GB2180441A - Dishwasher - Google Patents

Abstract

In a water-powered dishwasher comprising a housing, a rack rotatably mounted within the housing, a spray system for directing jets of water in the direction of the rack to impart rotational movement thereto, and flow regulating mechanism including a timer valve and diverter assembly, the rack is mounted on a column 220 provided at its base with an insert 212 having a tip 216 engaging a female bearing member 214 in aperture 208 formed in hub portion 206, and at its top with an insert 222 having a journal 224 engaging an aperture in a bearing member 228 attached to a top wall W of the housing. The rack mounting arrangement is designed to ensure that even when the rack is fully loaded with dishes its axis of rotation is maintained in alignment with the vertical axis of the housing. The dishwasher may be provided with a mechanism for dosing the spray water with a liquid or powdered soap. <IMAGE>

Description

SPECI FICATIO N EXíshwasher Background of the invention Field of the Invention- The present invention relates generally to dis hwashers and moreparticularlyto a non-electric, self-contained, dishwasher unit adapted to be remov ably interconnected:wík eitlaer a high pressure, medium pressure oirlowpressure domestic water supply.

Discussion of the 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 inability to rapidly and effectively clean dishes and cookware and their inability to operate satisfactorily when connected to domestic water supplies.

Many ofthe 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 rack holding the dishes. These emitters, which operate in much the same manner as lawn spinklers, have proven ineffective in the removal of most troublesome types of food residue on the dishes. Othertypes of emitters have from time to time been tried, butforthe most part have also proven to be effective.

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 firsttime, 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 difficult food residue from dishes and cookware. The improved water jet means ofthe unit of the present invention controllably directs a multiplicity of high velocity water jets at the articles to be washed while they are supported within the unit on a unique holding 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 thecleaning efficiency of the device.

An important aspectofthe present invention is the improvedwaterjet meanswhich enables the unit to work at peak efficiency even when attached to domesticwatersystems having very low pressures of on the order of 5 to 10 psi. Thewaterjet means comprises an adjustable first collimated jet means which can be used in lowwaterpressuresituationsto initiate and assist in sustaining the rotation ofthe rotatable rack which supports the dirty dishes. The water jet means also includes an adjustable second spray jet means which accomplishes the efficient scrubbing and cleansing action and also functions to sustain the rotation ofthe rack.The control means which are operably associated withthejetmeans permitthe collimated let means to be used 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. According ly, the unique control means ofthe invention permits the rack to always be rotated at an optimum rate of speedformaximum 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 of the device is readily adjustable with respectto the rack so that a multiplicity offine, 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 rack while at the same time 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 adjustably 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-electric free 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 asto quickly and efficiently dislodge and thoroughly clean even the most stubborn offood 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.

Anotherobjectofthe invention isto provide a dishwasher as described in the previous pa rag ragh 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 callimated waterjet can be closed and the full force of the water directed toward a jet spray The drawing(s) originally filed was (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 of the invention uniquely permits the first jetto be used to brake the speed of rotation of the rack.

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

A further object of the invention is to provide an improved dishwasherofthe class described which is compact, lightweight, highly attractive and extremely simpleto use and maintain.

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

Still another object ofthe invention isto provide an improved dishwasher ofthe class described in which there is provided a novel timervalve means which can besetfrom the exterior of the unit to precisely control the time period during which water will flow to the unit during the washing cycle and to automatically and positively shut off the water supply at the completion of the washing cycle.

These and other objects of the invention are realized byan improved rotatable dishwasher adapted to be connected to a domesticwatersupply line comprising a housing, a rack rotatably mounted within the housing, the rack being adapted to support articles to be washed, jet means for directing a jet of water in the direction of said rack to impart rotational movement thereto, the jet means comprising a collimatedjetfor emitting a collimated stream of water in the direction of the lower peripheral portion ofthe rack when the apparatus is used with domesticwatersupplies having very high or very low pressures and a spray jet mensfor emitting a multiplicity ofwatersprayjets in the direction ofthe rack during the washing cycle.A novel timer means controls thetime period during which waterwillflowtowardthejet means.

Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is an exploded generally perspective view ofthe outer housing and article supporting racks of a dishwasher apparatus in accordance with one exampleofthe invention.

Figure2 is an exploded generally perspective view of the base, jet means and control means of the apparatus as they appear with the supporting rack and outer housings removed.

Figure 3 is a generally perspective view of the assembled dishwasher.

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

FigureS is afragmentary cross-sectional view taken along lines 5-5 of Figure 4showing the internal construction ofthe timervalve.

Figure 6 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view ofthe 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 timervalve similarto Figure 6 but showing the valve in an open position.

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

Figure 9 is an enlargedfragmentary cross-sectional view of the diverter means portion of the control means of the apparatus for selectively dividing the flow of water from the timer valve between the collimated jet means and the spray jet means.

Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 10-10 of Figure 9 further illustrating the construction of thediverter means.

Figure 11 is a greatly enlarged fragmentary view, partly in cross-section, of an alternate form of spray jet means.

Figure 12 is a front elevational view of another embodimentofthe dishwasher apparatus ofthe invention.

Figure 13 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view taken along lines 13-13 of Figure 12.

Figure 14 is an enlarged fragmentary taken along lines 14-14Of Figure 12.

Figure iSis an enlarged fragmentary cross-section- alviewtakenalong lines 15-15 of Figure 14.

Figure 16 is a greatly enlarged plan view of a diverter plate adapted for use in connection with the dosing means ofthe apparatus.

Description of One Form of the Invention Referring now to the drawings and particularly to Figures 1,2 and 3, the dishwasher which is generally designated in Figure 3 by the numeral 12, includes a housing 14, a rack assemblage 15 mounted for rotation within housing 14, jet means 16for directing a jetofwaterat rack assemblage 1 5 to impart rotational movement thereto, and dosing means 18 adapted to cooperate with the jet means for dosing with an emulsifierwaterflowing through the jet means.

As shown in Figure 1,the housing 14 of the unit, which can suitably be constructed of thin plastic or sheet metal, comprises a first stationary part 14a and a rotatable part 14b which compdses the closure means of the apparatus. While the housing shown in the drawings is generally cylindrical in shape, itcoould 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 14a of the housing is sealably received in track 20b whilethe 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 a spherical bearing 17a 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 defines the outer periphery of a floor 24 which 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 ofwhich will be presently discussed.

Turning once again to Figure 1, rackassemblage 15 includes a rack having upper and lower circularly shaped members 1 5a and 15b and apertured hub portion 1 sic and 15d. Radiating outwardly from these hub portions are a plurality of spokes 1 sue and 1Sf. The upper and lower members 15a and 15b are maintained in a vertically spaced apart location by four supports 159. Receivable with the apertures of hub portions 1 sic and 15d are inserts 15h and 1 Si.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 cookware 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 arrangementthe rack assemblage is freely rotatable with housing 14 about the central column 28.

Also forming a part of the rack assemblage 1 5 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 silverwareto be washed at a slight angle with respect to the vertical axis of the unit. More specifically, the uppermember34a is provided with a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart hook-like protrusions 34c which define openings therebetween adapted to receive the handle portion ofthe silverware.Similarly lower member34b is provided with a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart apertures 34d, or recesses, adapted to support the opposite end ofthe silverware. Apertures 34c and 34d are angularly offsetsothatthesilverwarewill be maintained on an angular, orsloping, orientation during the washing operation which has been found to be optimum for an efficient scrubbing action by the water spray jets.

In the embodiment of the 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 ofthe rack assemblage and a spray jet means for providing the washing action and for continuously urging controlled rotation ofthe 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 domesticwaterthereto.

Turning to Figures 2,4,5 and 6, the control means of the invention can be seen to comprise timervalve means36forregulatingtheflowofwaterfromthe domestic water system, or 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 let means is provided in the form of a specially configured hollow tubing comprising afirst substantially horizontal extending conduit leg portion 40 extending beneath rack assemblage 15, a substantial lyvertically extending conduit leg portion 42 disposed proximatethe periphery of rack 15 (Figure 3) and a substantially horizontally extending portion 44 disposed above rack 15. The inboard ends of portions 40 and 44a are closed by plug assemblages 47.

The tubing ofthe spray let means may be con- structed from copper, aluminum, plasticor 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 of the 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 14which sustains rotation of rack 15 and produces a unique scrubbing type of cleansing action on the dishes and cookware supported in rack assemblage 15.The velocity of these jets coupled with the three dimensional 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 18 through conduits 52 one end of which is connected to e connectar 54 wh ich forms a part of the spray jet means (Figure 2). The dosing means is, in turn, connected to the timer valve means 36 by conduit 52a.

Connector 54 has a shank portion 52a and a flange portion 54b. Shank54a extends through floor24for 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. Adpator 58 is affixed to floor 24 by threaded connector 60.

As seen in Figure 2, adapter 58 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 spray tu be 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 comprise the primary components of the adjustment means for adjusting the orientation of the spray jet means. While the components are shown asthreadably interconnected, other connections such as slipfit or bayonet4ype connections can be used. By adjusting the spray tube in the manned described, 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 ofthe rack assemblage duringthewashingcycleand insuresanoptimum 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 dishwasher as it drainstowardthecenterofthe unit.

As best understood by referring to Figures 3 and 8, the collimated jet means, generallydesignated bythe numeral 70, is disposed proximate the interconnection point ofthe horizontal spraytube 40 and the verticalspraytube42. This important means functions to emit acollimated stream of water in the direction of depending vanes 72, which vanes depend from the outer periphery of rack member 15b. In the present embodiment ofthe 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 ofthe sprayjet means.Conduit74 is provided with strategically located circumferentially spaced first and second apertures 76 and 78 (Figures 9 and 10), the purpose of which will presently be described.

An extremely important aspect ofthe present invention resides in the unique and improved control meansforcontrolling the flow of water 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 member80 (Figures 8,9 and 10) having a radially extending aperture 82 formed therein. Control member 80 is rotatably carried by conduit74and is angularly movable relative to conduit74from a first position as shown in Figure 9 wherein aperture 82 is aligned with aperture 76 formed in length of conduit 74to a second position wherein the walls of the control member are blocking aperture 76 free 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 atvanes72 in a mannerto urge forward rotation ofthe rack assemblage 15 (Figure 3). When the control member is rotated to said second position, flow ofwaterthrough the collimated jet means will be blocked and all ofthe water coming from the domestic water source will flow through the spray jet means.

Another unique aspect ofthe invention resides in the factthatthe control mem ber 80 can be moved to a third position wherein aperture 82 is aligned with aperture 78formed in tube portion 74 (see phantom lines atthe 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 therebyfunctionsto brake the forward rotation of the rack assemblage.

The novel design of the diverter means uniquely permits accommodation of high, low and medium domesticwatersource pressures. When the domestic water pressure is low, the diverter is set atthe first position wherein the collimated jet means is assisting the spray jet means in overcoming starting inertia and in maintaining uniform rotation ofthe rackassemblage at an optimum rate of speed. In cases where the domestic water pressure is nominal,the diverter is set at the second position blocking flow ofwaterto 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 directiontendingto brake, orslow, rotationofthe rack assemblage.

As will be appreciated from an analysis of Figure9, fine adjustments of the collimated jet means can be made by rotating the control member so that apertures 76 and 78 are partially covered rather than indexed in the manner shown 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, member80 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 definesfirstoutlet64.

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-rings88which 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 ofthe member among the first, second and third positions.

Turning nowto Figures4through 6, the timer valve means portion ofthe control means is there illustrated. This valve means functions to regulate the flow of water from the domestic source of water under 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 chamber 96 (Figure 5). Afirst leg 98 of the housing is adapted to be interconnected with an inlet conduit 100while 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 ofslipfit, quick couplings 105 which are commercially available andform no part of the present invention. Afirst internal valve seat 106 is formed within chamber 96 intermediate the flow path of the waterflowing 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 thevalve seat 106 in the manner shown in Figures 5 and 6. In this closed position valve member 108functionsto 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 of the member is spaced apart from the valve seat 106.

Valve member 108 is generally cylindrical in shape, having an internal fluid passageway 110formed within the elongated body portion 112 of the valve member. Interconnecting body portion 112 with a stem portion 114 is a taperedwall 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 fluid tight seal, the valve member 112 is provided with acircumferentiallyextending groove adapted to carry an elastomeric O-ring 120 which is adapted to sealablyengagevalve seat 106 when the valve is in a closed position.

Disposed within the rearward, or left, portion of chamber96isanannularshapedmemberl2l,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 adapated to sealably engage second valve seat 122. This second sealing arrangement functions to preclude flow of waterfrom the inlet 100 rearwardly orto the left of the housing as viewed in Figures 5 and 6.

When the valve is in an open position as shown in Figure 7, water will flow into the valve through the inlet 92, past seat 106, through apertures 118 in the valve member and rearwardly in the direction of the arrows 109toward outlet 94.

Extending radially outwardly from body portion 112 proximate the left end thereof are spring retained means 126 which define shoulders 128 adapted to engage biasing means, provided here in the form 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 134 which includes an internally threaded enlarged diameter portion 134a and a smaller diameter cylindrical portion 134b with in which conduit 104 is removably received. Adapter 134 functions to hold member 120 in position within chamber 96 and also is provided with a circumferential, axially extending groove 137 which receives the rear, or left, portion of spring 130. With the biasing means orcoil spring 130 positioned within thevalve in the manner illustrated in Figures Sand 6, the forward extremity of the spring is in engagement with shoulder 128 while the rear extremity is in engage mentwiththeendwall of groove 136.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 6to the second open position shown in Figure 7. A rubber gasket 131 is disposed between housing 190 and adapter34to 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 of time. In the present embodiment of the invention the operating means comprise cam means and actuating 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 member to move the valve member from the first closed position to the open second position upon movement of the 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 pointto 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 initiallyfunctionsto rotate the cam means in a first direction, which in turn moves the valve memberfrom the first closed position to the second open position against the urging ofthe biasing means or spring 130.The actuating means then 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 duetotheurging 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 uppercylindricallyshapedportion 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 148 formed 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 withshaftl42through insertionofthetabintoaslot 150 formed in a shaft 142 which extends upwardly from chamber 142through a suitable bushing 152, carried by housing 140. The outer extremity ofthe spiral spring is connected to the housing 140 so that rotation of shaft 142 in a first a in direction 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 priorartand can be calibrated sothatthe unwinding of spring 148andthecounter-rotationof shaft 142 can be accurately correlated with time.

Intheformoftheinventionshown in the drawings, the cam means and the cooperating handle means are of highly novel design. Referring particularly to Figure S,thehandlemeanscomprisesafirstcylindrical portion 156 which 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.

Formed at the lower extremity of cylindrical portion 156 is a centrally apertured base plate 168 having depending therefrom a central portion 170. Portion 170 is providedwith a central bore 171 having a flat surface which is adaptedto mate with shaft 142 which is also provided with a flat surface 142a (Figure 6).

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

Provided proximatethe 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 176 which comprises a part of 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 afirst clockwise direction from the position shown in Figure 6tothe position shown in Figure 7. Because of the novel configuration ofthe peripheral surface of cam plate 176, rotation of the cam plate will cause the outer periphery of the plate, which is in constant contactwith stem 114 ofthe valve memberl08,tomovethevalvememberagainstthe urging of spring 130 into the open position shown in Figure7.

When handle 166 is released, the spring motor wil I cause the shaft 142, along with the handle means, including finger 172, to move in the opposite, or counter-clockwise direction ata predetermined rate of rotation. As shaft 142 rotates, finger 172 will move within slot 174from the position shown in the solid lines of Figure 7 to the position shown in phantom lines of Figure 7. When the finger reaches the end of slot 142 the motorwill 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 Figure 7 thereby blocking furtherflow of waterthroughthevalve means.

Sincethe motor 144 drives shaft 142 ata known rate of speed, the time required forthe finger 172 to move from one extremity ofthe slot 174 to the other can easily be determined. This time will representthe minimumtime period during which thevalvewill remain open. Once the end of slot 174 is reached,the speed of rotation ofthe cam plate by the finger 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 1 60 can also be easily determined.These times when addedtothe minimum time period previously discussed will give the total time period during which the valve will remain open. Accordingly, calibrations representing timecan be marked on the uppersurfaceofthe housing as indicated by the numerals 2through 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 arrowalignswith one ofthe 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 of the handle 166 and the cam 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 ofthe present invention is the previously mentioned dosing means 1 8which is adapted to cooperate with the jet means for dosing the water flowing through the jet means with an emulsifier. In the present form of the invention, the dosing means comprises a housing 180 having an upper chamber 1 80a (Figure 2) disposed abovefloor24and a lower chamber 180b disposed below floor 24. Chambers 180a and 180b are divided bya partition 182 and are in communication with one another via holes extending through the partition.

Chamber 180a is closed by a cap 184which is removably interconnected to housing 180 by any suitable means. With the cap removed, a liquid or powdered soap can be added to chamber 180a. The dosing means has an inlet 186 which is connected to the outlet94 of valve means 36 by means of conduit 52a and an outlet 190 which is connected to the jet means by conduit 52. Flowofwaterthroughthe dosing means will causethesoapto mix with the water and toflow toward the spray jet means.

Anotherfeature ofthe improved dishwasher ofthe present invention is a retractable drain trough 192 (Figure 1) 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 by force of gravity along the sloping floor 24 into the trough for deposition into an adjacent sink or drain conduit. The drain trough is of a capacity sufficient to adequately drain the apparaus with no fear ofthe water level therein rising above a safe, predetermined level.

Operation In operating the apparatus ofthe 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, waterflowing from the interior ofthe unit along trough 192 will be safely deposited intothesinkfordrainagethroughthedrain lines attached to the sink unit itself. With the assemblage in position on the sink cabinet, ordrainage board, the device can be interconnected with the domestic hot water source.

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 14is 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 of the rack by the jet means will be assure.

Next, the diverter means is set to accommodate the pressureofthe domesticwatersource 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 water will 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 of the rack assemblage. With this setting, both the collimated jet means andthesprayjetmeanswill cooperate to rotate the rack.

If the water source is a normal pressure the control member38 is set to block the apertures in conduit 74 thereby permitting all ofthe waterto flowto the spray 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 ofthe rack.

Oncethedivertermeans is set and the dishes and silverware have been loaded into the dishwasher apparatus, the rotatable portion of the closure housing can be moved into a closed portion. 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 be turned on, causing watertoflow into the apparatus through the "In" conduit 197 (Figure 2). However,sincethevalve means is normallyclosed, nowaterwillflowthrough the valve until the handle 166 is rotated to the desired time setting. By rotating handle 166 in a clockwise direction,themotorspringwill bewoundandthecam plate 176 will be rotated causing valve member 108 to move into an open position againstthe urging of spring 130. This opening ofthe valve will permitwater to flow toward the water jet means th rough conduits 52a and 52.

Aferthe handle 166 is setthe 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 passthroughtheslot 174 in the cam plate and then to rotate the cam plate to its starting position wherein the valve means will auto matically close thus completing the washing cycle.

Turning to Figure 11, there is shown an alternate form of upper spray tu be 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 water flowing through the spray tubes will tend to collect within depending leg 45a.

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

Referring particularlyto Figures 12 and 13 of the drawings, there is shown stil another form of the dishwasher ofthe present invention, generally designated in Figure 12 by the numeral 200. Many of the operating components ofthisform of the invention are identical to those of the embodiments previously described herein and like numerals are used to identify like components. This embodiment of the invention includes a housing 14, and a differently configured rack assemblage 202 mounted for rotation within housing 14 upon a different and unique form of suspension means, the details of which will presently be described.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 12 through 15, the jet means 16, including the spray jet means and the collimated jet means, for directing a jet of water at rack assemblage 15to impart rotational movement thereto and the valve and diverter means for controlling water flow are substantially identical to the means previously described herein and their details of construction will not be repeated.

As shown in Figures 1 and 12, the housing 1 4 of the unit, comprises afirststationary part 14a and a rotatable part 1 4b which, as in the earlier described embodiments, comprises the closure means ofthe apparatus. The housing 14 is received in concentric, circulartracksformed inthe upperpoffion 22a of a generally rectangular base 22.

Disposed interiorly of the tracks is s floor 204 which defines near its center portion a frustoconically shaped, upwardly extending hub 206 (Figure 13).

Located within an apeffu re 208 formed i n the top closurewall 210 of hub 206 is the female portion of a first bearing means, shown here as insert member 212. Member 212 has a generally hemispherically shaped concave portion 214 which defines a female bearing surface adapted to rotatably receive the male portion of the first bearing means, provided here in the form of a frustoconically shaped tip 216 carried by the rack supporting column. Column assembly2l8com- prises a rigid tubular main body portion 220 having hollow upper and lower ends. Received within the upper end of portion 220 is partofasecond bearing means comprising an insert 222 having an upwardly extending reduced diameter portion 224 which forms the journal of the second bearing means.As best seen in Figure 13,the male portion ofthefirst bearing means, namelytapered tip 216 isformed on a lower insert 226, which insert is received in the lower end portion of body portion 220 of the column assembly.

Referring pa rticularly to Figures 13 and 14, attached to the top wall "W" of part 14a of housing 14 is another portion of the second bearing means, show here in the form of a downwardly depending member 228 which is generally triangularly shaped in plan. Member 228 which rotatably supports the column assembly 218, can be connected to topwall "W" by any suitable means, but preferably is secured as by bonding, press fit or by the use of fasteners to downwardly depending, spaced apart conically shaped protuberances 230 formed integrally with top wall "W". Protuberances 230 are closely receivable within spaced apart, conically shaped openings 232 formed proximate the ends of a main leg 234 of member 228. Extending angularlyinwardlyfrom leg234aretwolegs236 which completethetriangleandcooperatetoform an apex portion 238. Apex portion 238 is provided with an aperture 240 which forms the bearing of the second bearing means adapted to rotatably receive the journal portion 224 of insert 222.

While various materials can be used in the construction ofthe column assembly and bearing means, the column assembly and first bearing member 212 are preferably constructed of a rigid stainless steel or nickel plated steel. Members 210 and 228, on the other hand, are preferably constructed of glass4illed nylon, teflon orothersimilarlowfriction materials.

Turningonceagainto Figures 12 and 13, rack assemblage 202 includes a rack having upper and lower circularly shaped members 202a and 202b and apertured hub portions 202c and 202d (Figure 13).

Radiating outwardlyfrom these hub portions are a plurality of spokes. The upper and lower members 202a and 202b are maintained in a vertically spaced apart location by a plurality of supports 202c. Receivable with the apertures of hub portions 202c and 202d are annularshaped inserts 244 and 246 (Figure 13).

These inserts, which are preferably constructed of glass-filled nylon, teflon or the like, telescopically receive body portion 220 ofcolumn assembly 218 and function to removably interconnect the rack assembly and the column assembly so that the rack assembly is freely rotatable within the housing 14, As best seen in Figure 13, insert 246 has an enlarged diameter lower portion 246a which is closely receivable over hub 206 when the rack is in position on the column assembly.

The rack is preferably constructed of coated steel wire and is specially configuredto carry and strategically position various items of crockery, cutlery, dishes and cookware within the housing and in a specific relationship with respect to the spray jet m ea ns.

With the construction ofthe central column assembly, the rack assembly and the first and second bearing means as described in the preceding para graphs,theaxesofthecolumnassemblyandtherack assembly are maintained in precise alignment with the vertical centerline ofthe housing 14. Because of the unique construction of the rigid central column and ofthe first and second bearing means of the apparatus, the rack assembly, even when fully loaded with dishes, cutlery and cookwa re, wilt be precisely maintained in coaxial alignment with the vertical axis ofthe housing 14 and will freely rotate therewithin with an absolute minimum of frictional drag.More particularly, the male bearing portion 216 of the first bearing means, being tapered toward its lower contact point, has minimal area contact with, and is freely rotatably within, the concave female bearing portion 214. Similarly,thejournal portion 224ofthe second bearing means is freely rotatable within the aperture 240 provided in the apex portion ofthe triangularly shaped, low friction material member 228. The choice of materials for the col u mn assem bly insures thatthe rack assembly will run true with minimum distortion. Similarly, the choice of materials forthe bearing means insures that minimum frictional drag will occur during operation ofthe apparatus.

Accordingly, an absolute minimum amountofforceis requiredtostartandto maintain free rotation ofthe rack assembly. This being the case, and as will be discussed in greater detail in the paragraph which follows, the dishwasher of this form ofthe invention is ideally suited for operation in areas of abnormally low domestic water pressure.

As in the previously described embodiments, in the embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 12 through 15 of the drawings, the jet means 16 comprises a collimatedjet meansfor directing a collimated stream of water at the depending vanes 250 disposed about the lower, outermost peripheral portion of the rack assemblage and further comprises a spray jet means for providing the washing action and for continuously urging smooth rotation of the rack assemblage. To control the rate of rotation ofthe rack, control means of the same character as previously described herein are provided.However, in this latter form ofthe invention, free rotation of the rack assembly is substantially enhanced because of the unique construction ofthe suspension means, included in the previously described column assembly and bearing means. Accordingly, this last described embodient ofthe invention can successfully be used even in areas having lower domestic water pressure than those in which the former embodiments of the invention can successfulybe used.

Turning nowto Figure 16, another improved feature ofthis last to be described form of the invention resides in the provision, within the dosing means, of a unique emulsion metering means 252 ofthe configuration thereshown. This metering means, which is inserted within upperchamberl80aofthedosing means housing 180 (Figure 2) and rests proximate portion 182, effectively controls and precisely meters the flow of the emulsion into the stream of water flowing towardthe spray jet means. The precise metering ofthe emulsion is made possible by the strategically located inner and outer rings of spaced apertures 254 and 256 respectively. With disk 252 in place within the dosing means, the soap, or emulsion, is uniformly meteredthroughthe rings of apertures from chamber 1 80a into the water flowing through the dosing means in a precisely controlled manner such that uniform amounts ofthe soap will impinge on the dishes and cookware within the rackthroughoutthe entire washing cycle.

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 ortheir relative assembly in order to meet specific requirements or conditions. Such changes and modifictions may be made without departing from the scope and spirit ofthe invention, as set forth in the following claims.

Claims (13)

1. Adishwasheradaptedto be interconnected with a source of water under pressure, comprising: (a) a base; (b) a closure housing carried by said base said closure housing having interconnected top and side walls; (c) a rack adapated to support articles to be washed having upper and lower peripheral portions interconnected by upstanding portions; (d) rack suspension means for supporting said rack for rotation within said closure housing, comprising: (1) a rigid generallyvertically extending column; (2) first bearing means carried by said base for rotatablysupporting said column; and (3) second bearing means carried by said top wall of said closure housing for rotatablysupporting said column; (e) 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 and a second generally vertically extending conduit interconnected with said first conduit and disposed proximate the periphery of said rack; (2) a collimated jet means for emitting a collimated stream of water in the direction of said rack; and (3) control means comprising: (i) valve means for regulating the flow ofwaterfrom the source of water under pressure to said jet means; and (ii) diverter means for selectively diverting the flow of water between said collimated jet means and said spray jet means.

2. A dishwasher as defined in Claim 1 in which said first bearing means comprises a male bearing portion carried by said column and afemale bearing portion supported by said base, said female bearing portion having a dished-out, concave portion adapted to receive said male bearing portion for rotation therewithin.

3. A dishwasher as defined in Claim 2 in which said second bearing means comprises a journal carried by said column and a member depending from said top wall of said closure housing, said member having an aperturetherein adapted to receivesaidjournalfor rotation therewithin.

4. Adishwasheradaptedto be interconnected with a source of water under pressure, comprising: (a) a base; (b) a closure housing carried by said base said closure housing having interconnected top and side walls; (c) a rack having upper and lower peripheral portions interconnected by upstanding portions adapted to support articles to be washed; (d) rack suspension means for supoorting said rack for rotation within said housing, comprising: (1) a rigid generally vertically extending column having a journal portion atone end thereof and a male bearing portion at the opposite end thereof; (2) afemale bearing carried by said base for cooperative interaction with said male bearing portion of said column; and (3) bearing means carried bysaidtopwall of said closure housing for cooperative interaction with said journal portion of said column; (e) 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 and a second generally vertically extending conduit interconnected with said first conduit and disposed proximate the periphery of said rack; (2) a collimated jet meansforemitting a collimated stream of water in the direction of said rack; and (3) control means comprising: (i) valve means for regulating the flow of waterfrom the source of water under pressure to said jet means; and (ii) diverter means for selectively diverting the flow of water between said collimated jet means and said spray jet means.

5. Adishwasherasdefined in Claim 4 in which said male bearing portion comprises a generallyfrustoco nically shaped tip affixed proximate the lower end of said column and in which said female bearing portion comprises a member supported by said base having a dished-out, concave portion adapted to receive said tip for rotation therewithin.

6. Adishwasherasdefined in Claim Sin which said tip and said concave portion of said member are constructed from nickel plated steel.

7. Adishwasheras defined in Claim 4 in which said bearing means comprises a member depending from saidtopwall and having an aperture therein adapted to closely receive said journal portion of said column said member being constructed of a low-friction material.

8. A dishwasher as defined in Claim 4 in which said rack comprises centrally disposed upper and lower apertured hub portions adapted to closely receive said column.

9. A dishwasher as defined in Claim 8 in which said upper and lower apertured hub portions are con structedfrom a Iowfriction material.

10. A dishwasher as defined in Claim 4, including dosing means carried by said base for cooperation with said jet meansfordosingthewaterflowing through said jet means with an emulsifier, said dosing means comprising a housing having an upper chamber adapted to carry an emulsifier and a lower chamber adapted to receive the waterflowing to said jet means, said upperand lowerchambers being divided by an emulsifier metering means for control Iing the amount of emulsifier passing from said first chamber into said second chamber.

11. A dishwasher as defined in claim 10 in which said emulsifier metering means comprises a disk shaped member having a plurality of spaced first apertures disposed about a ring of a first diameter and a plurality of spaced second apertures disposed about a ring of a second diameter.

12. A dishwasher substantially as herein before described with reference to figures 1 to 11 and 16 of the accompanying drawings.

13. A dishwasher substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to figures 12 to 16 ofthe accompanying drawings.