WO2021229456A1 - A device for closing and opening hatches, in particular hatches of household appliances, such as dishwashers or the like - Google Patents

A device for closing and opening hatches, in particular hatches of household appliances, such as dishwashers or the like Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2021229456A1
WO2021229456A1 PCT/IB2021/054031 IB2021054031W WO2021229456A1 WO 2021229456 A1 WO2021229456 A1 WO 2021229456A1 IB 2021054031 W IB2021054031 W IB 2021054031W WO 2021229456 A1 WO2021229456 A1 WO 2021229456A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
opening
closing element
closing
locking lever
rotation axis
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2021/054031
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Stefano ROCCHITELLI
Vito MASI
Luca TRENTINI
Original Assignee
Elettrotecnica Rold S.R.L.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Elettrotecnica Rold S.R.L. filed Critical Elettrotecnica Rold S.R.L.
Publication of WO2021229456A1 publication Critical patent/WO2021229456A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F24C15/00—Details
    • F24C15/02—Doors specially adapted for stoves or ranges
    • F24C15/022—Latches
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/42—Details
    • A47L15/4251—Details of the casing
    • A47L15/4257—Details of the loading door
    • A47L15/4259—Arrangements of locking or security/safety devices for doors, e.g. door latches, switch to stop operation when door is open
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00 
    • D06F39/12—Casings; Tubs
    • D06F39/14—Doors or covers; Securing means therefor
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B47/00—Operating or controlling locks or other fastening devices by electric or magnetic means
    • E05B47/0001—Operating or controlling locks or other fastening devices by electric or magnetic means with electric actuators; Constructional features thereof
    • E05B47/0002—Operating or controlling locks or other fastening devices by electric or magnetic means with electric actuators; Constructional features thereof with electromagnets
    • E05B47/0003—Operating or controlling locks or other fastening devices by electric or magnetic means with electric actuators; Constructional features thereof with electromagnets having a movable core
    • E05B47/0004—Operating or controlling locks or other fastening devices by electric or magnetic means with electric actuators; Constructional features thereof with electromagnets having a movable core said core being linearly movable
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B47/00—Operating or controlling locks or other fastening devices by electric or magnetic means
    • E05B47/06—Controlling mechanically-operated bolts by electro-magnetically-operated detents
    • E05B47/0607—Controlling mechanically-operated bolts by electro-magnetically-operated detents the detent moving pivotally or rotatively
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05C—BOLTS OR FASTENING DEVICES FOR WINGS, SPECIALLY FOR DOORS OR WINDOWS
    • E05C3/00—Fastening devices with bolts moving pivotally or rotatively
    • E05C3/12—Fastening devices with bolts moving pivotally or rotatively with latching action
    • E05C3/16—Fastening devices with bolts moving pivotally or rotatively with latching action with operating handle or equivalent member moving otherwise than rigidly with the latch
    • E05C3/22—Fastening devices with bolts moving pivotally or rotatively with latching action with operating handle or equivalent member moving otherwise than rigidly with the latch the bolt being spring controlled
    • E05C3/24—Fastening devices with bolts moving pivotally or rotatively with latching action with operating handle or equivalent member moving otherwise than rigidly with the latch the bolt being spring controlled in the form of a bifurcated member
    • E05C3/26—Fastening devices with bolts moving pivotally or rotatively with latching action with operating handle or equivalent member moving otherwise than rigidly with the latch the bolt being spring controlled in the form of a bifurcated member engaging a stud-like keeper
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B63/00—Locks or fastenings with special structural characteristics
    • E05B2063/0026—Elongated, e.g. stud-like, striker entering into an opening in which movable detent means engage the elongated striker

Definitions

  • the present invention belongs to the field of household appliances, such as dishwashers, washing machines, cooking ovens, fridges and/or similar household appliances.
  • the present invention relates to a closing and opening device, in particular for hatches, doors or the like, for example of household appliances of the aforesaid type, but also of furniture, e.g. fitted kitchens with closable hatches.
  • the present invention relates to a device of the aforesaid type, adapted to allow the opening of the hatch according to different methods and/or actions by a user.
  • the present invention also relates to an opening and closing system comprising an opening and closing device of the aforesaid type, as well as to a household appliance (e.g. a washing machine or similar household appliance) provided with a device and/or system of the aforesaid type.
  • the most commonly used opening and closing devices and/or systems for household appliances essentially comprise an actual closing (and opening) assembly, usually applied to the casing of the household appliance, and a backing element (a latch or hook or pin) usually fixed to the hatch of the household appliance itself.
  • the opening and closing assembly further comprises, according to the commonest solutions, a “U”-shaped opening and closing element, commonly referred to as a “wheel”, which can be rotationally switched between a first opening position, in which it is positioned and arranged to receive, and be engaged and rotated by, the backing pin on the hatch, and a second closing position, in which it retains the backing pin, thus ensuring the closing of the hatch, while, on the contrary, the switching of the closing element into the opening position results in the disengagement of the backing pin, and thus in the possibility of opening the hatch.
  • a “U”-shaped opening and closing element commonly referred to as a “wheel”
  • Devices and/or systems referred to as of the “push-to-open” type are known, in which i.e. the switching of the opening and closing element from the closing position to the opening position, and thus, ultimately, the opening of the hatch, is obtained by the user exerting a thrust on the hatch.
  • Backing or “feedback” solutions and/or devices are further included in this type of systems for verifying the effective closing of the hatch, as well as locking systems for locking the hatch in the closing position.
  • Devices and/or systems of the “pull-to-open” type are also known, in which i.e. the switching of the opening and closing element from the closing position to the opening position, and thus, ultimately, the opening of the hatch, is obtained by the user exerting a traction on the hatch.
  • a first drawback of the devices according to the known art of the “push-to-open” type relates to the fact that the same necessarily comprise the use of an actuator, wherein the “push-to-open” function is only available when the household appliance is connected to the grid.
  • a “push-to-open” function which was always available to the user regardless of a connection, or not, of the household appliance to the grid, would be desirable.
  • a device which ensured the “push-to-open” function using only mechanical components would be desirable.
  • a further drawback or factor of dissatisfaction relates to the fact that the opening of the hatch by means of thrust according to the previously-summarized methods necessarily requires the intervention of a user who is nonetheless called to act on thrust on the hatch, wherein the thrust action on the hatch may be undesirable for the user.
  • the opening and closing device and/or system according to the present invention should be characterized by a contained size and overall volume, structural simplicity, contained manufacturing costs and high reliability, as well as by being applicable to household appliances of the known type according to equally simple methods and with equally contained costs, without needing substantial changes to said household appliances.
  • the present invention is based on the general consideration according to which it is possible to achieve the above objects and, in particular, manage the functional and reliability needs by means of a device comprising a locking lever having the purpose of engaging and locking the opening and closing element or wheel in the closing position, wherein, with the opening and closing wheel locked in the closing position by the locking lever, each of the thrust and traction actions exerted by the user on the hatch results in the mutual disengagement of the opening and closing wheel and the locking lever.
  • the present invention relates to an opening and closing device (1000) for doors and/or hatches and/or similar components, in particular, of household appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, cooking ovens, fridges and similar household appliances, said device comprising an opening and closing assembly (100) comprising an opening and closing element (8) adapted to be engaged and disengaged alternatively by a backing pin (3) adapted to be rigidly fixed to one said hatch or door, wherein said opening and closing element (8) can be rotationally switched about a first rotation axis (A) in a first rotation direction from a first position to a second position and in a second rotation direction opposite to said first rotation direction from said second position to said first position, wherein the mutual thrust engagement of said backing pin (3) against said opening and closing element (8) results in a first rotational switching of said opening and closing element (8) from said first position to said
  • said locking lever (9) can be rotationally switched about a second rotation axis (B) parallel to said first rotation axis (A), wherein the rotational switching of said opening and closing element (8) about said first rotation axis (A) from said first position to said second position results in the rotational switching about said second rotation axis (B) of said locking lever (9) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof, in which it engages and locks said opening and closing element (8) in said second closing position.
  • said locking lever (9) has a first backing, where said opening and closing element (8) has a second backing (18), wherein the rotational switching of said opening and closing element (8) about said first rotation axis (A) from said first position to said second position results in the mutual engagement of said first backing and second backing (18) and in the rotational switching about said second rotation axis (B) of said locking lever (9) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof, in which it engages and locks said opening and closing element (8) in said second closing position, and wherein, with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever
  • said locking lever (9) can also be switched translationally onto a plane perpendicular to said first rotation axis (A) and rotationally about a third rotation axis (C) which lies on said plane, wherein, with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever (9), the rotation of said opening and closing element (8) in said second rotation direction from said second position to said first position results in the switching of said locking lever (9) translationally onto said plane and rotationally about said third rotation axis (C) and in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9), and wherein, with said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9) mutually disengaged, said opening and closing element (8) is free to be switched to said second position, in which it releases said backing pin (3).
  • said locking lever (9) has a third backing
  • said opening and closing assembly (100) has a fourth backing (18)
  • said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever (9)
  • the rotation of said opening and closing element (8) in said second rotation direction from said second position to said first position results in the mutual engagement of said third backing and fourth backing and in the switching of said locking lever (9) translationally onto said plane and rotationally about said third rotation axis (C), and thus in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9).
  • said device comprises a switching slide (16), which is translatable between a first position thereof and a second position thereof, wherein the translation of said switching slide (116) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof results in the rotational switching about said third rotation axis (C) of said locking lever (9) and thus in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9).
  • said locking lever (9) has a fifth backing, wherein said switching slide (16) has a sixth backing, wherein the translation of said switching slide (16) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof results in the mutual engagement of said fifth backing and sixth backing, and thus in the rotational switching about said third rotation axis (C) of said locking lever (9) and in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9).
  • said device (1000) comprises electrical means for translating said switching slide (16).
  • said opening and closing assembly (100) comprises a switching lever which can be rotationally switched about a fourth rotation axis (D) between a first position thereof and a second position thereof, wherein, with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked by said locking lever (9) in said second position, the rotational switching about said fourth rotation axis (D) of said switching lever results in the rotational switching of said locking lever (9) about said third rotation axis (C) and in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and said locking lever (9).
  • said switching lever is adapted to be rotationally switched about said fourth rotation axis (D) between said first position thereof and said second position thereof when thrust engaged by means of an accessory tongue-shaped thrust element.
  • said device (1000) comprises a module provided with LED lights, wherein the rotational switching about said first rotation axis (A) of said opening and closing element (8) from said second position to said first position results in the electrical activation of said LED lights.
  • the present invention also relates to a household appliance (2000), such as a washing machine, a dishwasher, a cooking oven, fridge or similar household appliance, said household appliance comprising a main body defining a treatment chamber comprising an access opening and a door or hatch, which can be rotationally switched between a first opening position, in which it allows accessing said treatment chamber through said access opening, and a second closing position, in which said access opening is closed by said door or hatch, wherein said household appliance (1000) comprises an opening and closing device applied to said main body and a backing pin (3) fixed to said door or hatch, wherein said opening and closing device (1000) is a device (1000) according to one of the embodiments of the present invention, wherein the rotational switching of said door or hatch from said opening position to said closing position results in the engagement of said opening and closing element (8) by said backing pin (3), and thus in the rotational switching about said first rotation axis (A) of said opening and closing element (8) from said first position to said second position, in which said backing pin (3) is retained by said opening and
  • said access opening is delimited by a front crosspiece, wherein said opening and closing device (1000) is arranged in a housing obtained in said front crosspiece.
  • said door or hatch can be rotationally switched about a substantially horizontal rotation axis thereof, wherein, with said door or hatch in said closing position, said backing pin (13) is oriented in a substantially vertical direction.
  • said household appliance is a dishwasher, wherein the rotation axis of said door or hatch, with said dishwasher in the working or operating position, is located close to the floor or ground.
  • the present invention also relates to an opening and closing system for doors and/or hatches and/or similar components, in particular of household appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers and similar household appliances comprising a main body defining a treatment chamber comprising an access opening and a door or hatch, which can be rotationally switched between a first opening position, in which it allows accessing said treatment chamber through said access opening, and a second closing position, in which said access opening is closed by said door or hatch, said system comprising an opening and closing device adapted to be fixed to the main body of one said household appliance and a backing pin (3) adapted to be fixed rigidly to a hatch or door of one said household appliance, wherein said device is a device according to one of the embodiments of the present invention. Further possible embodiments of the present invention are defined in the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • the present invention finds particularly advantageous application in household appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, cooking ovens and similar household appliances, this being the reason for which the present invention will be clarified hereinafter with reference to the use thereof in a dishwasher.
  • household appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, cooking ovens and similar household appliances
  • the possible applications of the present invention are not limited to dishwashers, washing machines, ovens, fridges, and similar household appliances; on the contrary, the present invention is adapted to be used just as conveniently in furniture with a hatch, such as, for example, fitted kitchen furniture, and nonetheless in all cases, in which access to a space is regulated by means of the opening and closing of a door or hatch.
  • Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a household appliance provided with an opening and closing system according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 2 shows perspective views of the device according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGS 3 to 6 show perspective views of component parts of the device and system according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGS 7 to 9 show perspective and plan views of the device and system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figures 10 to 13 show perspective and lateral views of component parts of the device and system according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figures 14 to 17 show perspective and plan views of further component parts of the device and system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figures 18 to 21 show perspective and lateral views of further component parts of the device according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figures 22 and 23 show perspective and lateral views of further component parts of the device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the present invention also finds advantageous application in the case of household appliances, such as washing machines, dryers, and similar household appliances, as well as in all cases in which a reliable, simple, and safe opening and closing is required and according to different methods (see previous description) of a hatch.
  • reference numeral 2000 identifies a dishwasher; as depicted, the dishwasher 2000 comprises a main body 5 defining a front opening for accessing a treatment tub or chamber (wash) inside the main body 5. Access to the chamber by means of the front opening is regulated by means of a hatch 50, which can be rotationally switched (see the double arrow) about a horizontal rotation axis (with the dishwasher in the use position) and positioned at the bottom, i.e. close to the floor or support plane of the dishwasher 2000.
  • the hatch 50 can be rotationally switched between a closing position (shown in figure 1 ), in which it isolates the wash chamber from the outside, and an opening position (not shown), in which it allows accessing the washing chamber.
  • the dishwasher 2000 is provided with an opening and closing system comprising an opening and closing device 1000 housed in a cavity obtained in an upper crosspiece 2 of the body 5, and a backing pin or latch 3 fixed to the upper edge (opposite to the rotation axis) of the hatch 50.
  • the switching of the hatch 50 from the opening position to the closing position results in the engagement of the device 1000 by the latch 3, in particular, in the locking of the latch 3 by the device 1000, and thus, of the hatch 50 in the closing position (in which the wash program can be started), according to the methods describe hereinafter with reference to figures 2 to 6.
  • the device 1000 (optionally defined hereinafter as lock) consists of a support 6 in which there are housed: two sheets 11 and a cursor or slider 10 adapted to provide (see the following description) the door open or closed signal; a “IG- shaped opening and closing element or wheel 8, a first coil spring 14, the function of which is to push the wheel 8 towards the opening position (see the following description); a solenoid assembly 15 and a solenoid slide 16 with relative second spring 17 the function of which is to automatically open the hatch at the end of the wash (see the following description); a locking lever 9, a spring cap 12 and a third spring 13, the function of said third spring 13 being to act on thrust and rotation on the lever 9 (see the following description).
  • reference numeral 7 identifies a cover 7 adapted to close the support 6 protecting the components of the lock 1000 from dust and water.
  • the opening and closing element 8 (as anticipated also referred to as said opening and closing cam or wheel) can be rotationally switched about a first rotation axis A, defined by a rotation pin onto which there is engaged the spiral portion of the spring 14, where the locking lever 9 is rotatable about a second rotation axis B parallel to said first rotation axis B, where the locking lever 9 can further be translated onto a plane perpendicular to said first rotation axis A and second rotation axis B, and rotationally switchable about a third rotation axis C, which lies on a plane parallel to said translation plane.
  • the wheel 8 When the hatch is open, the wheel 8 is positioned in the opening position in figure 2 with the opening of the U-shaped portion facing outwards; during the closing of the hatch, first, the backing pin 3 is brought close to the wheel 8 until it is housed in the U-shaped portion of the wheel 8; by continuing the closing until the hatch is positioned in the final closing position, the pin 3 engages the wheel 8 causing it to rotate in a first rotation direction about the axis A (anti-clockwise with respect to figure 2 and against the elastic resistance of the spring 14) until switching it into the final closing position in figure 6, in which it retains the backing pin 3 and thus keeps the hatch 50 in the closing position.
  • the lever 9 has a backing 90 protruding from the surface of the lever 9 facing towards the wheel 8, where the wheel 8 is provided with a latch or backing 18 (figure 3) extending parallel to the rotation axes A and B, and where the rotational switching of the wheel 8 from the opening position to the closing position results in the mutual engagement of the backings 90 and 18, and thus, in the rotational switching about the axis B of the lever 9 from the initial position to the final position.
  • the backings 90 and 18 are shaped so as to be mutually engaged also with the lever 9 in the final position in figure 6, in particular, so as to lock the wheel 8 in the closing position, preventing the automatic rotation thereof in a second rotation direction (clockwise with respect to the figures) opposite to said first rotation direction, from the closing position into the opening position under the elastic thrust of the spring 14 and thus preventing the accidental opening of the hatch.
  • the opening of the hatch 50 is only possible by mutually disengaging the locking lever 9 and the wheel 8, in particular, the respective backings 90 and 18, so as to allow the wheel 8 to switch, due to the elastic thrust of the spring 14, into the opening position, in which it releases the pin 3 and thus the hatch 50.
  • the mutual releasing of the lever 9 and of the wheel 8 is possible according to multiple, different methods described below.
  • FIG. 7 One first said “push-to-open” method is shown in figures 7 to 9; as shown in figure 8, in the hatch closed position, in which the wheel 8 is locked by the lever 9 in the closing position and the lever 9 is in the second position thereof, the backing latch 18 is positioned between a first arch-shaped portion 91 of the backing 90, and a second portion 92 of the backing 90.
  • the latch is practically imprisoned between portions 91 and 92 of the backing 90, and the switching of the wheel 8 towards the opening position is prevented by the contrast between the latch 18 and the portions 91 and 92 of the lever 9, the latter being kept in the second position (locking) in figure 8 by the elastic force of the spring 13.
  • the conformation of the portions 91 and 92 of the backing 90 is such that, with the wheel 8 locked in the closing position by the lever 9, a further rotation of the wheel 8 in the first rotation direction (anti-clockwise with respect to the figures) beyond the closing position, results in the mutual release of the latch 18 and the backings 91 and 92; basically, the rotation of the wheel 8 beyond the closing position occurs without any further rotation of the lever 9. On the contrary, the latch comes out of the space between the backings 91 and 92.
  • the rotation of the wheel 8 in the first rotation direction and beyond the second closing position can be obtained by a user exerting a thrust against the closed hatch 50; in this regard, it must be remembered that such thrust is possible due to the play of the hatch in the closed position, said play being due, for example, to the seal arranged between the hatch 50 and the main body 5 of the dishwasher, thus, where, the thrust on the hatch by the user results in an advancing of the backing pin 3, which results, in turn, in the previously described rotation of the wheel
  • FIG. 10 A second said “automatic opening” method is shown in figures 10 to 13; as shown in figure 10, the device 1000 comprises a slide 16 adapted to be translated by means of a solenoid, where the translation of the slide 16 in a first translation direction (from right to left with respect to the figures) is due to the traction action exerted by the solenoid and occurs against the elastic resistance of the spring 17, while the translation of the slide 16 in a second translation direction opposite to the first (from left to right with respect to the figures) is due to the thrust by the spring 17 in the absence of traction by the solenoid 15.
  • the slide 16 has, on the upper face thereof (facing towards the locking lever 9) a backing 160, which defines an inclined plane 162; furthermore, the lever
  • the lever 9 switches by rotating (anti-clockwise with respect to the figures 7 to 9) from the second locking position to the first release position, where, at the same time, the wheel 8, released by the lever 9, switches by rotating (clockwise with respect to the figures 7 to 9), under the action of the spring 14, from the second closing position to the first opening position, in which it expels the backing pin 3 from the U-shaped portion, thereby opening the hatch 50.
  • the traction on the slide 16 by the solenoid 15 takes place by electrically powering the solenoid 15, the power supply of the solenoid 15 being possible, in particular, for example, due to a wash end signal generated by a control unit of the dishwasher; in particular, according to the present invention, said cycle or wash end signal ultimately results in the power supply of the solenoid 15.
  • the solenoid 15 can be activated by means of pressure by a user on a key, on a pushbutton panel or a control panel of the dishwasher.
  • a third method said “pull-to-open” method, is shown in the figures 14 to 17.
  • the lever 9 comprises a further backing 95 defining an inclined plane 96; furthermore, the support 6 of the device 1000 also comprises a backing 60 thereof. With the locking lever 9 in the second locking position, the mutual position of the backings 95 and 60 is the one shown in figure 16.
  • a further method of opening the hatch 50 by means of an accessory is shown in the figures 18 to 21.
  • Said method represents a variant of the “push-to-open” method, and as shown, comprises the use of a rigid tongue-shaped accessory 19 with a tapered handle 190.
  • the tongue 19 is housed in the support 6 with the handle positioned outside the support 6 and therefore adapted to be gripped by a user and pushed towards the inside of the support 6.
  • An L-shaped lever 20 is also housed in the support 6 and adapted to be rotated, against the elastic resistance of a spring 21 , about a rotation axis D, which passes through the top of the L and lies on a plane parallel to the plane on which the rotation axis C of the locking lever 9 lies, the axis D and the axis C being substantially mutually perpendicular.
  • a branch 200 of the L is positioned facing the end of the tongue 19, opposite to the handle 190, where a thrust on the tongue 19 towards the inside of the support 6 (of the device 1000) results in a rotation of the lever 20 clockwise (with respect, for example, to figure 19, also see the arrow in figure 21 ) about the rotation axis D.
  • the second branch 201 of the lever 20, with the locking lever 9 in the second locking position thereof, is positioned beneath the locking lever 9.
  • the rotation of the lever 20 induced by the thrust by the tongue 19 results in an upward thrust by the lever 20 against the locking lever 9, and therefore, in the lifting and/or rotation about the axis C of the locking lever 9.
  • the lifting and/or rotation of the locking lever 9 about the axis C result in the release of the backings 91 and 92 by the latch 18.
  • the lever 9 switches by translating from right to left (with respect to the figures) and by rotating clockwise (again with respect to the figures) about the axis C under the thrust of the spring 13 from the second locking position to the first release position, where, at the same time, the wheel 8, released by the lever 9, switches by rotating (clockwise with respect to the figures 7 to 9), under the action of the spring 14, from the second closing position to the first opening position, in which it expels the backing pin 3 from the U-shaped portion, thereby opening the hatch 50.
  • the device 1000 comprises a module 30 provided with LED lights 32 oriented so as to light up the tub or wash chamber, the module 30 being fixed to the support 6 by means of mechanical clips 31 or alternative solutions (screws, glue, etc.) known per se and therefore not described in detail.
  • the LED lights 31 are inserted in the circuit of the dishwasher itself so that the opening of the hatch 50 and the generation of the relative open hatch signal result in the power supply and thus, in the switching on of the LED lights 31 and thus, in the automatic lighting up of the inside of the tub or wash chamber.
  • an opening and closing device is provided by means of the present invention, which allows the backing pin 3 to be released from the wheel 8 and therefore, the opening of the hatch 50 by means of at least two different methods, in particular, by means of at least the “Push-to-open” method and the “pull-to-open” method.
  • the device according to an embodiment of the present invention further allows the backing pin 3 to be automatically released from the wheel 8 and thus, the hatch to be automatically opened, e.g. at the end of the wash cycle.
  • the opening and closing system and/or device according to the present invention is characterized by a contained size and overall volume, as well as by being applicable to household appliances of known type according to simple methods and contained costs, besides not requiring substantial changes to said household appliances.
  • the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described and depicted in the drawings; on the contrary, all the variants and/or changes to the embodiments described and shown in the accompanying drawings, which will appear clear and obvious to those skilled in the art, are within the scope of the present invention.
  • the device according to the present invention can implement only the features adapted to allow the thrust or traction opening on the hatch or only the features adapted to allow the automatic opening of the hatch.

Abstract

A device (1000) for opening and closing doors and/or hatches and/or similar components, in particular of household appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers and similar household appliances, said device comprising an opening and closing assembly (100), comprising an opening and closing element (8) adapted to be engaged and disengaged alternately by a backing pin (3) adapted to be fixed rigidly to one said hatch or door, wherein said opening and closing element (8) can be rotationally switched about a first rotation axis (A) in a first rotation direction from a first position to a second position and in a second rotation direction, opposite to said first rotation direction, from said second position to said first position, wherein the mutual thrust engagement of said backing pin (3) against said opening and closing element (8) results in a first rotational switching of said opening and closing element (8) from said first position to said second position, in which said backing pin (3) is retained by said opening and closing element (8), wherein said opening and closing assembly (100) comprises a locking lever (9), which can be switched between a first position thereof and a second position thereof, and wherein the rotational switching of said opening and closing element (8) about said first rotation axis (A) from said first position to said second position results in the switching of said locking lever (9) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof, in which it engages and locks said opening and closing element (8).

Description

A DEVICE FOR CLOSING AND OPENING HATCHES, IN PARTICULAR HATCHES OF HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES, SUCH AS DISHWASHERS OR THE LIKE
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention belongs to the field of household appliances, such as dishwashers, washing machines, cooking ovens, fridges and/or similar household appliances. In particular, the present invention relates to a closing and opening device, in particular for hatches, doors or the like, for example of household appliances of the aforesaid type, but also of furniture, e.g. fitted kitchens with closable hatches. In detail, the present invention relates to a device of the aforesaid type, adapted to allow the opening of the hatch according to different methods and/or actions by a user. The present invention also relates to an opening and closing system comprising an opening and closing device of the aforesaid type, as well as to a household appliance (e.g. a washing machine or similar household appliance) provided with a device and/or system of the aforesaid type. BACKGROUND ART
The most commonly used opening and closing devices and/or systems for household appliances, such as for example dishwashers and/or similar household appliances essentially comprise an actual closing (and opening) assembly, usually applied to the casing of the household appliance, and a backing element (a latch or hook or pin) usually fixed to the hatch of the household appliance itself. The opening and closing assembly further comprises, according to the commonest solutions, a “U”-shaped opening and closing element, commonly referred to as a “wheel”, which can be rotationally switched between a first opening position, in which it is positioned and arranged to receive, and be engaged and rotated by, the backing pin on the hatch, and a second closing position, in which it retains the backing pin, thus ensuring the closing of the hatch, while, on the contrary, the switching of the closing element into the opening position results in the disengagement of the backing pin, and thus in the possibility of opening the hatch.
Devices and/or systems referred to as of the “push-to-open” type are known, in which i.e. the switching of the opening and closing element from the closing position to the opening position, and thus, ultimately, the opening of the hatch, is obtained by the user exerting a thrust on the hatch. Backing or “feedback” solutions and/or devices are further included in this type of systems for verifying the effective closing of the hatch, as well as locking systems for locking the hatch in the closing position. Devices and/or systems of the “pull-to-open” type are also known, in which i.e. the switching of the opening and closing element from the closing position to the opening position, and thus, ultimately, the opening of the hatch, is obtained by the user exerting a traction on the hatch. Backing or feedback solutions and/or devices can be included in systems of this type, too, in order to verify the effective closing of the hatch, as well as locking systems for locking the hatch in the closing position. Lastly, devices and/or systems of the so-called “automatic opening” type are known, in which, i.e. the switching of the opening and closing element from the closing position to the opening position, and thus, ultimately, the opening of the hatch, occurs automatically, by electric means, which, on completion of the wash cycle, electrically activate the opening and closing element, causing the switching thereof from the closing position to the opening position, and thus, ultimately causing the hatch to open.
The closing systems and/or devices of the known type, summarized above in short, also those according to the most recent known art, despite being appreciated from different points of view (structural and operational simplicity, good reliability, all-in- all curbed manufacturing and/or installation costs) have some drawbacks, which the present invention intends to solve or overcome.
A first drawback of the devices according to the known art of the “push-to-open” type relates to the fact that the same necessarily comprise the use of an actuator, wherein the “push-to-open” function is only available when the household appliance is connected to the grid. On the contrary, a “push-to-open” function, which was always available to the user regardless of a connection, or not, of the household appliance to the grid, would be desirable. Furthermore, a device, which ensured the “push-to-open” function using only mechanical components would be desirable.
A further drawback or factor of dissatisfaction relates to the fact that the opening of the hatch by means of thrust according to the previously-summarized methods necessarily requires the intervention of a user who is nonetheless called to act on thrust on the hatch, wherein the thrust action on the hatch may be undesirable for the user.
But perhaps the most serious drawback, which is common to all devices and/or systems according to the prior art, and therefore both to those of the “push-to-open” type and those of the “pull-to-open” type, including those of the “automatic opening” type, relates to the fact that none of them combines more than one of the above “push-to-open”, “pull-to-open” and “automatic opening” functions; in fact, no devices are known, in which the opening and closing element or wheel is switchable from the closing position to the opening position both in the “push-to-open” mode and in the “pull-to-open” mode.
But in particular no devices are known in which the opening and closing element or wheel is switchable from the closing position to the opening position both in the “push-to-open” mode and in the “pull-to-open” mode and in the “automatic opening” mode, wherein the possibility for a user of using a single mode for opening the hatch can be highly disadvantageous for the user, for example, when the only mode provided is unavailable, for example, following a failure or similar problem. Therefore, it is the main object of the present invention to overcome or at least minimize the problems summarized above and affecting the closing devices and/or systems according to the prior art.
In particular, it is a first object of the present invention to provide an opening and closing device, which allows the hatch to be opened according to at least two and preferably at least three methods, e.g. according to the “push-to-open” and “pull-to- open” methods, or one of the “push-to-open” and “pull-to-open” methods combined with the “automatic opening” method.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide an opening and closing device, which allows the hatch to open according to each of the three “push-to- open”, “pull-to-open” and “automatic opening” methods.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a solution which allows the spontaneous and automatic opening of the hatch, for example, on completion of the wash cycle or nonetheless by means of a program, which can be set by the user. Lastly, the opening and closing device and/or system according to the present invention should be characterized by a contained size and overall volume, structural simplicity, contained manufacturing costs and high reliability, as well as by being applicable to household appliances of the known type according to equally simple methods and with equally contained costs, without needing substantial changes to said household appliances. DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
The present invention is based on the general consideration according to which it is possible to achieve the above objects and, in particular, manage the functional and reliability needs by means of a device comprising a locking lever having the purpose of engaging and locking the opening and closing element or wheel in the closing position, wherein, with the opening and closing wheel locked in the closing position by the locking lever, each of the thrust and traction actions exerted by the user on the hatch results in the mutual disengagement of the opening and closing wheel and the locking lever.
Based on the above considerations, as well as in view of the problems and/or drawbacks found in the opening and closing devices and/or systems according to the prior art, according to a first embodiment, the present invention relates to an opening and closing device (1000) for doors and/or hatches and/or similar components, in particular, of household appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, cooking ovens, fridges and similar household appliances, said device comprising an opening and closing assembly (100) comprising an opening and closing element (8) adapted to be engaged and disengaged alternatively by a backing pin (3) adapted to be rigidly fixed to one said hatch or door, wherein said opening and closing element (8) can be rotationally switched about a first rotation axis (A) in a first rotation direction from a first position to a second position and in a second rotation direction opposite to said first rotation direction from said second position to said first position, wherein the mutual thrust engagement of said backing pin (3) against said opening and closing element (8) results in a first rotational switching of said opening and closing element (8) from said first position to said second position, in which said backing pin (3) is retained by said opening and closing element (8), wherein said opening and closing assembly (100) comprises a locking lever (9), which can be switched between a first position thereof and a second position thereof, and wherein the rotational switching of said opening and closing element (8) about said first rotation axis (A) from said first position to said second position results in the switching of said locking lever (9) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof, in which it engages and locks said opening and closing element (8); wherein, with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever (9), the rotation of said opening and closing element (8) in said first rotation direction beyond said second position results in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9), wherein, with said opening and closing element
(8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever (9), the rotation of said opening and closing element (8) in said second rotation direction from said second position to said first position results in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9), and wherein, with said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9) mutually disengaged said opening and closing element (8) is free to be switched into said second position, in which it releases said backing pin (3).
According to an embodiment, said locking lever (9) can be rotationally switched about a second rotation axis (B) parallel to said first rotation axis (A), wherein the rotational switching of said opening and closing element (8) about said first rotation axis (A) from said first position to said second position results in the rotational switching about said second rotation axis (B) of said locking lever (9) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof, in which it engages and locks said opening and closing element (8) in said second closing position.
According to an embodiment, said locking lever (9) has a first backing, where said opening and closing element (8) has a second backing (18), wherein the rotational switching of said opening and closing element (8) about said first rotation axis (A) from said first position to said second position results in the mutual engagement of said first backing and second backing (18) and in the rotational switching about said second rotation axis (B) of said locking lever (9) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof, in which it engages and locks said opening and closing element (8) in said second closing position, and wherein, with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever
(9), the rotation of said opening and closing element (8) in said first rotation direction beyond said second position results in the mutual disengagement of said first backing and second backing (18), and thus in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9).
According to an embodiment, said locking lever (9) can also be switched translationally onto a plane perpendicular to said first rotation axis (A) and rotationally about a third rotation axis (C) which lies on said plane, wherein, with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever (9), the rotation of said opening and closing element (8) in said second rotation direction from said second position to said first position results in the switching of said locking lever (9) translationally onto said plane and rotationally about said third rotation axis (C) and in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9), and wherein, with said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9) mutually disengaged, said opening and closing element (8) is free to be switched to said second position, in which it releases said backing pin (3).
According to an embodiment, said locking lever (9) has a third backing, wherein said opening and closing assembly (100) has a fourth backing (18), wherein, with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever (9), the rotation of said opening and closing element (8) in said second rotation direction from said second position to said first position results in the mutual engagement of said third backing and fourth backing and in the switching of said locking lever (9) translationally onto said plane and rotationally about said third rotation axis (C), and thus in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9).
According to an embodiment, said device comprises a switching slide (16), which is translatable between a first position thereof and a second position thereof, wherein the translation of said switching slide (116) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof results in the rotational switching about said third rotation axis (C) of said locking lever (9) and thus in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9).
According to an embodiment, said locking lever (9) has a fifth backing, wherein said switching slide (16) has a sixth backing, wherein the translation of said switching slide (16) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof results in the mutual engagement of said fifth backing and sixth backing, and thus in the rotational switching about said third rotation axis (C) of said locking lever (9) and in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9).
According to an embodiment, said device (1000) comprises electrical means for translating said switching slide (16).
According to an embodiment, said opening and closing assembly (100) comprises a switching lever which can be rotationally switched about a fourth rotation axis (D) between a first position thereof and a second position thereof, wherein, with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked by said locking lever (9) in said second position, the rotational switching about said fourth rotation axis (D) of said switching lever results in the rotational switching of said locking lever (9) about said third rotation axis (C) and in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and said locking lever (9).
According to an embodiment, said switching lever is adapted to be rotationally switched about said fourth rotation axis (D) between said first position thereof and said second position thereof when thrust engaged by means of an accessory tongue-shaped thrust element. According to an embodiment, said device (1000) comprises a module provided with LED lights, wherein the rotational switching about said first rotation axis (A) of said opening and closing element (8) from said second position to said first position results in the electrical activation of said LED lights.
The present invention also relates to a household appliance (2000), such as a washing machine, a dishwasher, a cooking oven, fridge or similar household appliance, said household appliance comprising a main body defining a treatment chamber comprising an access opening and a door or hatch, which can be rotationally switched between a first opening position, in which it allows accessing said treatment chamber through said access opening, and a second closing position, in which said access opening is closed by said door or hatch, wherein said household appliance (1000) comprises an opening and closing device applied to said main body and a backing pin (3) fixed to said door or hatch, wherein said opening and closing device (1000) is a device (1000) according to one of the embodiments of the present invention, wherein the rotational switching of said door or hatch from said opening position to said closing position results in the engagement of said opening and closing element (8) by said backing pin (3), and thus in the rotational switching about said first rotation axis (A) of said opening and closing element (8) from said first position to said second position, in which said backing pin (3) is retained by said opening and closing element (8).
According to an embodiment, said access opening is delimited by a front crosspiece, wherein said opening and closing device (1000) is arranged in a housing obtained in said front crosspiece.
According to an embodiment, said door or hatch can be rotationally switched about a substantially horizontal rotation axis thereof, wherein, with said door or hatch in said closing position, said backing pin (13) is oriented in a substantially vertical direction.
According to an embodiment, said household appliance is a dishwasher, wherein the rotation axis of said door or hatch, with said dishwasher in the working or operating position, is located close to the floor or ground.
The present invention also relates to an opening and closing system for doors and/or hatches and/or similar components, in particular of household appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers and similar household appliances comprising a main body defining a treatment chamber comprising an access opening and a door or hatch, which can be rotationally switched between a first opening position, in which it allows accessing said treatment chamber through said access opening, and a second closing position, in which said access opening is closed by said door or hatch, said system comprising an opening and closing device adapted to be fixed to the main body of one said household appliance and a backing pin (3) adapted to be fixed rigidly to a hatch or door of one said household appliance, wherein said device is a device according to one of the embodiments of the present invention. Further possible embodiments of the present invention are defined in the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Hereinafter, the present invention will be further clarified by means of the following detailed description of the possible embodiments shown in the drawings, in which corresponding or equivalent features and/or component parts of the present invention are identified by the same reference numerals. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below and shown in the accompanying drawings; on the contrary, all the variants and/or changes to the embodiments described below and shown in the accompanying drawings, which will appear clear and obvious to those skilled in the art, are within the scope of the present invention.
The present invention finds particularly advantageous application in household appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, cooking ovens and similar household appliances, this being the reason for which the present invention will be clarified hereinafter with reference to the use thereof in a dishwasher. However, it should be noted that the possible applications of the present invention are not limited to dishwashers, washing machines, ovens, fridges, and similar household appliances; on the contrary, the present invention is adapted to be used just as conveniently in furniture with a hatch, such as, for example, fitted kitchen furniture, and nonetheless in all cases, in which access to a space is regulated by means of the opening and closing of a door or hatch.
In the drawings:
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a household appliance provided with an opening and closing system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 shows perspective views of the device according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figures 3 to 6 show perspective views of component parts of the device and system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figures 7 to 9 show perspective and plan views of the device and system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figures 10 to 13 show perspective and lateral views of component parts of the device and system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figures 14 to 17 show perspective and plan views of further component parts of the device and system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figures 18 to 21 show perspective and lateral views of further component parts of the device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figures 22 and 23 show perspective and lateral views of further component parts of the device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION The present invention finds particular application in the field of dishwashers, this being the reason why the present invention will be described hereinafter with particular reference to the applications thereof in the field of dishwashers.
However, it should be noted that the possible applications of the present invention are not limited to those described below. On the contrary, the present invention also finds advantageous application in the case of household appliances, such as washing machines, dryers, and similar household appliances, as well as in all cases in which a reliable, simple, and safe opening and closing is required and according to different methods (see previous description) of a hatch.
In figures 1 to 3, reference numeral 2000 identifies a dishwasher; as depicted, the dishwasher 2000 comprises a main body 5 defining a front opening for accessing a treatment tub or chamber (wash) inside the main body 5. Access to the chamber by means of the front opening is regulated by means of a hatch 50, which can be rotationally switched (see the double arrow) about a horizontal rotation axis (with the dishwasher in the use position) and positioned at the bottom, i.e. close to the floor or support plane of the dishwasher 2000. In particular, the hatch 50 can be rotationally switched between a closing position (shown in figure 1 ), in which it isolates the wash chamber from the outside, and an opening position (not shown), in which it allows accessing the washing chamber. The dishwasher 2000 is provided with an opening and closing system comprising an opening and closing device 1000 housed in a cavity obtained in an upper crosspiece 2 of the body 5, and a backing pin or latch 3 fixed to the upper edge (opposite to the rotation axis) of the hatch 50. The switching of the hatch 50 from the opening position to the closing position results in the engagement of the device 1000 by the latch 3, in particular, in the locking of the latch 3 by the device 1000, and thus, of the hatch 50 in the closing position (in which the wash program can be started), according to the methods describe hereinafter with reference to figures 2 to 6.
As depicted, the device 1000 (optionally defined hereinafter as lock) consists of a support 6 in which there are housed: two sheets 11 and a cursor or slider 10 adapted to provide (see the following description) the door open or closed signal; a “IG- shaped opening and closing element or wheel 8, a first coil spring 14, the function of which is to push the wheel 8 towards the opening position (see the following description); a solenoid assembly 15 and a solenoid slide 16 with relative second spring 17 the function of which is to automatically open the hatch at the end of the wash (see the following description); a locking lever 9, a spring cap 12 and a third spring 13, the function of said third spring 13 being to act on thrust and rotation on the lever 9 (see the following description). Lastly, reference numeral 7 identifies a cover 7 adapted to close the support 6 protecting the components of the lock 1000 from dust and water.
The opening and closing element 8 (as anticipated also referred to as said opening and closing cam or wheel) can be rotationally switched about a first rotation axis A, defined by a rotation pin onto which there is engaged the spiral portion of the spring 14, where the locking lever 9 is rotatable about a second rotation axis B parallel to said first rotation axis B, where the locking lever 9 can further be translated onto a plane perpendicular to said first rotation axis A and second rotation axis B, and rotationally switchable about a third rotation axis C, which lies on a plane parallel to said translation plane.
When the hatch is open, the wheel 8 is positioned in the opening position in figure 2 with the opening of the U-shaped portion facing outwards; during the closing of the hatch, first, the backing pin 3 is brought close to the wheel 8 until it is housed in the U-shaped portion of the wheel 8; by continuing the closing until the hatch is positioned in the final closing position, the pin 3 engages the wheel 8 causing it to rotate in a first rotation direction about the axis A (anti-clockwise with respect to figure 2 and against the elastic resistance of the spring 14) until switching it into the final closing position in figure 6, in which it retains the backing pin 3 and thus keeps the hatch 50 in the closing position.
Furthermore, the switching of the wheel 8 from the opening position (figure 2) to the closing position (figure 6), results in the dragging and, in particular, the rotational switching about the axis B (clockwise with respect to figure 2 and against the elastic resistance of the spring 13) of the locking lever 9 from the first initial position thereof (figure 2) to the second final position thereof (figure 6). To this end, the lever 9 has a backing 90 protruding from the surface of the lever 9 facing towards the wheel 8, where the wheel 8 is provided with a latch or backing 18 (figure 3) extending parallel to the rotation axes A and B, and where the rotational switching of the wheel 8 from the opening position to the closing position results in the mutual engagement of the backings 90 and 18, and thus, in the rotational switching about the axis B of the lever 9 from the initial position to the final position. Furthermore, the backings 90 and 18 are shaped so as to be mutually engaged also with the lever 9 in the final position in figure 6, in particular, so as to lock the wheel 8 in the closing position, preventing the automatic rotation thereof in a second rotation direction (clockwise with respect to the figures) opposite to said first rotation direction, from the closing position into the opening position under the elastic thrust of the spring 14 and thus preventing the accidental opening of the hatch. In fact, the opening of the hatch 50 is only possible by mutually disengaging the locking lever 9 and the wheel 8, in particular, the respective backings 90 and 18, so as to allow the wheel 8 to switch, due to the elastic thrust of the spring 14, into the opening position, in which it releases the pin 3 and thus the hatch 50.
As anticipated, according to the present invention, the mutual releasing of the lever 9 and of the wheel 8 is possible according to multiple, different methods described below.
One first said “push-to-open” method is shown in figures 7 to 9; as shown in figure 8, in the hatch closed position, in which the wheel 8 is locked by the lever 9 in the closing position and the lever 9 is in the second position thereof, the backing latch 18 is positioned between a first arch-shaped portion 91 of the backing 90, and a second portion 92 of the backing 90. Thus, the latch is practically imprisoned between portions 91 and 92 of the backing 90, and the switching of the wheel 8 towards the opening position is prevented by the contrast between the latch 18 and the portions 91 and 92 of the lever 9, the latter being kept in the second position (locking) in figure 8 by the elastic force of the spring 13.
The conformation of the portions 91 and 92 of the backing 90 is such that, with the wheel 8 locked in the closing position by the lever 9, a further rotation of the wheel 8 in the first rotation direction (anti-clockwise with respect to the figures) beyond the closing position, results in the mutual release of the latch 18 and the backings 91 and 92; basically, the rotation of the wheel 8 beyond the closing position occurs without any further rotation of the lever 9. On the contrary, the latch comes out of the space between the backings 91 and 92. With the latch 18 released from the backings 91 and 92, due to the action of the spring 13, the lever 9 switches by rotating (anti-clockwise with respect to the figures) from the second locking position to the first position, where, at the same time, the wheel 8, released by the lever 9, switches by rotating (clockwise with respect to the figures), under the action of the spring 14, from the second closing position to the first opening position, in which it expels the backing pin 3 from the U-shaped portion, thus opening the hatch 50. Clearly, the rotation of the wheel 8 in the first rotation direction and beyond the second closing position can be obtained by a user exerting a thrust against the closed hatch 50; in this regard, it must be remembered that such thrust is possible due to the play of the hatch in the closed position, said play being due, for example, to the seal arranged between the hatch 50 and the main body 5 of the dishwasher, thus, where, the thrust on the hatch by the user results in an advancing of the backing pin 3, which results, in turn, in the previously described rotation of the wheel
8 in the first rotation direction and beyond the second closing position.
A second said “automatic opening” method is shown in figures 10 to 13; as shown in figure 10, the device 1000 comprises a slide 16 adapted to be translated by means of a solenoid, where the translation of the slide 16 in a first translation direction (from right to left with respect to the figures) is due to the traction action exerted by the solenoid and occurs against the elastic resistance of the spring 17, while the translation of the slide 16 in a second translation direction opposite to the first (from left to right with respect to the figures) is due to the thrust by the spring 17 in the absence of traction by the solenoid 15.
Furthermore, the slide 16 has, on the upper face thereof (facing towards the locking lever 9) a backing 160, which defines an inclined plane 162; furthermore, the lever
9 also has, on the face facing towards the slide 16, a terminal backing 93 defining an inclined plane 94 thereof. With the locking lever 9 in the second locking position, the mutual position of the backings 160 and 93 is that shown in figure 12.
Thus, it is apparent that with the lever 9 and the slide 16 positioned as in figure 12, the translation of the slide 16 into the first translation direction indicated by the arrow results in the engagement of the backing 93 by the backing 160, in particular, of the inclined plane 94 by the inclined plane 162; the result is a rotation of the lever 9 (see the arrow in figure 13) about the rotation axis B, and thus, the release of the backings 91 and 92 of the lever 9 from the latch 18. At this point, due to the action of the spring 13, the lever 9 switches by rotating (anti-clockwise with respect to the figures 7 to 9) from the second locking position to the first release position, where, at the same time, the wheel 8, released by the lever 9, switches by rotating (clockwise with respect to the figures 7 to 9), under the action of the spring 14, from the second closing position to the first opening position, in which it expels the backing pin 3 from the U-shaped portion, thereby opening the hatch 50.
Obviously, the traction on the slide 16 by the solenoid 15 takes place by electrically powering the solenoid 15, the power supply of the solenoid 15 being possible, in particular, for example, due to a wash end signal generated by a control unit of the dishwasher; in particular, according to the present invention, said cycle or wash end signal ultimately results in the power supply of the solenoid 15. Alternatively, the solenoid 15 can be activated by means of pressure by a user on a key, on a pushbutton panel or a control panel of the dishwasher.
With regard to the sheets 11 , it must be specified that the translation of the cursor 10, in response to the thrust by the pin 3 at the time of the hatch closing, results in the closing of the electrical circuit between said sheets 11 and in the generation of a “closed hatch” signal, which allows the wash cycle to start.
A third method, said “pull-to-open” method, is shown in the figures 14 to 17.
As shown in figure 15, the lever 9 comprises a further backing 95 defining an inclined plane 96; furthermore, the support 6 of the device 1000 also comprises a backing 60 thereof. With the locking lever 9 in the second locking position, the mutual position of the backings 95 and 60 is the one shown in figure 16.
Thus, it is apparent that with the lever 9 positioned as in figure 16, a rotation of the wheel 8 about the rotation axis A, and therefore, in the second rotation direction, from the closing position to the opening position (said rotation deriving, e.g. from a traction exerted by a user on the hatch 50 and aimed at opening the hatch) results in a thrust by the latch 18 on the backings 91 and 92 of the lever 9, and thus in a translation of the lever 9 (from left to right with respect to the figures, see the arrow in figure 16), and of the engagement of the backing 60 by the inclined plane 96 of the backing 60, with the consequent rotation of the lever 9 clockwise (with respect to the figures, see the arrow in figure 16) about the rotation axis B and the release of the backings 91 and 92 by the latch 18. In this case, too, said translation and rotation of the lever 9 about the rotation axis B take place against the resistance exerted by the spring 13. At this point, due to the action of the spring 13, the lever 9 switches by translating from right to left (with respect to the figures) and by rotating clockwise (again with respect to the figures) under the thrust of the spring 13 from the second locking position to the first release position, where at the same time, the wheel 8, released by the lever 9, switches by rotating (clockwise with respect to the figures 7 to 9), under the action of the spring 14, from the second closing position to the first opening position, in which it expels the backing pin 3 from the U-shaped portion, thereby opening the hatch 50.
A further method of opening the hatch 50 by means of an accessory is shown in the figures 18 to 21. Said method represents a variant of the “push-to-open” method, and as shown, comprises the use of a rigid tongue-shaped accessory 19 with a tapered handle 190. The tongue 19 is housed in the support 6 with the handle positioned outside the support 6 and therefore adapted to be gripped by a user and pushed towards the inside of the support 6. An L-shaped lever 20 is also housed in the support 6 and adapted to be rotated, against the elastic resistance of a spring 21 , about a rotation axis D, which passes through the top of the L and lies on a plane parallel to the plane on which the rotation axis C of the locking lever 9 lies, the axis D and the axis C being substantially mutually perpendicular. As shown, a branch 200 of the L is positioned facing the end of the tongue 19, opposite to the handle 190, where a thrust on the tongue 19 towards the inside of the support 6 (of the device 1000) results in a rotation of the lever 20 clockwise (with respect, for example, to figure 19, also see the arrow in figure 21 ) about the rotation axis D. Whereas, the second branch 201 of the lever 20, with the locking lever 9 in the second locking position thereof, is positioned beneath the locking lever 9. Thus, it can be seen that the rotation of the lever 20 induced by the thrust by the tongue 19, results in an upward thrust by the lever 20 against the locking lever 9, and therefore, in the lifting and/or rotation about the axis C of the locking lever 9. As in the case of the previously-described “push-to-open” method, the lifting and/or rotation of the locking lever 9 about the axis C result in the release of the backings 91 and 92 by the latch 18. Thus, due to the action of the spring 13, the lever 9 switches by translating from right to left (with respect to the figures) and by rotating clockwise (again with respect to the figures) about the axis C under the thrust of the spring 13 from the second locking position to the first release position, where, at the same time, the wheel 8, released by the lever 9, switches by rotating (clockwise with respect to the figures 7 to 9), under the action of the spring 14, from the second closing position to the first opening position, in which it expels the backing pin 3 from the U-shaped portion, thereby opening the hatch 50.
Further features of the device 1000 according to the present invention are shown in figures 22 and 23.
According to the embodiment shown herein, in fact, the device 1000 comprises a module 30 provided with LED lights 32 oriented so as to light up the tub or wash chamber, the module 30 being fixed to the support 6 by means of mechanical clips 31 or alternative solutions (screws, glue, etc.) known per se and therefore not described in detail. With the device 1000 applied to the dishwasher, the LED lights 31 are inserted in the circuit of the dishwasher itself so that the opening of the hatch 50 and the generation of the relative open hatch signal result in the power supply and thus, in the switching on of the LED lights 31 and thus, in the automatic lighting up of the inside of the tub or wash chamber.
Thus, by means of the detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention shown in the drawings, it has been shown that the present invention allows achieving the desired objects and overcoming, or at least limiting, the drawbacks found in the prior part.
In particular, an opening and closing device is provided by means of the present invention, which allows the backing pin 3 to be released from the wheel 8 and therefore, the opening of the hatch 50 by means of at least two different methods, in particular, by means of at least the “Push-to-open” method and the “pull-to-open” method. The device according to an embodiment of the present invention further allows the backing pin 3 to be automatically released from the wheel 8 and thus, the hatch to be automatically opened, e.g. at the end of the wash cycle.
Lastly, the opening and closing system and/or device according to the present invention is characterized by a contained size and overall volume, as well as by being applicable to household appliances of known type according to simple methods and contained costs, besides not requiring substantial changes to said household appliances.
Although the present invention is clarified above by means of the detailed description of the embodiments thereof depicted in the drawings, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described and depicted in the drawings; on the contrary, all the variants and/or changes to the embodiments described and shown in the accompanying drawings, which will appear clear and obvious to those skilled in the art, are within the scope of the present invention. For example, according to variants, the device according to the present invention can implement only the features adapted to allow the thrust or traction opening on the hatch or only the features adapted to allow the automatic opening of the hatch.
Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A device (1000) for opening and closing doors and/or hatches and/or similar components, in particular of household appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, fridges, cooking ovens and similar household appliances, said device comprising an opening and closing assembly (100), comprising an opening and closing element (8) adapted to be engaged and disengaged alternately by a backing pin (3) adapted to be fixed rigidly to one said hatch or door, wherein said opening and closing element (8) can be rotationally switched about a first rotation axis (A) in a first rotation direction from a first position to a second position and in a second rotation direction, opposite to said first rotation direction, from said second position to said first position, wherein the mutual thrust engagement of said backing pin (3) against said opening and closing element (8) results in a first rotational switching of said opening and closing element (8) from said first position to said second position in which said backing pin (3) is retained by said opening and closing element (8), wherein said opening and closing assembly (100) comprises a locking lever (9) which can be switched between a first position thereof and a second position thereof, and wherein the rotational switching of said opening and closing element (8) about said first rotation axis (A) from said first position to said second position results in the switching of said locking lever (9) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof in which it engages and locks said opening and closing element (8); characterized in that, with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever (9), the rotation of said opening and closing element (8) in said first rotation direction beyond said second position results in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9), in that, with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever (9), the rotation of said opening and closing element (8) in said second rotation direction from said second position to said first position results in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element ((8) and locking lever (9), and in that, with said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9) mutually disengaged, said opening and closing element (8) is free to be switched to said second position in which it releases said backing pin (3).
2. A device (1000) according to claim 1 , characterized in that said locking lever (9) can be rotationally switched about a second rotation axis (B) parallel to said first rotation axis (A), in that the rotational switching of said opening and closing element (8) about said first rotation axis (A) from said first position to said second position results in the rotational switching about said second rotation axis (B) of said locking lever (9) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof in which it engages and locks said opening and closing element (8) in said second closing position.
3. A device (1000) according to claim 2, characterized in that said locking lever (9) has a first backing, in that said opening and closing element (8) has a second backing (18), in that the rotational switching of said opening and closing element
(8) about said first rotation axis (A) from said first position to said second position results in the mutual engagement of said first backing and second backing (18) and in the rotational switching about said second rotation axis (B) of said locking lever (9) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof in which it engages and locks said opening and closing element (8) in said second closing position, and in that, with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever (9), the rotation of said opening and closing element (8) in said first rotation direction beyond said second position results in the mutual disengagement of said first backing and second backing (18), and thus in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing elements (8) and locking lever (9).
4. A device (1000) according to one of claims 2 to 3, characterized in that said locking lever (9) can also be switched translationally onto a plane perpendicular to said first rotation axis (A) and rotationally about a third rotation axis (C) which lies on said plane, in that with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever (9), the rotation of said opening and closing element (8) in said second rotation direction from said second position to said first position results in the switching of said locking lever
(9) translationally onto said plane and rotationally about said third rotation axis (C) and in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9), and in that with said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9) mutually disengaged, said opening and closing element (8) is free to be switched to said second position in which it releases said backing pin (3).
5. A device (1000) according to claim 4, characterized in that said locking lever (9) has a third backing, in that said opening and closing assembly (100) has a fourth backing (18), in that with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked in said second position by said locking lever (9), the rotation of said opening and closing element (8) in said second rotation direction from said second position to said first position results in the mutual engagement of said third backing and fourth backing and in the switching of said locking lever (9) translationally onto said plane and rotationally about said third rotation axis (C), and thus in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9).
6. A device (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it comprises a switching slide (16) which is translatable between a first position thereof and a second position thereof, and in that the translation of said switching slide (116) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof results in the rotational switching about said third rotation axis (C) of said locking lever (9) and thus in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9).
7. A device (1000) according to claim 6, characterized in that said locking lever (9) has a fifth backing, in that said switching slide (16) has a sixth backing, in that the translation of said switching slide (16) from said first position thereof to said second position thereof results in the mutual engagement of said fifth backing and sixth backing, and thus in the rotational switching about said third rotation axis (C) of said locking lever (9) and in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and locking lever (9). 8. A device (1000) according to claim 7, characterized in that said device (1000) comprises electrical means for the translation of said switching slide (16). 9. A device (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 8, characterized in that said opening and closing assembly (100) comprises a switching lever which can be rotationally switched about a fourth rotation axis (D) between a first position thereof and a second position thereof, and in that, with said opening and closing element (8) engaged and locked by said locking lever (9) in said second position, the rotational switching about said fourth rotation axis (D) of said switching lever results in the rotational switching of said locking lever (9) about said third rotation axis (C) and in the mutual disengagement of said opening and closing element (8) and said locking lever (9).
10. A device according to claim 9, characterized in that said switching lever is adapted to be rotationally switched about said fourth rotation axis (D) between said first position thereof and said second position thereof when thrust engaged by means of a thrust element. 11. A device (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that said device (1000) comprises a module provided with LED lights, and in that the rotational switching about said first rotation axis (A) of said opening and closing element (8) from said second position to said first position results in the electrical activation of said LED lights. 12. A household appliance (2000) such as a washing machine, a dishwasher, a fridge and a cooking oven or similar household appliance, said household appliance comprising a main body defining a treatment chamber comprising an access opening and a door or hatch which can be rotationally switched between a first opening position, in which it allows accessing said treatment chamber through said access opening, and a second closing position in which said access opening is closed by said door or hatch, wherein said household appliance (1000) comprises an opening and closing device applied to said main body and a backing pin (3) fixed to said door or hatch, characterized in that said opening and closing device (1000) is a device (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 11 , and in that the rotational switching of said door or hatch from said opening position to said closing position results in the engagement of said opening and closing element (8) by said backing pin (3), and thus in the rotational switching about said first rotation axis (A) of said opening and closing element (8) from said first position to said second position in which said backing pin (3) is retained by said opening and closing element (8).
13. A household appliance (2000) according to claim 12, characterized in that said access opening is delimited by a front crosspiece and in that said opening and closing device (1000) is arranged in a housing obtained in said front crosspiece.
14. A household appliance (2000) according to claim 13, characterized in that said door or hatch can be rotationally switched about a substantially horizontal rotation axis thereof , and in that with said door or hatch in said closing position, said backing pin (13) is oriented in a substantially vertical direction.
15. A household appliance (2000) according to claim 14, characterized in that said household appliance is a dishwasher, and in that the rotation axis of said door or hatch, with said dishwasher in the working or operating position, is located close to the floor or ground. 16. An opening and closing system for doors and/or hatches and/or similar components, in particular of household appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers and similar household appliances comprising a main body defining a treatment chamber comprising an access opening and a door or hatch which can be rotationally switched between a first opening position, in which it allows accessing said treatment chamber through said access opening, and a second closing position in which said access opening is closed by said door or hatch, said system comprising an opening and closing device adapted to be fixed to the main body of one said household appliance and a backing pin (3) adapted to be fixed rigidly to a hatch or door of one said household appliance characterized in that said device is a device according to one of claims 1 to 11 .
PCT/IB2021/054031 2020-05-13 2021-05-12 A device for closing and opening hatches, in particular hatches of household appliances, such as dishwashers or the like WO2021229456A1 (en)

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IT102020000010906A IT202000010906A1 (en) 2020-05-13 2020-05-13 DEVICE FOR CLOSING AND OPENING DOORS, IN PARTICULAR DOORS OF HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES SUCH AS DISHWASHERS OR SIMILAR
IT102020000010906 2020-05-13

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2024028787A1 (en) * 2022-08-03 2024-02-08 Elettrotecnica Rold Srl Space-saving device with automatic opening function for opening and closing a dishwasher door

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EP3312333A1 (en) * 2016-10-20 2018-04-25 Bitron S.p.A. Improved dual push door-lock device
US20190017216A1 (en) * 2017-07-13 2019-01-17 Emz-Hanauer Gmbh & Co. Kgaa Overlifting door latch with locking mechanism
WO2019049057A1 (en) * 2017-09-06 2019-03-14 Elettrotecnica Rold S.R.L. Device for closing and opening hatches, in particular hatches of domestic appliances such as washing machines or the like
US20190219269A1 (en) * 2018-01-18 2019-07-18 Hti Technology And Industries, Inc. Push-to-Open/Signal-to-Open Appliance Door Latching System with an Integrated Locking Device

Patent Citations (4)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3312333A1 (en) * 2016-10-20 2018-04-25 Bitron S.p.A. Improved dual push door-lock device
US20190017216A1 (en) * 2017-07-13 2019-01-17 Emz-Hanauer Gmbh & Co. Kgaa Overlifting door latch with locking mechanism
WO2019049057A1 (en) * 2017-09-06 2019-03-14 Elettrotecnica Rold S.R.L. Device for closing and opening hatches, in particular hatches of domestic appliances such as washing machines or the like
US20190219269A1 (en) * 2018-01-18 2019-07-18 Hti Technology And Industries, Inc. Push-to-Open/Signal-to-Open Appliance Door Latching System with an Integrated Locking Device

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2024028787A1 (en) * 2022-08-03 2024-02-08 Elettrotecnica Rold Srl Space-saving device with automatic opening function for opening and closing a dishwasher door

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