CA1288666C - Mechanically actuated detergent dispenser for dishwasher - Google Patents
Mechanically actuated detergent dispenser for dishwasherInfo
- Publication number
- CA1288666C CA1288666C CA000544353A CA544353A CA1288666C CA 1288666 C CA1288666 C CA 1288666C CA 000544353 A CA000544353 A CA 000544353A CA 544353 A CA544353 A CA 544353A CA 1288666 C CA1288666 C CA 1288666C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- trigger
- latch
- lever
- link
- cover
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
- A47L15/42—Details
- A47L15/44—Devices for adding cleaning agents; Devices for dispensing cleaning agents, rinsing aids or deodorants
- A47L15/4409—Devices for adding cleaning agents; Devices for dispensing cleaning agents, rinsing aids or deodorants by tipping containers or opening their lids, e.g. with the help of a programmer
Landscapes
- Washing And Drying Of Tableware (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Structure is provided for dispensing an additive into a wash chamber of a dishwashing apparatus at a predeter-mined stage in an operating cycle for the apparatus.
A reservoir is provided for a supply of additive. A cover is movable between a closed position, wherein it seals the reservoir and an open position, wherein the reservoir is in communication with the wash chamber. The timer mechanism moves a link through a prescribed path as the dishwashing apparatus cycles and at one stage in the cycle moves the link through a portion of the path in a first direction and at another stage the link retraces the path portion in an opposite direction. As the link moves in the first direction in the path portion it intercepts and moves a trigger arm and an associated member so that the cover moves from its closed position to its open position.
Movement of the link in a direction opposite to the first direction causes the trigger arm to move relative to its associated member as the link portion encounters and moves beyond the trigger arm without moving the cover so that the cover will be maintained in its closed position.
Structure is provided for dispensing an additive into a wash chamber of a dishwashing apparatus at a predeter-mined stage in an operating cycle for the apparatus.
A reservoir is provided for a supply of additive. A cover is movable between a closed position, wherein it seals the reservoir and an open position, wherein the reservoir is in communication with the wash chamber. The timer mechanism moves a link through a prescribed path as the dishwashing apparatus cycles and at one stage in the cycle moves the link through a portion of the path in a first direction and at another stage the link retraces the path portion in an opposite direction. As the link moves in the first direction in the path portion it intercepts and moves a trigger arm and an associated member so that the cover moves from its closed position to its open position.
Movement of the link in a direction opposite to the first direction causes the trigger arm to move relative to its associated member as the link portion encounters and moves beyond the trigger arm without moving the cover so that the cover will be maintained in its closed position.
Description
P~-5352-Q-~W-US~
~
MECHANICALLY ACTUATED
DETERGENT DI5PENS~ ~o _ lSHWASHER
Backqround of the Invention 1. Field o~ the_Invention This invention relate~ to dishwashing apparatus and, more particularly, to structure for controlling the release of an additive into a wash chamber at a predeter~nined stage in an operating cycle.
~
MECHANICALLY ACTUATED
DETERGENT DI5PENS~ ~o _ lSHWASHER
Backqround of the Invention 1. Field o~ the_Invention This invention relate~ to dishwashing apparatus and, more particularly, to structure for controlling the release of an additive into a wash chamber at a predeter~nined stage in an operating cycle.
2. Description of the Prior Art ~t is known to provide a cover for a reservoir and an associated solenoid controlled by a timer to automatically move the cover to an open position at a predetermined stage in an operating cycle, so that an additive is released. It is also known to provide a mechanical linkage which is operated by the timer mechanism to control the cover, as exemplified in each of U.S. Patent 2,872,076, to Bloom and U.S. Patent Nos. 3,012,565 and 3,102,664, hoth to Lines.
In each of the Bloom and I.ines patents, a timer mechanism, through an associated cam and following linkage, opens a cover ~or a reservoir at a predete~nined stage in an operating cycle so that the additive in the reservoir is released into the wash chamber. The principal drawback with such structure is that if operation is interrupted in mid-cycle by the user and the user manually resets the timer, khe cover will be open at the beginning of the cycle PA-5352-O~DW~USA
and the additive will discharge before the stage in the cycle where discharge is contsmplated as, for example, during a later wash cycle. Alternatively, the user would have to open th~ door and manually reclose the cover, which is inconvenient.
This problem is also contended with where metered delivery of an additive occurR automatically in an operating cycle. If a user manually cycles the apparatus, the release of multiple charges of additive may result.
Summary of the Invention The present invention iB specifically directed to overaoming the deficiencies in the prior art structures in a novel and simple manner.
According to the invention, structure is provided for dispensing an additive into a wash chamber of a dishwashing apparatus at a predetermined stage in an operating cycle for the apparatus. A reservoir is provided for a supply of additive. A cover is movable between a closed position, wherein it seals the reservoir and an open position, wherein the reservoir is in communication with the wash chamber.
The timer mechanism moves a link through a prescribed path as the dishwashing apparatus cycles and at one stage in the cycle moves the link through a portion of the path in a first direction and at another stage the link retraces the path portion in an opposite direction. As the link moves in the ~irst direction in the path portion lt intercepts and moves a trigger arm and an associatad member so that the cover moves rom its closed position to its open position.
Movement of the link in a direction opposita to the ~irst direction causes the trigger arm to move relative to its associated member as the link portion encounters and moves beyond the trigger arm without moving the cover so that the cover will be maintained in its closed position.
In one embodiment, a cover is provided and is movable pivotably between a closed position, wherein it seals a detergent containing reservoir, and an open position, wherein the reservoir is exposed to the wash chamber. The cover is normally biased to its open position and is maintained in .its closed position by a movable latch and associated lever. The trigger arm is pivotably mounted relative to the lever and upon being rotated by the link in one direction bears on the lever and shifts the latch so that the cover opens. Movement o~ the link in the opposite direction pivots the trigger arm relative to the lever so that the lever and latch remain stationary and the cover is maintained in the closed position.
The invention may also be incorporated into structure wherein automatic, metered delivery o~ a charge o~ liquid from a container occurs during the operating cycle. In one exemplary structure, a plunger is spring biased to a sealing position on a liquid additive container. As the link moves ?'J~ PA 5352-0--DW-USA
in one direction, a portion thereo~ engages an extension of the plunger and urges the plunger out of sealing engagement.
The link moves against and beyond the extension in the path portion and upon the link passlng the extension, the plunger reseats. MovemPnt of the link in the opposite direction collapses the extension without unseating the plunger.
Another aspect of the invention i6 the provision of a cam member which cooperates with the link so that the plunger is unseated only for a time sufficient to discharge the liquid additive. If the timer mechanism is manually cycled, as by rapidly rotating a control knob for the timer, the plunger will be only instantaneously unseated. Thus only a minimal amount of additive will be released.
Accordingly, through a very simple mechanical structure, inadvertent release of the cover upon manually resetting of the timer mechanism is prevented.
Brief Description of the Drawinqs Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a dishwashing apparatus incorporating additive dispensing structure according to the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a perspective view o~ the additive dispensing structure on the inside of a door for the dishwashing apparatus and with a cover for a detergent reservoir in a closed position, - ~ 28~66 PA-5352-O-DW USA
Fig. 3 ~g a perspective view of the detergent reservoir in Fig. 2 with the cover in an open position;
Fig. 4 is an enlarged 6ectional view of the detergent reservoir and associated Gover generally along line 4~4 o~
Fig. ~;
Fig~ 5 is a front perspectiv~ view o~ the additive dispensing structure at a stage in the operating cycle prior to release of the cover for the detergent reservoir;
Fig. 6 ls a view similar to that in Fig. 5 with the detergent cover released to an open position:
Fig. 7 i~ a view similar to that in Figs. 5 and 6 with the di~pensing structure arranged ko release a li~uid additive;
Fig. 8 is a view similar to that in Figs. 5-7 after the liquid additive has been released;
Fig. 9 i~ an enlarged, sectional view of actuating structure ~or release o~ the liquid additive in a position prior to relea~e thereof;
Fiy. 10 i~ a view similar to that in Fig. 9 at the point of release o~ the liquid additive:
Fig. 11 is an enlarged, fragmentary, front elevation view of structure ~or controlling the interconnection o~ two elements on the dispensing structure; and Fig. 12 is a rear elevation view o~ a reservoir or containing liquid additive.
36~
Detailed Descri~tion of the Dr_ inqs In ~ig. 1 a dishwashing apparatus suitable for the incorporation of the present lnvention is shown at lo. T~le apparatus in F~g. 1 is an under-the-counter design and is floor mounted so that the top of the apparatus 10 resides closely beneath the underside 12 of a counter 14. A wash chamber at 15 accepts a plurality of racks for supporting dishes and utensils. The wash chamber 15 has an opening at its front which is accessed through a hinged door 16, shown in Fig. 1 in its closed position. The door 16 has an associated console 18 which houses the electrical controls for the dishwashing apparatus, including a conventional timer mechanism 20. The console 18 supports a vant 21, operator controls 22 and a knob 24 through which the user can manually cycle the timer mechanism 20.
The invention is embodied in the additive dispensiny structure shown generally in phantom at 26 in Fig. 1, which structure is mounted on the door 16 bshlnd the outside front door surface 30. The operatlon of a conventional dishwashing apparatus typically lncludes alternatlny wash and rlnse cycles followed by a dry cycle. Typlcally two dlfferent addltlves are released into the wash chamber.
detergent is mixed in the chamber 15 durlng separate wash cycles and a rlnse aid addiklve releases ln a rinse cycle late ln the operating cycle to prevent formation of water stains on the dishes and utensils as they dry.
As seen in ~igs. 2-4, the detergent ie contained in two separate reservoirs 32, 34. The reservoirs 32, 34 and a mountlng ba~e 40 are integrally formed with a plastic li.ner 42 that 1~ flt on the inslde door ~urface 43 and faces inwardly toward the chamber 15 Reservoir 32 is always open to the wash chamber while rese~voir 34 has an associated cover 36 that is hinged about a pin 38 mounted in base 40 for movement between a closed position shown ln Fig. 2, wherein the cover 36 seals the reservoir 34, and an open posltion, shown in Fig. 3, wherein the door pivots so that the reservoir 34 is in open communication with the wash chamber 14. The cover position i8 automatically controlled by structure hereafter described.
Before the user starts the apparatus lO, both reservoirs 32, 34 are filled with a supply of detergent.
The cover 3G, which is normally biased to its open pOSitiOIl by a coil spring 44, is moved manually ayainst the spring bias to the closed position in Fiy. 2, wherein it covers the reservoir 34 and bears on the peripheral edge 46 about the reservoir 34. 'rhe cover 36 ha~ an associated offset tah 48, which can be engaged by an enlarged head 49 having an inclined surface 51 at the free end of a plvotable latch arm 50 so that the head 49 blocks the cover 36 ln its closed poeition.
The latch arm 50 is part of a pivotable latch assembly 52. The latch assembly 52 has a shaft 54, which extends through the wall 56 of the liner. The shaft 54 makes keyed connection inside the door with a body 58, from whlch the latch arm 50 pxojects and has a splined portion 60 inside the door between the liner and front surface 30, which is splined to a lever S2 (Figs, 5, 6, 8 and 11). As seen in Figs. 5, 6, 8 and 11 and more fully described below, the lever 62 is biased by a coil spring 64 which urges the latch arm 50 in a counterclockwise direction in Fig. 2.
To lock the cover 36, the arm 50 is rotated clockwise in Fig. 2 by the action of tab 48 against inclined surface 51 as the cover 36 is rotated to its closed position sufficiently to allow clearance of the tab 48. With the cover 36 in its ~ully seated and closed position, the arm 50 passes tab 48 and is released so that the bias in spring 64 overtakes the arm and shifts it blockingly across the tab 48. To release the cover 36, the arm 50 must be pivoted against the bias of spring 64 downwardly to the position shown in phantom in Fig. 3 and, as this occurs, the cover will pivot open under the ~orce of spring 44 to expose the inside of the reservoir 34 to the wash chamber 14. The first wash cycle uses the detergent in reservoir 32. A
later wash cycle uses the detergent in reservoir 34 upon the co~er 36 being released, which is accomplished automatically by the dispensing structure at 36, shown in detail in Figs.
5-11, as dictated by the controlling timer mechanism 20.
~%~6~
Refarring now to Figs. 5-11, in which the inventive structure is detailed, it can be seen that the dispensing s~ructuxe comprises generally a rotatable control cam 66, an associated cam follower 68 and an actuating member 70 ~hich is joinable with the bottom free end 72 o~ the cam follower 68 as hsreafter described. The cam follower 68 and actuating member 70 are preferably ~ormed of plastic and cooperatively define an elongate link that is movable longitudinally thereof upon rotation of the control cam 66 which is driven by the timer through a drive pin 102 as the dishwashing apparatus is cycled by the timer mechanism 20 shown schematically in each of Figs. 5, 6 and 8.
At its lower end, the actuating member 70 mounts a pin 74 having oppositely projecting free ends 76, 78, which are admitted through the open end 80 of a support block 82 mounted on the liner 42 by conventional means such as screws through openings 83. The ends 76, 78 Pit into spaced guide slots 84, which are formed in lateral block walls 86 and open towards each other. At the upper region of the actuating member 70, a T-shaped slot 88 having a cross bar 94 is defined. The liner 42 has an associated disk-shaped projeation 90 with lug~ 92 projecting in opposite directions from the faces thereof.
To assemble the actuating member 70, the pin ends 76, 78 are first introduced to the slots 84 and the member 70 is moved sufficiently downwardly to align the lugs 92 with the 6~
croe~ ~ar 94 of the T-~haped ~lot a8. With the lUg9 92 directad entirely through the ~lot, the actuating member 70 can be shifted downwardly so that the lugs 92 overlie the forwardly facing surface 96 of the actuatlng memb~r 70 and thereby confine forward tilting of the upper portion of the member 70 relative to the liner 42.
The cam follower 68 has an elongate body 98, defining a lengthwise rectangular 510t 100, which accepts drive pin 102 projecting rearwardly of the door at the rotational axis of the cam 66. The pin guide~ vertical movement of the cam follower. The cam follower 68 has a rearwardly projecting guide lug 104 which traverses the three step, cam surface 106 on the control cam 66. The cam follower 68 is biased upwardly by a coil spring 108 so that an upwardly facing guide surface 110 on the lug 104 maintains intlmate contact with the cam surface 106 and the cam follower 68 respon~s positively and con~istently to the movement of the control cam 66.
The upper region of the actuating member 70 defines an zo upwardly opening, rectangular recess 112 with an integrally formed row of teeth 114 extending lengthwi6e of the member 70 at one side of the reces~ 112. The cam follower 68 has at its lower free end a lengthwise row of teeth 116 for cooperation with the teeth 114 on the aatuating member 70.
The lower portion of the cam follower has a weakening cut-out 118 which define~ a flexible ~ide 120 that i9 ~,...
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PA-5352~0-DW-USA
collapsible into the cut-out 118 to effectively narrow the width of the cam follower 68 at its bottom portion. The bottom of the cam follower has a rounded leading edge 122 for guiding the cam follower into the recess 112 in the member 70.
By moving the cam follower 68 and member 70 towa.rds each other in a longitudinal direction, with the lower portion of the cam follower introduced to the recess 112, the teeth progressively engage to prevent separation of the cam follower and member 70O Because the lower end of the cam follower 68 is slightly wider than the width of the recess 112, the side 120 will collapse into the cut-out 118 and thereby exert a bias on the row of teeth 116 on the cam follower toward the row o~ teeth 114 on the member 70. As the cam follower and member 70 are urged longitudinally towards each other, the teeth engage and ride over each othsr which is made possible by a slight lateral shifting of the cam follower against the bias established by the side 120. The cooperating rows of tQeth 112, 114, make it possible for the cam follower 68 and member 70 to be locked relative to each other in a plurality of longitudinal positions as dictated by the number and spacing of teeth.
The lever 62 is used to establish a desired relationship between the cam follower and member 70. The lever 62 has an associatQd arm 124 with a surface 126 at its free end that can be disposed beneath a downwardly facing shoulder 128 on the member 70. ~he surface 126 is placed in the path of the shoulder by pivoting the lever 62 about the lever shaft 54 in a counterclockwise direction, until, as shown in Fig. llt a flat surface 130 on the arm 124 facially encounters a laterally ~acing surface 132 on the actuating member 70. The actuating member 70 can be shi~ted downwardly with the surfaces 130, 132 against each other until the surface 126 and should~r 128 abut, at which point further downward shi~ting of the actuating member 70 is arrested.
With the cam followar 68 in operative relationship with the control cam 66 and the free end of the cam follower introduced at the top of the recess 112, the cam 66 can be manually rotated through the knob 24 throuyh a complete operating cycle. The rows of teeth 114, 116 will progres-sively increase in overlap until ths extreme downward travel position of the cam follower is realized. The combined length of the cam follower 68 and actuating member 70 can be precisely established by the assembler and connection involves only the simple steps of pivoting the lever 62 to abut the actuaking member 70 and thereafter manually cycling the control cam 66. Not only does this assure consistent, predetermined relationship between tha actuating member and cam follower, but it also assures that undue stress is not transmitted through the linkaye between the timer mechanism 20 and lever 62 during assembly and operation. After the ~ fi9~ PA-5352-O~DW USA
actuating member 70 reaches its downwardmost travel position, it will be drawn upwardly and, as thi3 oacurs, the bias of spring 64 will urge the lever 62 to its normal position in a clockwise direction from that shown in Fig.
11.
~ o facilitate separation of the cam follower 68 and actuating membex 70~ the front side of the recess 112 is open. This permits the cam follower to be drawn rearwardly of the door to separate the teeth on the cam follower and actuating member and obviates having to force the teeth on the cam follower over the teeth on the actuating member by moving the cam follower 68 and actuating member 70 lonyitu-dinally away from each other.
It can be seen that the contour of cam surface 106 causes joined cam follower 68 and actuating member 70 to follow a reciprocating path as the apparatus is cycled. The cam follower 68 is urged progresslvely downwardly from its Fig. 8 position as the cam rotates clockwise in Fig. 8. ~he extreme downward position of the cam follower is achieved with the lug at the position immediately adjacent the ~irst cam step 134 ~Fig. 5). A second cam step 136 moves the cam follower ~rom an intermediate position to its Fig. 8 position upon continued rotation of the cam.
Operation of the deteryent door latch in response to movement of the cam follower 68 and actuating member 70 is accomplished through the cooperation of a lateral projection 6~6 PA-5352-O~DW-USA
137 on the actuating member 70 with a trigger arm 138 assoclated with the lever 62~ The trigger arm 138 has a cylindrical portion 140 which snaps into a cylindriaal slot 142 on the lever so that the trigger arm 138 pivots about an axis substantially parallel to but spaced ~rom the axis of pivoting of the shaft 54. The trigger arm 138 has a laterally projecting, flat surface 144 which is borne by the force of spring 64, connected between the trigger arm 138 and support block 82, facially against a laterally facing surface 146 on the laver 620 This imparts the aforementioned bias to the lever 62 in the clockwise direction in Figs. 5, 6, 8 and 11.
The free end o~ the trigger arm 138 has an enlarged head 148 which projects rearwardly of the lever 62 and into the path of movement of the lateral projection 137 of the actuating member 70. Upon the actuating member 70 moving from its Fig. 5 position towards a later wash cycle, the member 70 moves upwardly at cam surface 134 and bears an upwardly directed edge 150 against the underside of the enlarged head 143 of the trigger arm, thereby causing a counterclockwise rotation to be imparted to the lever 62 and as an incident thereo~ the latch arm 50 pivots from its Fig 3 position to the position shown in phantom in Fig. 3 so that the cover 36 is released and moves to an open position in preparatiorl for the subsequent wash cycle. Continued operation of the timer mechanism causes the projection 137 PA-5352~0-DW-USA
to pas~ vertically beyond the enlarged head 148 o~ the trigger arm 138 at which point the spring 64 draws the trigger arm and lever 62 clockwise to its position in Figs.
5, 6, 8 and 11.
Sometimes, a user may interrupt operation of the dishwashing apparatus in mid-cyalel For example, with the dispensing structure in the Fig~ 8 position, a user may manually reset the timer mechanism 20. This involves moving the cam follower and associated actuating mechanism from the Fig. 8 position to the Fig. 5 position. This can be accomplished with the inventive structure without having to reset the cover 36 and is made possible by the connection of the trigger arm with the lever.
According to the invention, the trigger arm is rotatable counterclockwise in Figs. 5, 6, 8 and 11 relative to the lever against only the resistance developed by spring 64. As the bottom edge 152 of the lateral projection 137 encounters the head 148 of the trigger arm, the trigger arm pivots sufficiently to allow the part 137 to go downwardly beyond the trigger arm without pivoting the lever 62. To facilitate deflection of the trigyer arm, the bottom edge 152 is inclined in the same direction as an upwardly ~acing surface 154 at the free end of the trigyer arm. The bottom edge 152 of the part 137 progressively deflects the trigger arm in a counterclockwise, rotative path until clearance is made. Accordingly, the user is gi~en the freedom of manually moving the actuating me~ber downwardly past the trigger arm without having to reset the cover 3~ over th~
reservoir 34. Thl~ prevent~ inadvertent release of detergent in re~ervoir 34 lnto the wash chamber prior to a subsequent wash cycle.
The cam follower 68 and actuatlng member 70 are also responsible for releasing a rinse aid additive into the wash chamber at a prescribed stage in the operating cycle. Tlle rinse additive is distributed in the wash chamber during a rinsing cycle and min~mizes adherence of residue on the dishes as they dry a~ter being rinsed. A container 156 ~Figs. 5, 6 and 12) has an internal chamber l5a for retaining a supply oP the liquld rinse aid. The container 156 ls mounted inside the door and has a conduit 160 directed rearwardly through the inside wall 56 of the liner.
The conduit 160 communicates with the chamber 158 and is accessible through the rear ~ide o~ the plastic liner with the door open. A cap 162 ~Fiy. 2) is screw threaded to and seals the conduit. Also projecting through the liner wall 56 is a discharge conduit 164 with an assoc:lated porous cap 166 (Fig~ 2). At a predetermined stage in the operating cycle, a charge o~ rinse aid is delivered from the chamber 5a through the cap 166 into the wash chamber.
To control the size of the charge delivered to the wash chamber 15, the chamber 158 has a flow directing baffle 168 defining a collecting 6,~i, PA--5352-0--D~l-USA
area 170 and a metering cavity 171. With the door moved to its open horizontal position, liquid from chamber 158 finds its way around the free end 172 of the ba~le 168 and into the area 170. ~he metering cavity is recharged Qach time the door is opened. Upon returning the door to its vertical position, the bulk of llquid flows gravitationally to the bottom of the container 156 while a charge is trapped by the ba~fle in the cavity 171. The metering cavity 171 communicates with the conduit 164 through a port 174.
Discharge o~ the liquid from the metering cavity 171 through the port 174 and cap 166 is controlled by a plunger 176, which is moved upwardly to allow the rinse additive to discharge by gravity into the wash chamber 15.
The rinse aid dispensing mechanism i8 detailed in Figs.
5-10 and 11. The plunger 176 has an internal control stem 178 which is part of a contror element 180 which slides guidingly upwardly and downwardly in a recess 182 in the block 82. The element 180 is guided principally by an associated leg 183 connecting the stem 178 and body 181 o~
the element 180. The leg moves vertically in a channel 179 de~ined by the block 82 and closely matched to the cross-section of the leg 183. A coil spring 184 biases the plunger and associated control element 180 downwardly into sealing engagement with the port 174 as shown in ~igs. 5, 6, 8 and 12. The plunger has a stepped outer sur~ace 186, with the port 174 sealed by a ~irst diameter portion 188. A
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larger diameter portion 190 (Fig. 12) seals an opening 191 in the upper wall 192 o~ the container 156. With the plunger in its downwardmost positlon, the port 174 is sealed ~y the plungsr. Upward movement of the plunger opens the port allowing vented circulation of the liquid from the metering cavity 171 into the wash chamber 15.
Referring to Figs. 9 and 10, the control element 180 has a collapsible, serpentine, trigger section 194 extending between the leg 183 and body 181. The upper portion of section 194 is hingedly connected to the body at 200. The section 194 is enlarged at its upper region 196 and defines a rearward projection 204 having a downwardly facing shoulder 206. The projection 204 is received in a rectangular opening 208 (Fig. 7) having a lower surface 209 in the bottom portion of the actuating member 70. The opening allows a limited amount of relative vertical shifting between the projection 204 and actuating arm 70.
Before the actuating member 70 is assembled, the guide element 180 rests in the Fig. 9 position, being drawn downwardly by the coil spring 184. In the Fig. 9 position, the projection 204 and shoulder 206 reside in the pakh of the pin 74, which moves in the slots 84. The slots 84, as seen clearly in Figs. 9 and 10, each comprise a lower vertically extending portion 210, an offset portion 212 slightly above the projection 204 in the Fig. 9 position and a second vertically extanding portion 214 above khe o~fset portion 212.
With the pin free end~ 76, 78 in the slots 84 and the actuating member movsd downwardly during assembly (shown in phantom in Fig. 9), the pin 74 traversing the offset portion 212 of the slot encounters an angled sur~ace 216 on the enlarged portion 196. Further downward movement of the actuating member 70 deflects a portion of the section 194 in the direction of arrow 218 in Fig. 9 forwardly into a recess 220 in the guide element 180. Upon continued downward movement of the actuating membsr, the lower surface 209 of opening 208 clears the projection 204 and allows the collapsible section 194 to reassume its Fig. 9 position In the Fig. 9 position, the shoulder 206 blocks against surface 209 to prevent upward movement of pin 76 so that the pin 74 is effectively captured therein. With the actuating member 70 so positioned, the projection 204 extend~ through the opening 208 and thereby guldes relative vertical movament of the guide element 180 and actuating member 70.
A charye of the rinse aid additive is released upon the actuating member moving upwardly and thereby drawing with it the guide elemant and plunger. As shown in Fig. 10, the surface 209 bears upwardly against the shoulder 206 as the actuating member rises and shi~ts the guide element 1~0 upwardly. This occurs as the guide lug 104 approaches the second step 136 on the cam S6. As the pin 74 reaches the offset portion 212 of the ~lot, drawing with it the gui.de element 80, the pin 74 will shift outwardly into the offset slmultaneously as the lug 104 moves upwardly at third offset 135 to its ~ig~ 8 po~itlon. Movem~nt of the guide element 180 upwardly to the point of separatlon draws the plunger upwardly ~ufficiently to relea6e the rinsQ aid llquid into the wash chamber. Upon the pin and thus surface 209 clearing the pro~ectlon 204 when lug 104 reaches offset 135, the coil spring 18~ draws the gulde element downwardly so as to bring the plunger lnto sealing engagement with the container.
A short summary of the operation of the dispenser mechanism is as follows. At the beginning of the dishwasher cycle the cam 66 and follower 68 are in the positions shown in Figure 5. As the cam rotates in the clockwise direction driven by the timer 20 the lug 104 of cam follower 68 travels agalnst surface 106 of the cam 66. Wherl the rotation of the cam brings the follower to the first step 134 the bias of spring 108 rapidly moves the cam follower upward forcing the pro;ection 137 agalnst the enlarged head 148 which rotates latch arm 50 so that head 49 unblocks tlle cover 36. The cover is rotated by the sprlng 38 to the open position such that the detergent contents of the cup 34 are free to be washed from the cup by water within the washing 2.5 chamher. The cam 66 is now in the position shown in figure 6 and as it continues its rotation the lug 104 approaches the second step 136. When the lug 104 reaches the step 136 the cam follower and lever 70 are pulled upward with surface 209 pullin~ projection 204 upward. Movement upward of the pro~ection 204 lifts the plunger 176 ~rom its seat allowing rinse additive in the metering cavity 171 to flow into the dishwashing chamber. As the cam 66 continues further rotation, the lug 104 reaches the third step in the cam 135.
At this point cam follower 68 and member 70 move upwardly again to their uppermo~t position movlng ~urface 209 past projection 204 and allowing the force o~ spring 184 to return the plunger 176 to its ~eatad position. Furtller rotation of cam 66 through the remainder of the cycle brings the lug 104 in cam follower 68 back to the position of figure 5. During this travel of cam 66 the follower 68 moves downward such that pro~ection 137 is forced past enlarged head 148 and surface 209 is ~orced past projection 206. The dispenser actuating mechanism is now in pOSitiOIl to repeat the actuation cycle. If for any reason, after tlle operatlon oE the detergent dlspenser cover to its open position, the operator should manually rotate the timer mechanism it will be noted that the steps 136 and 135 are closely adjacent each other such that during manual rotation the plunger 176 would be raised and lowered ~rom its seat in rapld succession such that only a small amount of rinse aid would be allowed to exit the metering cavity 171. Thus, even thou~h the timer would be manually rotated to its ~,:, 6~
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starting position, and tha door not opened suf~iciently to recharge the metering chamber, there would be sufficient rinse aid left in the chamber 171 to provide rinse aid at the propar point in the cycle to parfor~ the rinse aid function.
It can be seen that the container is positively sealed by the plunger and that the snap-fit engagement of the collapsible section 194 and actuating member can be accomplished without releasing a charge of the liquid additive. Movement of the actuating member downwardly through the operating cycle will ef~ect engagement of the actuating member 70 and guide element 180 without releasing rinse aid additive, while movement of the actuating member upwardly relaases the plunger for a sufficient time to discharge the additiva into the wash chamber.
The foregoing disclosure of specific embodiments is intended to be illustrative of the broad concepts comprehended by the invention.
In each of the Bloom and I.ines patents, a timer mechanism, through an associated cam and following linkage, opens a cover ~or a reservoir at a predete~nined stage in an operating cycle so that the additive in the reservoir is released into the wash chamber. The principal drawback with such structure is that if operation is interrupted in mid-cycle by the user and the user manually resets the timer, khe cover will be open at the beginning of the cycle PA-5352-O~DW~USA
and the additive will discharge before the stage in the cycle where discharge is contsmplated as, for example, during a later wash cycle. Alternatively, the user would have to open th~ door and manually reclose the cover, which is inconvenient.
This problem is also contended with where metered delivery of an additive occurR automatically in an operating cycle. If a user manually cycles the apparatus, the release of multiple charges of additive may result.
Summary of the Invention The present invention iB specifically directed to overaoming the deficiencies in the prior art structures in a novel and simple manner.
According to the invention, structure is provided for dispensing an additive into a wash chamber of a dishwashing apparatus at a predetermined stage in an operating cycle for the apparatus. A reservoir is provided for a supply of additive. A cover is movable between a closed position, wherein it seals the reservoir and an open position, wherein the reservoir is in communication with the wash chamber.
The timer mechanism moves a link through a prescribed path as the dishwashing apparatus cycles and at one stage in the cycle moves the link through a portion of the path in a first direction and at another stage the link retraces the path portion in an opposite direction. As the link moves in the ~irst direction in the path portion lt intercepts and moves a trigger arm and an associatad member so that the cover moves rom its closed position to its open position.
Movement of the link in a direction opposita to the ~irst direction causes the trigger arm to move relative to its associated member as the link portion encounters and moves beyond the trigger arm without moving the cover so that the cover will be maintained in its closed position.
In one embodiment, a cover is provided and is movable pivotably between a closed position, wherein it seals a detergent containing reservoir, and an open position, wherein the reservoir is exposed to the wash chamber. The cover is normally biased to its open position and is maintained in .its closed position by a movable latch and associated lever. The trigger arm is pivotably mounted relative to the lever and upon being rotated by the link in one direction bears on the lever and shifts the latch so that the cover opens. Movement o~ the link in the opposite direction pivots the trigger arm relative to the lever so that the lever and latch remain stationary and the cover is maintained in the closed position.
The invention may also be incorporated into structure wherein automatic, metered delivery o~ a charge o~ liquid from a container occurs during the operating cycle. In one exemplary structure, a plunger is spring biased to a sealing position on a liquid additive container. As the link moves ?'J~ PA 5352-0--DW-USA
in one direction, a portion thereo~ engages an extension of the plunger and urges the plunger out of sealing engagement.
The link moves against and beyond the extension in the path portion and upon the link passlng the extension, the plunger reseats. MovemPnt of the link in the opposite direction collapses the extension without unseating the plunger.
Another aspect of the invention i6 the provision of a cam member which cooperates with the link so that the plunger is unseated only for a time sufficient to discharge the liquid additive. If the timer mechanism is manually cycled, as by rapidly rotating a control knob for the timer, the plunger will be only instantaneously unseated. Thus only a minimal amount of additive will be released.
Accordingly, through a very simple mechanical structure, inadvertent release of the cover upon manually resetting of the timer mechanism is prevented.
Brief Description of the Drawinqs Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a dishwashing apparatus incorporating additive dispensing structure according to the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a perspective view o~ the additive dispensing structure on the inside of a door for the dishwashing apparatus and with a cover for a detergent reservoir in a closed position, - ~ 28~66 PA-5352-O-DW USA
Fig. 3 ~g a perspective view of the detergent reservoir in Fig. 2 with the cover in an open position;
Fig. 4 is an enlarged 6ectional view of the detergent reservoir and associated Gover generally along line 4~4 o~
Fig. ~;
Fig~ 5 is a front perspectiv~ view o~ the additive dispensing structure at a stage in the operating cycle prior to release of the cover for the detergent reservoir;
Fig. 6 ls a view similar to that in Fig. 5 with the detergent cover released to an open position:
Fig. 7 i~ a view similar to that in Figs. 5 and 6 with the di~pensing structure arranged ko release a li~uid additive;
Fig. 8 is a view similar to that in Figs. 5-7 after the liquid additive has been released;
Fig. 9 i~ an enlarged, sectional view of actuating structure ~or release o~ the liquid additive in a position prior to relea~e thereof;
Fiy. 10 i~ a view similar to that in Fig. 9 at the point of release o~ the liquid additive:
Fig. 11 is an enlarged, fragmentary, front elevation view of structure ~or controlling the interconnection o~ two elements on the dispensing structure; and Fig. 12 is a rear elevation view o~ a reservoir or containing liquid additive.
36~
Detailed Descri~tion of the Dr_ inqs In ~ig. 1 a dishwashing apparatus suitable for the incorporation of the present lnvention is shown at lo. T~le apparatus in F~g. 1 is an under-the-counter design and is floor mounted so that the top of the apparatus 10 resides closely beneath the underside 12 of a counter 14. A wash chamber at 15 accepts a plurality of racks for supporting dishes and utensils. The wash chamber 15 has an opening at its front which is accessed through a hinged door 16, shown in Fig. 1 in its closed position. The door 16 has an associated console 18 which houses the electrical controls for the dishwashing apparatus, including a conventional timer mechanism 20. The console 18 supports a vant 21, operator controls 22 and a knob 24 through which the user can manually cycle the timer mechanism 20.
The invention is embodied in the additive dispensiny structure shown generally in phantom at 26 in Fig. 1, which structure is mounted on the door 16 bshlnd the outside front door surface 30. The operatlon of a conventional dishwashing apparatus typically lncludes alternatlny wash and rlnse cycles followed by a dry cycle. Typlcally two dlfferent addltlves are released into the wash chamber.
detergent is mixed in the chamber 15 durlng separate wash cycles and a rlnse aid addiklve releases ln a rinse cycle late ln the operating cycle to prevent formation of water stains on the dishes and utensils as they dry.
As seen in ~igs. 2-4, the detergent ie contained in two separate reservoirs 32, 34. The reservoirs 32, 34 and a mountlng ba~e 40 are integrally formed with a plastic li.ner 42 that 1~ flt on the inslde door ~urface 43 and faces inwardly toward the chamber 15 Reservoir 32 is always open to the wash chamber while rese~voir 34 has an associated cover 36 that is hinged about a pin 38 mounted in base 40 for movement between a closed position shown ln Fig. 2, wherein the cover 36 seals the reservoir 34, and an open posltion, shown in Fig. 3, wherein the door pivots so that the reservoir 34 is in open communication with the wash chamber 14. The cover position i8 automatically controlled by structure hereafter described.
Before the user starts the apparatus lO, both reservoirs 32, 34 are filled with a supply of detergent.
The cover 3G, which is normally biased to its open pOSitiOIl by a coil spring 44, is moved manually ayainst the spring bias to the closed position in Fiy. 2, wherein it covers the reservoir 34 and bears on the peripheral edge 46 about the reservoir 34. 'rhe cover 36 ha~ an associated offset tah 48, which can be engaged by an enlarged head 49 having an inclined surface 51 at the free end of a plvotable latch arm 50 so that the head 49 blocks the cover 36 ln its closed poeition.
The latch arm 50 is part of a pivotable latch assembly 52. The latch assembly 52 has a shaft 54, which extends through the wall 56 of the liner. The shaft 54 makes keyed connection inside the door with a body 58, from whlch the latch arm 50 pxojects and has a splined portion 60 inside the door between the liner and front surface 30, which is splined to a lever S2 (Figs, 5, 6, 8 and 11). As seen in Figs. 5, 6, 8 and 11 and more fully described below, the lever 62 is biased by a coil spring 64 which urges the latch arm 50 in a counterclockwise direction in Fig. 2.
To lock the cover 36, the arm 50 is rotated clockwise in Fig. 2 by the action of tab 48 against inclined surface 51 as the cover 36 is rotated to its closed position sufficiently to allow clearance of the tab 48. With the cover 36 in its ~ully seated and closed position, the arm 50 passes tab 48 and is released so that the bias in spring 64 overtakes the arm and shifts it blockingly across the tab 48. To release the cover 36, the arm 50 must be pivoted against the bias of spring 64 downwardly to the position shown in phantom in Fig. 3 and, as this occurs, the cover will pivot open under the ~orce of spring 44 to expose the inside of the reservoir 34 to the wash chamber 14. The first wash cycle uses the detergent in reservoir 32. A
later wash cycle uses the detergent in reservoir 34 upon the co~er 36 being released, which is accomplished automatically by the dispensing structure at 36, shown in detail in Figs.
5-11, as dictated by the controlling timer mechanism 20.
~%~6~
Refarring now to Figs. 5-11, in which the inventive structure is detailed, it can be seen that the dispensing s~ructuxe comprises generally a rotatable control cam 66, an associated cam follower 68 and an actuating member 70 ~hich is joinable with the bottom free end 72 o~ the cam follower 68 as hsreafter described. The cam follower 68 and actuating member 70 are preferably ~ormed of plastic and cooperatively define an elongate link that is movable longitudinally thereof upon rotation of the control cam 66 which is driven by the timer through a drive pin 102 as the dishwashing apparatus is cycled by the timer mechanism 20 shown schematically in each of Figs. 5, 6 and 8.
At its lower end, the actuating member 70 mounts a pin 74 having oppositely projecting free ends 76, 78, which are admitted through the open end 80 of a support block 82 mounted on the liner 42 by conventional means such as screws through openings 83. The ends 76, 78 Pit into spaced guide slots 84, which are formed in lateral block walls 86 and open towards each other. At the upper region of the actuating member 70, a T-shaped slot 88 having a cross bar 94 is defined. The liner 42 has an associated disk-shaped projeation 90 with lug~ 92 projecting in opposite directions from the faces thereof.
To assemble the actuating member 70, the pin ends 76, 78 are first introduced to the slots 84 and the member 70 is moved sufficiently downwardly to align the lugs 92 with the 6~
croe~ ~ar 94 of the T-~haped ~lot a8. With the lUg9 92 directad entirely through the ~lot, the actuating member 70 can be shifted downwardly so that the lugs 92 overlie the forwardly facing surface 96 of the actuatlng memb~r 70 and thereby confine forward tilting of the upper portion of the member 70 relative to the liner 42.
The cam follower 68 has an elongate body 98, defining a lengthwise rectangular 510t 100, which accepts drive pin 102 projecting rearwardly of the door at the rotational axis of the cam 66. The pin guide~ vertical movement of the cam follower. The cam follower 68 has a rearwardly projecting guide lug 104 which traverses the three step, cam surface 106 on the control cam 66. The cam follower 68 is biased upwardly by a coil spring 108 so that an upwardly facing guide surface 110 on the lug 104 maintains intlmate contact with the cam surface 106 and the cam follower 68 respon~s positively and con~istently to the movement of the control cam 66.
The upper region of the actuating member 70 defines an zo upwardly opening, rectangular recess 112 with an integrally formed row of teeth 114 extending lengthwi6e of the member 70 at one side of the reces~ 112. The cam follower 68 has at its lower free end a lengthwise row of teeth 116 for cooperation with the teeth 114 on the aatuating member 70.
The lower portion of the cam follower has a weakening cut-out 118 which define~ a flexible ~ide 120 that i9 ~,...
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PA-5352~0-DW-USA
collapsible into the cut-out 118 to effectively narrow the width of the cam follower 68 at its bottom portion. The bottom of the cam follower has a rounded leading edge 122 for guiding the cam follower into the recess 112 in the member 70.
By moving the cam follower 68 and member 70 towa.rds each other in a longitudinal direction, with the lower portion of the cam follower introduced to the recess 112, the teeth progressively engage to prevent separation of the cam follower and member 70O Because the lower end of the cam follower 68 is slightly wider than the width of the recess 112, the side 120 will collapse into the cut-out 118 and thereby exert a bias on the row of teeth 116 on the cam follower toward the row o~ teeth 114 on the member 70. As the cam follower and member 70 are urged longitudinally towards each other, the teeth engage and ride over each othsr which is made possible by a slight lateral shifting of the cam follower against the bias established by the side 120. The cooperating rows of tQeth 112, 114, make it possible for the cam follower 68 and member 70 to be locked relative to each other in a plurality of longitudinal positions as dictated by the number and spacing of teeth.
The lever 62 is used to establish a desired relationship between the cam follower and member 70. The lever 62 has an associatQd arm 124 with a surface 126 at its free end that can be disposed beneath a downwardly facing shoulder 128 on the member 70. ~he surface 126 is placed in the path of the shoulder by pivoting the lever 62 about the lever shaft 54 in a counterclockwise direction, until, as shown in Fig. llt a flat surface 130 on the arm 124 facially encounters a laterally ~acing surface 132 on the actuating member 70. The actuating member 70 can be shi~ted downwardly with the surfaces 130, 132 against each other until the surface 126 and should~r 128 abut, at which point further downward shi~ting of the actuating member 70 is arrested.
With the cam followar 68 in operative relationship with the control cam 66 and the free end of the cam follower introduced at the top of the recess 112, the cam 66 can be manually rotated through the knob 24 throuyh a complete operating cycle. The rows of teeth 114, 116 will progres-sively increase in overlap until ths extreme downward travel position of the cam follower is realized. The combined length of the cam follower 68 and actuating member 70 can be precisely established by the assembler and connection involves only the simple steps of pivoting the lever 62 to abut the actuaking member 70 and thereafter manually cycling the control cam 66. Not only does this assure consistent, predetermined relationship between tha actuating member and cam follower, but it also assures that undue stress is not transmitted through the linkaye between the timer mechanism 20 and lever 62 during assembly and operation. After the ~ fi9~ PA-5352-O~DW USA
actuating member 70 reaches its downwardmost travel position, it will be drawn upwardly and, as thi3 oacurs, the bias of spring 64 will urge the lever 62 to its normal position in a clockwise direction from that shown in Fig.
11.
~ o facilitate separation of the cam follower 68 and actuating membex 70~ the front side of the recess 112 is open. This permits the cam follower to be drawn rearwardly of the door to separate the teeth on the cam follower and actuating member and obviates having to force the teeth on the cam follower over the teeth on the actuating member by moving the cam follower 68 and actuating member 70 lonyitu-dinally away from each other.
It can be seen that the contour of cam surface 106 causes joined cam follower 68 and actuating member 70 to follow a reciprocating path as the apparatus is cycled. The cam follower 68 is urged progresslvely downwardly from its Fig. 8 position as the cam rotates clockwise in Fig. 8. ~he extreme downward position of the cam follower is achieved with the lug at the position immediately adjacent the ~irst cam step 134 ~Fig. 5). A second cam step 136 moves the cam follower ~rom an intermediate position to its Fig. 8 position upon continued rotation of the cam.
Operation of the deteryent door latch in response to movement of the cam follower 68 and actuating member 70 is accomplished through the cooperation of a lateral projection 6~6 PA-5352-O~DW-USA
137 on the actuating member 70 with a trigger arm 138 assoclated with the lever 62~ The trigger arm 138 has a cylindrical portion 140 which snaps into a cylindriaal slot 142 on the lever so that the trigger arm 138 pivots about an axis substantially parallel to but spaced ~rom the axis of pivoting of the shaft 54. The trigger arm 138 has a laterally projecting, flat surface 144 which is borne by the force of spring 64, connected between the trigger arm 138 and support block 82, facially against a laterally facing surface 146 on the laver 620 This imparts the aforementioned bias to the lever 62 in the clockwise direction in Figs. 5, 6, 8 and 11.
The free end o~ the trigger arm 138 has an enlarged head 148 which projects rearwardly of the lever 62 and into the path of movement of the lateral projection 137 of the actuating member 70. Upon the actuating member 70 moving from its Fig. 5 position towards a later wash cycle, the member 70 moves upwardly at cam surface 134 and bears an upwardly directed edge 150 against the underside of the enlarged head 143 of the trigger arm, thereby causing a counterclockwise rotation to be imparted to the lever 62 and as an incident thereo~ the latch arm 50 pivots from its Fig 3 position to the position shown in phantom in Fig. 3 so that the cover 36 is released and moves to an open position in preparatiorl for the subsequent wash cycle. Continued operation of the timer mechanism causes the projection 137 PA-5352~0-DW-USA
to pas~ vertically beyond the enlarged head 148 o~ the trigger arm 138 at which point the spring 64 draws the trigger arm and lever 62 clockwise to its position in Figs.
5, 6, 8 and 11.
Sometimes, a user may interrupt operation of the dishwashing apparatus in mid-cyalel For example, with the dispensing structure in the Fig~ 8 position, a user may manually reset the timer mechanism 20. This involves moving the cam follower and associated actuating mechanism from the Fig. 8 position to the Fig. 5 position. This can be accomplished with the inventive structure without having to reset the cover 36 and is made possible by the connection of the trigger arm with the lever.
According to the invention, the trigger arm is rotatable counterclockwise in Figs. 5, 6, 8 and 11 relative to the lever against only the resistance developed by spring 64. As the bottom edge 152 of the lateral projection 137 encounters the head 148 of the trigger arm, the trigger arm pivots sufficiently to allow the part 137 to go downwardly beyond the trigger arm without pivoting the lever 62. To facilitate deflection of the trigyer arm, the bottom edge 152 is inclined in the same direction as an upwardly ~acing surface 154 at the free end of the trigyer arm. The bottom edge 152 of the part 137 progressively deflects the trigger arm in a counterclockwise, rotative path until clearance is made. Accordingly, the user is gi~en the freedom of manually moving the actuating me~ber downwardly past the trigger arm without having to reset the cover 3~ over th~
reservoir 34. Thl~ prevent~ inadvertent release of detergent in re~ervoir 34 lnto the wash chamber prior to a subsequent wash cycle.
The cam follower 68 and actuatlng member 70 are also responsible for releasing a rinse aid additive into the wash chamber at a prescribed stage in the operating cycle. Tlle rinse additive is distributed in the wash chamber during a rinsing cycle and min~mizes adherence of residue on the dishes as they dry a~ter being rinsed. A container 156 ~Figs. 5, 6 and 12) has an internal chamber l5a for retaining a supply oP the liquld rinse aid. The container 156 ls mounted inside the door and has a conduit 160 directed rearwardly through the inside wall 56 of the liner.
The conduit 160 communicates with the chamber 158 and is accessible through the rear ~ide o~ the plastic liner with the door open. A cap 162 ~Fiy. 2) is screw threaded to and seals the conduit. Also projecting through the liner wall 56 is a discharge conduit 164 with an assoc:lated porous cap 166 (Fig~ 2). At a predetermined stage in the operating cycle, a charge o~ rinse aid is delivered from the chamber 5a through the cap 166 into the wash chamber.
To control the size of the charge delivered to the wash chamber 15, the chamber 158 has a flow directing baffle 168 defining a collecting 6,~i, PA--5352-0--D~l-USA
area 170 and a metering cavity 171. With the door moved to its open horizontal position, liquid from chamber 158 finds its way around the free end 172 of the ba~le 168 and into the area 170. ~he metering cavity is recharged Qach time the door is opened. Upon returning the door to its vertical position, the bulk of llquid flows gravitationally to the bottom of the container 156 while a charge is trapped by the ba~fle in the cavity 171. The metering cavity 171 communicates with the conduit 164 through a port 174.
Discharge o~ the liquid from the metering cavity 171 through the port 174 and cap 166 is controlled by a plunger 176, which is moved upwardly to allow the rinse additive to discharge by gravity into the wash chamber 15.
The rinse aid dispensing mechanism i8 detailed in Figs.
5-10 and 11. The plunger 176 has an internal control stem 178 which is part of a contror element 180 which slides guidingly upwardly and downwardly in a recess 182 in the block 82. The element 180 is guided principally by an associated leg 183 connecting the stem 178 and body 181 o~
the element 180. The leg moves vertically in a channel 179 de~ined by the block 82 and closely matched to the cross-section of the leg 183. A coil spring 184 biases the plunger and associated control element 180 downwardly into sealing engagement with the port 174 as shown in ~igs. 5, 6, 8 and 12. The plunger has a stepped outer sur~ace 186, with the port 174 sealed by a ~irst diameter portion 188. A
~8,~6~ PA-5352-O-DW-USA
larger diameter portion 190 (Fig. 12) seals an opening 191 in the upper wall 192 o~ the container 156. With the plunger in its downwardmost positlon, the port 174 is sealed ~y the plungsr. Upward movement of the plunger opens the port allowing vented circulation of the liquid from the metering cavity 171 into the wash chamber 15.
Referring to Figs. 9 and 10, the control element 180 has a collapsible, serpentine, trigger section 194 extending between the leg 183 and body 181. The upper portion of section 194 is hingedly connected to the body at 200. The section 194 is enlarged at its upper region 196 and defines a rearward projection 204 having a downwardly facing shoulder 206. The projection 204 is received in a rectangular opening 208 (Fig. 7) having a lower surface 209 in the bottom portion of the actuating member 70. The opening allows a limited amount of relative vertical shifting between the projection 204 and actuating arm 70.
Before the actuating member 70 is assembled, the guide element 180 rests in the Fig. 9 position, being drawn downwardly by the coil spring 184. In the Fig. 9 position, the projection 204 and shoulder 206 reside in the pakh of the pin 74, which moves in the slots 84. The slots 84, as seen clearly in Figs. 9 and 10, each comprise a lower vertically extending portion 210, an offset portion 212 slightly above the projection 204 in the Fig. 9 position and a second vertically extanding portion 214 above khe o~fset portion 212.
With the pin free end~ 76, 78 in the slots 84 and the actuating member movsd downwardly during assembly (shown in phantom in Fig. 9), the pin 74 traversing the offset portion 212 of the slot encounters an angled sur~ace 216 on the enlarged portion 196. Further downward movement of the actuating member 70 deflects a portion of the section 194 in the direction of arrow 218 in Fig. 9 forwardly into a recess 220 in the guide element 180. Upon continued downward movement of the actuating membsr, the lower surface 209 of opening 208 clears the projection 204 and allows the collapsible section 194 to reassume its Fig. 9 position In the Fig. 9 position, the shoulder 206 blocks against surface 209 to prevent upward movement of pin 76 so that the pin 74 is effectively captured therein. With the actuating member 70 so positioned, the projection 204 extend~ through the opening 208 and thereby guldes relative vertical movament of the guide element 180 and actuating member 70.
A charye of the rinse aid additive is released upon the actuating member moving upwardly and thereby drawing with it the guide elemant and plunger. As shown in Fig. 10, the surface 209 bears upwardly against the shoulder 206 as the actuating member rises and shi~ts the guide element 1~0 upwardly. This occurs as the guide lug 104 approaches the second step 136 on the cam S6. As the pin 74 reaches the offset portion 212 of the ~lot, drawing with it the gui.de element 80, the pin 74 will shift outwardly into the offset slmultaneously as the lug 104 moves upwardly at third offset 135 to its ~ig~ 8 po~itlon. Movem~nt of the guide element 180 upwardly to the point of separatlon draws the plunger upwardly ~ufficiently to relea6e the rinsQ aid llquid into the wash chamber. Upon the pin and thus surface 209 clearing the pro~ectlon 204 when lug 104 reaches offset 135, the coil spring 18~ draws the gulde element downwardly so as to bring the plunger lnto sealing engagement with the container.
A short summary of the operation of the dispenser mechanism is as follows. At the beginning of the dishwasher cycle the cam 66 and follower 68 are in the positions shown in Figure 5. As the cam rotates in the clockwise direction driven by the timer 20 the lug 104 of cam follower 68 travels agalnst surface 106 of the cam 66. Wherl the rotation of the cam brings the follower to the first step 134 the bias of spring 108 rapidly moves the cam follower upward forcing the pro;ection 137 agalnst the enlarged head 148 which rotates latch arm 50 so that head 49 unblocks tlle cover 36. The cover is rotated by the sprlng 38 to the open position such that the detergent contents of the cup 34 are free to be washed from the cup by water within the washing 2.5 chamher. The cam 66 is now in the position shown in figure 6 and as it continues its rotation the lug 104 approaches the second step 136. When the lug 104 reaches the step 136 the cam follower and lever 70 are pulled upward with surface 209 pullin~ projection 204 upward. Movement upward of the pro~ection 204 lifts the plunger 176 ~rom its seat allowing rinse additive in the metering cavity 171 to flow into the dishwashing chamber. As the cam 66 continues further rotation, the lug 104 reaches the third step in the cam 135.
At this point cam follower 68 and member 70 move upwardly again to their uppermo~t position movlng ~urface 209 past projection 204 and allowing the force o~ spring 184 to return the plunger 176 to its ~eatad position. Furtller rotation of cam 66 through the remainder of the cycle brings the lug 104 in cam follower 68 back to the position of figure 5. During this travel of cam 66 the follower 68 moves downward such that pro~ection 137 is forced past enlarged head 148 and surface 209 is ~orced past projection 206. The dispenser actuating mechanism is now in pOSitiOIl to repeat the actuation cycle. If for any reason, after tlle operatlon oE the detergent dlspenser cover to its open position, the operator should manually rotate the timer mechanism it will be noted that the steps 136 and 135 are closely adjacent each other such that during manual rotation the plunger 176 would be raised and lowered ~rom its seat in rapld succession such that only a small amount of rinse aid would be allowed to exit the metering cavity 171. Thus, even thou~h the timer would be manually rotated to its ~,:, 6~
PA-53s2-O-DW USA
2~
starting position, and tha door not opened suf~iciently to recharge the metering chamber, there would be sufficient rinse aid left in the chamber 171 to provide rinse aid at the propar point in the cycle to parfor~ the rinse aid function.
It can be seen that the container is positively sealed by the plunger and that the snap-fit engagement of the collapsible section 194 and actuating member can be accomplished without releasing a charge of the liquid additive. Movement of the actuating member downwardly through the operating cycle will ef~ect engagement of the actuating member 70 and guide element 180 without releasing rinse aid additive, while movement of the actuating member upwardly relaases the plunger for a sufficient time to discharge the additiva into the wash chamber.
The foregoing disclosure of specific embodiments is intended to be illustrative of the broad concepts comprehended by the invention.
Claims (17)
1. Structure for dispensing an additive into a wash chamber of a dishwashing apparatus having a timer mechanism for automatically controlling operation of the dishwashing apparatus, said structure comprising:
a reservoir for storing a supply of additive and having an outlet opening to the wash chamber;
a cover for said reservoir;
means mounting the cover for movement relative to the reservoir between (a) a closed position wherein the cover prevents escape of additive from the reservoir outlet into the wash chamber and (b) an open position permitting the reservoir outlet to be in communication with the wash chamber;
a movable member connected to a moving means;
said moving means being driven by said timer mechanism for moving said movable member through a prescribed path in response to operation of the timer mechanism as the dishwashing apparatus is cycled through an operating cycle;
said moving means moving said movable member in a first direction through a portion of said path during one portion of said operating cycle and moving said movable member to retrace said path portion in a second direction opposite to the first direction during another portion of said operating cycle;
a trigger operatively connected between said movable member and said cover;
means mounting the trigger in the path of said movable member so that the movable member moves against and past the trigger as said movable member moves in said path in both said first and second directions; and cooperating means on the trigger, movable member and cover for (a) causing said movable member to engage said trigger to move said cover relative to said reservoir to allow said cover to move from its closed position to its open position as said movable member moves in said first direction in said portion of said path, and (b) for permitting said movable member to move the trigger relative to the cover as said movable member moves in said second direction in said path without moving said cover from its closed position to its open position.
a reservoir for storing a supply of additive and having an outlet opening to the wash chamber;
a cover for said reservoir;
means mounting the cover for movement relative to the reservoir between (a) a closed position wherein the cover prevents escape of additive from the reservoir outlet into the wash chamber and (b) an open position permitting the reservoir outlet to be in communication with the wash chamber;
a movable member connected to a moving means;
said moving means being driven by said timer mechanism for moving said movable member through a prescribed path in response to operation of the timer mechanism as the dishwashing apparatus is cycled through an operating cycle;
said moving means moving said movable member in a first direction through a portion of said path during one portion of said operating cycle and moving said movable member to retrace said path portion in a second direction opposite to the first direction during another portion of said operating cycle;
a trigger operatively connected between said movable member and said cover;
means mounting the trigger in the path of said movable member so that the movable member moves against and past the trigger as said movable member moves in said path in both said first and second directions; and cooperating means on the trigger, movable member and cover for (a) causing said movable member to engage said trigger to move said cover relative to said reservoir to allow said cover to move from its closed position to its open position as said movable member moves in said first direction in said portion of said path, and (b) for permitting said movable member to move the trigger relative to the cover as said movable member moves in said second direction in said path without moving said cover from its closed position to its open position.
2. The additive dispensing structure according to claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a plunger that is normally spring biased sealingly against the reservoir outlet.
3. The additive dispensing structure according to claim 1 wherein said cover comprises a plunger which seats over the outlet in its closed position and unseats in its open position, the trigger has a collapsible section extending from said plunger, said movable member draws the trigger with it as it moves against said trigger in the first direction, thereby unseating the plunger and as the movable member moves in the direction opposite the first direction against the trigger the collapsible section collapses to allow passage of the movable member beyond the trigger without unseating the plunger.
4. The additive dispensing structure according to claim 1 wherein said cover comprises a plunger which seats over the outlet in its closed position and unseats in its open position, the trigger has a collapsible section extending from said plunger, said trigger comprises a projection defining a shoulder, a block member is provided and defines a guide slot and the movable member has a pin which is guided in the guide slot through the path portion, said pin, upon said movable member moving in the first direction, engaging said movable shoulder and moving the collapsible section and plunger to unseat the plunger, said pin, upon said member moving in said direction opposite the first direction, engaging the projection and collapsing the collapsible section as the pin moves against and beyond the projection without unseating the plunger.
5. The additive dispensing structure according to claim 1 wherein said cover comprises a plunger which seats over the outlet in its closed position and unseats in its open position, the trigger has a collapsible section extending from said plunger, said trigger comprises a projection defining a shoulder, a block member is provided and defines a guide slot and the movable member has a pin which is guided in the guide slot through the path portion said pin, upon said movable member moving in the first direction, engaging said shoulder and moving the collapsible section and plunger to unseat the plunger, said pin, upon said movable member moving in said direction opposite the first direction, engaging the projection and collapsing the collapsible section as the pin moves against and beyond the projection without unseating the plunger, wherein said slot comprises a vertical portion and an offset portion and the pin moves through the vertical portion and then said offset portion as the movable member moves in the first direction and as the pin moves into the offset portion the movable member separates from the trigger thereby allowing the cover to reseat.
6. The additive dispensing structure of claim 1 wherein there is a door with a liner on the dishwashing apparatus, said cover is pivotable between said open and closed positions, there is a latch connected to said trigger, means mounting the latch to the liner for movement between a first position wherein it blocks the cover in its closed position and a second position wherein the cover can be opened, means mounting said trigger for movement relative to the latch and upon said movable member moving against the trigger in the first direction the trigger causes the latch to move to its second position so that the cover can open and upon the movable member moving against and beyond the trigger in said direction opposite the first direction the trigger moves relative to the latch without causing movement of the latch.
7. Structure for dispensing an additive into a wash chamber of a dishwashing apparatus that is automatically controlled through an operating cycle by a timer mechanism, said structure comprising:
a reservoir for storing a supply of additive;
a cover for said reservoir;
means mounting the cover for movement relative to the reservoir between (a) a closed position wherein the cover prevents escape of additive from the reservoir into the wash chamber and (b) an open position where the reservoir is in communication with the wash chamber;
a latch engaging said cover;
means mounting the latch for movement relative to the cover between (a) a first position for maintaining the cover in said closed position and (b) a second position wherein the cover can be moved from the closed position to the open position;
a link operatively connected between said timer mechanism and a trigger arm;
means mounting the link for movement in response to operation of the timer mechanism through a prescribed path as the dishwashing apparatus is operated through an operating cycle;
said link moving in a first direction through a portion of the path at one stage in an operating cycle and retracing said path portion in a direction opposite to the first direction at another stage in an operating cycle;
means cooperating between said trigger arm and said link for permitting engagement therebetween; and means mounting the trigger arm to the latch for movement relative thereto so that (a) a part of the link moving in the first direction through said path portion engages and moves the trigger arm thereby causing the latch to move between the first and second positions as the link part moves against and beyond the trigger arm in said first direction and (b) said link part engages and moves the trigger arm relative to the latch as the link part moves against and beyond the trigger arm with the link moving through said path portion in said direction opposite to the first direction without moving the latch between the first and second positions;
whereby the latch moves from the first to the second position only with the link moving in the first direction.
a reservoir for storing a supply of additive;
a cover for said reservoir;
means mounting the cover for movement relative to the reservoir between (a) a closed position wherein the cover prevents escape of additive from the reservoir into the wash chamber and (b) an open position where the reservoir is in communication with the wash chamber;
a latch engaging said cover;
means mounting the latch for movement relative to the cover between (a) a first position for maintaining the cover in said closed position and (b) a second position wherein the cover can be moved from the closed position to the open position;
a link operatively connected between said timer mechanism and a trigger arm;
means mounting the link for movement in response to operation of the timer mechanism through a prescribed path as the dishwashing apparatus is operated through an operating cycle;
said link moving in a first direction through a portion of the path at one stage in an operating cycle and retracing said path portion in a direction opposite to the first direction at another stage in an operating cycle;
means cooperating between said trigger arm and said link for permitting engagement therebetween; and means mounting the trigger arm to the latch for movement relative thereto so that (a) a part of the link moving in the first direction through said path portion engages and moves the trigger arm thereby causing the latch to move between the first and second positions as the link part moves against and beyond the trigger arm in said first direction and (b) said link part engages and moves the trigger arm relative to the latch as the link part moves against and beyond the trigger arm with the link moving through said path portion in said direction opposite to the first direction without moving the latch between the first and second positions;
whereby the latch moves from the first to the second position only with the link moving in the first direction.
8. The additive dispensing structure according to claim 7 wherein the means mounting the latch mount the latch pivotally between the first and second positions, a lever is provided on the latch and means mounting the trigger arm onto the lever so that as the link part moves against and beyond the trigger arm in the first direction of movement of the link the trigger arm bears against and moves the lever, and as the link part moves against the trigger arm in the direction opposite the first direction the trigger arm moves relative to the lever sufficiently to allow the link part to move beyond the trigger arm.
9. The additive dispensing structure according to claim 7 wherein the link movement is translatory in the path portion and the trigger arm is pivotally mounted for rotation relative to the lever.
10. In a dishwashing apparatus having a tub defining a wash chamber, said tub having an opening and an associated movable door for covering the opening, means defining a reservoir, dispensing structure for delivering an additive from said reservoir into the wash chamber, a timer mechanism for controlling operation of the dishwashing apparatus in a dishwashing cycle, cam means on the timer mechanism for controlling operation of the dispensing structure for causing delivery of additive from the reservoir to said wash chamber at a preselected time in the dishwashing cycle, and actuating structure interconnecting the timer mechanism and dispensing structure, said actuating structure comprising:
an elongate actuating link;
means mounting the actuating link to the door for longitudinal movement;
means connecting said cam means on said timer mechanism to said actuating link for causing longitudinal movement of said actuating link through a prescribed path;
said connecting means moving said actuating link in a first longitudinal direction through a portion of said prescribed path during a first portion of the dishwashing cycle and during a second portion of the dishwashing cycle through said path portion in a direction opposite said first direction;
a cover for said reservoir;
means movably mounting the cover to the door for movement between an open position and a closed position, including means for biasing said cover to said open position;
a latch for said cover mounted rotatably between a first position and a second position;
said latch in said first position locking said cover in a closed position;
said latch in said second position releasing said cover to allow said biasing means to move said cover to its open position;
a trigger;
means movably mounting the trigger to the latch in the path of the actuating link to be engaged by the actuating link; and cooperating means on the trigger, latch, and actuating link for a) movement of the trigger against the latch for movement of the latch from its first position to its second position upon the actuating link moving in the first longitudinal direction and b) movement of the trigger relative to the latch without moving the latch with the latch in its first position as the actuating link moves in the opposite longitudinal direction against and past the trigger;
whereby said cover is released to said open position only when said actuating link moves against and past said trigger in said first longitudinal direction.
an elongate actuating link;
means mounting the actuating link to the door for longitudinal movement;
means connecting said cam means on said timer mechanism to said actuating link for causing longitudinal movement of said actuating link through a prescribed path;
said connecting means moving said actuating link in a first longitudinal direction through a portion of said prescribed path during a first portion of the dishwashing cycle and during a second portion of the dishwashing cycle through said path portion in a direction opposite said first direction;
a cover for said reservoir;
means movably mounting the cover to the door for movement between an open position and a closed position, including means for biasing said cover to said open position;
a latch for said cover mounted rotatably between a first position and a second position;
said latch in said first position locking said cover in a closed position;
said latch in said second position releasing said cover to allow said biasing means to move said cover to its open position;
a trigger;
means movably mounting the trigger to the latch in the path of the actuating link to be engaged by the actuating link; and cooperating means on the trigger, latch, and actuating link for a) movement of the trigger against the latch for movement of the latch from its first position to its second position upon the actuating link moving in the first longitudinal direction and b) movement of the trigger relative to the latch without moving the latch with the latch in its first position as the actuating link moves in the opposite longitudinal direction against and past the trigger;
whereby said cover is released to said open position only when said actuating link moves against and past said trigger in said first longitudinal direction.
11. The actuating structure according to claim 10 wherein the means for moving said latch comprises a lever, means pivotally mounting the lever to the latch for rotation about a first axis and means mounting the trigger to the lever for rotation about a second axis that is substantially parallel to the first axis.
12. The actuating structure according to claim 10 wherein the means for moving said latch comprises a lever, means pivotally mounting the lever to the latch for rotation about a first axis and means mounting the trigger to the lever for rotation about a second axis.
13. The actuating structure according to claim 10 wherein the means for moving said latch comprises a lever, means pivotally mounting said lever to the latch for rotation about a first axis, means mounting the trigger to the lever for rotation about a second axis) whereby movement of the link in the first longitudinal direction bears the trigger against the lever so that the lever pivots, thereby allowing the lever to move the latch from the first position to the second position and movement of the link in the opposite longitudinal direction pivots the trigger in a first rotational direction relative to the lever without pivoting the lever.
14. The actuating structure according to claim 10 wherein the means for moving said latch comprises a lever, means pivotally mounting said lever to the latch for rotation about a first axis, means mounting the trigger to the lever for rotation about a second axis, whereby movement of the link in the first longitudinal direction bears the trigger against the lever so that the lever pivots, thereby allowing the lever to move the latch from the first position to the second position and movement of the link in the opposite longitudinal direction pivots the trigger in a first rotational direction relative to the lever without pivoting the lever and further including means biasing the trigger in a rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.
15. The actuating structure according to claim 10 wherein means bias the latch to its first position.
16. The actuating structure according to claim 10 wherein the means for moving said latch comprises a lever, means pivotally mounting said lever to the latch for rotation about a first axis, means mounting the trigger to the lever for rotation about a second axis, whereby movement of the link in the first longitudinal direction bears the trigger against the lever so that the lever pivots, thereby allowing the lever to move the latch from the first position to the second position and movement of the link in the opposite longitudinal direction pivots the trigger in a first rotational direction relative to the lever without pivoting the lever and further including means biasing the trigger in a rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction and against the lever so that the lever biases the latch towards the first position.
17. The actuating structure according to claim 10 wherein said cooperating means comprises said trigger having an arm and a portion of the link moves against said trigger arm upon the link moving through said path portion there is a ramped surface on at least one of the trigger arm and link portion, said ramped surface on the one of the trigger arm and link portion is in the path of and engages the other of the trigger arm and link portion as the link moves in the first direction and thereby shifts the trigger causing movement of the latch between its first and second positions.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US90099986A | 1986-08-27 | 1986-08-27 | |
| US900,999 | 1986-08-27 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1288666C true CA1288666C (en) | 1991-09-10 |
Family
ID=25413444
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000544353A Expired - Fee Related CA1288666C (en) | 1986-08-27 | 1987-08-12 | Mechanically actuated detergent dispenser for dishwasher |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP0258024A3 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1288666C (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IT1271120B (en) * | 1994-12-06 | 1997-05-26 | Tecnolplastica Prealpina S P A | DISPENSER DRAWER FOR DISHWASHER MACHINES FOR USE AS DOUBLE OR SINGLE-SHAPED DISPENSER |
| US7083071B1 (en) | 2000-06-08 | 2006-08-01 | Beverage Works, Inc. | Drink supply canister for beverage dispensing apparatus |
| US7754025B1 (en) | 2000-06-08 | 2010-07-13 | Beverage Works, Inc. | Dishwasher having a door supply housing which holds dish washing supply for multiple wash cycles |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3125249A (en) * | 1964-03-17 | Dishwasher with improved treating agent dispenser mechanism | ||
| US3102664A (en) * | 1961-08-25 | 1963-09-03 | Design & Mfg Corp | Sequential detergent dispenser |
| FR2443232A1 (en) * | 1978-12-08 | 1980-07-04 | Esswein Sa | Control assembly for washing machines - allows manual control intermission during automatic programming sequence |
| DE3232582A1 (en) * | 1982-09-02 | 1984-04-26 | Bauknecht Hausgeräte GmbH, 7000 Stuttgart | Device for actuating mechanically releasable cleaning-, rinsing- or washing-agent dispensers |
-
1987
- 1987-08-12 CA CA000544353A patent/CA1288666C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1987-08-24 EP EP87307458A patent/EP0258024A3/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| EP0258024A3 (en) | 1989-01-25 |
| EP0258024A2 (en) | 1988-03-02 |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKLA | Lapsed |