DISHWASHER

Abstract

A dishwasher includes a tub, a basket configured to receive tableware while the basket is inside the tub where the basket includes a wire, and a duct couplable to or decouplable from the basket. The duct includes a hook to restrict a movement of the duct relative to the basket, while the duct is coupled to the basket and an elastic rib. The elastic rib is spaced apart from the hook and elastically support the wire and restrict the movement of the duct relative to the basket from an opposite direction along which the hook restricts the movement of the duct relative to the basket.

Claims

1. A dishwasher comprising: a tub; a basket, arrangeable inside the tub, configured to receive tableware, the basket including a wire extending along a first direction; and a duct configured to extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction and couple to or decouple from the basket; wherein the duct comprises: a hook configured to restrict a movement of the duct relative to the basket, while the duct is coupled to the basket, and an elastic rib, spaced apart from the hook along the second direction, to elastically support the wire and restrict the movement of the duct relative to the basket from an opposite direction along which the hook restricts the movement of the duct relative to the basket.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the basket is insertable into the tub and withdrawable from the tub along the second direction, and the elastic rib is configured to dampen an impact caused as the basket is inserted into the tub and/or as the basket is withdrawn from the tub.

3. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the elastic rib is elastically deformable along the second direction.

4. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein while the duct is coupled to the basket, the wire is in a space between the hook and the elastic rib and the elastic rib and the hook are configured to be in contact with the wire to restrict a movement of the wire in the second direction relative to the duct.

5. The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein the hook is configured to contact a front portion of the wire, and the elastic rib is configured to contact a rear portion of the wire.

6. The dishwasher of claim 4, wherein the hook is configured to contact a rear portion of the wire, and the elastic rib is configured to contact a front portion of the wire.

7. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the wire is a first wire, the basket further comprises a second wire spaced apart from the first wire along the second direction and the second wire extends along the first direction, and the duct further comprises a support rib configured to support the second wire while the duct is coupled to the basket.

8. The dishwasher of claim 7, wherein the support rib is configured to contact the second wire to restrict a movement of the second wire along a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction relative the duct, while the duct is coupled to the basket.

9. The dishwasher of claim 8, wherein the support rib comprises: a first support portion formed on a lower portion of the duct and configured to hold an upper portion of the second wire, a second support portion spaced downwardly from the first support portion and configured to hold a lower portion of the second wire, a connecting portion connecting the first support portion and the second support portion, and a groove portion defined by the first support portion, the second support portion, and the connecting portion, and configured to receive the wire.

10. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the second wire comprises a first extension extending along the first direction, a second extension bent downwardly from one side of the first extension, and a third extension bent downwardly from another side of the first extension, and the second support portion of the support rib is configured to contact the second extension and the third extension to restrict the movement of the second wire in the first direction relative to the duct, while the duct is coupled to the basket.

11. The dishwasher of claim 10, wherein a length of the second support portion along the first direction is configured to correspond to a length between the second extension and the third extension along the first direction.

12. The dishwasher of claim 7, wherein the support rib is among a plurality of support ribs, the plurality of support ribs is arranged along the second direction, and the hook and the elastic rib are disposed between two of the plurality of support ribs.

13. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the duct is configured to be coupled to or be decoupled from the basket by moving in the second direction relative to the basket.

14. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the duct is a first duct, and the dishwasher further comprises: a sump configured to receive water inside the tub; and a second duct configured to be supplied with water from the sump and to guide the supplied water to the first duct, wherein the first duct is coupled to the second duct by being inserted into the tub together with the basket, and is detached from the second duct by being withdrawn from the tub together with the basket.

15. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising: a spray rotor configured to be supplied with water flowing out of the duct and to spray the supplied water toward the tableware, wherein the duct further comprises: a first holder comprising an outlet and configured to rotatably support an upper portion of the spray rotor, and a second holder configured to rotatably support a lower portion of the spray rotor.

Description

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 illustrates a basket, a first duct, and a spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates the basket, the first duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from a direction different from that of FIG. 5.

[0020] FIG. 7 illustrates the basket, the first duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from a direction different from those of FIGS. 5 and 6.

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

[0022] FIG. 9 is an exploded view illustrating the basket, the first duct, and the spray rotor from a direction different from that of FIG. 8, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I of FIG. 5 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of portion A of FIG. 6 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II of FIG. 11 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment in which the positions of a hook and an elastic rib shown in FIG. 12 are changed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of portion B of FIG. 6 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. 14 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV of FIG. 14 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of portion C of FIG. 6 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V of FIG. 17 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI of FIG. 17 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 20 schematically illustrates a state in which a hook of a duct is pressed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 21 schematically illustrates a state in which the duct is moved relative to the basket after the hook of the duct is pressed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

MODES OF THE INVENTION

[0035] 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.

[0036] In describing the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to designate similar constituent elements.

[0037] A singular expression may include a plural expression unless they are definitely different in a context.

[0038] The expressions A or B, at least one of A or/and B, or one or more of A or/and B, A, B or C, at least one of A, B or/and C, or 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.

[0039] The term of and/or includes a plurality of combinations of relevant items or any one item among a plurality of relevant items.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] In this disclosure, the terms comprising, 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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. For example, an X direction may refer to a front-to-back direction, a Y direction may refer to a left-to-right (or horizontal) direction.

[0047] 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).

[0048] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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 example described above, and in an example, the lower basket 51 may be configured to be slidable by a separate guide rail.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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 example described above.

[0060] 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 slidable 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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).

[0067] 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).

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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 example described above.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] The terms first direction (D1), second direction (D2), and third direction (D3) used in the following description may be defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each configuration are not limited by these terms. For example, the second direction D2 may correspond to a direction in which the basket 53 moves, and the first direction D1 and the third direction D3 may each be a direction that intersects the second direction D2. For example, the first direction D1 may include the left-to-right direction (Y-direction), the second direction D2 may include the front-to-back direction (X-direction), and the third direction D3 may include an up-and-down direction (Z-direction). In addition, the ordinal numbers in first direction (D1), second direction (D2), and third direction (D3) do not limit the configuration.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] For example, the first duct 100 may include a shape extending along the second direction D2. 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).

[0084] 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.

[0085] For example, the second duct 200 may include a shape extending along the third direction D3. 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 second direction D2, and a second frame portion 212 extending from the first frame portion 211 substantially along the third second direction D3. 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 include an outlet 230 through which water from the duct frame 210 is discharged. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the example 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] For example, the third duct 300 may include a shape extending along the second direction D2. For example, the third duct 300 may include a shape extending substantially along the front-to-back direction (X-direction).

[0088] 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.

[0089] For example, the fourth duct 400 may be arranged along the second duct 200 and the first direction D1. For example, the fourth duct 400 may include a shape extending along the second direction D2 and a shape extending along the third direction D3. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the example 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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. The first duct 100 may move substantially along the second direction D2 (e.g., the front-to-back direction (X-direction)) while coupled to the basket 53.

[0095] The first duct 100 may be arranged to dock with or undock from the second duct 200 by moving along the second direction D2 while being coupled to the basket 53. The flange 113 of the first duct 100 may be docked with the flange 213 of the second duct 200. The flange 113 of the first duct 100 may be undocked from the flange 213 of the second duct 200. While the first duct 100 and the second duct 200 are connected, the flange 113 of the first duct 100 and the flange 213 of the second duct 200 may be in communication with each other.

[0096] 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 second direction D2. For example, the first duct 100 may be docked with the second duct 200 by moving substantially 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.

[0097] 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 second direction D2. For example, the first duct 100 may be undocked from the second duct 200 by moving substantially forward (+X direction).

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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. The sealing member 80 may be mounted on the flange 213 of the second duct 200. For example, the sealing member 80 may include a ring shape.

[0100] FIG. 5 illustrates the basket, the first duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates the basket, the first duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from a direction different from that of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 illustrates the basket, the first duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from a direction different from those of FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 8 is an exploded view illustrating the basket, the first duct, and the spray rotor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is an exploded view illustrating the basket, the first duct, and the spray rotor from a direction different from that of FIG. 8, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I of FIG. 5 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 9, the dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the basket 53, the first duct 100, and the spray rotor 500.

[0102] The basket 53 may include a plurality of wires. The plurality of wires may form a frame for supporting tableware. The plurality of wires may form an appearance of the basket 53. A portion of the plurality of wires may be arranged to intersect with other parts of the plurality of wires.

[0103] For example, the basket 53 may include a first wire 531. The first wire 531 may include a shape extending substantially along the first direction D1. The first wire 531 may be disposed between a second wire 532 and a third wire 533, which will be described later.

[0104] For example, the basket 53 may include the second wire 532. The second wire 532 may include a shape extending substantially along the first direction D1. The second wire 532 may be spaced apart from the first wire 531 substantially in the second direction D2. The first wire 531 and the second wire 532 may be arranged substantially along the second direction D2. The second wire 532 may be disposed on a rear of the first wire 531.

[0105] For example, the basket 53 may include the third wire 533. The third wire 533 may include a shape extending substantially along the first direction D1. The third wire 533 may be spaced apart from the first wire 531 substantially in the second direction D2. The first wire 531 and the third wire 533 may be arranged along the substantially second direction D2. The third wire 533 may be disposed on a front of the first wire 531.

[0106] For example, the first wire 531, the second wire 532, and the third wire 533 may have substantially the same shape.

[0107] The first duct 100 may be configured to be detachably mountable to the basket 53. The first duct 100 may be configured to hold a portion of the plurality of wires of the basket 52. For example, the first duct 100 may be configured to hold the first wire 531, the second wire 532, and the third wire 533, respectively.

[0108] The first duct 100 may include a duct frame 110. The duct frame 110 may form a flow path 110f (see FIG. 10). 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 second direction D2.

[0109] 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.

[0110] The duct frame 110 may include a duct cover 112. The duct cover 112 may be configured to cover the 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.

[0111] The duct frame 110 may include the flange 113. The flange 113 may include an inlet 120, which will be described later. 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 with and undocked from 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.

[0112] The first duct 100 may include the 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. The inlet 120 may be formed on the flange 113. 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 of the first duct 100 may be in communication with the outlet 230 of the second duct 200. For example, the inlet 120 may be open toward the rear (X direction).

[0113] The first duct 100 may include the outlet 130. The outlet 130 may be configured to discharge 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).

[0114] For example, the outlet 130 may be provided in a plurality. The plurality of outlets 130 may be spaced apart along a flow direction of water. The plurality of outlets 130 may be spaced apart along the second direction D2. The plurality of outlets 130 may be arranged along the second direction D2. 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 example described above, and there is no limitation on the number of outlets 130.

[0115] The first duct 100 may include a first holder 170. The first holder 170 may include the outlet 130. The first holder 170 may form the outlet 130. The first holder 170 may be configured to surround the outlet 130. The first holder 170 may be formed on a lower portion of the duct frame 110. The first holder 170 may extend downwardly from the duct frame 110. The first holder 170 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 170.

[0116] The first duct 100 may include a second holder 180. The second holder 180 may be spaced apart from the first holder 170. The second holder 180 may be formed on the lower portion of the duct frame 110. The second holder 180 may extend downwardly from the duct frame 110. The second holder 180 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 180.

[0117] The first duct 100 may include a hook 140. The hook 140 may be formed on the duct frame 110. In an example, the hook 140 may be formed on the lower portion of the duct frame 110. In an example, the hook 140 may extend from the duct body 111. While the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53, the hook 140 may correspond to the first wire 531.

[0118] The hook 140 will be described in more detail later.

[0119] The first duct 100 may include an elastic rib 150. The elastic rib 150 may be formed on the duct frame 110. In an example, the elastic rib 150 may be formed on the lower portion of the duct frame 110. In an example, the elastic rib 150 may extend from the duct body 111. The elastic rib 150 may be spaced apart from the hook 140 in the second direction D2. While the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53, the elastic rib 150 may correspond to the first wire 531.

[0120] The elastic rib 150 will be described in more detail later.

[0121] The first duct 100 may include a support rib 160. The support rib 160 may be formed on the duct frame 110. In an example, the support rib 160 may be formed on the lower portion of the duct frame 110. In an example, the support rib 160 may extend from the duct body 111. The support rib 160 may be spaced apart from the hook 140 in the second direction D2. The support rib 160 may be spaced apart from the elastic rib 150 in the second direction D2. While the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53, the support rib 160 may correspond to other wires 532 and/or 533 in addition to the first wire 531.

[0122] For example, the first duct 100 may include a plurality of support ribs 160, and the plurality of support ribs 160 may be arranged along the second direction D2. For example, each hook 140 and each elastic rib 150 may be disposed between two support ribs 160 of the plurality of support ribs 160.

[0123] For example, the first duct 100 may include a first support rib 160a and a second support rib 160b. The hook 140 and the elastic rib 150 may be disposed between the first support rib 160a and the second support rib 160b. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the example described above, and there is no limitation on the number of support ribs 160. However, for ease of description, the follow description will focus on an example in which the first duct 100 includes two support ribs 160a and 160b.

[0124] The first support rib 160a may be disposed behind the hook 140. The first support rib 160a may be disposed behind the elastic rib 150. While the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53, the first support rib 160a may correspond to the second wire 532.

[0125] The second support rib 160b may be disposed in front of the hook 140. The second support rib 160b may be disposed in front of the elastic rib 150. While the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53, the second support rib 160b may correspond to the third wire 533.

[0126] The support rib 160 will be described in more detail later.

[0127] The spray rotor 500 may be configured to be removably mountable to the first duct 100. While the spray rotor 500 is mounted to the first duct 100, the spray rotor 500 may be configured to be supplied with water flowing out of the first duct 100 and to spray the supplied water toward the tableware.

[0128] The spray rotor 500 may include a communication port 510. The communication port 510 may be open toward the outlet 130. 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 in a upward (+Z direction).

[0129] 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 the tableware.

[0130] Next, a flow of water will be described exemplarily. The first duct 100 may guide water. Water may flow through the flow path 110f in substantially the second direction D2. The water flowing through the flow path 110f may flow out of the first duct 100 through the plurality of outlets 130. The water flowing out through the plurality of outlets 130 may flow to the plurality of spray rotors 500. Each communication port 510 of the spray rotors 500 may be supplied with water flowing out through each of the outlets 130. Each spray nozzle 520 of the spray rotors 500 may spray the water supplied from the first duct 100 toward the tableware.

[0131] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of portion A of FIG. 6 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II of FIG. 11 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment in which the positions of the hook and the elastic rib shown in FIG. 12 are changed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] The hook 140 may be configured to hold the first wire 531 while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53. The hook 140 may be in contact with the first wire 531 while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53. The hook 140 may be configured to restrict the movement of the first duct 100 relative to the basket 53 while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53.

[0133] For example, the hook 140 may include a hook body 141 and a hook protrusion 142. The hook body 141 may extend from the lower portion of the duct frame 110. The hook body 141 may include a shape inclined substantially along the second direction D2. The hook protrusion 142 may extend from the hook body 141 and include a shape corresponding to the first wire 531. The hook protrusion 142 may be configured to hook around a portion of the first wire 531. The hook protrusion 142 may be formed at an end of the hook body 141. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the example described above, and the hook 140 may include a variety of shapes to hold the first wire 531.

[0134] For example, a first gap g1 may be formed between the duct frame 110 and the hook 140. The hook 140 may be configured to be elastically deformable, and may be movable substantially along the third direction D3 (e.g., the vertical direction (Z-direction)) by the first gap g1. For example, a portion of the hook body 141 and the hook protrusion 142 may move upwardly. For example, the hook 140 may move until the hook protrusion 142 touches the duct frame 110.

[0135] The elastic rib 150 may be configured to elastically support the first wire 531 while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53. The elastic rib 150 may be in contact with the first wire 531 while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53. The elastic rib 150 may be configured to restrict movement of the first duct 100 relative to the basket 53 in a direction opposite to the direction in which the hook 140 restricts the movement of the first duct 100 relative t to the basket 53, while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53. In other words, the direction in which the hook 140 restricts the movement of the first duct 100 relative to the basket 53 and the direction in which the elastic rib 150 restricts the movement of the first duct 100 relative to the basket 53 may be opposite each other. Accordingly, while the first duct 100 and the basket 53 are coupled to each other, the first duct 100 may not be easily detached from the basket 53 or easily dislodged from the position where it is coupled to the basket 53.

[0136] For example, the elastic rib 150 may include a first rib body 151 and a second rib body 152. The first rib body 151 may extend downwardly from the duct frame 110. The second rib body 152 may extend upwardly from the first rib body 151. The second rib body 152 may extend from a lower end of the first rib body 151. In an example, the elastic rib 150 may include a substantially V shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the example described above, and the support rib 150 may include a variety of shapes to elastically support the first wire 531.

[0137] For example, a second gap g2 may be formed between the first rib body 151 and the second rib body 152. The second gap g2 may include a shape that tapers downwardly. The elastic rib 150 may include an elastically deformable material, and may be movable substantially along the second direction D2 (e.g., the front-to-back direction (X-direction)) by the second gap g2.

[0138] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53, the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150 may hold the first wire 531. The hook 140 and the elastic rib 150 may be disposed such that the first wire 531 is positioned between the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150. In other words, the first wire 531 may be disposed between the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150. The hook 140 and the elastic rib 150 may each be in contact with the first wire 531 disposed between the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150. The first wire 531 may interfere with the hook 140. The first wire 531 may interfere with the elastic rib 150. Accordingly, the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150 may be configured to hold the first wire 531 substantially in the second direction D2. For example, the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150 may be configured to hold the first wire 531 back and forth. The first wire 531 may be restricted from movement in the second direction D2 relative to the first duct 100. The first wire 531 may not be easily dislodged or detached from the first duct 100. Consequently, the coupling force between the basket 53 and the first duct 100 may be increased.

[0139] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the elastic rib 150 may be configured to be elastically deformable along the second direction D2. For example, the second rib body 152 may be bent substantially along the second direction D2 (see dashed lines in FIGS. 12 and 13). Thereby, the elastic rib 150 may elastically support the first wire 531.

[0140] In an example, an impact may occur upon withdrawal and/or insertion of the basket 53. Specifically, during docking of the first duct 100 to the second duct 200 and/or undocking of the first duct 100 from the second duct 200, the impact may be caused by a frictional force between the first duct 100 and the second duct 200. In the case that the first duct 100 does not properly hold the basket 53, the first duct 100 and the basket 53 may be shaken by the impact, and the coupling force between the duct 100 and the basket 53 may be reduced. In addition, the tableware or the like stored in the basket 53 may be damaged by the impact. However, according to the present disclosure, the elastic rib 150 may be configured to dampen/reduce an impact, vibration, or the like applied to the first wire 531 by elastically supporting the first wire 531. The elastic rib 150 may dampen the impact that occurs upon withdrawal and/or insertion of the basket 53. The elastic rib 150 may reduce the impact that occurs when the first duct 100 is docked to or undocked from the second duct 200. Consequently, the coupling force between the first duct 100 and the basket 53 may be increased, and the tableware may be reliably supported by the basket 53.

[0141] For example, referring to FIG. 12, the hook 140 may be configured to contact a front portion 531a of the first wire 531, and the elastic rib 150 may be configured to contact a rear portion 531b of the first wire 531. Here, the front portion 531a of the first wire 531 may refer to a front portion based on a center C of the first wire 531, and the rear portion 531b of the first wire 531 may refer to a rear portion based on the center C of the first wire 531. While the hook 140 holds the front portion 531a of the first wire 531, the elastic rib 150 may elastically support the rear portion 531b of the first wire 531. In an example, the hook protrusion 142 of the hook 140 may hook around the front portion 531a of the first wire 531. In an example, the second rib body 152 of the elastic rib 150 may contact the rear portion of the first wire 531.

[0142] The embodiment shown in FIG. 13 may be substantially the same as the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, except that the positions of the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150 are swapped. For example, referring to FIG. 13, the hook 140 may be configured to contact the rear portion 531b of the first wire 531, and the elastic rib 150 may be configured to contact the front portion 531a of the first wire 531. While the hook 140 holds the rear portion 531b of the first wire 531, the elastic rib 150 may elastically support the front portion 531a of the first wire 531. In an example, the hook protrusion 142 of the hook 140 may hook around the rear portion 531b of the first wire 531. In an example, the second rib body 152 of the elastic rib 150 may contact the rear portion of the first wire 531.

[0143] FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of portion B of FIG. 6 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. 14 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV of FIG. 14 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0144] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, the first support rib 160a may be configured to support the second wire 532 while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53. The first support rib 160a may be configured to hold the second wire 532 while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53. The first support rib 160a may be configured to contact the second wire 532 while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53.

[0145] The first support rib 160a may contact the second wire 532 to restrict the movement of the second wire 532 in the third direction D3 (e.g., the vertical direction (Z-direction)) relative to the first duct 100, while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53. The first support rib 160a may be configured to hold the second wire 532 substantially in the third direction D3. Accordingly, the first support rib 160a may prevent/reduce the swaying of the second wire 532 along the third direction D3. The second wire 532 may not be easily dislodged or detached from the first duct 100. The coupling force between the basket 53 and the first duct 100 may be increased.

[0146] For example, the first support rib 160a may include a first support portion 161a. The first support portion 161a may be formed on a lower portion of the first duct 100. The first support portion 161a may be formed on the lower portion of the duct frame 110. The first support portion 161a may be configured to hold an upper portion of the second wire 532.

[0147] For example, the first support rib 160a may include a second support portion 162a. The second support portion 162a may be spaced downwardly from the first support portion 161a and configured to hold a lower portion of the second wire 532.

[0148] For example, the first support rib 160a may include a first connecting portion 163a. The first connecting portion 163a may connect the first support portion 161a and the second support portion 162a. The first connecting portion 163a may extend substantially along the third direction D3.

[0149] For example, the first support rib 160a may include a first groove portion 164a. The first groove portion 164a may be defined by the first support portion 161a, the second support portion 162a, and the first connecting portion 163a. The first groove portion 164a may be formed by the first support portion 161a, the second support portion 162a, and the first connecting portion 163a. The first groove portion 164a may be configured to receive the second wire 532. The second wire 532 may be configured to be insertable into the first groove portion 164a. For example, the first groove portion 164a may be open toward the front.

[0150] For example, the second wire 532 disposed in the first groove portion 164a may interfere with the first support portion 161a and the second support portion 162a, respectively. The second wire 532 disposed in the first groove portion 164a may be restricted from moving upwardly by the first support portion 161a. The second wire 532 disposed in the first groove portion 164a may be restricted from moving downwardly by the second support portion 162a.

[0151] With the examples described above, the second wire 532 may be restricted from moving in the third direction D3 relative to the first duct 100. The first support rib 160a may effectively hold the second wire 532.

[0152] The first support rib 160a may contact the second wire 532 such that, while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53, the second wire 532 is restricted from moving in the first direction D1 (e.g., the left-to-right direction (Y-direction)) relative to the first duct 100. Accordingly, the first support rib 160a may prevent/reduce the swaying of the second wire 532 along the first direction D1. The second wire 532 may not be easily dislodged or detached from the first duct 100. The coupling force between the basket 53 and the first duct 100 may be increased.

[0153] For example, the second wire 532 may include a first extension 5321 extending along the first direction D1, a second extension 5322 bent downwardly from one side of the first extension 5321, and a third extension 5323 bent downwardly from the other side of the first extension 5321. For example, the second wire 532 may include a shape of a substantially inverted U.

[0154] For example, while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53, the second support portion 162a of the first support rib 160a may be configured to contact the second extension 5322 and the third extension 5323. One side 1621a of the first support rib 160a may interfere with the second extension 5322. One side 1621a of the first support rib 160a may contact the second extension 5322. The other side 1622a of the first support rib 160a may interfere with the third extension 5323. The other side 1622a of the first support rib 160a may contact the third extension 5323. For example, a length L1 of the second support portion 162a along the first direction D1 may be configured to correspond to a length between the second extension 5322 and the third extension 5323 along the first direction D1, within a predetermined tolerance. Here, the length between the second extension 5322 and the third extension 5323 along the first direction D1 may refer to a minimum length between the second extension 5322 and the third extension 5323. For example, the length L1 of the second support portion 162a along the first direction D1 may be configured to correspond to a length of the first extension 5321 along the first direction D1, within a predetermined tolerance.

[0155] With the examples described above, the second wire 532 may be restricted from moving in the first direction D1 relative to the first duct 100. The first support rib 160a may effectively hold the second wire 532.

[0156] FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of portion C of FIG. 6 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V of FIG. 17 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI of FIG. 17 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0157] Referring to FIGS. 17 to 19, the second support rib 160b may be configured to support the third wire 533 while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53. The second support rib 160b may be configured to hold the third wire 533 while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53. The second support rib 160b may be configured to contact the third wire 533 while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53.

[0158] The second support rib 160b may contact the third wire 533 such that the third wire 533 is restricted from moving in the third direction D3 (e.g., the vertical direction (Z-direction)) relative to the first duct 100, while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53.

[0159] The second support rib 160b may be configured to hold the third wire 533 substantially in the third direction D3. Accordingly, the second support rib 160b may prevent/reduce the swaying of the third wire 533 along the third direction D3. The third wire 533 may not be easily dislodged or detached from the first duct 100. The coupling force between the basket 53 and the first duct 100 may be increased.

[0160] For example, the second support rib 160b may include a third support portion 161b. The third support portion 161b may be formed on the lower portion of the first duct 100. The third support portion 161b may be formed on the lower portion of the duct frame 110. The third support portion 161b may be configured to hold an upper portion of the third wire 533.

[0161] For example, the second support rib 160b may include a fourth support portion 162b. The fourth support portion 162b may be spaced downwardly from the third support portion 161b and configured to hold a lower portion of the third wire 533.

[0162] For example, the second support rib 160b may include a second connecting portion 163b. The second connecting portion 163b may connect the third support portion 161b and the fourth support portion 162b. The second connecting portion 163b may extend substantially along the third direction D3.

[0163] For example, the second support rib 160b may include a second groove portion 164b. The second groove portion 164b may be defined by the third support portion 161b, the fourth support portion 162b, and the second connecting portion 163b. The second groove portion 164b may be formed by the third support portion 161b, the fourth support portion 162b, and the second connecting portion 163b. The second groove portion 164b may be configured to receive the third wire 533. The third wire 533 may be configured to be insertable into the second groove portion 164b. For example, the second groove portion 164b may be open toward the front.

[0164] For example, the third wire 533 disposed in the second groove portion 164b may interfere with the third support portion 161b and the fourth support portion 162b, respectively. The third wire 533 disposed in the second groove portion 164b may be restricted from moving upwardly by the third support portion 161b. The third wire 533 disposed in the second groove portion 164b may be restricted from moving downwardly by the fourth support portion 162b.

[0165] With the examples described above, the third wire 533 may be restricted from moving in the third direction D3 relative to the first duct 100. The second support rib 160b may effectively hold the third wire 533.

[0166] The second support rib 160b may contact the third wire 533 such that the third wire 533 is restricted from moving in the first direction D1 (e.g., the left-to-right direction (Y-direction)) relative to the first duct 100, while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53. Accordingly, the second support rib 160b may prevent/reduce the swaying of the third wire 533 along the first direction D1. The third wire 533 may not be easily dislodged or detached from the first duct 100. The coupling force between the basket 53 and the first duct 100 may be increased.

[0167] For example, the third wire 533 may include a fourth extension 5331 extending along the first direction D1, a fifth extension 5332 bent downwardly from one side of the fourth extension 5331, and a sixth extension 5333 bent downwardly from the other side of the fourth extension 5331. For example, the third wire 533 may include a shape of a substantially inverted U.

[0168] For example, while the first duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53, the fourth support portion 162b of the second support rib 160b may be configured to contact the fifth extension 5332 and the sixth extension 5333. One side 1621b of the second support rib 160b may interfere with the fifth extension 5332. One side 1621b of the second support rib 160b may contact the fifth extension 5332. The other side 1622b of the second support rib 160b may interfere with the sixth extension 5333. The other side 1622b of the second support rib 160b may contact the sixth extension 5333. For example, a length L2 of the fourth support portion 162b along the first direction D1 may be configured to correspond to a length between the fifth extension 5332 and the sixth extension 5333 along the first direction D1, within a predetermined tolerance. Here, the length between the fifth extension 5332 and the sixth extension 5333 along the first direction D1 may refer to a minimum length between the fifth extension 5332 and the sixth extension 5333. For example, the length L1 of the fourth support portion 162b along the first direction D1 may be configured to correspond to a length of the fourth extension 5331 along the first direction D1, within a predetermined tolerance.

[0169] With the examples described above, the third wire 533 may be restricted from moving in the first direction D1 relative to the first duct 100. The second support rib 160b may effectively hold the third wire 533.

[0170] FIG. 20 schematically illustrates a state in which the hook of the duct is pressed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 21 schematically illustrates a state in which the duct has moved relative to the basket after the hook of the duct is pressed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0171] While FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrates only the second support rib 160b of the plurality of support ribs 160, the content shown for the second support rib 160b may be equally applicable to the first support rib 160a.

[0172] The first duct 100 may be coupled to or decoupled from the basket 53 by moving in the second direction D2 relative to the basket 53.

[0173] For example, with reference to FIGS. 20 and 21, a process of detaching the first duct 100 from the basket 53 will be described. Referring to FIG. 20, the hook 140 of the first duct 100 may be pressed. In an example, a user may press the hook 140 using his/her hand or a tool. Upon pressing the hook 140, the hook 140 may be elastically deformed. Referring to FIG. 21, after the hook 140 of the first duct 100 is pressed, the first duct 100 may move substantially in the second direction D2 relative to the basket 53. For example, the first duct 100 may move rearwardly (X direction). The first wire 531 may be released from between the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150. Accordingly, the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150 may not hold the first wire 531. In addition, the support rib 160 may not support at least one wire 532 and/or 533 of the basket 53. For example, the second wire 532 may be released from the first groove portion 164a of the first support rib 160a. For example, the third wire 533 may be released from the second groove portion 164b of the second support rib 160b. Consequently, by moving the first duct 100 in the second direction D2 relative to the basket 53, the first duct 100 and the basket 53 may be easily detached.

[0174] For example, a process of coupling the first duct 100 to the basket 53 will be described. The first duct 100 may move substantially in the second direction D2 relative to the basket 53. For example, the first duct 100 may move in a forward (+X direction) (the first duct 100 moves forward from the state shown in FIG. 21). During the movement of the first duct 100, the hook 140 may be pressed by the first wire 531 and elastically deformed. After the first duct 100 is moved, the pressed hook 140 may be restored to its original state, and the first wire 531 may be disposed between the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150. Accordingly, the first wire 531 may be held by the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150. In addition, the support rib 160 may support at least one wire 532 and/or 533 of the basket 53. For example, the second wire 532 may be insertable into the first groove portion 164a of the first support rib 160a. For example, the third wire 533 may be insertable into the second groove portion 164b of the second support rib 160b. Consequently, by moving the first duct 100 in the second direction D2 relative to the basket 53, the first duct 100 and the basket 53 may be easily coupled.

[0175] The dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes the tub 12, the basket 53, arrangeable inside the tub 12, configured to receive tableware, the basket 53 including the wire 531 extending along the first direction D1, and the duct 100 configured to extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction and couple to or decouple from the basket 53. The duct 100 includes the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150. The hook 140 is configured to restrict a movement of the duct 100 relative to the basket 53 while the duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53. The elastic rib 150 is spaced apart from the hook 140 along the second direction D2, which intersects the first direction D1. The elastic rib 150 is configured to elastically support the wire 531. The elastic rib 150 is configured to restrict the movement of the duct 100 with respect to the basket 53 in a direction opposite to the direction in which the hook 140 restricts the movement of the duct 100 relative to the basket 53.

[0176] The basket 53 may be configured to be insertable into the tub 12 and withdrawable from the tub 12 along the second direction D2. The elastic rib 150 may be configured to dampen an impact caused as the basket is inserted into the tub and/or as the basket 53 is withdrawn from the tub 12.

[0177] The elastic rib 150 may be configured to be elastically deformable along the second direction D2.

[0178] While the duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53, the wire 531 is in a space between the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150, and the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150 may restrict a movement of the wire 531 in the second direction D2 relative to the duct. While the duct 100 is coupled to the basket 53, the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150 may be configured to be in contact with the wire 531.

[0179] The hook 140 may be configured to contact the front portion 531a of the wire. The elastic rib 150 may be configured to contact the rear portion 531b of the wire.

[0180] The hook 140 may be configured to contact the rear portion 531b of the wire. The elastic rib 150 may be configured to contact the front portion 531a of the wire.

[0181] The wire may be the first wire 531. The basket may further include the second wire 532; 533 spaced apart from the first wire 531 along the second direction D2 and extends along the first direction. The duct may further include a support rib 160a; 160b (collectively 160). The support rib 160a; 160b (collectively 160) may be configured to support the second wire 532; 533 while the duct is coupled to the basket.

[0182] The support rib 160 may be configured to contact the second wire 532; 533 to restrict movement of the second wire 532; 533 along the third direction D3 intersecting the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 relative to the duct, while the duct is coupled to the basket.

[0183] The support rib 160a; 160b (collectively 160) may include the first support portion 161a; 161b (collectively 161) formed on a lower portion of the duct and configured to hold an upper portion of the second wire. The support rib 160a; 160b (collectively 160) may include the second support portion 162a; 162b (collectively 162) spaced downwardly from the first support portion and configured to hold a lower portion of the second wire. The support rib 160a; 160b (collectively 160) may include the connecting portion 163a; 163b (collectively 163) connecting the first support portion and the second support portion. The support rib160a; 160b (collectively 160) may include the groove portion 164a; 164b (collectively 164) defined by the first support portion, the second support portion, and the connecting portion, and configured to receive the wire.

[0184] The second wire 532; 533 may include the first extension 5321; 5331 extending along the first direction, the second extension 5322; 5332 bent downwardly from one side of the first extension, and the third extension 5323; 5333 bent downwardly from another side of the first extension. The second support portion 162a; 162b (collectively 162) of the support rib may be configured to contact the second extension 5322; 5332 and the third extension 5323; 5333 to restrict the movement of the second wire 532; 533 in the first direction relative to the duct, while the duct is coupled to the basket.

[0185] A length of the second support portion along the first direction D1 may be configured to correspond to a length between the second extension 5322; 5332 and the third extension 5323; 5333 along the first direction D1.

[0186] The support rib 160 may be among a plurality of support ribs, and the plurality of support ribs 160 may be arranged along the second direction D2. The hook 140 and the elastic rib 150 may be disposed between two of the plurality of support ribs 160.

[0187] The duct 100 may be configured to be coupled to or be decoupled from the basket 53 by moving in the second direction D2 relative to the basket 53.

[0188] The duct may be a first duct 100. The dishwasher 1 may further include: the sump 70 configured to receive water from inside the tub; and the second duct 200 configured to be supplied with water from the sump and to guide the supplied water to the first duct. The first duct 100 may be coupled to the second duct by being introduced into the tub together with the basket, and be detached from the second duct by being withdrawn from the tub together with the basket.

[0189] The dishwasher 1 may further include the spray rotor 500 configured to be supplied with water flowing out of the duct and to spray the supplied water toward the tableware. The duct 100 may further include: the first holder 170 including the outlet and configured to rotatably support an upper portion of the spray rotor 500; and the second holder 180 configured to rotatably support a lower portion of the spray rotor 500.

[0190] The dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes the tub 12, the basket 53, arrangeable inside the tub 12, configured to receive tableware, the basket including a wire 531 extending in a first direction D1, the sump 70 configured to receive water inside the tub, the first duct 200 configured to guide the water supplied from the sump 70, and the second duct 100 configured to guide water supplied from the first duct 200 and couplable to or decouplable from the basket. The second duct 100 is configured to be docked to or undocked from the first duct 200 by moving along a second direction D2 while coupled to the basket. The second duct 100 includes an elastic rib 150. The elastic rib 150 is configured to elastically support the wire 531 to reduce an impact generated when the second duct is docked to or undocked from the first duct.

[0191] The second duct 100 may include the hook 140. The hook 140 may be spaced apart from the elastic rib 150 to place the wire 531 therebetween and configured to contact the wire 531, while the second duct is coupled to the basket.

[0192] The elastic rib 150 may be configured to be elastically deformable along the second direction D2.

[0193] The first direction D1 may be the left-to-right direction, and the second direction D2 may be the front-to-back direction. The wire may be the first wire 531. The basket 53 may include the second wire 532 disposed behind the first wire, and the third wire 533 disposed in front of the first wire. The second duct 100 may include the first support rib 160a disposed behind the elastic rib 150 and configured to hold the second wire 532 while the second duct is coupled to the basket. The second duct 100 may include the second support rib 160b disposed in front of the elastic rib 150 and configured to hold the third wire 533 while the second duct is coupled to the basket.

[0194] The first support rib 160a may include the first support portion 161a formed on a lower portion of the duct and configured to hold an upper portion of the second wire 532, the second support portion 162a spaced downwardly from the first support portion and configured to hold a lower portion of the second wire 532, the first connecting portion 163a connecting the first support portion and the second support portion, and the first groove portion 164a defined by the first support portion, the second support portion, and the first connecting portion, and having a shape open toward the front. The second support rib 160b may include the third support portion 161b formed on the lower portion of the duct and configured to hold an upper portion of the third wire, the fourth support portion 162b spaced downwardly from the third support portion and configured to hold a lower portion of the third wire, a second connecting portion 163b connecting the third support portion and the fourth support portion, and a second groove portion 164b defined by the third support portion, the fourth support portion, and the second connecting portion, and having a shape open toward the front.

[0195] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the first duct 100 may effectively hold the basket 53. The first duct 100 may include the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150, and the hook 140 and the elastic rib 150 may hold the basket 53 substantially in the second direction D2. The elastic rib 150 may elastically support the wire 531 of the basket 53 and may dampen/reduce the impact caused upon insertion and/or withdrawal of the basket 53. The first duct 100 may include the support rib 160, and the support rib 160 may hold the basket 53 substantially in the first direction D1 and the third direction D3.

[0196] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the first duct 100 may be coupled to or detached from the basket 53 by moving substantially along the second direction D2 relative to the basket 53. A separate fastener or tool may not be required for assembling and/or disassembling the first duct 100 and the basket 53. The assembly and/or disassembly of the first duct 100 and the basket 53 may be performed more easily.

[0197] 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.

[0198] 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.