GB2175492A - Non-electric dishwasher - Google Patents

Abstract

A water powered dishwasher a housing 14, a rack 15 rotatably mounted within the housing 14, the rack being arranged to support articles to be washed, and, a water jet sub-assembly 16 for directing jets of water in the direction of the rack 15 to impart rotational movement thereto. The jet sub-assembly 16 comprises a collimated jet 7 of or emitting a collimated stream of water in the direction of the lower periphery of the rack 15 for initiating and assisting in sustaining the rotation thereof and spray tubes 40, 42, 44 for spraying the articles and rotation of the rack. The flow of water is regulated by a timer valve for controlling the period of time water flows to the jet sub-assembly and a diverter arrangement for selectively dividing the flow of water between the collimated jet in a forward or reverse driving direction relative to the rack. <IMAGE>

Description

SPECIFICATION Non-electric dishwasher Background of the Invention Field ofthe Invention~ The present invention relates generallyto dishwashers and more particularly to a non-electric, self-contained, diswasher unit adapted to be removably interconnected with either a high pressure, medium pressure or low pressure domestic water supply.

Discussion ofthe Prior Art Portable dishwashers operable solely by water pressure are not new. Several such units have been manufactured and sold in recent years. A common drawback of such units, however, has been their inabilityto rapidly and effectivelyclean dishes and cookware and their inability to operate satisfactorily when connected to domesticwatersupplies.

Many of the prior art units are cheaply constructed and have been sold more as a novelty item than as a bona fide, high performance dishwashing device.

Generally, the washing action in such units is attempted by one or more rapidly rotating emitters located beneath or along side a rack holding the dishes. These emitters, which operate in much the same manner as lawn sprinklers, have proven ineffective in the remov al ofmosttroublesome types offood residue on the dishes. Othertypes of emitters have from time to time been tried, butforthe most part have also proven to be ineffective.

Included among the most effective dishwasher units ever developed are the units discussed in U.S.

Pat. Nos. 4,368,747 and 4,444,213. These units, for the first time, overcome the quality and performance drawbacks inherent in their predecessor prior art devices. Like the apparatus of these earlier designs, the present invention is not a toy, or a novelty item, but rather is a carefully engineered, high performance device adapted to rapidly and efficiently remove even the most difficu It food residue from dishes and cookware. The improved water jet means ofthe unit of the present invention controllably directs a multiplic ityofhighvelocitywaterjetsatthearticlesto be washed while they are supported within the unit on a unique hodling rack which is precisely rotated at an optimum rate of speed without regard to the pressure of the domestic water supply.These water jets can be directed to impinge upon all the surfaces of the dishes supported within the rotating rack and create a unique scrubbing type of action which loosens and dislodges even the most difficult of residues. A dosing chamber of improved design precisely mixes an emulsifier, such as liquid soap, with the water upstream of the water jets thereby enhancing the cleaning efficiency of the device.

An important aspect of the present invention is the improvedwaterjetmeanswhichenablestheunitto work at peak efficiency even when attached to domestic water systems having very low pressures of on the order of 5 to 10 psi. The water jet means comprises an adjustablefirstcollimatedjet means which can be used in low water pressure situations to initiate and assist in sustaining the rotation ofthe rotatable rack which supports the dirty dishes. The water jet means also includes ajustable second spray jet means which accomplishes the efficient scrubbing and cleansing action and also functions to sustain the rotation of the rack.The control means which are operably associated with the jet means permit the collimated jet means to be use atfull pressure in low water pressure conditions, to be discontinued under normal water pressure conditions orto be used in high water pressure conditions to effect a braking action to the rotating rack. Accordingly, the unique control means ofthe invention permits the rack to always be rotated at an optimum rate of speed for maximum cleaning efficiency by the spray jet means regardless of the water pressure of the domestic water source to which the apparatus is connected.

The spray jet means ofthe device is readily adjustable with respect to the rack so that a multiplicity of fine, very high velocity water jets bombard the dishes from all angles, from above, from below and from the sides. The unique hole pattern formed in the spray jet means permits optimum controlled rotation of the supporting rackwhileatthesametime accomplishing maximum cleaning and scrubbing of the dishes.

Another important aspect of the present invention resides in the provision of a novel timer valve apparatus embodied in the dishwasher unit for automatically and adjustable controlling the period of time during which the domesticwaterwill flow into the unit.

Summary of the Invention It is an object ofthe present invention to provide an improved non-electricfree standing, self-contained rotatable dishwasherforwashing dishes, cookware and the like which is operated solely by domestic water pressure either at high, medium or low pressure with equal effectiveness.

It is another object of the invention to provide a dishwasher of the aforementioned character in which, in operation, a multiplicity ofveryfine high velocity jets of water are directed at the articles to be washed from a multiplicity of directions, said jets being of such force as to quickly and efficiently dislodge and thoroughly clean even the most stubborn of food residues and greases.

It is another object of the invention to provide a dishwasher of the character described in which means are provided for uniformly and controllably mixing a soap or detergent with the high velocity water jets.

Another object of the invention is to provide a dishwasher as described in the previous paragraph in which, under low water pressure conditions, a first collimated water jet is directed at the rotatable rack to initiate and assist in sustaining rotation ofthe rack.

Under medium water pressure conditions, on the other hand, the collimated water jet can be closed and the full force of the water directed toward a jet spray The drawings originally filed were informal and the print here reproduced is taken from a later filed formal copy.

system which sustains the rotation ofthe rack. Under high water pressure conditions the novel control mechanism ofthe invention uniquely perm its the first jet to be used to brake the speed of rotation ofthe rack.

The novel design ofthe control mechanism of the invention thusly permits the easy and rapid regulation ofthe collimated jet means from a forward drive mode to an off mode to a braking mode.

Afurtherobjectofthe invention isto provide an improved dishwasherofthe class described which is compact, lightweight, highly attractive and extremely simple to use and maintain.

Another object ofthe invention is to provide a dishwasher of the aforementioned characterwhich can be readily interconnected to domestic water outlets without the use ofspecial tools and which includes drain means for conveniently draining the unit into an existing kitchen or bathroom sink.

Still anotherobjectofthe invention isto provide an improved dishwasher of the class described in which there is provided a novel timer valve means which can be setfrom the exterior of the unit to precisely control thetime period during which waterwillflowto the unit during the washing cycle and to automatically and positively shut off the water supply at the completion ofthewashing cycle.

These and otherobjects of the invention are realized by an improved rotatable dishwasher adapted to be connected to a domestic water supply line comprising a housing, a rack rotatably mounted within the housing, the rack being adapted to support articles to bewashed, meansfordirecting ajetofwaterin the direction of said rack to impart rotational movement thereto, the jet means comprising acollimatedjetfor emitting a collimated stream of water in the direction ofthe lower peripheral portion of the rack when the apparatus is used with domesticwatersupplies having very high or very low pressures and a spray jet means for emitting a multiplicity of water spray jets in the direction ofthe rack during the washing cycle.A novel timer means controls the time period during which water will flow toward the jet means.

Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is an exploded generally perspective view ofthe outer housing and article supporting racksofthe apparatus of the invention.

Figure 2 is an exploded generally perspective view of the base, jet means and control means of the apparatus astheyappearwith the supporting rack and outer housings removed.

Figure 3 is a generally perspective view ofthe assembled diswasher.

Figure 4 is a fragmentary plan view of portions of a portion of the control means ofthe invention showing the configuration of the timer valve for controlling the flow of water received from the domestic water line.

Figure 5 is a fragmentarycross-sectional view taken along lines 5-5 of Figure 4 showing the internal construction ofthetimervalve.

Figure 6 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the timer valve taken along lines 6-6 of Figure 5 showing the valve in a closed position blocking the flow of watertoward the water jet means.

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the timer valve similarto Figure 6 but showing the valve in an open position.

Figure 8 is a fragmentary side elevational crosssectional view ofthe apparatus showing the construction of the collimated jet means and other portions of the control means and the spray jet means.

Figure 9 is an enlarged fragmentary cross-sectional view ofthe diverter means portion ofthe control means ofthe invention for selectively dividing the flow ofwaterfrom the timer valve between the collimated jet means and the spray jet means.

Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 10-l0ofFigure9furtherillustrating the construction of the diverter means.

Figure 11 isagreatlyenlargedfragmentaryview, partly in cross-section, of an alternate form of sprayjet means ofthe invention.

Description of One Form of the Invention Referring now to the drawings and particularly to Figures 1,2 and 3, the dishwasher of the present invention, generally designated in Figure 3 by the numeral 12,includesa housing 14,a rackassemblage 15 mounted for rotation within housing 14, jet means 16 for directing a jet of water at rack assemblage 15 to impart rotational movement thereto, and dosing means 18 is adapted to cooperate with the jet means for dosing with an emulsifierwaterflowing through the jet means.

As shown in Figure 1,thehousing 1 4 of the unit, which can suitably be constructed ofthin plastic or sheet metal, comprises a first stationary part 14a and a rotatable part 14b which comprises the closure means of the apparatus. While the housing shown in the drawings is generally cylindrical in shape, it could be constructed in other configurations to meet particular design requirements.

Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the housing 14 is received in concentric, circulartracks 20a and 20b formed in the upper portion 22a of a generally rectangular base 22. The fixed portion 1 4a of the housing is sealably received in track 20b while the movable portion 14b of the housing is received for sliding movement within track 20a. To assist the smooth rotational movement of the housing 14b relative to the housing 14a, a top closure member 17 is provided with spherical bearing 1 7a which is rotatably received within a recess 1 7b formed in the top surface of housing 14a.

As best seen in Figure 2, track 20b definestheouter periphery of a floor 24which slopes radially inwardly toward a frustoconicallyshaped, upwardly extending hub 26. Extending upwardly from hub 26 is a frustoconically shaped column 28 having at its upper end a recess 30 adapted to closely receive a ball bearing 32. The upper portion 22a of the base is affixed to a lower portion 22b to form an internal cavity, the purpose of which will be presently discussed.

Turning once again to Figure 1, rack assemblage 15 includes a rack having upper and lower circularly shaped memers 15a and 15b and apertured hub portion 1 5e and 15d. Radiating outwardly from these hub portions are a plurality of spokes 1 sue and 1Sf. The upperand lower members 15a and 15b are maintained in a vertically spaced apart location by four supports 15g. Receivable with the apertures of hub portions 1 sic and 15d are inserts 15h and 15i. The rack is preferably constructed of coated steel wire and is specially configured to carry and strategically position various items of crockery, cutlery, dishes and cook ware with the housing and in a specific relationship with respect to the spray jet means.

As shown in Figure 3, rack assemblage 15 is rotatably supported by column 28 with insert 15i being disposed in close proximity with the lower portion of the column and with insert 15h resting upon and being rotatably supported by the ball bearing 32. With this arrangement the rack assemblage is freely rotatable with housing 14 about the central column 28.

Also forming a part of the rack assemblage 15 is a uniquely configured silverware holder 34 comprising upper and lower members 34a and 34b. These members, which are held in a vertically spaced apart position by means of adjacent pairs of the supports 15g, are provided with silverware support means for positioning the silverware to be washed at a slight angle with respect to the vertical axis ofthe unit. More specifically, the upper member 34a is provided with a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart hook-like protrusions 34cwhich define openings therebetween adapted to receive the handle portion ofthe silverware. Similarly lower member 34b is provided with a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart apertures 34d, or recesses, adapted to supportthe opposite end ofthe silverware.Apertures 34c and 34d are angularly offset so that the silverware will be maintained on an angular, orsloping, orientation during the washing operation which has been found to be optimum foran efficient scrubbing action by the water spray jets.

In the embodiment ofthe invention shown in the drawings, the jet means 16 comprises a collimated jet means for directing a collimated stream of water at the lower peripheral portions of the rack assemblage and a spray jet means for providing the washing action and for continuously urging controlled rotation of the rack assemblage. To control the rotation ofthe rack, control means is provided. This control means is cooperatively associated with the spray jet means and the collimated jet means to control the flow of the domestic water thereto.

Turning to Figures 2,4,5 and 6, the control means of the invention can be seen to comprise timer valve means 36 for regulating the flow of water from the domestic water system, of water source, to the jet means and diverter means 38 for selectively dividing the flow of water between the collimated jet means and the spray jet means.

As best seen by referring to Figures 2 and 3, in the present embodiment of the invention, the second spray jet means is provided in the form of a specially configured hollow tubing comprising a firstsubstantially horizontal extending conduit leg portion 40 extending beneath rack assemblage 15, a substantially vertically extending conduit leg portion 42 disposed proximate the periphery of rack 15 (Figure 3) and a substantially horizontally extending portion 44 disposed above rack 15. The inboard end of portions 40 and 44a are closed by plug assemblages 47.

The tubing ofthesprayjetmeansmaybecon- structed from copper, aluminum, plastic or other suitable durable material which can be bent into the configuration shown in Figures 2 and 3. In Figure 2 it can be seen that a multiplicity of small holes 50 are drilled in a specific pattern in each ofthe leg portions as well as in the vertically extending portion ofthe tubing. The pattern of holes 50 is carefully engineered to create a three dimensional water spray pattern within housing 14 which sustains rotation of rack 15 and produces a unique scrubbing type of cleansing action on the dishes and cookware supported in rack assemblage 1 5.The velocity of these jets coupled with thethreedimensional pattern thereof creates a highly novel and unique scrubbing action upon the articles supported within rack assemblage 15.

The spray jet means is in communication with the domestic water supply via the dosing means 1 8 through conduit 52 one end of which is connected to a connector54whichformsa partofthesprayjet means (Figure 2). The dosing means is, in turn, connected to the timervalve means 36 by conduit 52a. Connector 54 has a shank portion 52a and a flange portion 54b.

Shank 54a extends through floor 24for connection with conduit 52 and flange 54b is provided with a groove adapted to receive a resilient O-ring 56 which is disposed in sealing engagement with the lower surface of a "T" adapter 58. Adapter 58 is affixed to floor24 by threaded connectors 60.

As seen in Figure 2, adapter58 has an inlet passageway 62 in communication with connector 54, a first outlet 64 adapted to communicate with leg portion 46 via the collimated jet means and a second outlet 66 adapted to rotatably receive the lower end of leg portion 42 of the spray tube. Outlet 66 is externally threaded to accommodate a closure member68 having a throat portion 68a within which the lower end of the leg portion 42 of the spraytube is closely received. With this arrangement the spray tube can be rotated angularly with respect to the rack assemblage about its vertically extending axis by simply loosening closure member 68. In the present embodiment of the invention closure member 68 and adaptor 58 comprises the primary components ofthe adjustment means for adjusting the orientation of the spray jet means.

While the components are shown as threadably interconnected, other connections such as slipfit or bayonet-type connections can be used. By adjusting the spray tube in the mannerdescribed,the angle at which jets of water eminating from the spray tube strike the dishes emplaced upon the rack assemblage can be precisely adjusted. This enables precise control over the speed of rotation of the rack assemblage during the washing cycle and insures an optimum scrubbing action by the jets of water striking the dishes at the most effective angle.

Referring nowto Figure 8 it is to be noted that the inboard end of leg portion 40 is supported by frustoconical portion 26a and in this way is at all times maintained in a spaced relationship with the sloping floor 24 and out of contact with the dishwater as it drainstowardthecenteroftheunit.

As best understood by referring to Figures 3 and 8, the collimated jet means, generally designated by the numeral 70, is disposed proximate the interconnection point of the horizontal spray tube 40 and the vertical spray tube 42. This importantmeans functions to emit a collimated stream of water in the direction of depending vanes 72, which vanes depend from the outer periphery of rack member 1 Sb. In the present embodiment of the invention the collimated jet means comprises a length of conduit 74 disposed intermediate the junction of the lower horizontal portion and the vertically extending portion of the spray tubes 40 and 42 of the spray jet means.Conduit 74 is provided with strategically located circumferentiallyspaced first and second apertures 76 and 78 (Figures 9 and 10), the purpose of which will presently be described.

An extremely important aspect of the present invention resides in the unique and improved control means forcontrolling the flow ofwater between the collimated jet means and the jet spray means. As previously mentioned, this control means comprises a timer valve means and a diverter means. Considering the diverter means first, this means comprises a rotatable control member 80 (Figures 8,9 and 10) having a radially extending aperture 82 formed therein.Control member 80 is rotatably carried by conduit 74 and is angularly movable relative to conduit 74 from a first position as shown in Figure 9 wherein aperture 82 is aligned with aperture 76 formed in length of conduit 74 to a second position wherein the walls of the control member are blocking aperture 76 (see the intermediate phantom lines in Figure 9). When the control member is in the first position a collimated jet of water under pressure is directed at vanes 72 in a mannerto urge forward rotation ofthe rack assemblage 15 (Figure 3). When the control member is rotated to said second position, flow ofwaterthroughthe collimatedjet means will be blocked and all of the water coming from the domestic watersource will flow through the spray jet means.

Another unique aspect of the present invention resides in the fact that the control member80 can be moved to a third position wherein aperture 82 is aligned with aperture 78formed in tube portion 74 (see phantom lines at the right of Figure 9). In this third position, since apertures 76 and 78 are circumferentially spaced by approximately 90 degrees, the collimated jet means is directed in a rearwardly direction and thereby functions to brake the forward rotation of the rack assemblage.

The novel design of the diverter means uniquely permits accommodation of high, low and medium domestic watersource pressures. When the domestic water pressure is low, the diverter is set at the first position wherein the collimated jet means is assisting the spray jet means in overcoming starting inertia and in maintaining uniform rotation ofthe rackassemb lageatanoptimum rate of speed. l n cases wh erethe domestic water pressure is nominal, the diverter is set atthe second position blocking flow of water to the collimated jet means. In this situation the rack assemblage is rotated atan optimum speed solely by the spray jet means.In instances of high domestic water pressure, the control member ofthe diverter means can be set at the third position wherein the collimated jet is directed at the vanes in a rearward direction tending to brake, or slow, rotation of the rack assemblage.

As will be appreciated from an analysis of Figure 9, fine adjustments of the collimated jet means can be made by rotating the control member80 so that apertures76 and 78 are partially covered ratherthan indexed in the mannershown in Figure 9. In this way, domestic water pressures in the low to medium and in the medium to high range can also uniquely be accommodated.

Turning particularly to Figure 8, a member 80 can be seen to have an enlarged diameter portion 80a and a skirt portion 80b. Skirt portion 80b is closely received over, and rotatably movable relative to, an outwardly extending tubular portion 83 which is integrally formed with adapter 58 and defines first outlet 64.

Both skirt portion 80b and tubular portion 83 are grooved to receive a split ring member 86 which rotatably interconnects the parts. Portion 80a and skirt portion 80b are also provided with circumferentially extending grooves adapted to receive elastomeric O-rings 88 which prevent water leakage between the rotatably interconnected members. As indicated in Figure 9, portion 80a of control member 80 is knurled or grooved at 90 to facilitate rotation of the member among the first, second and third positions.

Turning now to Figures4through 6,thetimervalve means portion ofthe control means is there illustrated. This valve means functions to regulate the flow ofwaterfromthedomesticsourceofwaterunder pressure to the jet means and comprises a housing 90 provided with a water inlet 92 and a water outlet 94.

Housing 90 is generally L-shaped in plan, having an internal chamber96(Figure5).Afirstleg 98 of the housing is adapted to be interconnected with an inlet conduit 100 while an externallythreaded second leg 102 is adapted to be interconnected with an outlet conduit 104 (Figure 6). The conduits are connected to the housing by means of slip fit, quick couplings 105 which are commercially available andform no part of the present invention. A first internal valve seat 106 is formed within chamber 96 intermediate the flow path of the water flowing between the inlet and the water outlet.

Reciprocally movable within chamber 96 is a valve member 108 which is normally disposed in a first closed position wherein a seat engaging portion thereof is in sealable engagement with the valve seat 106 in the mannershown in Figures 5 and 6. In this closed position valve member 108 functions to block the flow of water between the water inlet and the water outlet. However, as illustrated in Figure 7, valve member 108 is movable from the first closed position into a second open position wherein the seat engaging portion ofthe member is spaced apartfrom the valve seat 106.

Valve member 108 is generally cylindrical in shape, having an internal fluid passageway 110 formed within the elongated body portion 112 of the valve member. Interconnecting body portion 112 with a stem portion 1 is a tapered wall portion 116 having formed therein a plurality of circumferentially spaced apertures 118. As indicated in Figures 5 and 6, valve member 108 engages valve seat 106 at a location proximate the intersection of the tapered wall portion 116 and the body portion 112. To assist in forming a fluidtightseal,thevalvememberll2isprovidedwith a circumferentially extending groove adapted to carry an elastomeric O-ring 120 which is adapted to sealably engage valve seat 106 when the valve is in a closed position.

Disposed within the rearward, or left, portion of chamber96 is an annular shaped member 121, the forward inwardly tapering wall portion of which forms a second valve seat 122. Valve member 108 is also provided with a second annular groove adapted to receive a second elastomeric O-ring 124 which, when the valve is in a closed position, is adapted to sealably engage second valve seat 122. This second sealing arrangement functions to preclude flow ofwaterfrom the inlet 100 rearwardlyortotheleftofthe housing as viewed in Figures 5 and 6.

When the valve is in an open position as shown in Figure7,waterwillflowintothevalvethroughthe inlet 92, past seat 106, through apertures 118 in the valve member and rearwardly in the direction of the arrows 109 toward outlet 94.

Extending radiallyoutwardlyfrom body portion 112 proximate the left end thereof are spring retainer means 126 which define shoulders 128 adapted to engage biasing means, provided here intheform of a coil spring 130, which surrounds the rear, or left hand, extremity of body 112 of valve member 108.

Threadably interconnected with housing 90 is an adapter member 134which includes an internally threaded enlarged diameter portion 134a and a smaller diameter cylindrical portion 134b within which conduit 104 is removably received. Adapter 134 functionstohold member 120 in position within chamber 96 and also is provided with a circumferential, axially extending groove 137 which receives the rear,orleft, portion of spring 130. With the biasing means or coil spring 130 positioned within the valve in the manner illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, the forward extremity of the spring is in engagement with shoulderl28whilethe rearextremityisin engage- mentwiththeendwall ofgroove 135.With this construction, the biasing means, or spring 130, functions to yieldably resist movement ofthe valve memberfrom the first closed position shown in Figures 5 and Sto the second open position shown in Figure 7. A rubber gasket 131 is disposed between housing 190 and adapter 34 to prevent leakage of water rearwardly of the housing.

Also forming a part of the valve means of the present invention are operating means for moving the valve memberfrom the first closed position to the second open position and for maintaining the valve member in the second position for predetermined periods oftime. In the present embodiment of the invention the operating means comprise cam means and acutating means which are carried by a second housing 140, which housing is connected to valve housing 90 by means of connectors 141 (Figures 5 and 7). The cam means is adapted to interact with stem portion 114 of the valve.memberto move the valve member from the first closed position to the open second position upon movement ofthe cam means in a first direction.Operably associated with the cam means are actuating means which function to move the cam means a predetermined distance in a first arcuate direction, from a first starting point to a second end point, and then for controllably moving the cam means in an opposite direction from the second end point to the first starting point in a predetermined elapsed time. With this construction, the actuating means initially functions to rotate the cam means in a first direction,which in turn moves the valve member from the first closed position to the second open position against the urging ofthe biasing meansorspring 130.The actuating meansthen rotates the valve member in the opposite direction from the second position to the first, or starting, position in a predetermined elapsed time permitting the valve memberto automatically return to the first closed position due to the urging of spring 130.

In the present embodiment of the invention, the actuating means comprises a shaft 142 which is rotatably carried within housing 140, a motor means 144 connected to one end ofthe shaft and a handle means 146 connected to the opposite end of the shaft.

As best seen in Figure 5, the housing 140 comprises an enlarged diameter portion 140a defining a chamber 146 and an upper cylindrically shaped portion 140b.

Contained within chamber 146 is the motor means which can be any one of a number of types of commercially available mechanical motors capable of driving shaft 142 at a predetermined rate of rotation.

The motor means is held within chamber 146 by an apertured closure base plate 145. In the drawings (Figure 5), the motor means is shown as comprising a spiral spring 148formed of an elongated strip of spring steel which has been wound into the shape of a loose spiral. Spring 148 is provided proximate its inner end with a tab which is adapted to be interconnected with shaft 1 42 through insertion ofthetab into a slot 150 formed in a shaft 142 which extends upwardly from chamber 142 through a suitable bushing 152, carried by housing 140. The outerextremityofthe spiral spring is connected to the housing 140 so that rotation ofshaft 142 in afirstdirection will tend to wind ortighten spiral spring 148 to a predetermined tension.Once the spring is wound and the handle means is released the spring will then tend to unwind, causing shaft 142 to rotate in a second, opposite direction. Spring motors of this character are well known in the prior art and can be calibrated so that the unwinding of spring 148 and the counter-rotation of shaft 142 can be accurately correlated with time.

In the form of the invention shown in the drawings, the cam means and the cooperating handle means are of highly novel design. Referring particularlyto Figure 5, the handle means comprises a first cylindrical portion 156which is rotatably carried within a depending sleeve 158 which is formed as a part of the upper portion 22a of base 22. Cylindrical portion 156 is provided with a keyway 160 which receives a key 162 formed on the shank portion 164 of a handle 166. With this construction, rotation of handle 166 will cause rotation of cylindrical portion 156.

Formedatthelowerextremityofcylindrical portion 156 is a centrally apertured base plate 168 having depending therefrom a central portion 170. Portion 170 is provided with a central bore 171 having a flat surface which is adapted to mate with shaft 142 which is also provided with a flat surface 142a (Figure 6).

Accordingly, when shaft 142 istelescopically received within bore 171, rotational movement of handle 166 will cause corresponding rotational movement of shaft 142.

Provided proximate the periphery of base plate 168 is a depending finger 172 which, as best seen in Figure 6, is closely receivable within an arcuate slot 174 formed in a cam plate 176which comprises a part cjf the cam means of the invention. With this construction, rotational movement of handle 166 in a first, clockwise direction will cause finger 172 to also rotate cam plate 176 in a first clockwise direction from the position shown in Figure 6 to the position shown in Figure 7.Because ofthe novel configuration of the peripheral surface of cam plate 176, rotation ofthe cam plate will cause the outer periphery of the plate, which is in constant contact with stem 114 ofthe valve memberl08,tomovethevalvememberagainstthe urging of spring 130 into the open position shown in Figure 7.

When the handle 166 is released, the spring motor will cause the shaft 142, along the handle means, including finger 172, to move in the opposite, or counter-clockwise direction at a predetermined rate of rotation. As shaft 142 rotates, finger 172 will move within slot 174 from the position shown in the solid lines of Figure 7 to the position shown in the phantom lines of Figure 7. When thefinger reaches the end of slot 142 the motor will cause rotation of cam plate 176 in a counter-clockwise direction caming itto return to its starting point as shown in Figure 6. With the cam plate in this position spring 130 will have moved the valve member 108 to the right into the closed position shown in Figure7 thereby blocking furtherflow of waterthrough the valve means.

Since the motor 144 drives shaft 142 at a known rate of speed, the time required forthe finger 172 to move from one extremity of the slot 174to the other can easily be determined. This time will represent the minimum time period during which the valve will remain open. Once the end of the slot 174 is reached, the speed of rotation of the cam plate bythefinger 172, will be the same as the speed of rotation ofthe shaft 142. This being the case, thetime required forthe cam plate to return to its starting position from various rotational positions of the handle 150 can also be easily determined. These times when added to the minimum time period previously discussed will give the total time period during which the valve will remain open.Accordingly, calibrations representing time can be marked on the upper surface of the housing as indicated by the numerals 2 through Sin Figures 6 and 7 (identified by the letter "T"). By inscribing an arrow or pointer "P" on handle 166 and by rotating the handle until the arrow aligns with one of the calibration marks "T", the time of operation of the dishwasher can selectively be set by the operator.

Obviously the greaterthe amount of initial clockwise rotation ofthe handle 166 and the com plate 176, the longerwill be the time period during which the valve means remains open. If desired, signal means such as a bell can be incorporated into the control means to signal the close of the valve and the completion of the washing cycle.

Also forming a part of the apparatus of the present invention is the previously mentioned dosing means 18 which is adapted to cooperate with the jet means for dosing the water flowing through the jet means with an emulsifier. In the present form ofthe invention,the dosing means comprises a housing 180 having an upperchamber 180a (Figure 2) disposed above floor 24 and a lower chamber 180b disposed belowfloor24. Chambers 180a and 180b are divided by a partition 182 and are in communication with one anothervia holes extending through the partition.

Chamber180a is closed by a cap 184which is removably interconnected to housing 180 by any suitable means. With the cap removed, a liquid or powered soap can be added to chamber 180a. The dosing means has an inlet '186 which is connected to the outlet 94 of valve means 36 by means conduit 52a and an outlet 190 which is connected to the jet means by conduit 52. Flow ofwaterthrough the dosing means will causethesoapto mix with the water and to flow toward the spray jet means.

Anotherfeature ofthe improved dishwasher of the present invention is a retractable drain trough 192 (Figure 2) which conveniently slides into and out of a guide 194 disposed within the cavity defined between the upper and lower base members 22a and 22b. As best seen in Figure 2,the guide 192 is integrally formed with floor 24 and is in communication with the washing chamber so that when trough 192 is in an extended position waterwill flow byforce of gravity along the sloping floor 24 into the trough forthe deposition into an adjacent sink or drain conduit. The drain trough is of a capacity sufficient to adequately drain the apparatus with no fear of the water level therein rising above a safe, predetermined level.

Operation In operating the apparatus of the embodiment of the invention shown in the drawings, the entire unit may be conveniently placed on a sinkcabinetwith the trough 192 being movable into the extended position shown in Figure 3 overhanging the sink portion of the sink cabinet. In this position, water flowing from the interior of the unit along trough 192 will be safely deposited into the sink for drainage through the drain lines attached to the sink unit itself. With the assemblage in position on the sink cabinet, or drainage board, the device can be interconnected with the domestic hot watersource.

Once the dishwasher apparatus is interconnected with the hot water line ofthe domestic supply and the drain trough is extended in the manner shown in Figure 3, the closure housing 14 is rotated to an open position. In this open position free and convenient access to the rack assemblage 15 is provided. The dishes and silverware to be washed can then be placed on the rack assemblage and are strategically supported thereon by the structural elements of the assemblage so that continued rotation ofthe rack by the jet means will be assure.

Next, the diverter means is setto accommodate the pressure of the domestic water source being used. If the source pressure is low, the control member 38 is set so that the aperture therein aligns with aperture 76 in the conduit 74 of the collimated jet means. With this setting, part ofthe waterwill be diverted to the collimated jet means and a collimated jet stream will be directed in a forward direction against the vanes provided at the lower periphery ofthe rack assemblage. With this setting, both the collimated jet means and the spray jet means will cooperate to rotate the rack.

Ifthewatersource isa normal pressure the control member38 is set to block the apertures in conduit 74 thereby permitting all ofthewatertoflowtothespray jet means.

On the other hand, if the domestic water source is at high pressure,the aperture in the control member38 is aligned with aperture 78 in the conduit 74. With this setting,the collimated jet means will direct a reverse stream of water at the vanes tending to brake the speed of rotation of the rack.

Oncethe divertermeans is setandthe dishes and silverware have been loaded into the dishwasher apparatus, the rotatable portion of the closure housing can be moved into a closed position. With the rotatable portion ofthe closure housing is disposed in this closed position, the unit will be entirely watertight and the only water coming from the unit will be water draining through drain trough 192 into the sink.

With the closure housing in the closed position, the hotwatervalve orfaucet may beturned on, causing waterto flow into the apparatus through the "In" conduit 197 (Figure 2). However, since the valve means is normally closed, nowaterwillflowthrough the valve until the handle 166 is rotated to the desired time setting. By rotating handle 166 in a clockwise direction, the motorspring will be wound and the cam plate 176will be rotated causing valve member 108 to move into an open position against the urging of spring 130. This opening of the valve will permitwater to flowtoward the water jet means through conduits 52a and 52.

Afterthe handle 166 is set the motor 144 will drive shaft 142 in a reverse, counter-clockwise direction at a predetermined rate of speed. Rotation of shaft 142 will cause finger 172 to pass through the slot 174 in the cam plate and then to rotatethe cam plateto its starting position wherein the valve means will automatically close thus completing the washing cycle.

Turning to Figure 1 1,there is shown an alternate form of upper spray tube designated as 44a. This tube is provided with a downwardly depending leg 45a which has at least one aperture "A" formed therein.

Leg 45a is closed by a removable closure plug 47a.

With this construction, calcium build-ups and other foreign matter in the waterflowing through the spray tubes will tend to collect within depending leg 45a.

These foreign materials can periodically be removed by removal of plug 47a.

Having now described the invention in detail in accordance with the requirements ofthe patent statutes, those skilled in this artwill have no difficulty in making changes and modifications in the individual parts or their relative assembly in order to meet specific requirements or conditions. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention, as set forth in the following claims.

Claims (14)

1. A dishwasher adapted to be interconnected with a source of water under pressure, comprising: (a) a base; (b) a closure housing carried by said base; (c) a rack rotatably mounted within said housing, said rack having a lower peripheral portion and interconnected upstanding portions adapted to support articles to be washed; (d) jet means interconnected with the source of water under pressure for directing jets of water in the direction of said rack to impart rotational movement thereto, said jet means comprising: (1) a spray jet means for urging rotation of said rack, said means comprising a first conduit extending beneath said rack, a second generally vertically extending conduit interconnected with said first conduit and disposed proximate the periphery of said rack and a third conduit interconnected with said second conduit and extending above said rack; and (2) a collimated jet means for emitting a collimated stream of water in the direction of said rack, said means being disposed proximate the interconnection point of said first and second conduits; and (3) control means comprising: (i) valve means for regulating the flow of water from the source of water under pressure to said jet means; and (ii) diverter means for selectively dividing the flow of water between said collimated jet means and said spray jet means and for directing said collimating jet means in a forward driving or reverse driving direction relative to said rack.

2. A dishwasher as defined in Claim 1 in which said valve means comprises: (a) a housing; (b) a waterinletto said housing; (c) a water outlet from said housing, said water outlet being connected to said jet means; (d) an internal valve seat disposed between said water inlet and said water outlet; (e) a valve member normally disposed in a first closed position in sealable engagement with said valve seat to block the flow of water between said water inlet and said water outlet, said valve member being movable from said first closed position to a second open position spaced from said valve seat; and (f) operating means for moving said valve member to said second position, including means for maintaining said valve member in said second position for predetermined periods of time.

3. A dishwasher as defined in Claim 1 in which said collimated jet means comprises a length of conduit disposed intermediate said first conduit and said second conduit of said spray jet means, said length of conduit being provided with a first aperture.

4. A control member having an aperture formed therein, said control member being movable relative to said length of conduit from a first position wherein said aperture therein is aligned with said first aperture in said length of conduit to a second position wherein said member is blocking said first aperture.

5. A dishwasher as defined in Claim 4 in which said length of conduit is provided with a second aperture circumferentially spaced from said first aperture and in which said control member is movable relative to said length ofconduitto a third position where the aperture therein is aligned with said second aperture in said length of conduit.

6. A dishwasher as defined in Claim 5 in which said first and second apertures are spaced approximately 90 degrees.

7. Adishwasheradaptedto be interconnected with a source of water under pressure, comprisinq: (a) a base; (b) a closure housing carried by said base; (c) a rack rotatably mounted with in said housing, said rack having a lower peripheral portion and a plurality of circumferentially spaced vanes affixed to said lower peripheral portion; (d) jet means interconnected with the source of water under pressure for directing jets of water in the direction of said rack to impart rotational movement thereto, said jet means comprising: (1) asprayjetmeansfordirecting a multiplicity of jets of water at said rack to urge rotation thereof; (2) a collimated jet means for emitting a collimated stream ofwater in the direction ofsaid vanes; and (3) control means comprising: (i) valve means for regulating the flow of water from the source of water under pressure to said jet means; and (ii) diverter means for selectively dividing the flow of water between said collimated jet means and said spray jet means; said diverter means comprising: (a) a length of conduit disposed proximatethe periphery of said rack, said length of conduit being provided with afirstaperture; and (b) a control member having an aperture formed therein, said control member being movable relative to said length of conduit from a first position wherein said aperture therein is aligned with said first aperture in said length ofconduitto a second position wherein said member is blocking said first aperture.

8. A dishwasher as defined in Claim 7 in which said length of conduit is provided with a second aperture circumferentially spaced from said first aperture and in which said control member is movable relative to said length of conduit to a third position where the aperture therein is aligned with said second aperture in said length of conduit.

9. A dishwasher as defined in Claim 7 in which said valve means comprises: (a) a housing defining an internal chamber; (b) a water inlet to said housing communicating with said chamber; (c) a water outlet communicating with said cham ber, said water outlet being connected to said jet means; (d) an internal valve seat disposed intermediate said water inlet and said water outlet; (e) a valve member normally disposed in a first closed position in sealable engagement with said valve seat to block the flow of water between said water inlet and said water outlet, said valve member being movable from said first closed position to a second open position spaced from said valve seat; and (f) operating means for moving said valve member to said second position.

10. A dishwasher as defined in Claim 9 in which said operating means includes timer means for maintaining said valve member in said second position for a predetermined period of time.

11. Atimervalveforcontrollingtheflowoffluid within a housing having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet comprising: (a) a valve seat disposed within the housing intermediate said fluid inlet and said fluid outlet; (b) a valve member having a stem portion and a valve seat engaging portion, said valve member being movable from a first position wherein said valve seat engaging portion is in sealable engagement with said valve seat to a second open position wherein said portion is spaced from said valve seat; (c) biasing meansforyieldably resisting movement of said valve memberfrom said first position to said second position; and (d) operating means including: (i) cam meansforengaging said stem portion of said valve memberfor moving said valve member from said first position to said second position upon movement of said cam means in a first direction; and (ii) actuating means operably associated with said cam meansforfirst moving said cam means a predetermined distance in a first direction from a first starting point to a second point and thenforcontrollably moving said cam means in an opposite direction from said second point to said first starting point in a predetermined elapsed time.

12. Atimervalve as defined in Claim 11 in which said actuating means comprises: (a) motor means; (b) a shaft drivably interconnected with said motor means and with said cam means, said shaft being movable in a first direction to move said cam means a predetermined distance from a starting point and being movable in a second direction by said motor means to return said cam means to said starting point in a predetermined elapsed time.

13. Atimervalve as defined in Claim 12 in which said cam means includes a cam plate connected to said shaftfor rotation thereby, said cam plate being adapted to engage said stem portion of said valve member.

14. Atimervalve as defined in Claim 13 in which said motor means comprises a spiral spring operably connected to said shaft.