Dishwasher with tubular spray element beverage washing system

Abstract

A dishwasher, a dishwasher sprayer, and a method of spraying, utilize a tubular spray element to direct fluid to a spray at one or more drinkware sprayers located within a wash tub and physically spaced apart from the tubular spray element. Each drinkware sprayer includes one or more outlets in fluid communication with a fluid collector facing the tubular spray element and configured to receive a spray of fluid from the tubular spray element when the tubular spray element is rotated to a predetermined position, and route the received fluid out of the one or more outlets to wash an interior of a drinkware item located above the drinkware sprayer.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Dishwashers are used in many single-person and multi-person residential applications to clean plates, silverware, cutlery, cups, glasses, deep pots, pans, and other items (collectively referred to herein as "appliances"). Many dishwashers rely primarily on rotating spray arms located at the bottom and / or top of the tub and / or mounted to a bracket that holds the applicator. The spray arms are coupled to a source of wash fluid and include multiple orifices for spraying the wash fluid onto the applicator, and typically rotate about a central hub such that each orifice follows a circular path throughout the rotation of the spray arm. The orifices may also be tilted such that the force of the wash fluid exiting the spray arm causes the spray arm to rotate about the central hub.

[0002] While traditional spray arm systems are simple and mostly effective, they have drawbacks. These systems require the spray arm to distribute the wash fluid evenly across all areas to achieve satisfactory results. This often wastes resources such as time, energy, and water because the wash fluid cannot be precisely concentrated where needed. Furthermore, because the spray arm follows a roughly circular path, the corners of the tub may not be completely covered, resulting in less effective cleaning of appliances located in the corners of the rack. Additionally, in some cases, the spray stream is directed towards the sides of the wash tub during at least several phases of rotation, causing unwanted noise during the wash cycle.

[0003] Unlike traditional spray arm systems, this method uses one or more tubular spray elements to spray wash fluid onto appliances within the dishwasher. A tubular spray element is a rotatable conduit that both delivers wash fluid along its length and sprays wash fluid through various orifices on its outer surface. Tubular spray elements are typically formed of an elongated body and rotate about their longitudinal axis in a controlled or uncontrolled manner (e.g., based on electric drive, hydraulic drive, or due to the rotational force applied by the spraying of wash fluid from the tubular spray element).

[0004] However, it has been found that washing the interiors of certain types of utensils, such as bottles and other drinking vessels, is challenging for conventional spray arm systems, and even for systems based on tubular spray elements, due to the relatively narrow openings of these utensils and the difficulty in maintaining them in the proper washing direction throughout the wash cycle. Therefore, there remains a need for improved methods of washing bottles and other types of drinking vessels in dishwashers. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The embodiments described herein address these and other problems relevant to the art by providing a dishwasher, a dishwasher sprayer, and a spraying method, wherein a tubular spraying element is selectively directed toward one or more beverage sprayers located in a washing tub and physically spaced apart from the tubular spraying element. Each beverage sprayer includes one or more outlets in fluid communication with a fluid collector facing the tubular spraying element and configured to receive fluid sprayed from the tubular spraying element when the tubular spraying element is rotated to a predetermined position, and to discharge the received fluid along a path from the one or more outlets to wash the interior of beverage items located above the beverage sprayer.

[0006] Therefore, according to one aspect of the invention, a dishwasher may include: a washing tub; a tubular jet element disposed within the washing tub and rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the tubular jet element, the tubular jet element including one or more orifices extending through an outer surface of the tubular jet element and in fluid communication with a fluid supply section to guide fluid from the fluid supply section into the washing tub through the one or more orifices; a tubular jet element driver coupled to the tubular jet element and configured to rotate the tubular jet element between a plurality of rotational positions about a longitudinal axis of the tubular jet element; and a beverage ejector located within the washing tub and physically spaced apart from the tubular jet element. The beverage ejector may include one or more outlets in fluid communication with a fluid collector facing the tubular jet element, the fluid collector being configured to receive fluid from the tubular jet element when the tubular jet element rotates to a predetermined rotational position and to route the received washing fluid through the one or more outlets to wash the interior of beverage items located above the beverage ejector.

[0007] Some embodiments may also include a controller connected to the tubular jet element driver, and the controller may be configured to control the tubular jet element driver to discontinuously guide the tubular jet element to predetermined rotational positions to direct fluid from the fluid supply toward the fluid collector. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the controller may also be configured to control the tubular jet element driver to discontinuously guide the tubular jet element to different rotational positions to direct fluid from the fluid supply toward one or more utensils in the washing tub, excluding drinking utensils. Further, in some embodiments, the drinking utensil sprayer may be supported in a holder, and one or more utensils are located in the holder at a different position than the drinking utensils.

[0008] In some embodiments, the drinking spout may be supported in a first support, and one or more utensils may be located in a second support. Additionally, in some embodiments, the controller may be configured to: control the tubular spray element driver to rotate or oscillate the tubular spray element during a washing cycle; and when the tubular spray element is in a predetermined rotational position, temporarily pause the tubular spray element driver during the rotation or oscillation of the tubular spray element to guide fluid from the fluid supply section toward the fluid collector.

[0009] In some embodiments, a support may also be included, which is supported within the washing tub and movable between a loading position and a washing position, and the beverage ejector may be supported by the support. In some embodiments, the support is formed of coated metal wire, and the beverage ejector snaps onto one or more of the coated metal wire. Additionally, in some embodiments, the beverage ejector is a first beverage ejector located at a first position on the support, and the dishwasher may also include one or more additional beverage ejectors located at multiple additional positions on the support, and the one or more additional positions may be arranged such that a corresponding fluid collector at the one or more additional positions is configured to receive fluid from the tubular ejector element when the tubular ejector element rotates to a predetermined rotational position. Moreover, in some embodiments, the first position and the one or more additional positions may be arranged along an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tubular ejector element, and one or more orifices of the tubular ejector element may include a plurality of orifices positioned along the tubular ejector element to guide fluid toward the fluid collectors of each of the first beverage ejector and the one or more additional beverage ejectors.

[0010] In some embodiments, the predetermined rotation position may be a first predetermined rotation position, and the beverage ejector may be a first beverage ejector disposed at a first position on the support. The dishwasher may also include a second beverage ejector disposed at a second position on the support, and the second position may be arranged such that the fluid collector of the second beverage ejector is configured to receive fluid from the tubular ejector when the tubular ejector element rotates to the second rotation position.

[0011] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rotation position may be generally vertical, and the fluid collector may have a generally horizontal opening. In some embodiments, the rotation position may form an acute angle with respect to the vertical direction, and the fluid collector may have an opening that opens toward the tubular jet element.

[0012] Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more outlets may include a top outlet that directs fluid toward the bottom inner surface of the drinking vessel. In some embodiments, one or more outlets may include side outlets that direct fluid toward the side inner surface of the drinking vessel. Moreover, in some embodiments, one or more outlets may include a movable outlet disposed on a movable body. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the movable body may include a rotatable body.

[0013] In some embodiments, the beverage sprayer may include a plurality of beverage supports configured to support the body of a beverage item positioned above the sprayer. Additionally, in some embodiments, the sprayer may be funnel-shaped, and the plurality of beverage supports may include inclined fins supporting the opening of the beverage item. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the tubular spray element may be in fluid communication with an air supply to guide air from the air supply into a washing tub through one or more orifices to dry the interior of the beverage item.

[0014] These and other advantages and features characterizing the invention are set forth in the appended claims and form another part of the invention. However, for a better understanding of the invention and the advantages and objectives obtained through its use, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and the accompanying description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are described. This “Summary” is provided merely to introduce the selection of concepts further described in the following detailed description and is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a dishwasher according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 2 It is used for Figure 1 A block diagram of an exemplary control system for a dishwasher.

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A side perspective view of the tubular jet element and the tubular jet element driver of the dishwasher.

[0018] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional view of the tubular injection element and the tubular injection element driver.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a partial cross-sectional view of another tubular jet element and a tubular jet element driver according to some embodiments of the present invention, and includes a valve for restricting the flow to the tubular jet element.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a functional top view of an exemplary embodiment of a wall-mounted tubular jet element and a tubular jet element driver according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a functional top view of an exemplary embodiment of a bracket-mounted tubular jet element and a tubular jet element driver according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a functional top view of another exemplary embodiment of a bracket-mounted tubular jet element and a tubular jet element driver according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a functional perspective view of a dishwasher incorporating multiple tubular jet elements according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 10 and Figure 11 This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a dishwasher bracket incorporating a tubular jet element beverage washing system according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 and Figure 11 An enlarged top view of a portion of the dishwasher bracket.

[0026] Figure 13 yes Figures 10 to 12 A three-dimensional view of one of the beverage dispensers shown.

[0027] Figure 14 This is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the spraying operation of a drinking vessel according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A side elevation view of another exemplary embodiment of the drinking spout.

[0029] Figure 16 It is a side cross-sectional view showing the operation of a plurality of beverage dispensers, wherein the plurality of beverage dispensers are located at positions configured to receive washing fluid at different rotational positions of the same tubular jet element. Detailed Implementation

[0030] In some embodiments of the invention, the tubular jet element can support the washing of bottles and other drinking utensils by using one or more drinking utensils sprayers located within a washing tub and physically spaced apart from the tubular jet element. Each drinking utensils sprayer includes one or more outlets in fluid communication with a fluid collector facing the tubular jet element and configured to receive jets from the tubular jet element when the tubular jet element is rotated to a predetermined position, and to discharge the received fluid along a path from the one or more outlets to wash the interior of drinking utensils located above the drinking utensils sprayer.

[0031] In this respect, a tubular jet element can be considered a rotatable conduit comprising a body capable of communicating with a washing fluid such as water, comprising water, detergent and / or another treatment component, or pressurized air, and capable of communicating the fluid to one or more orifices or nozzles to jet the fluid onto the appliance within the washing tub. The tubular jet element typically comprises an elongated body, which in some embodiments may be generally cylindrical, but in other embodiments may have other cross-sectional profiles, and the elongated body has one or more orifices disposed on its outer surface, and is in fluid communication with a fluid supply, for example, through one or more internal channels defined within the elongated body. The tubular jet element also has a longitudinal axis, which is typically defined along its longest dimension, and the tubular jet element rotates about this longitudinal axis. Additionally, when the tubular jet element is mounted on a support and configured to selectively engage with a mating member based on the position of the support, this longitudinal axis can also be considered an insertion axis. The tubular jet element may also have a cross-sectional profile that varies along its longitudinal axis; therefore, it is understood that the tubular jet element does not need to have a circular cross-sectional profile along its length, as shown in many embodiments herein. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or more orifices on the outer surface of the tubular jet element may be arranged as nozzles and may be fixed or movable (e.g., rotated, oscillating, etc.) relative to other orifices on the tubular jet element. Additionally, the outer surface of the tubular jet element may be defined over multiple components of the tubular jet element; that is, the outer surface does not need to be formed from a single, integral component.

[0032] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the tubular jet element may be discontinuously guided by a tubular jet element driver to multiple rotational positions about a longitudinal axis to jet fluid into the dishwasher's washing tub in a predetermined direction during a washing cycle. In some embodiments, the tubular jet element may be operatively coupled by a support device to a driver that both rotates the tubular jet element and supplies fluid to it, as will become more apparent below. Further details regarding the tubular jet element can be found, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 10,531,781 to Digman et al., which has been assigned to the same assignee as the assignee of this application and is incorporated herein by reference. However, in other embodiments, the tubular jet element may be rotated in a less controlled manner, for example, by using an electric drive, a hydraulic drive, or based on a force generated in response to the jetting of washing fluid from the tubular jet element itself. In this context, the rotational position of the tubular jet element may not be controlled discontinuously and / or may be known at any given time, although in some embodiments, other aspects of the rotation or operation of the tubular jet element may still be controlled, such as rotational speed, whether rotation is enabled or disabled, and / or whether fluid flow is supplied to the tubular jet element, etc.

[0033] Dishwasher

[0034] Now turn to the accompanying drawings, in which the same numbers throughout the multiple views represent the same parts. Figure 1 An exemplary dishwasher 10 is shown, in which various technologies and processes described herein can be implemented. The dishwasher 10 is a household built-in dishwasher and therefore includes a front door 12 that provides access to a washing tub 16 housed within a cabinet or housing 14. The door 12 is typically hinged along its bottom edge and can be... Figure 1 The dishwasher 10 pivots between an open position and a closed position (not shown). When the door 12 is in the open position, access is provided to one or more sliding supports (e.g., lower support 18 and upper support 20) in which various appliances are placed for washing. The lower support 18 can be supported on rollers 22, while the upper support 20 can be supported on side rails 24, and each support can move horizontally between the loading (extended) and washing (retracted) positions. User control of the dishwasher 10 is typically achieved via a control panel located on the top or front of the door 12. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image) to manage, and it will be understood that in different dishwasher designs, the control panel may include various types of input and / or output devices, including various knobs, buttons, lights, switches, text and / or graphic displays, touch screens, etc., through which the user can configure one or more settings and start and stop washing cycles.

[0035] Furthermore, according to some embodiments of the invention, the dishwasher 10 may include one or more tubular jet elements (TSEs) 26 for directing washing fluid onto the appliance disposed in the supports 18, 20. As will become more apparent below, the tubular jet elements 26 are rotatable about their respective longitudinal axes and can be driven by one or more tubular jet elements ( Figure 1 (Not shown) is guided discontinuously, thereby controlling the direction of each jet of fluid in the tubular jet element. In some embodiments, fluid may be distributed only through the tubular jet element; however, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, in some embodiments, various upper and / or lower rotating spray arms may also be provided to direct additional fluid onto the appliance. Other injectors, including various combinations of wall-mounted injectors, bracket-mounted injectors, oscillating injectors, fixed injectors, rotary injectors, converging injectors, etc., may also be combined with one or more tubular jet elements in some embodiments of the invention.

[0036] Some tubular jet elements 26 can be fixedly mounted to the wall or other structure within the washing tub 16, for example, this may be the case for tubular jet elements 26 positioned below or adjacent to the lower support 18. For other tubular jet elements 26, such as bracket-mounted tubular jet elements, the tubular jet element can be removably coupled to a docking device, for example, mounted to... Figure 1 The docking device 28 is located on the rear wall of the washing tub 16.

[0037] The embodiments discussed below will focus on implementing the techniques described below in a hinged-door dishwasher. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the techniques described herein can also be used in conjunction with other types of dishwashers. For example, in some embodiments, the techniques described herein can be used in commercial applications. Furthermore, at least some of the techniques described herein can be used in conjunction with other dishwasher configurations, including dishwashers using sliding drawers or sink-type dishwashers, such as dishwashers integrated into the sink.

[0038] Turn now Figure 2The dishwasher 10 can be under the control of a controller 30, which receives input from multiple components and drives those components in response to the input. For example, the controller 30 may include one or more processors and a memory (not shown), which may store program code for execution by the one or more processors. The memory may be embedded in the controller 30, but may also be considered to include volatile and / or non-volatile memory, cache memory, flash memory, programmable read-only memory, read-only memory, etc., as well as storage memory physically located elsewhere outside the controller 30, such as in a mass storage device or on a remote computer that interfaces with the controller 30.

[0039] like Figure 2 As shown, the controller 30 can be connected to various components, including an inlet valve 32 connected to a water source to introduce water into the wash tub 16, which, when combined with detergent, rinse aid, and / or other additives, forms various washing fluids. The controller can also be connected to a heater 34 for heating the fluid, a pump 36 for recirculating the washing fluid within the wash tub by pumping the fluid to the wash arms and other jetting devices in the dishwasher, an air supply 38 providing a pressurized air source for drying appliances in the dishwasher, a drain valve 40 connected to a drain section to direct the fluid out of the dishwasher, and a diverter 42 for controlling the routes to different tubular jetting elements, spray arms, and / or other jets during the wash cycle. In some embodiments, a single pump 36 may be used, and the drain valve 40 may be configured to direct the pumped fluid to either the drain section or the diverter 42, such that the pump 36 is used both to drain fluid from the dishwasher and to recirculate the fluid throughout the dishwasher during the wash cycle. In other embodiments, a separate pump may be used to empty the dishwasher and recirculate the fluid. In some embodiments, the diverter 42 may be a passive diverter that automatically sorts fluids among different outlets, while in other embodiments, the diverter 42 may be a controllable powered diverter to direct fluids along a path to a specific outlet as needed. In other embodiments, and as will be discussed in more detail below, each tubular jet element may be individually controlled, thus eliminating the need for a separate diverter. In various embodiments, the air supply unit 38 may be implemented as an air pump or fan and may include a heater and / or other air conditioning equipment to control the temperature and / or humidity of the pressurized air output from the air supply unit.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, pump 36 and air supply unit 38 jointly provide fluid supply to dishwasher 100, thereby providing a source of washing fluid and pressurized air for use during the washing and drying operations of the washing cycle, respectively. The washing fluid can be considered a fluid, typically a liquid, including at least water, and in some cases, contains additional components such as detergent, rinsing aids, and other additives. For example, during the rinsing operation, the washing fluid may consist only of water. In some cases, the washing fluid may also include steam. Pressurized air is typically used in the drying operation and may or may not be heated and / or dehumidified before being sprayed into the washing tub. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the pressurized air may not be used for drying purposes, and therefore air supply unit 38 may be omitted in some cases. Additionally, in some cases, tubular spray elements may be used only for spraying washing fluid or spraying pressurized air, while other sprayers or spray arms are used for other purposes; therefore, the invention is not limited to using tubular spray elements for spraying both washing fluid and pressurized air.

[0041] The controller 30 may also be coupled to the dispenser 44 to trigger the dispensing of detergent and / or rinsing agent into the washing tub at appropriate points during the washing cycle. In some embodiments, additional sensors and actuators may also be used, including a temperature sensor 46 for determining the temperature of the washing fluid, a door switch 48 for determining when the door 12 is latched, and a door lock 50 for preventing the door from being opened during the washing cycle. Additionally, the controller 30 may be coupled to a user interface 52, which includes various input / output devices such as knobs, dials, sliders, switches, buttons, lights, text and / or graphic displays, touchscreen displays, speakers, image capture devices, microphones, etc., for receiving input from and communicating with the user. In some embodiments, the controller 30 may also be coupled to one or more network interfaces 54, for example, for interfacing with external devices via wired and / or wireless networks such as Ethernet, Bluetooth, NFC, cellular, and other suitable networks. As will be understood by those skilled in the art benefiting from this disclosure, additional components may also be coupled to the controller 30. For example, in some embodiments, one or more tubular jet element (TSE) drivers 56 and / or one or more tubular jet element (TSE) valves 58 may be provided to control one or more tubular jet elements disposed in the dishwasher 10 in a discontinuous manner, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0042] It should be understood that, in some embodiments, each tubular jet element driver 56 may also provide feedback to the controller 30, such as current position and / or speed, although in other embodiments a separate position sensor may be used. Furthermore, as will become more apparent below, in some embodiments, for example, where rotation of the tubular jet element by the tubular jet element driver is used to actuate a mechanical valve, flow regulation of the tubular jet element can be performed without using a separately controlled tubular jet element valve 58.

[0043] Additionally, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the controller 30 may be implemented externally to the dishwasher, for example, within a mobile device, cloud computing environment, etc., such that at least a portion of the functions described herein are implemented within a portion externally implemented to the controller. In some embodiments, the controller 30 may operate under the control of an operating system and may execute or otherwise depend on various computer software applications, components, programs, objects, modules, data structures, etc. Furthermore, the controller 30 may also incorporate hardware logic to implement some or all of the functions disclosed herein. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the order in which the controller 30 performs operations to implement the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented using program code comprising one or more instructions residing at various times in various memories and storage devices, and performing operations embodying the desired functionality when read and executed by one or more hardware-based processors. Furthermore, in some embodiments, such program code may be distributed as a program product in various forms, and the invention is equally applicable regardless of the specific type of computer-readable medium used for actual execution of the distribution, including, for example, non-transitory computer-readable storage media. Moreover, it should be understood that the various operations described herein may be combined, split, reordered, reversed, altered, omitted, parallelized, and / or supplemented using other techniques known in the art; therefore, the invention is not limited to the specific order of operations described herein.

[0044] Figures 1 to 2 Many variations and modifications of the dishwasher shown will be apparent to those skilled in the art, as will become apparent from the following description. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments discussed herein.

[0045] Tubular spray element

[0046] Turn now Figure 3In some embodiments, the dishwasher may include one or more discontinuously guided tubular jet elements, such as a tubular jet element 100 coupled to a tubular jet element driver 102. The tubular jet element 100 may be configured as a tube or other elongated body disposed within the washing tub and rotatable about a longitudinal axis L. Furthermore, the tubular jet element 100 is typically hollow or includes at least one or more internal fluid channels in fluid communication with one or more orifices 104 extending through the outer surface of the tubular jet element 100. Each orifice 104 can be used to guide fluid into the washing tub, and each orifice can be configured in various ways to provide various types of jet patterns, such as streams, fan sprays, concentrated sprays, etc. In some cases, the orifice 104 may also be configured as a fluid nozzle providing an oscillating jet pattern.

[0047] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, orifices 104 can all be positioned to guide fluid from axis L in the same radial direction, thereby concentrating all fluid jets in approximately the same radial direction indicated by arrow R. However, in other embodiments, the orifices can be arranged differently around the outer surface of the tubular jet element, for example, to provide jets from two, three, or more radial directions, thereby distributing the jet flow across one or more arcs around the circumference of the tubular jet element, etc.

[0048] The tubular jet element 100 is in fluid communication with the fluid supply unit 106, for example, through a port 108 of the tubular jet element driver 102, to guide fluid from the fluid supply unit into the washing tub through one or more orifices 104. The tubular jet element driver 102 is coupled to the tubular jet element 100 and is configured to guide the tubular jet element 100 discontinuously to each of a plurality of rotational positions about the longitudinal axis L. "Discontinuously guiding" means that the tubular jet element driver 102 is capable of rotating the tubular jet element 100 approximately to a controlled rotational angle (or at least within a range of rotational angles) about the longitudinal axis L. Therefore, unlike uncontrolled rotation of the tubular jet element 100 or uncontrolled oscillation of the tubular jet element between two fixed rotational positions, the tubular jet element driver 102 is capable of intelligently focusing the jet of fluid from the tubular jet element 100 between a plurality of rotational positions. It should also be understood that rotating the tubular injection element to a controlled rotation angle can refer to an absolute rotation angle (e.g., about 10 degrees from the initial position) or a relative rotation angle (e.g., about 10 degrees from the current position).

[0049] The tubular jet element driver 102 is also shown having an electrical connection 110 for coupling to the controller 112, and a housing 114 for accommodating the various components in the tubular jet element driver 102 is shown, which will be discussed in more detail below. In the illustrated embodiment, the tubular jet element driver 102 is configured as a base that supports the end of the tubular jet element by a rotatable coupling and effectively positions the tubular jet element in fluid communication with the port 108.

[0050] With intelligent control provided by the tubular jet element driver 102 and / or controller 112, the jet pattern and cycle parameters can be increased and optimized for different situations. For example, a tubular jet element near the center of the washing tub can be configured to rotate 360 ​​degrees, while a tubular jet element located near the wall of the washing tub can be limited to rotating approximately 180 degrees to avoid direct spraying onto any of the walls of the washing tub, which can be a significant noise source in a dishwasher. In another instance, it is desirable to guide or concentrate the tubular jet element to a fixed rotation position or a small range of rotation positions (e.g., about 5 to 10 degrees) to provide a concentrated jet of liquid, steam, and / or air, for example, for cleaning silverware or baking crumbs in a pan. Furthermore, in some cases, the rotational speed of the tubular jet element can be varied throughout the rotation to provide a longer duration within a specific range of rotation positions, and thus a more concentrated wash in a specific area of ​​the washing tub, while still maintaining 360-degree rotation. In different embodiments of the invention, control of the tubular jet element may include control of the rotation position, rotational speed or rate, and / or rotation direction.

[0051] Figure 4 An exemplary embodiment of the tubular injection element 100 and the tubular injection element driver 102 is shown in more detail, with the housing 114 omitted for clarity. In this embodiment, the tubular injection element driver 102 includes an electric motor 116, which can be an alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) motor, such as a brushless DC motor, a stepper motor, etc., mechanically coupled to the tubular injection element 100 via a gearbox including a pair of gears 118, 120 respectively coupled to the motor 116 and the tubular injection element 100. In other embodiments, other methods of mechanically coupling the motor 116 to the tubular injection element 100 may be used, such as different numbers and / or types of gears, belt and pulley drivers, magnetic drives, hydraulic drives, linkages, friction, etc.

[0052] Additionally, an optional position sensor 122 may be disposed within the tubular injection element driver 102 to determine the rotational position of the tubular injection element 100 about axis L. In some embodiments, the position sensor 122 may be an encoder or a Hall sensor, or may be implemented in other ways, such as being integrated into a stepper motor, thereby using the rotational position of the motor to determine the rotational position of the tubular injection element. The position sensor 122 may also sense only a limited rotational position about axis L (e.g., an initial position, 30 or 45-degree increments, etc.). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rotational position may be controlled using time and programming logic, for example, relative to an initial position, and in some cases, there may be no feedback from the motor or position sensor. In some embodiments, the position sensor 122 may also be located external to the tubular injection element driver 102.

[0053] The internal channel 124 in the tubular injection element 100 is connected to the port 108 in the tubular injection element driver 102 via a rotary coupling 128. Figure 4 The internal passage 126 (not shown) is in fluid communication. In one exemplary embodiment, the coupling 128 is formed by a bearing 130 mounted in the passage 126, wherein one or more deformable tabs 134 are disposed at the end of the tubular jet element 100 to secure the tubular jet element 100 to the tubular jet element driver 102. A seal 132, such as a lip seal, may also be formed between the tubular jet element 100 and the tubular jet element driver 102. In other embodiments, other methods may be used to rotatably couple the tubular jet element while providing fluid flow.

[0054] Turning Figure 5 In some embodiments, it may also be desirable to incorporate valve 140 into tubular injection element actuator 142 to regulate fluid flow to tubular injection element 144 (for clarity, from...). Figure 5 (Other components of the actuator 142 are omitted). In some embodiments, valve 140 may be an on / off valve, or in other embodiments, valve 140 may be a variable valve for controlling flow. In other embodiments, the valve may be located external to the tubular injection element actuator, or otherwise separate from the tubular injection element actuator, and may be dedicated to the tubular injection element or for controlling multiple tubular injection elements. Valve 140 may be integrated with or otherwise adjacent to a rotary coupling between the tubular injection element 144 and the tubular injection element actuator 142. Water can be saved by regulating the fluid flow to the tubular injection element, for example by selectively closing the tubular injection element, and / or a high-pressure zone can be created by pushing all hydraulic power through a smaller number of tubular injection elements.

[0055] In some embodiments, valve 140 can be actuated independently of rotation of the tubular jet element 144, for example using an iris valve, butterfly valve, gate valve, plunger valve, piston valve, valve with a rotatable disc, ball valve, etc., and is actuated by a solenoid, motor, or other mechanism separate from the mechanism of rotating the tubular jet element 144. However, in other embodiments, valve 140 can be actuated by rotation of the tubular jet element 144. In some embodiments, for example, rotation of the tubular jet element 144 to a predetermined rotational position can close valve 140, for example, in which case valve 140 includes an arcuate passage that allows fluid flow only within a range of rotational positions. In other embodiments, valve can be actuated by excessive rotation of the tubular jet element or by reverse rotation of the tubular jet element. Additionally, in some embodiments, the valve may be variable, for example, configured as an iris valve to regulate fluid flow to the tubular jet element, and in some embodiments, the valve may be actuated independently of rotation of the tubular jet element (e.g., via a solenoid or motor), or may be actuated using suitable mechanical linkages via rotation of the tubular jet element (e.g., by rotation to a predetermined position, over-rotation, or reverse rotation). Other variations will be understood by those skilled in the art upon receiving this disclosure.

[0056] Turn now Figures 6 to 8 In different embodiments, the tubular jet element can be installed inside the washing tub in various ways. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 3 As discussed above, in some embodiments, the tubular jet element can be mounted to the wall of the washing tub (e.g., side wall, rear wall, top wall, bottom wall, or door) and can be oriented in various directions, such as horizontal, vertical, front-to-back, side-to-side, or at an angle. It should also be understood that the tubular jet element driver can be disposed within the washing tub, for example, mounted on the wall of the washing tub or on a bracket or other support structure, or alternatively, some or all of the tubular jet element drivers can be disposed outside the washing tub, for example, such that a portion of the tubular jet element driver or tubular jet element protrudes through an orifice in the washing tub. Alternatively, a magnetic actuator can be used to drive the tubular jet element in the washing tub using an externally mounted tubular jet element driver.

[0057] In addition, such as Figure 6 The tubular injection element 150 shown is not like... Figure 3 The tubular jet element 150 is cantilevered, similar to the tubular jet element 100. Alternatively, the tubular jet element can be mounted on the wall 152 of the washing tub and supported at both ends by hubs 154 and 156, one or both of which may include components of the tubular jet element driver. In this respect, the tubular jet element 150 extends substantially parallel to the wall 152, rather than... Figure 3The tubular injection element 100 extends approximately perpendicular to the wall 152, just like the tubular injection element 100.

[0058] In other embodiments, the tubular injection element may be bracket-mounted. For example, Figure 7 A tubular jet element 160 is shown that can be mounted on a bracket (not shown) and can be engaged with a docking port 164 on a washing tub wall 166 via a docking member 162. In this embodiment, the tubular jet element driver 168 is also bracket-mounted, and therefore, in addition to the fluid connection between the docking member 162 and the docking port 164, a plurality of cooperating contacts 170, 172 are provided on the docking member 162 and the docking port 164 to provide power to the tubular jet element driver 168 and to provide electrical communication with the controller 174.

[0059] As an alternative, and as Figure 8 As shown, the tubular jet element 176 may be bracket-mounted, but the tubular jet element driver 178 is separate and not bracket-mounted; instead, it is mounted to the wall 180 of the washing tub. The docking member 182 and docking port 184 provide fluid communication with the tubular jet element 176 and the ability to rotate the tubular jet element 176 about its longitudinal axis under the control of the tubular jet element driver 178. Control of the tubular jet element driver 178 is provided by a controller 186. In some cases, the tubular jet element driver 178 may include a rotatable keyed channel in which the end of the tubular jet element can be accommodated.

[0060] then, Figure 9 A dishwasher 188 is shown. The dishwasher 188 includes a washing tub 190, an upper support 192, and a lower support 194, and has a plurality of tubular jet elements 196, 198, and 199 distributed throughout the washing tub 190, the tubular jet elements being used to circulate washing fluid through the dishwasher. The tubular jet element 196 may be bracket-mounted, supported on the underside of the upper support 192, and extending from rear to front within the washing tub 190. The tubular jet element 196 may also be connected to a tubular jet element driver mounted on the rear wall. Figure 9 (Not shown in the image) Docking, for example, as shown above. Figure 8The tubular jet elements 196 are discussed below. Furthermore, the tubular jet elements 196 can be rotatably supported at one or more points along their respective longitudinal axes via a connector (not shown) suspended from the upper bracket 192. Thus, the tubular jet elements 196 can perform upward jetting into the upper bracket 192 and / or downward jetting into the lower bracket 194, and in some embodiments, the tubular jet elements 196 can be used to concentrate washing fluid onto the silverware basket or other areas of either bracket for concentrated washing. The tubular jet elements 198 can be wall-mounted below the lower bracket 194 and can be supported at both ends against the side walls of the washing tub 190, extending side-to-side and generally transverse to the tubular jet elements 196. In some embodiments, each tubular jet element 196, 198 can have a separate tubular jet element driver, while in other embodiments, some or all of the tubular jet elements 196, 198 can be coupled and driven by a common tubular jet element driver.

[0061] In some embodiments, the tubular jet elements 196, 198 themselves can provide sufficient washing action and coverage. However, in other embodiments, additional tubular jet elements may be used, such as tubular jet element 199 supported above upper bracket 192 on one or both of the top and rear walls of the washing tub 190. Furthermore, in some embodiments, additional spray arms and / or other jets may be used. It will also be understood that, although... Figure 9 The illustration shows 10 tubular jet elements, but in other embodiments, more or fewer tubular jet elements may be used.

[0062] It will also be understood that, in some embodiments, multiple tubular jet elements may be driven by the same tubular jet element driver, for example, using gears, belt drives, or other mechanical couplings. Furthermore, the tubular jet elements may be movable in various directions in addition to rotating about their longitudinal axis, for example, moving transversely to the longitudinal axis, rotating about an axis of rotation transverse to the longitudinal axis, and so on. Additionally, in some embodiments, a baffle may be used in conjunction with the tubular jet elements to further distribute the fluid and / or prevent the fluid from impacting the tub wall. In some embodiments, the baffle may be integrated into a support, while in other embodiments, the baffle may be mounted to the wall of the washing tub. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the baffle may also be movable, for example, to redirect the fluid between multiple directions. Moreover, while in some embodiments the tubular jet elements may be used only for jetting washing fluid, in other embodiments, the tubular jet elements may be used to jet pressurized air onto the appliance during the drying operation of the wash cycle, for example, to blow away water accumulated on cups and plates after rinsing. In some cases, different tubular jet elements can be used to jet the washing fluid and pressurized air, while in other cases, the same tubular jet element can be used to jet the washing liquid and pressurized air alternately or simultaneously.

[0063] Tubular spray element drinkware washing system

[0064] In some embodiments of the invention, the tubular jet element beverage washing system can be supported to facilitate the washing of various types of beverages, including, for example, bottles (including baby bottles), cups, glasses, mugs, stemmed glasses, jugs, containers, and other appliances that typically include one or more internal areas that are challenging for conventional dishwashers. In particular, bottles and similar beverages may have relatively small openings or openings that can limit the ability to impact their inner walls with jets that spray washing fluid in a more dispersed and unfocused manner, which is generally more suitable for general washing purposes.

[0065] Conversely, embodiments of the invention may use one or more beverage sprayers supported on a stand and physically spaced apart from the tubular spray element by a gap. However, these one or more beverage sprayers are capable of receiving fluid ejected by the tubular spray element and then redirecting the fluid to a bottle or other beverage item located above the sprayer. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the beverage sprayer may include one or more outlets in fluid communication with a fluid collector facing the tubular spray element and configured to receive fluid ejected from the tubular spray element when the tubular spray element is rotated to a predetermined position. The beverage sprayer is constructed, for example, through one or more internal channels to route the received fluid through one or more outlets to wash the interior of a beverage item located above the sprayer.

[0066] Go to Figures 10 to 13 One embodiment of the beverage ejector according to the invention is illustrated by a dishwasher 200, which includes a support 202 (e.g., an upper, middle, or lower support) formed of coated metal wire 204 and a plurality of tubular ejection elements 206 disposed below the support 202 for ejecting fluid onto utensils disposed in the support during a washing operation. Each tubular ejection element 206 includes a plurality of orifices 208, which, in the illustrated embodiment, are circumferentially aligned with each other such that when the tubular ejection element is positioned in a particular rotational position, all orifices of the tubular ejection element eject fluid in the same generally direction. However, it should be understood that other orifice arrangements may be used in other embodiments as described above, and therefore the invention is not limited to this particular tubular ejection element design. Each tubular ejection element 206 may be supported by the support 202, or alternatively, in some embodiments may be wall-mounted.

[0067] The dishwasher 200 also includes a plurality of beverage sprayers 210, which are supported by a bracket 202 for supporting and washing various types of beverage items, such as bottles 212. It should be understood that the beverage sprayers 210 can be configured to wash various types of beverages, including bottles, baby bottles, cups, glasses, water bottles, mugs, travel mugs, flat-bottomed glasses, water jugs, etc. Furthermore, while the beverage sprayers may be designed specifically for beverages in some embodiments, other types of appliances may be positioned adjacent to the sprayers to utilize the spraying action performed by such sprayers, including deep pots, pans, bowls, plates, etc.

[0068] In this embodiment, each beverage dispenser 210 is supported by a bracket 202; however, in other embodiments, such dispensers may be positioned elsewhere in the washing tub. Furthermore, regardless of whether they are supported by a bracket, each beverage dispenser 210 is physically spaced from the tubular dispenser element, such that a gap exists between the beverage dispenser 210 and the tubular dispenser element.

[0069] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 13 Each beverage dispenser 210 in the illustrated embodiments may be generally funnel-shaped and may include a fluid collector 214, an outlet 216, and an internal channel 218. The fluid collector 214 is located adjacent to and facing the end of the tubular spray element, and the outlet 216 is located at its opposite end, facing away from the tubular spray element and towards the interior of the beverage item. The internal channel 218 places the outlet 216 in fluid communication with the fluid collector 214, such that fluid received by the fluid collector 214 from the tubular spray element is guided along a path through the internal channel 218 and out of the outlet 216 to wash the interior of the beverage item placed above the dispenser. In some embodiments, each beverage dispenser 210 may also include one or more beverage supports 220, for example, such as... Figure 13 The diagram shows multiple inclined fins that can be used to support the body of a drinking item located above the drink dispenser. Figures 10 to 13 In some embodiments, for example, the drinking vessel support may be configured to engage the mouth or spout of the drinking vessel article. It should also be understood that the drinking vessel support may, desirably, not completely seal the mouth or opening of the drinking vessel article, allowing any fluid sprayed into the drinking vessel article to drain from the article.

[0070] The beverage dispenser according to the invention can be installed in a variety of different ways in different embodiments, for example, by snap-fit ​​couplings, by using fasteners, by integral molding into a support structure (e.g., where the bracket is formed of plastic rather than coated lines), or by other suitable methods. Figure 14 Another example design of a beverage dispenser 240 is shown, which is snapped onto the bracket 242 using one or more snap-fit ​​recesses 244 of the coating line 246 of the engagement bracket 242 to secure the beverage dispenser 240 to the bracket 242. Other ways of securing the beverage dispenser to a bracket or other structure in the washing tub of a dishwasher will be apparent to those skilled in the art who will benefit from the present invention.

[0071] Similar to the beverage ejector 210, the beverage ejector 240 includes a downward-facing fluid collector 248 in fluid communication with an outlet 250 via an internal channel 252, and a beverage support 254, such as a mouthpiece or spout 256 for supporting the beverage item 258. Figure 14 As shown, the fluid collector 248 is generally funnel-shaped and forms a substantially horizontal opening that opens toward the tubular jet element 260. When in... Figure 14 In the indicated rotational position, one or more orifices 262 of the tubular jet element 260 can jet fluid toward the beverage dispenser 240, such that the jetted fluid is collected by the fluid collector 248 and conveyed through the internal channel 252 to the outlet 250 for spraying the interior of the beverage item 258. In this embodiment, the beverage dispenser 240 and the tubular jet element 260 are positioned relative to each other such that the optimal rotational position of the tubular jet element 260 for directing fluid to the beverage dispenser 240 is approximately vertical or at the 12 o'clock position. However, as will be combined below... Figure 16 In more detail, other relative positions may be used in other embodiments, such as a position where the fluid is sprayed at an acute angle relative to a vertical position.

[0072] The drinking spout according to the invention can utilize many different features in other embodiments. For example, Figure 15 A beverage dispenser 270 is shown, comprising a fluid collector 272, a snap-fit ​​coupling 274, and a plurality of outlets 276, 278, and 280 for dispensing jet streams in different directions. Outlets 276 are referred to herein as side outlets because they can spray outward toward the inner side surface of a beverage item. Outlets 276 are also referred to herein as fixed outlets because they are not movable during operation. However, outlets 278 and 280 are movable outlets located on a movable body (e.g., a rotatable body). Outlet 278 is a side movable outlet that sprays outward toward the inner side surface of a beverage item, while outlet 280 is a top movable outlet that sprays upward toward the inner bottom surface of a beverage item. In other embodiments, different numbers and / or configurations of outlets may be used, and various nozzle designs, such as fluid nozzles, fan nozzles, flow nozzles, etc., may be used in different embodiments to provide different spray patterns.

[0073] The beverage dispenser 270 is also shown to include one or more beverage holders 282, which in some embodiments may be movable. For example, it is desirable to include movable beverage holders to accommodate beverage items of different types and / or widths. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser may be designed for a specific type of beverage (e.g., a baby bottle) and may include suitable supports, clips, etc., to properly secure the beverage during washing cycles. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 270 may be configured to support the beverage in a non-vertical direction, for example, when the beverage item is located to the side of the beverage dispenser 270 or is placed at an angle.

[0074] Return to Figures 10 to 12 It should be understood that, in some embodiments, the tubular jet element can be used to supply fluid to a plurality of drinking spouts. In some embodiments, for example, a plurality of drinking spouts may be arranged along a longitudinal axis generally parallel to the tubular jet element, and the tubular jet element may have nozzles or orifices positioned along the tubular jet element at positions corresponding to the drinking spouts to direct fluid toward a fluid collector of each of the drinking spouts when the tubular jet element is in a particular rotational position.

[0075] In addition, such as Figure 16 As shown, in some embodiments, different drinking spouts can be located at different positions relative to a specific tubular jet element, such that the different drinking spouts can be supplied with fluid at different rotational positions of the tubular jet element. Specifically, Figure 16 A dishwasher 300 is shown, which includes a bracket 302 with a line 304, a tubular jet element 306 including a plurality of orifices 308, and a set of three beverage dispensers 310, 312, and 314. The beverage dispenser 310 is similar to... Figures 10 to 13 The beverage ejector 210 is positioned relative to the tubular ejector element 306 to receive fluid ejected from the tubular ejector element when the tubular ejector element is in a generally vertical rotational position. However, beverage ejectors 312 and 314 are laterally offset on either side of the beverage ejector 310 and the tubular ejector element 306, such that, for example, beverage ejector 312 is configured to receive fluid ejected from the tubular ejector element when the tubular ejector element is rotated counterclockwise to... Figure 16 The fluid is received from the tubular jet element at an angle or rotational position marked A1, which forms an acute angle relative to the approximately vertical rotational position of the beverage jet 310. Similarly, the beverage jet 314 is configured to receive fluid from the tubular jet element when the tubular jet element is rotated clockwise to... Figure 16 When the angle or rotational position marked A2 is reached, fluid is received from the tubular jet element. This angle or rotational position is also an acute angle relative to the approximately vertical rotational position of the beverage jet 310.

[0076] While in some embodiments, the beverage dispensers 310, 312, and 314 may be constructed in exactly the same manner, in other embodiments, the beverage dispensers may be constructed in different ways, for example, to support other types of beverages, or alternatively, as shown in the corresponding fluid collectors 316, 318, and 320, to optimize fluid collection based on the relative positioning of the beverage dispenser relative to the tubular jet element, such that each fluid collector is better oriented towards and open toward the tubular jet element to optimize fluid collection. It will also be understood that in some embodiments, multiple beverage dispensers may be longitudinally spaced along the tubular jet element, or as shown in... Figure 16 The lateral spacing shown allows the beverage dispensers to be arranged in a two-dimensional array in some embodiments. Other variations will be understood by those skilled in the art who will benefit from this disclosure.

[0077] In operation, the controller of a dishwasher incorporating the beverage ejector according to the invention can be used to control the tubular ejector element driver, thereby guiding the tubular ejector element to one or more specific rotational positions in a discontinuous manner to direct fluid from the fluid supply section toward one or more beverage ejectors at desired points within the washing cycle. Furthermore, due to the flexibility provided by the tubular ejector element design, the tubular ejector element can spray fluid onto other appliances in the washing tub at other points within the washing cycle, allowing the same tubular ejector element to be used for both beverage ejection and non-beverage ejection operations at different points within the washing cycle. Additionally, in some embodiments, a single tubular ejector element can be used to spray fluid onto appliances disposed in the same bracket (but in a different location from the beverage ejector) and / or in a different bracket from the beverage ejector.

[0078] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the controller can perform the vessel spraying operation at a different stage of the washing cycle than the non-vessel spraying operation, or it can perform the vessel spraying operation during the non-vessel spraying operation. For example, in some embodiments, the vessel spraying operation can be performed simply by temporarily pausing the rotation of the tubular spraying element during the washing or rinsing cycle and while the tubular spraying element is directing fluid to the vessel sprayer. For example, it is desirable to wash or rinse the vessel by continuously rotating the tubular spraying element 360 degrees for a period of time, or to allow the tubular spraying element to oscillate back and forth within a range of rotational positions for a period of time. In the case where vessel spraying is desired, when the appropriate rotational position is reached, the controller can simply pause the tubular spraying element for a few seconds and then return to the same rotational or oscillating motion. Additionally, it should be understood that vessel spraying may be supported only in some washing programs, or in some embodiments it may be an option that can be selected by the user.

[0079] Furthermore, as mentioned above, in some dishwasher designs, in addition to or in place of washing fluid, the tubular jet element can jet air. Therefore, in some embodiments, airflow can be supplied to the beverage jetting device via the tubular jet element, for example, to promote the drying of the inside of the beverage items.

[0080] Other modifications may be made to the illustrated embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is subject to the following appended claims.

Claims

1. A dishwasher, comprising: Washing tub; A tubular jet element is disposed in the washing tub and is rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the tubular jet element. The tubular jet element includes one or more orifices extending through the outer surface of the tubular jet element and is in fluid communication with a fluid supply unit to guide fluid from the fluid supply unit into the washing tub through the one or more orifices. A tubular jet element driver is coupled to the tubular jet element and configured to rotate the tubular jet element between a plurality of rotational positions about the longitudinal axis of the tubular jet element. as well as A drinking vessel sprayer, located within the washing tub and physically spaced apart from the tubular spray element, the drinking vessel sprayer including one or more outlets in fluid communication with a fluid collector facing the tubular spray element, the fluid collector being configured to receive fluid from the tubular spray element when the tubular spray element rotates to a predetermined rotational position, and to discharge the received washing fluid along a path from the one or more outlets to wash the interior of drinking vessels located above the drinking vessel sprayer.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising a controller connected to the tubular jet element driver, wherein, The controller is configured to control the tubular jet element driver to guide the tubular jet element to the predetermined rotational position in a discontinuous manner, so as to guide fluid from the fluid supply section toward the fluid collector.

3. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein, The controller is also configured to control the tubular jet element driver to guide the tubular jet element to different rotational positions in a discontinuous manner to direct fluid from the fluid supply toward one or more utensils in the washing tub, excluding the drinking utensils.

4. The dishwasher according to claim 3, wherein, The beverage dispenser is supported in a bracket, and wherein the one or more devices are located in the bracket at a different position from the beverage item.

5. The dishwasher according to claim 3, wherein, The beverage dispenser is supported in a first bracket, and the one or more appliances are located in a second bracket.

6. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein, The controller is configured to: control the tubular jet element driver to rotate or oscillate the tubular jet element during a washing cycle; and when the tubular jet element is in the predetermined rotation position, temporarily pause the tubular jet element driver during the rotation or oscillation of the tubular jet element to guide fluid from the fluid supply section toward the fluid collector.

7. The dishwasher of claim 1 further includes a support bracket supported within the washing tub and movable between a loading position and a washing position, wherein... The beverage dispenser is supported by the bracket.

8. The dishwasher according to claim 7, wherein, The support is formed of coated metal wire, and the beverage dispenser is snapped onto one or more of the coated metal wire.

9. The dishwasher according to claim 7, wherein, The beverage ejector is a first beverage ejector located at a first position on the support, wherein the dishwasher also includes one or more additional beverage ejectors located at multiple additional positions on the support, and wherein the one or more additional positions are arranged such that a corresponding fluid collector at the one or more additional positions is configured to receive fluid from the tubular ejector when the tubular ejector is rotated to the predetermined rotation position.

10. The dishwasher according to claim 9, wherein, The first position and the one or more additional positions are arranged along an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tubular jet element, and wherein the tubular jet element includes a plurality of orifices positioned along the tubular jet element to direct fluid toward the fluid collector of each of the first drinking spout and the one or more additional drinking spouts.

11. The dishwasher according to claim 7, wherein, The predetermined rotation position is a first predetermined rotation position, and the beverage ejector is a first beverage ejector disposed at a first position on the bracket, wherein the dishwasher further includes a second beverage ejector disposed at a second position on the bracket, and wherein the second position is arranged such that the fluid collector of the second beverage ejector is configured to receive fluid from the tubular ejector when the tubular ejector rotates to the second rotation position.

12. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The rotational position is approximately vertical, and the fluid collector has a generally horizontal opening.

13. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The rotational position forms an acute angle with respect to the vertical direction, and the fluid collector has an opening that faces the tubular jet element.

14. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more outlets include a top outlet that directs fluid toward the bottom inner surface of the drinking vessel article.

15. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more outlets include side outlets that direct fluid toward the inner side surface of the drinking vessel article.

16. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more outlets include a movable outlet, which is disposed on the movable body.

17. The dishwasher according to claim 16, wherein, The movable body includes a rotatable body.

18. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The beverage dispenser includes multiple beverage supports configured to support the main body of the beverage item positioned above the beverage dispenser.

19. The dishwasher according to claim 18, wherein, The beverage dispenser is funnel-shaped, and the plurality of beverage supports include inclined fins that support the opening of the beverage item.

20. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, The tubular jet element is in fluid communication with the air supply unit to guide air from the air supply unit into the washing tub through the one or more orifices to dry the interior of the drinking utensils.

Images