Filter cleaner for a dishwashing appliance

Abstract

A cleaner is provided for a filter of a dishwashing appliance. The filter cleaner rotates within the filter and uses nozzles to remove particulates on the filter surface. Energy from fluid flow caused by a pump is used to rotate the filter cleaner. The particulates removed from the filter are pumped away for disposal.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The subject matter of the present disclosure relates generally to cleaning of a fluid filter used 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., electrically-res...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent provides a cleaner for a dishwashing appliance's filter. The cleaner rotates within the filter and uses nozzles to remove particulate matter. The particles are pumped away for disposal. The invention also includes a dishwashing appliance with the cleaner. These features improve the efficiency and effectiveness of dishwashing appliances.

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.

Unfortunately, the fine filter is subject to clogging during the cleaning process, which can substantially reduce the flow of fluid provided to the pump and / or reduce the amount of fluid that can be cleaned using the fine filter.

It is undesirable to manually remove and clean or replace the filter during the cleaning process.

However, all or most of the resulting soiled water must then be drained out of the appliance, thereby causing the appliance to consume more water during the cleaning cycle.

Another potential approach is the use of a flow of water at an angle to the filter surface to dislodge particles, but this approach also results in additional water consumption.

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