US20150216388A1 - Dishwasher appliance and method for operating same - Google Patents
Dishwasher appliance and method for operating same Download PDFInfo
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- US20150216388A1 US20150216388A1 US14/170,686 US201414170686A US2015216388A1 US 20150216388 A1 US20150216388 A1 US 20150216388A1 US 201414170686 A US201414170686 A US 201414170686A US 2015216388 A1 US2015216388 A1 US 2015216388A1
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- door
- dishwasher appliance
- fluid
- fan
- wet cycle
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- 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
- A47L15/0002—Washing processes, i.e. machine working principles characterised by phases or operational steps
- A47L15/0005—Rinsing phases, e.g. pre-rinsing, intermediate rinsing, final rinsing
-
- 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
- A47L15/48—Drying arrangements
- A47L15/488—Connections of the tub with the ambient air, e.g. air intake or venting arrangements
-
- 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
- A47L15/0002—Washing processes, i.e. machine working principles characterised by phases or operational steps
- A47L15/0007—Washing phases
-
- 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
- A47L15/0018—Controlling processes, i.e. processes to control the operation of the machine characterised by the purpose or target of the control
- A47L15/0049—Detection or prevention of malfunction, including accident prevention
-
- 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
- A47L15/0018—Controlling processes, i.e. processes to control the operation of the machine characterised by the purpose or target of the control
- A47L15/0021—Regulation of operational steps within the washing processes, e.g. optimisation or improvement of operational steps depending from the detergent nature or from the condition of the crockery
- A47L15/0026—Rinsing phases
-
- 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
- A47L15/0018—Controlling processes, i.e. processes to control the operation of the machine characterised by the purpose or target of the control
- A47L15/0021—Regulation of operational steps within the washing processes, e.g. optimisation or improvement of operational steps depending from the detergent nature or from the condition of the crockery
- A47L15/0028—Washing phases
-
- 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
- A47L15/0018—Controlling processes, i.e. processes to control the operation of the machine characterised by the purpose or target of the control
- A47L15/0021—Regulation of operational steps within the washing processes, e.g. optimisation or improvement of operational steps depending from the detergent nature or from the condition of the crockery
- A47L15/0034—Drying phases, including dripping-off phases
-
- 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
- A47L15/4251—Details of the casing
- A47L15/4257—Details of the loading door
-
- 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
- A47L2301/00—Manual input in controlling methods of washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware, i.e. information entered by a user
- A47L2301/08—Other manual input
-
- 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
- A47L2401/00—Automatic detection in controlling methods of washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware, e.g. information provided by sensors entered into controlling devices
- A47L2401/20—Time, e.g. elapsed operating time
-
- 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
- A47L2401/00—Automatic detection in controlling methods of washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware, e.g. information provided by sensors entered into controlling devices
- A47L2401/26—Loading door status, e.g. door latch opened or closed state
-
- 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
- A47L2501/00—Output in controlling method of washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware, i.e. quantities or components controlled, or actions performed by the controlling device executing the controlling method
- A47L2501/10—Air circulation, e.g. air intake or venting arrangements
-
- 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
- A47L2501/00—Output in controlling method of washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware, i.e. quantities or components controlled, or actions performed by the controlling device executing the controlling method
- A47L2501/12—Air blowers
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates generally to dishwasher appliances, and more particularly to methods and apparatus for ventilation of dishwasher appliances during operation.
- Modern dishwashers typically include a wash chamber where e.g., detergent, water, and heat can be applied to clean food or other materials from dishes and other articles being washed.
- Various cycles may be included as part of the overall cleaning process.
- a typical, user-selected cleaning option may include a wash cycle and rinse cycle (referred to collectively as a wet cycle), as well as a drying cycle.
- a pre-wash cycle may also be included as part of the wet cycle, and may be automatic or an option for particularly soiled dishes.
- the wash chamber it may be desirable to allow heated fluid—typically steam—to be vented from the wash chamber.
- heated fluid typically steam
- venting allows e.g., for the removal of moisture from the dishes and helps dissipate heat from the drying cycle.
- cleaning can be improved by keeping the wash chamber sealed so as to retain heat energy while a heated mixture of water and detergent is sprayed against the dishes and other articles. Maintaining a closed chamber during the pre-wash and wash cycle can also be necessary in order to prevent fluid from being ejected.
- vents have been provided near the top of the front door of the dishwasher to allow for the escape of fluid from the wash chamber.
- active vents are utilized.
- the flow of fluid through such active vents is commonly controlled through a curtain or other cover that is driven by a motor connected through a drive mechanism.
- the motor must be electrically powered and activated at appropriate times during the cleaning process.
- this conventional configuration typically adds expense to the manufacture and maintenance of a dishwashing appliance.
- passive vents are utilized.
- the flow of fluid through such passive vents is passively controlled based on the configuration of the vents, such as the sizes of the holes defined in the vent.
- water sheets the holes and prevents fluid flow through the vent.
- fluid is allowed to flow through the vent due to the lack of sheeting.
- fluids such as liquid or humid air
- fluids can escape through the vent during a wet cycle.
- fluid may passively flow through the vent before sheeting occurs.
- the existence of fluid within the door that has escaped past a vent can in many cases be undesirable.
- the fluid can interact with electronics in the door, which can cause electronics failure and resulting undesirable consumer reactions.
- dishwasher appliances and methods for operating dishwasher appliances are desired.
- dishwasher appliances and methods that can actively reduce or prevent door humidity and condensation during wet cycles would be advantageous.
- a dishwasher appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, includes a chamber for the receipt of articles for cleaning, and a door for selectively opening and closing the dishwasher appliance, the door having an interior wall and a bottom.
- the dishwasher appliance further includes a conduit disposed within the door, the conduit defining a passage extending between a first end and a second end, the first end defined in the interior wall for the egress of fluid from the chamber, the second end defined in the door for the egress of fluid from the conduit.
- the dishwasher appliance further includes a vent for controlling the egress of fluid from the chamber through the first end, the vent received into the door, and a fan disposed within the passage, the fan operable to flow fluid from the chamber into the conduit.
- the dishwasher appliance further includes a controller in communication with the fan, the controller operable to activate the fan during a wet cycle.
- a method for operating a dishwasher appliance includes initiating a wet cycle, and activating a fan disposed within a door of the dishwasher appliance during the wet cycle.
- the fan is in fluid communication with a chamber of the dishwasher appliance. Upon activation of the fan, fluid from the chamber is flowable from the chamber through a conduit disposed within the door.
- a method for operating a dishwasher appliance includes initiating a wet cycle, and actively flowing fluid from a chamber of the dishwasher appliance through a conduit disposed within a door of the dishwasher appliance during the wet cycle. The method further includes exhausting the fluid from the conduit externally of the dishwasher appliance.
- FIG. 1 provides a front, perspective view of a dishwasher appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIG. 2 provides a side, cross-sectional view of a dishwasher appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of the inside of a door of a dishwasher appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of internal components of a portion of a door of a dishwasher appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method for operating a dishwasher appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a method for operating a dishwasher appliance in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 depict an exemplary domestic dishwasher appliance 100 that may be configured in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.
- the dishwasher appliance 100 includes a cabinet 102 having a tub 104 therein that defines a wash chamber 106 .
- Chamber 106 is configured for the receipt of articles for cleaning, such as dishes, cups, utensils, etc.
- the tub 104 includes a front opening (not shown) and a door 120 hinged at or near its bottom 122 for movement between a normally closed vertical position (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 ), wherein the wash chamber 106 is sealed shut for washing operation, and a horizontal open position for loading and unloading of articles from the dishwasher appliance 100 .
- Latch 123 may in some embodiments be used to lock and unlock door 120 for access to chamber 106 .
- Upper and lower guide rails 124 , 126 are mounted on tub side walls 128 and accommodate roller-equipped rack assemblies 130 and 132 .
- Each of the rack assemblies 130 , 132 may be fabricated into lattice structures including a plurality of elongated members 134 (for clarity of illustration, not all elongated members making up assemblies 130 and 132 are shown in FIG. 2 ).
- Each rack 130 , 132 is adapted for movement between an extended loading position (not shown) in which the rack is substantially positioned outside the wash chamber 106 , and a retracted position (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 ) in which the rack is located inside the wash chamber 106 .
- a silverware basket (not shown) may be removably attached to rack assembly 132 and/or 130 for placement of silverware, utensils, and the like, that are otherwise too small to be accommodated by the racks 130 , 132 .
- the dishwasher appliance 100 further includes a lower spray-arm assembly 144 that is rotatably mounted within a lower region 146 of the wash chamber 106 and above a tub sump portion 142 so as to rotate in relatively close proximity to rack assembly 132 .
- a mid-level spray-arm assembly 148 is located in an upper region of the wash chamber 106 and may be located in close proximity to upper rack 130 .
- an upper spray assembly 150 may be located above the upper rack 130 .
- the lower and mid-level spray-arm assemblies 144 , 148 and the upper spray assembly 150 are fed by a fluid circulation assembly 152 for circulating water and dishwasher fluid in the tub 104 .
- the fluid circulation assembly 152 may include a pump 154 located in a machinery compartment 140 located below the bottom sump portion 142 of the tub 104 , as generally recognized in the art.
- Each spray-arm assembly 144 , 148 includes an arrangement of discharge ports or orifices for directing washing liquid onto dishes or other articles located in rack assemblies 130 and 132 .
- the arrangement of the discharge ports in spray-arm assemblies 144 , 148 provides a rotational force by virtue of washing fluid flowing through the discharge ports.
- the resultant rotation of the lower spray-arm assembly 144 provides coverage of dishes and other dishwasher contents with a washing spray.
- the dishwasher 100 is further equipped with a controller 137 to regulate operation of the dishwasher 100 .
- the controller may include a memory and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with a cleaning cycle.
- the memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH.
- the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory.
- the memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor.
- the controller 137 may be positioned in a variety of locations throughout dishwasher 100 .
- the controller 137 may be located within a control panel area 121 of door 120 as shown.
- I/O input/output
- the controller 137 includes a user interface panel 136 through which a user may select various operational features and modes and monitor progress of the dishwasher 100 .
- the user interface 136 may represent a general purpose I/O (“GPIO”) device or functional block.
- GPIO general purpose I/O
- the user interface 136 may include input components, such as one or more of a variety of electrical, mechanical or electro-mechanical input devices including rotary dials, push buttons, and touch pads.
- the user interface 136 may include a display component, such as a digital or analog display device designed to provide operational feedback to a user.
- the user interface 136 may be in communication with the controller 137 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.
- dishwasher appliance 100 may utilize a variety of cycles to wash and, optionally, dry articles within chamber 106 .
- a wet cycle is utilized to wash articles.
- the wet cycle may include a main wash cycle and a rinse cycle, as well as an optional pre-wash cycle.
- water or another suitable liquid may be utilized in chamber 106 to interact with and clean articles therein.
- Such liquid may, for example, be directed into chamber 106 from lower and mid-level spray-arm assemblies 144 , 148 and the upper spray assembly 150 .
- the liquid may additionally mix with, for example, detergent or other various additives which are released into the chamber during various sub-cycles of the wet cycle.
- a drying cycle may be utilized to dry articles after washing.
- a heating element (not shown) may heat the chamber 106 to facilitate drying of the articles and evaporation of liquid within the chamber 106 . In generally, no liquid is sprayed or otherwise produced during the drying cycle.
- the invention is not limited to any particular style, model, or other configuration of dishwasher, and that the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 is for illustrative purposes only.
- the dishwasher 100 may be of a known configuration that utilizes drawers that pull out from the cabinet and are accessible from the top for loading and unloading of articles. Other configurations may be used as well.
- FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of door 120 .
- Door 120 includes a bottom 122 (which is typically hollow, but may alternatively include a wall) as well as an interior wall 160 and an exterior wall 162 .
- the interior wall 160 and exterior wall 162 define a door interior 164 therebetween.
- Door 120 additionally includes a left side wall 166 , right side wall 168 , and top side wall 170 , as illustrated.
- door 120 includes a tray 172 for the receipt of dishwashing detergent and a compartment 174 for rinse cycle additives.
- door 120 is formed from an inner door section and an outer door section.
- the inner door section includes the interior wall 160
- the outer door section includes the exterior wall 162 .
- the inner and outer door sections are fastened together to form the door 120 , and to define the interior 164 between the walls 160 , 162 .
- a vent 180 may be provided and received into the door 120 , such as into the interior wall 160 , for controlling the egress of fluid from the chamber 106 .
- Vent 180 may be located near top side wall 170 and/or at any suitable location on the door 120 .
- Vent 180 may include one or more apertures 182 defined in vent 180 through which a fluid such as e.g., steam or air may flow to escape from chamber 106 .
- the particularly configuration—including the number and shape—of apertures shown in FIG. 3 is provided by way of example only. Multiple other placements and shapes may be used instead of the apertures 182 illustrated. Using the teachings disclosed herein, one of skill in the art will understand that a variety of other configurations for the arrangement of apertures to release fluid from wash chamber 106 may be provided as well.
- vent 180 is a passive vent.
- no active mechanical or electronic mechanisms are utilized to control vent 180 and aperture 182 opening and closing to control the egress of fluid therethrough. Rather, such control is provided passively based, for example, on the size, shape, number and positioning of apertures 182 .
- liquid contacting the vent 180 may sheet the vent 180 , thus covering the aperture 182 with a sheet of liquid and preventing the egress of fluid therethrough.
- no sheeting occurs and the aperatures 182 are thus not covered, so fluid may egress through apertures 182 .
- vent 180 may be an active vent, and various mechanical and/or electronic mechanisms, as are generally known in the art, may be utilized to control vent 180 and aperture 182 opening and closing to control the egress of fluid therethrough.
- Such mechanical and/or electronic mechanisms may, for example, be in communication with controller 137 , and may actuate based on signals from the controller 137 to selectively prevent or allow egress of fluid through apertures 182 .
- a conduit 190 may be disposed within the door 120 .
- Conduit 190 may provide a path for the flow of fluid that passes through vent 180 to be exhausted from the dishwasher appliance 100 .
- Conduit 190 may, for example, define a passage 192 extending between a first end 194 and a second end 196 , each of which is an opening for access to the passage 192 .
- the first end 194 may, for example, be defined in the door 120 , such as in the interior wall 160 thereof, and may be provided for the egress of fluid from the chamber 106 .
- Vent 180 may generally cover and be received in or on the first end 194 , such that fluid that flows through apertures 182 further flows through first end, egressing from chamber 106 into conduit 190 .
- the second end 196 may additionally be defined in the door 120 and provided for the egress of fluid from the conduit 190 .
- Second end 196 may, for example, be defined proximate, such as within the area defining, the bottom 122 of the door 120 . Accordingly, fluid may flow through apertures 182 into passage 192 of conduit 190 , and from passage 192 through second end 196 to exterior of the dishwasher appliance 100 .
- conduit 190 is a separate component from the inner door section and outer door section.
- conduit 190 may be integral with the inner door section, or the outer door section.
- a fan 200 may be disposed in the passage 192 of conduit 190 .
- Fan 200 may be operated to actively flow fluid into and through conduit 190 .
- any fluid flow into and through conduit 190 may be only passive fluid flow, encouraged only by environmental factors, operation of components external to conduit 190 and door 120 , etc.
- fan 200 When fan 200 is operating the fan 200 may draw fluid into the passage 192 , such as through first end 194 and a port 202 as discussed below, thus actively flowing fluid into and through the conduit 190 .
- conduit 190 may further include a port 202 defined therein.
- the port 202 may provide a second opening for the flow of fluid into the passage 192 .
- port 202 may provide fluid communication between the passage 192 and the interior 164 of the door 120 , such that port 202 provide for the egress of fluid form the interior 164 .
- the fan 200 is disposed downstream of the port 202 in the direction of flow of fluid through the passage 192 (from first end 194 towards second end 196 ), such that fan 200 when operating may additionally actively flow fluid from the interior 164 .
- fan 200 When fan 200 is operating in embodiments which include a port 202 , the fan 200 generally draws relatively humid fluid, such as humid gas, through first end 194 . Fan 200 may additionally draw relatively dry fluid, such as dry gas, from the interior 164 . The humid and dry gas may mix within the passage 192 , such that the resulting fluid being exhausted through the second end 196 is less humid that the humid air entering the first end 194 . This reduces or prevents condensation exterior to the dishwasher appliance.
- relatively humid fluid such as humid gas
- Fan 200 may additionally draw relatively dry fluid, such as dry gas, from the interior 164 .
- the humid and dry gas may mix within the passage 192 , such that the resulting fluid being exhausted through the second end 196 is less humid that the humid air entering the first end 194 . This reduces or prevents condensation exterior to the dishwasher appliance.
- dishwasher appliance 100 includes controller 137 .
- Controller 137 in exemplary embodiments is in communication with the fan 200 (such as through a suitable wireless or wired connection), and thus may be operable to activate (turn on) and deactivate (turn off) the fan 200 .
- the controller 137 may be operable to activate the fan 200 during the wet cycle.
- fluid can undesirably enter the conduit 190 during the wet cycle.
- fluid can enter the conduit 190 before sheeting occurs.
- Such fluid in these cases can be liquid and/or humid gas. Activating the fan 200 during the wet cycle can provide a variety of advantages for the dishwasher appliance 100 .
- the fan 200 can actively flow such fluid through the passage 192 and the second end 196 , thus drying and dehumidifying the conduit 190 .
- activating the fan 200 may prevent or reduce fluid from flowing from the passage 192 through port 202 into the interior 164 of the door 120 . This reduces or prevents the collection of fluid in the interior 164 and the interaction of such fluid with electronics, etc. in the interior 164 .
- controller 137 may additionally be operable to activate the fan 200 during the dry cycle, to generally flow fluid into, through and from the conduit 190 . Such operation during the dry cycle assists with removing moisture and humidity from the chamber 106 and drying articles within the chamber 106 .
- controller 137 may activate the fan 200 during a wet cycle for a predetermined time period.
- time period of fan 200 operation may provide a predetermined and defined period during which moisture and humidity removal from the conduit 190 may occur.
- a predetermined time period may be between approximately 30 seconds and approximately 150 seconds, such as between approximately 60 seconds and approximately 120 seconds, such as between approximately 80 seconds and approximately 100 seconds.
- suitable predetermined time period may be utilized.
- controller 137 may activate the fan 200 , such as for a predetermined time period, upon initiation of the wet cycle. For example, after a user selects a desired operation of the dishwasher appliance 100 , the controller 137 may initiate the wet cycle based on the user's instructions. Upon such initiation, and as a consequence of initiating the wet cycle, the controller 137 may additionally activate the fan 200 . Such activation may facilitate active flow through the conduit 190 at the beginning of the wet cycle, such as in the case of a passive vent 180 before sheeting has occurred.
- controller 137 may activate the fan 200 , such as for a predetermined time period, upon receiving a signal that the door 120 has been closed.
- the controller 137 may, for example, be in communication (through a suitable wired or wireless connection) with the door 120 , such as with the latch 123 thereof. Actuation of the latch 123 may for example indicate opening and closing of the door.
- the controller 137 may thus receive signals when the door 120 is opened and when the door 120 is closed.
- the controller 137 may activate the fan 200 .
- Such activation may facilitate active flow through the conduit 190 at, for example, re-starts of the wet cycle after the wet cycle has been paused, such as in the case of a passive vent 180 before sheeting has occurred after previous sheeting has been broken.
- a method may include, for example, the step 400 of initiating a wet cycle.
- a user may select a desired operation of the dishwasher appliance 100 on user interface panel 136 , and controller 137 may initiate the wet cycle based on such instructions.
- a method may further include, for example, the step 410 of activating the fan 200 during the wet cycle.
- the fan 200 may be disposed within the door 120 , and may be in fluid communication with the chamber 106 , as discussed herein. Upon activation of the fan 200 , fluid from the chamber 106 is flowable, such as actively flowable, from the chamber 106 through the conduit 190 disposed in the door 120 .
- the fan 200 may be disposed within the conduit 190 .
- the fan 200 may be activated for a predetermined time period, as discussed herein. Further, in some embodiments, the activating step 410 may occur as a consequence of the initiating step 400 . Additionally or alternatively, a method according to the present disclosure may include the step 420 of receiving a signal during the wet cycle that the door 120 has been closed, as discussed herein. The activating step 410 may thus additionally or alternatively occur as a consequence of the receiving step 420 .
- a method according to the present disclosure may further, for example, include the step 430 of actively flowing fluid from the chamber 106 through the conduit 190 during the wet cycle.
- fan 200 may be operable to actively flow such fluid.
- the fluid may be flowed from the chamber 106 past vent 180 to the conduit 190 , as discussed herein.
- a method according to the present disclosure may further, for example, include the step 440 of exhausting the fluid from the conduit 190 externally of the dishwasher appliance 100 .
- fluid may be exhausted through second end 196 of conduit 190 .
- a method according to the present disclosure may further, for example, include the step 450 of mixing within the conduit 190 the fluid from the chamber 106 with fluid from the interior 164 of the door 120 .
- fluid from the interior 164 may be actively flowed through port 202 into passage 192 due to operation of the fan 200 , as discussed herein.
- Such methods may advantageously reduce moisture and humidity in the door 120 during the wet cycle, as discussed herein, particularly in embodiments wherein passive vents 180 and ports 202 are utilized.
Abstract
Dishwasher appliances and methods are provided. A dishwasher appliance includes a chamber and a door, the door having an interior wall and a bottom. The dishwasher appliance further includes a conduit disposed within the door, the conduit defining a passage extending between a first end and a second end, the first end defined in the interior wall for the egress of fluid from the chamber, the second end defined in the door for the egress of fluid from the conduit. The dishwasher appliance further includes a vent for controlling the egress of fluid from the chamber through the first end, the vent received into the door, and a fan disposed within the passage, the fan operable to flow fluid from the chamber into the conduit. The dishwasher appliance further includes a controller in communication with the fan, the controller operable to activate the fan during a wet cycle.
Description
- The present disclosure relates generally to dishwasher appliances, and more particularly to methods and apparatus for ventilation of dishwasher appliances during operation.
- Modern dishwashers typically include a wash chamber where e.g., detergent, water, and heat can be applied to clean food or other materials from dishes and other articles being washed. Various cycles may be included as part of the overall cleaning process. For example, a typical, user-selected cleaning option may include a wash cycle and rinse cycle (referred to collectively as a wet cycle), as well as a drying cycle. A pre-wash cycle may also be included as part of the wet cycle, and may be automatic or an option for particularly soiled dishes.
- In one or more of these cycles, particularly during the drying cycle, it may be desirable to allow heated fluid—typically steam—to be vented from the wash chamber. Such venting allows e.g., for the removal of moisture from the dishes and helps dissipate heat from the drying cycle. Conversely, it is also desirable to retain fluids and heat during other parts of the cleaning process. For example, during the wet cycle, cleaning can be improved by keeping the wash chamber sealed so as to retain heat energy while a heated mixture of water and detergent is sprayed against the dishes and other articles. Maintaining a closed chamber during the pre-wash and wash cycle can also be necessary in order to prevent fluid from being ejected.
- Conventionally, one or more vents have been provided near the top of the front door of the dishwasher to allow for the escape of fluid from the wash chamber. In some cases, active vents are utilized. The flow of fluid through such active vents is commonly controlled through a curtain or other cover that is driven by a motor connected through a drive mechanism. The motor must be electrically powered and activated at appropriate times during the cleaning process. As such, this conventional configuration typically adds expense to the manufacture and maintenance of a dishwashing appliance.
- Accordingly, in other cases, passive vents are utilized. The flow of fluid through such passive vents is passively controlled based on the configuration of the vents, such as the sizes of the holes defined in the vent. During the wet cycle, water sheets the holes and prevents fluid flow through the vent. During the drying cycle, fluid is allowed to flow through the vent due to the lack of sheeting.
- In some cases, however, fluids, such as liquid or humid air, can escape through the vent during a wet cycle. For example, in the case of a passive vent, during the wet cycle fluid may passively flow through the vent before sheeting occurs. The existence of fluid within the door that has escaped past a vent can in many cases be undesirable. For example, the fluid can interact with electronics in the door, which can cause electronics failure and resulting undesirable consumer reactions.
- Accordingly, improved dishwasher appliances and methods for operating dishwasher appliances are desired. For example, dishwasher appliances and methods that can actively reduce or prevent door humidity and condensation during wet cycles would be advantageous.
- Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.
- In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a dishwasher appliance is provided. The dishwasher appliance includes a chamber for the receipt of articles for cleaning, and a door for selectively opening and closing the dishwasher appliance, the door having an interior wall and a bottom. The dishwasher appliance further includes a conduit disposed within the door, the conduit defining a passage extending between a first end and a second end, the first end defined in the interior wall for the egress of fluid from the chamber, the second end defined in the door for the egress of fluid from the conduit. The dishwasher appliance further includes a vent for controlling the egress of fluid from the chamber through the first end, the vent received into the door, and a fan disposed within the passage, the fan operable to flow fluid from the chamber into the conduit. The dishwasher appliance further includes a controller in communication with the fan, the controller operable to activate the fan during a wet cycle.
- In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for operating a dishwasher appliance is provided. The method includes initiating a wet cycle, and activating a fan disposed within a door of the dishwasher appliance during the wet cycle. The fan is in fluid communication with a chamber of the dishwasher appliance. Upon activation of the fan, fluid from the chamber is flowable from the chamber through a conduit disposed within the door.
- In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for operating a dishwasher appliance is provided. The method includes initiating a wet cycle, and actively flowing fluid from a chamber of the dishwasher appliance through a conduit disposed within a door of the dishwasher appliance during the wet cycle. The method further includes exhausting the fluid from the conduit externally of the dishwasher appliance.
- These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.
- A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:
-
FIG. 1 provides a front, perspective view of a dishwasher appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 2 provides a side, cross-sectional view of a dishwasher appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of the inside of a door of a dishwasher appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of internal components of a portion of a door of a dishwasher appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method for operating a dishwasher appliance in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure; and -
FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a method for operating a dishwasher appliance in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. - Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
-
FIGS. 1 and 2 depict an exemplarydomestic dishwasher appliance 100 that may be configured in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. For the particular embodiment ofFIG. 2 , thedishwasher appliance 100 includes acabinet 102 having atub 104 therein that defines awash chamber 106.Chamber 106 is configured for the receipt of articles for cleaning, such as dishes, cups, utensils, etc. Thetub 104 includes a front opening (not shown) and adoor 120 hinged at or near itsbottom 122 for movement between a normally closed vertical position (shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 ), wherein thewash chamber 106 is sealed shut for washing operation, and a horizontal open position for loading and unloading of articles from thedishwasher appliance 100. Latch 123 may in some embodiments be used to lock and unlockdoor 120 for access tochamber 106. - Upper and
lower guide rails tub side walls 128 and accommodate roller-equippedrack assemblies assemblies FIG. 2 ). Eachrack wash chamber 106, and a retracted position (shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 ) in which the rack is located inside thewash chamber 106. This is facilitated byrollers racks assembly 132 and/or 130 for placement of silverware, utensils, and the like, that are otherwise too small to be accommodated by theracks - The
dishwasher appliance 100 further includes a lower spray-arm assembly 144 that is rotatably mounted within alower region 146 of thewash chamber 106 and above atub sump portion 142 so as to rotate in relatively close proximity to rackassembly 132. A mid-level spray-arm assembly 148 is located in an upper region of thewash chamber 106 and may be located in close proximity toupper rack 130. Additionally, anupper spray assembly 150 may be located above theupper rack 130. - The lower and mid-level spray-
arm assemblies upper spray assembly 150 are fed by afluid circulation assembly 152 for circulating water and dishwasher fluid in thetub 104. Thefluid circulation assembly 152 may include apump 154 located in amachinery compartment 140 located below thebottom sump portion 142 of thetub 104, as generally recognized in the art. Each spray-arm assembly rack assemblies arm assemblies arm assembly 144 provides coverage of dishes and other dishwasher contents with a washing spray. - The
dishwasher 100 is further equipped with acontroller 137 to regulate operation of thedishwasher 100. The controller may include a memory and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with a cleaning cycle. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. - The
controller 137 may be positioned in a variety of locations throughoutdishwasher 100. In the illustrated embodiment, thecontroller 137 may be located within acontrol panel area 121 ofdoor 120 as shown. In such an embodiment, input/output (“I/O”) signals may be routed between the control system and various operational components ofdishwasher 100 along wiring harnesses that may be routed through thebottom 122 ofdoor 120. Typically, thecontroller 137 includes auser interface panel 136 through which a user may select various operational features and modes and monitor progress of thedishwasher 100. In one embodiment, theuser interface 136 may represent a general purpose I/O (“GPIO”) device or functional block. In one embodiment, theuser interface 136 may include input components, such as one or more of a variety of electrical, mechanical or electro-mechanical input devices including rotary dials, push buttons, and touch pads. Theuser interface 136 may include a display component, such as a digital or analog display device designed to provide operational feedback to a user. Theuser interface 136 may be in communication with thecontroller 137 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses. - In general,
dishwasher appliance 100 may utilize a variety of cycles to wash and, optionally, dry articles withinchamber 106. For example, a wet cycle is utilized to wash articles. The wet cycle may include a main wash cycle and a rinse cycle, as well as an optional pre-wash cycle. During each such cycle, water or another suitable liquid may be utilized inchamber 106 to interact with and clean articles therein. Such liquid may, for example, be directed intochamber 106 from lower and mid-level spray-arm assemblies upper spray assembly 150. The liquid may additionally mix with, for example, detergent or other various additives which are released into the chamber during various sub-cycles of the wet cycle. A drying cycle may be utilized to dry articles after washing. During a drying cycle, for example, a heating element (not shown) may heat thechamber 106 to facilitate drying of the articles and evaporation of liquid within thechamber 106. In generally, no liquid is sprayed or otherwise produced during the drying cycle. - It should be appreciated that the invention is not limited to any particular style, model, or other configuration of dishwasher, and that the embodiment depicted in
FIGS. 1 and 2 is for illustrative purposes only. For example, instead of theracks FIG. 1 , thedishwasher 100 may be of a known configuration that utilizes drawers that pull out from the cabinet and are accessible from the top for loading and unloading of articles. Other configurations may be used as well. -
FIG. 3 provides a perspective view ofdoor 120.Door 120 includes a bottom 122 (which is typically hollow, but may alternatively include a wall) as well as aninterior wall 160 and anexterior wall 162. Theinterior wall 160 andexterior wall 162 define a door interior 164 therebetween.Door 120 additionally includes aleft side wall 166,right side wall 168, andtop side wall 170, as illustrated. Further, by way of example,door 120 includes atray 172 for the receipt of dishwashing detergent and acompartment 174 for rinse cycle additives. - In exemplary embodiments,
door 120 is formed from an inner door section and an outer door section. The inner door section includes theinterior wall 160, while the outer door section includes theexterior wall 162. The inner and outer door sections are fastened together to form thedoor 120, and to define the interior 164 between thewalls - Referring still to
FIG. 3 , as well asFIG. 4 , avent 180 may be provided and received into thedoor 120, such as into theinterior wall 160, for controlling the egress of fluid from thechamber 106. Vent 180 may be located neartop side wall 170 and/or at any suitable location on thedoor 120. Vent 180 may include one ormore apertures 182 defined invent 180 through which a fluid such as e.g., steam or air may flow to escape fromchamber 106. The particularly configuration—including the number and shape—of apertures shown inFIG. 3 is provided by way of example only. Multiple other placements and shapes may be used instead of theapertures 182 illustrated. Using the teachings disclosed herein, one of skill in the art will understand that a variety of other configurations for the arrangement of apertures to release fluid fromwash chamber 106 may be provided as well. - In exemplary embodiments, vent 180 is a passive vent. In these embodiments, no active mechanical or electronic mechanisms are utilized to control
vent 180 andaperture 182 opening and closing to control the egress of fluid therethrough. Rather, such control is provided passively based, for example, on the size, shape, number and positioning ofapertures 182. For example, during the wet cycle, liquid contacting thevent 180 may sheet thevent 180, thus covering theaperture 182 with a sheet of liquid and preventing the egress of fluid therethrough. During the drying cycle, no sheeting occurs and theaperatures 182 are thus not covered, so fluid may egress throughapertures 182. In alternative embodiments, vent 180 may be an active vent, and various mechanical and/or electronic mechanisms, as are generally known in the art, may be utilized to controlvent 180 andaperture 182 opening and closing to control the egress of fluid therethrough. Such mechanical and/or electronic mechanisms may, for example, be in communication withcontroller 137, and may actuate based on signals from thecontroller 137 to selectively prevent or allow egress of fluid throughapertures 182. - Referring still to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , aconduit 190 may be disposed within thedoor 120.Conduit 190 may provide a path for the flow of fluid that passes throughvent 180 to be exhausted from thedishwasher appliance 100.Conduit 190 may, for example, define apassage 192 extending between afirst end 194 and asecond end 196, each of which is an opening for access to thepassage 192. Thefirst end 194 may, for example, be defined in thedoor 120, such as in theinterior wall 160 thereof, and may be provided for the egress of fluid from thechamber 106. Vent 180 may generally cover and be received in or on thefirst end 194, such that fluid that flows throughapertures 182 further flows through first end, egressing fromchamber 106 intoconduit 190. Thesecond end 196 may additionally be defined in thedoor 120 and provided for the egress of fluid from theconduit 190.Second end 196 may, for example, be defined proximate, such as within the area defining, thebottom 122 of thedoor 120. Accordingly, fluid may flow throughapertures 182 intopassage 192 ofconduit 190, and frompassage 192 throughsecond end 196 to exterior of thedishwasher appliance 100. - In some embodiments,
conduit 190 is a separate component from the inner door section and outer door section. Alternatively,conduit 190 may be integral with the inner door section, or the outer door section. - As illustrated in
FIG. 4 , afan 200 may be disposed in thepassage 192 ofconduit 190.Fan 200 may be operated to actively flow fluid into and throughconduit 190. For example, whenfan 200 is not operating, any fluid flow into and throughconduit 190 may be only passive fluid flow, encouraged only by environmental factors, operation of components external toconduit 190 anddoor 120, etc. Whenfan 200 is operating thefan 200 may draw fluid into thepassage 192, such as throughfirst end 194 and aport 202 as discussed below, thus actively flowing fluid into and through theconduit 190. - In some embodiments, as further illustrated in
FIG. 4 ,conduit 190 may further include aport 202 defined therein. Theport 202 may provide a second opening for the flow of fluid into thepassage 192. For example, as illustrated,port 202 may provide fluid communication between thepassage 192 and theinterior 164 of thedoor 120, such thatport 202 provide for the egress of fluid form the interior 164. In exemplary embodiments thefan 200 is disposed downstream of theport 202 in the direction of flow of fluid through the passage 192 (fromfirst end 194 towards second end 196), such thatfan 200 when operating may additionally actively flow fluid from theinterior 164. - When
fan 200 is operating in embodiments which include aport 202, thefan 200 generally draws relatively humid fluid, such as humid gas, throughfirst end 194.Fan 200 may additionally draw relatively dry fluid, such as dry gas, from theinterior 164. The humid and dry gas may mix within thepassage 192, such that the resulting fluid being exhausted through thesecond end 196 is less humid that the humid air entering thefirst end 194. This reduces or prevents condensation exterior to the dishwasher appliance. - As discussed,
dishwasher appliance 100 includescontroller 137.Controller 137 in exemplary embodiments is in communication with the fan 200 (such as through a suitable wireless or wired connection), and thus may be operable to activate (turn on) and deactivate (turn off) thefan 200. In particular, thecontroller 137 may be operable to activate thefan 200 during the wet cycle. In many cases, in particular whenpassive vents 180 are utilized, fluid can undesirably enter theconduit 190 during the wet cycle. For example, whenpassive vents 180 are utilized, fluid can enter theconduit 190 before sheeting occurs. Such fluid in these cases can be liquid and/or humid gas. Activating thefan 200 during the wet cycle can provide a variety of advantages for thedishwasher appliance 100. For example, thefan 200 can actively flow such fluid through thepassage 192 and thesecond end 196, thus drying and dehumidifying theconduit 190. Further, in cases wherein aport 202 is utilized, activating thefan 200 may prevent or reduce fluid from flowing from thepassage 192 throughport 202 into theinterior 164 of thedoor 120. This reduces or prevents the collection of fluid in the interior 164 and the interaction of such fluid with electronics, etc. in theinterior 164. - It should be noted that
controller 137 may additionally be operable to activate thefan 200 during the dry cycle, to generally flow fluid into, through and from theconduit 190. Such operation during the dry cycle assists with removing moisture and humidity from thechamber 106 and drying articles within thechamber 106. - In some exemplary embodiments,
controller 137 may activate thefan 200 during a wet cycle for a predetermined time period. Such time period offan 200 operation may provide a predetermined and defined period during which moisture and humidity removal from theconduit 190 may occur. For example, in some embodiments, a predetermined time period may be between approximately 30 seconds and approximately 150 seconds, such as between approximately 60 seconds and approximately 120 seconds, such as between approximately 80 seconds and approximately 100 seconds. Alternatively, and suitable predetermined time period may be utilized. - In some embodiments,
controller 137 may activate thefan 200, such as for a predetermined time period, upon initiation of the wet cycle. For example, after a user selects a desired operation of thedishwasher appliance 100, thecontroller 137 may initiate the wet cycle based on the user's instructions. Upon such initiation, and as a consequence of initiating the wet cycle, thecontroller 137 may additionally activate thefan 200. Such activation may facilitate active flow through theconduit 190 at the beginning of the wet cycle, such as in the case of apassive vent 180 before sheeting has occurred. - Additionally or alternatively,
controller 137 may activate thefan 200, such as for a predetermined time period, upon receiving a signal that thedoor 120 has been closed. Thecontroller 137 may, for example, be in communication (through a suitable wired or wireless connection) with thedoor 120, such as with thelatch 123 thereof. Actuation of thelatch 123 may for example indicate opening and closing of the door. Thecontroller 137 may thus receive signals when thedoor 120 is opened and when thedoor 120 is closed. During thewet cycle 137, upon and as a consequence of receiving a signal that thedoor 120 has been closed (in particular after receiving a signal that thedoor 120 has been opened), thecontroller 137 may activate thefan 200. Such activation may facilitate active flow through theconduit 190 at, for example, re-starts of the wet cycle after the wet cycle has been paused, such as in the case of apassive vent 180 before sheeting has occurred after previous sheeting has been broken. - Referring now to
FIGS. 5 and 6 , the present disclosure is further directed to methods foroperating dishwasher appliances 100. A method may include, for example, thestep 400 of initiating a wet cycle. For example, a user may select a desired operation of thedishwasher appliance 100 onuser interface panel 136, andcontroller 137 may initiate the wet cycle based on such instructions. - A method may further include, for example, the
step 410 of activating thefan 200 during the wet cycle. Thefan 200 may be disposed within thedoor 120, and may be in fluid communication with thechamber 106, as discussed herein. Upon activation of thefan 200, fluid from thechamber 106 is flowable, such as actively flowable, from thechamber 106 through theconduit 190 disposed in thedoor 120. - In exemplary embodiments as discussed herein, the
fan 200 may be disposed within theconduit 190. - In exemplary embodiments, the
fan 200 may be activated for a predetermined time period, as discussed herein. Further, in some embodiments, the activatingstep 410 may occur as a consequence of the initiatingstep 400. Additionally or alternatively, a method according to the present disclosure may include thestep 420 of receiving a signal during the wet cycle that thedoor 120 has been closed, as discussed herein. The activatingstep 410 may thus additionally or alternatively occur as a consequence of the receivingstep 420. - A method according to the present disclosure may further, for example, include the
step 430 of actively flowing fluid from thechamber 106 through theconduit 190 during the wet cycle. For example, in exemplary embodiments,fan 200 may be operable to actively flow such fluid. Further, in exemplary embodiments, the fluid may be flowed from thechamber 106past vent 180 to theconduit 190, as discussed herein. A method according to the present disclosure may further, for example, include thestep 440 of exhausting the fluid from theconduit 190 externally of thedishwasher appliance 100. For example, in exemplary embodiments, fluid may be exhausted throughsecond end 196 ofconduit 190. - In some embodiments, a method according to the present disclosure may further, for example, include the
step 450 of mixing within theconduit 190 the fluid from thechamber 106 with fluid from theinterior 164 of thedoor 120. For example, such fluid from the interior 164 may be actively flowed throughport 202 intopassage 192 due to operation of thefan 200, as discussed herein. - Such methods may advantageously reduce moisture and humidity in the
door 120 during the wet cycle, as discussed herein, particularly in embodiments whereinpassive vents 180 andports 202 are utilized. - This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.
Claims (20)
1. A dishwasher appliance, comprising:
a chamber for the receipt of articles for cleaning;
a door for selectively opening and closing the dishwasher appliance, the door having an interior wall and a bottom;
a conduit disposed within the door, the conduit defining a passage extending between a first end and a second end, the first end defined in the interior wall for the egress of fluid from the chamber, the second end defined in the door for the egress of fluid from the conduit;
a vent for controlling the egress of fluid from the chamber through the first end, the vent received into the door;
a fan disposed within the passage, the fan operable to flow fluid from the chamber into the conduit; and
a controller in communication with the fan, the controller operable to activate the fan during a wet cycle and upon receiving a signal that the door has been closed during the wet cycle after receiving a signal that the door has been opened during the wet cycle, wherein the controller activates the fan for a predetermined time period during the wet cycle upon receiving the signal that the door has been closed during the wet cycle after receiving the signal that the door has been opened during the wet cycle.
2. The dishwasher appliance of claim 1 , wherein the vent is a passive vent.
3. The dishwasher appliance of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further in communication with the door.
4. (canceled)
5. (canceled)
6. The dishwasher appliance of claim 1 , wherein the controller is operable to activate the fan upon initiation of the wet cycle.
7. The dishwasher appliance of claim 6 , wherein the controller activates the fan for a predetermined time period upon initiation of the wet cycle.
8. The dishwasher appliance of claim 1 , wherein the second end is defined proximate the bottom.
9. The dishwasher appliance of claim 1 , wherein a port is defined in the conduit.
10. The dishwasher appliance of claim 9 , wherein the dishwasher appliance further has an exterior wall, and wherein a door interior is defined between the interior wall and the exterior wall, and wherein the port is defined in the conduit for the egress of fluid front the door interior.
11. The dishwasher appliance of claim 9 , wherein the fan is positioned downstream of the port.
12. A method for operating a dishwasher appliance, the method comprising:
initiating a wet cycle; and
receiving a signal during the wet cycle that a door of the dishwasher appliance has been opened;
receiving a signal during the wet cycle that the door of the dishwasher appliance has been closed after receiving the signal during the wet cycle that the door of the dishwasher appliance has been opened;
activating, as a consequence of receiving the signal during the wet cycle that the door of the dishwasher appliance has been closed, a fan disposed within the door during the wet cycle, the fan in fluid communication with a chamber of the dishwasher appliance,
wherein upon activation of the fan, fluid from the chamber is flowable from the chamber through a conduit disposed within the door.
13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the fan is disposed within the conduit.
14. The method of claim 12 , wherein the fan is activated for a predetermined time period.
15. (canceled)
16. The method of claim 12 , wherein the activating step occurs as a consequence of the initiating step.
17. A method for operating a dishwasher appliance, the method comprising:
initiating a wet cycle;
receiving a signal during the wet cycle that a door of the dishwasher appliance has been opened;
receiving a signal during the wet cycle that the door of the dishwasher appliance has been closed after receiving the signal during the wet cycle that the door of the dishwasher appliance has been opened;
actively flowing fluid from a chamber of the dishwasher appliance through a conduit disposed within the door during the wet cycle as a consequence of receiving the signal during the wet cycle that the door of the dishwasher appliance has been closed; and
exhausting the fluid from the conduit externally of the dishwasher appliance.
18. The method of claim 17 , further comprising mixing within the conduit the fluid from the chamber with fluid from an interior of the door.
19. The method of claim 17 , wherein a fan is operable to actively flow the fluid from the chamber.
20. The method of claim 17 , wherein the fluid is flowed from the chamber past a vent to the conduit.
Priority Applications (1)
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US14/170,686 US20150216388A1 (en) | 2014-02-03 | 2014-02-03 | Dishwasher appliance and method for operating same |
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US14/170,686 US20150216388A1 (en) | 2014-02-03 | 2014-02-03 | Dishwasher appliance and method for operating same |
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US20150216388A1 true US20150216388A1 (en) | 2015-08-06 |
Family
ID=53753787
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US14/170,686 Abandoned US20150216388A1 (en) | 2014-02-03 | 2014-02-03 | Dishwasher appliance and method for operating same |
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US10506908B2 (en) * | 2016-07-22 | 2019-12-17 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Batch-type warewasher with energy retaining curtain |
CN111679062A (en) * | 2020-07-20 | 2020-09-18 | 中南大学 | Consolidation compression instrument for testing dry-wet cycle characteristics of expansive soil |
US11015571B2 (en) | 2015-12-17 | 2021-05-25 | Emprending Business, S.L. | Inner covering for wind turbine blades and method for mounting same |
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US11015571B2 (en) | 2015-12-17 | 2021-05-25 | Emprending Business, S.L. | Inner covering for wind turbine blades and method for mounting same |
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