Temperature controlled dishwasher agent dispenser

Abstract

A dishwasher dispenses dishwashing agent to form a dishwashing liquid containing water and dishwashing agent, and controls an amount of dishwashing agent to dispense based on a sensed temperature indicative of a temperature of the dishwashing liquid. In various examples, the dish detergent may include a detergent and / or a rinse aid. In various examples, the dishwasher dispenses the detergent during a wash cycle and the rinse aid during a rinse cycle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to warewashing machines, and more particularly to methods and apparatus for controlling the dispensing of dishwashing detergent into liquid in a washing machine, such as a dishwasher, based on the temperature of the liquid. Background Art

[0002] Dishwasher, also known as dishwashing machine or dishwashing machine, is a machine for automatically cleaning articles such as dishes, trays, laboratory equipment, tableware and kitchen utensils. A batch of articles to be cleaned (such as dishes) can be loaded into the dishwasher to clean in a cleaning cycle that includes a wash cycle and a rinse cycle. During the wash cycle, a cleaning mixture formed by water and dishwasher detergent is sprayed into the loaded dishwasher to spray the dishes. The cleaning mixture is then discharged before the rinse cycle begins. During the rinse cycle, water or a rinse mixture formed by water and rinse agent is sprayed into the loaded dishwasher to remove the residue of the cleaning mixture. After the rinse cycle is completed and the rinse water is discharged, air and / or heat can be optionally used to dry the dishes during the drying cycle. The dishwasher can have various user-selectable settings for each cleaning cycle. These settings can define, for example, the repetition of each in time, temperature and washing, rinsing and drying cycles. These settings can also allow the user to select which cycles to include (for example, only rinsing, only drying, rinsing and drying, or washing and rinsing without drying).

[0003] Ordinary household dishwashers are under-counter units designed to be installed under the kitchen counter. Other types of dishwashers include industrial or commercial dishwashers used in restaurants, hotels, and other commercial establishments with food service. The dishwasher detergents used in these dishwashers may include chemicals that can clean, disinfect, and / or reduce the surface tension of water (and therefore reduce water spots on the dishes). Such dishwasher detergents are made in various solid and liquid forms. The effectiveness and efficiency of dishwashing can depend on the concentration of the dishwasher detergent in the cleaning mixture and the temperature of the cleaning mixture. For example, low concentrations can result in incomplete removal of food waste from the washed dishes, and high concentrations can unnecessarily increase the cost of dishwashing and / or leave detergent residues on the washed dishes, while the optimal concentration or range of concentrations depends on the chemical properties of the dishwasher detergent, which can be a function of temperature. Summary of the Invention

[0004] A dishwasher dispenses dishwashing detergent to form a dishwashing liquor comprising water and dishwashing detergent, and controls the amount of dishwashing detergent to be dispensed based on a sensed temperature indicative of the temperature of the dishwashing liquor. In various examples, the dishwashing detergent may include detergent and / or rinse aid. In various examples, the dishwasher dispenses detergent during a wash cycle and rinse aid during a rinse cycle.

[0005] An example of a dishwasher is provided. The dishwasher can be configured to perform cleaning cycles that each include a wash cycle and a rinse cycle for cleaning items. The dishwasher can include a tank, a temperature sensor, a detergent dispenser, and a dispenser controller. The tank can be configured to receive water and dishwashing detergent to form a liquid containing the received water and the received dishwashing detergent. The liquid is to be applied to the items. The temperature sensor can be configured to be placed in the tank to sense the temperature of the liquid. The detergent dispenser can be configured to dispense the dishwashing detergent into the liquid, receive a distribution signal indicating the amount of dishwashing detergent to be distributed, and control the distribution of the dishwashing detergent based on the amount. The dispenser controller can be configured to receive the sensed temperature from the temperature sensor and generate a distribution signal based on the temperature. The dishwashing detergent can include detergent, rinse aid, and / or any chemical or any combination of chemicals distributed during the cleaning cycle of the dishwasher.

[0006] An example method for operating a dishwasher is also provided. The dishwasher can be configured to perform cleaning cycles that each include a wash cycle and a rinse cycle for cleaning items. The method can include sensing a temperature of liquid in a tank, the liquid comprising at least water; using the sensed temperature to generate a dispensing signal indicating an amount of dishwashing detergent to be dispensed; dispensing the dishwashing detergent into the liquid; using the dispensing signal to control the amount of dishwashing detergent dispensed into the liquid; and spraying the liquid onto the items after dispensing the dishwashing detergent into the liquid. The dishwashing detergent can include detergent, rinse aid, and / or any chemical or any combination of chemicals dispensed during a cleaning cycle of the dishwasher.

[0007] This summary is an overview of some of the teachings of this application and is not an exclusive or exhaustive discussion of the subject matter. Further details about this subject matter are provided in the detailed description and the appended claims. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The accompanying drawings generally illustrate various embodiments discussed in the present disclosure by way of example. The drawings are for illustration purposes only and may not be drawn to scale.

[0009] Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B 、 Figure 1C and Figure 1D is a diagram of an embodiment of a dishwasher, wherein Figure 1A shows a front view, Figure 1B shows a side view of the dishwasher with the hood closed, Figure 1C shows a side view with the hood open, and Figure 1D A top view is shown.

[0010] Figure 2 is an example with attachments Figures 1A to 1D Illustration of an embodiment of a dishwasher.

[0011] Figure 3 yes Figures 1A to 1D Illustration of an embodiment of a hydraulic system of a dishwasher.

[0012] Figure 4 An example dishwasher (such as Figures 1A to 1D Block diagram of an embodiment of a dishwashing detergent dispensing system for a dishwasher).

[0013] Figure 5 An example dishwasher (such as Figures 1A to 1D Block diagram of an embodiment of a dishwashing detergent dispensing system for a dishwasher).

[0014] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method for dispensing dishwashing detergent in a dishwasher. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] The following detailed description of the present subject matter refers to the subject matter in the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of illustration, specific aspects and embodiments in which the present subject matter may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present subject matter. References in this disclosure to "one," "an," or "various" embodiments are not necessarily references to the same embodiment, and such references contemplate multiple embodiments. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and the full scope of legal equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0016] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for dispensing detergent in a dishwasher and using temperature sensed from the dishwasher to control the dispensing. As used herein, a "dishwasher" (also referred to as a dishwashing machine, utensil washer, or warewasher) may include any type of washing machine that uses detergent for cleaning and / or disinfecting purposes in a home or commercial setting. Items to be washed in a dishwasher may include cutlery, flatware, pots and pans, cutlery, flatware, glasses, kitchen utensils, dinner plates, trays, and the like. Such items may be placed in a dishwasher rack within the dishwasher. A "dishwasher rack" (also referred to as a warewashing rack) may include any rack used in a dishwasher to hold any items to be washed. Unless otherwise specified, a "rack" in this disclosure refers to a dishwasher rack. A rack may be a built-in component of the dishwasher or a removable accessory suitable for use with the dishwasher. The rack may be a peg rack or an open rack and may have any size and shape suitable for a dishwasher. Each dishwasher may include one or more built-in racks and / or may accommodate one or more removable racks.

[0017] As used in this disclosure, a "cleaning cycle" of a dishwasher can include various operating cycles, such as one or more of a descaling cycle, a wash cycle, a rinse cycle, and a drying cycle, depending on the availability of the corresponding operating modes in the dishwasher and the settings input by the user of the dishwasher. "Cleaning" can include cleaning only, disinfection only, cleaning and disinfection, descaling and cleaning, or descaling, cleaning, and disinfection. A "descaling cycle" includes a cycle or operating mode intended for applying a descaling solution formed by water and a descaling agent to the items being cleaned. A "wash cycle" includes a cycle or operating mode intended for applying a washing solution formed by water and a detergent to the items being washed. A "rinsing cycle" includes a cycle or operating mode intended for applying water or a rinsing solution formed by water and a rinse aid and / or a disinfectant to the items being cleaned. Some dishwashers (e.g., commercial dishwashers) may include a rinse cycle primarily for disinfecting by thermal and / or chemical means. The descaling agent, detergent, rinse aid, and disinfectant can each be a chemical agent or mixture of chemicals in liquid or solid form. "Drying cycle" includes a cycle or mode of operation intended for drying cleaned items by air flow and / or heat without the application of additional water and / or chemicals.

[0018] The trend toward franchised food service businesses has created a need to downsize warehouses while maximizing floor space utilization and diversifying kitchen equipment. Stores (e.g., restaurants) may face the challenge of increasing the use of electric equipment without increasing the capacity of existing power systems. The power available to operate dishwashers (an appliance typically used in restaurants or other food service establishments) may be limited, without compromising the cleaning performance of the dishwasher.

[0019] In existing dishwashers, limited power consumption may mean that when operating continuously, the cleaning water sprayed onto the washed items cannot reach the temperature at which the dishwasher detergent has the expected cleaning power. This may in turn cause food safety and customer satisfaction issues. The operation of such existing dishwashers may require that detergent be manually added to the detergent dispenser in the dishwasher before starting each cleaning cycle. The amount of detergent can be manually controlled, so each cleaning cycle is inaccurate and inconsistent within the cleaning cycle. Excessive amounts can unnecessarily increase cleaning costs and may leave residues on the washed items. Insufficient amounts may make the items unclean. Although the cleaning power of known detergents is temperature-dependent, when manually controlled, the amount of detergent is not common and is not easy to regulate based on the water temperature in the dishwasher. This may result in inefficient utilization of the cleaning power of the detergent.

[0020] The practice in such cases involves increasing the amount of detergent dispensed for each wash load during each cleaning cycle to compensate for the reduced cleaning ability of the detergent at lower temperatures. This can involve manually increasing the amount of detergent loaded into the dishwasher's dispenser before starting each cleaning cycle when the temperature of the expected cleaning mixture is below a specified range. However, this practice has several disadvantages. First, the increased amount of detergent used increases the cost of operating the dishwasher. Second, there is a limit beyond which higher concentrations no longer improve cleaning effectiveness. In addition, increasing the concentration of detergent increases the risk of detergent residue on the items being washed.

[0021] Therefore, there is a need to automatically and intelligently control the dispensing of detergent to provide consistent cleaning results for the dishwasher in an efficient manner while taking into account the chemical properties of the detergent (including its temperature dependence). Efficiency can include ensuring the effectiveness of cleaning while maintaining or reducing the power consumption of the dishwasher.

[0022] The present subject matter may provide a dishwasher in which the amount of dispensed chemicals (e.g., detergent and / or rinse aid) is automatically and dynamically adjusted based on a temperature sensed from the dishwasher. The sensed temperature may represent or otherwise indicate the temperature of the chemicals at work. This adjustment may improve the efficiency of utilizing the cleaning power of the detergent and / or the surfactant power of the rinse aid at the instantaneous temperature. In various embodiments, an optimal concentration of the chemical can be determined based on the temperature, and the amount of the dispensed chemical can be controlled to maintain the chemical concentration near the optimal concentration for the sensed instantaneous temperature.

[0023] The present invention can be applied to dishwashers to use appropriate amounts of detergent and / or rinse aid to meet or exceed cleaning requirements at varying water temperature levels. By reducing the amount of detergent and / or rinse aid used in each cleaning cycle while ensuring cleaning effectiveness by better utilizing temperature-dependent chemical properties, the application of the present invention can reduce costs and other risks associated with using excessive detergent and / or elevated water temperatures (e.g., chemical residue and / or excessive electrical capacity).

[0024] For the present subject matter, application in a dishwasher is discussed by way of example and not limitation. The inventive system for temperature controlled dispensing of detergent and / or rinse aid may be applied to any washing machine that uses chemicals having temperature dependent properties.

[0025] Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B 、 Figure 1C and Figure 1D is a diagram of an embodiment of a dishwasher 100. Figures 1A to 1D As shown in FIG and discussed as an example for purposes of illustration and not limitation, dishwasher 100 is a hood-type dishwasher that includes a hood 102 to cover a washing chamber (also referred to as a main washing chamber) 101 during each cleaning cycle. A hood lift handle 103 can be lifted by a user to open hood 102 for loading items to be washed into washing chamber 101 before the cleaning cycle, lowered by a user to close hood 102 to cover washing chamber 101 before starting the cleaning cycle, and lifted by a user to open hood 102 for unloading the cleaned items after the cleaning cycle is complete. A hood lock 104 mounted on hood 102 automatically locks at the start of a cleaning cycle to prevent hood 102 from being accidentally opened during the cleaning cycle. Figure 1A A front view of the dishwasher 100 is shown when the hood 102 is closed. Figure 1B A side view of the dishwasher 100 is shown when the hood 102 is closed. Figure 1C A side view of the dishwasher 100 is shown when the hood 102 is open. Figure 1D A top view of dishwasher 100 is shown.

[0026] Dishwasher 100 includes a dispenser 105 that holds various chemicals for dispensing during different periods of a cleaning cycle. Each chemical can be in liquid or solid form, and dispenser 105 is configured to hold the liquid and / or solid form of each chemical, depending on the form of the chemical available and intended for use. Each chemical in dispenser 105 is refillable. In one example, dishwasher 100 can perform a cleaning cycle including a descaling cycle, a wash cycle, and a rinse cycle, and dispenser 105 is an integrated dispenser that can hold descaling agent, detergent, and rinse aid, and can dispense descaling agent for use during the descaling cycle, detergent for use during the wash cycle, and rinse aid for use during the rinse cycle.

[0027] Dishwasher 100 includes a user interface 106 that visually and / or audibly indicates the operating status of the dishwasher and allows the user to control its operation. User interface 106 may include a display screen, such as a touch screen, that displays the operating status of dishwasher 100 and receives commands and other information from the user. User interface 106 may include a power switch for the user to turn dishwasher 100 on and off. User interface 106 allows the user to optionally start the cleaning cycle after indicating to the user that the cleaning cycle is ready to begin (e.g., after closing hood 102). In one example, user interface 106 allows the user to select which cycle(s) to include in the cleaning cycle. For example, if the dishes are known to be clean but require disinfection, the user may select only the rinse cycle. The user may select the wash and rinse cycles only if no indication is given that the dishes require descaling. In another example, user interface 106 is configured (e.g., programmed) to adhere to sanitation procedures and / or comply with regulations for ensuring food safety.

[0028] Dishwasher 100 provides higher space and power efficiency to reduce operating costs and / or allow food service organizations to operate under limited space and / or power capacity. For example, dishwasher 100 includes internal wastewater recycling system 107 and internal steam reduction system 111 to recycle the heat energy generated by operation during each cleaning cycle, for heating the clean water to be used in operation. Wastewater recycling system 107 includes washing tank (also referred to as main washing tank) 108 and wastewater tank 109 (also referred to as overflow tank), which recirculates the hot washing liquid to be sprayed into washing chamber 101 and returned from washing chamber during the washing cycle, and the wastewater tank is used to receive the excess hot washing liquid as wastewater from washing tank 108. Heat exchange module is placed in wastewater tank 109 to heat clean water, while wastewater is cooled before being discharged into drain pipe (for example, drain pipe connected to the sewer of building). As needed, heated clean water is added to washing tank 108 and booster tank (also referred to as rinse tank) 110. In the illustrated example, the boost tank 110 receives clean water and a descaling agent to form a descaling solution to be sprayed into the washing chamber 101 during the descaling cycle, and receives clean water and a rinse aid to form a rinse solution to be sprayed into the washing chamber 101 during the rinse cycle. The steam reduction system 111 includes a fan 112 for drawing steam from the washing chamber 101 and a condenser 113 positioned in the steam path to condense the steam while heating the clean water (in addition to recovering heat from the waste water). The fan 112 blows the remaining steam out of the dishwasher 100.

[0029] The dishwasher 100 can be sized to allow for easy operation and maintenance by users 150 cm or taller. The force required to open the hood 102 by lifting the hood lift handle 103 can be approximately 3.5 kg or less. In one example, the wash tank 108 has a capacity of approximately 24 L, the wastewater tank 108 has a capacity of approximately 12 L, and the boost tank 110 has a capacity of approximately 10 L.

[0030] Figure 2 is a diagram of an embodiment of a dishwasher 100 having several accessories. Figure 2As shown in FIG, by way of example and not limitation, the accessories may include a dirty dish rack 220, a clean dish rack 223, a dishwasher rack 224, and an exhaust hood 225. The dirty dish rack 220 includes one or more sinks 221 and one or more faucets 222. When necessary or convenient, dishes and / or other items to be cleaned can be placed in the sink 221 and (with the hood 102 open) pre-washed using water from the faucet 222 before being loaded into the washing chamber 101. When the washing chamber 101 is empty, a rack 224 can be placed therein, and for each cleaning cycle, dishes and / or other items can be placed into the rack 224. After the cleaning cycle is complete, the rack 224 loaded with clean dishes and / or other items can be removed from the washing chamber 101 (with the hood 102 open) and placed on the clean dish rack 223 before use and / or further distribution. The exhaust hood 225 may discharge steam blown from the dishwasher 100 by the fan 112 to the outside of a building where the dishwasher 100 is placed.

[0031] Figure 3 is a diagram of an embodiment of a hydraulic system 329 of a dishwasher 100. Figure 2 As shown in , as an example for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, the hydraulic system 329 can support liquid movement functions during a descaling cycle, a wash cycle, and a rinse cycle.

[0032] The hydraulic system 329 includes a main water valve 335 (e.g., a solenoid-controlled valve) that can be opened to admit clean water from a water source (e.g., a building's water main). The clean water can be heated in the wastewater tank 109 and then directed to the wash tank 108 and the boost tank 110. When needed (e.g., for dissolving one or more chemicals in solid form), the clean water can also be directed to the dispenser 105 through the dispenser valve 336.

[0033] During the descaling cycle, the descaling agent is dispensed from the dispenser 105 into the booster tank 110 to form a descaling liquid with the heated cleaning water in the booster tank 110. The descaling liquid is pumped to the rinse arm 330 by the rinse pump 333. The rinse arm 330 is positioned above and below the washing chamber 101 and rotates to spray the descaling liquid from above and below into the washing chamber 101. After passing through the washing chamber 101, the descaling liquid flows into the wash tank 108.

[0034] During the wash cycle, detergent is dispensed from the dispenser 105 into the wash tank 108 to form a wash liquid with the heated clean water in the wash tank 108. The wash liquid is pumped by the wash pump 331 to the wash arms 332. The wash arms 332 are positioned above and below the wash chamber 101 and rotate to spray the wash liquid from above and below into the wash chamber 101. The wash liquid returns to the wash tank 108 after passing through the wash chamber 101.

[0035] During the rinse cycle, rinse aid is dispensed from the dispenser 105 into the booster tank 110 to form a rinse liquid with the heated clean water in the booster tank 110. The rinse liquid is pumped to the rinse arm 330 by the rinse pump 333. The rinse arm 330 rotates to spray the rinse liquid from above and below into the washing chamber 101. After passing through the washing chamber 101, the rinse liquid flows into the wash tank 108.

[0036] Therefore, the washing tank 108 collects all the liquid sprayed into the washing chamber 101. When the liquid level in the washing tank 108 exceeds a set threshold, the excess liquid flows into the waste water tank 109 as waste water. Figure 3 As illustrated in FIG, hydraulic system 329 includes a wastewater recirculation system that includes a drain valve 337 and two watertight or waterproof seals 338 and 339 to separate wastewater from drain water (wastewater to be discharged from dishwasher 100 to the drain). Drain pump 334 pumps drain water from the wastewater recirculation system to the drain. When drain pump 334 is off and drain valve 337 is closed, wastewater flows from wash tank 108 into wastewater tank 109, then out of wastewater tank 109 and into the drain at seal 339. When drain pump 334 is on and drain valve 337 is closed, wastewater (as pumped) flows out of wastewater tank 109, through a path including drain pump 334, and into the drain at seal 339. When drain valve 337 is open, wastewater flows directly from the wash tank to the drain (without passing through wastewater tank 109 or drain pump 334). A heat exchange coil 363 is placed in the waste water tank 109. Clean water flows through the heat exchange coil 363 to be heated by the waste water before being directed into the wash tank 109 or the boost tank 110, while the waste water is cooled by the clean water before being discharged to the drain.

[0037] Figure 44 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a dishwashing detergent dispensing system 450 for a dishwasher such as dishwasher 100. System 450 includes a tank 451, a temperature sensor 452, a detergent dispenser 453, and a dispenser controller 454. Tank 451 can receive water from a clean water source and dishwashing detergent from detergent dispenser 453 to form a liquid containing the received water and the received dishwashing detergent. The liquid is applied to the cleaned items in the dishwasher. The temperature of the water received from the clean water source can vary over a wide range (e.g., 40°C to 70°C). Temperature sensor 452 can be placed in tank 451 to sense the temperature of the liquid. Dispenser 453 can dispense dishwashing detergent into the liquid, receive a distribution signal indicating the amount of dishwashing detergent to be distributed, and control the distribution of dishwashing detergent according to the amount. Dispenser controller 454 can receive the sensed temperature from temperature sensor 452 and generate a distribution signal based on the sensed temperature.

[0038] In various embodiments, dishwashing detergent can include any chemical used in any cycle of the cleaning cycle of the dishwasher. When the chemical has a temperature-dependent characteristic, system 454 can be implemented in the dishwasher to control the dispensing of the chemical based on the temperature of the liquid to optimize the effect of the chemical at various temperatures. Examples of chemicals include descaling agents, detergents, rinse aids, or any combination thereof (e.g., "2-in-1" or "3-in-1" detergents). Although detergents and rinse aids are specifically discussed as examples of chemicals to be dispensed using system 450, the present subject matter can be applied to other one or more chemicals used in a dishwasher or other washing machine when such one or more chemicals have a temperature-dependent characteristic.

[0039] Figure 5 1 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a dishwashing detergent dispensing system 550 for a dishwasher, such as dishwasher 100. System 550 is an example of an application of system 450 for dispensing detergent and rinse aid in a dishwasher that can perform a cleaning cycle including at least a wash cycle and a rinse cycle. In the illustrated embodiment, system 550 includes a detergent dispensing system (wash tank 551A, wash temperature sensor 552A, detergent dispenser 553A, and dispenser controller 554), a rinse aid dispensing system (rinse tank 551B, rinse temperature sensor 552B, rinse aid dispenser 553B, and dispenser controller 554), and a user interface 560 that allows a user to control the operation of the dishwasher, including settings for the automatic dispensing operation of the detergent dispensing system and the rinse aid dispensing system.

[0040] Washing tank 551A can receive water from a clean water source and detergent from detergent dispenser 553A to form a washing liquid comprising water and detergent. The hydraulic system of the dishwasher (e.g., hydraulic system 329) can extract washing liquid from washing tank 551A and spray washing liquid into the washing chamber (e.g., washing chamber 101) of the dishwasher during the wash cycle. The temperature of the water received from the clean water source can vary over a wide range (e.g., 40°C to 70°C). Washing temperature sensor 552A is placed in washing tank 551A to sense the washing temperature representing the temperature of the washing liquid. Examples of washing temperature sensor 552A include thermocouples. Detergent dispenser 553A can dispense detergent into the washing liquid. Detergent can include any chemical or combination of chemicals suitable for use in a dishwasher during the wash cycle. In one example, detergent dispenser 553A can receive a detergent dispensing signal and use the detergent dispensing signal to control the dispensing of detergent. The detergent dispensing signal can be used to specify the amount of detergent to be dispensed. The amount can be directly controlled by a detergent dispensing signal indicating the volume or weight of detergent to be dispensed (e.g., 3 drops or 3 grams), and the detergent dispenser 553A can measure the amount for dispensing. Alternatively, the amount can be controlled by controlling the duration of the detergent dispensing (e.g., 3 seconds), and the detergent dispenser 553A can dispense detergent when the detergent dispensing signal is present.

[0041] Rinse tank 551B can receive water from a clean water source and rinse aid from rinse aid dispenser 553B to form a rinse liquid containing water and rinse aid. The hydraulic system of the dishwasher can extract rinse liquid from rinse tank 551B and spray it into the washing chamber of the dishwasher during the rinse cycle. Rinse temperature sensor 552B is placed in rinse tank 551B to sense the rinse temperature, which represents the temperature of the rinse liquid. Examples of rinse temperature sensor 552B include thermocouples. Rinse aid dispenser 553B can dispense rinse aid into the rinse liquid. Rinse aid can include any chemical or combination of chemicals suitable for use in the dishwasher during the rinse cycle. In one example, rinse aid dispenser 553B can receive a rinse aid dispensing signal and use the rinse aid dispensing signal to control the dispensing of rinse aid. The rinse aid dispensing signal can be used to specify the amount of rinse aid to be dispensed. The amount can be directly controlled using a rinse aid dispensing signal indicating the volume or weight of rinse aid to be dispensed (e.g., 3 drops or 3 grams), and rinse aid dispenser 553B can measure the amount for dispensing. Alternatively, the amount can be controlled by controlling the duration of the dispensing of rinse aid (e.g., 3 seconds), and rinse aid dispenser 553B can dispense rinse aid when the rinse aid dispensing signal is present.

[0042] Dispenser controller 554 can control the operation of detergent dispenser 553A and rinse aid dispenser 553B. In one example, dispenser controller 554 is part of the dishwasher's main electronic control board, which can also control the dishwasher's operating modes (e.g., wash mode during a wash cycle and rinse mode during a rinse cycle).

[0043] The dispenser controller 554 may use the wash temperature to control the detergent dispenser 553A and use the rinse temperature to control the rinse aid dispenser 553B. In one example, the dispenser controller 554 may use the wash temperature sensed in real time by the wash temperature sensor 552A to control the detergent dispenser 553A in real time and use the rinse temperature sensed in real time by the rinse temperature sensor 552B to control the rinse aid dispenser 553B in real time.

[0044] Dispenser controller 554 can receive wash temperature from wash temperature sensor 552A, and generate detergent dispensing signal based on wash temperature and detergent-temperature relationship during the wash cycle. Detergent-temperature relationship maps the value or value range of wash temperature to the value of the amount of detergent to be distributed. The example of detergent-temperature relationship includes a lookup table that maps each value or value range of wash temperature to the value of the amount of detergent to be distributed. Dispenser controller 554 can also receive rinse temperature from rinse temperature sensor 552B, and generate rinse aid dispensing signal based on rinse temperature and rinse aid-temperature relationship during the rinse cycle. Rinse aid-temperature relationship maps the value or value range of rinse temperature to the value of the amount of rinse aid to be distributed. The example of rinse aid-temperature relationship includes a lookup table that maps each value or value range of rinse temperature to the value of the amount of rinse aid to be distributed. Table 1 provides an example of the format of a lookup table illustrating detergent-temperature relationship or rinse aid-temperature relationship.

[0045] Temperature (℃) Amount (number of drops of detergent or rinse aid) 40-50 8 50-60 5 60-70 2

[0046] Table 1.

[0047] In various examples, dispenser controller 554 can generate a detergent dispensing signal at the beginning of a wash cycle, periodically during a wash cycle, and / or in response to a significant change in wash temperature during a wash cycle. A significant change in wash temperature can include, for example, a drop in wash temperature, which, according to a detergent-temperature relationship, requires an additional amount of detergent. Dispenser controller 554 can detect a significant change in wash temperature, and in response to each detection of a significant change, generate a detergent dispensing signal according to a newly sensed wash temperature. Dispenser controller 554 can also generate a rinse aid dispensing signal at the beginning of a rinse cycle, periodically during a rinse cycle, and / or in response to a significant change in rinse temperature during a rinse cycle. A significant change in rinse temperature can include, for example, a drop in rinse temperature, which, according to a rinse aid-temperature relationship, requires an additional amount of rinse aid. Dispenser controller 554 can detect a significant change in rinse temperature, and in response to each detection of a significant change, generate a rinse aid dispensing signal according to a newly sensed rinse temperature.

[0048] A detergent-temperature relationship can be determined for each specific detergent that can be used in a dishwasher, for example, based on known temperature-dependent properties of the specific detergent and / or experimentation. The detergent-temperature relationship can be determined to maximize the effectiveness of the detergent at various temperatures that may be encountered during a wash cycle. A rinse aid-temperature relationship can be determined for each specific rinse aid that can be used in a dishwasher, for example, based on known temperature-dependent properties of the specific rinse aid and / or experimentation. The rinse aid-temperature relationship can be determined to maximize the effectiveness of the rinse aid at various temperatures that may be encountered during a rinse cycle.

[0049] Controlling the dispensing of detergent and rinse aid according to the present subject matter can reduce the risk of incomplete cleaning of washed items, for example, by reducing food waste residue, detergent residue, and water spots on items. By accurately controlling the amount of detergent to be dispensed to provide a detergent concentration that ensures that items are clean (e.g., free of food stains or detergent residue) at the end of each cleaning cycle, and by accurately controlling the amount of rinse aid to be dispensed to provide a rinse aid concentration that ensures that items are clean (e.g., free of water spots or detergent residue) at the end of each cleaning cycle, the cost of detergent and rinse aid can be reduced. Due to the improved efficiency, the duration of the wash cycle and / or the duration of the rinse cycle can be reduced.

[0050] User interface 560 includes a presentation device 561 and a user input device 562. In one example, user interface 560 includes a touch screen that serves as both presentation device 561 and user input device 562. Presentation device 561 can present the operating status of the dishwasher (e.g., cleaning cycle in progress, in the wash cycle, in the rinse cycle, cleaning cycle completed, etc.), including information specific to the operation of system 550 (e.g., wash temperature, rinse temperature, dispensed detergent, dispensed rinse aid, etc.). User input 562 can receive user commands for operating the dishwasher (e.g., to start a cleaning cycle) and information for programming the dishwasher. Information for programming the dishwasher can include detergent-temperature relationships and rinse aid-temperature relationships.

[0051] When system 550 is implemented in dishwasher 100, user interface 560 may be included in user interface 106, dispenser controller 554 may be included in dispenser 105 and / or user interface 106, detergent dispenser 553A and rinse aid dispenser 553B may be included in dispenser 105, wash tank 551A may be wash tank 108, and rinse tank 551B may be booster tank 110. System 550 provides dishwasher 100 with intelligent control of detergent and rinse aid dispensing to reduce the risk of unsatisfactory cleaning results while improving the accuracy and efficiency of chemical usage.

[0052] Figure 6 6 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method 670 for dispensing dishwashing detergent in a dishwasher capable of performing cleaning cycles each including a wash cycle and a rinse cycle for cleaning items. An example of a dishwasher is dishwasher 100. Examples of dishwashing detergents include detergents to be dispensed during the wash cycle and rinse aids to be dispensed during the rinse cycle. When contained in a dispenser, the dishwashing detergent may be in liquid or solid form.

[0053] At 671, the temperature of the liquid in the tank of the dishwasher is measured. The liquid comprises at least water. Examples of the tank include a wash tank (e.g., wash tank 108) when the dishwashing detergent is a detergent, or a rinse tank (e.g., boost tank 110) when the dishwashing detergent is a rinse aid.

[0054] At 672, a distribution signal is generated using the sensed temperature. The distribution signal indicates the amount of dishwashing detergent to be distributed. The distribution signal can be generated using a predetermined agent-temperature relationship between the sensed temperature and the amount of dishwashing detergent to be distributed and the sensed temperature. The agent-temperature relationship can be in the form of a lookup table that maps each value or value range of the sensed temperature to the value of the amount of dishwashing detergent to be distributed. The agent-temperature relationship can be determined using known characteristics of the dishwashing detergent and / or experiments for the dishwashing detergent to produce a desired effect at multiple temperatures or temperature ranges for each temperature or temperature range in the temperature or temperature range. The distribution signal can be generated at the beginning of a wash or rinse cycle, periodically during a wash or rinse cycle, or in response to each significant change detected during a wash or rinse cycle or detected between cleaning cycles.

[0055] At 673, a dispense signal is used to control the amount of dishwashing detergent to be dispensed into the tank. At 674, dishwashing detergent is dispensed to be added to the liquid, such as into the tank or another point in the path of the liquid to be sprayed onto the items. At 675, the liquid is sprayed onto the items after the dishwashing detergent has been added to the liquid.

[0056] Method 670 can be performed in real time, including sensing the temperature in real time and using the sensed temperature to generate a dispensing signal in real time. This allows for dynamic adjustment of the amount of dishwashing detergent to be dispensed based on the instantaneous temperature of the liquid, which may vary significantly during operation of the dishwasher.

[0057] The performance of method 670 was verified using a prototype device implementing system 550. Dishes were used as the items to be cleaned. After executing the steps of method 670, the dishes were inspected for cleanliness, dewetting, pitting, and sheeting. The results demonstrated the effectiveness of washing and rinsing as expected.

[0058] Some non-limiting examples of the present subject matter (Examples 1 to 22) are provided below:

[0059] In embodiment 1, a dishwasher is provided, which is configured to perform a cleaning cycle, each of which includes a wash cycle and a rinse cycle for cleaning items. The dishwasher may include a tank, a temperature sensor, a detergent dispenser, and a dispenser controller. The tank may be configured to receive water and dishwashing detergent to form a liquid containing the received water and the received dishwashing detergent. The liquid is to be applied to the items. The temperature sensor may be configured to be placed in the tank to sense the temperature of the liquid. The detergent dispenser may be configured to dispense the dishwashing detergent into the liquid, receive a dispensing signal indicating the amount of the dishwashing detergent to be dispensed, and control the dispensing of the dishwashing detergent according to the amount. The dispenser controller may be configured to receive the sensed temperature from the temperature sensor and generate the dispensing signal based on the temperature.

[0060] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 can optionally be configured such that the dispenser controller is configured to receive the sensed temperature from the temperature sensor and use the received temperature to control the agent dispenser in real time.

[0061] In embodiment 3, the subject matter of embodiment 2 can optionally be configured such that the detergent dispenser is configured to control the dispensing of the dishwashing detergent by controlling the duration of the dispensing of the dishwashing detergent.

[0062] In embodiment 4, the subject matter according to embodiment 2 can optionally be configured such that the dishwashing detergent dispenser is configured to control the dispensing of the dishwashing detergent by controlling the volume or weight of the dishwashing detergent to be dispensed.

[0063] In Example 5, the subject matter of Example 2 can optionally be configured such that the dispenser controller is configured to generate the dispensing signal based on the sensed temperature and a predetermined agent-temperature relationship between the amount of dishwashing detergent to be dispensed and the sensed temperature.

[0064] In Example 6, the subject matter of Example 5 can optionally be configured such that the dispenser controller is configured to generate the dispensing signal based on the sensed temperature and a lookup table that maps each value or range of values ​​of the sensed temperature to a value of the amount of dishwashing detergent to be dispensed.

[0065] In Example 7, the subject matter of Example 5 can optionally be configured to further include a user interface configured to receive the agent-temperature relationship.

[0066] In Example 8, the subject matter described in any one or any combination of Examples 1 to 7 can be optionally configured such that the dishwashing detergent includes detergent to be dispensed during the wash cycle, the tank includes a wash tank, the wash tank is constructed to receive the water and the detergent to form the liquid wash liquid, the temperature sensor includes a wash temperature sensor, the wash temperature sensor is configured to be placed in the wash tank to sense the wash temperature as the temperature of the wash liquid, and the detergent dispenser includes a detergent dispenser, the detergent dispenser is configured to dispense the detergent into the wash liquid, receive a detergent dispensing signal indicating an amount of the detergent to be dispensed, and control the dispensing of the detergent according to the amount, and such that the dispenser controller is configured to receive the sensed wash temperature from the wash temperature sensor and generate the detergent dispensing signal based on the sensed wash temperature during the wash cycle.

[0067] In Example 9, the subject matter of Example 8 can be optionally configured such that: the dishwashing detergent further includes a rinse aid to be dispensed during the rinse cycle, the tank further includes a rinse tank, the rinse tank being configured to receive the water and the rinse aid to form a rinse liquid of the liquid, the temperature sensor further includes a rinse temperature sensor configured to be placed in the rinse tank to sense a rinse temperature as the temperature of the rinse aid, and the agent dispenser further includes a rinse aid dispenser configured to dispense the rinse aid into the rinse liquid, receive a rinse aid dispensing signal indicating an amount of the rinse aid to be dispensed, and control the dispensing of the rinse aid according to the amount, and such that the dispenser controller is further configured to receive the sensed rinse temperature from the rinse temperature sensor and generate the rinse aid dispensing signal based on the sensed rinse temperature during the rinse cycle.

[0068] In Example 10, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 1 to 7 can optionally be configured such that the dishwashing detergent includes a rinse aid to be dispensed during the rinse cycle, the tank includes a rinse tank configured to receive the water and the rinse aid to form a rinse liquid of the liquid, the temperature sensor includes a rinse temperature sensor configured to be placed in the rinse tank to sense a rinse temperature as the temperature of the rinse aid, and the agent dispenser includes a rinse aid dispenser configured to dispense the rinse aid into the rinse liquid, receive a rinse aid dispensing signal indicating an amount of the rinse aid to be dispensed, and control the dispensing of the rinse aid according to the amount, and such that the dispenser controller is configured to receive the sensed rinse temperature from the rinse temperature sensor and generate the rinse aid dispensing signal based on the sensed rinse temperature during the rinse cycle.

[0069] In an eleventh embodiment, a method for operating a dishwasher is also provided. The dishwasher is configured to perform cleaning cycles, each of which includes a wash cycle and a rinse cycle for cleaning items. The method may include: sensing a temperature of liquid in a tank, the liquid comprising at least water; using the sensed temperature to generate a dispense signal, the dispense signal indicating an amount of dishwashing detergent to be dispensed; dispensing the dishwashing detergent into the liquid; using the dispense signal to control the amount of dishwashing detergent dispensed into the liquid; and spraying the liquid onto the items after dispensing the dishwashing detergent into the liquid.

[0070] In Example 12, the subject matter of sensing the temperature according to Example 11 can optionally include sensing the temperature in real time. The subject matter of using the sensed temperature to generate the allocation signal according to Example 11 can optionally include using the sensed temperature to generate the allocation signal in real time.

[0071] In Example 13, the subject matter of generating the dispensing signal according to Example 11 can optionally include generating the dispensing signal using the sensed temperature and a predetermined agent-temperature relationship between the amount of the dishwashing detergent to be dispensed and the sensed temperature.

[0072] In Example 14, the agent-temperature relationship according to Example 13 can optionally include a lookup table that maps each value or range of values ​​of the sensed temperature to a value of the amount of the dishwashing agent to be dispensed.

[0073] In Example 15, the subject matter of Example 14 can optionally further include determining the agent-temperature relationship for the dishwashing detergent to exert a desired effect at a plurality of temperatures or temperature ranges for each of the temperatures or temperature ranges.

[0074] In Example 16, the subject matter of generating the allocation signal according to Example 11 can optionally include detecting a significant change in the sensed temperature, and generating the allocation signal in response to each detection of the significant change.

[0075] In Example 17, the subject matter of dispensing the dishwashing detergent according to Example 11 can optionally include dispensing solid dishwashing detergent.

[0076] In Example 18, the subject matter of dispensing the dishwashing detergent according to Example 11 can optionally include dispensing liquid dishwashing detergent.

[0077] In embodiment 19, the dishwashing detergent according to any one or any combination of embodiments 11 to 18 can optionally comprise a detergent.

[0078] In embodiment 20, the dishwashing detergent of embodiment 19 can optionally include a rinse aid.

[0079] In Example 21, the subject matter of sensing the temperature according to Example 19 can optionally include sensing the wash temperature of the wash liquid in the wash tank. The subject matter of generating the dispensing signal according to Example 19 can optionally include using the sensed wash temperature to generate a detergent dispensing signal during the wash cycle, the detergent dispensing signal indicating the amount of detergent to be dispensed. The subject matter of dispensing the dishwashing detergent according to Example 19 can optionally include dispensing the detergent into the wash liquid. The subject matter of controlling the amount of the dishwashing detergent dispensed into the tank according to Example 19 can optionally include using the detergent dispensing signal to control the amount of the detergent dispensed into the wash liquid. The subject matter of spraying the liquid according to Example 19 can optionally include spraying the wash liquid onto the items during the wash cycle after dispensing the detergent into the wash liquid.

[0080] In Example 22, the dishwashing detergent of any one or any combination of Examples 11 to 18 can optionally include rinse aid. The subject matter of sensing the temperature of any one or any combination of Examples 11 to 18 can optionally include sensing the rinse temperature of the rinse liquid in the rinse tank. The subject matter of generating the dispensing signal of any one or any combination of Examples 11 to 18 can optionally include using the sensed rinse temperature to generate a rinse aid dispensing signal during the rinse cycle, the rinse aid dispensing signal indicating the amount of rinse aid to be dispensed. The subject matter of dispensing the dishwashing detergent of any one or any combination of Examples 11 to 18 can optionally include dispensing the rinse aid into the rinse liquid. The subject matter of controlling the amount of the dishwashing detergent dispensed into the tank of any one or any combination of Examples 11 to 18 can optionally include using the rinse aid dispensing signal to control the amount of rinse aid dispensed into the rinse liquid. The subject matter of spraying the liquid according to any one or any combination of embodiments 11 to 18 can optionally include spraying the rinse liquid onto the items during the rinse cycle after dispensing the rinse aid into the rinse liquid.

[0081] This application is intended to cover modifications or variations of this subject matter. It should be understood that the above description is illustrative rather than restrictive. The scope of the present invention should be determined by reference to the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

1. A dishwasher configured to perform cleaning cycles each including a wash cycle and a rinse cycle for cleaning items, the dishwasher comprising: a tank configured to receive water and dishwashing detergent to form a liquid comprising received water and received dishwashing detergent, the liquid to be applied to the items; a temperature sensor configured to be placed in the tank to sense a temperature of the liquid; a dishwashing detergent dispenser configured to dispense the dishwashing detergent into the liquid, receive a dispensing signal indicative of an amount of the dishwashing detergent to be dispensed, and control the dispensing of the dishwashing detergent based on the amount; as well as A dispenser controller is configured to receive the sensed temperature from the temperature sensor and generate the dispense signal based on the temperature. 2 . The dishwasher according to claim 1 , wherein the dispenser controller is configured to receive the sensed temperature from the temperature sensor and control the agent dispenser in real time using the received temperature. 3 . The dishwasher of claim 2 , wherein the detergent dispenser is configured to control the dispensing of the dishwashing detergent by controlling a duration of the dispensing of the dishwashing detergent. 4 . The dishwasher of claim 2 , wherein the dishwashing detergent dispenser is configured to control the dispensing of the dishwashing detergent by controlling a volume or a weight of the dishwashing detergent to be dispensed.

5. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein the dispenser controller is configured to generate the dispense signal based on the sensed temperature and a predetermined agent-temperature relationship between the amount of the dishwashing agent to be dispensed and the sensed temperature.

6. The dishwasher of claim 5 , wherein the dispenser controller is configured to generate the dispensing signal based on the sensed temperature and a lookup table that maps each value or range of values ​​of the sensed temperature to a value of the amount of the dishwashing detergent to be dispensed. 7 . The dishwasher of claim 5 , further comprising a user interface configured to receive the agent-temperature relationship.

8. The dishwasher according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: said dishwashing detergent comprising detergent to be dispensed during said wash cycle; the tank comprising a wash tank configured to receive the water and the detergent to form the liquid wash liquor; the temperature sensor includes a wash temperature sensor configured to be placed in the wash tank to sense a wash temperature as a temperature of the wash liquid; the detergent dispenser comprising a detergent dispenser configured to dispense the detergent into the wash liquid, receive a detergent dispensing signal indicative of an amount of the detergent to be dispensed, and control the dispensing of the detergent based on the amount; and The dispenser controller is configured to receive the sensed wash temperature from the wash temperature sensor and generate the detergent dispensing signal based on the sensed wash temperature during the wash cycle.

9. The dishwasher according to claim 8, wherein: said dishwashing detergent further comprising a rinse aid to be dispensed during said rinse cycle; The tank further includes a rinse tank configured to receive the water and the rinse aid to form a rinse solution of the liquid; The temperature sensor further includes a rinse temperature sensor configured to be placed in the rinse tank to sense a rinse temperature as a temperature of the rinse aid; the agent dispenser further comprising a rinse aid dispenser configured to dispense the rinse aid into the rinse liquid, receive a rinse aid dispensing signal indicating an amount of the rinse aid to be dispensed, and control the dispensing of the rinse aid according to the amount; and The dispenser controller is further configured to receive the sensed rinse temperature from the rinse temperature sensor and generate the rinse aid dispensing signal during the rinse cycle based on the sensed rinse temperature.

10. The dishwasher according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: the dishwashing detergent including a rinse aid to be dispensed during the rinse cycle; the tank including a rinse tank configured to receive the water and the rinse aid to form the liquid rinse solution; the temperature sensor includes a rinse temperature sensor configured to be placed in the rinse tank to sense a rinse temperature as a temperature of the rinse aid; the agent dispenser comprising a rinse aid dispenser configured to dispense the rinse aid into the rinse liquid, receive a rinse aid dispensing signal indicative of an amount of the rinse aid to be dispensed, and control the dispensing of the rinse aid based on the amount; and The dispenser controller is configured to receive the sensed rinse temperature from the rinse temperature sensor and generate the rinse aid dispensing signal during the rinse cycle based on the sensed rinse temperature.

11. A method for operating a dishwasher, the dishwasher being configured to perform cleaning cycles, the cleaning cycles each comprising a wash cycle and a rinse cycle for cleaning items, the method comprising: sensing a temperature of a liquid in a tank, the liquid comprising at least water; using the sensed temperature to generate a dispensing signal indicating an amount of dishwashing detergent to dispense; dispensing the dishwashing detergent into the liquid; using the dispensing signal to control the amount of the dishwashing detergent dispensed into the liquid; as well as The liquid is sprayed onto the items after dispensing the dishwashing detergent into the liquid. 12 . The method of claim 11 , wherein sensing the temperature comprises sensing the temperature in real time, and using the sensed temperature to generate the dispense signal comprises using the sensed temperature to generate the dispense signal in real time.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein generating the dispense signal comprises generating the dispense signal using the sensed temperature and a predetermined agent-temperature relationship between the amount of the dishwashing detergent to be dispensed and the sensed temperature.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the agent-temperature relationship comprises a lookup table that maps each value or range of values ​​of the sensed temperature to a value of the amount of the dishwashing agent to be dispensed.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising determining the agent-temperature relationship for the dishwashing detergent to exert a desired effect at a plurality of temperatures or temperature ranges for each of the temperatures or temperature ranges.

16. The method of claim 11, wherein generating the allocation signal comprises: detecting a significant change in the sensed temperature; as well as The allocation signal is generated in response to each detection of the significant change.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein dispensing the dishwashing detergent comprises dispensing solid dishwashing detergent.

18. The method of claim 11, wherein dispensing the dishwashing detergent comprises dispensing liquid dishwashing detergent.

19. The method of any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein the dishwashing detergent comprises a detergent.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the dishwashing detergent further comprises a rinse aid.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein: Sensing the temperature includes sensing a washing temperature of washing liquid in a washing tank; generating the dispensing signal includes using the sensed wash temperature to generate a detergent dispensing signal during the wash cycle, the detergent dispensing signal indicating an amount of detergent to be dispensed; dispensing the dishwashing detergent comprises dispensing the detergent into the wash liquor; controlling the amount of the dishwashing detergent dispensed into the tank comprises using the detergent dispensing signal to control the amount of the detergent dispensed into the wash liquor; as well as Spraying the liquid includes spraying the wash liquid onto the items during the wash cycle after dispensing the detergent into the wash liquid.

22. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein: The dishwashing detergent includes a rinse aid; Sensing the temperature includes sensing a rinse temperature of a rinse liquid in a rinse tank; generating the dispensing signal includes using the sensed rinse temperature to generate a rinse aid dispensing signal during the rinse cycle, the rinse aid dispensing signal indicating an amount of rinse aid to dispense; dispensing the dishwashing detergent includes dispensing the rinse aid into the rinse liquid; controlling the amount of the dishwashing detergent dispensed into the tank includes using the rinse aid dispensing signal to control the amount of the rinse aid dispensed into the rinse liquid; as well as Spraying the liquid includes spraying the rinse liquid onto the items during the rinse cycle after dispensing the rinse aid into the rinse liquid.

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