Fine filtration for a dishwasher appliance using powered diverter

Abstract

A filtering system for a dishwashing appliance that can remove fine particles from the wash and rinse fluids is provided. A filter cartridge is provided with different filter media for the removal of different particulate sizes depending upon e.g., the cycle or stage of the cleaning process and / or anticipated particle size. The filter cartridge is positioned upstream from the pump inlet. A mechanism for diverting flow between filter media is provided. In certain embodiments, the filter cartridge can be removable for servicing.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The subject matter of the present disclosure relates generally to filtration of the wash and / or rinse fluids in a dishwashing appliance.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]During wash and rinse cycles, dishwashers typically circulate a fluid through a wash chamber over articles such as pots, pans, silverware, and other cooking utensils. The fluid can be e.g., various combinations of water and detergent during the wash cycle or water (which may include additives) during the rinse cycle. Typically the fluid is recirculated during a given cycle using a pump. Fluid is collected at or near the bottom of the wash chamber and pumped back into the chamber through e.g., nozzles in the spray arms and other openings that direct the fluid against the articles to be cleaned or rinsed. Fluids used in e.g., the wash or rinse cycles may be heated. For example, hot water may be supplied to the dishwasher and / or the dishwasher may include one or more heat sources (e.g., elect...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a dishwashing appliance with a filtering system that can remove fine particles from the wash and rinse fluids. The filtering system includes a removable filter cartridge with different filter media for different particulate sizes and a diverter mechanism that selectively places any one of the openings of the filter receptacle in fluid communication with the pump inlet. This allows for the efficient removal of different sizes of particles during the cleaning process. The technical effect of the invention is to provide a more effective and thorough dishwashing appliance that reduces the amount of particles remaining on dishes, improves the quality of the wash, and extends the life of dishwashing appliance components.

Problems solved by technology

Depending upon the level of soil upon the articles, fluids used during wash and rinse cycles will become contaminated with soils in the form of debris or particles that are carried with the fluid.

However, while some smaller particles may not be harmful to the pump, leaving such particles in the wash or rinse fluid may not be acceptable as these particles may become deposited on the articles being washed / rinsed and thereby affect the user's perception of the cleanliness and / or appearance.

While larger particles can generally be readily removed from the fluid circulated through the wash chamber, challenges are presented in removing smaller particles—particularly as the particle size targeted for removal decreases.

For example, if a dishwashing appliance is provided with a fine particle filter—such as one for removing particles 200 microns or larger—the filter can be prone to clogging particularly during the early stages of the cleaning process.

Unfortunately, this run, drain, and refill approach for unclogging a filter is inefficient as it requires the use of additional fluid (i.e. water) and, when the fluid is heated, additional energy is consumed as the fluid is drained and the new water is reheated.

Of course, a filter media can be selected that only captures larger particles so that it clogs less, such as e.g., 0.30″ or larger, but this comes at the expense of losing the ability to remove smaller particles from the fluid and an associated effect on the resulting cleanliness of the articles.

Another challenge with filtration of the wash fluid is servicing of the filter and, more particularly, the filter media.

Certain conventional dishwashing appliances do not have a filter that is readily accessible to the user and / or otherwise readily cleanable or serviceable.

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