EP4309561A1 - Household machine with a fluid distributor unit - Google Patents
Household machine with a fluid distributor unit Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP4309561A1 EP4309561A1 EP22186560.3A EP22186560A EP4309561A1 EP 4309561 A1 EP4309561 A1 EP 4309561A1 EP 22186560 A EP22186560 A EP 22186560A EP 4309561 A1 EP4309561 A1 EP 4309561A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- fluid
- valve
- unit
- household machine
- piston
- 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.)
- Pending
Links
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 47
- 238000005406 washing Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 235000013361 beverage Nutrition 0.000 claims abstract 2
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 31
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 description 9
- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000008929 regeneration Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000011069 regeneration method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000005507 spraying Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000018109 developmental process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005381 potential energy Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004064 recycling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000003839 salts Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000008234 soft water Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002351 wastewater Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
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
- A47L15/4214—Water supply, recirculation or discharge arrangements; Devices therefor
- A47L15/4219—Water recirculation
- A47L15/4221—Arrangements for redirection of washing water, e.g. water diverters to selectively supply the spray arms
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00
- D06F39/08—Liquid supply or discharge arrangements
- D06F39/088—Liquid supply 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
- A47L15/42—Details
- A47L15/4214—Water supply, recirculation or discharge arrangements; Devices therefor
- A47L15/4223—Devices for water discharge, e.g. devices to prevent siphoning, non-return valves
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
- D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00
- D06F39/08—Liquid supply or discharge arrangements
- D06F39/083—Liquid discharge or recirculation arrangements
Definitions
- the invention relates to a household machine with a fluid distribution unit.
- Dishwashers known from prior art generally have two spraying devices or spraying arms to clean the dishes removing or spraying the dirt away.
- the dishwasher comprises in particular a circulating pump which conveys the rinsing liquid, for example, from the sump of the interior to the spray arms via the reversing device or distributor unit.
- the spray arms are set in rotation hydraulically by the flowing rinsing liquid.
- DE 101 63 181 A1 describes a distributor or reversing device for a dishwasher, wherein the two outputs of the reversing device can be opened or closed by means of an actuator in such a way that either one of the outputs or a number of outputs or all outputs are opened or closed alternately one after the other and/or continuously.
- the changeover device has a perforated disc or plate arranged centrally on a rotary axis, which is held parallel to the housing end wall of the changeover device.
- the two outlet nozzles or outlets are guided through the housing end wall.
- the inlet is essentially parallel to the plane of the perforated disc.
- a flow through corresponding holes is realized in such a way that the rinsing liquid flows from the outlet to one and/or both discharge connections.
- the perforated disc is driven in particular by an electric motor, with a transmission unit such as a gear train or the like being provided.
- a disadvantage of such distributors, however, is the comparatively high flow losses.
- a distributor or reversing device for a dishwasher is known from DE 10 2004 040 423 A1 , whereby two or three outlets of the distributor can be controlled or opened and closed by means of a three-dimensionally shaped rotating element rotating about an axis of rotation.
- the rotating element is also driven by an electric motor.
- a disadvantage of the previous distributors is the electric or electromotive drive for the change of the flow path. On the one hand, corresponding electrical energy must be provided and consumed, and on the other hand, a certain noise level is generated, which increasingly conflicts with the increasing demands for comfort.
- a fluid distribution unit comprises at least one fluid inlet for the inflow of a fluid as well as at least one first and one second fluid outlet for the outflow of the fluid, which at least partially improves the prior art, in particular is more energy-saving and/or cost-efficient compared to the prior art, as well as preferably realizes a noise reduction, which improves the comfort for the user.
- a household machine is characterized in that the adjustment unit comprises at least one reciprocating piston unit with a reciprocating piston adjustable in a cylinder unit.
- the cylinder unit can have any cross-section, but preferably round or elliptical.
- a working pressure of a working fluid can be used to pressurize the reciprocating piston unit and/or the adjustable reciprocating piston.
- a working pressure of a working fluid esp. a working water
- a changing or a variable fluid/water pressure of the fluid and/or a machine/water port of the household machine is used to implement pressurization of the reciprocating piston unit and/or the adjustable reciprocating piston according to the invention.
- At least one pressure control valve and/or inlet valve or variable flow feed means or the like is advantageously provided.
- This advantageous valve can be formed for changing the pressure of the fluid or water.
- this fluid or water can flow into the machine with a variable or changed pressure, for example with the so-called line or tap pressure, and/or flow within the machine in order to get the distribution according to the invention.
- the valve is designed as a bistable valve or, for example, 3/2-way valve with pressure changeability.
- At least one pressure pump unit is provided for pressurizing the fluid and/or the fluid inlet and/or the reciprocating piston.
- a certain dependence of the line or tap pressure of the aforementioned variant of the invention can be reduced or eliminated.
- a more precise and/or unambiguous and/or comparatively large pressure change and thus defined change of the fluid distribution according to the invention can be implemented. This increases the operational safety.
- the pressure pump unit is designed as a water pump for the household machine.
- an advantageous double/multiple use of the water pump or circulating pump, sump pump or the like already existing for other purposes or functionalities can be implemented, but not only to reduce the costs for manufacturing the machine, but also for operating the machine.
- this dual or multiple use also eliminates further noise and allows existing control and/or supply components of the pump to be used, which is of particular advantage.
- a piston rod of the reciprocating piston and/or the reciprocating piston unit is formed as an adjusting element of the distributor element, wherein the reciprocating piston is arranged at a first end portion of the piston rod.
- the distributor element is designed as a valve with a valve seat and/or the adjustment element is designed as a valve rod of the valve.
- the design complexity is reduced.
- valve seat of the valve is arranged at a second end portion of the piston rod and/or the valve rod of the valve, wherein the first and second end portions are arranged at opposite ends of the piston rod, wherein the first end portion of the piston rod is formed as a first end portion of the valve rod of the valve.
- the fluid distribution unit comprises at least one bypass line for bypassing the distribution element and/or for direct conduction of the fluid from the fluid inlet and/or to the first or second fluid outlet.
- the bypass line is arranged between the cylinder unit and the valve.
- At least one spring element is provided for controlling and/or resetting the reciprocating piston.
- a spring element for example a spring element with a piston-moulded geometry or preferably a spiral spring and/or metal spring, can be advantageously adjusted to the force conditions and/or space conditions, which increases the operational safety and improves the integrity as well as the controllability or control of the distribution or switching of the distributor unit.
- At least one piston guide element is provided for guiding the reciprocating piston.
- the piston guide element is designed as a valve seat and/or as a guide element arranged on the side opposite the valve seat.
- an advantageous double/multiple use valve seat can be implemented. This not only reduces the costs for manufacturing, but also for operating the machine.
- a hydraulic bypass valve is designed as a distributor unit, which is actuated by the change in water pressure or the correspondingly resulting from a changed flow rate of the fluid, in particular of the water, at the inlet.
- the pressure generated in an advantageous manner on a spring-loaded loose piston is below an advantageous threshold or limit parameter of the distributor unit or bypass activation position, which excludes the valve or advantageous piston silicone seal from bypass operation.
- the fluid or water flows completely through the second outlet port or so-called nominal outlet port.
- the head pressure generated on the spring-loaded loose piston exceeds the advantageous threshold or limit parameter of the manifold unit or its spring force, resulting in the second outlet port or nominal outlet being closed by the rubber/seal of the piston and opening the piston/seal in the end geometry.
- the fluid/water flows completely through the bypass or a first outlet port.
- the outlet of the bypass in principle, it is possible to integrate the outlet of the bypass as a nominal outlet. It can also be a separate part so that, for example, the bypass seal is used as a fluid/water outlet valve.
- an NRV should be used in the bypass design, i.e., gravity and pressure silicone plug.
- the regeneration circuit could be separated from the nominal circuit without the need for additional valves. Hereby, higher cost efficiency of the system is achieved.
- the spring-loaded piston advantageously converts the mechanical or potential energy of the fluid/water into a linear position change or adjustment.
- a threshold value derived from the geometry is reached, the first outlet port is closed and the second outlet port is opened or becomes a water path.
- FIG 1 three different application cases of a distributor unit 1 of a household machine according to the invention are shown schematically.
- dishwashers cf. Figure 1 a) and b)
- washing machines e.g., washing machines, softeners, coffee machines, ice crushers separately or integrated in a refrigerator/freezer, or the like are possible household machines.
- Dishwashers usually have two separate rotating arms 2 or spray arms 2. Their water or rinse water is distributed or fed to the spray arms 2 by means of the distributor unit 1.
- the distributor unit 1 serves here as a diverter valve which is actuated hydraulically (cf. Figure 1 b) ).
- the pressure of the water for the spray arms 2 actuates the distributor unit 1.
- the water is supplied to the lower spray arm 2 at a low pressure and to the upper spray arm 2 at a high pressure.
- the distributor unit 1 of the variant according to Figure 1 b) does not require a separate actuator, in particular an electric drive motor. Rather, the already existing electric pump motor of the circulation pump 3 is used twice. Accordingly, the electric/electronic control of the pump motor is used or can be used twice. This reduces the effort and the costs to a considerable extent.
- a distributor unit 1 according to the invention is used for the distribution of the so-called collection water or sump water for a heat exchanger 4.
- the service water is supplied to the heat exchanger 4 on the one hand and to an outlet 5 on the other hand, depending on the pressurization of the distributor unit 1.
- a so-called waste water or sump pump 6 is used here for pressurization and dual use. It is not shown on the drawings, however, the principle can also be used for not only recirculation in heat pumps, but also in water recycling for a water-reuse container.
- This household machine has a softener 7, the soft water of which can be preheated in an advantageous manner with the above-mentioned heat exchanger.
- a salt container 8 and a so-called regeneration reservoir 9 as well as various valves are provided in a known manner (cf. Figure 1 a) and b) ).
- the variant according to figure 1 b) does not have any heat exchanger 7.
- the third variant according to Figure 1 c) does not have a pressure pump for pressurizing the distributor unit 1, but an inlet valve 10 with variable flow or pressure.
- the water of a machine inlet 12 which has a so-called line pressure, can be influenced in such a way that in the direction of flow downstream of the valve 12 the pressure of the inlet water is variable, so that the distributor unit 1 according to Figure 1 c) can be pressurized with a higher and a lower pressure accordingly.
- This illustrated third variant can also be used or installed in an advantageous manner either in a dishwasher or, for example, in a softener or a coffee machine, etc.
- FIGs 2 and 3 two different distributor units 1 according to the invention are shown in section and in plan view.
- Figures 2 a) and 3 a ) show the so-called non-activated state
- Figures 2 b) and 3 b ) show the so-called activated state.
- the distributor unit 1 comprises a stroke piston 13, which is adjustably mounted within a cylinder 14 along a stroke path or adjustment path.
- a seal 15 or an O-ring 15 is provided for sealing. If water now flows through an inlet 16 into the cylinder 14 or the pressure chamber, the piston 13 is pressurized or subject to dynamic flow forces. In the case of a comparatively low pressure, the piston 13 is not adjusted or insufficiently adjusted (see Figure 2 a) ).
- a spring 18 is also provided in an advantageous manner, which, among other things, applies a counterforce.
- the water flows out of the pressure chamber of the cylinder by means of an outlet 17 of the distributor unit 1 and, without being shown in more detail, via a bypass to an inlet 19 of the distributor unit 1.
- a valve 21 or its valve seat 22 closes an outlet 20 of the distributor unit 1 according to the non-activated position of Figure 2 a) .
- the water flows further out of the distributor unit 1 from a further outlet 23, e.g. to a lower spray arm 2 (without being shown in more detail) .
- the piston 13 At a high or higher pressure, whereby the spring 18 is compressed (cf. Figure 2 b) ), the piston 13 is displaced along the stroke path and advantageously strikes the cylinder base or a stop 24. Through this, a piston rod 25 of the piston 13 is displaced, which at the same time forms the valve rod 25 for the valve seat 22, so that the outlet 20 is opened or activated and water can flow out of the piston cylinder via bypass 17 to inlet 19 and further to outlet 20, for example, to an upper spray arm 2.
- this 2nd variant has a guide 26 or guide element, which is designed here as an extension of the piston rod 25 and is in operative connection with a receiving element 27. This provides an advantageously stable guide for the piston 13 or the piston rod 25.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
- Textile Engineering (AREA)
- Lift Valve (AREA)
Abstract
A household machine, in particular dishwasher, washing machine, beverage dispenser or the like, wherein a fluid distributor unit (1) comprises at least one fluid inlet (16) for the inflow of a fluid and at least one first and one second fluid outlet (20, 23) for the outflow of the fluid and at least one adjustable distributor element (22) for distributing the fluid to the fluid outlets (20, 23), wherein at least one adjusting unit (13, 25) is provided for adjusting the distributor element (22), which at least partially improves the prior art, in particular is more energy-saving and/or more cost-efficient compared to the prior art, and preferably realizes a noise reduction, which improves the comfort for the user. According to the invention, this is achieved in that the adjusting unit (13, 25) has at least one reciprocating piston unit (13, 14, 25) with a reciprocating piston (13) which can be adjusted in a cylinder unit (14).
Description
- The invention relates to a household machine with a fluid distribution unit.
- Dishwashers known from prior art generally have two spraying devices or spraying arms to clean the dishes removing or spraying the dirt away. For this purpose, the dishwasher comprises in particular a circulating pump which conveys the rinsing liquid, for example, from the sump of the interior to the spray arms via the reversing device or distributor unit. The spray arms are set in rotation hydraulically by the flowing rinsing liquid.
-
DE 101 63 181 A1 , for example, describes a distributor or reversing device for a dishwasher, wherein the two outputs of the reversing device can be opened or closed by means of an actuator in such a way that either one of the outputs or a number of outputs or all outputs are opened or closed alternately one after the other and/or continuously. The changeover device has a perforated disc or plate arranged centrally on a rotary axis, which is held parallel to the housing end wall of the changeover device. - The two outlet nozzles or outlets are guided through the housing end wall. The inlet is essentially parallel to the plane of the perforated disc. By continuously rotating the perforated disk, a flow through corresponding holes is realized in such a way that the rinsing liquid flows from the outlet to one and/or both discharge connections. The perforated disc is driven in particular by an electric motor, with a transmission unit such as a gear train or the like being provided. A disadvantage of such distributors, however, is the comparatively high flow losses.
- In addition, a distributor or reversing device for a dishwasher is known from
DE 10 2004 040 423 A1 , whereby two or three outlets of the distributor can be controlled or opened and closed by means of a three-dimensionally shaped rotating element rotating about an axis of rotation. The rotating element is also driven by an electric motor. - A disadvantage of the previous distributors is the electric or electromotive drive for the change of the flow path. On the one hand, corresponding electrical energy must be provided and consumed, and on the other hand, a certain noise level is generated, which increasingly conflicts with the increasing demands for comfort.
- In contrast, it is the object of the invention to propose a household machine, in particular a dishwasher or washing machine, wherein a fluid distribution unit comprises at least one fluid inlet for the inflow of a fluid as well as at least one first and one second fluid outlet for the outflow of the fluid, which at least partially improves the prior art, in particular is more energy-saving and/or cost-efficient compared to the prior art, as well as preferably realizes a noise reduction, which improves the comfort for the user.
- This technical problem is solved, starting from a household machine of the type mentioned at the outset, by the characterizing features of
claim 1. Advantageous embodiments and further embodiments of the invention are implemented using the features of the dependent claims. - Accordingly, a household machine according to the invention is characterized in that the adjustment unit comprises at least one reciprocating piston unit with a reciprocating piston adjustable in a cylinder unit. The cylinder unit can have any cross-section, but preferably round or elliptical.
- With the aid of this technical features, it is achieved that a hydraulic or pneumatic distribution of the fluid, in particular of the service water, can be implemented. Accordingly, no separate electrical drive source is required for the distribution of the fluid, in particular the water. This not only saves electrical energy, but also effectively reduces noise. This improves the environmental balance of the household machine and also increases the comfort for the user.
- In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a working pressure of a working fluid, esp. a working water, can be used to pressurize the reciprocating piston unit and/or the adjustable reciprocating piston. For example, a changing or a variable fluid/water pressure of the fluid and/or a machine/water port of the household machine is used to implement pressurization of the reciprocating piston unit and/or the adjustable reciprocating piston according to the invention.
- Where applicable, at least one pressure control valve and/or inlet valve or variable flow feed means or the like is advantageously provided. This advantageous valve can be formed for changing the pressure of the fluid or water. Here, this fluid or water can flow into the machine with a variable or changed pressure, for example with the so-called line or tap pressure, and/or flow within the machine in order to get the distribution according to the invention. For example, the valve is designed as a bistable valve or, for example, 3/2-way valve with pressure changeability.
- Preferably, at least one pressure pump unit is provided for pressurizing the fluid and/or the fluid inlet and/or the reciprocating piston. Hereby, a certain dependence of the line or tap pressure of the aforementioned variant of the invention can be reduced or eliminated. Thus, a more precise and/or unambiguous and/or comparatively large pressure change and thus defined change of the fluid distribution according to the invention can be implemented. This increases the operational safety.
- Advantageously, the pressure pump unit is designed as a water pump for the household machine. Hereby, an advantageous double/multiple use of the water pump or circulating pump, sump pump or the like already existing for other purposes or functionalities can be implemented, but not only to reduce the costs for manufacturing the machine, but also for operating the machine. In addition, this dual or multiple use also eliminates further noise and allows existing control and/or supply components of the pump to be used, which is of particular advantage.
- Preferably, a piston rod of the reciprocating piston and/or the reciprocating piston unit is formed as an adjusting element of the distributor element, wherein the reciprocating piston is arranged at a first end portion of the piston rod. For example, the distributor element is designed as a valve with a valve seat and/or the adjustment element is designed as a valve rod of the valve. Hereby, the design complexity is reduced.
- In a particular further development of the invention, the valve seat of the valve is arranged at a second end portion of the piston rod and/or the valve rod of the valve, wherein the first and second end portions are arranged at opposite ends of the piston rod, wherein the first end portion of the piston rod is formed as a first end portion of the valve rod of the valve. Hereby, an advantageous dual use of the piston rod as a valve rod is implemented, reducing cost and effort.
- Advantageously, the fluid distribution unit comprises at least one bypass line for bypassing the distribution element and/or for direct conduction of the fluid from the fluid inlet and/or to the first or second fluid outlet. Preferably, the bypass line is arranged between the cylinder unit and the valve. Hereby, an advantageous control or control of the fluid and thus of the distribution can be reached.
- In a preferred embodiment, at least one spring element is provided for controlling and/or resetting the reciprocating piston. A spring element, for example a spring element with a piston-moulded geometry or preferably a spiral spring and/or metal spring, can be advantageously adjusted to the force conditions and/or space conditions, which increases the operational safety and improves the integrity as well as the controllability or control of the distribution or switching of the distributor unit.
- Preferably, at least one piston guide element is provided for guiding the reciprocating piston. This improves the adjustment or operational reliability of the distribution. In addition, the service life is extended. Advantageously, the piston guide element is designed as a valve seat and/or as a guide element arranged on the side opposite the valve seat. Hereby, an advantageous double/multiple use valve seat can be implemented. This not only reduces the costs for manufacturing, but also for operating the machine.
- In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a hydraulic bypass valve is designed as a distributor unit, which is actuated by the change in water pressure or the correspondingly resulting from a changed flow rate of the fluid, in particular of the water, at the inlet.
- Advantageously, when operating at low pressure/flow, the pressure generated in an advantageous manner on a spring-loaded loose piston, is below an advantageous threshold or limit parameter of the distributor unit or bypass activation position, which excludes the valve or advantageous piston silicone seal from bypass operation. The fluid or water flows completely through the second outlet port or so-called nominal outlet port.
- When operating at high pressure/flow, the head pressure generated on the spring-loaded loose piston exceeds the advantageous threshold or limit parameter of the manifold unit or its spring force, resulting in the second outlet port or nominal outlet being closed by the rubber/seal of the piston and opening the piston/seal in the end geometry. The fluid/water flows completely through the bypass or a first outlet port.
- In principle, it is possible to integrate the outlet of the bypass as a nominal outlet. It can also be a separate part so that, for example, the bypass seal is used as a fluid/water outlet valve. In this case, an NRV should be used in the bypass design, i.e., gravity and pressure silicone plug. But in this case, the regeneration circuit could be separated from the nominal circuit without the need for additional valves. Hereby, higher cost efficiency of the system is achieved.
- In general, the spring-loaded piston advantageously converts the mechanical or potential energy of the fluid/water into a linear position change or adjustment. When a threshold value derived from the geometry is reached, the first outlet port is closed and the second outlet port is opened or becomes a water path.
- An embodiment example of the invention is shown in the drawing and is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures.
- In detail shows:
- Figure 1
- schematic hydraulic diagrams of three different applications of a distribution unit in household machines, preferably dishwashers, according to the invention,
- Figure 2
- schematic representations of a first distributor unit according to the invention in the activated and in the non-activated operating state, and
- Figure 3
- schematic representations of a second distributor unit according to the invention in the activated and in the non-activated operating state.
- In
Figure 1 , three different application cases of adistributor unit 1 of a household machine according to the invention are shown schematically. In principle, dishwashers (cf.Figure 1 a) and b)), washing machines, softeners, coffee machines, ice crushers separately or integrated in a refrigerator/freezer, or the like are possible household machines. - Dishwashers usually have two separate
rotating arms 2 orspray arms 2. Their water or rinse water is distributed or fed to thespray arms 2 by means of thedistributor unit 1. Thedistributor unit 1 serves here as a diverter valve which is actuated hydraulically (cf.Figure 1 b) ). - Thus, by means of a
circulation pump 3, the pressure of the water for thespray arms 2 actuates thedistributor unit 1. For example, the water is supplied to thelower spray arm 2 at a low pressure and to theupper spray arm 2 at a high pressure. - Consequently, the
distributor unit 1 of the variant according toFigure 1 b) does not require a separate actuator, in particular an electric drive motor. Rather, the already existing electric pump motor of thecirculation pump 3 is used twice. Accordingly, the electric/electronic control of the pump motor is used or can be used twice. This reduces the effort and the costs to a considerable extent. - According to
Figure 1 a) of a second variant of the invention, adistributor unit 1 according to the invention is used for the distribution of the so-called collection water or sump water for aheat exchanger 4. Here, the service water is supplied to theheat exchanger 4 on the one hand and to an outlet 5 on the other hand, depending on the pressurization of thedistributor unit 1. Similar to the aforementioned variant, however, a so-called waste water orsump pump 6 is used here for pressurization and dual use. It is not shown on the drawings, however, the principle can also be used for not only recirculation in heat pumps, but also in water recycling for a water-reuse container. - This household machine has a
softener 7, the soft water of which can be preheated in an advantageous manner with the above-mentioned heat exchanger. For the softening and regeneration of thesoftener 7, asalt container 8 and a so-calledregeneration reservoir 9 as well as various valves are provided in a known manner (cf.Figure 1 a) and b) ). However, the variant according tofigure 1 b) does not have anyheat exchanger 7. - In contrast to the two aforementioned variants, the third variant according to
Figure 1 c) does not have a pressure pump for pressurizing thedistributor unit 1, but an inlet valve 10 with variable flow or pressure. Thus, the water of amachine inlet 12, which has a so-called line pressure, can be influenced in such a way that in the direction of flow downstream of thevalve 12 the pressure of the inlet water is variable, so that thedistributor unit 1 according toFigure 1 c) can be pressurized with a higher and a lower pressure accordingly. This illustrated third variant can also be used or installed in an advantageous manner either in a dishwasher or, for example, in a softener or a coffee machine, etc. - In
Figures 2 and3 , twodifferent distributor units 1 according to the invention are shown in section and in plan view. Here,Figures 2 a) and3 a ) show the so-called non-activated state andFigures 2 b) and3 b ) show the so-called activated state. - The
distributor unit 1 comprises astroke piston 13, which is adjustably mounted within acylinder 14 along a stroke path or adjustment path. Here, aseal 15 or an O-ring 15 is provided for sealing. If water now flows through aninlet 16 into thecylinder 14 or the pressure chamber, thepiston 13 is pressurized or subject to dynamic flow forces. In the case of a comparatively low pressure, thepiston 13 is not adjusted or insufficiently adjusted (seeFigure 2 a) ). For this purpose, aspring 18 is also provided in an advantageous manner, which, among other things, applies a counterforce. - Thus, the water flows out of the pressure chamber of the cylinder by means of an
outlet 17 of thedistributor unit 1 and, without being shown in more detail, via a bypass to aninlet 19 of thedistributor unit 1. However, avalve 21 or itsvalve seat 22 closes anoutlet 20 of thedistributor unit 1 according to the non-activated position ofFigure 2 a) . Thus, the water flows further out of thedistributor unit 1 from afurther outlet 23, e.g. to a lower spray arm 2 (without being shown in more detail) . - At a high or higher pressure, whereby the
spring 18 is compressed (cf.Figure 2 b) ), thepiston 13 is displaced along the stroke path and advantageously strikes the cylinder base or astop 24. Through this, apiston rod 25 of thepiston 13 is displaced, which at the same time forms thevalve rod 25 for thevalve seat 22, so that theoutlet 20 is opened or activated and water can flow out of the piston cylinder viabypass 17 toinlet 19 and further tooutlet 20, for example, to anupper spray arm 2. - In a second variant of the
distributor unit 1 according toFigure 3 , functionally similar components are labeled with the same reference signs ofFigure 2 . This variant has a particularly compact and space-saving design, which is of particular advantage in household machines. - In addition, this 2nd variant has a
guide 26 or guide element, which is designed here as an extension of thepiston rod 25 and is in operative connection with a receivingelement 27. This provides an advantageously stable guide for thepiston 13 or thepiston rod 25.
Claims (11)
- Household machine, in particular dishwasher, washing machine, beverage dispenser or the like, wherein a fluid distributor unit (1) comprises at least one fluid inlet (16) for the inflow of a fluid and at least one first and one second fluid outlet (20, 23) for the outflow of the fluid and at least one adjustable distributor element (22) for distributing the fluid to the fluid outlets (20, 23), wherein at least one adjusting unit (13, 25) is provided for adjusting the distributor element (22), characterized in that the adjusting unit (13, 25) has at least one reciprocating piston unit (13, 14, 25) with a reciprocating piston (13) which can be adjusted in a cylinder unit (14).
- Household machine according to claim 1, characterized in that a piston rod (25)of the reciprocating piston (13) and/or of the reciprocating piston unit is designed as an adjusting element (25) of the distributor element (22), the reciprocating piston (13) being arranged at a first end section of the piston rod (25).
- Household machine according to at least one of the aforementioned claims, characterized in that the distributor element (22) is designed as a valve (22) with a valve seat and/or the adjusting element (25) is designed as a valve rod (25) of the valve.
- Household machine according to at least one of the aforementioned claims, characterized in that the valve seat of the valve (22) is arranged at a second end portion of the piston rod (25) and/or the valve rod (25) of the valve (22), the first and second end portions being arranged at opposite ends of the piston rod (25), the first end portion of the piston rod being formed as a first end portion of the valve rod (25) of the valve (22) .
- Household machine according to at least one of the aforementioned claims, characterized in that the fluid distributor unit (1) comprises at least one bypass line for bypassing the distributor element (22) and/or for direct conduction of the fluid from the fluid inlet (16) and/or to the first or second fluid outlet (20, 23).
- Household machine according to at least one of the aforementioned claims, characterized in that the bypass line is arranged partially or fully between the cylinder unit (14) and the valve (22).
- Household machine according to one of the aforementioned claims, characterized in that at least one spring element (18) is provided for controlling and/or resetting the reciprocating piston (13).
- Household machine according to at least one of the aforementioned claims, characterized in that at least one piston guide element (26) is provided for guiding the reciprocating piston (13).
- Household machine according to at least one of the aforementioned claims, characterized in that the piston guide element (26) is designed as a valve seat (22) and/or as a guide element (26) arranged on the side opposite the valve seat (22).
- Household machine according to at least one of the aforementioned claims, characterized in that at least one pressure pump unit (3, 6) is provided for pressurizing the fluid and/or the fluid inlet (16) and/or the reciprocating piston (13).
- Household machine according to at least one of the aforementioned claims, characterized in that the pressure pump unit (3, 6) is designed as a water pump (3, 6) of the household machine.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP22186560.3A EP4309561A1 (en) | 2022-07-22 | 2022-07-22 | Household machine with a fluid distributor unit |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP22186560.3A EP4309561A1 (en) | 2022-07-22 | 2022-07-22 | Household machine with a fluid distributor unit |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP4309561A1 true EP4309561A1 (en) | 2024-01-24 |
Family
ID=82701968
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP22186560.3A Pending EP4309561A1 (en) | 2022-07-22 | 2022-07-22 | Household machine with a fluid distributor unit |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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EP (1) | EP4309561A1 (en) |
Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB661124A (en) * | 1947-12-20 | 1951-11-14 | Electrolux Ab | Improvements in or relating to dishwashing machines |
DE2542393A1 (en) * | 1974-09-23 | 1976-04-01 | Martin Usines Fonderie Arthur | WATER DISTRIBUTION DEVICE FOR AUTOMATIC WASHING OR DISHWASHING MACHINES |
EP0547011A1 (en) * | 1991-12-11 | 1993-06-16 | Colged S.R.L. | A washing method for a dishwashing machine of industrial type |
DE10163181A1 (en) | 2001-12-21 | 2003-07-10 | Bsh Bosch Siemens Hausgeraete | Reversing device, in particular for a dishwasher |
DE102004040423A1 (en) | 2004-08-19 | 2006-02-23 | Aweco Appliance Systems Gmbh & Co. Kg | Household machine e.g. dishwasher has fluid dispensing device, distribution element with three dimensional guiding surfaces, fluid inlet, fluid discharge, whereby distribution element is rotatable |
-
2022
- 2022-07-22 EP EP22186560.3A patent/EP4309561A1/en active Pending
Patent Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB661124A (en) * | 1947-12-20 | 1951-11-14 | Electrolux Ab | Improvements in or relating to dishwashing machines |
DE2542393A1 (en) * | 1974-09-23 | 1976-04-01 | Martin Usines Fonderie Arthur | WATER DISTRIBUTION DEVICE FOR AUTOMATIC WASHING OR DISHWASHING MACHINES |
EP0547011A1 (en) * | 1991-12-11 | 1993-06-16 | Colged S.R.L. | A washing method for a dishwashing machine of industrial type |
DE10163181A1 (en) | 2001-12-21 | 2003-07-10 | Bsh Bosch Siemens Hausgeraete | Reversing device, in particular for a dishwasher |
DE102004040423A1 (en) | 2004-08-19 | 2006-02-23 | Aweco Appliance Systems Gmbh & Co. Kg | Household machine e.g. dishwasher has fluid dispensing device, distribution element with three dimensional guiding surfaces, fluid inlet, fluid discharge, whereby distribution element is rotatable |
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