WO2018113912A1

WO2018113912A1 - Washing liquid distrubution device for a dishwasher

Info

Publication number: WO2018113912A1
Application number: PCT/EP2016/081866
Authority: WO
Inventors: Anna DELIN; Kristian REUNANEN
Original assignee: Electrolux Appliances AB
Current assignee: Electrolux Appliances AB
Priority date: 2016-12-20
Filing date: 2016-12-20
Publication date: 2018-06-28
Anticipated expiration: 2019-06-20

Abstract

Herein a washing liquid distribution device (1) for a dishwasher (3) is disclosed. The washing liquid distribution device (1) comprises a holder (5) and an impeller (7). The holder (5) is configured to hold the impeller (7) within a washing chamber (9) of a dishwasher (3), wherein the holder (5) comprises a body portion (11) comprising a washing liquid inlet (15) at a first 5 end (17) of the body portion (11) and wherein the body portion (11) further comprises fastening elements (19, 20) for fastening the washing liquid inlet (15) of the holder (5) to a washing liquid duct (21) of the dishwasher (3). The holder (5) comprises a disc (41) configured to protect the impeller (7). The present disclosure also related to a dishwasher (3) comprising a washing liquid distribution device (1).

Description

WASHING LIQUID DISTRIBUTION DEVICE FOR A DISHWASHER

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a washing liquid distribution device for a dishwasher, comprising a holder and an impeller, wherein the holder is configured to hold the impeller within a washing chamber of a dishwasher. The present invention further relates to dishwasher comprising a washing liquid distribution device.

BACKGROUND

A dishwasher is an apparatus for washing items by using a force of washing liquid directed onto the items by one or more washing liquid distribution devices. Traditionally, a dishwasher comprises washing liquid distribution devices in the form of elongated wash arms comprising nozzles fluidically connected to a pump of the dishwasher, wherein elongated wash arms are rotatably arranged a washing chamber of the dishwasher. During a wash session, such elongated wash arms are arranged to rotate within the washing chamber by the force of washing liquid directed from the nozzles, or by the force of a motor arranged to rotate the elongated wash arm. A dishwasher further usually comprises racks for holding items to be washed within the washing chamber, wherein the elongated wash arms are arranged adjacent to such a rack, usually above or below such a rack. A common problem is that an item in such rack extends into the plane of rotation of elongated wash arm thereby hindering rotation of the wash arm. The washing result will be significantly lowered in case the rotation is hindered.

A further common problem of a traditional wash arm, which potentially lowers the washing result, is that objects, such as food residues, may accumulate and clog the nozzles. A clogged nozzle lowers the washing result since washing liquid is prevented from being directed through the nozzle. Therefore, it is an advantage if the washing liquid distribution device can be removed to be cleaned and maintained. Washing liquid distribution devices comprising impellers have been developed and have several advantages over traditional wash arms. Examples of washing liquid distribution devices comprising impellers are described in the document EP 1232720 A2 and the document EP 2710946 A2. One advantage is that washing liquid distribution devices comprising impellers require less space than traditional wash arms. Since the impellers require less space than traditional wash arms, the risk of stop of rotation of the impeller by objects within the washing chamber is lower than for a traditional wash arm. In addition, since the impellers require less space than traditional wash arms, the washing liquid distribution devices can be arranged vertically in the washing chamber and at positions in the washing chamber in which a traditional washing arm could not be fitted, or would be unsuitable. However, in view of the prior art washing liquid distribution devices comprising impellers, there is room for improvement, especially regarding the above-mentioned problems.

SUMMARY

It is an object of the present invention to provide washing liquid distribution device having a reliable washing liquid distribution while being simple to maintain.

According to an aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a washing liquid distribution device for a dishwasher. The washing liquid distribution device comprises a holder and an impeller. The holder is configured to hold the impeller within a washing chamber of a dishwasher. The holder comprises a body portion comprising a washing liquid inlet at a first end of the body portion. The body portion comprises fastening elements, for fastening the washing liquid inlet of the holder to a washing liquid duct of the dishwasher. The impeller comprises a disc-shaped body provided with a plurality of impeller blades extending from a surface of the disc-shaped body. The body portion comprises one or more nozzles fluidically connected to washing liquid inlet, wherein the one or more nozzles are configured to direct washing liquid onto the impeller blades to rotate the impeller. The holder comprises a disc configured to protect the impeller.

Since the holder comprises a disc configured to protect the impeller, the impeller is protected from objects within the washing chamber hindering rotation of the impeller. Thereby, rotation of the impeller is ensured even when an object in the washing chamber is abutting the washing liquid distribution device since the object will abut the disc of the holder instead of the impeller. In addition, the impeller is protected against damages caused by objects within the washing chamber. As a result, washing liquid distribution of the washing liquid distribution device is further ensured. Further, since the holder comprises a disc, and since the body portion comprises fastening elements, for fastening the washing liquid inlet of the holder to a washing liquid duct of the dishwasher, fastening, as well as removal, of the washing liquid distribution device is facilitated. This since the disc forms a grip surface facilitating fastening and removal of the washing liquid distribution device. Accordingly, a washing liquid distribution device is provided having a reliable washing liquid distribution, while the washing liquid distribution device is simple to maintain. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

Optionally, the impeller is arranged between the disc and the first end of the body portion. Thereby, protection of the impeller from objects within the washing chamber is ensured. Further, fastening and removal of the washing liquid distribution device is further facilitated since the disc may form an outer grip surface facilitating fastening and removal of the washing liquid distribution device, and since the disc may prevent fingers of a user from touching the impeller during fastening or removal of the washing liquid distribution device. Optionally, the disc is arranged at a second end of the holder, wherein the second end is opposite to first end. Thereby, protection of the impeller from objects within the washing chamber is ensured. Further, fastening and removal of the washing liquid distribution device is further facilitated since the disc forms an outer grip surface at the second end facilitating fastening and removal of the washing liquid distribution device, and since the disc may prevent fingers of a user from touching the impeller during fastening or removal of the washing liquid distribution device.

Optionally, the disc-shaped body comprises a through hole in a centre of the disc-shaped body, wherein the body portion is arranged to extend through the through hole, and wherein the body portion further comprises a support structure comprising a support surface adapted to support the impeller by abutting against a surface of the disc-shaped body of the impeller. Thereby, a compact and efficient washing liquid distribution device is provided having a reliable washing liquid distribution. Optionally, the diameter of the disc is equal or greater than the diameter of the disc-shaped body of the impeller. Thereby, the impeller is further protected from objects within the washing chamber, and a user-friendly grip surface is provided facilitating fastening and removal of the washing liquid distribution device. Optionally, the diameter of the disc is greater than the diameter of the disc-shaped body of the impeller, wherein the disc comprises a first surface facing the impeller, and wherein the first surface comprises an annular protrusion at an outer edge of the disc. Thereby, the impeller is even further protected from objects within the washing chamber, since the annular protrusion at the outer edge of the disc also forms a protection of the impeller. In addition, a further improved grip surface facilitating fastening and removal of the washing liquid distribution device is provided since the annular protrusion at the outer edge of the disc also may prevent fingers of a user from touching the impeller during fastening or removal of the washing liquid distribution device.

Optionally, the body portion comprises an inner volume, wherein the one or more nozzles comprises a plurality of nozzles fluidically connected to the washing liquid inlet via the inner volume, wherein plurality of nozzles is configured to direct washing liquid from the washing liquid inlet onto the impeller blades to rotate the impeller. Thereby, a compact and efficient washing liquid distribution device is provided having a reliable washing liquid distribution. Optionally, the holder comprises guiding structures, wherein each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles is fluidically connected to the inner volume of the body portion via a guiding structure, and wherein the guiding structures are configured to guide washing liquid from the inner volume to the nozzles. Thereby, a controlled and efficient distribution of washing liquid to the impeller blades is provided, which may require less flowrate of washing liquid to rotate the impeller since a plurality of nozzles may provide a higher velocity of washing liquid than a solution without nozzles, or a solution with one nozzle. Further, since the holder comprises the guiding structures, the nozzles will direct washing liquid from the inner volume onto the impeller blades in an even manner being less affected by an uneven flow pattern in the washing liquid duct.

Optionally, the holder comprises a guiding structure body arranged in said inner volume, and wherein the guiding structure body comprises the guiding structures. Thereby, the guiding structures can be provided in a cost-efficient manner since they can be provided in one body. Further, according to some embodiments, the guiding structure body is removably arranged in said inner volume. Thereby, a user may easily perform maintenance of the washing liquid distribution device by removing the guiding structure body and clean and remove any particles stuck in the inner volume of the holder, as well as in any of the nozzles.

Optionally, the impeller blades extend from the surface of the disc-shaped body between an inner radius and an outer radius of the disc-shaped body, and wherein the disc is arranged to protect at least a portion of the area between the inner radius and an outer radius of the discshaped body. Thereby, at least a portion of the area of the surface from which the impeller blades extend is protected from objects within the washing chamber hindering rotation of the impeller.

Optionally, the size of the diameter of the disc essentially corresponds to two outer radiuses of the disc-shaped body, and wherein the width of the disc, in a radial direction of the disc, essentially corresponds to the difference between the outer radius and the inner radius of the disc-shaped body. Thereby, essentially the whole area of the surface from which the impeller blades extend is protected from objects within the washing chamber hindering rotation of the impeller. Still, an efficient washing liquid distribution capability is provided since the disc will not cover areas outside of the outer radius as well as areas inside the inner radius of the disc-shaped body from which the impeller blades extend.

Optionally, the impeller blades comprise driving blades being angled in a first direction in relation to a radial direction of the disc-shaped body of the impeller to cause rotation of the impeller when washing liquid is directed onto the driving blades, wherein the impeller blades further comprise at least one backflow blade being angled in a second direction in relation to the radial direction of the disc-shaped body, and wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction. Since the impeller blades comprise at least one backflow blade being angled in the second direction, washing liquid will be distributed differently from the backflow blade than from the driving blades being angled in a first direction with regard to distribution angle and distribution velocity from the impeller. Thereby, a more varying distribution pattern from the washing liquid distribution device is provided. As a result, washing liquid distribution capability is improved. In addition, washing liquid hitting the backflow blade may be directed in directions toward an area between the inner radius and a centre of the holder into the washing chamber. Thereby, the washing liquid distribution capability of the washing liquid distribution device can be further improved.

Optionally, the impeller blades comprise at least one rebound blade comprising a parabolic or cup-shaped portion essentially facing a centre of the impeller. Thereby, washing liquid hitting the parabolic or cup-shaped portion of the rebound blade may rebound towards an area between the inner radius and a centre of the holder into the washing chamber. Thereby, the washing liquid distribution capability of the washing liquid distribution device can be further improved. In addition, washing liquid being rebound toward the centre of the of the impeller may strike against washing liquid being directed in a direction towards the impeller blades. Thereby, an even more varying distribution pattern from the washing liquid distribution device can be provided which further improves washing liquid distribution capability.

Optionally, the diameter of the disc is at least 50% of the diameter of the disc-shaped body of the impeller. Thereby, the impeller is protected from objects within the washing chamber, and a proper grip surface is provided facilitating fastening and removal of the washing liquid distribution device. Optionally, the diameter of the disc is at least 80% of the diameter of the disc-shaped body of the impeller. Thereby, the impeller is further protected from objects within the washing chamber, and a proper grip surface is provided facilitating fastening and removal of the washing liquid distribution device.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a dishwasher comprising a reliable washing liquid distribution device being simple to maintain. According to a further aspect of the invention, the further object is achieved by a dishwasher comprising a washing chamber and a washing liquid distribution device according to some embodiments, wherein the washing liquid distribution device is arranged to distribute washing liquid inside the washing chamber of the dishwasher. Since the dishwasher comprises a washing liquid distribution device according to some embodiments of above, a dishwasher is provided comprising a reliable washing liquid distribution device being simple to maintain.

As a result, the above mentioned further object is achieved. Further features of, and advantages with, the present invention will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various aspects of the invention, including its particular features and advantages, will be readily understood from the example embodiments discussed in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates a washing liquid distribution device for a dishwasher, in a disassembled state,

Fig. 2 illustrates the washing liquid distribution device illustrated in Fig. 1 , in an assembled state,

Fig. 3 illustrates the impeller of the washing liquid distribution device illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2,

Fig. 4 illustrates a washing liquid distribution device for a dishwasher, according to some further embodiments,

Fig. 5 illustrates the holder of the washing liquid distribution device illustrated in Fig. 4, and Fig. 6 illustrates a dishwasher comprising a washing chamber and a washing liquid distribution device, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects of the present invention will now be described more fully. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Well-known functions or constructions will not necessarily be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity.

Fig. 1 illustrates a washing liquid distribution device 1 for a dishwasher, according to some embodiments. In Fig. 1 , the washing liquid distribution device 1 is illustrated in a

disassembled state. The washing liquid distribution device 1 comprises a holder 5 and an impeller 7. The holder 5 is configured to hold the impeller 7 within a washing chamber of a dishwasher. The holder 5 comprises a body portion 1 1 comprising a washing liquid inlet 15 at a first end 17 of the body portion 1 1 . The body portion 1 1 further comprises fastening elements 20 for fastening the washing liquid inlet 15 of the holder 5 to a washing liquid duct of the dishwasher. According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 1 , the fastening elements 19 comprise threads. The washing liquid distribution device 1 illustrated in Fig. 1 is configured to be fastened to a washing liquid duct of the dishwasher comprising threads matching the threads of the holder 5.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the body portion 1 1 comprises an inner volume 23 f luidically connected to the washing liquid inlet 15. The impeller 7 comprises a disc-shaped body 25 provided with a plurality of impeller blades 27 extending from a surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25. The disc-shaped body 25 comprises a through hole 31 in a centre of the disc-shaped body 25. The body portion 1 1 is arranged to extend through the through hole 31 . According to the illustrated embodiments, the body portion 1 1 is cylindrical. The body portion 1 1 further comprises a support structure 33 extending from the body portion 1 1 , wherein the support structure 33 comprises a support surface 35 adapted to support the impeller 7 by abutting against a surface 37 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7. According to the illustrated embodiments, the nozzles 39 comprises a plurality of nozzles 39 f luidically connected to the washing liquid inlet 15 via the inner volume 23. The plurality of nozzles 39 are configured to direct washing liquid from the washing liquid inlet 15, via the inner volume 23, onto the impeller blades 27 to rotate the impeller 7. Since the body portion 1 1 comprises the nozzles 39, a controlled and efficient distribution of washing liquid to the impeller blades 27 is provided, which may require less flowrate of washing liquid to rotate the impeller 7 since the nozzles 39 may provide a higher velocity of washing liquid than a solution without nozzles, or a solution with one nozzle. The washing liquid may comprise water, or a mixture of water, detergent and/or softener. According to further embodiments, which are not illustrated, the holder comprises one or more nozzles directing washing liquid towards a conical centre section of the impeller in a direction essentially coinciding with the axis of rotation of the impeller 7. Thus, according to such embodiments, the impeller 7 may comprise a conical centre section, instead of the through hole 31 , wherein the conical centre section is configured to distribute washing liquid to the impeller blades 13 by guiding washing liquid from one or more nozzles directing washing liquid in a direction essentially coinciding with the axis of rotation of the impeller 7. In such embodiments, one nozzle may be arranged to direct washing liquid towards the conical centre section of the impeller in the direction essentially coinciding with the axis of rotation of the impeller 7

According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 1 , the holder 5 comprises a disc 41 at a second end 43 of the holder 5, wherein the second end 43 is opposite to first end 17. The disc 41 is configured to protect the impeller 7 from objects within a washing chamber hindering rotation of the impeller 7 and is configured to protect the impeller 7 from objects within the washing chamber potentially causing damages to the impeller 7. Further, the disc 41 , provides a grip surface facilitating fastening and removal of the washing liquid distribution device 1 to or from a washing liquid duct of the dishwasher. For example, in the illustrated embodiments, a user may grip an outer edge 49 of the disc 41 to rotate the holder 5 to tighten or unscrew the holder 5 from the washing liquid duct.

Since the holder 5, according to the illustrated embodiments, comprises the body portion 1 1 , the fastening elements 20, the nozzles 39, the support structure 33 and the disc 41 , all these elements can be provided in one body, as a single piece, for example in a polymeric material. Thereby, the washing liquid distribution device 1 can be provided in a cost-efficient manner.

According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 1 , the diameter D1 of the disc is slightly larger than the diameter D2 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7. However, according to some embodiments, the diameter D1 of the disc 41 is between 50% and 80% of the diameter D2 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7. According to further embodiments, the diameter D1 of the disc 41 is between 80% and 1 10% of the diameter D2 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7. According to some embodiments, the diameter D1 of the disc is 1 -10% or 3-7% larger than the diameter D2 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7. According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 1 , the disc 41 comprises a first surface 45 facing the impeller 7, wherein the first surface 45 comprises an annular protrusion 47 at an outer edge 49 of the disc 41 . Due to the annular protrusion 47, the impeller 7 is further protected from objects hindering rotation of the impeller 7.

The plurality of nozzles 39 are configured to direct washing liquid from the washing liquid inlet 15 onto the impeller blades 27 to rotate the impeller 7.

According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 1 , the holder 5 comprises guiding structures 51 . Each nozzle 39 of plurality of nozzles 39 is fluidically connected to the inner volume 23 of the body portion 1 1 via a guiding structure 51. The guiding structures 51 are configured to guide washing liquid from the inner volume 23 to the respective nozzle 39. Thereby, the nozzles 39 will direct washing liquid from the inner volume 23 onto the impeller blades 27 in an even manner being less affected by an uneven flow pattern in the washing liquid duct. As a result, any differences in flow rate of washing liquid directed from each nozzle 39 is kept low.

According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 1 , the holder 5 comprises a guiding structure body 53 arrangeable in said inner volume 23, wherein the guiding structure body 53 comprises the guiding structures 51 . According to some embodiments, the guiding structure body 53 is removably arranged in said inner volume 23 of the of the body portion 1 1.

Thereby, a user may more easily perform maintenance of the washing liquid distribution device 1 by removing the guiding structure body 53 and easily clean and remove any particles stuck in the inner volume 23 of the holder 5, as well as any particles stuck in any of the nozzles 39.

According to the embodiments illustrated, the one or more nozzles 39 are configured to direct washing liquid onto the impeller blades 27 in essentially radial directions of the impeller 7.

Fig. 2 illustrates the washing liquid distribution device 1 illustrated in Fig. 1 , in an assembled state. As illustrated, the impeller 7 is arranged at a position of the holder 5 between the first end and the second end, i.e. between the disc 41 and the first end 17 of the holder 5, and thus also between the disc 41 and the inlet of the holder 5. Further, as is illustrated, the impeller blades 27 extend from the surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7 between an inner radius r1 and an outer radius r2 of the disc-shaped body 25. According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the disc 41 comprises a first surface 45 facing the surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7 from which the plurality of impeller blades 27 extends. As illustrated in Fig. 2, the disc 41 is arranged to protect the area between the inner radius r1 and an outer radius r2. Thereby, the impeller blades 27, and thus also the impeller 7, is protected from objects within the washing chamber.

Further, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2, the size of the diameter D1 of the disc 41 essentially corresponds to two outer radiuses r2 of the disc-shaped body 25. The width w of the disc 41 , in a radial direction of the disc 41 , essentially corresponds to the difference between the outer radius r2 and the inner radius r1 of the disc-shaped body 25. Thereby, the impeller 7 is further protected from objects within the washing chamber. In addition, an efficient washing liquid distribution capability is provided since the disc 41 will not cover areas outside of the outer radius r2 as well as areas inside the inner radius r1 of the disc-shaped body 25 from which the impeller blades 27 extend. According to the illustrated embodiments, the holder 5 comprises two arms 42. The disc 41 is arranged to the body portion of the holder 5 via the arms 42. Two apertures 46 are provided between the arms 42 and the inner radius r1 of the disc 41 . The holder may comprise another number of arms 42 than two, for example one, three, four, five, six, etc. Due to the apertures 46, washing liquid distribution capability of the washing liquid distribution device is further improved, since washing liquid can be directed also through the apertures 46 into a washing chamber of a dishwasher, as is further explained below.

Fig. 3 illustrates the impeller 7 of the washing liquid distribution device 1 illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The impeller 7 comprises a disc-shaped body 25 provided with a plurality of impeller blades 27 extending from a surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25. In the illustrated embodiments, the impeller blades 27 extend from the surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25 essentially in directions coinciding with the axis of rotation Ar of the impeller 7. The discshaped body 25 comprises a through hole 31 in a centre c of the disc-shaped body 25.

The impeller blades 27 comprises driving blades 54 being angled in a first direction in relation to a radial direction r of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7 to cause rotation of the impeller 7 when the nozzles direct washing liquid from the inner volume onto the driving blades 54. The impeller blades 27 further comprises two rebound blades 57 each comprising a parabolic or cup-shaped portion 59 essentially facing a centre c of the impeller 7. Due to the rebound blades 57, washing liquid hitting the parabolic or cup-shaped portion 59 of the rebound blades 57 will rebound towards the centre c of the of the impeller 7 and may rebound through the apertures 46 illustrated in Fig. 2. As a result, washing liquid distribution of the washing liquid distribution device will be further improved since the washing liquid distribution device also will distribute washing liquid through the apertures 46 in directions different from washing liquid directed from other impeller blades. The impeller 7 may comprise another number of rebound blades 57 than two, for example one, three, four, five, six, etc.

In addition, according to the embodiments of the impeller 7 illustrated in Fig. 3, the impeller blades 27 further comprises a backflow blade 55 being angled in a second direction in relation to the radial direction r of the disc-shaped body 25, where the second direction is opposite to the first direction. Thereby, washing liquid hitting the backflow blade 55 may also rebound towards the centre c of the of the impeller 7 and through the apertures 46 illustrated in Fig. 2, which further improves the washing liquid distribution capability of the washing liquid distribution device 1 . Further, rotational velocity of the impeller 7 may vary during one revolution of the impeller 7 since the backflow blade 55 is angled in the second direction being opposite to the first direction of the driving blades 54, and will thereby counteract rotation, instead of contributing to rotation, when a jet of washing liquid, or a portion of a washing liquid flow, is directed onto the backflow blade 55. As a result thereof, washing liquid distribution capability is further improved. Further, as illustrated, the impeller blades 27 may comprise at least one blade 56 having a first portion 56.1 being angled in the first direction and a second portion 56.2 being angled in the second direction.

The driving blades 54 comprises a first driving blade 54.1 and a second driving blade 54.2, wherein the second driving blade 54.2 is provided with a different average angle in relation to the radial direction r of the disc-shaped body 25 than the first driving blade 54.1 . Thereby, washing liquid will be distributed differently from second driving blade 54.2 than from the first driving blade 54.1 with regard to distribution angle and distribution velocity from the impeller 7. Thereby, a more varying distribution pattern from the washing liquid distribution device is provided. As a result, washing liquid distribution capability is improved. Further, rotational velocity of the impeller 7 may vary during one revolution of the impeller 7 due to the different average angles of the first and second driving blades 54.1 , 54.2. As a result thereof, washing liquid distribution capability is further improved. Further, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 3, the driving blades 54 comprises a third driving blade 54.3 provided with a different average angle than the first and second driving blades 54.1 , 54.2 which further improves the above mentioned effects. The average angle in relation to the radial direction r of the disc-shaped body 25 may be defined as the average angle along an active portion of an impeller blade 27, wherein the active portion of the impeller blade 27 is a portion of the blade being arranged to guide washing liquid. The average angle in relation to the radial direction r of the disc-shaped body 25 may further be defined as the average angle of an infinite number of angles measured along the active portion of the impeller blade 27. The feature that an impeller blade 27 is angled in a direction in relation to the radial direction r of the disc-shaped body 25, may also be expressed as that the impeller blade 27 is angled in a direction towards the radial direction r of the disc-shaped body 25.

The surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25, from which the plurality of impeller blades 27 extends, may be curve-shaped. Thereby, washing liquid directed onto the impeller blades 27 will be guided along the curve-shaped surface 29 and will be deflected into areas of a washing chamber otherwise not reached. As a result, washing liquid distribution capability of the washing liquid distribution device is further improved.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25, from which the plurality of impeller blades 27 extends, is convex. Thereby, washing liquid directed onto the impeller blades 27 will be guided along the convex surface 29 and will be deflected into areas of a washing chamber being opposite to a surface normal of the surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25. As a result, washing liquid distribution capability is further improved.

According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 1 , the disc 41 comprises a first surface 45 facing the surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7 from which the plurality of impeller blades 27 extends. Further, the support structure 33, which comprises the support surface 35 adapted to support the impeller 7, extends from the body portion 1 1 at a distance from the disc 41 , i.e. at a distance from the second end 43 and thus in a position of the body portion between the first end 17 and the second end 43. Further, the support surface 35 of the support structure 33 is adapted to support the impeller 7 by abutting against a surface 37 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7 having a surface normal coinciding with a surface normal of the surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7 from which the plurality of impeller blades 27 extends. According to some embodiments, the support surface 35 of the support structure 33 is adapted to support the impeller 7 by abutting against the surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7 from which the plurality of impeller blades 27 extends. Fig. 4 illustrates a washing liquid distribution device 1 for a dishwasher, according to some further embodiments. The washing liquid distribution device 1 comprises a holder 5 and an impeller 7. The holder 5 is configured to hold the impeller 7 within a washing chamber of a dishwasher.

Fig. 5 illustrates the holder 5 of the washing liquid distribution device 1 illustrated in Fig. 4. Below, reference is made to Fig. 4 as well as Fig. 5. The holder 5 comprises a body portion 1 1 comprising a washing liquid inlet 15 at a first end 17 of the body portion 1 1 and wherein the body portion 1 1 further comprises fastening elements 19 for fastening the washing liquid inlet 15 of the holder 5 to a washing liquid duct of the dishwasher. According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the fastening elements 19 comprise slot connections. The washing liquid distribution device 1 illustrated in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 is configured to be fastened to a washing liquid duct of the dishwasher comprising matching fastening elements for the slot connections.

The body portion 1 1 comprises an inner volume 23 fluidically connected to the washing liquid inlet 15. The impeller 7 comprises a disc-shaped body 25 provided with a plurality of impeller blades 27 extending from a surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25. The disc-shaped body 25 comprises a through hole 31 in a centre of the disc-shaped body 25, wherein the body portion 1 1 extends through the through hole 31 , when in an assembled state as is illustrated in Fig. 4. As illustrated, the body portion 1 1 may be cylindrical.

Further, the body portion 1 1 of the holder 5 comprises a support structure 33 extending from the body portion 1 1 , wherein the support structure 33 comprises a support surface 35 adapted to support the impeller 7 by abutting against a surface of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7. According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 4 and 5, the support structure 33 extends from the body portion 1 1 essentially at the second end 43 of the body portion 1 1 . The body portion 1 1 comprises a one or more nozzles 39 configured to direct washing liquid from the inner volume 23 onto the impeller blades 27 to rotate the impeller 7. Since the body portion 1 1 comprises the nozzles 39, a controlled and efficient distribution of washing liquid to the impeller blades 27 is provided, which may require less flowrate of washing liquid to rotate the impeller 7 since the nozzles 39 may provide a higher velocity of washing liquid than a solution without nozzles The holder 5 comprises a disc 41 at a second end 43 of the holder 5, wherein the second end 43 is opposite to first end 17. Due to the disc 41 , the impeller 7 is protected from objects within a washing chamber. As illustrated in Fig. 4, the impeller 7 is arranged at a position of the holder 5 between the first end 17 and the second end 43, i.e. between the inlet 15 and the disc 41 of the holder 5. Further, the disc 41 , arranged at the second end 43 of the holder 5, provides a grip surface facilitating fastening and removal of the washing liquid distribution device 1 to or from washing liquid duct of the dishwasher. For example, in the illustrated embodiments, a user may grip an outer edge 49 of the disc 41 to rotate the holder 5 to tighten or remove the holder 5 from the washing liquid duct.

According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 4, the diameter D1 of the disc is slightly larger than the diameter D2 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7. Thereby, protection of the impeller 7 is ensured and a proper grip surface facilitating fastening and removal of the washing liquid distribution device 1 is provided. According to some embodiments, the diameter D1 of the disc is 1 -10% or 3-7% larger than the diameter D2 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7. According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the disc 41 comprises a first surface 45 facing the impeller 7. The surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7, from which the plurality of impeller blades 27 extend, faces in the same direction as the first surface 45 of the disc 41 . Thus, according to these embodiments, the support surface 35 of the support structure 33 is adapted to support the impeller 7 by abutting the surface of the impeller 7 being opposite to the surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7 from which the plurality of impeller blades 27 extend.

As seen in Fig. 5, according to these embodiments, the holder comprises four arms 42 being configured to hold the disc 41 to the holder 5 at the second end 43 of the holder 5. Four apertures 46 are provided between the arms 42 and an inner radius of the disc 41 . The holder 5 may comprise another number of arms than two, for example one, three, four, five, six, etc.

According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 4, the surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7 is provided with two impeller apertures 50.

Due to the impeller apertures 50 and the apertures 46 provided between the arms 42 and an inner radius of the disc 41 , washing liquid can be distributed through the impeller apertures 50 and the apertures 46 provided between the arms 42 and an inner radius of the disc 41 into a washing chamber. As a result, the washing liquid distribution capability of the washing liquid distribution device is further improved. The surface 29 of the disc-shaped body 25 of the impeller 7 may be provided with another number of impeller apertures 50 than two, for example one, three, four, five, six, etc

Fig. 6 illustrates a dishwasher 3 comprising a washing chamber 9 and a washing liquid distribution device 1 , according to some embodiments. The washing liquid distribution device 1 is arranged to distribute washing liquid inside the washing chamber 9 of the dishwasher 3. The dishwasher 3 illustrated in Fig. 2 comprises a washing liquid distribution device 1 arranged at an upper inner wall 60 of the washing chamber 9. The washing liquid distribution device 1 is fastened to a washing liquid duct 21 of the dishwasher 3. The dishwasher 3 may comprise a washing liquid distribution device 1 at another position in the washing chamber 9, such as at side walls 62 or in a lower portion 64 of the washing chamber 9. In addition, the dishwasher 3 may comprise two or more washing liquid distribution devices 1 arranged at different positions within the washing chamber 9. The washing chamber 9 is configured to accommodate racks for holding items to be washed within the washing chamber 9. For clarity reasons, such racks and items to be washed are not illustrated in Fig. 2. Likewise, the dishwasher 3 comprises a dishwasher door pivotally arranged at the dishwasher 3 to allow access to the washing chamber 9 and to provide a closing surface of the washing chamber 9. The dishwasher door is not illustrated in Fig. 1 for clarity reasons.

As used herein, the term "comprising" or "comprises" is open-ended, and includes one or more stated features, elements, steps, components or functions but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, components, functions or groups thereof.

Claims

1. A washing liquid distribution device (1 ) for a dishwasher (3), wherein the washing liquid distribution device (1 ) comprises a holder (5) and an impeller (7), wherein the holder (5) is configured to hold the impeller (7) within a washing chamber (9) of a dishwasher (3), wherein the holder (5) comprises a body portion (1 1 ) comprising a washing liquid inlet

(15) at a first end (17) of the body portion (1 1 ), wherein the body portion (1 1 ) comprises fastening elements (19, 20) for fastening the washing liquid inlet (15) of the holder (5) to a washing liquid duct (21 ) of the dishwasher (3), wherein the impeller (7) comprises a disc-shaped body (25) provided with a plurality of impeller blades (27) extending from a surface (29) of the disc-shaped body (25), wherein the body portion (1 1 ) comprises one or more nozzles (39) fluidically connected to washing liquid inlet (15), and wherein the one or more nozzles (39) are configured to direct washing liquid onto the impeller blades (27) to rotate the impeller (7), characterized in that the holder (5) further comprises a disc (41 ) configured to protect the impeller (7).

2. The device (1 ) according to claim 1 , wherein the impeller (7) is arranged between the disc (41 ) and the first end (17) of the body portion (1 1 ).

3. The device (1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the disc (41 ) is arranged at a second end (43) of the holder (5), wherein the second end (43) is opposite to first end (17).

4. The device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the disc-shaped body (25) comprises a through hole (31 ) in a centre of the disc-shaped body (25), wherein the body portion (1 1 ) is arranged to extend through the through hole (31 ), and wherein the body portion (1 1 ) further comprises a support structure (33) comprising a support surface (35) adapted to support the impeller (7) by abutting against a surface (37) of the disc-shaped body (25) of the impeller (7).

5. The device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the diameter (D1 ) of the disc (41 ) is equal or greater than the diameter (D2) of the disc-shaped body (25) of the impeller (7).

6. The device (1 ) according any one of the claims 1 - 4, wherein the diameter (D1 ) of the disc (41 ) is greater than the diameter (D2) of the disc-shaped body (25) of the impeller (7), wherein the disc (41 ) comprises a first surface (45) facing the impeller (7), and wherein the first surface (45) comprises an annular protrusion (47) at an outer edge (49) of the disc (41 ).

7. The device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more nozzles (39) are configured to direct washing liquid onto the impeller blades (27) in essentially radial directions of the impeller (7) 8. The device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body portion (1 1 ) is cylindrical.

9. The device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body portion (1 1 ) comprises an inner volume (23), wherein the one or more nozzles (39) comprises a plurality of nozzles (39) fluidically connected to the washing liquid inlet (15) via the inner volume (23), wherein plurality of nozzles (39) is configured to direct washing liquid from the washing liquid inlet (15) onto the impeller blades (27) to rotate the impeller (7).

10. The device (1 ) according to claim 9, wherein the holder (5) comprises guiding structures (51 ), wherein each nozzle (39) of plurality of nozzles (39) is fluidically connected to the inner volume (23) of the body portion (1 1 ) via a guiding structure (51 ), and wherein the guiding structures (51 ) are configured to guide washing liquid from the inner volume (23) to the nozzles (39). 11 . The device (1 ) according to claim 10, wherein the holder (5) comprises a guiding

structure body (53) arranged in said inner volume (23), and wherein the guiding structure body (53) comprises the guiding structures (51 ).

12. The device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the impeller blades (27) extend from the surface (29) of the disc-shaped body (25) between an inner radius

(r1 ) and an outer radius (r2) of the disc-shaped body (25), and wherein the disc (41 ) is arranged to protect at least a portion of the area between the inner radius (r1 ) and an outer radius (r2) of the disc-shaped body (25). 13. The device (1 ) according to claim 12, wherein the size of the diameter (D1 ) of the disc (41 ) essentially corresponds to two outer radiuses (r2) of the disc-shaped body (25), and wherein the width (w) of the disc (41 ), in a radial direction of the disc (41 ), essentially corresponds to the difference between the outer radius (r2) and the inner radius (r1 ) of the disc-shaped body (25).

14. The device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the impeller blades (27) comprise driving blades (54) being angled in a first direction in relation to a radial direction (r) of the disc-shaped body (25) of the impeller (7) to cause rotation of the impeller (7) when washing liquid is directed onto the driving blades (54), wherein the impeller blades (27) further comprise at least one backflow blade (55) being angled in a second direction in relation to the radial direction (r) of the disc-shaped body (25), and wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

5. The device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the impeller blades (27) comprise at least one rebound blade (57) comprising a parabolic or cup-shaped portion (59) essentially facing a centre (c) of the impeller (7).

6. A dishwasher (3) comprising a washing chamber (9) and a washing liquid distribution device (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the washing liquid distribution device (1 ) is arranged to distribute washing liquid inside the washing chamber (9) of the dishwasher (3).