dishwasher

Abstract

A dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a tub, a basket configured to store tableware inside the tub, and a duct. The duct includes a duct frame forming a flow path, an inlet in the duct frame and configured such that water is flowable through the inlet into the flow path, an outlet in the duct frame and configured such that water that flowed through the inlet and into the flow path is flowable out of the flow path through the outlet to thereafter be sprayed inside the tub toward tableware stored in the basket, and a rib. The rib is inside the duct frame, surrounding at least a portion of the outlet, and configured to reduce a velocity of water flowing in the flow path and to redirect at least some water flowing in the flow path to the outlet.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT / KR2025 / 013633, filed Sep. 4, 2025, and claims foreign priority to Korean Application No. 10-2024-0121094, filed Sep. 5, 2024, and Korean Application No. 10-2024-0197757, filed Dec. 26, 2024. International Application No. PCT / KR2025 / 013633, Korean Application No. 10-2024-0121094, and Korean Application No. 10-2024-0197757 are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The disclosure relates to a dishwasher.BACKGROUND ART

[0003] A dishwasher is an apparatus that automatically washes food residues and the like on dishes using a detergent and water.

[0004] A dishwasher may include a main body, a tub disposed inside the main body, a basket disposed inside the tub to receive tableware, a spray unit configured to spray water onto the basket, and at least one duct for guiding water to the spray unit.

[0005] For example, the at least one duct may be arranged to be introduced into or withdrawn from the tub along with the basket.DISCLOSURE

[0006] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a dishwasher capable of reducing water consumption.

[0007] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a dishwasher capable of improving washing efficiency.

[0008] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a dishwasher including a duct having an improved structure.

[0009] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a dishwasher including a duct capable of reducing / preventing pressure loss and vortex generation of water.

[0010] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a dishwasher including a duct capable of uniformly maintaining a flow rate of water flowing out through a plurality of outlets.

[0011] 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.

[0012] The dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a tub, a basket configured to store tableware inside the tub, and a duct. The duct includes a duct frame forming a flow path, an inlet in the duct frame and configured such that water is flowable through the inlet into the flow path, an outlet in the duct frame and configured such that water that flowed through the inlet and into the flow path is flowable out of the flow path through the outlet to thereafter be sprayed inside the tub toward tableware stored in the basket, and a rib. The rib is inside the duct frame, surrounds at least a portion of the outlet, and configured to reduce a velocity of water flowing in the flow path and to redirect at least some water flowing in the flow path to the outlet.

[0013] The dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a tub, a sump configured to receive water within the tub, a first duct configured to be supplied with water from the sump and to guide the supplied water and including a shape extending along a first direction, a second duct configured to be supplied with water from the first duct and to guide the supplied water and including a shape extending along a second direction that intersects the first direction, and a plurality of spray rotors rotatably coupled to the second duct and configured to spray the water supplied from the second duct into an interior of the tub. The second duct includes a duct body configured to be open at an upper portion thereof, a duct cover coupled to the duct body and configured to cover the open upper portion of the duct body to form a flow path together with the duct body, an inlet configured to allow water to flow into the flow path from the first duct, and a plurality of outlets spaced apart along the second direction, wherein each outlet corresponds to each spray rotor and is configured to allow water to flow out of the flow path. A cross-sectional area of the flow path of the second duct is configured to be variable along the second direction.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a state in which a basket is inserted into a tub in the dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a state in which the basket is withdrawn from the tub in the dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a first duct, a second duct, and a spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the first duct, the second duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the first duct, the second duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the first duct, the second duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the first duct according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 10 is a partially enlarged view of the first duct according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I′ of FIG. 5.

[0025] FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II′ of FIG. 5.

[0026] FIG. 11C is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III′ of FIG. 5.

[0027] FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of the first duct, the second duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of portion A of FIG. 12.

[0029] FIG. 14 is a cutaway perspective view of a part of the dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of portion B of FIG. 12.MODES OF THE INVENTION

[0031] Various embodiments and the terms used in the present disclosure are not intended to limit the technology disclosed herein to specific forms, and the disclosure should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives to the corresponding embodiments.

[0032] In describing the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to designate similar constituent elements.

[0033] A singular expression may include a plural expression unless they are definitely different in a context.

[0034] Expressions such as “A or B,”“at least one of A or / and B,”“one or more of A or / and B,” A, B or C,”“A, B, or C,”“at least one of A and B,”“at least one of A, and B,”“at least one of A or B,”, “at least one of A, or B,”“at least one of A, B or / and C,”“one or more of A, B or / and C,” and the like used herein may include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As an example, the expression “at least one of A, B, and C” may include any of: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, A and B and C.

[0035] The term of “and / or” includes a plurality of combinations of relevant items or any one item among a plurality of relevant items.

[0036] In addition, the terms ‘portion’, ‘part’, ‘module’ and ‘member’ may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, a plurality of ‘portions’, ‘parts’, ‘modules’, and ‘members’ may be implemented as a single element, or a single ‘portions, ‘part’, ‘module’, or ‘member’ may include a plurality of elements.

[0037] Herein, the expressions “a first”, “a second”, “primary”, “secondary”, etc., may simply be used to distinguish an element from other elements, but is not limited to another aspect (importance or order) of elements.

[0038] When an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “(functionally or communicatively) coupled,” or “connected” to another element (e.g., a second element), the first element may be connected to the second element, directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third element.

[0039] In this disclosure, the terms “including”, “having”, and the like are used to specify features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, elements, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more of the features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, component, or combinations thereof.

[0040] When an element is said to be “connected”, “coupled”, “supported” or “contacted” with another element, this includes not only when elements are directly connected, coupled, supported or contacted, but also when elements are indirectly connected, coupled, supported or contacted through a third element.

[0041] Throughout the description, when an element is “on” another element, this includes not only when the element is in contact with the other element, but also when there is another element between the two elements.

[0042] The terms “up,”“down,”“front,”“rear,” and the like used in the following description may be defined with reference to the drawings, and the shape and position of each element are not limited by these terms. For example, the terms “front” and “rear” below may each be defined with reference to an X axis shown in the drawings, respectively. The terms “left” and “right” below may each be defined with reference to a Y axis shown in the drawings. The terms “up” and “down” below may each be defined with reference to a Z axis shown in the drawings.

[0043] For example, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a direction in which a door 11 faces in a dishwasher 1 may be defined as forward (+X direction), and the opposite direction may be defined as backward (−X direction).

[0044] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the dishwasher 1 may include a main body 10. The main body 10 may form an exterior of the dishwasher 1.

[0047] The dishwasher 1 may include a tub 12 disposed inside the main body 10. The tub 12 may form a washing chamber 10a. The tub 12 may be provided in a substantially box shape. One side of the tub 12 may be open. In other words, the tub 12 may include an opening 12a. In an example, the tub 12 may include an open front.

[0048] The dishwasher 1 may include the door 11. The door 11 may be configured to open or close the tub 12. The door 11 may be configured to open or close the opening 12a of the tub 12. The door 11 may be configured 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 to the main body 10. The door 11 may be detachably mounted to the main body 10.

[0049] The dishwasher 1 may include a storage container 50. The storage container 50 may be provided inside the tub 12. The storage container 50 may accommodate tableware. The storage container 50 may store tableware. The storage container 50 may be stackable with tableware. The storage container 50 may hold tableware. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the storage container 50 may be configured to receive not only tableware, but also a variety of washable items within the washing chamber 10a.

[0050] The storage container 50 may include at least one basket for storing tableware. The storage container 50 may include at least one rack assembly for storing tableware. The basket and the rack assembly may be interchangeable. It should be appreciated that the basket described below may also be referred to as a rack assembly.

[0051] 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 tableware. 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 an additional basket other than the plurality of baskets 51, 52 and 53. For example, the storage container 50 may include a single basket.

[0052] The storage container 50 may include an intermediate basket 52 located in the middle of the dishwasher 1 in a height direction. The intermediate basket 52 may be configured to be withdrawn from the tub 12 or inserted into the tub 12. The intermediate basket 52 may be configured to be slidably moved by a guide rail 13b. For example, the intermediate basket 52 may be configured to be supported on the intermediate guide rail 13b. For example, the intermediate guide rail 13b may be configured to be movable along a substantially front-to-back direction (X-direction) with respect to the tub 12.

[0053] The storage container 50 may include a lower basket 51 located at a lower portion of the dishwasher 1 in the height direction. The lower basket 51 may be configured to be withdrawn from the tub 12 or inserted into the tub 12. For example, the lower basket 51 may be configured to be supported on the tub 12. For example, the lower basket 51 may include a basket roller 51a, and the basket roller 51a may be configured to move along a support portion 12d formed on a lower portion of a side wall of the tub 12. For example, the support portion 12d may extend substantially along the front-to-back direction (X-direction). For example, the support portion 12d may be formed with a step from a lower surface 12b of the tub 12. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the examples described above, and in an example, the lower basket 51 may be configured to be slidable by a separate guide rail.

[0054] The plurality of baskets 51 and 52 may store relatively bulky tableware. However, the type of tableware stored in the plurality of baskets 51 and 52 is not limited to relatively bulky tableware. In other words, the plurality of baskets 51 and 52 may store both relatively bulky tableware and relatively small tableware.

[0055] The storage container 50 may include an upper basket 53 located at an upper portion of the dishwasher 1 in the height direction. The upper basket 53 may be formed in the shape of a rack assembly and configured to store relatively less bulky tableware. For example, the upper basket 53 may store cooking utensils or cutlery, such as ladles, knives, or flippers, and the like. For example, the upper basket 53 may store small cups, such as espresso mugs. However, the types of tableware accommodated in the upper basket 53 are not limited to the examples described above.

[0056] The upper basket 53 may be configured to be withdrawn from the tub 12 or inserted into the tub 12. The upper basket 53 may be slidably movable by an upper guide rail 13c. For example, the upper basket 53 may be configured to be supported by the upper guide rail 13c. For example, the upper guide rail 13c may be configured to be movable substantially along the front-to-back direction (X-direction) with respect to the tub 12. For example, the upper guide rail 13c may be configured to be slidably moved substantially along the front-to-back direction (X-direction) by a fixed roller 12e (see FIGS. 3 and 4) secured to a side surface 12c of the tub 12.

[0057] The lower basket 51, the intermediate basket 52, and the upper basket 53 are named based on their relative positions for ease of description, and the expressions “lower,”“intermediate,” and “upper” do not limit the position of the baskets. Hereinafter, for ease of description, the upper basket 53 may be referred to as the basket 53, and it should be appreciated that the description of basket 53 may be applicable to any configuration for storing tableware.

[0058] The dishwasher 1 may include the washing chamber 10a. The washing chamber 10a may be formed on an inner side of the tub 12. The washing chamber 10a may be defined as an internal space of the tub 12. The washing chamber 10a may refer to a space in which tableware loaded in the storage container 50 may be washed and dried.

[0059] The dishwasher 1 may include a spray device (e.g., a sprayer) 40 configured to spray water. Herein, water may refer to water for washing tableware, and may refer to both water mixed with a detergent and / or rinse aid, and water not mixed with a detergent and / or rinse aid. The spray device 40 may spray water into the interior of the tub 12. The spray device 40 may spray water into the washing chamber 10a. The spray device 40 may spray water toward the tableware stored in the storage container 50. The spray device 40 may be supplied with water from a sump 70 and / or at least one duct 100, 200, 300 and / or 400, which will be described later.

[0060] The spray device 40 may include at least one spray unit. The spray device 40 may include a single spray unit or a plurality of spray units 41, 42, 43 and 500.

[0061] For example, the spray device 40 may include a first spray unit 41 disposed below the lower basket 51 in the height direction of the dishwasher 1. For example, the first spray unit 41 may be connected to the sump 70, and water in the sump 70 may be directly supplied to the first spray unit 41.

[0062] For example, the spray device 40 may include a second spray unit 42 disposed below the intermediate basket 52 in the height direction of the dishwasher 1. For example, the second spray unit 42 may be connected to at least one duct (e.g., the duct 300), and water in the sump 70 may be supplied to the second spray unit 42 via the at least one duct (e.g., the ducts 300 and 400).

[0063] For example, the spray device 40 may include a third spray unit 43 disposed above the upper basket 53 in the height direction of the dishwasher 1. For example, the third spray unit 43 may be connected to at least one duct (e.g., the duct 400), and water in the sump 70 may be supplied to the third spray unit 43 via the at least one duct (e.g., the duct 400).

[0064] For example, the spray device 40 may include a fourth spray unit 500. For example, the fourth spray unit 500 may be connected to at least one duct (e.g., the duct 100), and water in the sump 70 may be supplied to the fourth spray unit 500 via the at least one duct (e.g., the ducts 100 and 200). A detailed description of the fourth spray unit 500 will be provided later.

[0065] However, the number of spray units is not limited to the example above. The spray device 40 may include two or fewer spray units. The spray device 40 may include five or more spray units.

[0066] Each of the plurality of spray units 41, 42, 43 and 500 may be configured to spray water while rotating. Each of the plurality of spray units 41, 42, 43 and 500 may be referred to as a spray rotor. Hereinafter, for ease of description, the fourth spray unit 500 will be referred to as a spray rotor 500.

[0067] However, the spray device 40 may also spray water in other ways than the above. For example, the first spray unit 41 may be fixed to the lower surface 12b of the tub 12. In this case, the first spray unit 41 may be configured to spray water in a substantially horizontal direction by a fixed nozzle, and the water sprayed in a substantially horizontal direction from the nozzle of the first spray unit 41 may be redirected and travel upward by a diversion assembly (not shown) disposed inside the washing chamber 10a. The diversion assembly may be mounted on a rail (not shown) and configured to be translationally movable along the rail. While the first spray unit 41 has been described as an example, other spray units may also be configured to spray water using fixed nozzles as in the examples described above.

[0068] The dishwasher 1 may include the sump 70. The sump 70 may be configured to receive water. The sump 70 may be configured to store water from within the tub 12. The sump 70 may collect water from the washing chamber 10a. For example, the lower surface 12b of the tub 12 may be inclined downwardly toward the sump 70 to facilitate smooth collecting water in the sump 70. Water from the washing chamber 10a may flow down along the inclination of the lower surface 12b of the tub 12 and smoothly into the sump 70.

[0069] The dishwasher 1 may include a circulation pump 71 configured to pump the water stored in the sump 70. The water pumped by the circulation pump 71 may flow into at least one duct (e.g., the duct 200, the duct 400). For example, the circulation pump 71 may be disposed in a mechanical chamber 10b.

[0070] The dishwasher 1 may include a drain pump 72 configured to drain water and / or foreign matter (e.g., food residues, etc.) remaining in the sump 70. The water pumped by the drain pump 72 may be discharged to an outside of the main body 10. For example, the drain pump 72 may be disposed in the mechanical chamber 10b.

[0071] The dishwasher 1 may include the mechanical chamber 10b arranged under the tub 12. The mechanical chamber 10b may be disposed below the washing chamber 10a. The mechanical chamber 10b may be provided with a configuration for circulating and / or draining water. The mechanical chamber 10b may be provided with a configuration for guiding water (e.g., piping). The dishwasher 1 may include a base frame 16 that forms the mechanical chamber 10b.

[0072] For example, at least a portion of the sump 70 may be disposed in the mechanical chamber 10b. The majority of the sump 70 may be disposed in the mechanical chamber 10b. In other words, an area of the sump 70 that is located in the washing chamber 10a may be smaller than an area of the sump 70 that is located in the mechanical chamber 10b. By reducing the area of the sump 70 that occupies 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 tableware storage capacity.

[0073] The dishwasher 1 may include a filter assembly 60. The filter assembly 60 may be configured to filter foreign matter contained in the water flowing into the sump 70. The water filtered through the filter assembly 60 may be pumped by the circulation pump 71 and provided to the spray device 40 and / or the at least one duct 100, 200, 300 and / or 400. 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.

[0074] The dishwasher 1 may include at least one duct 100, 200, 300 and / or 400. The at least one duct 100, 200, 300 and / or 400 may be disposed inside the tub 12. The at least one duct 100, 200, 300 and / or 400 may be disposed in the washing chamber 10a. The at least one duct 100, 200, 300 and / or 400 may guide water. The at least one duct 100, 200, 300 and / or 400 may guide the water supplied from the sump 70. The at least one duct 100, 200, 300 and / or 400 may deliver the water received from the sump 70 to the spray device 40. A detailed description of the duct will be provided later.

[0075] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a state in which a basket is inserted into a tub in the dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a state in which the basket is withdrawn from the tub in the dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the dishwasher 1 may include at least one duct 100, 200, 300 and / or 400. The at least one duct 100, 200, 300 and / or 400 may guide water. The at least one duct 100, 200, 300 and / or 400 may provide water to the spray device 40.

[0077] The dishwasher 1 may include a first duct 100. The first duct 100 may be configured to guide water within the tub 12. The first duct 100 may be connected to a second duct 200. The first duct 100 may be supplied with water from the second duct 200. The first duct 100 may guide the water supplied from the second duct 200. The first duct 100 may guide the water supplied from the second duct 200 to the spray rotor 500. The first duct 100 may provide water to the spray rotor 500. Water flowing out of the first duct 100 may flow to the spray rotor 500.

[0078] For example, the first duct 100 may include a shape extending along a first direction D1. For example, the first duct 100 may include a shape extending along a direction in which the basket 53 moves. For example, the first duct 100 may include a shape extending substantially along the front-to-back direction (X-direction). For example, the first direction D1 may correspond to the direction in which the basket 53 moves.

[0079] The dishwasher 1 may include a second duct 200. The second duct 200 may be configured to guide water within the tub 12. The second duct 200 may be connected to the sump 70. The second duct 200 may be supplied with water from the sump 70. The second duct 200 may guide the water supplied from the sump 70. The second duct 200 may guide the water supplied from the sump 70 to the first duct 100. The second duct 200 may supply water to the first duct 100. Water flowing out of the second duct 200 may flow into the first duct 100.

[0080] For example, the second duct 200 may include a shape extending along a second direction D2. For example, the second direction D2 may be a direction that intersects the first direction D1. For example, the second duct 200 may include a shape extending along a substantially vertical direction (Z-direction). For example, the second duct 200 may include a duct frame 210 that forms a flow path for guiding water. The duct frame 210 may include a first frame portion 211 connected to the sump 70 and extending substantially along the first direction D1, and a second frame portion 212 extending from the first frame portion 211 substantially along a second direction D2. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the examples described above, and it should be appreciated that the second duct 200 may include a variety of shapes to deliver water to the first duct 100.

[0081] The dishwasher 1 may include a third duct 300. The third duct 300 may be configured to guide water within the tub 12. The third duct 300 may be connected to a fourth duct 400. The third duct 300 may be supplied with water from the fourth duct 400. The third duct 300 may guide the water supplied from the fourth duct 400. The third duct 300 may guide the water supplied from the fourth duct 400 to the second spray unit 42. The third duct 300 may supply water to the second spray unit 42. Water flowing out of the third duct 300 may flow to the second spray unit 42.

[0082] For example, the third duct 300 may include a shape extending along the first direction D1. For example, the third duct 300 may include a shape extending substantially along the front-to-back direction (X-direction).

[0083] The dishwasher 1 may include a fourth duct 400. The fourth duct 400 may be configured to guide water within the tub 12. The fourth duct 400 may be connected to the sump 70. The fourth duct 400 may be supplied with water from the sump 70. The fourth duct 400 may guide the water supplied from the sump 70 to the third duct 300 and / or the third spray unit 43. The fourth duct 400 may guide the water supplied from the sump 70 to the third duct 300 and / or the third spray unit 43. The fourth duct 400 may supply water to the third duct 300 and / or the third spray unit 43. Water flowing out of the fourth duct 400 may flow into the third duct 300 and / or the third spray unit 43.

[0084] For example, the fourth duct 400 may include a shape extending along substantially the first direction D1 and a shape extending substantially along the second direction D2. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the examples described above, and it should be appreciated that the fourth duct 400 may include a variety of shapes for delivering water to at least one of the third duct 300 and the third spray unit 43.

[0085] The first duct 100, the second duct 200, the third duct 300, and the fourth duct 400 are not limited by the ordinal numbers “first”, “second”, “third”, and “fourth”. For example, the first duct 100 may be referred to as the second duct 100, and the second duct 200 may be referred to as the first duct 200.

[0086] In the drawings, the dishwasher 1 is shown as including four ducts 100, 200, 300 and 400, the number of ducts is not limited. The dishwasher 1 may include additional ducts other than the four ducts 100, 200, 300 and 400. At least some of the four ducts 100, 200, 300 and 400 may be provided integrally.

[0087] The dishwasher 1 may include the spray rotor 500. The spray rotor 500 may be configured to spray water within the tub 12. The spray rotor 500 may spray the water supplied from the first duct 100 into the tub 12. The spray rotor 500 may spray the water supplied from the first duct 100 toward tableware. The spray rotor 500 may be rotatably coupled to the first duct 100. The spray rotor 500 may spray water while rotating. Depending on the flow rate of water supplied to the spray rotor 500 from the first duct 100, the rotational speed of the spray rotor 500 may vary. In the drawings, six spray rotors 500 are shown, but there is no limitation on the number of spray rotors 500.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the basket 53 may be configured to be insertable into the tub 12 or withdrawable from the tub 12. The first duct 100 may be configured to be insertable into or withdrawable from the tub 12. The spray rotor 500 may be configured to be insertable into or withdrawable from the tub 12.

[0089] The first duct 100 may be detachably coupled to the basket 53. The first duct 100 may be secured to the basket 53. The first duct 100 may be configured to be movable while coupled to the basket 53. For example, the first duct 100 may move substantially along the first direction D1 (e.g., the front-to-back direction (X-direction)) while coupled to the basket 53.

[0090] The first duct 100 may be introduced into the tub 12 together with the basket 53. The first duct 100 may be coupled to the second duct 200 by being introduced into the tub 12 together with the basket 53. As the basket 53 is introduced into the tub 12, the first duct 100 may be configured to be docked with the second duct 200. The first duct 100 may be configured to be docked with the second duct 200 by moving substantially along the first direction D1. For example, the first duct 100 may be docked with the second duct 200 by moving substantially in a rearward (−X direction). While the first duct 100 and the second duct 200 are docked, water in the second duct 200 may flow into the first duct 100.

[0091] The first duct 100 may be withdrawn from the tub 12 together with the basket 53. The first duct 100 may be separated from the second duct 200 by being withdrawn from the tub 12 together with the basket 53. As the basket 53 is withdrawn from the tub 12, the first duct 100 may be configured to be undocked from the second duct 200. The first duct 100 may be configured to be undocked from the second duct 200 by moving substantially along the first direction D1. For example, the first duct 100 may be undocked from the second duct 200 by moving substantially in a forward (+X direction).

[0092] The spray rotor 500 may be detachably coupled to the first duct 100. The spray rotor 500 may be secured to the first duct 100. The spray rotor 500 may be configured to be movable while coupled to the first duct 100. In a state where the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53 and the spray rotor 500 is coupled to the first duct 100, the spray rotor 500 may move together with the first duct 100 and the basket 53 when the basket 53 is inserted into and / or withdrawn from the tub 12.

[0093] The dishwasher 1 may include a sealing member 80. The sealing member 80 may be configured to seal between the first duct 100 and the second duct 200. The sealing member 80 may be configured to prevent water from leaking between the first duct 100 and the second duct 200. The sealing member 80 may be mounted on the second duct 200. For example, the sealing member 80 may include a ring shape.

[0094] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the first duct, the second duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the first duct, the second duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the first duct, the second duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the first duct, the second duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 8, the dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the first duct 100, the second duct 200, and the spray rotor 500.

[0096] The first duct 100 and the second duct 200 may be detachably coupled. The first duct 100 and the spray rotor 500 may be detachably coupled. The spray rotor 500 may be rotatably coupled to the first duct 100.

[0097] The first duct 100 may include the duct frame 110. The duct frame 110 may form a flow path 110f (see FIG. 9). Water may flow along the flow path 110f. The duct frame 110 may form the overall appearance of the first duct 100. The duct frame 110 may extend substantially along the first direction D1.

[0098] The first duct 100 may include an inlet 120. The inlet 120 may be configured to receive water. The inlet 120 may be formed in the duct frame 110 to allow water to flow into the flow path 110f. Water flowing out of the second duct 200 may flow into the flow path 110f through the inlet 120. While the first duct 100 and the second duct 200 are coupled to each other, the inlet 120 may be in communication with an outlet 230 of the second duct 200, which will be described later. For example, the inlet 120 may be open in a rearward (−X direction).

[0099] The first duct 100 may include the outlet 130. The outlet 130 may be configured to dispense water. The outlet 130 may be formed in the duct frame 110 to allow water to flow out of the flow path 110f. Water in the flow path 110f may flow to the spray rotor 500 through the outlet 130. While the first duct 100 and the spray rotor 500 are coupled to each other, the outlet 130 may be in communication with the interior of the spray rotor 500. For example, the outlet 130 may be open in a downward (−Z direction).

[0100] For example, the outlet 130 may be provided in a plurality. The plurality of outlets 130 may be spaced apart along a flow direction F of the water flowing through the flow path 110f. The plurality of outlets 130 may be spaced apart along the first direction D1. The plurality of outlets 130 may be arranged along the first direction D1. Each of the plurality of outlets 130 may correspond to each of the plurality of spray rotors 500. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the examples described above, and there is no limitation on the number of outlets 130.

[0101] The first duct 100 may include a first holder 150. The first holder 150 may include the outlet 130. The first holder 150 may form the outlet 130. The first holder 150 may be configured to surround the outlet 130. The first holder 150 may be formed on a lower portion of the duct frame 110. The first holder 150 may extend downwardly from the duct frame 110. The first holder 150 may rotatably support an upper portion of the spray rotor 500. The upper portion of the spray rotor 500 may be rotatably coupled to the first holder 150.

[0102] The first duct 100 may include a second holder 160. The second holder 160 may be spaced apart from the first holder 150. The second holder 160 may be formed on the lower portion of the duct frame 110. The second holder 160 may extend downwardly from the duct frame 110. The second holder 160 may rotatably support a lower portion of the spray rotor 500. The lower portion of the spray rotor 500 may be rotatably coupled to the second holder 150.

[0103] The second duct 200 may include the duct frame 210. The duct frame 110 may form a flow path for guiding water. The duct frame 210 may form the overall appearance of the second duct 200. The duct frame 110 may be referred to as a first duct frame 110, and the duct frame 210 may be referred to as a second duct frame 210. However, the ordinal numbers “first” and “second” are intended only to distinguish between configurations and do not limit the configurations.

[0104] For example, the duct frame 210 may include the first frame portion 211 connected to the sump 70, and the second frame portion 212 extending from the first frame portion 211.

[0105] For example, the duct frame 210 may include a flange 213. The flange 213 may be formed on the second frame portion 212. The flange 213 may protrude from the second frame portion 212. The flange 213 may include the outlet 230, which will be described later. The flange 213 may form the outlet 230. The flange 213 may include a portion that connects to the first duct 100. For example, the flange 213 may include a hollow shape. The sealing member 80 may be detachably coupled to the flange 213. The sealing member 80 may be coupled to the flange 213 so as to wrap around an outer circumferential surface of the flange 213.

[0106] The second duct 200 may include an inlet (not shown). The inlet of the second duct 200 may be configured to receive water from the sump 70. Water in the sump 70 may flow into the interior of the duct frame 210 through the inlet of the second duct 200. For example, the inlet of the second duct 200 may be formed on a lower portion of the first frame portion 211. For example, the inlet of the second duct 200 may be open downwardly. To distinguish between configurations, the inlet 120 of the first duct 100 may be referred to as a first inlet 120, and the inlet of the second duct 200 may be referred to as a second inlet.

[0107] The second duct 200 may include the outlet 230. The outlet 230 may be formed in the duct frame 210 and configured to discharge water. Water in the flow path of the second duct 200 may flow to the first duct 100 through the outlet 230. While the first duct 100 and the second duct 200 are coupled to each other, the outlet 230 may be in communication with the inlet 120. For example, the outlet 230 may be open forwardly. To distinguish between configurations, the outlet 130 of the first duct 100 may be referred to as a first outlet 130, and the outlet 230 of the second duct 200 may be referred to as a second outlet 230.

[0108] The spray rotor 500 may include a communication port 510. The communication port 510 may be open toward the outlet130. The communication port 510 may receive water flowing out of the outlet 130. Water flowing out of the outlet 130 may flow into the interior of the spray rotor 500 through the communication port 510. For example, the communication port 510 may be open upwardly.

[0109] The spray rotor 500 may include a spray nozzle 520. The spray nozzle 520 may discharge water from the interior of the spray rotor 500. While the spray rotor 500 is rotating relative to the first duct 100, the spray nozzle 520 of the spray rotor 500 may spray water toward tableware.

[0110] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the first duct according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a partially enlarged view of the first duct according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0111] The duct frame 110 may include a duct body 111. The duct body 111 may be configured such that an upper portion of the duct body 111 is open. The duct body 111 may include a bottom 111a and a side wall 111b extending upwardly from the bottom 111a. The duct body 111 may form a space surrounded by the bottom 111a and the side wall 111b, and the space of the duct body 111 may form a portion of the flow path 110f.

[0112] The duct frame 110 may include a duct cover 112. The duct cover 112 may be configured to cover an open upper portion of the duct body 111. The duct cover 112 may be coupled to the duct body 111. The duct cover 112 may form the flow path 110f together with the duct body 111.

[0113] The duct cover 112 may include a shape that is inclined downward to cause water that collects on a surface of the duct cover 112 to fall off. For example, the duct cover 112 may include at least one inclined surface 112a and / or 112b. For example, the duct cover 112 may include a first inclined surface 112a and a second inclined surface 112b, and the first inclined surface 112a and the second inclined surface 112b may be symmetrical to each other. Tableware, such as cups, stored in the basket 53 may be supported by the at least one inclined surface 112a and / or 112b of the duct cover 112.

[0114] The duct body 111 and the duct cover 112 may be joined together using heat. In an example, the duct body 111 and the duct cover 112 may be thermally fused. The duct body 111 and the duct cover 112 may be integrally formed by thermal fusion. For example, an upper border of the duct body 111 may be fused to a lower border of the duct cover 112.

[0115] In general, the duct may have a shape extending in one direction to guide water. The duct may be manufactured via an injection molding process. However, in this case, the cross-sectional shape of the duct is limited, and the outlet through which water is discharge may have sharp edges. Furthermore, it is very difficult to form ribs and the like inside the duct.

[0116] However, according to the present disclosure, the duct body 111 and the duct cover 112 may be manufactured separately and then thermally fused. As a result, the cross-sectional shape of the first duct 100 may be relatively diverse. In addition, when manufacturing the duct body 111, a curved shape may be added around the outlet 130, thereby minimizing pressure loss and vortex generation of water. It is relatively easy to form a rib 140, which will be described later, inside the first duct 100.

[0117] The duct frame 110 may include a flange 113. The flange 113 may include the inlet 120 (see FIGS. 7, 8, and 10). The flange 113 may form the inlet 120. The flange 113 may be configured to be couplable to the second duct 200. Specifically, the flange 113 of the first duct 100 may be configured to be docked and undocked to the flange 213 of the second duct 200. For example, the flange 113 may extend rearwardly from a portion of the duct body 111. For example, the flange 113 may include a hollow shape. To distinguish between configurations, the flange 113 of the first duct 100 may be referred to as a first flange 113, and the flange 213 of the second duct 200 may be referred to as a second flange 213.

[0118] The duct frame 110 may include an inclined portion 114. The inclined portion 114 may connect the flange 113 and the duct body 111. The inclined portion 114 may connect a portion of the flange 113 and a portion of the duct body 111. The inclined portion 114 may connect a lower portion of the flange 113 and a lower portion of the duct body 111. The inclined portion 114 may extend from the lower portion of the flange 113 to the bottom 111a of the duct body 111. The inclined portion 114 may include a shape that is inclined upwardly from the flange 113 toward the duct body 111.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 10, the first duct 100 may include the rib 140. The rib 140 may be disposed inside the duct frame 110. The rib 140 may be disposed in the flow path 110f. The rib 140 may be formed on the duct body 111. The rib 140 may extend upwardly from the bottom 111a of the duct body 111.

[0120] The rib 140 may be configured to surround at least a portion of the outlet 130. The rib 140 may be arranged to surround at least a portion of an outlet 130a adjacent to the inlet 120 among the plurality of outlets 130. The rib 140 may be disposed adjacent to the outlet 130a. At least a portion of the rib 140 may be disposed on a downstream side of the outlet 130a, based on the flow direction F of the water flowing through the flow path 110f.

[0121] The rib 140 may be configured to reduce the velocity of the water flowing through the flow path 110f. The rib 140 may be configured to redirect the direction of water flowing through the flow path 110f. Thus, the rib 140 may adjust the flow rate of water discharged through the outlet 130a adjacent to the inlet 120 among the plurality of outlets 130. For example, the rib 140 may include an arc shape, which may prevent, suppress, or reduce the generation of a vortex in the flow path 110f.

[0122] The rib 140 will be described in more detail later.

[0123] FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I′ of FIG. 5. FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II′ of FIG. 5. FIG. 11C is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III′ of FIG. 5.

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C, a cross-sectional area of the flow path 110f of the first duct 100 may be provided to be variable. The cross-sectional area of the flow path 110f of the first duct 100 may be configured to be variable along the first direction D1. The first duct 100 may include a shape such that the cross-sectional area of the flow path 110f decreases along the flow direction F of water flowing through the flow path 110f. For example, the cross-sectional area of the flow path 110f of the first duct 100 may decrease along the forward (+X direction). For example, when comparing the cross-sectional areas of the flow path 110f based on the lines shown in FIG. 5, a first cross-sectional area A1 of the flow path 110f may be larger than a second cross-sectional area A2 of the flow path 110f, and the second cross-sectional area A2 of the flow path 110f may be larger than a third cross-sectional area A3 of the flow path 110f. Thus, the flow rate of water flowing out through the plurality of outlets 130 may be uniform. Furthermore, a volume of the first duct 100 may be reduced, thereby reducing water consumption of the dishwasher 1.

[0125] In general, if the cross-sectional area of the flow path in a duct remains the same, the flow rate of water may be high and the velocity of water may be fast at a portion where water enters, resulting in high dynamic pressure, while the flow rate of water may be low and the velocity of water may be slow at a portion where water exits, i.e., far from where water enters, resulting in low dynamic pressure. For reference, according to Bernoulli's law, dynamic pressure increases in proportion to the square of the velocity of the fluid. Assuming the cross-sectional area of the flow path remains constant, in a portion close to the inlet, the dynamic pressure may be high, allowing water to flow along the flow path rather than out through the outlet, and in a portion far from the inlet, the dynamic pressure may be low, allowing a large amount of water to flow out through the outlet. This means that the flow rate of water flowing out through the plurality of outlets may not be uniform. Consequently, the flow rate of water sprayed from the spray device may also not be uniform. In this case, some of the tableware stored in the basket may not be sprayed with water.

[0126] However, according to the present disclosure, the cross-sectional area of the flow path 110f may be configured to decrease along the flow direction F of the water. In other words, in a portion where the flow rate of water is large, the cross-sectional area may be relatively large, and in a portion where the flow rate of water is small, the cross-sectional area may be relatively small. Thus, the velocity of the water flowing along the flow path 110f may be maintained uniformly, and the flow rate of water discharged through the plurality of outlets 130 may also be maintained uniformly. The plurality of spray rotors 500 may spray water evenly onto the tableware stored in the basket 53. As a result, the washing efficiency of the dishwasher 1 may be improved.

[0127] FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of the first duct, the second duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of portion A of FIG. 12. FIG. 14 is a cutaway perspective view of a part of the dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of portion B of FIG. 12.

[0128] With reference to FIGS. 12 to 15, an exemplary flow of water will be described. Water guided by the second duct 200 may flow to the first duct 100. The first duct 100 may guide the water supplied from the second duct 200. The water guided by the first duct 100 may flow to the plurality of spray rotors 500 through the plurality of outlets 130. Each of the spray rotors 500 may be supplied with water flowing out through each of the outlets 130 and may spray the supplied water toward the tableware.

[0129] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an inner diameter I of the flange 113 may be greater than or equal to a distance H along a vertical direction (Z-direction) between an inner surface of the duct body 111 and an inner surface of the duct cover 112 (hereinafter, may be referred to as a height H of the flow path 110f). For example, the inner diameter I may be based on the smallest value, and the distance H may be based on the largest value. The flange 113 of the first duct 100 may be a portion connected to the second flange 213 of the second duct 200. When the inner diameter I of the flange 113 is larger than a given range, the coupling force of the first duct 100 and the second duct 200 may be increased. In addition, when the inner diameter I of the flange 113 is larger than a given range, a size of the inlet 120 may also be larger than a given range, and pressure loss of water may be reduced.

[0130] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, one side 113a of the flange 113 adjacent to the duct body 111 may be disposed below the duct cover 112. A portion including the one side 113a of the flange 113 may be disposed below the duct cover 112. An upper end of the flange 113 may not be disposed above an upper end of the duct cover 112. Thus, when the duct cover 112 is coupled to the duct body 111, the flange 113 may not interfere with the duct cover 112.

[0131] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a portion including the one side 113a of the flange 113 may be disposed below the duct cover 112, and the inner diameter I of the flange 113 may be greater than or equal to the height H of the flow path 110f. With such a shape, the inclined portion 114 for connecting the flange 113 and the duct body 111 may be formed.

[0132] The inclined portion 114 may be inclined upwardly from the lower portion of the flange 113 toward the bottom 111a of the duct body 111. The inclined portion 114 may be disposed around the outlet 130a adjacent to the inlet 120 among the plurality of outlets 130. For example, the inclined portion 114 may be disposed on an upstream side of the outlet 130a adjacent to the inlet 120 among the plurality of outlets 130. For example, the inclined portion 114 may be disposed on a rear side of the outlet 130a adjacent to the inlet 120 among the plurality of outlets 130.

[0133] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 14, the first duct 100 may include the rib 140. The rib 140 may be disposed adjacent to the outlet 130 and configured to reduce the velocity of water flowing through the flow path 110f and redirect water flowing through the flow path 110f.

[0134] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the rib 140 may help to maintain a uniform flow rate of water flowing out through the plurality of outlets 130. In a portion adjacent to the inlet 120, the flow rate of water may be high and the velocity of water may be fast, resulting in high dynamic pressure. In addition, the velocity of water flowing along the inclined portion 114 may be relatively high. The water may have a large flow velocity due to the slope of the inclined portion 114, and the dynamic pressure may also be large. If the dynamic pressure is high, the water may flow along the flow path 110f rather than out to the outlet 130a. The rib 140 may be disposed on the downstream side of the outlet 130a to reduce the velocity of the water flowing through the flow path 110f and to redirect the water flowing through the flow path 110f. The water whose velocity is reduced by the rib 140 may flow smoothly to the outlet 130a. The water whose redirected by the rib 140 may be directed toward the outlet 130a. In other words, the rib 140 may guide the water toward the first outlet 130a. By providing the first duct 100 with the rib 140, the flow rate of water flowing to the outlet 130a may be secured.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 15, the outlet 130 may be formed to penetrate the bottom 111a of the duct body 111. The bottom 111a of the duct body 111 may include a shape that is inclined downwardly toward the outlet 130. Thus, water in the flow path 110f may flow smoothly toward the outlet 130. Residual water in the flow path 110f may flow along the bottom 111a of the duct body 111 and be discharged through the outlet 130.

[0136] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a curved portion R may be formed around the outlet 130. The curved portion R may be formed between the bottom 111a of the duct body 111 and the holder 150. Thus, pressure loss of water discharged through each of the plurality of outlets 130 may be reduced, and the generation of vortices may be prevented / suppressed.

[0137] The dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes the tub 12, the basket 53 configured to store tableware inside the tub 12, and the duct 100. The duct 100 includes the duct frame 110 forming the flow path 110f, the inlet 120 in the duct frame 110 and configured such that water is flowable through the inlet 120 into the flow path 110f, the outlet 130 in the duct frame 110 and configured such that water that flowed through the inlet 120 and into the flow path is flowable out of the flow path 110f through the outlet 130 to thereafter be sprayed inside the tub 12 toward tableware stored in the basket 53, and the rib 140. The rib 140 is inside the duct frame 110 and surrounds at least a portion of the outlet 130. The rib 140 is configured to reduce a velocity of water flowing in the flow path 110f and to redirect at least some water flowing in the flow path 110f to the outlet 130.

[0138] The outlet 130 may be a respective outlet of a plurality of outlets in the duct frame 110. Each outlet of the plurality of outlets 130 is configured such that water that flowed through the inlet 120 and into the flow path 110f is flowable out of the flow path 110f through the outlet 130 to thereafter be sprayed inside the tub 12 toward tableware stored in the basket 53. The outlets 130 of the plurality of outlets 130 may be spaced apart from each other along a flow direction F of the water through the flow path 110f. The outlet which the rib 140 surrounds at least a portion of may be adjacent to the inlet 120 among the plurality of outlets 130 such that the rib 140 redirects some water flowing in the flow path 110f to the outlet 130 adjacent to the inlet 120.

[0139] At least a portion of the rib 140 may be downstream of the outlet 130 in a flow direction F of water through the flow path 110f.

[0140] The rib 140 may have an arc shape.

[0141] The duct frame 110 may include the duct body 111 that has an open upper portion, and the duct cover 112 coupled to the duct body and covering the open upper portion of the duct body. The rib 140 may extend upwardly from a bottom 111a of the duct body 111.

[0142] The outlet 130 may penetrate the bottom 111a of the duct body 111. The bottom 111a of the duct body 111 may be inclined downwardly toward the outlet 130.

[0143] The duct 100 may have a shape such that a cross-sectional area of the flow path 110f decreases along the flow direction F of water through the flow path 110f, and such that a flow rate of water flowing out of the flow path through the plurality of outlets 130 may be uniform.

[0144] The duct frame 110 may include the duct body 111 having an open upper portion thereof, and the duct cover 112 covering the open upper portion of the duct body and integrally formed with the duct body.

[0145] The duct may be the first duct 100. The dishwasher 1 may further include the sump 70 configured to receive water within the tub, and the second duct 200 configured to be supplied with water from the sump 70 and to guide the supplied water to the first duct 100.

[0146] The duct frame 110 may include the duct body 111 having an open upper portion thereof, the duct cover 112 covering the open upper portion of the duct body, the flange 113 including the inlet 120 and coupled to the second duct, the flange 113 having a hollow shape, and the inclined portion 114 extending from the flange 113 to the duct body 111 and having an upwardly inclined shape.

[0147] An inner diameter I of the flange 113 may be greater than or equal to a distance H along a vertical direction (Z-direction) between an inner surface of the duct body 111 and an inner surface of the duct cover 112.

[0148] One side 113a of the flange 113 adjacent to the duct body may be disposed below the duct cover 112 so as not to interfere with the duct cover 112.

[0149] The first duct 100 may be detachably coupled to the basket 53. The first duct 100 may be coupled to the second duct 200 by being inserted into the tub 12 together with the basket 53. The first duct 100 may be detached from the second duct 200 by being withdrawn from the tub 12 together with the basket 53.

[0150] The duct cover 112 may be inclined downwardly to allow water collected on the duct cover to fall off the duct cover 112.

[0151] The dishwasher 1 may further include the spray rotor 500 configured to be supplied with water flowing out of the flow path through the outlet and to spray the supplied water toward tableware stored in the basket 53. The duct 100 may further include the first holder 150 including the outlet 130 and configured to rotatably support an upper portion of the spray rotor, and the second holder 160 configured to rotatably support a lower portion of the spray rotor.

[0152] The dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the tub 12, the sump 70 configured to receive water within the tub, the first duct 200 configured to be supplied with water from the sump and to guide the supplied water and including a shape extending along the first direction D2, the second duct 100 configured to be supplied with water from the first duct 200 and to guide the supplied water and including a shape extending along the second direction D1 that intersects the first direction D2, and the plurality of spray rotors 500 rotatably coupled to the second duct 100 and configured to spray the water supplied from the second duct 100 into an interior of the tub 12. The second duct 100 may include the duct body 111 configured to be open at an upper portion thereof, the duct cover 112 coupled to the duct body and configured to cover the open upper portion of the duct body to form the flow path 110f together with the duct body, the inlet 120 configured to allow water to flow into the flow path from the first duct 200, and the plurality of outlets 130 spaced apart along the second direction D1, wherein each outlet corresponds to each spray rotor and is configured to allow water to flow out of the flow path. A cross-sectional area of the flow path 110f of the second duct 100 may be configured to be variable along the second direction D1.

[0153] The first direction D2 may be a vertical direction, and the second direction D1 may be a front-to-back direction. The cross-sectional area of the flow path 110f of the second duct 100 may be configured to decrease along a forward direction.

[0154] The second duct 100 may include the rib 140. The rib 140 may be arranged in the flow path 110f to surround at least a portion of the outlet 130a adjacent to the inlet among the plurality of outlets 130. The rib 140 may reduce a velocity f water flowing through the flow path 110f. The rib 140 may be configured to redirect the water flowing through the flow path 110f.

[0155] The outlet 130 may be formed to penetrate the bottom 111a of the duct body 111. The bottom 111a of the duct body 111 may include a shape that is inclined downwardly toward the outlet 130.

[0156] The dishwasher 1 may further include the basket 53 configured to receive tableware and to which the second duct 100 is fixed. The second duct 100 may be configured to be docked or undocked to the first duct 200 by moving along the second direction D1 while fixed to the basket.

[0157] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the first duct 100 may include a shape capable of reducing / preventing pressure loss and vortex generation of water. The cross-sectional area of the flow path 110f of the first duct 100 may decrease along the flow direction F of water. The first duct 100 may include the rib 140 for controlling the velocity of water. Whereby, the flow rate of water flowing out through the plurality of outlets 130 may be kept uniform. In other words, the flow rate of water flowing into the plurality of spray rotors 500 may be kept uniform. The rotation of some of the plurality of spray rotors 500 may be prevented from stopping, and the flow rate of water sprayed from each of the plurality of spray rotors 500 may be uniform. Consequently, the washing efficiency of the dishwasher 1 may be enhanced.

[0158] The effects to be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects can be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the description below.

[0159] 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 configured to store tableware inside the tub; anda duct including:a duct frame forming a flow path,an inlet in the duct frame and configured such that water is flowable through the inlet into the flow path,an outlet in the duct frame and configured such that water that flowed through the inlet and into the flow path is flowable out of the flow path through the outlet to thereafter be sprayed inside the tub toward tableware stored in the basket, anda rib inside the duct frame, surrounding at least a portion of the outlet, and configured to reduce a velocity of water flowing in the flow path and to redirect at least some water flowing in the flow path to the outlet.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1, whereinthe outlet is a respective outlet of a plurality of outlets in the duct frame, and each outlet of the plurality of outlets is configured such that water that flowed through the inlet and into the flow path is flowable out of the flow path through the outlet to thereafter be sprayed inside the tub toward tableware stored in the basket,the outlets of the plurality of outlets are spaced apart from each other along a flow direction of the water through the flow path, andthe outlet which the rib surrounds at least a portion of is adjacent to the inlet among the plurality of outlets such that the rib redirects some water flowing in the flow path to the outlet adjacent to the inlet.

3. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the rib is downstream of the outlet in a flow direction of water through the flow path.

4. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the rib has an arc shape.

5. The dishwasher of claim 1, whereinthe duct frame includes:a duct body that has an open upper portion, anda duct cover coupled to the duct body and covering the open upper portion of the duct body, andthe rib extends upwardly from a bottom of the duct body.

6. The dishwasher of claim 5, whereinthe outlet penetrates the bottom of the duct body, andthe bottom of the duct body is inclined downwardly toward the outlet.

7. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the duct has a shape such that a cross-sectional area of the flow path decreases along a flow direction of water through the flow path, and such that a flow rate of water flowing out of the flow path through the plurality of outlets is uniform.

8. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the duct frame includes:a duct body having an open upper portion, anda duct cover covering the open upper portion of the duct body and integrally formed with the duct body.

9. The dishwasher of claim 1, whereinthe duct is a first duct, andthe dishwasher further comprises:a sump configured to receive water within the tub, anda second duct configured to be supplied with water from the sump and to guide the supplied water to the first duct.

10. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the duct frame includes:a duct body having an open upper portion,a duct cover covering the open upper portion of the duct body,a flange including the inlet and coupled to the second duct, the flange having a hollow shape, andan inclined portion extending from the flange to the duct body and having an upwardly inclined shape.

11. The dishwasher of claim 10, wherein an inner diameter of the flange is greater than or equal to a distance along a vertical direction between an inner surface of the duct body and an inner surface of the duct cover.

12. The dishwasher of claim 10, wherein a side of the flange adjacent to the duct body is disposed below the duct cover so as not to interfere with the duct cover.

13. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the first duct is configured to be:detachably coupled to the basket,coupled to the second duct by being inserted into the tub together with the basket, anddetached from the second duct by being withdrawn from the tub together with the basket.

14. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein the duct cover is inclined downwardly to allow water collected on the duct cover to fall off the duct cover.

15. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising:a spray rotor configured to be supplied with water flowing out of the flow path through the outlet and to spray the supplied water toward tableware stored in the basket,wherein the duct includes:a first holder including the outlet and configured to rotatably support an upper portion of the spray rotor, anda second holder configured to rotatably support a lower portion of the spray rotor.

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