WO2022086241A1

WO2022086241A1 - Dishwasher

Info

Publication number: WO2022086241A1
Application number: PCT/KR2021/014857
Authority: WO
Inventors: 백인우; 위재혁; 김두현; 박형만; 김정곤
Original assignee: 엘지전자 주식회사
Priority date: 2020-10-22
Filing date: 2021-10-21
Publication date: 2022-04-28
Also published as: KR20220053422A

Abstract

The present invention comprises: a tub including a bottom, an upper wall, a side wall, another side wall, and a rear wall and having a washing space formed therein; a door provided in the front portion of the tub, for opening/closing the washing space; and a drying device for drying the washing space, wherein the drying device includes: a drying duct including a condensing duct and a return duct; and a fan that causes inside air to flow. The condensing duct has a drain formed therein, the fan is arranged downstream of the drain, and the drain has a switch installed therein. The drain is opened/closed according to whether the fan is operating or the intensity of the fan, and the amount of water pooled in the drain or around the drain. Accordingly, drying performance can be improved, the proliferation of bacteria or mold can be prevented, manufacturing and maintenance costs are reduced, and the drain can be stably opened/closed.

Description

dish washer

The present invention relates to a dishwasher, and more particularly, to a dishwasher in which drying performance is improved, the growth of bacteria or mold is prevented, manufacturing and management costs are reduced, and a drain hole is stably opened and closed.

BACKGROUND ART A dishwasher is a home appliance that removes foreign substances remaining on the object to be washed by spraying a cleaning solution onto the object to be washed, such as dishes or cooking tools.

Such a dishwasher includes a tub providing a washing space, a rack provided in the tub to accommodate dishes, a spray arm spraying a washing solution to the rack, and a sump storing the washing solution. ) and a washing pump that supplies the washing liquid stored in the sump to the spray arm.

In addition, the dishwasher may be equipped with a drying module. The drying module can supply heated air to the inside of the tub (washing room, drying room) to remove moisture remaining in the dishes (drying object).

The drying module can be divided into an open circulation type and a closed circulation type. The open circulation type drying module can discharge humid air inside the tub to the outside, heat the outside air, and supply it to the inside of the tub. On the other hand, in the closed circulation type drying module, after discharging the humid air inside the tub to the outside, moisture is removed from the exhausted air and the moisture-removed air can be supplied back into the tub.

The closed circulation type drying module may have better drying performance than the open circulation type drying module, but it may increase the manufacturing cost and require more installation space, which may become an obstacle to downsizing the dishwasher.

The drying module may include a duct, a fan for flowing air inside the duct, and a heater for heating the air inside the duct.

A drain may be formed in the duct. Accordingly, since water introduced into the duct or generated in the duct can be discharged outside the duct, the drying performance of the drying module can be improved and the growth of bacteria or mold inside the duct can be prevented.

The drain hole may be always open or may be opened or closed depending on the situation. If the drain hole is always open, the air inside the duct, which is drier or warmer than the outside air, is discharged to the outside through the drain hole, and pressure loss may occur. In addition, outside air that is cooler or wetter than the air inside the duct is introduced into the duct, and drying efficiency may be lowered. Accordingly, in order to increase energy efficiency or drying efficiency, it may be desirable to open and close the second drain port D2 according to circumstances.

The prior art related to the drying module is as follows.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019-0038109 relates to a dishwasher, in which air flows from a tub to an airflow conduit through a tub, a tub air outlet, a tub air inlet, an airflow conduit connecting the tub air outlet to ambient air, and a tub air outlet a blower assembly for causing flow, a first reservoir associated with the airflow conduit and a second reservoir associated with the airflow conduit.

In the prior art, although a liquid outlet is disclosed, the drain port is only normally opened, and a method for opening and closing the drain port according to circumstances is not disclosed.

An object of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher that improves drying performance, prevents the growth of bacteria or mold, and prevents the fan 130 or the heater 140 from malfunctioning or malfunctioning due to water.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher in which manufacturing and management costs are reduced and the drain hole D2 is stably opened and closed.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher with improved drying efficiency and energy efficiency.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a dishwasher in which durability and stability of the drying apparatus 100 are improved.

The objects of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned objects, and other objects and advantages of the present invention not mentioned may be understood by the following description, and will be more clearly understood by the examples of the present invention. It will also be readily apparent that the objects and advantages of the present invention may be realized by the means and combinations thereof indicated in the appended claims.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a dishwasher including a tub 12 , a door 14 , and a drying device 100 .

The tub 12 includes a bottom 12B, an upper wall 12T, one side wall 12R, the other side wall 12L, and a rear wall 12RR.

The tub 12 has a washing space 12S formed therein.

The door 14 is provided in front of the tub 12 .

The door 14 opens and closes the washing space 12S.

The drying device 100 dries the washing space.

The tub 12 is formed with an inlet H1 and an outlet H2 positioned lower than the inlet H1.

The drying apparatus includes a drying duct 110 and a fan 130 .

The drying duct 110 communicates with the inlet H1 and the outlet H2.

The drying duct 110 is disposed outside the tub 12 .

The drying duct 110 includes a condensation duct 112 .

The drying duct 110 further includes a return duct 114 .

The fan 130 flows the air inside the drying duct 110 .

A drain hole (D2) penetrating the duct wall is formed in the drying duct (110).

The fan 130 is disposed on a downstream side of the drain hole D2.

A switch 170 is installed in the drain port D2.

In an embodiment, the condensation duct 112 may be configured to include a first condensation duct 1122 and a second condensation duct 1124 .

The first condensing duct 1122 may face the outer surface of the one side wall 12R.

An upstream end of the first condensing duct 1122 may communicate with the inlet H1.

The second condensing duct 1124 may be disposed under the floor 12B.

An upstream end of the second condensing duct 1124 may communicate with a downstream end of the first condensing duct 1122 .

A downstream end of the second condensing duct 1124 may communicate with the outlet H2.

An upstream end of the return duct 114 may communicate with a downstream end of the second condensing duct 1124 .

A downstream end of the return duct 114 may communicate with the outlet H2.

The drain hole D2 may pass through the duct wall of the second condensation duct 1124 .

In an embodiment, the switch 170 may open or close the drain D2 according to whether or not the fan 130 is operating or not and the amount of water collected around the drain D2 or drain D2.

In one embodiment, a water retention groove P may be formed on the lower surface of the drying duct 110 or the second condensation duct 1124 .

The drain hole (D2) may be formed by penetrating the duct wall at the bottom of the water retention groove (P) in the vertical direction.

In one embodiment, the cistern groove (P) may gradually decrease in cross-sectional area toward the bottom.

In one embodiment, the second condensing duct 1124 may communicate with the upstream end 114U of the return duct 114 .

The second condensing duct 1124 may be configured to include a downstream duct 1124B in which the height of the lower surface gradually increases from the upstream side to the downstream side.

The drain hole D2 may be formed near an upstream end of the downstream duct 1124B.

In an embodiment, the drain hole D2 may include one or more first through holes D2A and D2B penetrating the duct wall of the drying duct 110 or the second condensation duct 1124 .

The switch 170 may include a blocking plate 172 and one or more locking bodies 174 .

The blocking plate 172 may open and close the first through holes D2A and D2B.

Each of the one or more locking members 174 may extend upwardly from the upper surface of the blocking plate 172 .

The one or more locking bodies 174 may be configured to include a body portion 1742 and a head portion 1744, respectively.

Each of the locking bodies 174 may correspond to each of the first through-holes D2A and D2B.

The lower end of the body portion 1742 is coupled to the blocking plate 172 , and each body portion 1742 constituting each of the locking bodies 174 is each of the locking bodies 174 and corresponding to each of the respective locking bodies 174 . It may be disposed through the first through-holes D2A and D2B.

The head 1744 may be coupled to the upper end of the body 1742 .

The length of the body portion 1742 may be longer than the length of the first through-holes D2A and D2B through which the body portion 1742 passes.

The length of the body portion 1742 may be longer than the depth of the first through-holes D2A and D2B through which the body portion 1742 passes.

A cross-sectional area of the body portion 1742 may be smaller than a cross-sectional area of the first through-holes D2A and D2B through which the body portion 1742 passes.

The maximum cross-sectional area of the head 1744 and the blocking plate 172 may be greater than the cross-sectional area of the first through-holes D2A and D2B through which the body 1742 passes.

In an embodiment, the drain hole D2 may include a plurality of the first through holes D2A and D2B.

Among the plurality of first through-holes (D2A, D2B), at least two of the first through-holes (D2A, D2B) pass through the midpoint of the positions of the at least two first through-holes (D2A, D2B) and pass through the drying duct ( 110) or the second condensing duct 1124 may be formed symmetrically on both sides based on an imaginary straight line L1 extending in the longitudinal direction.

In an embodiment, the drain hole D2 may further include a second through hole D2C penetrating the duct wall of the drying duct 110 or the second condensation duct 1124 .

The blocking plate 172 may be formed according to whether or not the fan 130 operates or not, and the amount of water collected in or around the first through holes D2A and D2B and the second through hole D2C. (D2A, D2B) and the second through hole (D2C) can be opened and closed.

In an embodiment, the second through-hole D2C may have a larger cross-sectional area than the first through-holes D2A and D2B.

The plurality of first through-holes D2A and D2B may be formed at equal angular intervals with respect to the second through-hole D2C.

In an embodiment, the drain hole D2 may include two or more of the first through holes D2A and D2B.

At least two of the first through-holes D2A and D2B pass through the second through-hole D2C and extend along the longitudinal direction of the drying duct 110 or the second condensing duct 1124. An imaginary straight line L1 ) may be formed symmetrically on both sides of the reference.

In one embodiment, at least two of the first through-holes D2A and D2B and the second through-hole D2C formed symmetrically on both sides with respect to the virtual straight line L1 are on the straight line L2. can be formed.

In one embodiment, the switch 170 may include a protrusion 176 .

The protrusion 176 may protrude upward from the upper surface of the blocking plate 172 .

The protrusion 176 may be inserted into the second through hole D2C.

In an embodiment, the protrusion 176 may include a height section HS2 in which the cross-sectional area gradually decreases as the height from the upper surface of the blocking plate 172 increases.

In one embodiment, the head 1744 may include a height section HS1 in which the cross-sectional area gradually decreases as the height from the blocking plate 172 increases.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the drying duct 110 or the second condensing duct 1124 may be formed with a drain hole (D2) penetrating the duct wall. Accordingly, since the water introduced through the inlet (H1) or the outlet (H2) or the water condensed in the condensation duct 112 can be discharged to the outside through the second drain port (D2), the drying apparatus 100 Drying performance can be improved. In addition, since the humidity inside the drying duct 110 or the second condensation duct 1124 is lowered, it is possible to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold therein. In addition, since it is possible to prevent water from flowing into the motor or heater 140 of the fan 130 , it is possible to prevent the fan 130 or the heater 140 from malfunctioning or malfunctioning due to water.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the fan 130 may be disposed on a downstream side of the drain hole D2 , and a switch 170 may be installed in the drain hole D2 . The switch 170 may open or close the drain port D2 according to whether or not the fan 130 is operating or not, and the amount of water collected around the drain hole D2 or the drain hole D2. Accordingly, when the fan 130 operates or the intensity of the fan 130 is strong, a negative pressure is formed in the second drain hole D2 , and thus the switch 170 moves to close the drain hole D2 . On the other hand, if the fan 130 stops working or the strength of the fan 130 is weak, negative pressure is not formed in the second drain port D2, so the switch 170 moves to the original position and the second drain hole D2 is opened. can In addition, the second drain port D2 may be opened and closed according to the pressure due to the weight of the water applied to the switch 170 . Accordingly, since the switch 170 opens and closes the second drain port D2 according to the direction of the pressure acting on the switch 170 , the structure of the switch 170 can be simplified and the switch 170 can be easily manufactured at low cost. can do. In addition, since the second drain port D2 is automatically opened and closed according to circumstances, drying efficiency and energy efficiency can be improved. In addition, since the water is discharged to lower the humidity, it is possible to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold inside the duct 1124 .

According to embodiments of the present invention, a water retention groove (P) may be formed on the lower surface of the drying duct 110 or the second condensing duct 1124 . The drain hole (D2) may be formed by penetrating the duct wall at the bottom of the water retention groove (P) in the vertical direction. Accordingly, water can be quickly and easily collected in the water sump P under the air flow path outside the air flow path, so that the water can be discharged quickly and effectively with a simple configuration. Accordingly, the drying performance is improved and the humidity is lowered, so that it is possible to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold inside. In addition, since water can be quickly and easily collected and discharged effectively, the size of the drain hole D2 and the switch 170 can be reduced. Accordingly, manufacturing and management costs can be reduced, and since the drain port D2 can be stably opened and closed, drying efficiency and energy efficiency can be improved.

According to the embodiments of the present invention, the water retention groove (P) may gradually decrease in cross-sectional area toward the bottom. Accordingly, water can be collected more quickly and easily and discharged effectively. Accordingly, the drying performance is improved and the humidity is lowered, so that it is possible to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold inside. In addition, since water can be quickly and easily collected and effectively discharged, the size of the drain hole D2 and the switch 170 can be further reduced. Accordingly, manufacturing and management costs can be reduced, and since the drain port D2 can be stably opened and closed, drying efficiency and energy efficiency can be improved.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the lower surface of the second downstream duct 1124B goes from near (upstream side) the upstream end 1124BU of the second downstream duct 1124B toward the downstream end 1124BD near (downstream side). The approximate height may be gradually increased. Accordingly, water flowing into the second downstream duct 1124B or generated in the second downstream duct 1124B is directed away from the fan 130 disposed near the downstream end 1124BD of the second downstream duct 1124B. As it flows, it is possible to prevent water from flowing into the motor 136 of the fan 130 . Accordingly, since it is possible to prevent the fan 130 from being damaged by water, durability and stability of the drying apparatus 100 may be improved.

In addition, since water accumulates near the upstream end 1124BU of the second downstream duct 1124B, if the drain hole D2 is formed near the upstream end 1124BU of the second downstream duct 1124B, water can be drained quickly, easily and effectively. can be discharged In particular, when the water is quickly collected, the switch 170 is pressurized and the water is discharged quickly, so that the drying performance can be improved. In addition, since water can be quickly collected and discharged effectively, the size of the drain hole D2 and the switch 170 can be reduced. Accordingly, manufacturing and management costs can be reduced, and since the drain port D2 can be stably opened and closed, drying efficiency and energy efficiency can be improved. In addition, since water is rapidly discharged and the humidity of the second downstream duct 1124B is lowered, it is possible to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold inside the second downstream duct 1124B.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the switch 170 extends upward from the upper surface of the blocking plate 172 and the blocking plate 172 for opening and closing the first through holes D2A and D2B, and the body portion 1742 ) and may include one or more locking bodies 174 configured to include one or more heads 1744 . The one or more locking bodies 174 may correspond to the one or more first through-holes D2A and D2B, respectively. The lower end of the body portion 1742 is coupled to the blocking plate 172, and each body portion 1742 constituting each locking body 174 has a respective first through-hole ( It may be disposed through D2A, D2B). The head 1744 may be coupled to the upper end of the body 1742 . The length of the body portion 1742 may be longer than the length (depth) of the first through-holes D2A and D2B through which the body portion 1742 passes. A cross-sectional area of the body portion 1742 may be smaller than a cross-sectional area of the first through-holes D2A and D2B through which the body portion 1742 passes. The maximum cross-sectional area of the head 1744 and the blocking plate 172 may be greater than the cross-sectional area of the first through-holes D2A and D2B through which the body 1742 passes.

Accordingly, the body portion 1742 of the locking body 174 penetrating the first through-holes D2A, D2B cannot escape the first through-holes D2A, D2B, and the first through-holes D2A and D2B. Water may be discharged and air may be introduced through the empty space between the body and the body 1742 , and the switch 170 may move a predetermined distance in the penetration direction of the first through holes D2A and D2B. Accordingly, the switch 170 that opens and closes the second drain port D2 according to the direction of the pressure acting on the switch 170 can be easily manufactured with a simple configuration at low cost.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the drain hole D2 may include a plurality of first through holes D2A and D2B. At least two first through-holes (D2A, D2B) pass through the midpoint of the positions of the at least two first through-holes (D2A, D2B) and the longitudinal direction of the drying duct 110 or the second condensing duct 1124 It may be formed symmetrically on both sides based on an imaginary straight line L1 extending along the line. Accordingly, since the distances from the at least two locking bodies 174 to the fan 130 are similar to each other, even if a plurality of locking bodies 174 are provided on the blocking plate 172 , at least two The magnitude of the pressure applied to each of the dogs near the locking body 174 may be similar to each other. Accordingly, when the switch 170 moves a predetermined distance in the penetrating direction of the first through-holes D2A and D2B, the balance may be maintained without inclining to either side. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the opening and closing of the drain hole D2 from not being performed because the switch 170 is obliquely caught in the drain hole D2.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the drain hole (D2) may be configured to further include a second through hole (D2C) penetrating the duct wall of the drying duct (110) or the second condensation duct (1124). The blocking plate 172, whether or not the fan 130 operates or not, the amount of water collected in the first through holes (D2A, D2B) and the second through hole (D2C) or the first through holes (D2A, D2B) and The first through-holes D2A and D2B and the second through-hole D2C may be opened and closed according to the amount of water collected around the second through-hole D2C. Accordingly, water may be quickly and effectively discharged through the second through hole D2C. In addition, since the area where the negative pressure of air or the water pressure of water acts on the switch 170 through the second through hole D2C increases, the total amount of force (external force) by the negative pressure or water pressure increases, so that the opening and closing of the drain port D2 is difficult. It can be performed quickly and reliably.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the cross-sectional area of the second through-hole D2C may be larger than that of the first through-hole D2A and D2B. Accordingly, water may be discharged more quickly and effectively through the second through hole D2C. In addition, since the area where the negative pressure of air or the water pressure of water acts on the switch 170 through the second through hole D2C further increases, the total amount of force (external force) by the negative pressure or water pressure increases, so that the opening and closing of the drain port D2 can be performed more quickly and stably.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the drain hole D2 includes a plurality of first through-holes D2A and D2B, and the plurality of first through-holes D2A and D2B is centered on the second through-hole D2C. may be formed at approximately equal angle intervals. Accordingly, the forces acting on the switch 170 through the plurality of first through-holes D2A and D2B arranged at equal angular intervals with respect to the second through-hole D2C are balanced without being concentrated on either side. can Therefore, even when a relatively large force is applied to the switch 170 through the second through hole D2C, when the switch 170 moves a predetermined distance in the through direction of the first through hole D2A, D2B, either one You can keep your balance without leaning. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the opening and closing of the drain hole D2 from not being performed because the switch 170 is obliquely caught in the drain hole D2.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the drain hole D2 includes two or more first through-holes D2A and D2B, and the at least two first through-holes D2A and D2B include a second through-hole D2C. It may be formed symmetrically on both sides based on an imaginary straight line L1 extending along the longitudinal direction of the drying duct 110 or the second condensing duct 1124 passing through. Accordingly, the distances from the at least two locking bodies 174 to the fan 130 are similar to each other around a predetermined position on the blocking plate 172 corresponding to the second through hole D2C. Therefore, even if a large force is applied to the predetermined position through the second through hole D2C and a plurality of locking bodies 174 are provided on the blocking plate 172, at least two locking bodies ( 174) may be similar in magnitude to each other acting in the vicinity. Accordingly, when the switch 170 moves a predetermined distance in the penetrating direction of the first through-holes D2A and D2B, the balance may be maintained without inclining to either side. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the opening and closing of the drain hole D2 from not being performed because the switch 170 is obliquely caught in the drain hole D2.

According to embodiments of the present invention, it is symmetrical on both sides based on an imaginary straight line L1 that passes through the second through hole D2C and extends in the longitudinal direction of the drying duct 110 or the second condensation duct 1124 . The at least two first through-holes D2A and D2B and the second through-hole D2C may be formed on a straight line L2. Accordingly, the distance from a predetermined position on the blocking plate 172 corresponding to the second through hole D2C to which a large force is applied to the switch 170 to the fan 130 and the at least two locking bodies 174 . Since the distances from the fan 130 are all similar to each other, when the switch 170 moves a predetermined distance in the penetrating direction of the first through-holes D2A and D2B, for example, the drying duct 110 or the second condensation It is possible to maintain the balance without inclining in the longitudinal direction of the duct 1124. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the opening and closing of the drain hole D2 from being performed because the switch 170 is obliquely inserted into the drain hole D2 in the longitudinal direction, for example.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the switch 170 may include a protrusion 176 that protrudes upward from the upper surface of the blocking plate 172 and is inserted into the second through hole D2C. Accordingly, when negative pressure is applied to the second through-hole D2C by the fan 130 and the outside air flows into the drying duct 110 or the second condensing duct 1124 through the second through-hole D2C, , since the protrusion 176 reduces the space (area) into which the outside air flows, the inflow speed of the outside air increases, so that the pressure around the protrusion 176 can be further reduced. Accordingly, the second drain port D2 may be closed more quickly and stably even if the magnitude of the negative pressure applied to the second through hole D2C by the fan 130 is small.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the protrusion 176 has a height section HS2 in which the cross-sectional area gradually decreases as it goes upward with respect to the top surface of the blocking plate 172 (that is, as the height from the top surface of the blocking plate increases). , FIG. 18) may be included. Accordingly, when the second drain hole D2 is opened, water can be quickly and effectively discharged along the inclined surface in the vertical direction of the protrusion 176 . In addition, when the second drain hole D2 is closed, the switch 170 can move in the penetrating direction of the first through holes D2A and D2B while finding the correct position along the vertical inclined surface of the protrusion 176. With the configuration, the opening and closing of the second drain port D2 can be stably performed.

According to the embodiments of the present invention, the head 1744 has a height section (HS1, FIG. 18 ) in which the cross-sectional area becomes gradually smaller as the distance from the blocking plate 172 increases (that is, as the height from the blocking plate increases). may include Accordingly, the head 1744 is inserted into the first through holes D2A and D2B from the upper part of the height section HS1 far from the blocking plate 172, and the lower part of the height section HS1 with a gradually large cross-sectional area moves downward. It can be easily and stably inserted into the first through-holes D2A and D2B while being elastically deformed. On the other hand, since the lower portion of the height section HS1 of the head portion 1744 close to the blocking plate 172 is difficult to elastically deform upward, the head portion 1744 passes through the first through holes D2A and D2B. The head 1744 cannot escape through the first through-holes D2A and D2B. Accordingly, the head 1744 may stably bind the switch 170 to the first through holes D2A and D2B.

In addition to the above-described effects, the specific effects of the present invention will be described together while describing specific details for carrying out the invention below.

1 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention.

2 is a perspective view of a tub according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIGS. 3 to 6 are a perspective view, a front view, a side view, and a plan view of a drying apparatus and a tub according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is the present invention is a perspective view of a drying apparatus according to an embodiment.

8 is a view showing a structure in which some components of the drying apparatus of FIGS. 3 to 7 are integrally manufactured, and FIG. 9 is a heat exchange duct and heat exchange disposed between the first upstream duct and the first downstream duct in the structure of FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the flow path part.

10 is a perspective view illustrating a second connection duct, a second condensing duct, a return duct, a fan housing, a heater, and a distributor according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 11 to 13 are a second connection duct according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2It is a perspective view, a plan view, and a cross-sectional view showing the downstream duct, the return duct, the fan housing, and the heater.

14 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a second downstream duct, a return duct, a fan housing, a heater, and a distributor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which fan blades and a motor are installed in the fan housing of FIG. 13 .

16 and 17 are cross-sectional views and partial perspective views illustrating a state in which the switchgear according to an embodiment of the present invention closes the second drain port of FIGS. 13 and 15 .

18 and 19 are cross-sectional views illustrating a state in which the switch of FIGS. 16 and 17 opens the second drain port.

20 to 22 are perspective views, front views, and side views illustrating the switchgear of FIGS. 16 to 19 .

The above-described objects, features and advantages will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains will be able to easily implement the technical idea of the present invention. In describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a known technology related to the present invention may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar components.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and various changes may be made and may be implemented in various different forms. Only this embodiment is provided to complete the disclosure of the present invention and to fully inform those of ordinary skill in the scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and all changes and equivalents included in the technical spirit and scope of the present invention as well as substituting or adding the configuration of any one embodiment and the configuration of other embodiments to each other or substitutes.

The accompanying drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, and the technical spirit disclosed in the present specification is not limited by the accompanying drawings, and all changes and equivalents included in the spirit and scope of the present invention It should be understood to include water or substitutes. In the drawings, in consideration of the convenience of understanding, the size or thickness may be exaggeratedly large or small, but the protection scope of the present invention should not be construed as being limited thereto.

The terms used herein are used only to describe specific embodiments or examples, and are not intended to limit the present invention. And singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In the specification, terms such as includes, consists of, etc. are intended to designate that the features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification exist. That is, in the specification, terms such as include and consist of. It should be understood that this does not preclude the possibility of addition or existence of one or more other features or numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof. In addition, in the specification, terms such as includes and consists of should not be construed as necessarily including all features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification.

Terms including an ordinal number such as 1st, 2nd, etc. may be used to describe various elements, but the elements are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. Unless otherwise stated, it goes without saying that the first component may be the second component.

When an element is referred to as being “connected” or “connected” to another element, it is understood that it may be directly connected or connected to the other element, but other elements may exist in between. it should be On the other hand, when it is said that a certain element is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another element, it should be understood that the other element does not exist in the middle.

When an element is referred to as being "on" or "below" another element, it should be understood that other elements may be present in the middle as well as disposed directly on the other element. .

Unless defined otherwise, all terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the related art, and should not be interpreted in an ideal or excessively formal meaning unless explicitly defined in the present application. does not

For convenience of description, a direction in which the front or rear side of the door is viewed when the door of the dishwasher is closed is referred to as a first direction or a front-rear direction.

The second direction or the left-right direction means a direction toward the left and right sides of the drawing in a drawing facing the front of the door in a closed state.

The drain hole described in the claims may mean a second drain hole D2 to be described later. In addition, the downstream duct described in the claims may mean a second downstream duct 1124B to be described later.

Hereinafter, a dishwasher according to some embodiments of the present invention will be described.

Referring to FIG. 1 , a dishwasher 1 according to an exemplary embodiment includes a cabinet 11 , a tub 12 , a plurality of

spray arms

23 , 24 , 25 , a sump 50 , a filter 70 , and washing. It may include a pump 80 , a switching valve 85 , a water supply valve 32 , a drain pump 35 , a drying device 100 , and a control unit (not shown). Let's take a look at each configuration.

The cabinet 11 may form the exterior of the dishwasher 1 .

The tub 12 may be provided inside the cabinet 11 . The tub 12 may be formed in a hexahedral shape with an open front surface. However, the shape of the tub 12 is not limited thereto, and may have various shapes.

A washing space 12S in which a washing object is accommodated may be formed inside the tub 12 . A door 14 ( FIG. 2 ) for opening and closing the washing space 12S may be provided in front of the tub 12 .

An inlet H1 and an outlet H2 communicating with the drying apparatus 100 may be formed on the sidewall 12R and the bottom 12B of the tub 12 . In this regard, it will be described later. Also, a communication hole H3 through which the washing liquid flows into the sump 50 may be formed in the bottom 12B of the tub 12 .

A door 14 ( FIG. 2 ) is provided on the front side of the tub 12 to open and close the washing space 12S.

A plurality of

racks

26 and 27 in which washing objects such as dishes are accommodated may be disposed in the washing space 12S. The plurality of

racks

26 and 27 may include a lower rack 26 disposed below the washing space 12S and an upper rack 27 disposed above the washing space 12S. The lower rack 26 and the upper rack 27 may be disposed to be vertically spaced apart, and may be slid forward of the tub 12 to be drawn out.

The plurality of

injection arms

23 , 24 , 25 may be vertically spaced apart from each other. The plurality of

spray arms

23 , 24 , 25 may include a low spray arm 23 , an upper spray arm 24 and a top spray arm 25 . The row spray arm 23 may spray the washing liquid upward toward the lower rack 26 . The upper spray arm 24 may be disposed on the upper portion of the row spray arm 23 , and may spray the washing liquid upward toward the upper rack 27 . The top spray arm 25 may be disposed at the uppermost end of the cleaning space 12S and may spray the cleaning liquid downward.

The plurality of

spray arms

23 , 24 , and 25 may receive a cleaning solution from the washing pump 80 through the plurality of spray arm

connection flow pipes

28 , 29 , and 31 .

The sump 50 may be formed under the bottom 12B of the tub 12 , and may collect and store the washing solution. Specifically, the sump 50 may be connected to the water supply passage 33 , and may receive and store a clean washing solution containing no foreign substances through the water supply passage 33 . In addition, the sump 50 may receive and store a cleaning solution in which foreign matter has been filtered through the filter 70 .

The filter 70 may be provided in the sump 50 and may be installed in the communication hole H3. The filter 70 may filter foreign matter from the washing solution containing foreign matter moving from the tub 12 to the sump 50 .

The water supply valve 32 may control the washing liquid supplied from an external water source through the water supply passage 33 . When the water supply valve 32 is opened, the washing liquid supplied from an external water source may flow into the sump 50 through the water supply passage 33 .

The drain passage 34 may be connected to the drain pump 35 and the sump 50 .

The drain pump 35 may be connected to the drain flow path 34 and may include a drain motor (not shown).

When the drain pump 35 operates, foreign substances or washing liquid filtered through the filter 50 may be discharged to the outside through the drain passage 34 .

The washing pump 80 may be disposed under the bottom 12B of the tub 12 and may supply the washing liquid stored in the sump 50 to the plurality of

spray arms

23 , 24 , and 25 .

The switching valve 85 may selectively connect at least one of the plurality of

spray arms

23 , 24 , 25 with the washing pump 80 .

The drying apparatus 100 may be disposed below the one side wall 12R and the bottom 12B of the tub 12 . The drying apparatus 100 may communicate with the inside of the washing space 12S through the inlet H1 and the outlet H2. The drying apparatus 100 may dry the washing space 12S inside the tub 12 .

In the drying step of the dishwasher 1, the humid air inside the washing space 12S may be introduced into the drying apparatus 100 through the inlet H1, and the air dried in the drying apparatus 100 may be discharged through the outlet H2. It may flow out into the washing space 12S through the . Such air circulation may be repeatedly performed. As such, the drying apparatus 100 may improve drying performance through closed circulation of air.

On the other hand, various parts constituting the dishwasher 1 such as a washing pump 80 are installed under the bottom 12B of the tub 12 and a sump 50 is formed, so that the drying device 100 can be installed. Space can be tight. Accordingly, the drying apparatus 100 must have a small size and a compact structure to be installed in the dishwasher 1 .

The distributor 150 of the drying apparatus 100 may be inserted into the washing space 12S through the outlet H2. The distributor 150 may be disposed at an edge corner of the tub 12 so as not to collide with the rotating spray arm 23 .

The control unit (not shown) may be connected to, and control the washing pump 80 , the switching valve 85 , the water supply valve 32 , the drain pump 35 , the drying device 100 , and the like.

Referring to FIG. 2 , the tub 12 according to an embodiment may include a bottom 12B, an upper wall 12T, one side wall 12R, the other side wall 12L, and a rear wall 12RR. A washing space 12S may be formed in the tub 12 by the bottom 12B, the upper wall 12T, one side wall 12R, the other side wall 12L, and the rear wall 12RR. For example, one side wall 12R may be a right side wall of the tub 12 , and the other side wall 12L may be a left side wall of the tub 12 .

A door 14 for opening and closing the washing space 12S may be provided in front of the tub 12 .

The bottom 12B and the upper wall 12T may face each other in the vertical direction, and the rear wall 12RR and the door 14 may face each other in the first direction, one side wall 12R and the other side wall 12L. may face each other in the second direction.

An inlet H1 and an outlet H2 may be formed in the tub 12 . The outlet H2 may be located lower than the inlet H1. Here, the lower portion may mean a lower height than the inlet (H1).

Accordingly, since the hot dry air introduced into the washing space 12S through the outlet H2 is discharged to the outside of the washing space 12S through the inlet H1 at a higher position than the outlet H2, dry air (eg, , hot dry air) can be discharged after effectively circulating the inside of the washing space 12S. Accordingly, drying efficiency can be improved.

An example of the location of the outlet (H2) and the inlet (H1) will be described in detail as follows.

One side wall 12R of the tub 12 is divided into rear portions R11, R12, R13, central portions R21, R22, R23, and front portions R31, R32, R33 in the first direction or the front-rear direction. can be The point dividing the rear portion and the central portion of the one side wall 12R may be a point that is approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of the width of the one side wall 12R in the front from the rear end of the one side wall 12R. A point dividing the front portion and the central portion of the one side wall 12R may be a point that is approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of the width of the one side wall 12R from the front end of the one side wall 12R to the rear.

In addition, one side wall 12R of the tub 12 is divided into upper parts R11, R21, R31, central parts R12, R22, R32, and lower parts R13, R23, R33 in the vertical or vertical direction. can The point dividing the upper part and the central part of the one side wall 12R may be a point that is approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of the height of the one side wall 12R downward from the upper end of the one side wall 12R. The point dividing the lower part and the central part of the one side wall 12R may be a point that is approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of the height of the one side wall 12R upward from the lower end of the one side wall 12R.

Accordingly, the one side wall 12R of the tub 12 is a rear upper portion R11, a rear central portion R12, a rear lower portion R13, a central upper portion R21, and a central portion R22 in the first direction and the vertical direction. , the central lower part R23, the front upper part R31, the front central part R32, and the front lower part R33 may be divided into nine regions.

The bottom 12B of the tub 12 is also in the first direction and in the second direction in a similar manner to the one side wall 12R, the rear one side part B11, the rear central part B12, the other rear side part B13, the center It may be divided into nine regions: one side portion B21 , the central portion B22 , the other central side portion B23 , the front one side portion B31 , the front central portion B32 , and the front other side portion B33 .

An inlet H1 through which air from the washing space 12S flows into the drying duct 110 may be formed in the rear upper part R11 of the one side wall 12R of the tub 12 . In addition, an outlet H2 through which the air inside the drying duct 110 flows into the washing space 12S may be formed in the rear one side B11 of the bottom 12B of the tub 12 .

Accordingly, since both the outlet (H2) and the inlet (H1) are formed on one rear side of the tub (12), the horizontal distance between the outlet (H2) and the inlet (H1) may be reduced. In addition, since the outlet H2 is formed on the bottom 12B and the inlet H1 is formed on the upper portion of the one side wall 12R, the vertical distance between the outlet H2 and the inlet H1 may be increased.

In general, in order to introduce air into a specific space and allow the introduced air to circulate effectively inside the space, i) prevent the air introduced from the inlet from flowing directly toward the outlet, and ii) the horizontal distance between the inlet and outlet of air should be reduced and the vertical distance should be increased.

As described above, since ii) is satisfied, the washing space ( 12S) The drying efficiency can be improved because it can effectively circulate the inside to every corner. Meanwhile, i) may be satisfied through the distributor 150 .

In addition, since both the outlet H2 and the inlet H1 are formed at the rear of the tub 12 , the drying duct 110 is disposed around the rear of the tub 12 , and cold air is supplied around the front of the tub 12 . A module 120 may be disposed. Since the periphery of the rear of the tub 12 is generally blocked by a wall, and the periphery of the front of the tub 12 (in particular, the lower front of the tub) is open to the front, the temperature of the air around the front of the tub 12 may be lower. Accordingly, since the cold air supply module 120 can effectively lower the humidity of the air inside the drying duct 110 with the cold air around the front of the tub 12, drying performance can be improved.

In addition, since the outlet H2 is formed in the rear of the tub 12 , the distributor 150 of the drying apparatus 100 may be disposed in the rear of the tub 12 . Therefore, when the door 14 in front of the tub 12 is opened, since the distributor 150 of the drying apparatus 100 does not obstruct the view, the aesthetics can be improved, and by the distributor 150 of the drying apparatus 100 Various devices inside the tub 12 can be easily managed without being disturbed.

However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Accordingly, positions at which the outlet port H2 and the inlet port H1 are formed are not limited to a specific region partitioned in the first direction, the second direction, or the vertical direction. In addition, it is not limited to the one side wall 12R and the bottom 12B.

The outlet H2 passes through the inlet H1 and may meet a virtual vertical surface S extending in the second direction and the vertical direction. For example, the center of the outlet H2 may pass through the center of the inlet H1 and meet the virtual vertical surface S extending in the second direction. The meaning that the outlet H2 meets the vertical surface S is as follows.

Outlet ( H2) is an outlet H2 that meets the virtual vertical surface S.

When the outlet (H2) meets the vertical surface (S), the horizontal distance between the outlet (H2) formed in the bottom (12B) of the tub (12) and the inlet (H1) formed in one side wall (12R) of the tub (12) can be minimized. Therefore, the washing space ( 12S) It can effectively circulate inside to every nook and cranny. Accordingly, drying efficiency can be further improved.

3 to 7 , the drying apparatus 100 according to an embodiment includes a drying duct 110 , a cold air supply module 120 , a fan 130 , a heater 140 , and a distributor 150 . can be configured. In addition, the drying apparatus 100 may further include a switch 160 ( FIGS. 16 to 22 ). However, in the drying apparatus 100 , the cold air supply module 120 , the heater 140 , or the distributor 150 may be omitted. Let's take a look at each configuration.

[Drying duct]

The drying duct 110 communicates with the inlet H1 and the outlet H2 , is disposed outside the tub 12 , and may include a condensation duct 112 and a return duct 114 .

Accordingly, since the condensation duct 112 is in contact with the low-temperature outdoor air outside the tub 12 , water vapor contained in the air flowing along the condensation duct 112 is condensed and removed with water. Therefore, the drying performance can be improved at low cost with a simple configuration.

The drying duct 110 may be formed with a drain hole penetrating the duct wall. For example, the first drain hole D1 may be formed in a first condensation duct 1122 to be described later, and the second drain hole D2 may be formed in a second condensation duct 1124 to be described later, and a third drain hole ( D3) may be formed in the return duct 114 to be described later. The drain hole will be described later.

The condensation duct 112 may be configured to include a first condensation duct 1122 and a second condensation duct 1124 .

[First condensing duct]

The first condensing duct 1122 may be disposed on one side wall 12R. Specifically, the first condensing duct 1122 may face or contact the outer surface or the outer peripheral surface of the one side wall 12R. The upstream end 1122U of the first condensing duct 1122 may be in communication with the inlet H1.

Accordingly, since the condensation duct 112 is in contact with the low-temperature air outside the one side wall 12R of the tub 12, water vapor contained in the air flowing along the condensation duct 112 is condensed and removed with water. Therefore, the drying performance can be improved at low cost with a simple configuration.

Specifically, for example, the first condensing duct 1122 may include a first upstream duct 1122A, a heat exchange duct 1122B, and a first downstream duct 1122C in order along the flow direction of air. (FIGS. 5 and 7). The first upstream duct 1122A, the heat exchange duct 1122B, and the first downstream duct 1122C may be three duct sections of the first condensing duct 1122 .

The first upstream duct 1122A may communicate with the inlet H1 and air may be introduced thereinto.

The heat exchange duct 1122B may be in contact with the cold air supply module 120 .

The first downstream duct 1122C may communicate with the second condensing duct 1124 , and may discharge air through the second condensing duct 1124 .

A first drain port D1 may be formed in the first downstream duct 1122C. Accordingly, since water introduced through the inlet H1 or condensed water from the heat exchange duct 1122B, etc. can be discharged to the outside through the first drain port D1, the drying performance of the drying apparatus 100 can be improved. there is.

A suction fan (not shown) may be provided at or around the upstream end 1122U of the first condensing duct 1122 . The suction fan may correspond to a centrifugal fan. Accordingly, the drying performance can be improved by smoothing air flow, and the length of the first condensing duct 1122 can be minimized laterally by providing a centrifugal fan, thereby reducing the size of the dishwasher 1 .

The downstream end 1122D of the first condensing duct 1122 may be located near the lower end of the rear portion of the one side wall 12R of the tub 12 . In this regard, it will be described later.

First look at the cold air supply module 120 related to the first condensing duct 1122, and then look at the second condensing duct 1124.

[Cold air supply module]

The cold air supply module 120 may be disposed outside the tub 12 . At least a portion of the cold air supply module 120 may be in contact with the first condensing duct 1122 .

Specifically, for example, the cold air supply module 120 may be configured to include a first outdoor air inlet duct 122 , a second outdoor air inlet duct 124 , and a heat exchange passage unit 126 ( FIGS. 5 and 7 ). ).

The first outdoor air inlet duct 122 may be disposed under the bottom 12B of the tub 12 , and external air may be introduced through the upstream end 122U.

The second outdoor air inlet duct 124 may face or come into contact with the outer circumferential surface of one side wall 12R of the tub 12, and the upstream end 124U may communicate with the downstream end 122D of the first outdoor air inlet duct 122. can

The heat exchange passage part 126 may be in contact with the first condensing duct 1122 , and the upstream end 126U may communicate with the downstream end 124D of the second outdoor air inlet duct 124 .

Specifically, for example, the heat exchange passage part 126 may extend along the outer peripheral surface of the first condensing duct 1122 . The downstream end 126D of the heat exchange passage part 126 may be located substantially parallel to the end 1122E in the width direction (the first direction in the drawing) of the first condensing duct 1122 in the second direction (FIG. 7). and Fig. 9). Air may be discharged to the outside through the downstream end 126D of the heat exchange passage part 126 .

Accordingly, the heat exchange passage unit 126 can be configured at low cost with a simple configuration, and the installation space of the heat exchange passage unit 126 can be minimized. In addition, since the length of the heat exchange flow passage part 126 is shortened, flow resistance is reduced and cooling performance can be improved.

The cooling fan 128 may be provided around the upstream end 122U of the first outdoor air inlet duct 122 or inside the first outdoor air inlet duct 122 . The cooling fan 128 may suck in outside air and supply it to the heat exchange passage unit 126 .

Accordingly, since the cooling fan 128 may be disposed under the tub 12 , the cooling fan 128 may suck in the cold air under the tub 12 and supply it to the heat exchange passage unit 126 , thereby cooling efficiency. This can be improved. In addition, since the lower space of the tub 12 is relatively wide, the cooling efficiency can be improved by increasing the size of the cooling fan 128 .

Meanwhile, a first connection duct 123 may be disposed between the first outdoor air inlet duct 122 and the second outdoor air inlet duct 124 . The first connection duct 123 may communicate with the downstream end 122D of the first outdoor air inlet duct 122 and the upstream end 124U of the second outdoor air inlet duct 124 ( FIG. 7 ).

As such, the dishwasher may further include a cold air supply module 120 disposed outside the tub 12 and at least a portion of which is in contact with the first condensing duct 1122 . Accordingly, the cold air supply module 120 may condense water vapor contained in the air flowing along the first condensing duct 1122 to effectively remove it. Therefore, the drying performance can be improved at low cost with a simple configuration.

In addition, the cold air supply module 120 is disposed under the bottom 12B of the tub 12 and the first outside air inlet duct 122 through which outside air is introduced, the outer surface of one side wall 12R of the tub 12 . Alternatively, the second outdoor air inlet duct 124 and the first condensing duct 1122 that face or come into contact with the outer circumferential surface are configured to include a heat exchange passage part 126 that is in communication with the second outdoor air inlet duct 124, so that the tub 12 ) The water vapor contained in the air flowing along the first outdoor air inlet duct 122 with the cold air below can be condensed with water to effectively remove it. Therefore, the drying performance can be improved at low cost with a simple configuration.

With respect to the heat exchange passage unit 126 , FIGS. 8 and 9 will be further described.

Referring to FIG. 8 , the first upstream duct 1122A, the first downstream duct 1122C, and the second outdoor air inlet duct 124 may be integrally formed. An empty space may be formed between the first upstream duct 1122A and the first downstream duct 1122C. In the empty space between the first upstream duct 1122A and the first downstream duct 1122C, the heat exchange duct 1122B and the heat exchange flow passage 126 to be seen in FIG. 9 may be installed.

As described above, since the first upstream duct 1122A, the first downstream duct 1122C, and the second outdoor air inlet duct 124 are integrally formed, the manufacturing cost of the drying apparatus 100 can be reduced, and installation and maintenance are performed. can be facilitated.

Referring to FIG. 9 , a heat exchange duct 1122B and a heat exchange passage part 126 may be installed between the first upstream duct 1122A and the first downstream duct 1122C in the structure of FIG. 8 .

The heat exchange duct 1122B may correspond to a flat tube shape with both ends open and may communicate vertically with the first upstream duct 1122A and the first downstream duct 1122C of FIG. 8 .

The heat exchange passage unit 126 may include a plate 1262 and a partition wall 1264 .

The plate 1262 may be disposed to face at least one of one surface and the other surface of the heat exchange duct 1122B in the second direction.

A plurality of partition walls 1264 may be provided, and may be disposed parallel to each other between one or the other surface of the heat exchange duct 1122B in the second direction and the plate 1262 .

The plate 1262 and the plurality of partition walls 1264 are along the outer peripheral surface of the heat exchange duct 1122B, and intersect the flow direction of the air flowing inside the heat exchange duct 1122B in the width direction (in the drawing) of the heat exchange duct 1122B. in the first direction).

When the heat exchange duct 1122B and the heat exchange flow passage 126 of FIG. 9 are installed in the empty space between the first upstream duct 1122A and the first downstream duct 1122C of the structure of FIG. 8, the second outdoor air inlet duct ( The downstream end 124D of the 124 may be in contact with the side end of the plate 1262 and the heat exchange duct 1122B in the first direction. Accordingly, the cold air introduced into the second outdoor air inlet duct 124 may flow into an empty space between the plate 1262 and the heat exchange duct 1122B. At this time, a plurality of flow paths may be formed between the plate 1262 and the heat exchange duct 1122B by a plurality of partition walls 1264 extending in the width direction (the first direction in the drawing) of the heat exchange duct 1122B. .

That is, the cold air introduced into the second outdoor air inlet duct 124 may flow along a plurality of flow paths formed by the heat exchange duct 1122B, the plate 1262 , and the plurality of partition walls 1264 . A direction in which the cold air flows along the plurality of flow passages formed by the heat exchange flow passage part 126 may cross a direction in which the moist air flows along the heat exchange duct 1122B.

At this time, as described above, the downstream end 126D of the heat exchange passage part 126 is substantially parallel to the end 1122E of the first condensing duct 1122 in the width direction (the first direction in the drawing) in the second direction. It can be located in a convenient way (FIG. 9).

In this way, the plate 1262 and the heat exchange duct 1122B on which the heat exchange passage part 126 faces at least one surface among the one surface and the other surface in the second direction of the heat exchange duct 1122B are disposed on one surface or in the second direction of the heat exchange duct 1122B. By including a plurality of partition walls 1264 disposed in parallel with each other between the other surface and the plate 1262 , the heat exchange passage unit 126 can be configured with a simple configuration and low cost. In addition, since cold air flows along the outer peripheral surface of the heat exchange duct 1122B, heat exchange efficiency can be improved. In addition, since cold air is separated from each other and flows along a plurality of flow paths, heat exchange is performed evenly over a wide area, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 9, after separately manufacturing the heat exchange duct 1122B and the heat exchange flow passage 126, the drying device is installed between the first upstream duct 1122A and the first downstream duct 1122C of the structure of FIG. (100) can be easily manufactured, replaced, or repaired. Accordingly, manufacturing cost can be reduced and maintenance can be facilitated.

[Second condensing duct]

10 is a perspective view illustrating a second connection duct, a second condensing duct, a return duct, a fan housing, a heater, and a distributor according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 11 to 13 are a second connection duct according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2It is a perspective view, a plan view, and a cross-sectional view showing the downstream duct, the return duct, the fan housing, and the heater. 14 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a second downstream duct, a return duct, a fan housing, a heater, and a distributor according to an embodiment of the present invention. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which fan blades and a motor are installed in the fan housing of FIG. 13 .

10 to 15 , the second condensing duct 1124 may be disposed under the bottom 12B of the tub 12 . The upstream end 1124U of the second condensing duct 1124 may communicate with the downstream end 1122D of the first condensing duct 1122 ( FIG. 7 ). The downstream end 1124D of the second condensing duct 1124 may communicate with the outlet H2 or the upstream end 114U of the return duct 114 .

Accordingly, since the condensation duct 112 is in contact with the low-temperature air under the bottom 12B of the tub 12, water vapor contained in the air flowing along the condensation duct 112 is condensed and removed with water. Therefore, the drying performance can be improved at low cost with a simple configuration.

Specifically, for example, the second condensing duct 1124 may be configured to include a second upstream duct 1124A and a second downstream duct 1124B along the flow direction of air ( FIGS. 7 and 10 ). The second upstream duct 1124A and the second downstream duct 1124B may be two duct sections of the second condensing duct 1124 .

The second upstream duct 1124A may communicate with the downstream end 1122D of the first condensing duct 1122 ( FIGS. 5 , 7 and 10 ). The second upstream duct 1124A may be formed to be inclined substantially downward along the air flow direction.

The second downstream duct 1124B may communicate with the upstream end 114U of the return duct 114 . The second downstream duct 1124B may be formed to be substantially parallel to a horizontal plane or inclined upward along the air flow direction.

However, it is not limited to this configuration. For example, the second condensing duct 1124 may consist of only a section parallel to the horizontal plane or inclined upward like the second downstream duct 1124B. In this case, the second downstream duct 1124B may be the second condensing duct 1124 .

The inclination of the second downstream duct 1124B may be smaller than that of the second upstream duct 1124A or the first condensing duct 1122 .

The height of the lower surface of the second downstream duct 1124B may gradually increase from the vicinity of the upstream end 1124BU of the second downstream duct 1124B to the vicinity of the downstream end 1124BD. Specifically, for example, the height of the lower surface of the second downstream duct 1124B may gradually increase from the upstream side to the downstream side of the second downstream duct 1124B.

Accordingly, water flowing into the second downstream duct 1124B or generated in the second downstream duct 1124B flows away from the fan 130 disposed near the downstream end 1124BD of the second downstream duct 1124B. Therefore, it is possible to prevent water from flowing into the motor 136 of the fan 130 . Accordingly, since it is possible to prevent the fan 130 from being damaged by water, durability and stability of the drying apparatus 100 may be improved.

In addition, since water accumulates near the upstream end 1124BU of the second downstream duct 1124B, if the second drain hole D2 is formed near the upstream end 1124BU of the second downstream duct 1124B, water can be drained quickly and easily. and can be effectively expelled. In particular, when the water collects quickly, the opening/closing device 170, which will be described later, is pressurized and the water is rapidly discharged, so that the drying performance can be improved. In addition, since water can be quickly collected and discharged effectively, the size of the second drain hole D2 and the switch 170 can be reduced. Accordingly, manufacturing and management costs can be reduced, and since the second drain port D2 can be stably opened and closed, drying efficiency and energy efficiency can be improved. In addition, since water is rapidly discharged and the humidity of the second downstream duct 1124B is lowered, it is possible to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold inside the second downstream duct 1124B.

Specifically, for example, the lower surface of the second downstream duct 1124B may preferably have an inclination of 7 degrees or more. When the fan 130 stops operating when the inclination is 7 degrees or more, the water accumulated on the inner wall surface of the second downstream duct 1124B rides on the inclined surface (lower surface) of the second downstream duct 1124B to the second downstream It can flow quickly near the upstream end 1124BU of the duct 1124B. Accordingly, the water inside the second downstream duct 1124B is discharged quickly, easily and effectively to lower the humidity of the second downstream duct 1124B, thereby preventing the growth of bacteria or mold inside the second downstream duct 1124B. there is.

The second condensing duct 1124 may be bent near the downstream end 1124D to extend in an approximately vertical direction (eg, upward). Accordingly, water introduced into the second condensation duct 1124 or generated in the second condensation duct 1124 can be prevented from flowing into the return duct 114 .

However, it is not limited to this configuration. Accordingly, the second condensing duct 1124 may extend near the downstream end 1124D, for example, bent in the horizontal direction.

The horizontal linear distance d1 between the upstream end 1124U and the downstream end 1124D of the second condensing duct 1124 is the horizontal distance between the upstream end 1124U and the outlet H2 of the second condensing duct 1124. It may be greater than the direction linear distance d2 (FIG. 6). For example, the downstream end 1124D of the second condensing duct 1124 may be positioned beyond the midpoint in the second direction of the bottom 12B of the tub 12 ( FIG. 6 ).

Accordingly, even when the outlet (H2) is formed near the inlet (H1) in the horizontal direction to improve drying performance, the return communicating with the downstream end (1124D) and the outlet (H2) of the second condensing duct (1124) The horizontal length of the duct 114 may be increased, and the distance between the downstream end 1124D of the second condensing duct 1124 and the upstream end 114U of the return duct 114 may be increased. Accordingly, a heater 350 having a sufficiently large size may be disposed inside or outside the return duct 114, the downstream end 1124D of the second condensing duct 1124 and the upstream end of the return duct 114 ( A fan 130 may be provided between the 114U. Accordingly, the drying performance of the dishwasher 1 may be improved with a simple configuration, and the dishwasher 1 may have a small size and a compact structure.

The downstream end 1122D of the first condensing duct 1122 is located near the lower end of the rear portion of the one side wall 12R of the tub 12, as described above, and the upstream end 1124U of the second condensing duct 1124. may be located near one end of the rear portion of the bottom 12B of the tub 12 ( FIGS. 3 , 5 and 7 ). For example, the downstream end 1122D of the first condensing duct 1122 is located adjacent to the rear lower portion R13 of the one side wall 12R of the tub 12, and the upstream end 1122D of the second condensing duct 1124 ( 1124U) may be located adjacent to the rear side portion B11 of the bottom 12B of the tub 12 . For example, the downstream end 1122D of the first condensing duct 1122 is located in the rear lower portion R13 of the nine regions R11 to R33 of the one side wall 12R of the tub 12 (R11 to R33, FIG. 2 or FIG. 3 ). may be the closest. Accordingly, the downstream end 1122D of the first condensing duct 1122 may be located near the lower end of the rear portion of the one side wall 12R of the tub 12 . In addition, the upstream end 1124U of the second condensing duct 1124 is on one rear side part B11 of the nine areas (B11 to B33, FIG. 2 or FIG. 3 ) of the bottom surface 12B of the tub 12 . may be the closest. Accordingly, the upstream end 1124U of the second condensing duct 1124 may be located near one end of the rear portion of the bottom 12B of the tub 12 . Accordingly, the downstream end 1122D of the first condensing duct 1122 and the upstream end 1124U of the second condensing duct 1124 are both the inlet H1 and the outlet port H2 at the rear of the tub 12 . Because it is located in, the condensation duct 112 can be formed in a shape close to an approximately straight line, and the length can be shortened. Accordingly, the flow resistance may be reduced and the drying performance may be improved.

The second condensing duct 1124 may have a second drain hole D2 ( FIG. 13 ) penetrating through the duct wall of the second condensing duct 1124 . Accordingly, since the water introduced through the inlet (H1) or the outlet (H2) or the water condensed in the condensation duct 112 can be discharged to the outside through the second drain port (D2), the drying apparatus 100 Drying performance can be improved. In addition, since the humidity inside the second condensation duct 1124 is lowered, it is possible to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold therein. In addition, since it is possible to prevent water from flowing into the motor or heater 140 of the fan 130 , it is possible to prevent the fan 130 or the heater 140 from malfunctioning or malfunctioning due to water.

In addition, a water retention groove (P) may be formed on the lower surface of the second condensing duct (1124). The second drain hole (D2) may be formed to penetrate the duct wall at the lower end of the water retention groove (P) in the vertical direction.

Accordingly, water can be quickly and easily collected in the water sump P under the air flow path outside the air flow path, so that the water can be discharged quickly and effectively with a simple configuration. Accordingly, the drying performance is improved and the humidity is lowered, so that it is possible to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold inside. In addition, since water can be quickly and easily collected and discharged effectively, the size of the second drain hole D2 and the switch 170 can be reduced. Accordingly, manufacturing and management costs can be reduced, and since the second drain port D2 can be stably opened and closed, drying efficiency and energy efficiency can be improved.

The water retention groove (P) may be gradually reduced in cross-sectional area toward the bottom. Accordingly, water can be collected more quickly and easily and discharged effectively. Accordingly, the drying performance is improved and the humidity is lowered, so that it is possible to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold inside. In addition, since water can be quickly and easily collected and effectively discharged, the size of the second drain hole D2 and the switch 170 can be further reduced. Accordingly, manufacturing and management costs can be reduced, and since the second drain port D2 can be stably opened and closed, drying efficiency and energy efficiency can be improved.

The second drain port D2 may be opened normally or may be opened or closed according to circumstances. When the second drain (D2) is always open, air inside the drying duct 110 that is drier or warmer than the outside air is discharged to the outside through the second drain (D2), and pressure loss may occur. In addition, outside air cooler or humid than the air inside the drying duct 110 may be introduced into the drying duct 110 to decrease drying efficiency. Accordingly, energy efficiency or drying efficiency may be reduced. Therefore, since it may be desirable to open and close the second drain D2 according to circumstances, the switch 170 should be installed in the second drain D2.

The second drain port D2 and the switch 170 will be described later.

The second condensing duct 1124 may be provided with a water level sensor (not shown). The water level sensor may detect the height of the water collected on the lower surface of the second condensing duct 1124 , and may transmit information about the height of the water to the control unit.

Meanwhile, a second connection duct 1123 may be disposed between the first condensing duct 1122 and the second condensing duct 1124 . The second connection duct 1123 may communicate with the downstream end 1122D of the first condensing duct 1122 and the upstream end 1124U of the second condensing duct 1124 ( FIG. 7 ).

In this way, the condensation duct 112, the first condensation duct 1122 facing the outer surface of the one side wall 12R of the tub 12 and the upstream end communicates with the inlet (H1); and a second condensation duct 1124 disposed under the bottom 12B of the tub 12 and having an upstream end in communication with a downstream end of the first condensation duct 1122, whereby the condensation duct 112 is formed in the tub Since it comes into contact with low-temperature air on the outside of the one side wall 12R of 12 and the lower part of the bottom 12B, water vapor contained in the air flowing along the condensation duct 112 is condensed into water and removed. Therefore, the drying performance can be improved at low cost with a simple configuration.

[Return duct]

The return duct 114 may be located between the bottom 12B of the tub 12 and the second condensation duct 1124 . For example, at least a portion of the return duct 114 may be positioned vertically and vertically with the second condensing duct 1124 under the bottom 12B of the tub 12 . That is, at least a portion of the return duct 114 may be disposed on the second condensing duct 1124 .

Accordingly, it is possible to prevent water flowing into the second condensation duct 1124 through the inlet H1 or condensed in the condensation duct 112 from flowing into the return duct 114 . Accordingly, since it is possible to prevent the water of the condensation duct 112 from flowing into the washing space 12S through the outlet H2 communicating with the return duct 114, drying performance can be improved. That is, the drying performance can be improved by preventing the backflow of water.

In addition, in the return duct 114 , the upstream end 114U may communicate with the downstream end 1124D of the second condensing duct 1124 , and the downstream end 114D may communicate with the outlet H2 .

For example, the downstream end 114D of the return duct 114 is inserted into the washing space 12S through the outlet H2 to communicate with the distributor 150 for discharging air into the washing space 12S. can

The second condensing duct 1124 and the return duct 114 may be located only under the rear portions B11, B12, and B13 of the bottom 12B of the tub 12 . Accordingly, since the second condensing duct 1124 and the return duct 114 are located at the rear of the tub 12 like the outlet H2 and the inlet H1, the second condensing duct 1124 and the return duct ( 114 may be formed in a shape close to a substantially straight line, and the lengths of the

ducts

1124 and 114 may be reduced. Accordingly, the flow resistance may be reduced and drying performance may be improved. Also, the dishwasher 1 may have a small size and a compact structure.

The return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 may vertically contact each other at a predetermined point between the upstream and downstream ends of the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 .

Specifically, for example, at least a portion of the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 may be in contact with each other up and down in the longitudinal direction of the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 .

A single dividing wall W dividing the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 may be disposed at a predetermined point or part where the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 are in contact with each other. .

Specifically, for example, the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 may be divided into the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 by a dividing wall W disposed along the longitudinal direction of the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124. There is ( FIGS. 12 to 15 ).

Accordingly, the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 can be easily manufactured at low cost with a simple configuration.

In addition, since the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 are partitioned by a single dividing wall W, a portion of the heat generated by the heater 140 disposed inside the return duct 114 is transferred to the second condensing duct. (1124) can be easily transferred. Therefore, since a small amount of water inside the second condensation duct 1124 is vaporized by the heat transferred to the second condensation duct 1124 and the humidity of the second condensation duct 1124 is lowered, the inside of the second condensation duct 1124 is It can prevent the growth of bacteria or fungi.

The return duct 114 may have a third drain port D3 ( FIG. 13 ) formed therein. Specifically, at the predetermined point or part where the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 are in contact with each other, a third drain (D3) communicating with the inside of the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 can be formed. For example, the third drain hole D3 may be formed through the partition wall W described above.

When the third drain (D3) is formed in the return duct 114, water introduced through the outlet (H2) or water condensed in the return duct (114) is discharged through the third drain (D3) to the return duct (114) Since it can be discharged to the outside, the drying performance of the drying apparatus 100 can be improved with a simple configuration.

Here, the outside of the return duct 114 may be the inside of the second condensing duct 1124 (FIG. 13). Accordingly, when water introduced into the return duct 114 through the outlet H2 or water condensed in the return duct 114 is discharged to the outside of the return duct 114 through the third drain port D3, the second condensation It may flow into the duct 1124 .

Like the second drain port D2 described above, the third drain D3 may be preferably opened or closed according to circumstances in order to prevent a decrease in energy efficiency or drying efficiency.

However, as shown in the drawing, when the third drain port D3 is formed at the predetermined point or part where the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 come into contact with each other, the third drain hole D3 is always open. can be

Even if the third drain (D3) is always open, the air flowing along the return duct (114) is not discharged to the outside of the drying duct (110) through the third drain (D3), but rather the second of the drying duct (110). Since it is discharged to the condensation duct 1124, there is no loss of dry or warm air to the outside and no pressure loss to the outside, so that energy efficiency or drying efficiency may not be greatly reduced.

That is, when the third drain port D3 is formed at the predetermined point or part where the return duct 114 and the second condensing duct 1124 contact each other, the third drain port D3 is opened and closed at the third drain port D3. There is no need to install a separate configuration such as the switch 170 to be described later. Accordingly, the configuration of the drying apparatus 100 may be simplified and manufacturing, installation, and maintenance costs may be reduced.

In addition, when the third drain (D3) is always open, water generated or flowing on the lower surface of the return duct (114) is discharged into the second condensing duct (1124) through the third drain (D3), so the return duct (114) Water does not collect at the bottom. Accordingly, even when the heater 140 is disposed inside the return duct 114 , it is possible to prevent a large amount of water from being vaporized into water vapor by the heater 140 and thus the humidity of the air from increasing. Accordingly, drying performance may be improved. In addition, since the above-described water level sensor does not need to be provided in the return duct 114 and only needs to be provided in the second condensing duct 1124, manufacturing/management costs can be reduced.

[Pan]

The fan 130 may be disposed on a downstream side of the second drain port D2. Here, the downstream side may mean a downstream side of the air flow path flowing from the inlet H1 to the outlet H2 along the drying duct 110 . Since the second drain hole D2 is formed in the second condensation duct 1124 , the fan 130 may be formed on a downstream side of the second drain hole D2 among the second condensation ducts 1124 . In addition, the fan 130 may be formed near the downstream end 1124D of the second condensing duct 1124 or the return duct 114 .

For example, the fan 130 may be provided between the downstream end 1124D of the condensation duct 112 and the downstream end 114D of the return duct 114 . Specifically, for example, as shown in the drawing, the fan 130 may be disposed between the second condensing duct 1124 and the return duct 114 .

Accordingly, the fan 130 can prevent the occurrence of a vortex in the downstream of the drying duct 110 (eg, between the condensation duct and the return duct) in which the change in the flow direction of air is large and facilitate the flow of air. Accordingly, since the flow resistance of the air does not increase, the drying performance of the drying apparatus 100 may be improved.

In addition, since the fan 130 is disposed on the downstream side of the second drain hole D2 , a negative pressure may be formed in the second drain hole D2 . In this regard, it will be described later.

The fan 130 may communicate with the second condensing duct 1124 (FIG. 15). For example, the fan 130 may communicate downwardly with the downstream end 1124D of the second condensing duct 1124 .

Also, the fan 130 may communicate with the return duct 114 ( FIG. 15 ). For example, the fan 130 may communicate laterally with the upstream end 114U of the return duct 114 .

The fan 130 may be disposed above the downstream end 1124D of the second condensing duct 1124 (FIG. 15).

Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the motor 136 of the fan 130 from flowing into the condensation duct 112 or contacting water condensed in the condensation duct 112 . Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the fan 130 from malfunctioning due to the inflow of water into the motor 136 of the fan 130 , so that the durability and stability of the drying apparatus 100 can be improved.

The fan 130 may flow the air inside the drying duct 110 . For example, the fan 130 may suck in air from an upstream side of the fan 130 and introduce it to a downstream side of the fan 130 .

Accordingly, the fan 130 may form a negative pressure on the upstream side of the fan 130 by sucking in air on the upstream side of the fan 130 , and discharge the air on the downstream side of the fan 130 to the fan 130 . A positive pressure can be formed on the downstream side of Here, the negative pressure may be an atmospheric pressure lower than atmospheric pressure, and the positive pressure may be an atmospheric pressure higher than atmospheric pressure.

When the fan 130 is operated or the strength of the fan 130 is strong, a negative pressure is formed on the upstream side of the fan 130, so that when the second drain port D2 is opened, Air may be introduced into the second condensing duct 1124 . However, when the switch 170 is installed in the second drain port D2, the switch 170 may move by negative pressure to close the second drain hole D2. In this regard, it will be described later.

On the other hand, if the fan 130 stops working or the intensity of the fan 130 is weak, the negative pressure is not formed on the upstream side of the fan 130, so the switch 170 moves to the original position to close the second drain port D2. can be opened

Here, the intensity of the fan 130 may be the operating intensity or the blowing intensity of the fan 130 .

The fan 130 may include a fan blade 132 , a fan housing 134 , and a motor 136 .

The fan blade 132 may be fixedly coupled to the rotation shaft 138 and may be rotated by a motor 136 . The fan wings 132 may be accommodated in the fan housing 134 .

The fan housing 134 may communicate with the downstream end 1124D of the second condensing duct 1124 and the upstream end 114U of the return duct 114 .

For example, the fan housing 134 may have a through hole formed in its lower surface to communicate downwardly with the downstream end 1124D of the second condensing duct 1124 ( FIG. 15 ). In addition, the fan housing 134 may have a through hole formed in the side thereof to communicate laterally with the upstream end 114U of the return duct 114 ( FIG. 15 ).

The fan housing 134 may include an upper wall 134T. The upper wall 134T may be disposed between the fan blades 132 and the motor 136 disposed on the fan blades 132 .

Accordingly, even when the fan blades 132 come into contact with water introduced into the return duct 114 through the outlet H2, the water in contact with the fan blades 132 is blocked by the upper wall 134T and the motor 136). may not be able to contact Accordingly, since it is possible to prevent the fan 130 from malfunctioning due to water flowing into the motor 136 , durability and stability of the drying apparatus 100 may be improved.

A hole through which the rotation shaft 138 passes may be formed in the upper wall 134T.

The motor 136 may be coupled to the fan blade 132 via the rotation shaft 138 . The motor 136 may rotate the fan blade 132 .

The motor 136 may be disposed on the fan blade 132 . Also, the motor 136 may be disposed on the upper wall 134T.

The rotation shaft 138 of the fan 130 may extend in an approximately vertical direction.

Accordingly, since the fan 130 can be installed lying down between the second condensing duct 1124 and the return duct 114, the fan 130 having a sufficiently large size can be installed even if the installation space or installation location is limited. . Accordingly, with a simple configuration, the drying performance of the dishwasher 1 may be improved at low cost, and the dishwasher 1 may have a small size and a compact structure. In this case, the fan 130 may be a centrifugal fan. In addition, since the motor 136 can be disposed on the upper portion of the fan blade 132 , it is possible to prevent water from flowing into the motor 136 .

[heater]

The heater 140 may be provided between the downstream end 1124D of the condensation duct 112 and the downstream end 114D of the return duct 114 . For example, the heater 140 may be disposed in the return duct 114 .

Accordingly, the heater 140 heats the air in the downstream (eg, return duct) of the drying duct 110 close to the outlet H2 and discharges the high-temperature and dry air to the washing space 12S, so it is a simple configuration and low cost. Drying performance can be improved.

The heater 140 may be disposed inside the return duct 114 ( FIGS. 10 to 15 ). However, it is not limited to this configuration. For example, unlike the drawing, the heater 140 may be disposed adjacent to the return duct 114 and outside the return duct 114 .

In this way, since the heater 140 is disposed inside the return duct 114, the air can be effectively heated in the return duct 114 close to the outlet H2 without heat loss, so that the inside of the washing space 12S The leaked heated air can effectively remove moisture remaining on dishes, etc. inside the washing space 12S. Accordingly, the drying performance can be improved at a low cost with a simple configuration.

In addition, since the heater 140 is disposed inside the return duct 114, the heater 140 flows into the condensation duct 112 or is located far away without contact with the water condensed in the condensation duct 112, It is possible to prevent the heat generated by the heater 140 from vaporizing a large amount of water collected in the condensation duct 112 . Accordingly, since the air inside the return duct 114 can flow out into the washing space 12S in a high temperature and dry state, drying performance can be improved.

The heater 140 may heat the air inside the drying duct 110 .

In this way, the drying apparatus 100 is configured to include the drying duct 110 , the fan 130 and the heater 140 , the drying duct 110 is disposed outside the tub 12 , and the condensation duct 112 . And by including the return duct 114, the drying performance can be improved at a low cost with a simple configuration.

[Distributor]

The dispenser 150 may be configured to include an insert 152 and a lid 154, as shown in FIG. 14 .

The lower end of the insertion unit 152 may communicate with the downstream end 114D of the return duct 114 , and the upper end of the insertion unit 152 may be coupled to the lid 374 . The insertion part 152 may be installed through the outlet H2 formed in the bottom 12B of the tub 12 .

Through the insertion part 152 , the air heated in the return duct 114 may be introduced into the washing space 12S.

The lid 154 may be installed on the upper end of the insertion part 152 and may be disposed inside the washing space 12S.

The lid 154 may prevent water in the washing space 12S from flowing into the insertion part 152 and the return duct 114 .

In addition, the lid 154 may prevent the air exiting the insertion part 152 from facing upward in the vertical direction when the air flows into the washing space 12S. Accordingly, since i) described above is satisfied, the washing space 12S until the dry air leaked into the washing space 12S through the outlet H2 flows into the drying apparatus 100 through the inlet H1. The drying efficiency can be improved because it can effectively circulate the inside to every corner.

[Switch and 2nd drain port]

16 and 17 are cross-sectional and partial perspective views illustrating a state in which the switchgear according to an embodiment of the present invention closes the second drain port of FIGS. 13 and 15, and FIGS. 18 and 19 are the switchgear of FIGS. 16 and 17 It is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the second drain port is opened. 20 to 22 are perspective views, front views, and side views illustrating the switchgear of FIGS. 16 to 19 .

16 to 19 , the switch 170 may be installed in the second drain port D2. The second drain hole D2 may include one or more first through-holes D2A and D2B and/or a second through-hole D2C penetrating the duct wall of the second condensing duct 1124 .

The switch 170 moves a predetermined distance in the penetration direction (up and down direction in the drawing) of the first through-holes D2A and D2B to close ( FIGS. 16 and 17 ) or open the second drain hole D2 ( FIGS. 16 and 17 ). 18 and 19).

Specifically, the switch 170 is, for example, the first through hole (D2A, D2A, according to the amount of water collected around the second drain hole (D2) or the second drain hole (D2) whether the operation or strength of the fan 130, The second drain port D2 may be opened and closed by moving a predetermined distance in the penetrating direction of the D2B.

For example, the fan 130 is disposed between the downstream end of the second condensing duct 1124 and the downstream end of the return duct 114, which is on the downstream side of the second drain D2, and the second drain D2 is connected to the second condensing duct. Formed in 1124 and when the switch 170 is installed in the second drain port D2, when the fan 130 operates or the fan 130 is strong, the second condensing duct 1124 has a sound pressure of sufficient strength. Since the switch 170 is formed, it is possible to close the second drain port D by moving a predetermined distance to the inside of the second condensing duct 1124 along the penetrating direction of the first through holes D2A and D2B.

On the other hand, if the fan 130 does not operate or the strength of the fan 130 is weak, the negative pressure of sufficient strength is not formed in the second condensing duct 1124, so that the switch 170 may lose its own weight or the second drain hole. (D2) or the second drain hole (D) by moving to the outside of the second condensing duct 1124 along the penetration direction of the first through hole (D2A, D2B) by the weight of the water collected around the second drain port (D2) can be opened

In addition, since the pressure due to the weight of the water applied to the switch 170 varies depending on the amount of water collected around the second drain D2 or the second drain D2, the switch 170 operates the second drain ( D) can be opened and closed.

For example, if the fan 130 is stopped while operating, since the negative pressure is no longer formed in the second condensing duct 1124, the water condensed on the inner wall surface of the second condensing duct 1124 by the negative pressure is condensed into the second condensate. Since it rides on the slope of the duct 1124 (the slope of the second downstream duct) and collects around the second drain D2, the switch 170 opens the second drain D by the weight of the collected water and the water is discharged to the outside. can be As another example, even if the fan 130 continues to operate, if water is sufficiently collected at or around the second drain D2, the pressure due to the water's own weight becomes greater than the negative pressure formed by the fan 130, so that the switch 170 opens the second By opening the drain port (D), water can be discharged to the outside.

Accordingly, since the switch 170 opens and closes the second drain port D2 according to the direction of the pressure acting on the switch 170 , the structure of the switch 170 can be simplified and the switch 170 can be easily installed at low cost. can be manufactured. In addition, since the second drain port (D) is automatically opened and closed according to circumstances, drying efficiency and energy efficiency can be improved. In addition, since the water is discharged to lower the humidity, it is possible to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold inside the duct 1124 .

20 to 22 , the switch 170 extends upward from the upper surface of the blocking plate 172 and the blocking plate 172 for opening and closing the first through-holes D2A and D2B, and the body portion 1742 ) and may include one or more locking bodies 174 that are configured to include a head 1744 . The one or more locking bodies 174 may correspond to one or more first through holes D2A and D2B included in the second drain port D2, respectively.

The lower end of the body portion 1742 may be coupled to the blocking plate 172 and disposed to penetrate the first through-holes D2A and D2B. That is, each body portion 1742 constituting each of the locking bodies 174 may be disposed to penetrate through each of the first through-holes D2A and D2B corresponding to each of the locking bodies 174 . The head 1744 may be coupled to the upper end of the body 1742 . The length of the body portion 1742 may be longer than the length of the first through-holes D2A and D2B through which the body portion 1742 passes (in the vertical direction in the drawing). For example, the length of the body portion 1742 may be longer than the depth of the first through-holes D2A and D2B through which the body portion 1742 passes.

A cross-sectional area of the body portion 1742 may be smaller than a cross-sectional area of the first through-holes D2A and D2B through which the body portion 1742 passes. The maximum cross-sectional area of the head 1744 and the blocking plate 172 may be greater than the cross-sectional area of the first through-holes D2A and D2B through which the body 1742 passes.

Accordingly, the body portion 1742 of the locking body 174 penetrating the first through-holes D2A, D2B cannot escape the first through-holes D2A, D2B, and the first through-holes D2A and D2B. Water may be discharged and air may be introduced through the empty space between the body and the body 1742 , and the switch 170 may move a predetermined distance in the penetration direction of the first through holes D2A and D2B. Accordingly, the switch 170 that opens and closes the second drain port D2 according to the direction of the pressure acting on the switch 170 can be easily manufactured with a simple configuration at low cost. Here, the predetermined distance may be a difference value between the length of the body portion 1742 and the length of the first through-holes D2A and D2B in the penetrating direction.

The switch 170 may be formed of a rubber material.

The locking part 174 may be inserted through the first through-holes D2A and D2B in an interference fit manner. Specifically, the head 1744 may be inserted through the first through-holes D2A and D2B from the outside to the inside of the second condensing duct 1124 .

The head 1744 may include a height section HS1 ( FIG. 21 ) in which the cross-sectional area gradually decreases as the distance from the blocking plate 172 increases (ie, as the height from the blocking plate increases). That is, the head 1744 may include a height section HS1 ( FIG. 21 ) in which the cross-sectional area gradually decreases toward the upper portion away from the blocking plate 172 .

Accordingly, the head 1744 is inserted into the first through holes D2A and D2B from the upper part of the height section HS1 far from the blocking plate 172, and the lower part of the height section HS1 with a gradually large cross-sectional area moves downward. It can be easily and stably inserted into the first through-holes D2A and D2B while being elastically deformed. On the other hand, since the lower portion of the height section HS1 of the head portion 1744 close to the blocking plate 172 is difficult to elastically deform upward, the head portion 1744 passes through the first through holes D2A and D2B. The head 1744 cannot escape through the first through-holes D2A and D2B. Accordingly, the head 1744 may stably bind the switch 170 to the first through holes D2A and D2B.

Meanwhile, the second drain hole D2 may include a plurality of first through holes D2A and D2B. The at least two first through-holes (D2A, D2B) pass through the midpoint of the positions of the at least two first through-holes (D2A, D2B) and extend along the longitudinal direction of the second condensing duct 1124. An imaginary straight line ( It may be formed symmetrically on both sides with reference to L1 ( FIG. 16 ).

Accordingly, a plurality of locking bodies 174 penetrating the first through-holes D2A and D2B corresponding to the first through-holes D2A and D2B may also be provided in the blocking plate 172, and at least two locking bodies may be provided. 174 is a blocking plate 172 based on an imaginary straight line (L1, FIG. 16) extending along the longitudinal direction of the second condensing duct 1124 through the midpoint of the positions of the at least two locking bodies 174 It may be formed symmetrically on both sides of.

Accordingly, since the distances from the at least two locking bodies 174 to the fan 130 are similar to each other, even if a plurality of locking bodies 174 are provided on the blocking plate 172 , at least two The magnitude of the pressure applied to each of the dogs near the locking body 174 may be similar to each other. Accordingly, when the switch 170 moves a predetermined distance in the penetrating direction of the first through-holes D2A and D2B, the balance may be maintained without inclining to either side. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the opening and closing of the second drain D2 from not being performed because the switch 170 is obliquely caught in the second drain D2.

The second drain hole (D2) may be configured to further include a second through hole (D2C) penetrating the duct wall of the second condensation duct (1124). The blocking plate 172, whether or not the fan 130 operates or not, the amount of water collected in the first through holes (D2A, D2B) and the second through hole (D2C) or the first through holes (D2A, D2B) and The first through-holes D2A and D2B and the second through-hole D2C may be opened and closed according to the amount of water collected around the second through-hole D2C.

Unlike the first through-holes D2A and D2B, the body portion 1742 of the engaging body 174 is not inserted into the second through-hole D2C, and the head 1744 of the engaging body 174 is the second through-hole D2C. The through hole D2C may not be blocked.

Accordingly, water may be quickly and effectively discharged through the second through hole D2C. In addition, since the area in which the negative pressure of air or the water pressure of water acts on the switch 170 through the second through hole D2C increases, the total amount of force (external force) by the negative pressure or water pressure increases, so that the Opening and closing can be performed quickly and stably.

The second through-hole D2C may have a larger cross-sectional area than the first through-holes D2A and D2B. Accordingly, water may be discharged more quickly and effectively through the second through hole D2C. In addition, since the area where the negative pressure of air or the water pressure of water acts on the switch 170 through the second through hole D2C further increases, the total amount of force (external force) due to the negative pressure or water pressure increases, so that the second drain hole (D2) can be opened and closed more quickly and stably.

The second drain hole D2 includes a plurality of first through holes D2A and D2B, and the plurality of first through holes D2A and D2B are formed at approximately equiangular intervals with respect to the second through hole D2C. can be

Accordingly, a plurality of locking bodies 174 penetrating the first through holes D2A and D2B corresponding to the first through holes D2A and D2B may also be provided in the blocking plate 172, and a plurality of locking bodies ( 174 may be formed at approximately equiangular intervals on the blocking plate 172 around a predetermined position on the blocking plate 172 corresponding to the second through hole D2C.

Accordingly, the forces acting on the switch 170 through the plurality of first through-holes D2A and D2B arranged at equal angular intervals with respect to the second through-hole D2C are balanced without being concentrated on either side. can Therefore, even when a relatively large force is applied to the switch 170 through the second through hole D2C, when the switch 170 moves a predetermined distance in the through direction of the first through hole D2A, D2B, either one You can keep your balance without leaning. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the opening and closing of the second drain D2 from not being performed because the switch 170 is obliquely caught in the second drain D2.

The second drain hole (D2) includes two or more first through holes (D2A, D2B), and at least two first through holes (D2A, D2B) pass through the second through hole (D2C) and a second condensing duct ( 1124) may be formed symmetrically on both sides based on an imaginary straight line L1 (FIG. 16) extending along the longitudinal direction.

Accordingly, a plurality of locking bodies 174 penetrating the first through-holes D2A and D2B corresponding to the first through-holes D2A and D2B may also be provided in the blocking plate 172, and at least two locking bodies may be provided. 174 is an imaginary straight line (L1, Fig. 16) that passes through a predetermined position on the blocking plate 172 corresponding to the second through hole D2C and extends along the longitudinal direction of the second condensing duct 1124. As a result, it may be formed symmetrically on both sides of the blocking plate 172 .

Accordingly, the distances from the at least two locking bodies 174 to the fan 130 are similar to each other around a predetermined position on the blocking plate 172 corresponding to the second through hole D2C. Therefore, even if a large force is applied to the predetermined position through the second through hole D2C and a plurality of locking bodies 174 are provided on the blocking plate 172, at least two locking bodies ( 174) may be similar in magnitude to each other acting in the vicinity. Accordingly, when the switch 170 moves a predetermined distance in the penetrating direction of the first through-holes D2A and D2B, the balance may be maintained without inclining to either side. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the opening and closing of the second drain D2 from not being performed because the switch 170 is obliquely caught in the second drain D2.

At least two first through-holes D2A that pass through the second through-hole D2C and are formed symmetrically on both sides based on an imaginary straight line L1 (FIG. 16) extending along the longitudinal direction of the second condensing duct 1124 , D2B) and the second through hole D2C may be formed on a straight line L2 ( FIG. 16 ).

Accordingly, it passes through a predetermined position on the blocking plate 172 corresponding to the second through hole D2C and is blocked based on an imaginary straight line L1 ( FIG. 16 ) extending in the longitudinal direction of the second condensing duct 1124 . The positions of the at least two locking bodies 174 formed symmetrically on both sides of the plate 172 and predetermined positions on the blocking plate 172 corresponding to the second through hole D2C form a straight line (L2, FIG. 16). can be achieved

Accordingly, the distance from a predetermined position on the blocking plate 172 corresponding to the second through hole D2C to which a large force is applied to the switch 170 to the fan 130 and the at least two locking bodies 174 . Since the distances from the fan 130 are all similar to each other, when the switch 170 moves a predetermined distance in the penetrating direction of the first through-holes D2A and D2B, for example, the length of the second condensing duct 1124 Able to maintain balance without tilting in the direction. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the opening and closing of the second drain port D2 from not being performed because the switch 170 is obliquely inserted into the second drain port D2, for example, in the longitudinal direction.

The switch 170 may include a protrusion 176 that protrudes upward from the upper surface of the blocking plate 172 and is inserted into the second through hole D2C.

Accordingly, when negative pressure is applied to the second through-hole D2C by the fan 130 and external air flows into the second condensing duct 1124 through the second through-hole D2C, the protrusion 176 is Since the space (area) into which the outside air is introduced is reduced, the flow rate of the outside air is increased, so that the pressure around the protrusion 176 can be further reduced. Accordingly, the second drain port D2 can be closed more quickly and stably even if the amount of the negative pressure applied to the second through hole D2C by the fan 130 is small.

The protrusion 176 may include a height section (HS2, FIG. 21 ) in which the cross-sectional area gradually decreases as it goes upward (that is, as the height from the top surface of the blocking plate increases) with respect to the top surface of the blocking plate 172. there is. Accordingly, when the second drain hole D2 is opened, water can be quickly and effectively discharged along the inclined surface in the vertical direction of the protrusion 176 . In addition, when the second drain hole D2 is closed, the switch 170 can move in the penetrating direction of the first through holes D2A and D2B while finding the correct position along the vertical inclined surface of the protrusion 176. With the configuration, the opening and closing of the second drain port D2 can be stably performed.

On the other hand, the switch 170 is not limited to the above-described configuration. For example, the switch 170 may be a valve (not shown) installed in the second drain port D2 unlike the drawing. The valve may be connected to the control unit and may open/close the second drain port D2 under the control of the control unit.

Specifically, for example, when the fan 130 operates, the valve may close the second drain port D2 under the control of the controller. On the other hand, when the fan 130 does not operate, the valve may open the second drain port D2 under the control of the controller. Even when the fan 130 is operating, if the amount of water collected near the second drain hole D2 or the second drain hole D2 is large, the valve may open the second drain hole D2 according to the control of the controller. The above-described water level sensor may detect the second drain D2 or the amount of water collected in the vicinity of the second drain D2.

[control unit]

The dishwasher 1 may further include a controller (not shown).

The controller may receive information about the water level from a water level sensor (not shown). If the value included in the information on the water level is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the control unit i) warns the user, ii) stops the operation of the fan 130 or weakens the strength of the fan 130 to reduce the power of the second drain port D2 ) can be automatically opened to drain the water.

Accordingly, it is possible to prevent water from flowing into the motor 136 of the fan 130 in advance, so that the durability and stability of the drying apparatus 100 can be improved.

On the other hand, if the value included in the information on the height of the water is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the controller may control the above-described valve to open the second drain port D2.

Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 14 , the second downstream duct 1124B, the fan housing 134 and the return duct 114 of FIGS. 11 to 13 are the first housing C1, the second housing C2, and the third housing. (C3) and may be configured to include a fourth housing (C4).

The first housing C1 may be disposed at a lower portion and open upward.

The second housing C2 may be disposed on the first housing C1 and may be coupled to the first housing C1 .

The third housing C3 is opened downward, is disposed on the second housing C2, and may be coupled to the second housing C2.

The fourth housing C4 may be disposed on an upper portion of one end of the second housing C2 and may be coupled to the second housing C2.

The second downstream duct 1124B may be defined by the first housing C1 and the second housing C2, and the return duct 114 may be defined by the second housing C2 and the third housing C3. can be The above-described partition wall W may be the bottom of the second housing C2.

The fan housing 134 may be defined by one end of the second housing C2 and the fourth housing C4 . That is, a portion of the fan housing 134 (one end of the second housing) may be integrally formed with a portion of the return duct 114 (the remaining portion of the second housing). The fourth housing C4 may be the upper wall 134T of the fan housing 134 described above.

The above-described second drain port D2 may be formed on the bottom of the first housing C1 , and the aforementioned third drain hole D3 may be formed on the bottom of the second housing C2 .

The heater 140 may be disposed in an inner space formed by combining the second housing C2 and the third housing C3. In this case, the fixing part 142 having high heat resistance and low thermal conductivity may be fixed to the second housing C2 or the third housing C3 and the heater 140 may be coupled to the fixing part 142 to be installed. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the second housing C2 or the third housing C3 from being damaged by the heater 140 .

In this way, the second downstream duct 1124B, the fan housing 134 and the return duct 114 are the first housing C1, the second housing C2, the third housing C3, and the fourth housing C4. By being composed of a combination of , the drying apparatus 100 can be manufactured simply and easily, maintenance is easy, and the drying apparatus 100 can have a small size and a compact structure.

Meanwhile, although the drying duct 110 has been described by dividing the configuration into the condensation duct 112 and the return duct 114 for convenience, the condensation duct 112 and the return duct 114 may be integrally formed.

The first condensing duct 1122 and the second condensing duct 1124 may also be integrally formed.

The

ducts

110 , 112 , 1122 , 1124 , and 114 may be formed of a metal material such as aluminum or stainless steel.

The

ducts

110 , 112 , 1122 , 1124 , and 114 may be manufactured by sheet metal molding or injection molding.

A part of the drying apparatus 100 such as the fan 130 may be formed of plastic.

As described above, the present invention has been described with reference to the illustrated drawings, but the present invention is not limited by the embodiments and drawings disclosed in the present specification. It is obvious that variations can be made. In addition, although the effects according to the configuration of the present invention have not been explicitly described and described while describing the embodiments of the present invention, it is natural that the effects predictable by the configuration should also be recognized.

Claims

a tub comprising a floor, an upper wall, one side wall, the other side wall and a rear wall and having a washing space formed therein;

a door provided in front of the tub to open and close the washing space; and

a drying device for drying the washing space;

The tub is formed with an inlet and an outlet located below the inlet,

The drying device is

a drying duct communicating with the inlet and the outlet, disposed outside the tub, and including a condensation duct; and

A fan for flowing the air inside the drying duct,

A drain hole penetrating the duct wall is formed in the drying duct,

The fan is disposed downstream of the drain port,

A switch is installed in the drain port,

dish washer.
The method according to claim 1,

The condensing duct may include: a first condensing duct having an upstream end in communication with the inlet; and a second condensing duct whose upstream end communicates with the downstream end of the first condensing duct and whose downstream end communicates with the outlet,

The drain hole passes through a duct wall of the second condensation duct.
The method according to claim 1,

The switchgear may open and close the drain hole according to whether or not the fan is operating or not and the amount of water collected around the drain hole or the drain hole.
The method according to claim 1,

A water retention groove is formed in the drying duct,

The drain hole is formed by vertically penetrating the duct wall at the lower end of the water retention groove.
3. The method according to claim 2,

The second condensing duct is configured to include a downstream duct in which the height of the lower surface gradually increases from the upstream side to the downstream side,

and the drain port is formed near an upstream end of the downstream duct.
The method according to claim 1,

The drain port is configured to include one or more first through-holes penetrating the duct wall of the drying duct,

The opener is

a blocking plate for opening and closing the first through hole; and

It extends upward from the upper surface of the blocking plate, and includes a body and a head, and includes one or more engaging bodies corresponding to each of the first through-holes,

The lower end of the body portion is coupled to the blocking plate,

Each body portion 1742 constituting each of the locking body 174 is disposed through each of the first through-holes corresponding to each of the locking bodies 174,

The head is coupled to the upper end of the body,

The length of the body portion is longer than the length of the first through hole through which the body portion passes,

The cross-sectional area of the body portion is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the first through hole through which the body portion passes,

A maximum cross-sectional area of the head and the blocking plate is greater than a cross-sectional area of a first through hole through which the body passes.
7. The method of claim 6,

The drain port includes a plurality of the first through-holes,

The at least two first through-holes are formed symmetrically on both sides based on an imaginary straight line extending in the longitudinal direction of the drying duct through a midpoint of the positions of the at least two first through-holes.
7. The method of claim 6,

The drain port is configured to further include a second through hole penetrating the duct wall of the drying duct,

The blocking plate opens and closes the first through-hole and the second through-hole according to whether or not the fan is operating or not, and the amount of water collected in or around the first and second through-holes.
9. The method of claim 8,

and the second through-hole has a larger cross-sectional area than the first through-hole.
9. The method of claim 8,

The drain port includes a plurality of the first through-holes,

The plurality of first through-holes are formed at equal angular intervals with respect to the second through-holes.
9. The method of claim 8,

The drain port includes two or more of the first through-holes,

The at least two first through-holes are formed symmetrically on both sides based on an imaginary straight line that passes through the second through-hole and extends in the longitudinal direction of the drying duct.
12. The method of claim 11,

At least two of the first through-hole and the second through-hole formed symmetrically on both sides based on the virtual straight line L1 are formed on a straight line.
9. The method of claim 8,

The opener is

and a protrusion which protrudes upward from the upper surface of the blocking plate and is inserted into the second through hole.
14. The method of claim 13,

The protrusion includes a height section in which the cross-sectional area gradually decreases as the height from the upper surface of the blocking plate increases.
7. The method of claim 6,

The head portion includes a height section in which the cross-sectional area gradually decreases as the height from the blocking plate increases.