CN109717814B - Tableware cleaning machine - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention provides a dish washing machine. The dish washing machine includes: a cleaning device for cleaning an object to be cleaned stored in a cleaning tank (2) provided in a main body (1); and a drying device (30) for drying the object to be cleaned stored in the cleaning tank (2). The drying device (30) is provided with: a heater (34) for heating the drying air; a blower fan (31) for sending drying air into the cleaning tank (2); a drive circuit unit for driving the heater (34) and the blower fan (31); and an air supply pipe (32) which communicates with the inside of the cleaning tank (2) at the drying air outlet (2 c). The air supply pipe (32) has a damper (35) inside to prevent air bubbles from entering from the cleaning tank (2). Thus, it is possible to provide a dish washing machine which suppresses the reverse flow of bubbles from the washing tub (2) and has high drying efficiency and energy saving.

Description

Dishwashing Machine

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a dishwashing machine for washing dishes and other objects to be washed stored in a washing tank, and in particular to a drying device for drying the objects to be washed in the dishwashing machine.

Background technique

Conventionally, a dishwashing and drying machine has been proposed that utilizes heat accumulated in a washing tank during washing and rinsing steps for supplying drying air into the washing tank during a drying step, thereby improving drying efficiency and reducing power consumption (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Hereinafter, a conventional dishwashing and drying machine described in Patent Document 1 will be described using Fig. 20. Fig. 20 is a conceptual diagram of a second embodiment of the dishwashing and drying machine described in Patent Document 1.

As shown in FIG. 20 , a conventional dishwashing and drying machine is provided with an air intake path 103 fixedly installed on the back outer wall and the bottom outer wall of the washing tank 102, and the air intake path 103 is provided for the drying air supplied into the washing tank 102 to pass through. The air intake path 103 introduces air from the outside of the main body 101 during the drying step. An air inlet 104 of the air intake path 103 is provided near the upper end of the washing tank 102. The air intake path 103 is provided along the vertical direction from the air inlet 104 to the vicinity of the lower end of the washing tank 102, and reaches the blower fan 105. The air intake path 103 is further extended from the blower fan 105 along the bottom outer wall of the washing tank 102 via an air supply duct 106 formed in an inverted U shape. The extended air intake path 103 is connected to an air supply port 107 provided at the bottom of the washing tank 102.

The air inlet 104 of the air inlet path 103 of the conventional dishwashing and drying machine is provided near the upper end of the washing tank 102. Thus, the air introduced from the outside of the main body 101 contacts the outer wall of the surrounding side of the washing tank 102 and is heated before reaching the air inlet 104 of the air inlet path 103. In addition, the air inlet path 103 is formed to be long in the range from the air inlet 104 provided near the upper end of the washing tank 102 to the air supply port 107 provided at the bottom of the washing tank 102, and is fixedly mounted on the outer wall of the back surface and the outer wall of the bottom surface of the washing tank 102. Thus, while the drying air passes through the air inlet path 103, it absorbs the heat accumulated in the washing tank 102 in the washing step and the rinsing step and is heated.

In addition, in the washing step, the dishwashing and drying machine circulates and sprays washing water containing detergent in the washing tank 102, and causes the washing water to fall to the bottom of the washing tank 102. Therefore, bubbles are generated due to the detergent, and the generated bubbles may flow back from the air supply port 107 provided at the bottom of the washing tank 102 to the air intake path 103. Therefore, an air supply duct 106 formed in an inverted U shape is provided in the air intake path 103. This prevents the backflowing bubbles from reaching the air blower fan 105 and damaging the air blower fan 105.

However, in the case of the structure of the above-mentioned conventional dishwasher, the user sometimes uses the wrong type of detergent or mistakenly puts in a large amount of detergent. In this case, a large amount of bubbles will be generated, so the bubbles may pass over the folded portion of the inverted U-shaped air supply duct 106 and enter the blower fan 105, damaging the blower fan. In addition, since the backflow of bubbles may occur, it is difficult to set electrical parts such as a heater for heating air for drying in the air intake path 103. In addition, it is necessary to set the folded portion of the air supply duct 106 at a height above the assumed highest reaching point of the bubbles, so there is a limit to reducing the height dimension of the dishwasher. In addition, since the air intake path 103 has the inverted U-shaped air supply duct 106, the flow path resistance of the air intake path 103 increases. Therefore, a powerful blower fan 105 is required, so there is a limit to reducing power consumption.

Prior art literature

Patent Literature

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-245753

Summary of the invention

The present invention provides a dishwasher with high drying efficiency and energy saving, which can suppress the backflow of bubbles from a washing tank and smoothly supply air heated by the heat accumulated in the washing tank into the washing tank.

The dishwasher of the present invention includes: a main body; a washing tank, which is provided in the main body and is used to store objects to be washed; a washing device, which is used to wash the objects to be washed; and a drying device, which dries the objects to be washed. The drying device has: an air heating heater, which is used to heat drying air; a blower fan, which sends drying air into the washing tank; a driving circuit unit, which is used to drive the air heating heater and the blower fan; and an air supply pipe, which is connected to the washing tank at the drying air outlet. In addition, the air supply pipe has a damper inside to suppress the entry of bubbles from the washing tank. As a result, the backflow of bubbles from the washing tank can be suppressed in the washing step and the rinsing step. In addition, the drying device can be used to smoothly supply the washing tank with air heated by the heat accumulated in the washing tank in the drying step. As a result, a dishwasher with high drying efficiency and energy saving can be provided.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing an upper door and a lower door opened.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the back appearance of the above-mentioned dishwasher.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the above-mentioned dishwasher.

FIG. 4 is a front cross-sectional view showing a main part of the dishwasher.

5 is a cross-sectional view of a side wall portion showing a state in which the upper door and the lower door of the dishwasher are closed.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the dishwasher with the upper door and the lower door opened.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the structure of an upper cutlery basket of the dishwasher.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the structure of a lower cutlery basket of the dishwasher.

9 is a plan cross-sectional view showing a water reservoir and a drain port of the washing tank of the dishwasher.

10 is a plan cross-sectional view showing the structure of the water reservoir and the drain port of the washing tank of the dishwasher, with the water reservoir cover removed.

11 is a perspective view taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 9 showing the structure of the water reservoir and the drain port of the washing tank of the dishwasher.

12 is a perspective view taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 9 showing the structure of the water reservoir and the drain port of the washing tank of the dishwasher.

13 is a perspective view taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 10 , showing the structure of a water reservoir and a drain port of the washing tank of the dishwasher.

FIG. 14 is a front view showing the structure of the drying device of the dishwasher and the flow of drying air.

FIG. 15 is a front perspective view showing a drying air outlet and an exhaust port of the dishwasher.

FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the drying device of the dishwasher.

17 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the periphery of a drying air suction port of the drying device of the dishwasher.

18 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the periphery of the damper of the drying device of the dishwasher.

19A is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the drying device of the dishwasher in a state where the damper is closed.

19B is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the dishwasher in a state where the damper of the drying device is opened.

FIG. 20 is a conceptual diagram of a conventional dishwasher.

Description of Reference Numerals

1. 101. Main body; 2. 102. Washing tank; 2a, 2b. Inner side; 2c. Dry air outlet; 2e. Bulging portion; 2f. Right side outer wall; 3. Opening; 4. Upper door (door); 4a, 5a. Inner surface; 5. Lower door (door); 6. Object to be washed; 7. Upper cutlery basket; 8. Lower cutlery basket; 9. Sealing member; 10. Door opening and closing mechanism; 11. Door opening button; 12. Door locking device; 13. Operation display; 14. First rotating washing nozzle (washing device); 15. Second rotating washing nozzle (washing device); 16. Fixed washing nozzle (washing device) 16a, vertical portion; 16aa, 16ba, 16ca, injection hole; 16b, first horizontal portion; 16c, second horizontal portion; 17, third rotary cleaning nozzle (cleaning device); 18, water accumulation portion; 18a, opening portion; 18d, 20a, recessed portion; 19, drain port; 20, water accumulation portion cover; 20b, opening; 20c, overflow port; 20d, hole; 21, cleaning water circulation path; 22, cleaning pump; 23, residue filter; 25, heater (heater for heating cleaning water); 26, drainage path; 27, drainage pump; 29, temperature sensor; 30, drying device ; 31, 105, blower fan; 32, air supply pipe; 33, exhaust port; 34, heater (heater for air heating); 35, damper; 35a, rotation support shaft; 35b, bubble entry suppression rib; 36, air intake filter; 37, air supply pipe member; 37a, upper inclined surface; 37b, lower inclined surface; 38, damper closing rib (limiting member); 39, air intake space; 41, external drain outlet; 42, circulation drain outlet; 43, external drain chamber; 44, external drain outlet contour; 44a, outer peripheral surface; 44b, 47a, upper surface; 44c, shaft; 44d, washing water diffusion part; 44e, circumferential connecting portion; 45, washing water drainage suction port; 46, circulation drainage chamber; 47, circulation drainage port outline; 48, washing water circulation suction port; 51, first filter; 71, upper cutlery basket guide rail; 73, 83, side member; 77, upper cutlery basket body; 78, first placement basket; 79, second placement basket; 81, lower cutlery basket guide rail; 87, lower cutlery basket body; 88, third placement basket; 89, small item box; 90, detergent dispensing portion; 96, water supply hose; 97, drainage hose; 103, air intake path; 104, air intake; 106, air supply duct; 107, air supply outlet.

Detailed ways

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment.

(Implementation Method)

First, a schematic structure of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described using FIGS. 1 to 6 .

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention, with the upper and lower doors opened. FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the dishwasher. FIG. 3 is a front view of the dishwasher. FIG. 4 is a view showing a front cross section of a main part of the dishwasher. FIG. 5 is a view showing a cross section of a side wall of the dishwasher, with the upper and lower doors closed. FIG. 6 is a side view of the dishwasher, with the upper and lower doors opened.

As shown in Figs. 1 to 6, the dishwasher of this embodiment includes a main body 1 and a washing tank 2, which is provided inside the main body 1 and is formed of a resin such as polypropylene. The washing tank 2 has an opening 3 on the front surface for taking out and putting in objects 6 to be washed such as dishes. The opening 3 is configured to be openable and closable by an upper door 4 and a lower door 5. In addition, the upper door 4 and the lower door 5 constitute the door body of the dishwasher of this embodiment.

A sealing member 9 formed of an elastic body such as silicone rubber is arranged on the front surface around the opening 3. The sealing member 9 forms a sealing portion of the opening 3 using an upper door body sealing receiving portion (not shown) provided on the upper door body 4 and a lower door body sealing receiving portion (not shown) provided on the lower door body 5. An inter-door body sealing member (not shown) is arranged at the lower end of the upper door body 4. When the upper door body 4 and the lower door body 5 close the opening 3, the inter-door body sealing member ensures the sealing between the lower end of the upper door body 4 and the upper end of the lower door body 5.

The upper door body 4 and the lower door body 5 are connected to a pair of door body opening and closing mechanisms 10 provided on the left and right outer side walls of the washing tank 2 as shown in FIG5 . The door body opening and closing mechanism 10 causes the upper door body 4 and the lower door body 5 to rotate in conjunction with each other to open and close. At this time, as shown in FIG6 , the upper door body 4 and the lower door body 5 are opened to a position where the inner surface 4a of the upper door body 4 and the inner surface 5a of the lower door body 5 are in a state of being generally horizontal (including horizontal) facing upward below the front side of the opening 3. The upper door body 4 and the lower door body 5 are arranged in a manner that the upper door body 4 overlaps the lower door body 5 in the open state.

The front surface of the lower door 5 is provided with a door opening button 11 as shown in FIG3 . As shown in FIG5 , a door locking device 12 is provided on the outer side wall of the washing tank 2 . When the upper door 4 and the lower door 5 close the opening 3 , the door locking device 12 locks the upper door 4 and the lower door 5 to the washing tank 2 . On the other hand, when the user pushes the door opening button 11 , the locking of the upper door 4 and the lower door 5 by the door locking device 12 is released. At this time, the upper end 5b of the lower door 5 slightly rotates forward with the lower end 5c as the center. Thus, the user can easily open the upper door 4 and the lower door 5 by placing his fingers on the upper end 5b of the rotated lower door 5 .

The method of opening the upper door body 4 and the lower door body 5 is not limited to the above method, and a method in which the upper door body 4 and the lower door body 5 are automatically opened to the open state by a force in the opening direction may be used.

In addition, as shown in FIG3 , an operation display unit 13 is disposed on the front surface of the lower door body 5. The operation display unit 13 is electrically connected to a control unit (not shown) that controls the operation of the dishwasher. The operation display unit 13 and the control unit exchange information related to the washing operation of the object to be washed 6. Thus, the control unit controls the washing step, the rinsing step, and the drying step of the dishwasher to perform the washing operation of the object to be washed 6.

Specifically, first, the user operates the operation display unit 13 to input the selection of the operation program and the conditions such as the time and number of washing, rinsing and drying. The input conditions are displayed on the operation display unit 13. Thus, the user can confirm the operation program selected by himself, the operation status, etc. according to the displayed information.

In addition, the washing tank 2 accommodates an upper cutlery basket 7 and a lower cutlery basket 8 for placing the cutlery and other objects to be washed 6. As shown in FIG. 4 , the upper cutlery basket 7 and the lower cutlery basket 8 are independently supported by upper cutlery basket guide rails 71 and lower cutlery basket guide rails 81 provided on the left and right inner sides 2a and 2b of the washing tank 2 so as to be movable in the front-back direction. Thus, when the upper door body 4 and the lower door body 5 are opened, the upper cutlery basket 7 and the lower cutlery basket 8 can be pulled out forward through the opening 3 of the washing tank 2. The upper cutlery basket 7 and the lower cutlery basket 8 are configured to be removable from the upper cutlery basket guide rails 71 and the lower cutlery basket guide rails 81, respectively.

The dishwasher of the present embodiment is schematically configured as described above.

Next, the structures of the upper cutlery basket 7 and the lower cutlery basket 8 will be described in detail using FIGS. 7 and 8 .

Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing the structure of an upper cutlery basket of the dishwasher. Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing the structure of a lower cutlery basket of the dishwasher.

First, as shown in FIG. 7 , the upper cutlery basket 7 includes an upper cutlery basket body 77, a first placement basket 78, a second placement basket 79, and a side member 73. The first placement basket 78 is placed on the left side of the upper cutlery basket body 77. The second placement basket 79 is placed on the right side of the upper cutlery basket body 77. The side member 73 is fixed to the left and right ends of the upper cutlery basket body 77. In addition, the first placement basket 78 is configured to be attachable to and detachable from the upper cutlery basket body 77. However, usually, the first placement basket 78 is used in a state of being fixedly mounted to the upper cutlery basket body 77.

Next, as shown in FIG8 , the lower cutlery basket 8 includes a lower cutlery basket body 87, a third placement basket 88, a small item box 89, and a side member 83. The third placement basket 88 is placed, for example, on the left side of the lower cutlery basket body 87. The small item box 89 is placed, for example, slightly to the right of the center of the lower cutlery basket body 87. The side member 83 is fixed to the left and right ends of the lower cutlery basket body 87. In addition, the third placement basket 88 is configured to be attachable and detachable relative to the lower cutlery basket body 87. However, usually, the third placement basket 88 is used in a state of being fixedly mounted to the lower cutlery basket body 87.

Upper cutlery basket 7 and lower cutlery basket 8 of the dishwasher according to the present embodiment are configured as described above.

In addition, the washing tank 2 is internally provided with a water supply unit (not shown) for supplying washing water. As shown in FIG. 2 , the water supply unit includes a water supply valve (not shown), an internal water supply pipe (not shown), and a water supply hose 96, etc. The water supply valve is provided on the main body 1, the internal water supply pipe connects the water supply valve and the washing tank 2, and the water supply hose 96 connects the water supply valve and the tap water pipe. The control unit controls the opening and closing of the water supply valve based on information from a water level sensor (not shown) connected to the interior of the washing tank 2. Thus, the water supply unit supplies a predetermined amount of washing water to the interior of the washing tank 2 in the washing step and the rinsing step.

4, first rotary cleaning nozzle 14 and second rotary cleaning nozzle 15 are disposed at the lower portion of cleaning tank 2. First rotary cleaning nozzle 14 and second rotary cleaning nozzle 15 include one or more spray holes that open to spray cleaning water upward.

A substantially cross-shaped (including a cross-shaped) fixed cleaning nozzle 16 is disposed on the back side of the cleaning tank 2 along the inner wall of the cleaning tank 2. The fixed cleaning nozzle 16 is formed in a flat cylindrical shape. Thus, a wide space can be ensured inside the cleaning tank 2.

The third rotary cleaning nozzle 17 is disposed below the left side of the upper cutlery basket 7. The third rotary cleaning nozzle 17 has one or more spray holes on the upper surface for spraying cleaning water. Thus, cleaning water is sprayed from the spray holes toward the objects 6 stored on the left side of the upper cutlery basket 7 from directly below.

In addition, for example, the first rotating cleaning nozzle 14, the second rotating cleaning nozzle 15, the fixed cleaning nozzle 16, and the third rotating cleaning nozzle 17 connected to the fixed cleaning nozzle 16 are sequentially sprayed toward the object 6 to be cleaned housed in the cleaning tank 2. By making the plurality of cleaning nozzles spray independently, the amount of washing water delivered can be reduced compared to the case where the plurality of cleaning nozzles spray simultaneously. Therefore, the object 6 to be cleaned can be efficiently cleaned using a small pump.

In addition, as shown in FIG5 , a drying device 30 is provided on the outer side of the washing tank 2 inside the main body 1. The drying device 30 supplies drying air into the washing tank 2 after rinsing to dry the object 6 to be washed. The drying device 30 includes a heater 34 (see FIG14 ), a blast fan 31, a temperature sensor 29 (see FIG13 ), and an air supply pipe 32, and the heater 34 constitutes an air heating heater. The drying device 30 will be described in detail later.

One end of the air supply pipe 32 of the drying device 30 is connected to the drying air outlet 2c provided at the lower right inner side of the washing tank 2. The other end of the air supply pipe 32 is open near the outer side of the upper right inner side end of the washing tank 2. The blower fan 31 is arranged near the other end of the air supply pipe 32. With this structure, the drying air sucked from the outside of the machine by the blower fan 31 is heated by the heater 34. The heated drying air is sent into the inside of the washing tank 2 from the drying air outlet 2c to dry the object 6 to be washed. As a result, the drying air becomes moist air containing moisture removed from the surface of the object 6 to be washed. The moist air is discharged to the outside of the machine from the exhaust port 33 provided on the upper surface of the main body 1. At this time, the temperature sensor 29 is provided on the outer wall of the position of the drying air outlet 2c near the bottom of the washing tank 2. As a result, the temperature sensor 29 can more accurately detect the temperature of the drying air supplied to the washing tank 2. As a result, the object 6 to be washed can be effectively dried.

The dishwasher of this embodiment is configured as described above.

Next, the structure of water storage part 18 of washing tank 2 of the dishwasher will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 13 .

Fig. 9 is a top cross-sectional view of the water reservoir and the drain port of the washing tank of the dishwasher according to the above embodiment. Fig. 10 is a top cross-sectional view of the state in which the water reservoir cover is removed from the state in Fig. 9. Fig. 11 is a sectional stereoscopic view taken along line 11-11 of Fig. 9. Fig. 12 is a sectional stereoscopic view taken along line 12-12 of Fig. 9. Fig. 13 is a sectional stereoscopic view taken along line 13-13 of Fig. 10.

First, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 , a water reservoir 18 is recessed at the bottom of the washing tank 2. The water reservoir 18 accumulates the supplied washing water in the washing step and the rinsing step. The water reservoir 18 is recessed substantially vertically (including vertically) at a predetermined depth from an opening 18a formed in a horizontally long substantially rectangular (including rectangular) shape opened at the bottom of the washing tank 2. In addition, the water reservoir 18 is provided at the front part substantially in the center (including the center) of the left and right sides of the washing tank 2.

The water collecting part 18 has a concave part 18d provided at a lower position substantially in the center (including the center). The concave part 18d is provided with a drain port 19. The bottom surface of the water collecting part 18 is formed to slope gently downward toward the drain port 19.

The water collection portion cover 20 is detachably embedded in the opening portion 18a of the upper portion of the water collection portion 18. The water collection portion cover 20 is embedded in a manner that is continuous with the surface of the bottom of the washing tank 2, for example, flush. The outer peripheral shape of the water collection portion cover 20 is formed into a horizontally long substantially rectangular (including a rectangular) corresponding to the opening portion 18a of the water collection portion 18. The water collection portion cover 20 has a recessed portion 20a formed by a recessed central portion. An opening 20b, for example, in a circular shape, is formed in the center of the recessed portion 20a. That is, the recessed portion 20a is configured to be located directly above the drain outlet 19 when the water collection portion cover 20 is installed in the opening portion 18a of the water collection portion 18. In addition, the lower surface of the recessed portion 20a is configured so that when the residue filter 23 described later is installed in the drain outlet 19, the opening 20b is continuous with the upper surface of the outer edge portion of the first filter 51 of the residue filter 23, for example, flush.

The water collection cover 20 has a plurality of extremely small (e.g., diameter of about 0.8 mm) holes 20d (see FIG. 9 ) formed on most of the flat surface other than the inclined surface of the recess 20a. As a result, most of the washing water falls from the holes 20d to the water collection section 18. On the other hand, the washing water that does not fall from the holes 20d flows into the residue filter 23 disposed on the lower surface of the recess 20a of the water collection cover 20 together with the residue.

The water collection cover 20 has an overflow port 20c (see FIG. 11 ) at the upper side of the recess 20a. The overflow port 20c is arranged at a position slightly higher than the washing water level (the dotted line shown in A in FIG. 12 ) of the supplied washing water. Thus, during the washing operation, when the washing water level in the water collection cover 20 rises due to clogging of the residue filter 23 and the water collection cover 20, the washing water overflows from the overflow port 20c and is discharged.

A residue filter 23 for collecting residues is disposed at the drain port 19. The residue filter 23 is disposed below the lower surface of the recessed portion 20a of the water storage portion cover 20.

As shown in Figs. 12 and 13, the drain port 19 is connected to the suction side of the washing pump 22 through the washing water circulation path 21. That is, the washing water is accumulated in the water reservoir 18 and the drain port 19 through the hole 20d of the water reservoir cover 20 and the residue filter 23 during the washing step and the rinsing step. The washing water accumulated in the water reservoir 18 and the drain port 19 is sucked in by the washing pump 22 and pressurized. The pressurized washing water is selected to be delivered to a water destination by the water distribution unit (not shown) and delivered.

That is, the washing water diverted and transported by the water diversion part is supplied to the first rotating washing nozzle 14, the second rotating washing nozzle 15, the fixed washing nozzle 16, and the third rotating washing nozzle 17 connected to the fixed washing nozzle 16. And the washing water is sprayed from the spray holes of each nozzle supplied with the washing water. After washing or rinsing the object 6 to be washed, the sprayed washing water returns to the water storage part 18 and the drain port 19 again. As described above, in the washing step or the rinsing step, the washing water circulates to wash or rinse the object 6 to be washed.

A heater 25 (refer to FIG. 13 ) for heating the washing water is provided in the washing pump 22. Therefore, the heater 25 is energized to appropriately heat the circulating washing water as needed. In addition, a temperature sensor 29 for detecting the temperature of the washing water is provided on the outer wall of the bottom of the washing tank 2. A bulging portion 2e bulging toward the inner side of the washing tank 2 is formed on the outer wall portion of the bottom of the washing tank 2 where the temperature sensor 29 is provided. In addition, the temperature sensor 29 is arranged inside the bulging portion 2e. At this time, the bulging portion 2e is located at a position higher than the water level of the washing water accumulated in the washing tank 2 during washing, so the washing water sprayed from the washing nozzle is sprayed to the bulging portion 2e. That is, the temperature of the washing water sprayed from the washing nozzle to be sprayed to the object 6 to be washed is detected by the temperature sensor 29. Therefore, compared with the case where the temperature sensor 29 is arranged at a position submerged in the water of the washing tank 2, the temperature of the washing water sprayed from the washing nozzle can be detected. As a result, the detection sensitivity of the temperature sensor 29 for detecting the temperature of the washing water sprayed from the washing nozzle is improved. The control unit controls the energization of the heater 25 based on the detection information of the temperature sensor 29. Here, the temperature sensor 29 is composed of, for example, a thermistor or the like.

In addition, the temperature sensor 29 also serves as an air temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the air in the cleaning tank 2 in the drying step.

In addition, the drain port 19 is connected to the suction side of the drain pump 27 through the drain path 26. The drain path 26 is connected to the connection port of the drain hose 97 (see FIG. 2) outside the machine, whereby the washing water is sucked and discharged by the drain pump 27 after the washing step and the rinsing step are completed. Specifically, the drain pump 27 discharges the washing water from the drain path 26 through the drain hose 97 (see FIG. 2) to the outside of the dishwasher.

Water reservoir 18 of washing tank 2 of the dishwasher is constructed as described above.

Next, the structure of the drain port 19 will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 13 .

11 to 13 , the drain port 19 includes an external drain port 41 located in the center of the water reservoir 18 and a hollow annular circulation drain port 42. The circulation drain port 42 is provided around the external drain port 41 and spaced apart from the external drain port 41.

The external drain port 41 has an annular external drain chamber 43 surrounded by an upper surface, a lower surface, an outer peripheral surface, and an inner peripheral surface. The lower surface of the external drain chamber 43 is formed by further concavely forming a part of the bottom surface of the concave portion 18d provided at a lower position substantially in the center of the water accumulation portion 18 and forming the bottom surface into a circular shape. The upper surface, the outer peripheral surface, and the inner peripheral surface of the external drain chamber 43 are formed by an external drain port outline 44.

The outer drain outlet profile 44 includes an outer peripheral surface 44a, an upper surface 44b, a shaft portion 44c, a washing water diffusion portion 44d, and a circumferential connection portion 44e, wherein the outer peripheral surface 44a is formed in a circumferential shape. The upper surface 44b is formed continuously with the outer peripheral surface 44a. The shaft portion 44c is vertically set higher than the upper surface 44b from the center of the circle forming the outer peripheral surface 44a at a height substantially the same as (including the same height) as the lower end of the outer peripheral surface 44a. The washing water diffusion portion 44d is horizontally arranged to extend in a disc shape at the upper end of the shaft portion 44c. The circumferential connection portion 44e connects the washing water diffusion portion 44d and the upper surface 44b continuously at four points.

The washing water drainage suction port 45 is provided between the plurality of circumferential connecting portions 44e at the lower portion of the washing water diffusion portion 44d of the outer drainage port profile 44. The washing water drainage suction port 45 is provided in a plurality of arc shapes. At this time, the washing water drainage suction port 45 is provided to ensure a sufficient area to quickly guide the discharged washing water to the outer drainage chamber 43.

The upper surface of the washing water diffusion portion 44d is formed in a convex shape, for example, in which the center portion of the circle is higher than the outer peripheral portion, so that the discharged washing water can be diffused in the entire circumferential direction.

The external drain chamber 43 communicates with the suction side of the drain pump 27 through the drain path 26 .

The circulation drain port 42 has a circular circulation drain chamber 46 surrounded by an upper surface, a lower surface, an outer peripheral surface, and an inner peripheral surface. The lower surface of the circulation drain chamber 46 is formed by a part of the bottom surface of a recessed portion that is set lower at the approximate center (including the center) of the water accumulation portion 18. The upper surface 47a, the outer peripheral surface, and the inner peripheral surface of the circulation drain chamber 46 are formed by a circulation drain port profile 47. A washing water circulation suction port 48a formed by a plurality of holes is provided on the upper surface 47a and the inner peripheral surface of the circulation drain port profile 47. Here, the washing water circulation suction port 48 is open to a lower recessed portion at the approximate center (including the center) of the water accumulation portion 18. The circulation drain chamber 46 is connected to the suction side of the washing pump 22 through the washing water circulation path 21.

The outer drain port frame 44 and the circulation drain port frame 47 are integrally formed of a resin such as polypropylene. The outer drain port frame 44 and the circulation drain port frame 47 are formed by members other than the water storage part 18 of the cleaning tank 2.

Next, the structure of the drying device 30 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 14 to 17 .

Fig. 14 is a front view showing the structure of the drying device of the dishwasher according to the above embodiment and the flow of drying air. Fig. 15 is a front perspective view showing the drying air outlet and exhaust port of the dishwasher. Fig. 16 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the drying device. Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the main parts around the drying air intake port of the drying device.

As shown in FIGS. 14 to 17 , the drying device 30 includes a blower fan 31 , an air supply pipe 32 , a heater 34 (air heating heater), a damper 35 , an air intake filter 36 , a temperature sensor 29 (air temperature sensor) and a drive circuit unit (not shown).

The air supply pipe 32 is formed by an air supply pipe member 37 fixedly mounted on the outer surface side of the right side outer wall 2f of the cleaning tank 2. The cross section of the air supply pipe member 37 is formed in a substantially Japanese U-shaped (including Japanese U-shaped), that is, a vertically long straight line of a rectangular shape with one side open. In addition, the right side outer wall 2f of the cleaning tank 2 is used to form the open side of the air supply pipe 32. Thus, the air supply pipe 32 is configured to be in close contact with the side of the cleaning tank 2. The air supply pipe 32 is formed to have a length close to the height dimension of the cleaning tank 2, and is arranged substantially vertically (including vertically) on the right side outer wall 2f of the cleaning tank 2.

The upper end of the air supply pipe 32 constitutes an air intake section for drying air. The air intake section is open to the main body 1 at the upper rear portion of the cleaning tank 2, and is provided with a blower fan 31 and an air intake filter 36. The lower end of the air supply pipe 32 is connected to the drying air outlet 2c provided at the bottom of the cleaning tank 2.

In addition, a damper 35 is disposed in the air supply pipe 32 near the lower end thereof. A heater 34 (heater for heating air) is disposed near the upper part of the damper 35. The heater 34 has built-in electrical components such as a thermostat and a temperature fuse in addition to a heater body.

The blower fan 31 introduces external air (external air) from an external air intake port (not shown) provided at the bottom of the main body 1. The introduced air contacts the outer wall of the surrounding side of the cleaning tank 2 and is heated. The heated air is sucked into the air supply pipe 32 by the blower fan 31 and supplied to the cleaning tank 2 from the drying air outlet 2c. In addition, the blower fan 31 is exemplified as a DC fan driven by a built-in DC motor.

The blower fan 31 is arranged with the air intake side facing the cleaning tank 2. As shown in Fig. 17, the upper corner of the cleaning tank 2 opposite to the air intake side of the blower fan 31 is cut to form an inclined shape. Thus, an air intake space 39 is formed for introducing air by the blower fan 31.

The air intake filter 36 collects and removes dust contained in the air sucked into the air supply pipe 32. The air intake filter 36 is arranged above the air blowing fan 31 and the air intake space 39.

The drying device 30 is configured as described above.

Next, a procedure for mounting the above-mentioned components constituting the drying device 30 to the right side outer wall 2f of the cleaning tank 2 will be described.

First, the air intake filter 36 uses the claws to hold the blast fan 31. In this state, the claws of the air intake filter 36 are engaged with the locking portion of the top surface of the cleaning tank 2. Thus, the air intake filter 36 holding the blast fan 31 is installed on the upper surface of the cleaning tank 2 from above.

Next, the damper 35 is rotatably fixed to the inner side of the air supply pipe member 37 , and the heater 34 is temporarily fixed in a manner hooked to the outer wall of the air supply pipe member 37 .

Then, while keeping the outside and front and rear sides of the blower fan 31, the air supply pipe member 37 containing the damper 35 and the heater 34 is inserted and fixedly mounted on the right side outer wall 2f of the washing tank 2. Thus, the mounting of the above-mentioned components constituting the drying device 30 to the right side outer wall 2f of the washing tank 2 is completed.

Then, the electric system of air blowing fan 31 and heater 34 is electrically connected to a drive circuit unit of a control unit (not shown) that controls the operation of the dishwasher via, for example, a connector.

With the above structure, air is sucked in from an external air intake port (not shown) provided at the bottom of the main body 1. The introduced air contacts the outer wall of the surrounding side of the washing tank 2 and is heated before reaching the air intake portion at the upper end of the air supply pipe 32. In addition, the air supply pipe 32 formed longitudinally in the range from the air intake portion provided near the upper end of the washing tank 2 to the drying air outlet 2c provided at the bottom of the washing tank 2 is fixedly mounted on the right side outer wall 2f of the washing tank 2. Thus, while the drying air passes through the air supply pipe 32, it absorbs the heat accumulated in the washing tank 2 in the washing step and the rinsing step through the right side outer wall 2f and is heated. In other words, the drying air blown into the washing tank 2 is preheated. As a result, energy saving in the drying step can be achieved.

In addition, as an air temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the drying air, a temperature sensor 29 for detecting the temperature of the washing water is also used. In this case, as described above, the temperature sensor 29 is arranged inside the bulged portion 2e formed at a position close to the drying air outlet 2c. In addition, the bulged portion 2e is provided by bulging the outer wall portion of the bottom of the washing tank 2 inward.

Thus, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 14 , first, the temperature of the drying air blown out from the drying air outlet 2c into the washing tank 2 is detected by the temperature sensor 29 disposed at the bulged portion 2e at the bottom of the washing tank 2. The drying air of which the temperature is detected dries the object to be cleaned 6 accommodated in the washing tank 2. Subsequently, the drying air is discharged from the washing tank exhaust port (not shown) located just above the drying air outlet 2c provided on the top surface of the washing tank 2 into the main body 1. Then, the discharged drying air is discharged from the exhaust port 33 provided on the upper surface of the main body 1 to the outside of the machine.

In addition, as shown in Figure 18, the air supply pipe 32 (air supply pipe member 37) has an upper inclined surface 37a and a lower inclined surface 37b formed near the lowermost portion. The upper inclined surface 37a and the lower inclined surface 37b constitute two sides of a roughly triangular shape (including a triangle) that bulges inward when viewed from the front at a portion of the wall surface side of the main body 1 on the side opposite to the right side outer wall 2f of the cleaning tank 2 of the air supply pipe member 37.

The heater 34 is fixed to the air supply pipe member 37 at a position above (upstream side) the upper inclined surface 37a and is arranged in the air supply pipe 32. Therefore, even if the heater 34 is removed from the air supply pipe member 37, the heater 34 can be held by the inner wall of the upper inclined surface 37a, so that the heater 34 does not fall to a position below the upper inclined surface 37a. That is, the heater 34, which is an air drying heater that heats the drying air exclusively, is arranged in the air supply pipe 32. As a result, it is not necessary to arrange the heater 25 as a heater for heating the washing water shown in FIG. 13 in the water accumulation portion 18 at the bottom of the washing tank 2 as in the past.

In addition, as described above, the heater 25 as a heater for heating the washing water is built into the washing pump 22. Thus, only the washing water sucked into the washing water circulation path 21 by the washing pump 22 is heated by the heater 25 and supplied to each washing nozzle. Therefore, the washing water sprayed from each washing nozzle can be sprayed to the washing object 6 while maintaining a small change in temperature. In addition, the heater 25 can be formed by a low-power heater.

Next, the structure, operation, and function of the damper 35 of the drying device 30 will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 to 19B .

Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the main part and the periphery of the damper of the drying device of the dishwasher. Fig. 19A and Fig. 19B are cross-sectional views of the main part showing the respective states of opening and closing of the damper of the drying device.

As shown in Fig. 18, the damper 35 is arranged in the air supply pipe 32 in a state of being rotatably suspended about a rotation support shaft 35a in the front-rear direction corresponding to the upper end of the lower inclined surface 37b. Thus, as shown in Fig. 19A, the damper 35 hangs vertically by its own weight in a normal state without the movement of air or the like.

In addition, the damper closing rib 38 (limiting member) is provided at the bottom of the right side outer wall 2f of the washing tank 2 and in the vicinity of the drying air outlet 2c so as to protrude toward the inner side of the air supply pipe 32. The damper closing rib 38 limits the closed position of the damper 35 by contacting with the damper 35. That is, the damper 35 droops (hangs) in the vertical direction by its own weight under normal conditions when air is not supplied to the air supply pipe 32 by the driving of the blower fan 31. At this time, the damper 35 contacts the damper closing rib 38 at a position slightly rotated outward from the vertical. Thus, the closed position of the damper 35 is limited.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 19A , in the washing step and the rinsing step, air is not supplied from the top to the bottom in the air supply pipe 32 by the driving of the air blower fan 31. Therefore, the damper 35 droops by its own weight and maintains the closure of the air supply pipe 32 by contacting with the damper closing rib 38. At this time, even if bubbles of the washing water generated in the washing tank 2 enter from the drying air outlet 2c and flow upward in the air supply pipe 32, the bubbles can be prevented from entering the air supply pipe 32 by the closure performed by the damper 35. Thus, bubbles are prevented from entering the air supply pipe 32 above the damper 35. That is, bubbles are prevented from entering the heater 34 disposed near the top of the damper 35. Therefore, damage and malfunction of the heater body, thermostat, and temperature fuse constituting the heater 34 can be prevented before they occur.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 19B , in the drying step, the air blower fan 31 is driven to blow air from the top to the bottom in the air supply pipe 32. Therefore, the air supply causes the damper 35 to rotate outward against its own weight, thereby pushing the air supply pipe 32 open. Subsequently, when the damper 35 is released from the contact with the damper closing rib 38 and rotates to the maximum extent, the damper 35 abuts against the lower inclined surface 37b. Thus, the damper 35 is opened. As a result, the drying air heated by the heater 34 is smoothly blown from the top to the bottom and blown out from the drying air outlet 2c into the washing tank 2. In addition, as described above, the damper 35 abuts against the damper closing rib 38 at a position slightly rotated outward than the vertical when closed. Therefore, the opening direction of the damper 35 when opened can be limited to the rotation in the direction of the downward inclined surface 37b.

As described above, the dishwasher of this embodiment is provided with a damper 35 for suppressing the backflow of bubbles from the drying air outlet 2c at the lowest part of the air supply pipe 32. As a result, it is not necessary to provide the inverted U-shaped portion provided in the air supply pipe 32 as in the past. Therefore, the drying air heated by the heater 34 can be smoothly supplied to the washing tank 2 with a small flow resistance through the air supply pipe 32 which is formed in a straight line with a length close to the height dimension of the washing tank 2. As a result, a small fan with low power consumption can be used for the air blower fan 31, so that the dishwasher can be energy-saving.

Even if the bubbles flow back into the air supply pipe 32 in the washing step and the rinsing step, the bubbles can be hydrated by the air supply from the top to the bottom in the drying step and move downward or disappear.

In addition, the heater 34 can be arranged near the upper part of the damper 35, that is, at the lowest part in the air supply pipe 32. Thus, the heat loss caused by the drying air heated by the heater 34 passing through the air supply pipe 32 can be reduced. Therefore, the drying air with a fully controlled temperature can be supplied from the drying air outlet 2c to the cleaning tank 2. In addition, the length of the electrical wiring for connecting the heater 34 and the control unit can be shortened. In addition, the space above the heater 34 in the air supply pipe 32 can be expanded, so other electrical parts can also be arranged.

In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, although it is not particularly mentioned, a sealing member such as a rubber gasket may be provided at the contact portion between the damper 35 and the damper closing rib 38. In addition, as shown in, for example, FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B , the damper 35 may also be provided with a bubble entry suppression rib 35b protruding toward the inside at a portion near the upper portion of the contact portion with the damper closing rib 38. In addition, a structure for applying force to the damper 35 in the closing direction may be provided, for example, by oblique installation or a spring. With the above-mentioned structure, it is possible to more effectively suppress the entry of bubbles into the upper part of the air supply pipe 32.

Next, the operation and effect of the dishwasher configured as described above will be described below.

First, the user pushes the door opening button 11 of the lower door 5. Thereby, the door locking device 12 is unlocked, and the upper end portion 5b of the lower door 5 is slightly opened forward.

Next, the user places his hand on the upper end 5b of the lower door body 5 and pulls the lower door body 5 forward and downward. As a result, the lower door body 5 is opened toward the front and lower side of the main body 1. At this time, the upper door body 4 is also opened toward the front and lower side of the main body 1 in conjunction with the lower door body 5 by the door body opening and closing mechanism 10. Then, the upper door body 4 and the lower door body 5 are opened to a substantially horizontal state in a state where the upper door body 4 overlaps the lower door body 5. As a result, the opening 3 of the front surface of the washing tank 2 is opened toward the front.

Next, the user pulls out the lower cutlery basket 8 from the opening 3 of the open washing tank 2 and places the objects 6 to be washed in the lower cutlery basket 8. As described above, the lower cutlery basket 8 of the present embodiment has a structure suitable for placing the objects 6 to be washed as described below. That is, chopsticks, forks, spoons, etc. are stored in a dedicated small item box 89 provided slightly to the right of the center of the lower cutlery basket 8. Larger tableware such as large plates and ramen bowls are stored on the right side of the small item box 89. Large bowls, small bowls, medium plates, etc. are stored in the third placement basket 88 on the left side of the small item box 89.

Thus, when the lower cutlery basket 8 is finished placing the wash objects 6 , the user pushes the lower cutlery basket 8 into the washing tub 2 to store the lower cutlery basket 8 in the washing tub 2 .

Next, the user pulls out the upper cutlery basket 7 forward and places the objects 6 to be washed in the upper cutlery basket 7. As described above, the upper cutlery basket 7 of this embodiment has a structure suitable for placing the objects 6 to be washed as described below. That is, rice bowls, soup bowls, small plates, etc. are stored in the first placement basket 78 on the left side of the upper cutlery basket 7. Cups, lunch boxes, bowls, etc. are stored in the second placement basket 79 on the right side of the upper cutlery basket 7.

Thus, when the upper cutlery basket 7 is finished placing the wash objects 6 , the user pushes the upper cutlery basket 7 into the washing tub 2 to store the upper cutlery basket 7 in the washing tub 2 .

Next, the user puts an appropriate amount of detergent into the water storage part 18 of the washing tank 2 from the detergent input part 90 (see FIG. 8 ) provided in the lower dish basket 8. Then, the user closes the upper door 4 and the lower door 5.

Next, the user turns on the power of the dishwasher through the operation display unit 13 and inputs conditions such as the operation program and time. After inputting the conditions, the user presses the start button. As a result, the control unit starts the operation of the dishwasher and performs the washing step, the rinsing step, and the drying step in sequence according to the input conditions.

Specifically, first, the control unit operates the water supply valve to supply a predetermined amount of washing water into the washing tank 2. When the predetermined amount of water supply is completed, the control unit closes the water supply valve and drives the washing pump 22, the heater 25, etc. Thus, the washing water is heated by the heater 25. The heated washing water is pressurized by the washing pump 22 and supplied to the water diversion unit. The supplied washing water is selectively diverted from the water diversion unit and transported to the first rotating washing nozzle 14, the second rotating washing nozzle 15, the fixed washing nozzle 16, and the third rotating washing nozzle 17 connected to the fixed washing nozzle 16.

In addition, the water distribution unit operates in a manner that switches the delivery of cleaning water at predetermined intervals, for example, in sequence to the first rotating cleaning nozzle 14, the first rotating cleaning nozzle 14 and the second rotating cleaning nozzle 15, the second rotating cleaning nozzle 15, the fixed cleaning nozzle 16, and the third rotating cleaning nozzle 17 connected to the fixed cleaning nozzle 16.

At this time, the first rotary cleaning nozzle 14, the second rotary cleaning nozzle 15, and the third rotary cleaning nozzle 17 rotate using the reaction force when the supplied cleaning water is sprayed from the respective spray holes. Thus, the cleaning water is sprayed from each rotary cleaning nozzle to efficiently clean the objects 6 stored in the lower cutlery basket 8 and the upper cutlery basket 7.

Furthermore, the fixed cleaning nozzle 16 sprays cleaning water toward the upper cutlery basket 7 from the spray holes 16aa of the vertical portion 16a shown in FIG. 4 provided above the upper cutlery basket 7. Thus, the outer surface of the washed object 6 such as a cup stored in the upper cutlery basket 7 is efficiently cleaned. Furthermore, the fixed cleaning nozzle 16 sprays cleaning water mainly toward the right side of the upper cutlery basket 7 from the spray holes 16ba of the first horizontal portion 16b provided below the upper cutlery basket 7. Thus, the inner surface of the washed object 6 such as a cup stored in the second placement basket 79 of the upper cutlery basket 7 facing obliquely downward can be efficiently cleaned. Similarly, the fixed cleaning nozzle 16 sprays cleaning water from the spray holes 16ca arranged in the second horizontal portion 16c. Thus, the outer surface of the washed object 6 such as a cup stored in the second placement basket 79 on the right side of the upper cutlery basket 7 is cleaned.

In addition, the third rotating cleaning nozzle 17 connected to the fixed cleaning nozzle 16 sprays the rotating cleaning water from just below the first placing basket 78 on the left side of the upper cutlery basket 7. Thus, the inner and outer surfaces of the objects 6 such as rice bowls stored in the first placing basket 78 are efficiently cleaned.

Then, the washing water sprayed from the first rotating washing nozzle 14, the second rotating washing nozzle 15, the fixed washing nozzle 16, and the third rotating washing nozzle 17 connected to the fixed washing nozzle 16 in the washing tank 2 washes the washing object 6 and flows down to the water accumulation part 18 at the bottom of the washing tank 2, and is collected at the drain port 19. The collected washing water is sucked by the washing pump 22 again and passes through the residue filter 23. The washing water passing through the residue filter 23 is heated by the heater 25 and is supplied to each washing nozzle again.

At this time, the debris dropped from the object to be washed 6 by the sprayed washing water is collected by water collection portion cover 20 and debris filter 23 .

The dishwasher of this embodiment detects the temperature of washing water by temperature sensor 29. When the temperature of washing water exceeds a predetermined temperature (eg, about 60°C), the control unit stops supplying power to heater 25. Thus, washing water is always maintained at a temperature suitable for washing.

According to the above, when the washing step of the predetermined time is completed, the washing water containing dirt is discharged to the outside of the machine by the drain pump 27. Then, the control unit operates the water supply valve to supply new washing water to the washing tank 2. The supplied washing water is pressurized by the washing pump 22, and the pressurized washing water is supplied to the first rotating washing nozzle 14, the second rotating washing nozzle 15, the fixed washing nozzle 16, and the third rotating washing nozzle 17 connected to the fixed washing nozzle 16. The supplied washing water is sprayed from the spray holes of each washing nozzle. Thus, the control unit performs a rinsing step for washing detergent, residues, etc. attached to the object 6 to be washed.

Then, the control unit performs the rinsing action of the rinsing step for a predetermined time. Furthermore, the control unit uses the drain pump 27 to discharge the washing water containing the detergent and residue washed out of the washing object 6 by the rinsing action to the outside of the machine. Then, the control unit supplies new washing water to the washing tank 2 again and further performs the rinsing action. In addition, in the case of the rinsing step set by the standard, the rinsing action is performed three times, and the washing water is discharged to the outside of the machine by the drain pump 27. Thus, the rinsing step ends.

According to the above, when the rinsing step is completed, the control unit executes the drying step. In the drying step, the control unit operates the drying device 30 to supply air to the washing tank 2 via the built-in blower fan 31. At this time, the external air supplied to the drying device 30 is heated by the heater 34. Thus, the evaporation of water droplets attached to the object 6 to be cleaned is promoted by the effects of both air supply and heating. In addition, after the drying step is implemented for a predetermined time, the control unit stops the operation of the drying device 30 and ends the drying step. Thus, all steps of cleaning the object 6 to be cleaned are completed, and the execution of the selected operation program is completed.

The dishwasher of this embodiment operates and functions as described above.

As described above, the dishwasher of this embodiment includes: a main body 1; a washing tank 2, which is provided in the main body 1 and is used to store the objects 6 to be washed, such as dishes; a washing device such as the first rotating washing nozzle 14, which is used to wash the objects 6 to be washed stored in the washing tank 2; and a drying device 30, which dries the objects 6 to be washed stored in the washing tank 2. The drying device 30 includes: a heater 34, which is used to heat the drying air; a blower fan 31, which sends the drying air into the washing tank 2; a driving circuit unit, which is used to drive the heater 34 and the blower fan 31; and an air supply pipe 32, which is connected to the washing tank 2 at the drying air outlet 2c. In addition, the air supply pipe 32 has a damper 35 inside to suppress the entry of bubbles from the washing tank 2.

With this structure, it is possible to suppress the backflow of bubbles from the washing tank 2 into the air supply pipe 32 during the washing step and the rinsing step. In addition, in the drying step, the air heated by the heat accumulated in the washing tank 2 can be smoothly supplied to the washing tank 2 by the drying device 30. Thus, a dishwasher with high drying efficiency and energy saving can be provided.

In addition, with this structure, it is not necessary to provide the inverted U-shaped portion that was conventionally provided in the air supply pipe 32. Therefore, the heated drying air can be smoothly supplied to the washing tank 2 through the air supply pipe 32 having a short length and a small flow resistance. As a result, a small fan with low power consumption can be used as the air blower fan 31, so that the dishwasher can be further energy-efficient.

In addition, the air supply pipe 32 is configured to be substantially arranged in the vertical direction so that the flow of drying air is from top to bottom, the drying air outlet 2c is arranged at the lower part of the cleaning tank 2, and the damper 35 is arranged near the drying air outlet 2c. With this structure, it is possible to suppress the entry of bubbles from the cleaning tank 2 into the part above the damper 35 in the air supply pipe 32 during the washing step and the rinsing step. Thus, it is possible to prevent damage and malfunction of the electrical parts arranged in the air supply pipe 32. In addition, with this structure, even if bubbles enter the air supply pipe 32, the bubbles can be hydrated and moved downward or disappear by the air blown downward from the upper part of the air supply pipe 32 during the drying step.

In addition, the damper 35 is configured to open and close the inside of the air supply pipe 32 freely. The damper 35 is normally closed, and is opened by the flow of drying air generated by the driving of the blower fan 31. The damper 35 is closed by stopping the driving of the blower fan 31. With this configuration, it is possible to suppress the entry of bubbles from the washing tank 2 into the air supply pipe 32 in the washing step and the rinsing step when the blower fan 31 is not driven. In addition, in the drying step, the flow path of the drying air in the air supply pipe 32 is automatically opened, so that the drying air can be smoothly supplied to the washing tank 2.

In addition, the air supply pipe 32 has a damper closing rib 38 inside, which maintains the damper 35 closed under normal circumstances and limits the opening direction when the damper 35 is opened. With this structure, it is possible to suppress the entry of bubbles from the washing tank 2 into the air supply pipe 32 in the washing step and the rinsing step without driving the blower fan 31 with a simple structure. In addition, in the drying step, the flow path of the drying air in the air supply pipe 32 can be automatically and stably opened, and the drying air can be smoothly supplied to the washing tank 2.

In addition, the damper 35 is suspended in a manner that it can rotate around a rotation support shaft 35a provided above, and the damper closing rib 38 is configured to protrude from the wall surface of the air supply pipe 32 toward the inner side of the pipe. With this structure, it is possible to suppress the entry of bubbles from the cleaning tank 2 into the air supply pipe 32 in the washing step and the rinsing step without driving the air blower fan 31 with a simple structure. In addition, in the drying step, the flow path of the drying air in the air supply pipe 32 can be automatically and stably opened, and the drying air can be smoothly supplied to the cleaning tank 2.

In addition, the heater 34 is provided near the upper part of the damper 35 in the air supply pipe 32. With this structure, the heat loss caused by the drying air heated by the heater 34 passing through the air supply pipe 32 can be reduced, and the drying air can be supplied to the cleaning tank 2. In addition, the length of the electrical wiring for connecting the heater 34 and the control unit can be shortened. In addition, other electrical components can be arranged in the space above the heater 34 in the air supply pipe 32.

In addition, the dishwasher of this embodiment further includes a heater 25 for heating the washing water for washing the object 6 to be washed stored in the washing tank 2, and the heater 25 is built into the washing pump 22, that is, it is provided outside the washing tank 2. With this structure, the heater 34 for heating the drying air can be used exclusively for heating the drying air in the air supply pipe 32. Thus, the heater 34 for heating the drying air can be formed by a low-power heater, so that energy saving can be achieved. In addition, with this structure, among the washing water used for washing, only the washing water sucked into the washing water circulation path is heated and supplied to each washing nozzle. Therefore, the object 6 to be washed can be washed while the temperature of the washing water sprayed from each washing nozzle is maintained in a stable state. In addition, the heater 25 for heating the washing water can be formed by a low-power heater, so that energy saving can be further achieved.

As described above, the dishwasher of the present invention includes: a main body; a washing tank, which is provided in the main body and is used to store the objects to be washed; a washing device, which is used to wash the objects to be washed; and a drying device, which dries the objects to be washed. The drying device includes: an air heating heater, which is used to heat the drying air; a blower fan, which sends the drying air into the washing tank; a driving circuit unit, which is used to drive the air heating heater and the blower fan; and an air supply pipe, which is connected to the washing tank at the drying air outlet. The air supply pipe has a damper inside to suppress the entry of bubbles from the washing tank. With this structure, it is possible to suppress the backflow of bubbles from the washing tank to the air supply pipe 32 in the washing step and the rinsing step. In addition, the drying device can smoothly supply the washing tank with air heated by the heat accumulated in the washing tank in the drying step. Thus, it is possible to provide a dishwasher with high drying efficiency and energy saving.

In addition, with this structure, it is not necessary to provide the inverted U-shaped portion in the air supply pipe as was previously provided. Therefore, the heated drying air can be smoothly supplied to the cleaning tank through the air supply pipe with a short length and a small flow resistance. As a result, a small fan with low power consumption can be used as the air blower fan, thereby achieving further energy saving.

In addition, the dishwasher of the present invention may be such that the air supply pipe is configured so that the flow of drying air is from top to bottom and is substantially arranged in the vertical direction, the drying air outlet is arranged at the lower part of the washing tank, and the damper is arranged near the drying air outlet. With this structure, it is possible to suppress the entry of bubbles from the washing tank into the part above the damper in the air supply pipe during the washing step and the rinsing step. Thus, it is possible to prevent damage and malfunction of electrical parts arranged in the part above the damper in the air supply pipe. In addition, with this structure, even if bubbles enter the air supply pipe, they can be hydrated and moved downward or disappear in the drying step by the air blown downward from the upper part of the air supply pipe.

In addition, the dishwasher of the present invention may have a damper configured to open and close the interior of the air supply pipe freely, the damper being closed under normal circumstances, and being opened by the flow of drying air generated by driving the blower fan, and being closed by stopping driving the blower fan. With this structure, it is possible to suppress air bubbles from entering the air supply pipe from the washing tank during the washing step and the rinsing step when the blower fan is not driven. Furthermore, in the drying step, the flow path of the drying air in the air supply pipe is automatically opened, so that the drying air can be smoothly supplied to the washing tank.

In addition, the air supply pipe of the dishwasher of the present invention may be provided with a limiting member inside, which maintains the closure of the damper under normal circumstances and limits the opening direction when the damper is opened. With this structure, it is possible to suppress the entry of bubbles from the washing tank into the air supply pipe in the washing step and the rinsing step when the blower fan is not driven by a simple structure. In addition, in the drying step, the flow path of the drying air in the air supply pipe can be automatically and stably opened, and the drying air can be smoothly supplied to the washing tank.

In addition, the dishwasher of the present invention may be such that the damper is suspended in a manner that it can rotate around a rotating support shaft disposed above, and the limiting member is configured to protrude from the wall surface of the air supply pipe toward the inside of the pipe. With this structure, it is possible to use a simple structure to suppress the entry of bubbles from the cleaning tank into the air supply pipe during the cleaning step and the rinsing step when the blower fan is not driven. In addition, in the drying step, the flow path of the drying air in the air supply pipe can be automatically and stably opened, and the drying air can be smoothly supplied to the cleaning tank.

In addition, the dishwasher of the present invention may be provided with an air heating heater near the top of the air door in the air supply duct. With this structure, the heat loss of the drying air heated by the air heating heater passing through the air supply duct can be reduced, and the drying air can be supplied to the washing tank. In addition, the length of the electrical wiring for connecting the air heating heater and the control unit can be shortened. In addition, other electrical components can be arranged in the space above the air heating heater in the air supply duct.

In addition, the dishwashing machine of the present invention may also include a washing water heating heater, which is used to heat the washing water for washing the objects to be washed housed in the washing tank, and the washing water heating heater is internally arranged outside the washing tank. With this structure, the air heating heater can be used exclusively for heating the drying air in the air supply pipe. Thus, the air heating heater can be constructed using a low-power heater, thereby achieving energy saving. In addition, with this structure, among the washing water used for washing, only the washing water drawn into the washing water circulation path is heated and supplied to each washing nozzle. Therefore, the objects to be washed can be washed while the temperature of the washing water sprayed from each washing nozzle is maintained in a stable state. In addition, the washing water heating heater can be constructed using a low-power heater, thereby achieving further energy saving.

Industrial Applicability

The dishwasher of the present invention can suppress the backflow of bubbles from the washing tank and smoothly supply the air heated by the drying device into the washing tank. Therefore, it is useful as a household dishwasher placed on a kitchen work surface and the like for use with high drying efficiency and energy saving.

Claims (4)

1. A dishwashing machine, wherein: The dishwashing machine comprises: main body; A cleaning tank, which is arranged in the main body and is used to receive objects to be cleaned; A cleaning device, which is used to clean the object to be cleaned; and A drying device, which dries the object to be cleaned, The drying device comprises: An air heating heater, which is used to heat the drying air; A blast fan that delivers drying air into the cleaning tank; a driving circuit unit for driving the air heating heater and the air blowing fan; and an air supply pipe connected to the cleaning tank at a drying air outlet, The air supply pipe has a damper inside to prevent air bubbles from entering the cleaning tank. The air supply pipe is formed in a vertically long straight line shape and is configured to be arranged substantially in the vertical direction so that the flow of the drying air is from top to bottom. The air supply pipe has a limiting member inside, and the limiting member maintains the closure of the damper under normal circumstances and limits the opening direction when the damper is opened. The drying air outlet is arranged at the lower part of the cleaning tank, and the blower fan is arranged at a position above the drying air outlet. The damper is arranged near the drying air outlet and is suspended rotatably around a rotation support shaft provided above the damper. The limiting member is arranged to protrude inwardly from a wall surface of the air supply pipe in the pipe direction. 2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein: The damper is configured to allow the interior of the air supply pipe to be opened and closed freely. The damper is normally closed, is opened by the flow of the drying air generated by the driving of the blower fan, and is closed by stopping the driving of the blower fan. 3. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein: The air heating heater is provided in the air supply duct in the vicinity of an upper portion of the damper. 4. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein: The dishwasher further comprises a washing water heating heater for heating washing water for washing the objects to be washed housed in the washing tank. The washing water heating heater is provided outside the washing tank.