dishwasher

Abstract

A dishwasher according to an embodiment includes a tub, a basket arrangeable within the tub to receive dishware, a spraying device including a spray rotor rotatable by spraying washing water to wash the dishware, a duct including a duct body configured to allow washing water to flow, a duct bearing configured to rotatably support the spray rotor and supply washing water from the duct body to the spray rotor, and a duct holder configured to rotatably support the spray rotor together with the duct bearing, wherein the spray rotor includes a nozzle body rotatably coupleable to the duct bearing and configured to be supplied with washing water from the duct bearing, and a base body supported by the duct holder and coupleable to the nozzle body enabled to receive the washing water flowing into the nozzle body.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The disclosure relates to a dishwasher including a spraying device.[Background Art]

[0002] A dishwasher is an appliance that automatically washes food residues and the like from dishes using detergent and washing water.

[0003] The dishwasher may include a main body, a tub arranged inside the main body, a basket arranged inside the tub to store dishes, a spray unit arranged to spray washing water onto the basket, and a duct for guiding the washing water to the spray unit.

[0004] The spray unit may include a bearing and a spray arm that rotates around the bearing. A propulsion nozzle that generates a propulsion force while spraying washing water may be formed on the spray arm. The propulsion nozzle needs to be secured at a sufficient distance from the bearing to generate a moment. That is, the spray arm may be formed to have a sufficient length.

[0005] The dishwasher can effectively wash small dishes by miniaturizing the spray unit. Friction with the bearing can be reduced so that the miniaturized spray unit generates a sufficient moment to rotate.[Disclosure][Technical Problem]

[0006] An embodiment of the present disclosure can provide a dishwasher having improved washing performance.

[0007] An embodiment of the present disclosure can provide a dishwasher including a miniaturized spray unit.

[0008] An embodiment of the present disclosure can provide a dishwasher capable of reducing friction of a bearing.

[0009] Technical tasks to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.[Technical Solution]

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a dishwasher may include a tub, a basket in the tub and configured to receive dishware, a sprayer, and a duct. The sprayer may include a spray rotor, wherein the spray rotor may include a nozzle body, and a base body coupled to the nozzle body so that the base body and the nozzle body together form a space. The duct may include a duct body in which washing water is flowable. The duct may further include a duct bearing to which the nozzle body is rotatably coupled, wherein the duct bearing is configured to supply washing water flowing in the duct body from the duct body to the space formed by the base body and the nozzle body. The duct may further include a duct holder that supports the base body so that the duct holder, together with the duct bearing, rotatably supports the spray rotor, and so that the washing water supplied to the space formed by the base body and the nozzle body is sprayed by the spray rotor toward the basket to wash dishware received in the basket.

[0011] The duct holder may include a support bearing facing the duct bearing and having a section whose cross-sectional area decreases as the support bearing approaches the base body.

[0012] The duct holder may further include an extension portion extending along a protruding direction of the duct bearing from the duct body, and a holder portion bent from the extension portion. The support bearing may be at an end of the holder portion.

[0013] The spray rotor may include a nozzle to spray the washing water in the space formed by the base body and the nozzle body toward the basket to wash dishware received in the basket.

[0014] The nozzle may include a propulsion nozzle on an outer circumferential surface of the spray rotor.

[0015] The nozzle may further include an upper nozzle formed in the nozzle body and configured to spray washing water in a direction different from a direction in which washing water is sprayed by the propulsion nozzle.

[0016] The nozzle body may include a nozzle portion having a flow path with a cross-sectional area of a size corresponding to a cross-sectional area of a flow path of the duct bearing so as to form a distribution flow path together with the duct bearing.

[0017] The duct body may include a curved portion to prevent a decrease in a flow rate of the washing water flowing from the duct body to a flow path of the duct bearing.

[0018] The nozzle portion may be configured so that the cross-sectional area of the flow path of the nozzle portion increases as the nozzle portion is further away from the duct bearing.

[0019] The nozzle portion may include a sealing portion surrounding the duct bearing to prevent washing water from flowing out between the nozzle portion and the duct bearing.

[0020] The duct holder may include an elastic material so as to be elastically deformable while the nozzle body is being coupled to the duct bearing and the base body is being positioned to be supported by the duct holder.

[0021] The basket may include a bottom portion configured to support the dishware. The duct body may be on an upper side of the bottom portion.

[0022] The bottom portion may include an inclined support portion configured to support the dishware so as to be inclined downwardly, and a duct support portion connected to the inclined support portion and having the duct body seated thereon.

[0023] The spray rotor may be on a lower side of the duct body to spray washing water onto dishware supported on the inclined support portion.

[0024] The dishwasher may include a plurality of the duct bearings and a plurality of the duct holders arranged at predetermined intervals along a direction along which the duct body longitudinally extends. The dishwasher may include a plurality of the spray rotors. The duct holders of the plurality of duct holders, together with the duct bearings of the plurality of duct bearings, may support spray rotors of the plurality of the spray rotors, respectively.

[0025] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a dishwasher may include a basket including a bottom portion to support dishware, a duct configured to allow washing water to flow, the duct including a duct body positioned above the bottom portion, a duct bearing protruding from the duct body, and a duct holder including a support bearing facing the duct bearing, and a spray rotor configured to receive washing water from the duct bearing and to spray the washing water to wash the dishware, the spray rotor rotatably coupled between the duct bearing and the support bearing.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a dishwasher may include a tub, a basket in the tub and including a bottom portion for supporting dishware, a duct in which washing water flows and including a duct body positioned above the bottom portion, a duct bearing protruding from the duct body, and a duct holder including a support bearing facing the duct bearing, and a spray rotor configured to receive washing water from the duct bearing to spray the washing water to wash the dishware, the spray rotor rotatably coupled between the duct bearing and the support bearing, wherein the spray rotor includes a nozzle body rotatably coupleable to the duct bearing and configured to receive washing water from the duct bearing, and a base body rotatably supported by the support bearing.[Description of Drawings]

[0027] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a dishwasher according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cross-section of the dishwasher of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a front view illustrating some configurations of the dishwasher according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating some configurations of the dishwasher according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a basket, duct, and spray rotor shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating the duct and the spray rotor, according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the duct and the spray rotor. FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the duct and the spray rotor of FIG. 7 from a different angle. FIG. 9 is an exploded view illustrating the spray rotor according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a side view illustrating a coupled structure of the duct and the spray rotor of FIG. 6. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the duct and a spraying device of FIG. 6 cut along an extension direction of the duct. FIG. 12 is a top view of the spray rotor illustrating the action of washing water sprayed from the spray rotor. [Modes of the Invention]

[0028] Various embodiments of the present document and terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the corresponding embodiments.

[0029] In addition, the same reference numerals or signs shown in the drawings of the disclosure indicate elements or components performing substantially the same function.

[0030] Also, the terms used herein are used to describe the embodiments and are not intended to limit and / or restrict the disclosure. The singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this disclosure, the terms "including", "having", and the like are used to specify features, figures, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more of the features, figures, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0031] It will be understood that, although the terms "first", "second", "primary", "secondary", etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, but elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, without departing from the scope of the disclosure, a first element may be termed as a second element, and a second element may be termed as a first element. The term of "and / or" includes a plurality of combinations of relevant items or any one item among a plurality of relevant items.

[0032] Meanwhile, as used in the disclosure, the terms "vertical direction", "lower", and "front-rear direction" the like are defined with reference to the drawings, and are not intended to limit the shape and position of any element.

[0033] Hereinafter, various embodiments according to the disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a dishwasher according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cross-section of the dishwasher of FIG. 1.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a dishwasher 1 may include a main body 10. The main body 10 may form an exterior of the dishwasher 1.

[0036] The dishwasher 1 may include a tub 12 arranged in an inside of the main body 10. The tub 12 may form a washing chamber 10a. The tub 12 may be arranged in an approximately box shape. One side of the tub 12 may be open. In other words, the tub 12 may have an opening 12a. In an example, a front side of the tub 12 may be open.

[0037] The dishwasher 1 may include a door 11. The door 11 may be configured to open or close the tub 12. The door 11 may be arranged to open or close the opening 12a of the tub 12. The door 11 may be arranged to open or close the washing chamber 10a. The door 11 may be installed on the main body 10 to open or close the tub 12. The door 11 may be rotatably mounted on the main body 10. The door 11 may be detachably mounted to the main body 10.

[0038] The dishwasher 1 may include a storage container 50. The storage container 50 may be arranged in the inside of the tub 12. The storage container 50 may accommodate dishware. The storage container 50 may store dishes. The storage container 50 may be load dishware. The storage container 50 may hold dishes.

[0039] The storage container 50 may include at least one basket for storing dishware, such as tableware, utensils, crockery or the like. The storage container 50 may include at least one rack assembly for storing dishware. The basket and the rack assembly may be interchangeable. It should be understood that the basket described below may be referred to as a rack assembly.

[0040] For example, the storage container 50 may include a plurality of baskets 51, 52 and 53. The plurality of baskets 51, 52 and 53 may be configured to store a variety of dishware. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the storage container 50 may include only some of the plurality of baskets 51, 52 and 53. For example, the storage container 50 may further include additional baskets other than the plurality of baskets 51, 52 and 53. For example, the storage container 50 may include a single basket.

[0041] The storage container 50 may include the intermediate basket 52 positioned at the middle in a height direction of the dishwasher 1. The intermediate basket 52 may be configured to be moved out of the tub 12 or into the tub 12. For example, the intermediate basket 52 may be configured to be supported on an intermediate guide rack (not shown). For example, the intermediate guide rack (not shown) may be installed on a side 12c of the tub 12 so as to be slidable toward the opening 12a of the tub 12.

[0042] The storage container 50 may include the lower basket 51 positioned at a lower portion in the height direction of the dishwasher 1. The lower basket 51 may be configured to be moved out of the tub 12 or into the tub 12. For example, the lower basket 51 may be configured to be supported on a lower guide rack 13a. For example, the lower guide rack 13a may be installed on the side 12c of the tub 12 so as to be slidable toward the opening 12a of the tub 12.

[0043] The plurality of baskets 51 and 52 may store relatively large dishware. However, the types of dishware stored in the plurality of baskets 51 and 52 are not limited to relatively large dishware. In other words, plurality of baskets 51 and 52 may store relatively small dishware as well as relatively large dishware.

[0044] The storage container 50 may include the upper basket 53 positioned at the upper portion in the height direction of the dishwasher 1. The upper basket 53 may be formed in the shape of a rack assembly, such that relatively small volume dishware may be stored therein. For example, the upper basket 53 may store utensils or cutlery, such as ladles, knives, flippers, and the like. For example, the upper basket 53 may store smaller sized tableware, such as cups. However, this is only an example, and the types of dishware stored in the upper basket 53 are not limited to the above examples.

[0045] The upper basket 53 may be configured to be moved out of the tub 12 or into the tub 12. For example, the upper basket 53 may be slidably movable by an upper guide rack 13c. For example, the upper basket 53 may be configured to be supported by the upper guide rack 13c. For example, the upper guide rack 13c may be installed on the side 12c of the tub 12.

[0046] The dishwasher 1 may include the washing chamber 10a, which is a space formed within the tub 12. The washing chamber 10a may be defined as an inner space of the tub 12. The washing chamber 10a may refer to a space in which dishware placed in the storage container 50 may be washed and dried by washing water.

[0047] The dishwasher 1 may include a spraying device (e.g., sprayer) 40 configured to spray washing water. The spraying device 40 may spray washing water into the washing chamber 10a. The spraying device 40 may spray washing water toward dishware placed in the storage container 50. The spraying device 40 may receive washing water from a sump 70, which will be described later.

[0048] The spraying device 40 may include at least one spray arm. The spraying device 40 may include a plurality of spray units 41, 42 and 43.

[0049] For example, the spraying device 40 may include the first spray unit 41 arranged at a lower portion of the lower basket 51 in the height direction of the dishwasher 1. For example, the spraying device 40 may include the second spray unit 42 arranged at a lower portion of the intermediate basket 52 in the height direction of the dishwasher 1. For example, the spraying device 40 may include the third spray unit 43 arranged at an upper portion of the upper basket 53 in the height direction of the dishwasher 1. However, the number of spray units is not limited to the above examples. The spraying device 40 may include two or fewer spray units. The spraying device 40 may include four or more spray units.

[0050] The spray units 41, 42 and 43 may include a spray arm. The operation of the spray arm will be briefly described using the second spray unit 42 as an example. The description of the second spray unit 42 may be applicable to the first spray unit 41 and / or the third spray unit 43.

[0051] The second spray unit 42 may include the spray arm. The spray arm may be configured to be rotatable relative to a duct 100. The spray arm may spray washing water while rotating relative to the duct 100.

[0052] The spray arm may have a shape extending in one direction. The spray arm may extend in a direction perpendicular to an axis of rotation. Alternatively, the spray arm may extend along a diameter direction of a circle drawn by the rotation of the spray arm.

[0053] The spray arm may form a channel through which washing water flows. The second spray unit 42 may include a spray hole for spraying washing water. The spray hole may be formed in the spray arm. For example, the spray holes may be provided in a plurality. For example, the plurality of spray holes may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along an extension direction of the spray arm.

[0054] The spraying device 40 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a spray rotor 200.

[0055] The spray rotor 200 may rotate while spraying washing water. In other words, the spray rotor 200 may rotate by spraying the washing water. The spray rotor 200 may be rotatably coupled to the duct 100 to be described later.

[0056] The dishwasher 1 may include the sump 70. The sump 70 may be configured to receive washing water. The sump 70 may collect washing water from the washing chamber 10a. For example, a lower surface 12b of the tub 12 may be configured to be inclined downwardly toward the sump 70 to facilitate water collection in the sump 70. Washing water from the washing chamber 10a may flow down the slope of the lower surface 12b of the tub 12 and smoothly flow into the sump 70. In addition, the sump 70 may be configured to provide the collected washing water to the spraying device 40.

[0057] The dishwasher 1 may include a circulation pump 71 configured to pump washing water stored in the sump 70. The circulation pump 71 may be provided as a configuration of the sump 70. For example, the circulation pump 71 may be arranged in a machine chamber 10b. The washing water pumped by the circulation pump 71 may flow to the spraying device 40.

[0058] The dishwasher 1 may include a drain pump 72 for draining washing water and / or foreign substances (e.g., food waste, etc.) remaining in the sump 70. The drain pump 72 may be provided as a configuration of the sump 70. For example, the drain pump 72 may be arranged in the machine chamber 10b.

[0059] The dishwasher 1 may include the machine chamber 10b which is a space arranged below the tub 12. The machine chamber 10b may be a place where a configuration for circulating washing water is arranged. The dishwasher 1 may include a base frame 16 forming the machine chamber 10b.

[0060] For example, at least a portion of the sump 70 may be arranged in the machine chamber 10b. The majority of the sump 70 may be arranged in the machine chamber 10b. In other words, the area of the sump 70 located in the washing chamber 10a may be smaller than the area of the sump 70 located in the machine chamber 10b. By reducing the area of the sump 70 occupying the washing chamber 10a, the area of the washing chamber 10a may be secured. As a result, the capacity of the washing chamber 10a may be increased, thereby improving the storage capacity of the dishware.

[0061] The dishwasher 1 may include a filter assembly 60. The filter assembly 60 may be configured to filter foreign substances contained in the washing water entering the sump 70. The washing water filtered through the filter assembly 60 may be pumped by the circulation pump 71 and supplied to the spraying device 40. The filter assembly 60 may be detachably mounted to the sump 70. For example, the filter assembly 60 may include at least one of a fine filter, a coarse filter, or a micro filter.

[0062] The dishwasher 1 may include an inlet duct 14 configured to allow washing water to flow in from the sump 70. In addition, the dishwasher 1 may include the duct 100 for guiding the washing water introduced through the inlet duct 14 to the spray rotor 200.

[0063] The inlet duct 14 and the duct 100 may be arranged in the tub 12. The duct assembly may be arranged in the washing chamber 10a.

[0064] The inlet duct 14 may be arranged between the sump 70 and the duct 100. For example, the duct 100 may be arranged between the inlet duct 14 and the spraying device 40. For example, the inlet duct 14 and the duct 100 may be provided as a duct assembly.

[0065] However, the present disclosure is not limited to the example described above and the inlet duct 14 and the duct 100 may be provided as an integral configuration. In this case, the integral duct may directly guide the washing water from the sump 70 to the spraying device 40.

[0066] FIG. 3 is a front view showing a partial configuration of the dishwasher according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a partial configuration of the dishwasher according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is an exploded view showing the basket, the duct, and the spray rotor shown in FIG. 4.

[0067] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, the dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment may include the duct 100 arranged to supply washing water to the spray rotor 200.

[0068] The duct 100 may extend along one direction. The duct 100 may be arranged along a front-to-back direction.

[0069] The duct 100 may be arranged on an upper side of the basket 53. The duct 100 may be seated on the upper side of the basket 53. The duct 100 may be configured to supply washing water for washing dishware held by the basket 53.

[0070] The basket 53 may include a bottom portion 531 configured to support dishware. The bottom portion 531 may form a base of the basket 53. For example, the bottom portion 531 may be formed by wires 53a and 53b, which will be described later. The bottom portion 531 may be referred to as a bottom frame.

[0071] The first wire 53a and the second wire 53b may be arranged orthogonally to each other. For example, as shown, the first wire 53a may extend along a left-to-right direction, and the second wire 53b may extend along the front-to-back direction. The first wire 53a and the second wire 53b may be spaced apart and intersect each other.

[0072] The wires 53a and 53b may be provided in a plurality, and the plurality of wires 53a and 53b may be formed into the integral basket 53 by welding, deep drawing, or the like. In other words, a plurality of openings (not shown) may be formed between the first wires 53a and the second wires 53b.

[0073] The basket 53 may include a side portion 532. The side portion 532 may be arranged to surround the bottom portion 531. The side portion 532 may have a shape extending upwardly from an edge of the bottom portion 531. For example, the side portion 532 may be formed into a frame shape by the wires 53a and 53b, which will be described later. The side portion 532 may be referred to as a side frame.

[0074] The bottom portion 531 may include a horizontal support portion 5311 extending horizontally. The horizontal support portion 5311 may form at least a portion of the bottom portion 531. The horizontal support portion 5311 may support the dishware horizontally.

[0075] The bottom portion 531 may include inclined support portions 5312a and 5312b arranged to support the dishware in an inclined manner. The inclined support portions 5312a and 5312b may extend from the horizontal support portion 5311. The inclined support portions 5312a and 5312b may be formed to be inclined downwardly. In other words, the dishware supported by the inclined support portions 5312a and 5312b may be placed with an open side thereof facing downward.

[0076] The inclined support portions 5312a and 5312b may include the first inclined support portion 5312a and the second inclined support portion 5312b that are arranged to have different inclinations and / or lengths.

[0077] The first inclined support portion 5312a and the second inclined support portion 5312b may be configured to have different inclinations. As shown, the first inclined support portion 5312a may have a smaller inclination than the second inclined support portion 5312b. In other words, the first inclined support portion 5312a may have a greater length than the second inclined support portion 5312b. As a result, dishware with a taller height may be placed on the first inclined support portion 5312a, and dishware with a shorter height may be placed on the second inclined support portion 5312b.

[0078] The first inclined support portion 5312a and the second inclined support portion 5312b may support dishware of a certain height. For example, the first inclined support portion 5312a and the second inclined support portion 5312b may support a cup or the like. However, the dishware that may be placed on the first inclined support portion 5312a and the second inclined support portion 5312b is not limited thereto, and any other type of dishware may be placed thereon.

[0079] The bottom portion 531 may include a duct support portion 5313 connected to the inclined support portions 5312a and 5312b. The duct support portion 5313 may be configured to seat a duct body 110 thereon.

[0080] The duct support portion 5313 may be arranged along one direction to support the duct body 110 extending in one direction. For example, the duct support portion 5313 may be arranged along the front-to-back direction.

[0081] The duct support portion 5313 may be arranged at predetermined intervals. The bottom portion 531 may include a rotor opening 533a arranged between the duct support portions 5313 to allow the spray rotor 200 to pass through. In other words, the duct 100 may be positioned on the upper side of the duct support portion 5313, and the spray rotor 200 may be positioned on a lower side of the duct support portion 5313.

[0082] A space may be formed between the first inclined support portion 5312a and the second inclined support portion 5312b on the lower side of the duct support portion 5313. The spray rotor 200 may be positioned between the first inclined support portion 5312a and the second inclined support portion 5312b.

[0083] The open side of the dishware supported on the inclined support portions 5312a and 5312b may be supported toward the spray rotor 200. The spray rotor 200 may spray washing water into an interior of the dishware through the open side of the dishware.

[0084] The duct 100 may be positioned on the upper side of the bottom portion 531. In other words, the duct 100 may be positioned above the horizontal support portion 5311, the inclined support portions 5312a and 5312b, and the duct support portion 5313 forming the bottom portion 531. In another expression, the duct support portion 5313 configured to allow the duct 100 to be seated may be positioned above the horizontal bottom portion 5311. The duct support portion 5313 may be positioned at least flush with the horizontal bottom portion 5311.

[0085] The duct 100 positioned above the bottom portion 531 may allow the spray rotor 200 to be positioned between the inclined support portions 5312a and 5312b. In other words, since the spray rotor 200 may be positioned to face the open side of the dishware, the interior of the dishware may be uniformly washed.

[0086] In addition, the spray rotor 200 may drain residual water inside the duct 100. Since the duct 100 is extended for relatively long distance along one direction, the washing water may remain inside the duct 100 without flowing. In particular, when no washing water is supplied after the operation of the dishwasher 1 is completed, the washing water may not flow, and thus residual water may be generated inside the duct 100. Since the spray rotor 200 is positioned below the duct 100, the residual water inside the duct 100 may be drained to the spray rotor 200.

[0087] In addition, since the duct 100 is positioned on the upper side of the bottom portion 531, the size of the spray rotor 200 positioned on the lower side of the duct 100 may be increased. By increasing the size of the spray rotor 200, the rotational force generated by a propulsion nozzle 200a, which will be described later, may be increased, allowing the rotation of the spray rotor 200 to be more smoothly. In addition, the rotation of the spray rotor 200 may be prevented from stopping.

[0088] Furthermore, since the duct 100 is positioned on the upper side of the bottom portion 531, the dishware supported by the inclined support portions 5312a and 5312b may also be supported by the duct 100. More particularly, the dishware may be supported by the inclined support portions 5312a and 5312b and the duct body 110.

[0089] In addition, since the duct 100 is positioned on the upper side of the bottom portion 531, the length of the spray rotor 200 in an up-and-down direction may be secured. More particularly, the length of a nozzle portion 211 of the spray rotor 200, which will be described later, may be secured. By securing the length of the nozzle portion 211, an inside of the nozzle portion 211 may be provided with a venturi tube structure whose diameter gradually increases. In other words, the flow rate of the washing water entering the nozzle portion 211 may be secured.

[0090] The duct 100 may be configured to provide washing water to the spray rotor 200. The spray rotor 200 may be positioned on the lower side of the duct 100. The washing water flowing inside the duct 100 may flow to the spray rotor 200 by gravity.

[0091] The spray rotor 200 may be positioned on the lower side of the duct 100. The spray rotor 200 may be rotatably coupled to the duct 100. The spray rotor 200 may obtain rotational power from the force of spraying the washing water. The spray rotor 200 may rotate on the lower side of the duct 100 and spray the washing water.

[0092] The spray rotor 200 may rotate to spray washing water in multiple directions. The spray rotor 200 may spray the washing water toward nearby dishware.

[0093] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the duct and the spray rotor according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing the duct and the spray rotor. FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the duct and the spray rotor of FIG. 7 from a different angle.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, a coupling structure of the duct 100 and the spray rotor 200 will be described.

[0095] The duct 100 may include the duct body 110 that forms a flow path 110f (see FIG. 2) through which the washing water flows. The duct 100 may be arranged such that the duct body 110 extends along one direction. For example, the duct body 110 may be arranged along the front-to-back direction.

[0096] The spray rotors 200 may be provided in a plurality. The plurality of spray rotors 200 may be arranged at predetermined intervals along the extension direction of the duct 100.

[0097] The duct 100 may include a plurality of duct holders 130 configured to rotatably support the plurality of spray rotors 200. In other words, the plurality of duct holders 130 and the plurality of spray rotors 200 may be coupled such that each spray rotor 200 may be rotatable.

[0098] While one spray rotor 200 and one duct holder 130 are described herein, the description may be applied to the plurality of spray rotors 200 and the plurality of duct holders 130.

[0099] The duct body 110 may include a connecting portion 111 configured to receive washing water from the inlet duct 14. The connecting portion 111 may be connected to the inlet duct 14 that receives washing water from the sump 70 (see FIG. 2). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and for example, the connecting portion 111 may be directly connected to the sump 70.

[0100] The duct body 110 may include a support guide 112 configured to be supported by the duct support portion 5313. The support guide 112 may guide the duct 100 to be seated on the duct support portion 5313.

[0101] The support guide 112 may be supported by the duct support portion 5313. The support guide 112 may include a contact portion 1121 (see FIG. 10) configured to be supported by the duct support portion 5313. More particularly, the contact portion 1121 may be positioned on a front side of the duct body 110 and may be supported by the duct support portion 5313 positioned on the most forward side of the duct support portion 5313.

[0102] The duct body 110 may include an insertion guide 113 into which at least a portion of the duct support portion 5313 is inserted. The insertion guide 113 may be configured such that at least a portion of the duct support portion 5313 is inserted between the duct body 110 and the insertion guide 113.

[0103] The duct support portion 5313 may be held in a gap formed between the insertion guide 113 and the duct body 110 with the duct support portion 5313 being inserted therein. The insertion guide 113 may be formed on a portion of the duct body 110. After the duct support portion 5313 is inserted between the insertion guide 113 and the duct body 110, the support guide 112 may be arranged to contact the duct support portion 5313 positioned at the most forward side.

[0104] The duct body 110 may be seated such that the duct 100 is easily coupled or decoupled from the duct support portion 5313 by contacting the duct support portion 5313 positioned at the most forward side after at least a portion of the duct support portion 5313 is inserted into the insertion guide 113.

[0105] The duct support portions 5313 may be arranged to be spaced apart at predetermined intervals. The bottom portion 531 may include the rotor opening 533a arranged between the duct support portions 5313 to allow the spray rotor 200 to pass therethrough.

[0106] The spray rotor 200 may be coupled to the lower side of the duct 100. With the spray rotor 200 coupled to the lower side of the duct 100, the duct 100 may be seated on the duct support portion 5313. In other words, the spray rotor 200 may pass through the rotor opening 533a and be positioned lower than the duct support portion 5313.

[0107] The spray rotor 200 may be rotatably coupled to the duct 100.

[0108] The duct 100 may include a duct bearing 120 for supplying washing water from the duct body 110 to the spray rotor 200. The duct bearing 120 may be rotatably coupled to the spray rotor 200.

[0109] The duct bearing 120 may protrude downwardly from the duct body 110. The duct bearing 120 may be configured such that the washing water flowing through the flow path 110f (see FIG. 2) inside the duct body 110 may be supplied to the spray rotor 200.

[0110] The duct 100 may include the duct holder 130 configured to rotatably support the spray rotor 200 together with the duct bearing 120.

[0111] The duct holder 130 may include a support bearing 133 positioned to face the duct bearing 120. The support bearing 133 may be spaced apart from the duct bearing 120 by at a predetermined distance. The spray rotor 200 may be coupled between the duct bearing 120 and the support bearing 133.

[0112] The duct holder 130 may include an extension portion 131 extending along a protruding direction of the duct bearing 120 from the duct body 110. The extension portion 131 may form a gap for the spray rotor 200 to be coupled between the duct bearing 120 and the support bearing 133.

[0113] The duct 100 may be integrally formed. More particularly, the duct body 110, the duct bearing 120, and the duct holder 130 may be integrally formed. By integrally forming the duct body 110 and the duct holder 130, the gap between the duct bearing 120 and the duct holder 130 may be manufactured to be constant. Accordingly, the tolerance of the spray rotor 200 coupled between the duct bearing 120 and the duct holder 130 may be minimized.

[0114] In addition, the duct holder 130 may include an elastically deformable material. The spray rotor 200 may have a height corresponding to the gap between the duct bearing 120 and the duct holder 130. In other words, in response to the spray rotor 200 being coupled between the duct bearing 120 and the duct holder 130, the duct holder 130 needs to be elastically deformed. In order for the spray rotor 200 to be coupled, a portion of the duct holder 130 needs to be elastically deformed to increase the gap between the duct bearing 120 and the duct holder 130. Accordingly, the duct holder 130 may be configured to be elastically deformable.

[0115] The duct holder 130 may include a holder portion 132 that is bent from the extension portion 131. The holder portion 132 may extend in a direction approximately the same as the extension direction of the duct body 110. In other words, the extension portion 131 and the holder portion 132 may be formed to be approximately orthogonal. However, the shape of the duct holder 130 is not limited thereto, and any shape may be provided as long as the support bearing 133 is arranged to face the duct bearing 120.

[0116] The support bearing 133 may be located at an end of the holder portion 132. In another expression, the support bearing 133 may be formed at a position opposite to the position where the holder portion 132 is bent from the extension portion 131.

[0117] The support bearing 133 may include a support end 133a whose cross-sectional area is decreased toward the spray rotor 200 in order to reduce frictional force generated while supporting the spray rotor 200.

[0118] The support end 133a may have an approximately pointed shape. However, the present disclosure may be formed to have a surface contact such that the spray rotor 200 has a certain level of stability for rotation.

[0119] The spray rotor 200 may be rotatable. The spray rotor 200 may be rotatable while being coupled between the duct bearing 120 and the support bearing 133. The spray rotor 200 may be rotatable by spraying washing water.

[0120] The spray rotor 200 may include a nozzle body 210 configured to receive a supply of washing water. The nozzle body 210 may be rotatably coupled with the duct bearing 120.

[0121] The spray rotor 200 may include a base body 220 configured to be coupled with the nozzle body 210 to receive the washing water entering the nozzle body 210. The base body 220 may form, together with the nozzle body 210, a space in which the washing water is received.

[0122] The base body 220 may be rotatably supported by the duct holder 130.

[0123] The base body 220 may include a recessed portion 221 that is recessed with which the support bearing 133 contacts. The recessed portion 221 of the base body 220 may be rotatably supported by the support bearing 133 of the duct holder 130. More particularly, the base body 220 may be in contact with the support end 133a of the support bearing 133.

[0124] The spray rotor 200 may include the propulsion nozzle 200a formed on an outer circumferential surface of the spray rotor 200. The propulsion nozzle 200a may generate a rotational force of the spray rotor 200 by spraying washing water. The propulsion nozzle 200a may be configured to form a given angle with a radial direction of the spray rotor 200.

[0125] Since the propulsion nozzle 200a is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the spray rotor 200, it may be spaced apart by approximately the radius of the spray rotor 200. In other words, the magnitude of the moment generated by the tangential force of the spray rotor 200 among the force components caused by the washing water sprayed from the propulsion nozzle 200a may be maximized.

[0126] The spray rotor 200 may include an upper nozzle 210a (see FIG. 12) configured to spray the washing water in a direction different from a direction in which the propulsion nozzle 200a sprays.

[0127] The upper nozzle 210a may be formed in the nozzle body 210. The upper nozzle 210a may be formed by an upper nozzle forming portion 212. The upper nozzle 210a may spray washing water upwardly along the radial direction of the spray rotor 200.

[0128] The upper nozzle 210a may be formed along the radial direction of the spray rotor 200. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the upper nozzle 210a may be configured to form a given angle with the radial direction of the spray rotor 200, similar to the propulsion nozzle 200a. In other words, the upper nozzle 210a may also spray washing water to generate a rotational force of the spray rotor 200.

[0129] As such, since the spraying directions of the upper nozzle 210a and the propulsion nozzle 200a are provided differently, the efficiency of washing dishware may be improved.

[0130] While the propulsion nozzle 200a and the upper nozzle 210a are shown in the drawings as being one each, they are not limited thereto. The position, size, and / or number of the propulsion nozzles 200a and the upper nozzles 210a are not limited thereto, and may have different shapes and / or structures.

[0131] FIG. 9 is an exploded view showing the spray rotor according to an embodiment.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 9, the spray rotor 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be formed by combining the nozzle body 210 and the base body 220. The spray rotor 200 may include a sealing body 230 configured to cover a coupling portion of the nozzle body 210 and the base body 220.

[0133] The nozzle body 210 may include a nozzle body coupling portion 2101. The nozzle body coupling portion 2101 may be formed along a circumferential direction of the nozzle body 210. The nozzle body coupling portion 2101 may have a shape protruding from an outer circumferential surface of the nozzle body 210.

[0134] The base body 220 may include a base body coupling portion 2201. The base body coupling portion 2201 may be formed along a circumferential direction of the base body 220. The base body coupling portion 2201 may have a shape protruding from an outer circumferential surface of the base body 220.

[0135] The nozzle body coupling portion 2101 and the base body coupling portion 2201 may be positioned to correspond to each other. The nozzle body coupling portion 2101 and the base body coupling portion 2201 may be inserted into a coupling groove 231 of the sealing body 230 while being coupled.

[0136] The coupling groove 231 may accommodate the nozzle body coupling portion 2101 and the base body coupling portion 2201. In other words, the sealing body 230 may cover a gap between the nozzle body coupling portion 2101 and the base body coupling portion 2201. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent washing water from leaking out between the nozzle body coupling portion 2101 and the base body coupling portion 2201.

[0137] The nozzle body 210 and the base body 220 may together form the propulsion nozzle 200a. The nozzle body 210 may include a first nozzle forming portion 213. The base body 220 may include a second nozzle forming portion 223. In other words, the first nozzle forming portion 213 and the second nozzle forming portion 223 may form the propulsion nozzle 200a.

[0138] The propulsion nozzle 200a may not be covered by the sealing body 230. The sealing body 230 may have a portion corresponding to the first nozzle forming portion 213 and the second nozzle forming portion 223 cut out.

[0139] The base body 220 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a drainage portion 224 formed to prevent residual water.

[0140] Washing water may be left inside the spray rotor 200. Alternatively, food or the like soiled on the dishware may enter the interior of the spray rotor 200 through the propulsion nozzle 200a or the upper nozzle 210a. This may cause the interior of the spray rotor 200 to become contaminated, or may cause the dishware to be washed with contaminated washing water. Therefore, it is necessary to discharge the washing water or food inside the spray rotor 200.

[0141] The drainage portion 224 may be formed to be recessed in an inner side of the base body 220. The drainage portion 224 may be formed to be inclined downwardly toward the propulsion nozzle 200a. Washing water, food, or the like remaining in the drainage portion 224 may be drained through the propulsion nozzle 200a.

[0142] In addition, residual water inside the duct 100 may be drained. Since the duct 100 is extended for relatively long distance along one direction, the washing water inside the duct 100 may not flow and may remain. In particular, when no washing water is supplied after the operation of the dishwasher 1 is completed, the washing water may not flow, and thus residual water may be generated inside the duct 100.

[0143] The spray rotor 200 may be positioned on the lower side of the duct 100, so that residual water inside the duct 100 may flow to the spray rotor 200 through the duct bearing 120. The residual water that has flowed into the spray rotor 200 may be discharged to the propulsion nozzle 200a through the drainage portion 224.

[0144] The spray rotor 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure has been described as having the nozzle body 210 and the base body 220 separated, but is not limited thereto. The nozzle body 210 and the base body 220 may be integrally formed. In addition, the nozzle body 210, the base body 220, and / or the sealing body 230 may be integrally formed. In addition, when the nozzle body 210 and the base body 220 are integrally formed, a separate sealing body 230 may be unnecessary.

[0145] FIG. 10 is a side view showing the coupled structure of the duct and the spray rotor of FIG. 6. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the duct and the spray device of FIG. 6 cut along the extension direction of the duct. FIG. 12 is a top view of the spray rotor, showing the action of washing water sprayed by the spray rotor.

[0146] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, the spray rotor 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be rotatably coupled to the lower portion of the duct 100.

[0147] The spray rotor 200 may be rotated by spraying washing water flowing through the flow path 110f formed inside the duct 100. The duct 100 may be configured such that the washing water moves through the duct bearing 120 protruding from the duct body 110.

[0148] The nozzle portion 211 of the nozzle body 210 may be rotatably coupled with the duct bearing 120. The nozzle portion 211 may be coupled to an outer side of the duct bearing 120. More particularly, the nozzle portion 211 may be coupled to surround the duct bearing 120. The nozzle portion 211 may be coupled to the duct bearing 120 with a slight clearance to allow the spray rotor 200 to rotate smoothly.

[0149] The nozzle portion 211 may have a flow path cross-sectional area of a size corresponding to a flow path cross-sectional area of the duct bearing 120 so as to form a distribution flow path P together with the duct bearing 120.

[0150] The duct bearing 120 may form a flow path 120f for supplying washing water to the spray rotor 200. The nozzle portion 211 may form a flow path 211f in communication with the flow path 120f of the duct bearing 120. In other words, the flow path 120f of the duct bearing 120 and the flow path 211f of the nozzle portion 211 may have diameters of corresponding sizes at the portion where they are connected. Accordingly, the washing water passing through the boundary between the flow path 120f of the duct bearing 120 and the flow path 211f of the nozzle portion 211 may have little change in flow rate.

[0151] The duct body 110 may include a curved portion 114 configured to prevent a decrease in the flow rate of the washing water flowing in the flow path 110f formed inside the duct body 110 when it flows to the duct bearing 120.

[0152] The curved portion 114 may have a curved shape so as not to obstruct the flow of the washing water, thereby preventing a decrease in the flow rate of the washing water. When the washing water flowing in the flow path 110f inside the duct body 110 flows to the duct bearing 120, a flow rate of a certain level or higher may be ensured.

[0153] The flow path 120f of the duct bearing 120 may have a constant cross-sectional area. In other words, the washing water flowing inside the duct bearing 120 may not have a large change in flow rate. On the other hand, the cross-sectional area of the flow path 211f of the nozzle portion 211 may gradually increase as the washing water flows therethrough. In other words, the cross-sectional area of the flow path 211f of the nozzle portion 211 may increase as it approaches the base body 220.

[0154] Accordingly, the flow rate of the washing water flowing through the distribution flow path P may be slowed as it passes through the flow path 120f of the duct bearing 120 and through the flow path 211f inside the nozzle portion 211. As the cross-sectional area of the flow path increases, the flow rate decreases, so the flow rate may be slowed as it approaches the base body 220. For example, the flow rate v1 in the flow path 120f of the duct bearing 120 may be greater than the flow rate v2 at the downstream side of the nozzle portion.

[0155] As such, the flow rate at the coupling portion of the duct bearing 120 and the nozzle portion 211 may be sufficiently large. Accordingly, leakage through the gap between the coupling portion of the duct bearing 120 and the nozzle portion 211 may be minimized.

[0156] However, some of the washing water may seep between the coupling portion of the duct bearing 120 and the nozzle portion 211. Although some of the washing water may seep between the coupling portion of the duct bearing 120 and the nozzle portion 211, it may reduce the frictional force between the duct bearing 120 and the nozzle portion 211. Accordingly, it may be helpful for the rotation of the spray rotor 200.

[0157] The nozzle portion 211 may include sealing portions 2111a and 2111b configured to surround the duct bearing 120 to prevent the washing water from flowing through the gap between the duct bearing 120 and the nozzle portion 211.

[0158] The sealing portions 2111a and 2111b may have a size corresponding to an outer diameter of the duct bearing 120 so as to accommodate the duct bearing 120. Based on the duct bearing 120 being accommodated in the sealing portions 2111a and 2111b, the washing water passing through the distribution flow path P may be required to pass through the first sealing portion 2111a and the second sealing portion 2111b in turn. In other words, a labyrinth seal structure that prevents the washing water from flowing out may be formed.

[0159] The sealing portion 2111 of the present disclosure is only an example, and the sealing portion 2111 may be configured such that the washing water passes through more sealing steps.

[0160] The nozzle body 210 may include the upper nozzle forming portion 212 configured to form the upper nozzle 210a. The upper nozzle 210a may spray the washing water upwardly along the radial direction of the spray rotor 200. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the upper nozzle 210a may be configured to have various shapes, sizes, and / or positions.

[0161] Since the spraying directions of the upper nozzle 210a and the propulsion nozzle 200a may be provided differently, the efficiency of washing the dishware may be improved. Furthermore, in addition to the upper nozzle 210a, there may be additional nozzles formed on the lower side of the base body 210. In this case, the spray rotor 200 may spray washing water in more diverse directions.

[0162] In addition, the upper nozzle 210a is shown in the drawings as spraying washing water in the same direction as the radial direction of the spray rotor 200, but is not limited thereto. The upper nozzle 210a may also be arranged to form a predetermined angle with the radial direction of the spray rotor 200, thereby generating a rotational force.

[0163] The spray rotor 200 may spray washing water through the propulsion nozzle 200a and / or the upper nozzle 210a. The spray rotor 200 may include a guide protrusion 222 for guiding the washing water introduced through the distribution flow path P toward the propulsion nozzle 200a and / or the upper nozzle 210a.

[0164] The guide protrusion 222 may be formed at a position corresponding to the rotation axis of the spray rotor 200. Accordingly, the washing water introduced through the distribution flow path P may be uniformly distributed in the radial direction in the spray rotor 200 by the guide protrusion 222. In other words, since the washing water flows uniformly inside the spray rotor 200, the spray rotor 200 may rotate stably. In another expression, since the washing water inside the spray rotor 200 is not be moved unevenly, the spray rotor 200 may be prevented from rotating unstably.

[0165] With reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, a force applied to rotate the spray rotor 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0166] The spray rotor 200 may rotate in a direction opposite to the spraying direction of the washing water. More particularly, the washing water sprayed from the propulsion nozzle 200a may be sprayed along the direction in which the propulsion nozzle 200a is formed. In other words, the washing water sprayed from the propulsion nozzle 200a may form a predetermined angle with the direction of the radius r1 of the spray rotor 200.

[0167] The washing water sprayed from the propulsion nozzle 200a may generate a propulsion force in the opposite direction of Fr, which is a normal direction component in the direction of the radius r1 of the spray rotor 200. In this case, since a distance from the rotation axis of the spray rotor 200 to Fr is as much as the radius r1 of the spray rotor 200, the moment caused by the washing water sprayed from the propulsion nozzle 200a may be as much as the magnitude of Fr multiplied by the radius r1 of the spray rotor 200.

[0168] The spray rotor 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may have a smaller radius than the spray arms 41, 42 and 43 of the spraying device 40. Accordingly, the rotational force generated on the spray rotor 200 may be smaller.

[0169] However, by the coupling structure between the duct 100 and the spray rotor 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the spray rotor 200 may rotate smoothly by reducing the frictional force acting on the spray rotor 200 and the resulting moment.

[0170] The spray rotor 200 may be rotatably supported by the duct bearing 120 and the support bearing 133.

[0171] The spray rotor 200 may rotate in contact with the support bearing 133. The support bearing 133 may support the base body 220. More particularly, the support bearing 133 may support the recessed portion 221 of the base body 220.

[0172] The support bearing 133 may include the support end 133a having a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases as it approaches the recessed portion 221 of the base body 220. For rotation of the spray rotor 200, it may be advantageous for the support bearing 133 to have a smaller contact area with the recessed portion 221. Accordingly, the cross-sectional area of the support end 133a may decrease as it approaches the recessed portion 221.

[0173] However, the support bearing 133 may be arranged to contact the spray rotor 200 by a predetermined area so that the spray rotor 200 may rotate stably. In other words, the support bearing 133 may be arranged to be closer to a surface contact than a point contact so that the spray rotor 200 may rotate stably. In the present drawings, the support end 133a is shown as having a predetermined radius r2.

[0174] In other words, the moment caused by the frictional force generated between the support end 133a and the recessed portion 221 may be a value obtained by multiplying the frictional force by the radius r2 of the support end 133a. Since the radius r2 of the support end 133a is formed small, both the frictional force and the resulting moment may be small. Accordingly, the rotation of the spray rotor 200 may be smooth.

[0175] In addition, a frictional force may be applied between the duct bearing 120 and the nozzle portion 211. The frictional force between the duct bearing 120 and the nozzle portion 211 may occur between the duct bearing 120 and the sealing portion 2111. Accordingly, the moment due to the frictional force generated on the spray rotor 200 rotating about the duct bearing 120 as an axis may be a value obtained by multiplying the frictional force generated between the duct bearing 120 and the sealing portion 2111 by a distance r3 to the sealing portion.

[0176] With the duct bearing 120 as the axis, friction between the duct bearing 120 and the sealing portion 2111 may occur during rotation of the spray rotor 200. However, due to the labyrinth seal structure including the first sealing portion 2111a and the second sealing portion 2111b, the contact between the duct bearing 120 and the sealing portion 2111 may be minimized. In other words, the frictional force generated between the duct bearing 120 and the sealing portion 2111 may be negligible. Accordingly, the moment due to the frictional force generated between the duct bearing 120 and the sealing portion 2111 may also be minimal.

[0177] As such, although the spray rotor 200 has a smaller size than the spray arms 41, 42 and 43 (see FIG. 2), the spray rotor 200 may be rotated smoothly by minimizing the force impeding the rotation of the spray rotor 200.

[0178] The dishwasher according to an embodiment may include the tub 12, the basket 50 arrangeable within the tub to receive dishware, the spraying device 40 including the spray rotor 200 rotatable by spraying washing water to wash the dishware, the duct 100 including the duct body 110 configured to allow washing water to flow, the duct bearing 120 configured to rotatably support the spray rotor and supply washing water from the duct body to the spray rotor, and the duct holder 130 configured to rotatably support the spray rotor together with the duct bearing, wherein the spray rotor includes the nozzle body 210 rotatably coupleable to the duct bearing and configured to be supplied with washing water from the duct bearing, and the base body 220 supported by the duct holder and coupleable to the nozzle body enabled to receive the washing water flowing into the nozzle body.

[0179] The duct holder may include the support bearing 133 positioned to face each other in a straight line with the duct bearing and having a section whose cross-sectional area decreases as the support bearing approaches the base body.

[0180] The duct holder may further include the extension portion 131 extending along the protruding direction of the duct bearing from the duct body, and the holder portion 132 bent from the extension portion, and the support bearing may be positioned at the end of the holder portion.

[0181] The spray rotor may include the nozzles 200a and 210a formed to spray the washing water inside the spray rotor toward the dishware.

[0182] The nozzles may include the propulsion nozzle 200a formed on the outer circumferential surface of the spray rotor.

[0183] The nozzles may further include the upper nozzle 210a configured to spray washing water in a direction different from a direction in which the propulsion nozzle sprays, the upper nozzle being formed in the nozzle body.

[0184] The nozzle body may include the nozzle portion 211 having the flow path cross-sectional area of a size corresponding to the flow path cross-sectional area of the duct bearing so as to form the distribution flow path P together with the duct bearing.

[0185] The duct body may include the curved portion 114 formed to prevent a decrease in the flow rate of the washing water flowing from the duct body to the flow path of the duct bearing.

[0186] The nozzle portion may be configured such that the cross-sectional area of the flow path increases as the nozzle portion is farther away from the duct bearing.

[0187] The nozzle portion may include the sealing portion 2111 configured to surround the duct bearing to prevent the washing water from flowing out between the nozzle portion and the duct bearing.

[0188] The duct holder may include an elastic material so as to be elastically deformable while the spray rotor is coupled to the duct.

[0189] The basket may include the bottom portion 531 configured to support the dishware, and the duct body may be positioned on the upper side of the bottom portion.

[0190] The bottom portion may include the inclined support portions 5312a and 5312b configured to support the dishware so as to be inclined downward, and the duct support portion 5313 connected to the inclined support portion and configured to seat the duct body thereon.

[0191] The spray rotor may be disposed on the lower side of the duct body to spray washing water onto the dishware placed on the inclined support portion.

[0192] The duct body may extend along one direction, and the plurality of the duct bearings and the duct holders may be arranged along the one direction at predetermined intervals, and the spraying device may be provided in a plurality to be rotatably coupled to each of the plurality of duct holders and the plurality of duct bearings.

[0193] The dishwasher according to an embodiment may include the basket 50 including the bottom portion 531 for supporting dishware, the duct 100 configured to allow washing water to flow, wherein the duct including the duct body 110 positioned above the bottom portion, the duct bearing 120 protruding from the duct body, and the duct holder 130 including the support bearing arrangeable to face the duct bearing, and the spray rotor 200 configured to receive washing water from the duct bearing and to spray the washing water to wash the dishware, the spray rotor rotatably coupleable between the duct bearing and the support bearing.

[0194] The spray rotor may include the nozzle body 210 rotatably coupled to the duct bearing and configured to be supplied with washing water from the duct bearing, and the base body 220 supported by the duct holder and coupled to the nozzle body enabled to receive the washing water flowing into the nozzle body.

[0195] The support bearing may include the support end 133a whose diameter decreases as the support bearing approaches the base body.

[0196] The spray rotor may further include the propulsion nozzle 200a formed on the outer circumferential surface of the spray rotor, and the upper nozzle 210a configured to spray washing water in a direction different from a direction in which the propulsion nozzle sprays, the upper nozzle formed in the nozzle body.

[0197] The dishwasher according to an embodiment may include the tub 12, the basket 300 arrangeable within the tub and including a bottom portion for supporting dishware, the duct 100 in which washing water flows and including the duct body 110 positioned above the bottom portion, the duct bearing 120 protruding from the duct body, and the duct holder 130 including the support bearing 133 arrangeable to face the duct bearing, and the spray rotor 200 configured to receive washing water from the duct bearing to spray the washing water to wash the dishware, the spray rotor 200 rotatably coupleable between the duct bearing and the support bearing, wherein the spray rotor includes the nozzle body 210 rotatably coupleable to the duct bearing and configured to receive washing water from the duct bearing, and the base body 220 configured to be rotatably supported by the support bearing.

[0198] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the dishwasher may have improved washing performance.

[0199] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the dishwasher may include a miniaturized spray unit.

[0200] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the dishwasher may be capable of reducing friction of the bearing.

[0201] The effects to be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be apparent to those of skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the following description.

[0202] While the present disclosure has been particularly described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood by those of skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A dishwasher comprising: a tub; a basket in the tub and configured to receive dishware; a sprayer including a spray rotor, wherein the spray rotor includes: a nozzle body, and a base body coupled to the nozzle body so that the base body and the nozzle body together form a space; and a duct including: a duct body in which washing water is flowable, a duct bearing to which the nozzle body is rotatably coupled, wherein the duct bearing is configured to supply washing water flowing in the duct body from the duct body to the space formed by the base body and the nozzle body, and a duct holder that supports the base body so that the duct holder, together with the duct bearing, rotatably supports the spray rotor, and so that the washing water supplied to the space formed by the base body and the nozzle body is sprayed by the spray rotor toward the basket to wash dishware received in the basket.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the duct holder includes a support bearing facing the duct bearing and having a section whose cross-sectional area decreases as the support bearing approaches the base body.

3. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the duct holder further includes an extension portion extending along a protruding direction of the duct bearing from the duct body, and a holder portion bent from the extension portion, and the support bearing is at an end of the holder portion.

4. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the spray rotor includes a nozzle to spray the washing water in the space formed by the base body and the nozzle body toward the basket to wash dishware received in the basket.

5. The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein the nozzle includes a propulsion nozzle on an outer circumferential surface of the spray rotor.

6. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein the nozzle further includes an upper nozzle formed in the nozzle body and configured to spray washing water in a direction different from a direction in which washing water is sprayed by the propulsion nozzle.

7. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the nozzle body includes a nozzle portion having a flow path with a cross-sectional area of a size corresponding to a cross-sectional area of a flow path of the duct bearing so as to form a distribution flow path together with the duct bearing.

8. The dishwasher of claim 7, wherein the duct body includes a curved portion to prevent a decrease in a flow rate of the washing water flowing from the duct body to a flow path of the duct bearing.

9. The dishwasher of claim 7, wherein the nozzle portion is configured so that the cross-sectional area of the flow path of the nozzle portion increases as the nozzle portion is further away from the duct bearing.

10. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the nozzle portion includes a sealing portion surrounding the duct bearing to prevent washing water from flowing out between the nozzle portion and the duct bearing.

11. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the duct holder includes an elastic material so as to be elastically deformable while the nozzle body is being coupled to the duct bearing and the base body is being positioned to be supported by the duct holder.

12. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the basket includes a bottom portion configured to support the dishware, and the duct body is on an upper side of the bottom portion.

13. The dishwasher of claim 12, wherein the bottom portion includes: an inclined support portion configured to support the dishware so as to be inclined downwardly, and a duct support portion connected to the inclined support portion and having the duct body seated thereon.

14. The dishwasher of claim 13, wherein the spray rotor is on a lower side of the duct body to spray washing water onto dishware supported on the inclined support portion.

15. The dishwasher of claim 1, whereinthe dishwasher includes a plurality of the duct bearings and a plurality of the duct holders arranged at predetermined intervals along a direction along which the duct body longitudinally extends, the dishwasher includes a plurality of the spray rotors, and the duct holders of the plurality of duct holders, together with the duct bearings of the plurality of duct bearings, support spray rotors of the plurality of the spray rotors, respectively.

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