at least one fan configured to move the drying fluid along a recirculation path of the recirculation system.

Method of making the appliance

The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing the household appliance which provides for engaging a condenser 15 to a tank 2 for a household appliance 1. The method can be aimed at making a household appliance 1 for washing items such as crockery or cutlery in in accordance with the above description, in accordance with any of the appended claims and, in addition or alternatively, in accordance with any of the foregoing aspects. The components that will be recalled below may be of the type previously described with reference to the appliance 1.

The method provides for the provision of a tank 2 and a condenser 15. The tank 2 and the condenser 15 can be in accordance with what has been previously described.

The step of preparing the capacitor 15 can provide for providing a capacitor 15 in engagement with a support element 17.

According to a first embodiment of the method, the preparation of the capacitor 15 in engagement with the support element 17 can provide for the provision of a support element 17, for example in plastic material, and mount the condenser 15 to the support element. The predisposed support element 17 can be provided with a plurality of grooves counter-shaped at least partially to the profile of the condenser 15 and configured to house respective branches of the condenser 15. The step of assembling the condenser 15 to the support element 17 can provide for positioning each branch of the condenser 15 in correspondence with a respective groove of the support element 17. The first embodiment therefore provides for engaging the support element 17 to the tank 2; a possible mode of engagement of the support element 17 to the tank 2 involves the use of threaded elements or interlocking elements. In possible variants, alternative engagement elements can be provided with respect to the threaded elements and with respect to the interlocking elements.

According to a second embodiment of the method, the predisposition of the condenser 15 in engagement with the support element 17 can provide for the provision of a support element 17, for example an element in tar sheet, and for embedding the condenser 15 in the support element 17. The step which involves embedding the condenser 15 in the support element 17 can be carried out by co-molding the support element 14 and the condenser 17. If the support element is a tar sheet element 17 , the co-molding step envisages co-molding the condenser 15 on the tar sheet element 17. The second embodiment therefore provides for engaging the support element 17, in which the condenser 15 is embedded, to the tank 2; a possible mode of engagement of the support element 17 to the tank 2 provides for gluing the support element 17 to the tank, in particular causing the melting of the portion of the tar sheet element in contact with an external surface 5b of the bottom 5 of tank 2.

In both embodiments, the step of engagement of the support element 17 to the tank 2 is made in such a way as to engage the condenser 15 at least partially in contact with the tank 2.

Further steps of the method are described below which may be common to both embodiments.

The step of engaging the support element 17 with the tank 2 involves engaging the support element 17 at the bottom 5 of the tank 2. The support element 17 can be engaged, for example, at the outer surface 5b of the bottom 5 of the tank 2.

The engagement of the support element 17 with respect to the tank 5 allows to arrange the condenser 15 at least partially in contact with the tank 5 and defines the second section of the heat pump.

The engagement of the support element 17 with respect to the tank 5 can be made in such a way as to arrange the condenser 15 with respect to the tank 2 in accordance with what was previously described with reference to the household appliance 1; for example, the condenser 15 can be arranged at least partially around the washing fluid collection sump 7.

The method also provides for the provision of a base 11, typically made by molding in plastic material, inside which the compressor 13, the evaporator 14 and, optionally, the expansion member 16 are housed. 11 can provide for the provision of a pre-assembled base 11 in which the compressor 13, the evaporator 14 and, optionally, the expansion member 16 are already predominantly or completely arranged in the internal volume of the base 11 and define the first section of the pump heat. Preparing a pre-assembled base 11 is particularly advantageous as it allows the appliance 1 to be assembled quickly and effectively. Alternatively, the step of preparing the base 11 can provide for providing a base 11 and arranging, mainly or completely, the compressor 13, the evaporator 14 and, optionally, the expansion member 16 in the internal volume of the base 11 in so as to define the first section of the heat pump.

The method can also provide for fluid-dynamically closing the heat pump circuit by means of at least one flexible connection element. The step which provides for fluid-dynamically closing the heat pump circuit involves placing the compressor 13 and the condenser 15 in fluid communication by means of a flexible connection element; this step therefore involves placing the first section of the heat pump circuit in fluid communication with the second section of the heat pump circuit. The flexible connection element can be of the type previously described with reference to the household appliance 1.

The method can also provide for fluid-dynamically closing the heat pump circuit by fluid-dynamically connecting the compressor 13 and the condenser 15 by means of a first flexible connection element and fluid-dynamically connecting the compressor 13 and the expansion member by means of a second flexible connection element. These phases can be subsequent to the preparation of the base 11; alternatively, the step that provides for fluid-dynamically connecting the compressor 13 and the condenser 15 by means of the first flexible connection element can be subsequent to the step of preparing the base 11, while the step of fluid-dynamically connecting the compressor 13 and the expansion member 16 by means of the second flexible connection element can be made within the setting of the pre-assembled base 11.

The method may comprise a step of loading process fluid into the compressor 13; this phase can be subsequent to the connection phase between the condenser 15 and the compressor 13. The loading of process fluid can make use of a special loading pipe provided in the compressor 13.

The method may also provide for the provision of a pump 8 configured to move the washing fluid along the washing circuit of the household appliance 1. The method may also provide for the provision of a heater 19 configured to heat the washing fluid. Optionally, the method may provide for arranging the heater 19 in proximity to the pump 8 or for wrapping the heater 19 around the pump 8.

Operation method of the appliance

The household appliance 1 is configured to operate in accordance with at least one operating method, which can be defined with reference to at least one washing or rinsing operating cycle of the household appliance 1. The washing or rinsing cycle of the household appliance 1 can be managed , controlled or supervised in all its phases by the control unit of the appliance 1. A washing or rinsing cycle of the appliance 1 is described below, by way of example. water from a source of washing fluid of the type described above. The water filling can be managed by one or more solenoid valves. The appliance 1 provides for adding an additive or washing or rinsing agent to the water to form, according to the type of additive or agent added, the washing fluid (water with added detergent) or rinsing fluid (water with added of rinse aid). The water loaded is heated and conveyed by the pump 8 to at least one sprinkler 10 or to a plurality of sprinklers 10; the water supply to the sprinklers 10 can be managed in accordance with what has been described above, for example by means of the control unit of the household appliance 1. The washing or rinsing fluid is then delivered into the washing chamber 2a by means of the sprinkler 10 or the sprinklers 10. Subsequently, after having suitably washed the articles present in the washing chamber 2a, the water flows, by means of the washing fluid outflow portion 6 defined on the bottom 5 of the tank 2, into the collection well of the washing 7, where it is filtered by the filter 9 and collected there. The washing or rinsing fluid can then be discharged from the washing fluid collection well 7, for example by means of a dedicated pump.

The water is heated by the resistance 19 and by the heat pump. The cycle involves activating the heat pump which, by means of the process fluid and in accordance with what has been previously described, allows the condenser 15 to be heated. In the time interval between the activation of the heat pump and the achievement of a desired condition of the household appliance 1, the water is heated both by the resistance 19 and by the condenser 15. The desired condition can be reached for example when the water, or the condenser 15, reaches a desired temperature. The desired condition can be a running condition of the condenser 15 or of the heat pump or, more generally, of the household appliance 1. Depending on the type of operating cycle of the household appliance 1 or the type of additive or agent added to the water , the desired temperature may vary. When the desired condition is reached, the resistance 19 is deactivated and the water heating continues exclusively by means of the condenser 15. Furthermore, if the operating cycle is an ecological cycle (energy saving cycle), it can foresee not to activate the resistance 19 and can therefore provide for heating the water exclusively by means of the condenser 15.

The method of operation of the household appliance 1 can also be defined with reference to at least one drying operating cycle of the household appliance 1. The drying cycle of the household appliance 1 can be managed, controlled or supervised in each of its phases by the control unit of the household appliance 1. A drying cycle of the household appliance 1 is described below, by way of example. The cycle provides for drying the articles present in the drying chamber 2a by means of air (drying fluid).

By acting on the articles, the air allows the removal of moisture from the articles themselves and the consequent drying of the same; this removal can be carried out by reducing humidity in the form of condensation and / or by evacuating the humidity outside the appliance 1.

The humidity can for example be removed in the form of condensation by advantageously providing, in conditions of use of the appliance 1 in drying and in accordance with what has been described above, at least one cold area and at least one hot area; these areas are preferably defined at the bottom 5 of the tank 2. The evaporator 14 allows the lowering of the temperature of at least one area of the bottom 5 (cooling the area to define the cold area) and; in this way, the cold area allows the condensation of moisture. The hot areas, on the other hand, allow to trigger convective movements of the air in the drying chamber 2a, and to heat the air; convective motions are exploited in order to increase the temperature of the articles and thus cause the evaporation of the water present on the surface on them. Providing an alternation between at least one hot area and at least one cold area advantageously allows you to optimally trigger convective movements of the air in the drying chamber 2a and at the same time to efficiently remove moisture from the air. In order to make the heat exchange inside the drying chamber 2a more efficient, the air can be recirculated through the recirculation system, for example by means of a fan, between opposite portions of the tank 2.

In addition or as an alternative to the abatement of humidity in the form of condensation, the appliance 1 can provide for evacuating the humidity. The humidity can be evacuated by opening, under the command of the control unit, the door using the automatic door opening mechanism. By opening the door, the air comes out of the drying chamber 2a and is introduced into the environment outside the appliance 1; in this way, the steam present in the air escapes from the tank 2 and decreases the humidity in the drying chamber 2a. The air can be moved out of the drying chamber 2a by means of a fan. the fan can allow the recirculation, against an appropriate command given by the control unit, of the air along the recirculation path of the recirculation system.

ADVANTAGES OF THE FOUND

The present invention allows to obtain a household appliance 1 for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type capable of optimizing the heat exchange between the condenser 15 and the washing fluid; this advantage is achieved by means of the arrangement of the condenser 15 with respect to the tank 2 described above and according to the following claims. The arrangement of the condenser 15 with respect to the tank 2 according to the invention also allows to optimize the architecture of the heat pump of the household appliance 1. In addition to the above, the arrangement of the condenser 15 with respect to the tank 2 according to the invention allows the condenser 15 to be arranged both along the washing circuit of the household appliance 1, in order to heat the washing fluid, and along the drying circuit of the household appliance 1, in order to heat the drying fluid. The arrangement of the condenser 15 with respect to the tank 2 in accordance with the invention also allows for the creation of a compact and compact household appliance 1.

Furthermore, by engaging the condenser 15 at the bottom 5 of the tank 2, the appliance 1 according to the invention allows to maximize the heat exchange surface at which the condenser 15 transmits heat to the washing fluid.

In addition to the above, the invention allows to realize different paths or profiles of the condenser 15, which can be conceived, optimized and subsequently arranged on the external surface 5b of the bottom 5 of the tank 2 according to specific characteristics of the tank 2 to which the condenser 15 is intended to be coupled, such as the volume of the tank 2, or according to specific characteristics of the household appliance 1, such as the load capacity of the household appliance 1. The different paths or profiles of the condenser 15 can for example vary in size , volume, further geometric characteristics, number of branches, arrangement of branches and, with reference to the individual branches, can for example vary in terms of pressure drop, process fluid flow, length, internal diameter, external diameter, shape or size. The invention also allows, due to the positioning of the condenser 15 in contact with the tank 2, to arrange on specific portions of the tank 2 specially designed and sized branches, for example in terms of fluid dynamics; the arrangement of the branches on specific portions of the tank 2 advantageously allows to maximize the heat exchange capacity locally, ie in correspondence with each of said portions. Consequently, the invention allows to maximize the overall heat exchange capacity between the condenser 15 and the washing fluid.

The household appliance 1 according to the invention is also particularly efficient and effective in terms of energy consumption, which is reduced without however worsening the performance of the appliance 1.

The invention also provides a household appliance 1 capable of speeding up or minimizing the transients aimed at reaching the operating conditions of the household appliance 1.

The invention also provides a method that allows a condenser 15 to be engaged in a tank 2 for an appliance 1 for washing items such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type in a simple and effective way.

The further advantages indicated above with reference to the household appliance 1 for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type are also applicable to the method for engaging a condenser 15 to a tank 2 for a household appliance 1 for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery of the heat pump type.

In particular, the method allows to engage the condenser 15 to the tank 2 in such a way as to form a heat pump circuit with an optimized architecture. Furthermore, the arrangement of the condenser 15 in contact with the tank 2 allows to optimize the heat transmission from the process fluid to the washing fluid. The method also allows you to create a compact and compact household appliance 1.

The invention also makes it possible to make available a household appliance 1 in a particularly performing energy class, for example A ++ or higher.

Claims (10)

CLAIMS 1. Electric household appliance (1) for washing items such as crockery or cutlery comprising: - a tank (2) defining a washing chamber (2a) suitable for receiving said articles, - at least one sprinkler (10) configured to deliver a washing fluid into the washing chamber (2a), - a heat pump configured to operate using a process fluid and equipped with at least: or an evaporator (14) at which the process fluid absorbs heat from a fluid, optionally from the washing fluid, o a condenser (15) in correspondence with which the process fluid transfers heat to a fluid, optionally to the washing fluid, o a circuit for the circulation of the process fluid fluid-dynamically connecting the condenser (15) and the evaporator (14) and configured to allow the circulation of process fluid between the evaporator (14) and the condenser (15), in which the condenser (15) develops at least partially in contact with the tank (2). 2. Appliance according to claim 1, further comprising a support element (17) engaged in correspondence with a lower portion of the tank (2), the condenser (15) being mounted to the support element (17) or being embedded, to example by co-molding, in the support element (17). 3. Household appliance according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the condenser (15) is engaged to the tub (2) at a lower portion of the tub (2), the tub (2) comprising a bottom (5) equipped with a internal surface (5a) facing the washing chamber (2a) and an external surface (5b), the condenser (15) facing the, or developing near or in correspondence with, the external surface (5b) of the bottom (5) of the tub (2). 4. Household appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a washing fluid collection sump (7) in fluid communication with the tank (2), the washing fluid collection sump (7) being configured to collect fluid in order to evacuate it from the washing chamber (2a), the condenser (15) developing at least partially around the collecting sump of the washing fluid (7), optionally in which the washing fluid collection well (7) has an access mouth (7a) having a closed path profile and suitable for allowing the washing fluid to access from the washing chamber (2a) to the collection well of washing fluid (7), the condenser (15) developing perimeter with respect to the closed path profile of said access mouth (7a), optionally in which the bottom (5) of the tank (2) comprises a portion of the washing fluid outflow (6) configured to facilitate the outflow of the washing fluid from the washing chamber (2a) to the washing fluid collection well ( 7), the washing fluid outflow portion (6) being arranged between the side wall (4, 4a, 4b, 4c) and the washing fluid collection sump (7), the condenser (15) being at least partially arranged or engaged in correspondence with the washing fluid outflow portion (6). Household appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the condenser (15) has at least one end connected fluid-dynamically to the circuit for the circulation of the process fluid by means of a flexible connection element. 6. Household appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a base (11) arranged below the tank (2), in which the heat pump further comprises a compressor (13) configured to move the process fluid in the circuit for the circulation of the process fluid, the compressor (13) and the evaporator (14) being arranged in the base (11). Electric household appliance (1) for washing articles such as crockery or cutlery, optionally according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the household appliance (1) is further configured to dry articles such as crockery or cutlery and comprises a tub (2) defining a drying chamber (2a) adapted to receive said articles and comprising a bottom (5), the bottom (5) comprising: - at least a first portion associated with at least one heating element (15), optionally the heating element comprising a condenser (15) of a heat pump circuit, and - at least a second portion, for example defined in proximity to the first portion, associated with at least one cooling element (14), optionally the cooling element comprising an evaporator (14) of a heat pump circuit, in particular in which the evaporator (14) and the condenser are part of the same heat pump circuit of the appliance (1). 8. Method for engaging a condenser (15) to a tub (2) for a heat pump type household appliance (1) for washing items such as crockery or cutlery, the household appliance (1) optionally being in accordance with a any of the preceding claims, the method comprising at least the steps of: - arrange a tank (2) defining a washing chamber (2a) suitable for receiving items to be washed such as crockery or cutlery, - prepare a condenser (15), - engage the condenser (15) at least partially in contact with the tank (2). Method according to claim 8, wherein arranging a capacitor (15) comprises: - prepare a support element (17), optionally the support element (17) being in plastic material, - mount the condenser (15) to the support element (17), - engage the support element (17) to the tank (2), optionally where: - providing a capacitor (15) comprises providing a capacitor (15) comprising a plurality of branches, - providing a support element (17) comprises providing a support element (17), optionally in plastic material, having grooves counter-shaped at least partially to a profile of the condenser (15) and configured to house respective branches of the condenser (15), - mounting the condenser (15) to the support element (17) comprises positioning each branch of said plurality of branches in correspondence with a respective groove of the support element (17). or in which to prepare a capacitor (15) comprises: - prepare a support element (17), optionally the support element (17) being an element in tar sheet, - drown the capacitor (15) in the support element (17), - engage the support element (17) to the tank (2), optionally where: - drowning the capacitor (15) in the support element (17) includes co-molding the capacitor (15) and the support element (17), - co-molding the condenser (15) and the support element (17) comprises co-molding the condenser (15) on a tar sheet element (17), - engaging the support element (17) to the tank (2) comprises engaging the tar sheet element (17) to the tank (2), for example by gluing. Method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the method comprising the following steps: - prepare a base (11) in which a compressor (13) and an evaporator (14) are housed, - fluid-dynamically connect the condenser (15) to the compressor (13) and / or the evaporator (14) using at least one flexible connection element.