Dishwasher with adaptable spray system

Abstract

A dishwasher, spray system, and a method for operating a dishwasher. The spray system includes a plurality of sprayers positioned at multiple internal sides, the sprayers configured to adjustably spray water into the dishwasher. The spray system includes a pump configured to receive water at the input and pump water at the output. The spray system includes a water circulation circuit including a connection tube connecting the water circulation circuit to the output of the pump. The spray system includes one or more controllers to cause spraying by individual sprayers of the plurality of sprayers in a sequence.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] A dishwasher may include a spraying system that sprays water into a wash chamber of the dishwasher. Generally, the spraying system may lack the capabilities to thoroughly spray the entire wash chamber. Moreover, the spraying system may lack capabilities to spray a specified section of the wash chamber at a certain threshold for adaptive cleaning based on the tableware in the dishwasher. Furthermore, current filters in dishwashers often lack capabilities for effectively collecting debris within the dishwasher.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a spray system for a dishwasher including: a plurality of sprayers positioned at multiple internal sides of the dishwasher, wherein each sprayer of the plurality of sprayers is configured to adjustably spray water into the dishwasher; a pump having an input and an output, the pump configured to receive water at the input and pump water to the output; a water circulation circuit including a connection tube connecting the water circulation circuit to the output of the pump, wherein the water circulation circuit is configured to receive water from the output of the pump and to provide water at the plurality of sprayers; and one or more controllers configured to cause spraying by individual sprayers of the plurality of sprayers in a sequence.

[0003] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a spray system, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause spraying by individual sprayers of the plurality of sprayers in the sequence, are configured to: cause, during a time window, spraying by one or more first sprayers of the plurality of sprayers while one or more second sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are off.

[0004] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a spray system, wherein one or more first sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are statically positioned in a first row and one or more second sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are statically positioned in a second row, and wherein the one or more controllers, to cause spraying by individual sprayers of the plurality of sprayers in the sequence, are configured to: cause concurrent or individual spraying by at least one of the one or more first sprayers in the first row and at least one of the one or more second sprayers in the second row based on a timing cycle.

[0005] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a spray system, wherein the first row extends along a first internal side of the multiple internal sides of the dishwasher and the second row extends along a second internal side of the multiple internal sides of the dishwasher.

[0006] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a spray system, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause concurrent or individual spraying by the at least one of the one or more first sprayers in the first row and the at least one of the one or more second sprayers in the second row based on the timing cycle, are configured to: cause concurrent spraying by the one or more second sprayers in the second row and by the one or more first sprayers in the first row according to a pattern.

[0007] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a spray system, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause spraying by individual sprayers of the plurality of sprayers in the sequence, are configured to: cause, during a first time window, spraying by one or more first sprayers of the plurality of sprayers while one or more second sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are off; and cause, during a second time window, spraying by the one or more second sprayers while the one or more first sprayers are off.

[0008] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a spray system, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause spraying by individual sprayers of the plurality of sprayers in the sequence, are configured to: cause spraying by a first set of the plurality of sprayers at a first threshold and by a second set of the plurality of sprayers at a second threshold.

[0009] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a spray system, wherein the first threshold and the second threshold are the same one, or different combinations, of: pressure, angle, water concentration or mixture, liquid amount, water temperature, spray release pattern, spray type, or spray timing.

[0010] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a dishwasher, including: a wash chamber having an internal volume and configured to receive and store objects to be cleaned; a plurality of sprayers positioned at multiple internal sides of the wash chamber, wherein the sprayers are configured to spray water into the internal volume of the wash chamber; at least one pump having an input and an output, and the at least one pump configured to receive water at the input and to pump the water to the output, a water circulation circuit including a plurality of connection tubes connecting the water circulation circuit to the plurality of sprayers, wherein the water circulation circuit is configured to receive the water from the output of the at least one pump and to provide the water at the plurality of sprayers; one or more controllers configured to control dispersion of the water through the one or more controllers configured to control dispersion of the water through the connection tubes of the water circulation circuit to deliver the water to desired sprayers, of the plurality of sprayers, to cause the desired sprayers to spray water to a selective portion of the wash chamber in a sequence; and a filter positioned adjacent to a bottom internal side of the wash chamber, the filter including: a liquid filtration component configured to filter water received at the liquid filtration component for at least one of: reuse by the water circulation circuit or removal from the wash chamber; and a debris collection component configured to catch debris in the water received at the liquid filtration component.

[0011] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a dishwasher, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause desired sprayers to sprayer water in a sequence, are configured to: cause, during a time window, spraying by one or more first sprayers of the plurality of sprayers while one or more second sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are off.

[0012] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a dishwasher, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause desired sprayers to sprayer water in a sequence, are configured to: cause, during a first time window, spraying by one or more first sprayers of the plurality of sprayers while one or more second sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are off; and cause, during a second time window, spraying by the one or more second sprayers while the one or more first sprayers are off.

[0013] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a dishwasher, wherein a group of the plurality of sprayers are statically positioned in a row that extends along one of the multiple internal sides.

[0014] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a dishwasher, wherein the sprayers are statically positioned in respective rows extending along the bottom internal side, a left internal side, a right internal side, and a top internal side of the wash chamber.

[0015] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a dishwasher, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause desired sprayers to sprayer water in a sequence, are configured to: cause spraying by sprayers, of the plurality of sprayers, in a row of the respective rows in an ascending or descending cycle.

[0016] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a dishwasher, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause desired sprayers to sprayer water in a sequence, are configured to: cause spraying by a first set of the plurality of sprayers at a first threshold and by a second set of the plurality of sprayers at a second threshold.

[0017] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method for operating a dishwasher including a wash chamber having an internal volume defined by a plurality of internal sides, the method including: causing, by one or more controllers, a water intake valve to open to provide water into a pump; causing, by the one or more controllers, the water to pump from the pump into a water circulation circuit; initiating, by the one or more controllers, a cycle of dispersion of the water through at least one connection tube of the water circulation circuit to the plurality of sprayers positioned at multiple internal sides of the plurality of internal sides of the wash chamber, wherein initiation of the cycle of dispersion of the water causes spraying of the plurality of sprayers in a sequence; and causing, by the one or more controllers, a water export valve to open to direct the water sprayed by the plurality of sprayers into the wash chamber for at least one of: reuse of the water by the water circulation circuit, or removal of the water out of the wash chamber.

[0018] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein spraying of the plurality of sprayers in the sequence includes: spraying, during a time window, by one or more first sprayers of the plurality of sprayers while one of more second sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are off.

[0019] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein spraying of the plurality of the sprayers in the sequence includes: spraying the water from the plurality of sprayers to a selective portion of the wash chamber at a threshold.

[0020] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, further including: initiating, by the one or more controllers, an additional cycle of dispersion of the water through the at least one connection tube of the water circulation circuit to the plurality of sprayers; and causing, by the one or more controllers, spraying the water from the plurality of sprayers to a second selective portion of the wash chamber at a different threshold based on the additional cycle of dispersion.

[0021] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein causing the water export valve to open includes causing the water export valve to open to direct the water to the water circulation circuit for reuse of the water by the water circulation circuit.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Various objects, aspects, features, and advantages of the disclosure will become more apparent and better understood by referring to the detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and / or structurally similar elements.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a front view of the internal wash chamber of the dishwasher, according to an example implementation.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a front and cross-sectional view of the internal wash chamber of the dishwasher, according to an example implementation.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a bottom internal side of the wash chamber of the dishwasher, according to an example implementation.

[0026] FIG. 4 is a side view of sprayers, according to an example implementation.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a diagram of a water circulation circuit of the dishwasher, according to an example implementation.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of a filter of the dishwasher, according to an example implementation.

[0029] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram for a method of washing using the dishwasher, according to an example implementation.

[0030] FIG. 8 is a representation of the implementation of a spray system, according to an example implementation.

[0031] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of a sprayer layout of the dishwasher, according to an example implementation.

[0032] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a sprayer layout of the dishwasher, according to an example implementation.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Implementations disclosed herein provide systems, apparatuses, and methods for a dishwashing machine and spraying systems.

[0034] Additionally, the present disclosure is directed towards improvements for cleaning time, cleaning area coverage, cleaning efficiency, resource consumption, filtering, and energy consumption, among other improvements. Further, the present disclosure presents technical improvements of a spraying system and filtering to promote improved washing performance, efficient use of the dishwasher, and reduced water consumption.

[0035] Often dishwashers have limited spray coverage. In conventional dishwashers, spraying systems include a spray arm that provides limited spray coverage. Additionally, not all tableware and other items are dishwasher-safe, such as certain plastics and delicate glassware, often because of the limitations of current spray systems. Current dishwashers also need regular maintenance to prevent issues like clogs and buildup, and sometimes, they may not completely remove food residues, necessitating pre-rinsing or additional cleaning. Current filters can accumulate debris and clog, create odors, reduce efficiency, damage pump systems, and can require difficult maintenance. Often dishwashers spray from the bottom of the wash tub, such as through a spinning spray arm, preventing efficient spraying to tableware throughout the dishwasher. For example, conventional dishwashers with spinning spray arms lack adaptable spraying capabilities and can result in limited spray coverage, clogs in the spray arm holes, reduced spray pressure, water pooling from non-functioning holes or sprayers, leaks, consistent upkeep, and physical damage to the arm.

[0036] The dishwasher described herein includes a technical improvement of having a number of sprayers capable of being positioned throughout the dishwasher. For example, the sprayers can be positioned anywhere at any internal wall of the dishwasher. The sprayers can be arranged in rows positioned at any internal wall or at multiple (e.g., four) internal walls. For example, the sprayers may be positioned in multiple (e.g., four) rows of multiple (e.g., four) sprayers at any internal wall. The multiple (e.g., four) rows of multiple (e.g., four) sprayers may be positioned at a top wall, left wall, right wall, back wall, and bottom wall. The capability of sprayers to be positioned anywhere at multiple internal walls provides for an improvement in spray coverage, being able to spray the internal volume of the dishwasher at any angle or orientation. Additionally, the sprayers being positioned at or integrated into the walls of the dishwasher allows for increased wash chamber area for placing tableware. The positioning of the sprayers provides form improvement in spraying system efficiencies as there is less likelihood for a sprayer position at or integrated into walls to be damaged or malfunction from operating the dishwasher. Additionally, the ability to compartmentalize a spray cycle and have sprayers direct spraying to specified regions of the dishwasher allows for an improvement in resource utility, as customized spray cycles can decrease the amount of resource consumption (e.g., water, cleaning liquids) while providing a superior clean and decreased cleaning time.

[0037] Additionally, the dishwasher and spray systems include technical improvements directed to adjustable and dynamic spray patterns. Having multiple sprayers positioned throughout the dishwasher allows for dynamic spray systems. In some implementations, the sprayers can spray different sections of the wash chamber. Additionally, the controller is capable of sending instructions to the sprayers to spray according to different patterns, timings, pressures, angles, liquid types, liquid amounts, temperatures, spray dispersions, etc. For example, a sprayer in one row can be programmed to spray a focused jet spray pattern at a high pressure directed towards a selective portion of the wash chamber that may have dishes with heavy stains, while another sprayer of another row can be programmed to concurrently spray a mist spray at glasses at a different selective portion of the wash chamber, allowing for versatile and adaptable cleaning improvements.

[0038] Additionally, technical improvements directed towards filtering are described herein. The dishwasher may include a filter with improved filtering capabilities and disposal mechanisms. That is, the filter and its components can include release mechanisms to releasably couple from the dishwasher or other filter components for manual disposal of collected debris, creating an improvement in drainage and preventing dishwasher clogs and buildup. Additionally, the improvements to the filter can allow for a water recycling system that captures and filters rinse water for reuse, thereby achieving reduced water consumption.

[0039] Referring generally to the FIGURES, a dishwasher with compartmentalized cleaning capabilities is shown, according to some implementations.

[0040] FIG. 1 shows a front view of an example dishwasher 100, FIG. 2 shows a front and cross-sectional view of the dishwasher 100 (containing tableware), and FIG. 3 shows a top perspective view of a bottom internal side of a wash chamber 102 of the dishwasher 100. While reference will be made to dishwasher 100, it should be understood that the description and implementations of dishwasher 100 are provided as an example and may also be extended into other implementations. In some implementations, the dishwasher 100 can include the following, or any combination of the following: wash chamber 102, pump 104, connection tubes 106, sprayers 110, filter 600, liquid filtration component 610, debris collection component 608, water export valve 120, heating element 125, power supply 130, water intake valve 135, internal sides 140, outer walls 150, water circulation circuit 145, controller 202, and / or liquid dispenser 204. The dishwasher 100 is designed to be adaptable in structure and / or orientation.

[0041] In some implementations, the dishwasher 100 includes a wash chamber 102 that provides an enclosure and a main interior space of the dishwasher 100 where objects, such as tableware (e.g., dishes, utensils, cookware, etc.), are placed for cleaning, and in which a wash cycle of the dishwasher 100 takes place. Heating element 125, power supply 130, filter 600, liquid dispenser 204, water circulation circuit 145, and / or pump 104 may be positioned outside of the wash chamber 102 (e.g., below the wash chamber 102). The dishwasher 100 may include a door (not shown) that provides access into the wash chamber 102 to allow objects to be placed into and removed from the wash chamber 102. The wash chamber 102 is defined by outer walls 150 and internal sides 140. In some implementations, tableware can be placed within the wash chamber 102, such as on racks (not shown) within the wash chamber 102. The internal sides 140 can be made of material such as stainless steel or durable plastic designed to withstand repeated use, high temperatures, and cleaning solutions. Outer walls 150 and internal sides 140 can have a gap where water circulation circuit 145, connection tubes 106, and / or heating element 125 can be located. In some implementations, sprayers 110 or other objects (e.g., connection tubes 106, sensors, electrical lines etc.) can be connected to, placed between, within, adjacent to, and / or on the internal sides 140 and outer walls 150.

[0042] In some implementations, the dishwasher 100 includes a pump 104. The pump 104 can include an input and an output. Pump 104 may be configured to receive a liquid (e.g., water and / or cleaning liquid) at the input of the pump 104 and pump the liquid to the output of the pump 104. According to some implementations, the input of the pump 104 may be connected to a water input line 132 for water input. The output of the pump 104 may be connected to water circulation circuit 145. Flow through the input of the pump 104 may be controlled by water intake valve 135. The water intake valve 135 is configured to allow a selective amount of water from the water input line 132 into the pump 104 for circulation. In some implementations, the input of the pump 104 is coupled to a liquid dispenser 204. The liquid dispenser 204 is configured to allow a selective amount of liquid from the wash chamber 102 into the pump 104. According to some implementations, the input of the pump 104 and output of the pump 104 can be controlled by controller 202. The controller 202 can be configured to control dispersion of the water into the pump 104 and control dispersion of water or liquid through the output of the pump 104 to the water circulation circuit 145 and connected components (e.g., connection tubes 106, and / or sprayers 110).

[0043] In some implementations, the pump 104 can be used to circulate liquid at different pressures by adjusting several factors. For example, the pump 104 can use pump 104 speed to circulate liquid at different pressures (i.e., the speed in which the pump 104 operates can be adjusted to control the pressure). Further, the pump 104 can contain or have an adjustable output that allows for liquid to be output at different rates, such as a higher or lower flow rate. Additionally, the pump 104 may also contain pressure regulation valves to maintain a desired pressure level and can automatically adjust the flow and pressure. The pump 104 may pump water through a spray system of the dishwasher 100. The pump 104 may pump liquid and debris out of the dishwasher 100. The pump 104 may be in fluid communication with filter 600. In some implementations, the input of the pump 104 can be in fluid communication with filter 600. For example, filter may have liquid filtration component 610 that takes in liquid from the wash chamber 102 and channels the liquid to the pump 104 for recirculation or reuse of the liquid by the pump 104 and water circulation circuit 145.

[0044] In some implementations, the dishwasher 100 may include a water circulation circuit 145. According to some implementations, the water circulation circuit 145 is a collection of tubes (e.g., connection tubes 106) providing liquid to sprayers 110 of the dishwasher 100. Sprayers 110 can be positioned at multiple internal sides 140 of the dishwasher 100, and the water circulation circuit 145 provides for liquid to be sent through the pump 104 to sprayers 110. The water circulation circuit 145 can provide water to a single sprayer 110, or multiple sprayers 110 via connection tubes 106. The connection tubes 106 can be connected to the pump 104 in any matter, such as barbed fittings, compression fittings, quick-connect fittings, clamping, etc. The water circulation circuit 145 and connection tubes 106 can be positioned within the internal sides 140 of the dishwasher 100 (i.e., are not exposed to the wash chamber 102), integrated within the internal sides 140 of the dishwasher 100, or positioned on or adjacent to the internal sides 140 of the dishwasher 100. The water circulation circuit 145 and connection tubes 106 will be further described in relation to FIG. 5.

[0045] In some implementations, the dishwasher 100 may include sprayers 110. Sprayers 110 are configured to spray liquid into the internal volume of the wash chamber 102. A sprayer 110 can be connected to connection tube(s) 106 and connected to a connection tube 106 in any manner, such as barbed fittings, compression fittings, quick-connect fittings, etc. Sprayers 110 can be positioned at multiple internal sides 140 of the dishwasher 100 and / or sprayers 110 are statically positioned to the walls of the dishwasher 100 (e.g., the sprayers 110 do not rotate or otherwise change position relative to the wash chamber 102). That is, sprayers 110 can be fixed in place and do not move during the wash cycle. A sprayer 110 can be positioned adjacent to an internal side 140 of the dishwasher 100 (e.g., positioned at a corner of or directly next to an internal side 140). Additionally, a sprayer 110 can be positioned on an internal side 140 of the dishwasher 100. Further, a sprayer 110 can be positioned within an internal side 140 of the dishwasher 100. That is, a sprayer 110 and its connected connection tube 106 can be placed on the wash chamber-exposed side of an internal side 140, or integrated into the internal side 140, as shown and further discussed in relation to FIG. 4.

[0046] In some implementations, the dishwasher 100 can include a filter 600. Often, conventional filters in a dishwasher 100 allow for redepositing debris on the dishes contained in the dishwasher 100. The filter 600 can trap debris (e.g., food particles, grease, other debris, etc.) to prevent such debris from recirculating through the dishwasher 100. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the filter 600 can be positioned adjacent to a bottom internal side 140 of the wash chamber 102. In some implementations, a filter 600 can include a liquid filtration component 610 and a debris collection component 608. Additional components of a filter will be further described in relation to FIG. 6.

[0047] In some implementations, the dishwasher 100 can include a water export valve 120 configured to prevent the dishwasher 100 from overfilling with water. The water export valve 120 can include a buoyant device (e.g., a water export) and a switch mechanism. As water enters the dishwasher 100, the water export rises with the water level. When the water export reaches a certain height, the water export can trigger the switch, which can shut off a water inlet valve (e.g., water intake valve 135). In some implementations, the water export valve 120 is positioned at an internal side 140 of the dishwasher 100, (e.g., bottom internal side).

[0048] In some implementations, the dishwasher 100 can include a heating element 125. The heating element 125 can be used to heat the water circulating in the dishwasher 100. The heating element 125 can be positioned at an internal side 140 of the dishwasher 100, such as the bottom internal side. Heating element 125 can be positioned outside of the wash chamber 102 underneath the bottom internal side 140 of the dishwasher 100, adjacent to the connection tubes 106 of the water circulation circuit 145, and / or adjacent to the input or output of the pump 104. For example, the heating element 125 can be positioned adjacent to the pump 104 to heat water input into the pump 104 or output to the water circulation circuits 145. In some implementations, the heating element 125 heats the water at the input of the pump 104, such as at the water intake valve 135. The heating element 125 can heat the water at the output of the pump 104, such as at the beginning of the water circulation circuits 145. In some implementations, the heating element 125 can be positioned within the internal side 140 and outer wall 150 of the dishwasher 100 adjacent to the water circulation circuit 145 and connection tubes 106. In some implementations, both the heating element 125 and water circulation circuit 145 and connection tubes 106 can be positioned between the internal side 140 and outer wall 150. In this example arrangement, the heating element 125 can heat liquid within the connection tubes 106 anywhere within the dishwasher 100. In this example implementation, the water can be heated at any desired location of the dishwasher 100, which can provide for spraying of liquid through sprayers 110 at different temperatures throughout the dishwasher 100.

[0049] Dishwasher 100 can include a power supply 130. In some implementations, power supply 130 can supply electrical power to components of the dishwasher 100. For example, the power supply 130 can supply power to the controller 202 for sending and receiving dishwasher 100 operations. For example, power supply 130 can provide electricity to heat the heating element 125. For example, the power supply can provide electricity to pumps and valves for operation (e.g., pump 104, water export valve 120). In some implementations, the pumps (e.g., pump 104) and valves (e.g., water export valve, nozzles of sprayers 110) contain sensors connected to the power supply 130 for operation.

[0050] In some implementations, the dishwasher 100 contains one or more controllers 202, which may be multiple controllers 202, but will be referred to as a single controller 202 for the remainder of the description. The controller 202 can include one or more processors and can contain or be configured to implement instructions relating to managing and optimizing the operation of various dishwasher components. For example, the controller 202 can control or cause operations of a water intake valve 135, circulation pump (e.g., pump 104), sprayers 110, heating element 125, etc. The controller 202 can include a microprocessor unit (MPU) to execute pre-programmed instructions to control dishwasher operations. In some implementations, the controller 202 can receive input signals from various sensors and / or user interfaces, can process the data, and can send control signals to the dishwasher components. That is, the controller 202 can be configured to control dispersion of a liquid through the connection tubes 106 of the water circulation circuits 145 to deliver the water to desired sprayers 110. In some implementations, the controller 202 can be configured to cause spraying by individual sprayers 110 of the plurality of sprayers 110 in a sequence.

[0051] The dishwasher 100 can include a liquid dispenser 204. In some implementations, the liquid dispenser 204 can be located beneath the wash chamber 102 of the dishwasher 100 or within a door (not shown). Liquids used by the liquid dispenser 204 include, but are not limited to, dishwasher detergent, soap, rinse aid, dishwasher cleaner, vinegar, descaling agents, water and / or any other liquid that may be used in a dishwasher. The liquid dispenser 204 can contain a container for storing one or more liquids. In some implementations, the liquid dispenser 204 is accessible by a user for filling up the liquid dispenser 204 with liquid. The liquid dispenser 204 can be connected (such as through a tube) to a source external to the dishwasher 100 that inputs liquid into the liquid dispenser 204. The liquid dispenser 204 can include pump 104 to pump the liquid to the dishwasher 100 or other component of the dishwasher 100. The liquid dispenser 204 can contain any mechanism for dispensing liquid, including but not limited to a sprayer, nozzle, piston mechanism, adjustable knob, bottle adapters, inlet tubes, valves, springless valves, etc. The liquid dispenser 204 can dispense liquid directly into the wash chamber 102. For example, during a cycle, sprayers 110 can spray water or other liquids into the wash chamber 102, and the liquid dispenser 204 can dispense the liquid directly into the wash chamber 102. That is, for example, while sprayers 110 may be spraying water into the wash chamber 102, the liquid dispenser may be dispensing liquid such as detergent onto tableware within the wash chamber 102. Additionally, the liquid dispenser 204 can be connected to other components of the dishwasher 100, such as the pump 104 or connection tubes 106 of the water circulation circuit 145. In some implementations, the liquid dispenser 204 can provide liquid into pump 104 or connection tubes 106 of a water circulation circuit such that sprayers 110 can spray a combination of water and liquid into the wash chamber 102.

[0052] FIG. 4 shows side views of various example sprayer configurations. In some implementations, sprayers 110 can be stationary to their position (e.g., non-rotating or otherwise lacking the ability to move with respect to the wash chamber 102). The spray heads of a sprayer 110 can utilize an iris-like design, as described herein. For example, a sprayer 110 can include an adjustable nozzle that can change the spay pattern and flow rate. The adjustable heads allow for different spray projections or patterns, as shown in FIG. 4. Some spray patterns or dispersions include, but are not limited to, jet, soaker, flat, cone, angled (e.g., 0 degree, 15 degree, 25 degree, 40 degree, 65 degree), mist, full, shower, and others. The sprayers 110 are configured to allow for their spray patterns to be adjusted (e.g., manually or automatically by the controller 202). Sprayers 110 can spray at any dispersion angle. Sprayers 110 can have various head shapes, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0053] The different spray patterns allow for the dishwasher 100 to accommodate tableware that are traditionally unable to be washed in a dishwasher. For example, the ability to spray at lower heat or weaker sprays allows for fine china, delicate glassware, sharp knives, wooden utensils, cutting boards, and other tableware that are affected by the high pressure and liquid temperate used in a dishwasher. As shown by example 410, a sprayer 110 can be configured to spray in a jet pattern, wherein the spray is high pressure with low dispersion, to concentrate in a specified area. This jet spray pattern can be used for targeting specific tableware or removing stubborn dirt. In some implementations, the sprayer 110 can be adjusted to spray at a mist projection. As shown by example 430, sprayer 110 can be configured to spray a fine mist for watering delicate tableware that may be traditionally unable to be cleaned in a dishwasher. Additionally, the sprayer 110 can be adjusted to spray at a shower projection. As shown by example 420, sprayer 110 can have a medium or low pressure and medium or low dispersion, resembling a gentle rain shower. Additionally, the sprayer 110 can be adjusted to spray at a flat spray or projection. For example, the flat spray can be a wide, flat spray useful for covering large areas quickly. Additionally, the sprayer 110 can be adjusted to spray at a cone projection. For example, the sprayer 110 can spray water in a cone shape for a broader coverage area.

[0054] Sprayers 110 can be positioned on, at or integrated into any internal side 140 of the dishwasher 100. That is, sprayers 110 can be positioned in rows along the internal sides 140 of the wash chamber 102. Sprayers 110 can be positioned in any number of rows along the internal sides 140 of the wash chamber 102. In some implementations, sprayers 110 can be positioned in multiple rows (e.g., three rows, four rows, five rows, etc.) at an internal side 140 of the wash chamber 102. A row may include one or more (e.g., multiple) sprayers 110. Sprayers 110 can be positioned with multiple (e.g., four) sprayers 110 in a row. The connection tubes 106 can each connect to multiple sprayers 110. For example, a single connection tube 106 can connect to all of the sprayers 110 in one row. In some implementations, a connection tube 106 can connect to every sprayer 110 in the dishwasher 100. That is, there can be a dedicated connection tube 106 for each sprayer 110.

[0055] Connection tube(s) 106 connected to the sprayer 110 can additionally be positioned on, within, and / or outside the wash chamber 102. As shown by example 450 a sprayer 110 can be positioned on the wash chamber 102 side of the internal side 140, without extending into the internal side 140. As shown by example 470, a sprayer 110 can be positioned partially integrated into the internal side 140. In such implementations, connection tube 106 connected to the sprayer can be positioned on the wash chamber side of the internal side 140. As shown by example 460, sprayer 110 can be integrated into the internal side 140 such that only the emitter opening of the sprayer 110 is exposed to the wash chamber 102.

[0056] In some implementations, a sprayer 110 may include one or more valves and / or nozzles to control a pattern and / or a rate of flow through sprayers 110. A sprayer 110 may include an adjustable nozzle having an iris-like design. For example, a sprayer 110 can include an adjustable nozzle that can change the spay pattern and flow rate of the sprayer 110, similar to how an iris diaphragm in a camera lens adjusts the aperture. This design can allow for a precise control over the spray, making spray patterns adjustable with different pressures, concentrations, spray timings, spray patterns, or a combination thereof. For example, a first adjustment of the nozzle may cause the sprayer 110 to spray a liquid as a low-pressured mist, and a second adjustment of the nozzle may cause the sprayer 110 to spray the liquid as a high-pressured concentrated spray. The nozzle can be opened and closed to spray in a first pattern and pressure and then in a second pattern and pressure at a specified interval or timing. According to some implementations, sprayers 110 can be configured to interact with other component of the dishwasher 100 (e.g., water circulation circuit 145, connection tubes 106, pump 104, controller 202, etc.) to spray water into the wash chamber 102 in a sequence.

[0057] In some implementations, sprayers 110 are adjustable (e.g., adjustable sprayer heads) to spray at distinct angles (e.g., 0°, 15°, 25°, 40°, 65°). The head of a sprayer 110 can include a flexible iris to allow it to open and close, to shift between a narrow, focused stream and a broad, diffused spray pattern. The flexible sprayer heads provide spraying capabilities to clean various types of tableware from delicate, precise cleaning for smaller or fragile tableware to more aggressive sprays for large or heavily soiled pots and pans.

[0058] For example, a sprayer head can spray at a focused spray (e.g., 0° angle). That is, the sprayer can spray a high-pressure, concentrated stream of liquid (e.g., water, soap, cleaning liquid, or any combination thereof). Further, the focused spray may be used for directly targeting tough, baked-on food particles, grease, and / or stubborn stains. That is, the focused spray can dislodge stubborn stains or baked on residue, particularly from items that may have been unwashed for extended periods. Additionally, the concentrated stream can enhance a cleaning agent's (e.g., soap, detergent, cleaning liquid, cleaning pod) cleaning action. That is the focused spray can spray the cleaning agent or water onto tableware containing a cleaning agent at a pressure high enough for the cleaning agent to activate. That is, the stream can help penetrate and loosen tough debris without dilution. For example, the dishwasher 100 can dispense a cleaning agent (e.g., through sprayers, detergent dispenser, etc.) onto tableware. The sprayer 110 can then spray at a concentrated stream across the entire tableware to expose the entire area of the tableware to the cleaning agent and spray. Additionally, sprayers 110 can be adjusted (such as through a controller 202) to adjust the angle of direction of the spray, which can additionally spray liquid at an angle as discussed above, as to completely cover spraying any area of the dishwasher 100. For example, a sprayer 110 positioned at a top side of a dishwasher 100 can be angled to spray towards the door side of the dishwasher 100 to spray plates below at a pressurized stream (e.g., 0° angle), and the sprayer 110 can change an angle based on the indicated wash cycle to be angled towards the back of the dishwasher 100 to spray glasses at a mist angle (e.g., 65° angle).

[0059] In some arrangements, a sprayer head can spray at a gentle focused spray (e.g., 15° angle). That is, the sprayer 110 can spray a slightly diffused spray of liquid. Additionally, the gentle focused spray can balance direct pressure with broad coverage, being concentrated enough to tackle soiled dishes and gentle enough to avoid damage. The gentle focused spray can additionally activate a cleaning agent on a surface of tableware to remove particles. That is, the focused spray can dislodge stubborn stains or baked on residue and activate a cleaning agent in addition to casting a wider spray to spray a larger portion of tableware and causing an even distribution of detergent.

[0060] In some arrangements, a sprayer head can spray at a medium diffuse spray (e.g., 25 degree angle). That is, the sprayer 110 can spray a wider and slightly more diffused spray, increasing coverage while maintaining moderate pressure. A medium diffuse spray can be used to cleaning a range of dishes and washing multiple items at one. The medium diffuse spray can promote a uniform clean without excessive detergent waste.

[0061] In some arrangements, a sprayer head can spray at a gentle spray (e.g., 40 degree angle). That is, the sprayer can produce a gentler spray designed to clean fragile items (e.g., glassware, china, delicate utensils). The gentle spray can allow for even detergent distribution for use on a variety of fragile dishware. In some arrangements, a sprayer head can spray at a broad, softer spray (e.g., 65 degree angle). The broad spray can spray to utilize a wide coverage of spray area, including spraying large, shallow items and large dishes. The broad spray can also be applied to when sprayers 110 are spraying an additional liquid, such as soap or detergent. The broad spray capability of the sprayer head can allow for the sprayer 110 to broadly spray liquid across a large portion of the wash tub (e.g., evenly coat a large section of the wash tub with soap). The broad spray of the sprayer 110 can spray wide enough to allow all surfaces to be covered (e.g., coated with detergent), including areas such as inside bowls or cups.

[0062] Referring now to FIG. 5, a diagram of a water circulation circuit 145 of the dishwasher 100 is shown, according to an example implementation. The water circulation circuit 145 and connected components can include, but are not limited to, sprayers 110, connection tubes 106, pump 104, water intake valve 135, water input line 132, controller 202, or liquid dispenser 204, among other components. In some implementations, the water circulation circuit 145 can include the combination of connection tubes 106 and sprayers 110. That is, there can be a connection tube 106 for each individual sprayer 110. That is, there is a connection tube 106 that can carry liquid from the pump 104 to a sprayer 110 without cross-talk with any other connection tube 106 or sprayer 110. Further, this arrangement can allow for liquid to be sent from the pump 104 to an individual sprayer 110 at a customized flow rate or spray type. which can include, but is not limited to, any combination of pressure, liquid amount, temperature, etc. In some implementations, a connection tube 106 can be connected to multiple sprayers 110. For example, a connection tube 106 connected to the pump 104 can provide water to multiple sprayers 110 in a row connected at an internal side 140 of the dishwasher 100.

[0063] In some implementations, a pump 104 is connected to the water circulation circuit 145. The pump 104 can contain internal components that, when instructed by the controller 202 or other device, can selectively provide liquid at specified variables to specific connection tubes 106. For example, the pump 104 can provide a first liquid combination (e.g., combination of liquid from water input line 132 and liquid dispenser 204) at a first pressure, first temperature, first liquid amount, etc. to a first connection tube and provide a second liquid combination at a second pressure, second temperature, second temperature amount, etc. to a second connection tube, allowing for sprayers 110 connected to the different connection tubes 106 to spray at different thresholds (e.g., any combination of pressure, angle, water concentration or mixture, liquid amount, water temperature, spray release pattern, spray type, or spray timing). The pump can have similar or additional inputs as described above in relation to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3.

[0064] In some implementations, the pump 104 can be connected to controller 202. The controller 202 can manage the spraying system by sending instructions to the pump 104. For example, a controller 202 can cause adjustments to pump speed to maintain or change flow rates to the connection tubes 106. Additionally, the controller 202 can cause starting or stopping of the pump 104 based on pressure thresholds to maintain optimal pressure for sprayers 110, liquid dispenser 204, etc. The controller 202 can cause temperature regulation by controlling the heating element 125. Additionally, the controller 202 can cause the pump 104 to operate at specific times, creating timing cycles for liquid circulation. That is, the controller 202 can cause opening and closing of the water intake valve 135 based on system requirements. Further, the controller 202 can send and receive data from other controllers or devices. For example, a controller 202 can receive signals from a control panel of the dishwasher 100 or from a user device via a connected app. In some implementations, the controller 202 can be preprogrammed with cycles to cause spraying by any combination of sprayers 110 in a sequence.

[0065] Referring now to FIG. 6, a filter 600 is shown. In some implementations, the filter 600 can include, but is not limited to a filter base 602, a filter top 604, an indicator 606, a debris collection component 608, a liquid filtration component 610, and / or a release mechanism 620. Filter 600 can have similar functions, structure, and connections as discussed in regards to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3. In some implementations, the filter 600 is placed at the bottom side 140 of the dishwasher 100. That is, the filter 600 can be integrated into the bottom side 140 of the dishwasher 100 or placed on top of or adjacent to the bottom side.

[0066] In some implementations, the filter 600 can include a filter base 602. The filter base 602 can integrate a catch basin, vent screen, and / or mesh screen. For example, the filter base 602 can include a perforated grate that allows water to pass through (e.g., pass through to the liquid filtration component 610 for output to a water line or back to pump 104). That is, the filter base 602 is the collection of walls to define an internal volume. The walls can be grated to allow debris to pass into the filter 600. In some implementations, the walls are solid so as to keep debris in, such as when the filter 600 is positioned into the bottom side of the dishwasher 100, leaving only the filter top 604 exposed to the wash chamber 102. In some implementations, only the filter top 604 is grated or has a mesh design to allow debris to pass through into the internal volume of the filter 600 for removal. The filter base 602 can connect to or provide an inlet to a debris collection component 608 for removal of debris. Additionally, the filter base 602 can connect to or provide an inlet to a liquid filtration component. In some implementations, the bottom surface of the filter base 602 is angled from the sides of the bottom surface to the middle of the bottom surface (e.g., forming a funnel shape) to allow debris and liquid to fall into the middle of the bottom surface for collection or to the entrance to a debris collection component 608 or liquid filtration component 610.

[0067] The filter 600 can include a filter top 604. In some implementations, the filter top 604 can include a grate design, mesh or otherwise perforated design to allow debris and liquid to pass through. The design of the filter top 604 can allow for debris, such as food, particles, grease, soap scum, plastic, broken tableware, and other debris to enter into the filter base 602. The filter top 604 can be perforated to allow in debris from the dishwasher 100 into the filter 600 or filter base 602). Additionally, the filter top 604 can include release mechanisms 620 for releasing the filter top 604 from the rest of the filter 600 to allow for disposal of collected debris.

[0068] In some implementations, the filter 600 can include a debris collection component 608 to provide a volume for debris to build up. As shown in FIG. 6, the debris collection component 608 can be a container or similar type of collection area. The debris collection component 608 can define the internal volume of the filter 600. In some implementations, the user can access the debris collection component 608 for disposal of debris. For example, the debris collection component 608 can include a release mechanism 620 than can provide for access to the collected debris. The debris collection component 608 can include a self-cleaning mechanism, wherein one of sprayers in the dishwasher 100 can flush out collected debris. The debris collection component 608 can be connected to any other component of the filter 600. In some implementations, the debris collection component 608 can be connected to the filter base 602, or liquid filtration component 610.

[0069] The filter 600 can include a liquid filtration component 610 to collect liquid entering filter 600. The liquid filtration component 610 can connect to other components of the dishwasher 100 for re-circulation of liquid. For example, the liquid filtration component 610 can connect to pump 104 or water circulation circuit 145 for re-use of liquid used by the dishwasher 100. That is, as the dishwasher 100 runs, liquid sprayed from sprayers 110 into the dishwasher 100 can release debris from tableware contained within the dishwasher 100. The debris and liquid can flow to filter 600, and the debris can collect in filter base 602 or debris collection component 608. The liquid can flow to the liquid filtration component 610 which filters the liquid in the filter 600 and sends the liquid to other components of the dishwasher 100 (e.g., pump 104, water circulation circuit 145, water export valve 120, etc.) or out of the dishwasher 100.

[0070] In some implementations, the filter top 604, filter base 602, and / or debris collection component 608 can include at least one release mechanism 620. In some implementations, the release mechanism 620 can be used to release the filter 600, filter top 604, filter base 602, and / or debris collection component 608 from the dishwasher 100 or other components of the filter 600 for removal of debris. The release mechanism 620 can be any one of a twist lock, clip or latch, push and turn, screw lock, slide lock, lift and lock, bayonet mount, magnetic lock, or any other release mechanism to allow the filter 600 and related components to be removed for cleaning and maintenance. The release mechanism 620 can allow for the filter 600, filter top 604, filter base 602, and / or debris collection component 608 to releasably couple one or more of these components from the other components or dishwasher 100 for cleaning, disposal, or maintenance.

[0071] In some implementations, the filter 600 can include an indicator 606. The indicator can be connected to any component of the filter 600. For example, the indicator 606 can be connected to the filter top 604, filter base 602, debris collection component 608, or liquid filtration component 610. In some implementations, the indicator 606 can include an indicator light, display, or signals that indicate messages regarding the status of the filter 600. For example, the indicator 606 could include a light that displays a certain color depending on how full the filter 600 is. The indicator 606 can include a screen that displays the filter status. In some implementations, the indicator 606 is a sensor that can communicate with other devices to indicate the status of the filter 600. For example, the indicator 606 may be configured to detect the amount of debris collected in the filter 600 and send a signal to a light or display on a control panel of the dishwasher 100 that may illuminate when the filter 600 needs attention or display a message to the user.

[0072] FIG. 7 depicts a flowchart of a method 700 for operating a dishwasher (e.g., dishwasher 100), according to some implementations. In some implementations, the method 700 may be performed by the dishwasher 100.

[0073] In a broad overview of method 700, at block 702, one or more controllers (e.g., controller 202) can cause opening a water intake valve to provide water into pump 104. At block 704, the one or more controllers 202 can cause the water to pump from the pump 104 into a water circulation circuit 145. At block 706, the one or more controllers 202 can initiate a cycle of dispersion of the water through a connection tube 106 of the water circulation circuit 145 to at least one sprayer 110. At block 708, the one or more controllers 202 can cause opening of a water export valve 120. In some implementations, some, or all operations of method 700 may be performed by one or more controllers 202 executing on one or more computing devices, systems, or servers local or remote to the dishwasher 100. In various implementations, each operation may be re-ordered, added, removed, or repeated.

[0074] At block 702, the one or more controllers 202 can cause a water intake valve 135 to open to provide water into pump 104. For example, water input line 132 can be connected to water intake valve 135, and the one or more controllers 202 can determine when to allow the water intake valve 135 to open depending on predetermined or inputted instructions.

[0075] At block 704, the one or more controllers 202 can cause pumping of the water from the pump 104 into a water circulation circuit 145. For example, the one or more controllers 202 can instruct the pump 104 to selectively provide liquid at specified variables to specific connection tubes 106. For example, the pump 104 can provide a first liquid combination (e.g., combination of liquid from water intake valve 135 and liquid dispenser 204) at a first pressure, first temperature, first liquid amount, etc. to a first connection tube 106 and provide a second liquid combination at a second pressure, second temperature, second temperature amount, etc. to a second connection tube 106, allowing for sprayers 110 connected to the different connection tubes 106 to spray at different thresholds. The pump 104 can have similar or additional inputs as described above in relation to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3. In some implementations, the controller 202 can manage the spraying system by sending instructions to the pump 104. For example, a controller 202 can cause adjustments to pump 104 speed to maintain or change flow rates to the connection tubes 106. Additionally, the controller 202 can cause starting or stopping of the pump 104 based on pressure thresholds to maintain optimal pressure for sprayers 110, liquid dispenser 204, etc. In some implementations, the controller 202 can cause temperature regulation by being connected to a heating element 125 connected to or adjacent to the pump 104, connection tubes 106, sprayers 110, etc. The controller 202 can cause the pump 104 to operate at specific times, creating timing cycles for liquid circulation. Additionally, the controller 202 can cause opening and closing of the water intake valve 135 based on system requirements. The controller 202 can send and receive data from other controllers 202 or devices. For example, a controller 202 can receive signals from a control panel or connected app. In some implementations, the controller 202 can be preprogrammed with cycles to cause spraying by any combination of sprayers 110 in a sequence.

[0076] At block 706, the one or more controllers 202 can initiate a cycle of dispersion of the water through at least one connection tube 106 of the water circulation circuit 145 to at least one sprayer 110. In some implementations, the cycle of dispersion of the water can include spraying water from the at least one sprayer 110 in a sequence. The one or more controllers 202 at block 706 can initiate an additional cycle of dispersion. According to some implementations, the sequence can include the one or more controller 202 to cause, during a time window, one or more first sprayers 110 to be on while one or more second sprayers 110 to be off. Further, the sequence can include causing sprayers 110 based on the positions of sprayers 110 or a group of sprayers 110. For example, one or more first sprayers 110 can be statically positioned in a first row and one or more sprayers 110 can be statically positioned in a second row, and the one or more controllers 202 can cause concurrent or individual spraying by the one or more sprayers 110 of sprayers 110 in a first row and at least one or more sprayers 110 in the second row based on a timing cycle or pattern. For example, during a first timing window, there can be spraying by a first sprayer 110 of the one or more first sprayers 110 and by a last sprayer 110 of the one or more second sprayers 110 followed by a second timing window including concurrent spraying by a last sprayer 110 of the one or more first sprayers 110 and by a first sprayer 110 of the one or more second sprayers 110. Each of these sprayers 110 or any combination of sprayers 110 can spray at threshold of any combination of pressure, angle, water concentration or mixture, liquid amount, water temperature, spray release pattern, spray type, and / or spray timing. For example, at a first timing window, the one or more controllers 202 can cause a number of sprayers 110 to spray at a mist type while one or more sprayers 110 can spray at a jet type. That is, sprayers 110 directed at a top row of tableware which may include more delicate tableware may spray the top row of tableware at a mist type for cleaning while sprayers 110 directed to a bottom row of tableware may spray the bottom row at a jet type for removing hardened stains. At a second timing window, selected sprayers 110 may spray a combination of water and additional liquid such as soap for cleaning purposes. At a third timing window, selected sprayers 110 may spray at an elevated temperature for further sanitation. Each timing window can be considered a cycle of dispersion, or a combination of timing windows can be considered a cycle of dispersion, which can be repeated, combined, altered, cut, or otherwise changed to create adaptable spray patterns and multiple cycles of dispersions depending on a desired wash cycle or clean.

[0077] In some implementations, at block 706, the one or more controllers 202 can cause spraying by a first set of sprayers 110 at a first threshold and a second set of sprayers 110 at a second threshold. The one or more controllers 202 can cause the spraying of the combination of sprayers 110 at predetermined or inputted patterns associated with specific cleaning cycles. The cleaning cycles can repeat or change throughout the entirety of a wash cycle. For example, a cycle can be a full blast cycle, where every sprayer is on at the maximum pressure and specified angle in order to spray and clean tableware with excessive and hardened stains. This cycle can repeat a number of times until desired cleaning has occurred. In some implementations, sprayers 110 in a row on a certain side may spray at a mist pattern directed to a section of the dishwasher 100 containing glassware. The first set of sprayers 110 can be a first set of sprayers 110 on a first wall, and the second set of sprayers 110 can be a second set of sprayers 110 on a second wall. When sprayers 110 on opposite walls spray opposite sides of tableware, such as a dish, at the same time, the pressure is multiplied as the opposite sprays create resistance on the plate. The liquid creates a pressure force on each side, and the interaction of the water with the plate's surface generates drag and increases pressure force of the spray on the object.

[0078] In some implementations, at block 708, the one or more controllers 202 can open a water export valve 120. The one or more controllers 202 can perform checks to automatically open the valve 120 at a certain threshold. The threshold can relate to a water level. The water export valve 120 can export water from the dishwasher 100 back to the water circulation circuit 145. That is, the water export valve 120 can open to direct water back into the pump 104 or water circulation circuit 145 (e.g., connection tubes 106). For example, the one or more controllers 202 can activate the water export valve 120, which can be connected to a drain hose, leading to an exit, such as a sink drain or dedicated drain line.

[0079] Referring now to FIGS. 8, 9, and 10, alignment of sprayers 110 at different positions at the internal walls are shown. Additionally spray patterns are shown, according to example implementations. The controller 202 causes the sequences (e.g., spray patterns) by sending control signals to valves controlling the connection tube(s) 106 and sprayer heads. The controller 202 can send control signal to cause the valves to open and close to allow liquid into the connection tube(s) 106 or to the sprayer head of the sprayer(s) 110 to spray water. In some embodiments, there can be valves at any section of connection tube 106 (e.g., at a split to different rows) to allow the controller 202 to send control signals to cause the valves to open and close the connection tubes 106 at desired locations. In some embodiments, sprayers 110 can be electrically coupled to the controller 202 for the controller 202 to send control signals to cause the sprayer heads to open and close to allow sprayers 110 to spray at a desired threshold. As previously discussed, sprayers 110 can be aligned in any manner at any interior or internal wall (e.g., internal side 140). In some implementations, sprayers 110 can be aligned in rows at any wall (e.g., internal side 140). According to some implementations, sprayers 110 can be aligned in multiple (e.g., four) rows at a top wall (e.g., a first internal side 140), bottom wall (e.g., a second internal side 140), first or left sidewall (e.g., a third internal side 140), and second or right sidewall (e.g., a fourth internal side 140), wherein the rows include multiple (e.g., four) sprayers 110 in alignment creating the row. This alignment allows the controller 202 to tailor the spray patterns to specific cleaning needs, whether targeting stubborn stains or gently cleaning delicate items. The following are examples of example spray patterns or sequences, which can be adjusted, repeated, or tailored to optimize cleaning performance and are not meant to be limiting. Example patterns or sequences below represent a few possibilities that dishwasher 100 can offer:

[0080] As shown by example A in FIG. 8, Wash Sequence 1 uses a timed delay between spray actions, indicated by the word “THEN” (representing a delay between steps). In some implementations, the sequence can concurrently spray the sequence of the first wall and a second wall. For example, the sequence can spray the sequence of the top and bottom wall at separate timing cycles. The sequence or pattern can be an ascending or descending pattern for each wall or row, as shown in the pattern below, wherein sprayers 110 on each row spray in an ascending pattern from a first sprayer 110 to a last sprayer 110 of each row. In the following example implementations, the letters A-D represent a row of sprayers 110 on a wall, and the number after the letters represent a sprayer 110 on the wall. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, if the top wall was to have four rows of four sprayers 110, sprayers 110 would be denoted as A1, A2, A3, A4, for the first row (row A), B1, B2, B3, B4, for the second row (row B), C1, C2, C3, C4 for the third row (row C), and D1, D2, D3, D4 for the last row (row D). This arrangement can be similar, or different, for every wall that contains sprayers 110.

[0081] The example pattern as shown by example A in FIG. 8, using FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 as reference, is as follows:

[0082] Bottom-Wall: A1>THEN B1>THEN C1>THEN D1>THEN D2>THEN C2>THEN B2>THEN A2>THEN A3>THEN B3>THEN C3>THEN D3>THEN D4>THEN C4>THEN B4>THEN A4.

[0083] Top-Wall: D4>THEN C4>THEN B4>THEN A4>THEN A3>THEN B3>THEN C3>THEN D4>THEN D2>THEN C2>THEN B2>THEN A2>THEN A1>THEN B1>THEN C1>THEN D1.

[0084] As shown by example B in FIG. 8, Wash Sequence 2 is as follows: The “&” symbol indicates that multiple spray actions can occur simultaneously. For example, two sprayers 110 on one row at a first wall can spray as two sprayers 110 on one row at a second wall can spray. Once these sprayers 110 have sprayed as instructed (e.g., at a threshold of pressure, angle, spray pattern, timing, spray interval, etc.), two potentially different sprayers 110 on one row at a first wall can spray as two sprayers 110 on one row at a second wall can spray. In some implementations, when sprayers 110 at opposite walls spray against the same tableware (e.g., dish), sprayers 110 can create resistance against the tableware to intensify the effect of the spray.

[0085] The example pattern as shown by example B in FIG. 8, using FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 as reference, is as follows:

[0086] Bottom-Wall: A2 &A3>THEN A1 & A4>THEN B1 & B4>THEN B2 & B3>THEN C2 & C3>THEN C1 & C4>THEN D1 & D4>THEN D2 & D3.

[0087] Top-Wall: A4 &A1>THEN A2 & A3>THEN B2 & B3>THEN B4 & B1>THEN C1 & C45 THEN C2 &C3>THEN D2 & D3>THEN D1 & D4.

[0088] As shown by example C in FIG. 8, Wash Sequence 3 is as follows: In this sequence, multiple sprayers 110 on both the bottom and top walls fire in coordinated bursts, as indicated by the “&” symbol. For example, each row on one wall can spray a singular sprayer as each row on another wall can spray a singular sprayer.

[0089] The example pattern as shown by example C in FIG. 8, using FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 as reference, is as follows:

[0090] Bottom-Wall: A1 & B1 & C1 &D1>THEN D2 & C2 & B2 &A2>THEN A3 & B3 & C3 & D3>THEN D4 & C4 & B4 & A4.

[0091] Top-Wall: A4 & B4 & C4 & D4>THEN D3 & C3 & B3 & A3>THEN A2 & B2 & C2 & D2>THEN D1 & C1 & B1 & A1.

[0092] Wash Sequence 4: This sequence introduces a pattern with both single and paired spray actions. As previously discussed, individual and groups of sprayers 110 throughout the dishwasher 100 can spray concurrently:

[0093] Bottom-Wall: A4>THEN B3>THEN C2>THEN D1>THEN A1>THEN B2>THEN C3>THEN D4>THEN A1>THEN B1 & A2>THEN A2 & B1>THEN C1 & B2 & A3>THEN A4 & B3 & C2 &D1>THEN B4 &C3 & D2>THEN C4 & D3>THEN D4.

[0094] Top-Wall: A4>THEN B3>THEN C2>THEN D1>THEN A1>THEN B2>THEN C3>THEN D4>THEN A1>THEN B1 & A2>THEN A2 & B1>THEN C1 & B2 & A3>THEN A4 & BB & C2 & D1>THEN B4 & C3 & D2>THEN C4 & D3>THEN D4.

[0095] Although various implementations and systems have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will also recognize that various substitutions and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the appended claims.

[0096] In the foregoing description of certain implementations, specific terminology has been resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes other technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as “left” and right”, “front” and “rear”, “above” and “below” and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms. In this specification, the word “comprising” is to be understood in its “open” sense, that is, in the sense of “including”, and thus not limited to its “closed” sense, that is the sense of “consisting only of.” A corresponding meaning is to be attributed to the corresponding words “comprise”, “comprised” and “comprises” where they appear.

[0097] In addition, the foregoing describes some implementations of the disclosure, and alterations, modifications, additions and / or changes can be made thereto without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosed implementations, the implementations being illustrative and not restrictive. Furthermore, the disclosure is not to be limited to the illustrated implementations, but to the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Also, the various implementations described above may be implemented in conjunction with other implementations, e.g., aspects of one implementation may be combined with aspects of another implementation to realize yet other implementations. Further, each independent feature or component of any given assembly may constitute an additional implementation.

Claims

1. A spray system for a dishwasher comprising:a plurality of sprayers positioned at multiple internal sides of the dishwasher, wherein each sprayer of the plurality of sprayers is configured to adjustably spray water into the dishwasher;a pump having an input and an output, the pump configured to receive water at the input and pump water to the output;a water circulation circuit comprising a connection tube connecting the water circulation circuit to the output of the pump, wherein the water circulation circuit is configured to receive water from the output of the pump and to provide water at the plurality of sprayers; andone or more controllers configured to cause spraying by individual sprayers of the plurality of sprayers in a sequence.

2. The spray system of claim 1, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause spraying by individual sprayers of the plurality of sprayers in the sequence, are configured to:cause, during a time window, spraying by one or more first sprayers of the plurality of sprayers while one or more second sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are off.

3. The spray system of claim 1, wherein one or more first sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are statically positioned in a first row and one or more second sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are statically positioned in a second row, andwherein the one or more controllers, to cause spraying by individual sprayers of the plurality of sprayers in the sequence, are configured to:cause concurrent or individual spraying by at least one of the one or more first sprayers in the first row and at least one of the one or more second sprayers in the second row based on a timing cycle.

4. The spray system of claim 3, wherein the first row extends along a first internal side of the multiple internal sides of the dishwasher and the second row extends along a second internal side of the multiple internal sides of the dishwasher.

5. The spray system of claim 3, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause concurrent or individual spraying by the at least one of the one or more first sprayers in the first row and the at least one of the one or more second sprayers in the second row based on the timing cycle, are configured to:cause concurrent spraying by the one or more second sprayers in the second row and by the one or more first sprayers in the first row according to a pattern.

6. The spray system of claim 1, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause spraying by individual sprayers of the plurality of sprayers in the sequence, are configured to:cause, during a first time window, spraying by one or more first sprayers of the plurality of sprayers while one or more second sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are off; andcause, during a second time window, spraying by the one or more second sprayers while the one or more first sprayers are off.

7. The spray system of claim 1, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause spraying by individual sprayers of the plurality of sprayers in the sequence, are configured to:cause spraying by a first set of the plurality of sprayers at a first threshold and by a second set of the plurality of sprayers at a second threshold.

8. The spray system of claim 7, wherein the first threshold and the second threshold are the same one, or different combinations, of: pressure, angle, water concentration or mixture, liquid amount, water temperature, spray release pattern, spray type, or spray timing.

9. A dishwasher, comprising:a wash chamber having an internal volume and configured to receive and store objects to be cleaned;a plurality of sprayers positioned at multiple internal sides of the wash chamber, wherein the plurality of sprayers are configured to spray water into the internal volume of the wash chamber;at least one pump having an input and an output, and the at least one pump configured to receive water at the input and to pump the water to the output,a water circulation circuit comprising a plurality of connection tubes connecting the water circulation circuit to the plurality of sprayers, wherein the water circulation circuit is configured to receive the water from the output of the at least one pump and to provide the water at the plurality of sprayers;one or more controllers configured to control dispersion of the water through the plurality of connection tubes of the water circulation circuit to deliver the water to desired sprayers, of the plurality of sprayers, to cause the desired sprayers to spray water to a selective portion of the wash chamber in a sequence; anda filter positioned adjacent to a bottom internal side of the wash chamber, the filter comprising:a liquid filtration component configured to filter water received at the liquid filtration component for at least one of: reuse by the water circulation circuit or removal from the wash chamber; anda debris collection component configured to catch debris in the water received at the liquid filtration component.

10. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause desired sprayers to sprayer water in a sequence, are configured to:cause, during a time window, spraying by one or more first sprayers of the plurality of sprayers while one or more second sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are off.

11. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause desired sprayers to sprayer water in a sequence, are configured to:cause, during a first time window, spraying by one or more first sprayers of the plurality of sprayers while one or more second sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are off; andcause, during a second time window, spraying by the one or more second sprayers while the one or more first sprayers are off.

12. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein a group of the plurality of sprayers are statically positioned in a row that extends along one of the multiple internal sides.

13. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the plurality of sprayers are statically positioned in respective rows extending along the bottom internal side, a left internal side, a right internal side, and a top internal side of the wash chamber.

14. The dishwasher of claim 13, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause desired sprayers to sprayer water in a sequence, are configured to:cause spraying by sprayers, of the plurality of sprayers, in a row of the respective rows in an ascending or descending cycle.

15. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the one or more controllers, to cause desired sprayers to sprayer water in a sequence, are configured to:cause spraying by a first set of the plurality of sprayers at a first threshold and by a second set of the plurality of sprayers at a second threshold.

16. A method for operating a dishwasher comprising a wash chamber having an internal volume defined by a plurality of internal sides, the method comprising:causing, by one or more controllers, a water intake valve to open to provide water into a pump;causing, by the one or more controllers, the water to pump from the pump into a water circulation circuit;initiating, by the one or more controllers, a cycle of dispersion of the water through at least one connection tube of the water circulation circuit to a plurality of sprayers positioned at multiple internal sides of the plurality of internal sides of the wash chamber, wherein initiation of the cycle of dispersion of the water causes spraying of the plurality of sprayers in a sequence; andcausing, by the one or more controllers, a water export valve to open to direct the water sprayed by the plurality of sprayers into the wash chamber for at least one of: reuse of the water by the water circulation circuit, or removal of the water out of the wash chamber.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein spraying of the plurality of sprayers in the sequence comprises:spraying, during a time window, by one or more first sprayers of the plurality of sprayers while one of more second sprayers of the plurality of sprayers are off.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein spraying of the plurality of sprayers in the sequence comprises:spraying the water from the plurality of sprayers to a selective portion of the wash chamber at a threshold.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising:initiating, by the one or more controllers, an additional cycle of dispersion of the water through the at least one connection tube of the water circulation circuit to the plurality of sprayers;and causing, by the one or more controllers, spraying the water from the plurality of sprayers to a second selective portion of the wash chamber at a different threshold based on the additional cycle of dispersion.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein causing the water export valve to open comprises causing the water export valve to open to direct the water to the water circulation circuit for reuse of the water by the water circulation circuit.

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