System for dispensing solid detergent in dishwasher

Abstract

A system may dispense a detergent solution made of a solid detergent into a dishwasher that includes a wash chamber and is capable of performing a cleaning cycle including wash and rinse cycles. The system comprises a dispenser (1) for dissolving a solid detergent block and dispensing a detergent solution. The dispenser (1) is configured to contain a solid detergent block for multiple cleaning cycles, to be retrofit into a dishwasher, and to collect and direct sprayed water or liquid to the detergent block. The dispenser allows continuous release of the detergent solution. The system may also include a battery powered device having a control unit (22) and a conductivity sensor (23) that operates independently of the dishwasher, measures the conductivity of the washing liquid and signals when to refill the dispenser (1) independently of the dishwasher.

Description

priority

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 494,562, filed April 6, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This patent application relates generally to a system for dispensing a detergent solution made of solid detergent into a dishwasher. In various embodiments, the subject matter includes apparatus for a dishwasher comprising a washing chamber and configured to perform cleaning cycles, each cleaning cycle including a washing and rinsing cycle. The system includes a dispenser and a device for detecting low detergent content in the washing liquid; a dispenser for dispensing a detergent solution made of solid detergent into the dishwasher; and a kit including the dispenser and a replaceable liquid inlet. The subject matter also provides a method for dispensing detergent solution from a dispenser in a dishwasher capable of performing cleaning cycles, each cleaning cycle including a washing and rinsing cycle. Background Technology

[0003] A dishwasher, also known as a dishwashing machine or dishware washer, is a machine used to automatically clean items such as dishes, trays, laboratory equipment, tableware, and kitchen utensils. A batch of items to be cleaned (e.g., dishes) is loaded into the drum of a dishwasher, which typically includes racks and appliance holders, to be cleaned in a cleaning cycle that includes wash and rinse cycles. During the wash cycle, a cleaning mixture formed from water and dishwasher detergent is sprayed into the loaded drum to spray the dishes. Then, before the rinse cycle begins, the main portion of the cleaning mixture is held in the drum while a small portion is drained (which is refilled during the rinse cycle). During the rinse cycle, water is sprayed into the wash chamber to remove any residue of the cleaning mixture. After the rinse cycle is complete, air and / or heat may be optionally used during the drying cycle to dry the dishes. Dishwashers can have a variety of user-selectable settings for each cleaning cycle. These settings can define, for example, time, temperature, and the repetition of each of the wash, rinse, and dry cycles. These settings also allow users to select which cycles to include (e.g., rinse only, dry only, rinse and dry, or wash and rinse without drying).

[0004] A typical household dishwasher is an under-counter unit designed to be installed under the kitchen counter. Other types of dishwashers include industrial or commercial dishwashers used in restaurants, hotels, and other businesses with food service, such as hood dishwashers. Dishwasher detergents used in these dishwashers can include chemicals that can clean, disinfect, and / or reduce the surface tension of water (and thus reduce water stains on dishes). Such dishwasher detergents are made in various solid and liquid forms. Solid dishwasher detergents include chemicals made in solid block form, such as tablets of various shapes.

[0005] The technical field of this application specifically relates to systems configured to allow for multiple cleaning cycles of solid detergent per load.

[0006] One drawback of existing systems is that they either require adding dishwasher detergent before each cleaning cycle, or existing solid detergent dispensers, which can provide detergent solution over multiple cleaning cycles, are bulky because they require electronics and spray nozzles to dissolve the solid detergent. Furthermore, the limited space within the washing chamber for additional dispensers and the limited storage space for sufficient solid detergent for several cleaning cycles renders installations that allow detergent solution to be dispensed into existing dishwashers over multiple cleaning cycles ineffective. Additional drawbacks involve providing a proper metered supply of detergent solution and the effort required for users to visually check for sufficient solid detergent. Another problem is that changing the type of detergent from liquid to solid, or from one detergent per cleaning cycle to one for multiple cleaning cycles, requires replacing the dishwasher or making time-consuming and costly upgrades to existing dishwashers.

[0007] This topic provides devices and methods to overcome these shortcomings. Summary of the Invention

[0008] To address these and other drawbacks, this subject matter includes a system for dispensing a detergent solution made from solid detergent into a dishwasher, the dishwasher including a washing chamber and capable of performing cleaning cycles, each cleaning cycle including a washing and rinsing cycle, the system including a dispenser for dissolving solid detergent blocks and dispensing the detergent solution; and a battery-powered device including a control unit and a conductivity sensor.

[0009] This topic relates to a specific dispenser used to dispense detergent solutions made from solid detergents into dishwashers.

[0010] Furthermore, this subject matter relates to a kit comprising a dispenser for dispensing a detergent solution made of solid detergent into a dishwasher; and one or more replaceable elements forming a liquid inlet to the dispenser.

[0011] This topic also relates to a method for dispensing detergent solution from a dispenser in a dishwasher capable of performing cleaning cycles, each cleaning cycle including a washing and rinsing cycle.

[0012] This topic also relates to the use of the aforementioned systems, dispensers, or kits for the removable modification and / or operation of dishwashers having said systems.

[0013] Furthermore, this subject provides a dishwasher that includes the system and / or is configured to perform the method of the present invention.

[0014] This summary is an overview of some of the teachings of this application and is not intended to be exclusive or exhaustive of the subject matter. Further details regarding the subject matter are given in the detailed description and the appended claims. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The accompanying drawings illustrate, by way of example, the various embodiments discussed in this disclosure in a general manner. The drawings are for illustrative purposes only and may not be drawn to scale.

[0016] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a dispenser 1 to be placed in a dishwasher, according to one embodiment of the system of this subject.

[0017] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Another perspective view of the distributor 1 shown.

[0018] Figure 3 The lower part of the image is Figure 1 and Figure 2 The top view shows the dispenser 1. The top view shows the dispenser 1 along... Figure 3 The figure below shows a cross-sectional view of line AA.

[0019] Figure 4 It is a graph showing the conductivity measurement of the concentration of solid detergent in the solution in the dishwasher tub, and also shows visual control of the amount of remaining solid product in the dispenser.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of an implementation scheme of a system 20 to be arranged in a dishwasher according to one embodiment of this topic. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The following detailed description of the subject matter refers to the subject matter in the accompanying drawings, which illustrate by way of illustration specific aspects and embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the subject matter. References to “a,” “an,” or “various” embodiments in this disclosure do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment; such references contemplate multiple embodiments. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims and the full scope of their legal equivalents.

[0022] In detail, this topic provides the following:

[0023] [system]

[0024] This subject provides a system for dispensing a detergent solution made from solid detergent into a dishwasher, the dishwasher including a washing chamber and capable of performing cleaning cycles, each cleaning cycle including a washing and rinsing cycle;

[0025] The system includes:

[0026] A dispenser for dissolving solid detergent blocks and dispensing detergent solution, wherein the dispenser is configured to:

[0027] - A solid detergent block containing enough detergent solution to provide for at least 10 cleaning cycles.

[0028] - It can be removably retrofitted into a dishwasher, and,

[0029] When removably installed on the inner wall of the dishwasher's washing chamber,

[0030] - Water or liquid sprayed into the washing chamber is collected by the liquid inlet.

[0031] - The collected water or liquid is directed to a solid detergent block contained in a dispenser, whereby a portion of the solid detergent block is dissolved to form a detergent solution, and

[0032] - Allows all detergent solutions to be released continuously as they are formed;

[0033] A battery-powered device includes a control unit and a conductivity sensor, wherein the battery-powered device is configured to operate independently of the dishwasher and can be removably retrofitted into the dishwasher, and, when the battery-powered device is installed in the dishwasher, the conductivity sensor is configured to measure the conductivity of the detergent and provide the measured conductivity value to the control unit, the control unit being configured to process the conductivity value and, if the measured conductivity value is below a preset threshold, generate a signal to indicate that the dispenser must be refilled with solid detergent blocks; wherein the signal is independent of the dishwasher display.

[0034] This application provides a system for dispensing a detergent solution generated from solid detergent in a dishwasher, wherein the system can be arranged inside the dishwasher and allows each load of solid detergent to continue for multiple cleaning cycles. The system according to this subject matter includes a modifiable dispenser that passively dispenses the detergent solution as collected water or liquid passes through the dispenser; and a modifiable device, independent of the dishwasher's power supply, for measuring the conductivity of the detergent liquid and, if the conductivity is low, for generating a signal (which may also be referred to as a product depletion alarm). "Passive" or "natural" means that no additional force or energy is required to operate the dispenser or dishwasher to collect water and direct its flow to the solid detergent contained in the dispenser to form a detergent solution by dissolving the solid detergent and further dispensing the detergent solution via a liquid outlet. Compared to existing examples of solid detergent dispensers, this subject provides a dispenser that contains solid detergent blocks for providing a detergent solution that is easier to produce (e.g., does not require electronics or sprayers) and easier to use (e.g., substantially automatic detergent dispensing, where solid detergent is loaded between multiple cleaning cycles), while providing a substantially consistent amount and concentration of detergent solution for each cleaning cycle.

[0035] As used herein, unless otherwise stated, the term "liquid" means detergent or water. The term "liquid" may also refer to rinsing liquid.

[0036] The system according to this subject includes a dispenser that can be spatially and functionally retrofitted to existing dishwashers, including under-counter and hood dishwashers, to allow storage of sufficient solid detergent blocks for several cleaning cycles and to allow their use in generating and dispensing detergent solutions. The provided system overcomes the problem of limited space in the dishwasher's wash chamber for product storage and dispenser installation. The dispenser can hold one or more solid detergent blocks, receives water during the wash and rinse cycles of the cleaning cycle to dissolve a portion of the solid detergent blocks through substantially uniform erosion, and continuously releases the resulting detergent solution into the dishwasher's drum (which may also be referred to as the wash chamber or cleaning chamber).

[0037] The system based on this topic eliminates the need to add dishwasher detergent before each cleaning cycle, meaning this topic provides a one-time product load lifespan. It also helps ensure consistency in the concentration and amount of detergent dispensed by the system. Solid detergent blocks are a safer alternative to liquid detergents. The solid block form of detergent is more concentrated than its liquid form, eliminating the risk of spills and potentially eliminating the need for personal protective equipment. Solid detergent blocks also offer sustainability benefits due to reduced packaging and water content, as well as a smaller storage footprint at the consumer location.

[0038] The system according to this subject also includes a battery-powered device comprising a control unit and a conductivity sensor capable of being spatially and functionally retrofitted into an existing dishwasher. As a battery-powered device, it is independent of the dishwasher's power supply. The battery-powered device, including the control unit and conductivity sensor, is configured to represent a retrofittable device intended to be arranged in an existing dishwasher to measure the conductivity of the detergent and generate a signal (product depletion alarm) as needed. The device monitors the conductivity of the detergent, and if the conductivity drops below a preset level, it generates a signal, such as a product depletion alarm, to ensure that dishwashing does not occur if the metered detergent level is too low, thereby producing strong product performance and accurately ensuring dosage, which guarantees both cleaning and hygienic results as well as food safety. The required level of solid detergent for such results is ensured by the product depletion alarm.

[0039] Furthermore, the system in this subject ensures economically and environmentally sustainable operation and product use by avoiding oversupply of the product, such as would occur if users of an alternative system simply put multiple small-load household dishwasher tabs into the dishwasher tub, as is typical in existing technology standard processes in the market.

[0040] As described above, the battery-powered device includes a control unit and a conductivity sensor. According to this subject matter, the battery-powered device is configured to operate independently of the dishwasher. The conductivity sensor measures the conductivity of the detergent. The control unit processes the conductivity value measured by the conductivity sensor, and if the measured conductivity value is at or below a preset threshold, the control unit generates a signal to instruct the user that the dispenser needs to be refilled with solid detergent blocks.

[0041] The signal is independent of the dishwasher display. This means that the battery-powered device does not communicate with the dishwasher or any of its control units; that is, the battery-powered device and the dishwasher do not exchange any data, information, or instructions. Furthermore, the signal generated by the battery-powered device is not sent to the dishwasher for display. Instead, the signal is displayed by the battery-powered device as a separate module, for example, in the form of a light signal with a specific color (e.g., via LEDs), or the signal is wirelessly transmitted by the battery-powered device to an external device located outside the dishwasher, where it is displayed. The external device can be a mobile device, such as a smartphone, or it can be a computer. In the case where the signal is displayed by the battery-powered device itself, for example, in the form of a light signal with a specific color (e.g., via LEDs), the user will notice the signal after opening the dishwasher to unload items for cleaning and / or loading items to be cleaned, and the detergent compartment of the dispenser can be refilled with solid detergent blocks.

[0042] As described above, the dispenser is used to dissolve solid detergent blocks and dispense detergent solution, and is configured to be removably retrofitted into a dishwasher. The dispenser preferably includes a mounting mechanism that allows the dispenser to be internally mounted within the dishwasher. The mounting mechanism allows the dispenser to be installed in a position within the dishwasher without interfering with its operation and substantially without affecting its loading capacity. In a preferred embodiment, the mounting mechanism allows the dispenser to be attached to the inner surface of the wash chamber, and more preferably allows the dispenser to be removably attached to the inner surface of the dishwasher's wash chamber. In a particularly preferred further embodiment, the mounting mechanism is configured to allow removable attachment to the inner surface of the dishwasher's wash chamber when the dispenser is removed, without causing any damage to the dishwasher or its components. This can preferably be achieved using an adhesive (e.g., adhesive tape). Using an adhesive is particularly advantageous because the dispenser can be mounted to the inner wall of the dishwasher and can be removed again without causing any damage to the dishwasher, for example, without the need to drill holes for screws. In a preferred embodiment, the mounting mechanism includes a mounting plate that is preferably mounted to the inner surface of the dishwasher by adhesive or adhesive tape, and the dispenser is configured to be removably attached to the mounting plate. In another preferred embodiment, the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism configured to adjust the tilt of the dispenser. Adjusting the tilt of the dispenser allows the orientation of the dispenser to be adjusted such that the plane of the bottom side of the dispenser is tilted towards the liquid outlet. This allows for the prevention of any detergent solution remaining in the dispenser and enables the emptying of the detergent chamber.

[0043] The removable mounting mechanism allows the dispenser to be removed from the dishwasher for regular or as-needed cleaning of the dispenser and the area behind the dispenser in the dishwasher to prevent food stains and / or detergent buildup.

[0044] The dispenser is configured to collect water or liquid sprayed inside the washing chamber when installed on the inner wall of the dishwasher's washing chamber, meaning that a portion of the water or liquid sprayed inside the washing chamber during the washing and rinsing cycles is collected by the dispenser.

[0045] Furthermore, the dispenser is configured, when installed on the inner wall of the dishwasher's wash chamber, to guide the collected water or liquid to a solid detergent block contained within the dispenser. A portion of the solid detergent block dissolves and forms a detergent solution, allowing for the continuous release of all detergent solution as it forms. This means that once the detergent solution is formed, the dispenser releases it without leaving any detergent solution within it. In other words, the dispenser allows the collected water and detergent solution to flow freely from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet without obstruction and without creating a liquid level within the dispenser. The dispenser allows for the continuous release of all formed detergent solution immediately after formation, thus emptying the detergent chamber relative to the contents of the detergent solution. In a preferred embodiment, the dispenser is installed in the dishwasher such that the flat surface of its bottom side faces the liquid outlet to avoid retaining any detergent solution within the dispenser and to achieve emptying of the detergent chamber relative to the contents of the detergent solution. This configuration has the advantage of preventing the swelling of the solid detergent block, which could lead to blockage or damage to the dispenser. Another advantage is that the solid detergent blocks do not dissolve during the periods when the dishwasher is not in use.

[0046] As outlined above, the dispenser is configured to store solid detergent blocks in an amount sufficient to provide detergent solution for at least 100 cleaning cycles on a 90-second dishwasher cleaning program without the need to refill the solid detergent blocks. In a particularly preferred embodiment, each of the solid detergent blocks contains both detergent and rinsing agent.

[0047] In another preferred embodiment, the liquid inlet of the dispenser provides a net opening space, wherein the dispenser is constructed such that all collected water or liquid entering the dispenser enters the dispenser via said liquid inlet, wherein the liquid inlet is preferably designed as a replaceable element. The net opening space of the liquid inlet (forming the sole liquid inlet of the dispenser when ready for operation), preferably designed as a replaceable element, and more preferably as a replaceable perforated plate, defines the amount of water or liquid entering the dispenser, which is “collected water or liquid,” and thus defines the amount of solid detergent dissolved within a given time period. A particular advantage is that the liquid inlet can be replaced by other liquid inlets with different net opening spaces, which is useful for adapting to the user’s needs, such as the water hardness at the location where the dishwasher is operating. That is, the higher the water hardness, the more detergent solution must be produced within a given time limit, meaning that the dispenser needs to collect more water or liquid compared to lower water hardness, which is achieved through a larger net opening space. In another preferred embodiment, the liquid inlet is substantially flat, arranged on the top side of the dispenser, and is sloped, making it less likely for dirt to accumulate and / or easier to remove. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the liquid inlet is designed as a substantially flat, replaceable perforated plate, which is arranged on the top side of the dispenser and is inclined.

[0048] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the dispenser is configured to contain a solid detergent block with a total weight of 400g to 600g, and provides a liquid inlet from 0.2cm... 2 up to 3.0cm 2 Preferably 0.5cm 2 Up to 2.0cm 2 The dispenser has a clear opening space, and the liquid inlet is preferably designed as a replaceable element (e.g., a replaceable perforated plate). Such dispensers are configured to operate in dishwashers configured to spray water or liquid at approximately 300 L / min to 400 L / min into the washing chamber during a wash cycle, so as to allow the dispenser to produce sufficient detergent solution.

[0049] In another preferred embodiment, the dispenser includes a liquid inlet, a pre-chamber, a detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with each other in this order. The dispenser is configured to transfer all collected water or liquid from the liquid inlet to the pre-chamber, from the pre-chamber to the detergent chamber to form a detergent solution by dissolving a portion of a solid detergent block, and from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet. As described above, the dispenser is configured to allow continuous release of all formed detergent solution during its formation, meaning that once the detergent solution is formed, the dispenser releases the detergent solution without retaining or holding any detergent solution within the dispenser. Therefore, the dispenser allows the collected water and detergent solution to pass freely from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet without obstruction and without the formation of a liquid level within the dispenser. The dispenser allows continuous release of all formed detergent solution to empty the detergent chamber relative to the contents of the detergent solution. In a preferred embodiment, the liquid inlet of the dispenser is designed as a replaceable element and is arranged on the top side of the pre-containment chamber, and is more preferably designed as a replaceable perforated plate.

[0050] In another preferred embodiment, the detergent compartment includes a detergent opening on the top side for introducing solid detergent blocks, and a cover for closing the detergent opening, which seals the detergent opening when closed. The advantage is that it prevents the inflow of liquid sprayed into the washing chamber via the detergent opening for solid detergent blocks, since the only opening for collected water or liquid is via the liquid inlet, which limits and restricts the amount of water or liquid entering the dispenser within a given time period.

[0051] In another preferred embodiment, the pre-flush chamber is arranged adjacent to the detergent chamber and separated from it by a partition wall, with fluid communication between the pre-flush chamber and the detergent chamber at the bottom. This configuration allows for the defined guidance of the water or liquid collected within the dispenser.

[0052] In another preferred embodiment, the detergent compartment is divided into more than one compartment by a partition wall, with fluid communication between adjacent compartments at the bottom. Preferably, three compartments are arranged. Each compartment is configured to contain one solid detergent block. This has the advantage of preventing the solid detergent blocks from wedging into or clogging each other.

[0053] In another preferred embodiment, the dispenser further includes an additional partition wall between the liquid outlet and the adjacent detergent chamber (i.e., the adjacent upstream compartment of the detergent chamber), maintaining fluid communication between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet at the bottom. Advantageously, the additional partition wall upstream of the liquid outlet functions as a vapor barrier. Without such an additional partition wall or vapor barrier, vapor that may enter the liquid outlet could come into contact with the solid detergent block, potentially leading to undesirable wetting of the solid detergent. Due to the presence of such an additional partition wall or vapor barrier, the vapor entering the liquid outlet can condense at the additional partition wall, thus preventing the vapor from contacting the solid detergent block.

[0054] The dispenser preferably has the form of a flat box as its overall shape, having a rear wall, a front wall, a left wall, a right wall, a top wall or top side, and a bottom wall. The top side preferably includes an opening for introducing solid detergent blocks, which can be closed by a lid; and a liquid inlet. The dispenser preferably includes a mounting mechanism on the rear wall. In its simplest form, the mounting mechanism is an adhesive or adhesive tape, by which the rear wall of the dispenser is attached to the inner wall of the dishwasher. Furthermore, preferably, the liquid outlet is arranged at the lowest point of one of the side walls, front wall, or rear wall. More preferably, the liquid outlet is arranged at the lowest point of one of the side walls.

[0055] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the system, the dispenser includes a front wall, and at least a portion of the front wall covering the detergent chamber is transparent, allowing the user to visually inspect the solid detergent contents in the dispenser.

[0056] Solid detergent blocks are solid detergents in solid block form. Solid detergents are water-soluble chemicals in solid block form that can be used to clean and / or disinfect objects washed in a dishwasher. Typically, the solid blocks have the shape of rectangular tablets. When needed, the rectangular tablets can be made with rounded edges and / or corners. Solid detergents may contain detergent (which may also be referred to as cleaning agent or detergent), washing agent and rinsing agent (which may also be referred to as rinsing aid), or washing agent, rinsing agent, and disinfectant. In a preferred embodiment, the solid detergent contains washing agent, rinsing agent, and disinfectant (which may also be referred to as a "three-in-one" detergent). In a particularly preferred embodiment, the solid detergent contains two agents, namely washing agent and rinsing agent, without disinfectant (which may also be referred to as a "two-in-one" detergent). Preferably, the rinsing liquid is clean water, and the rinsing effect is achieved by the rinsing agent contained in the "two-in-one" detergent, which is present on the items to be cleaned at the start of the rinsing cycle due to the washing cycle. Therefore, a dishwasher only needs a tank for detergent because it uses water as the rinsing solution.

[0057] In this application, the term "dishwasher," also referred to as a dishwashing appliance or dishwashing machine, includes any type of washing machine that can use detergent for cleaning and / or disinfecting purposes. Examples include under-counter or hooded dishwashers for washing tableware, flatware, pots and pans, knives, flatware, glasses, kitchen utensils, plates, trays, etc. Examples of commercial dishwashing equipment may also be used with this subject matter. A dishwasher includes a washing chamber formed by the dishwasher's inner walls and door. In an example of an under-counter kitchen dishwasher, the door rotates approximately 90 degrees about a horizontal axis to switch between a fully closed and fully open state. The door has an inside and an outside that are substantially vertical when the door is fully closed and substantially horizontal when the door is fully open.

[0058] In this application, a "cleaning cycle" includes one or more of a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, and a drying cycle, depending on the settings made by the user of the dishwasher. In a preferred embodiment, the dishwasher is configured to perform a cleaning cycle consisting of a washing and rinsing cycle, i.e., the cleaning cycle does not include a drying cycle. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the dishwasher does not provide a means for drying cleaned items. After cleaning, the washed items are dried essentially outside the dishwasher, as drying can be carried out solely by the energy absorbed by the washed items from the hot rinsing water.

[0059] The dishwasher intended to be equipped with a system according to this subject matter is preferably configured to provide selectable programs with varying durations of cleaning cycles. Specifically, the dishwasher is configured to provide programs in which the selectable duration of each cleaning cycle is 60 to 300 seconds per cycle, each cleaning cycle includes a washing cycle and a rinsing cycle, and wherein the temperature is in the range of 50°C to 85°C. More preferably, the dishwasher is configured to spray liquid at a rate of 300 l / min to 400 l / min during the washing cycle and spray water at a rate of 2 l to 3 l / rinsing cycle during the rinsing cycle.

[0060] Therefore, when referring to dispensers or systems including such dispensers according to this subject matter, wherein the dispenser is configured to contain solid detergent blocks in an amount sufficient to provide detergent solution for at least 100 cleaning cycles on a 90-second dishwasher cleaning program, and wherein the dishwasher is configured to provide a program in which the selectable duration of each cleaning cycle is 60 to 300 seconds, and each cleaning cycle includes a washing cycle and a rinsing cycle.

[0061] In another preferred embodiment, the dishwasher intended to be equipped with a system according to this subject matter is preferably configured to provide a cleaning cycle consisting of a washing cycle and a rinsing cycle.

[0062] In another preferred embodiment, the dishwasher intended to be equipped with a system according to this subject matter includes a heating system for bringing the detergent and rinsing water to a preset temperature, a temperature sensor, and a control unit for controlling the temperature. More preferably, the dishwasher does not include any other sensors besides the temperature sensor and a modified conductivity sensor. That is, the dishwasher preferably does not include a turbidity sensor (typically used to determine the turbidity of the detergent), a position sensor (typically used to determine the rotation of the spray arm), a sensor for determining the pH of the detergent, or a sensor for determining the hardness of tap water.

[0063] A typical cleaning process performed by a dishwasher is described below. The door opens at least once between two consecutive cleaning cycles to allow loading of dishes and / or other objects to be cleaned and unloading of cleaned dishes and / or other objects. “Cleaning” can include cleaning only, disinfecting only, or cleaning and disinfecting, depending on whether, for example, a solid detergent block is capable of cleaning only, disinfecting only, or cleaning and disinfecting. A “wash cycle” includes a cycle or operating pattern designed for applying a cleaning mixture formed of water and detergent to dishes and / or other objects. A “rinse cycle” includes a cycle or operating pattern designed for applying water or water and chemical rinsing aids and / or chemical disinfectants to dishes and / or other objects. Preferably, a “rinse cycle” refers to a cycle or operating pattern designed for applying water to dishes and / or other objects. Since the solid detergent preferably contains two agents, namely detergent and rinsing agent (“2-in-1” detergent), the rinsing liquid is preferably clean water. Here, the rinsing effect is achieved by the rinsing agent contained in the “2-in-1” detergent, wherein the rinsing agent comes into contact with the items to be cleaned during the wash cycle. During the washing cycle, a "two-in-one" detergent containing both detergent and rinse aid is used, and thus the rinse aid is present on the items to be cleaned when the rinse begins.

[0064] Some dishwashers (e.g., commercial dishwashers) may include a rinse cycle primarily for sterilization through heating and / or chemical application and / or processes. A “dry cycle” includes a cycle or operating mode designed to dry cleaned dishes and / or other objects by airflow and / or heat without applying additional water and / or detergent. Dishwashers typically allow the user to choose whether to include a drying cycle in the cleaning cycle, as the user can open the dishwasher door to allow the washed and rinsed dishes to air dry, or move the washed and rinsed dishes to another location for drying. Preferably, the dishwasher does not have a device for drying.

[0065] [Distributor]

[0066] First implementation of the distributor

[0067] As mentioned above, this disclosure also relates to a dispenser for dispensing a detergent solution made from solid detergent into a dishwasher, wherein the dispenser is configured to:

[0068] - A solid detergent block containing enough detergent solution to provide for at least 10 cleaning cycles.

[0069] - It can be removably retrofitted into a dishwasher, and,

[0070] When removably installed on the inner wall of the dishwasher's washing chamber,

[0071] - Water or liquid sprayed into the washing chamber is collected by the liquid inlet.

[0072] - The collected water or liquid is directed to a solid detergent block contained in a dispenser, whereby a portion of the solid detergent block is dissolved to form a detergent solution, and

[0073] - Allows all detergent solutions to be released continuously as they are formed.

[0074] As used herein, "allowing all detergent solution to be released continuously as it forms" means that once the detergent solution is formed, the dispenser releases the detergent solution without leaving or retaining any detergent solution within the dispenser. In other words, the dispenser allows the collected water and detergent solution to flow freely from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet without obstruction and without creating a liquid level within the dispenser. The dispenser allows for the continuous release of all formed detergent solution immediately after formation, thus emptying the detergent chamber relative to the contents of the detergent solution.

[0075] The dispenser's liquid inlet provides a clear opening space, and the dispenser is preferably constructed such that all collected water or liquid entering the dispenser enters the dispenser via said liquid inlet. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element. This is advantageous because the liquid inlet can be replaced by other liquid inlets with different clear opening spaces, which is useful for adapting to the user's needs, for example, taking into account the water hardness at the location where the dishwasher is operating.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the dispenser includes a liquid inlet, a pre-flush chamber, a detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with each other in this order. The dispenser is configured to transfer all collected water or liquid from the liquid inlet to the pre-flush chamber, from the pre-flush chamber to the detergent chamber to form a detergent solution by dissolving a portion of a solid detergent block, and from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet. Preferably, the liquid inlet of the dispenser is located on the top side of the pre-flush chamber and is designed as a replaceable element.

[0077] In another preferred embodiment, the detergent compartment further includes a detergent opening on the top side for introducing a solid detergent block, and the cover sealing the opening for introducing the solid detergent block when closed.

[0078] More preferably, the pre-treatment chamber is arranged adjacent to the detergent chamber and separated from it by a partition wall, with fluid communication between the pre-treatment chamber and the detergent chamber at the bottom. In another preferred embodiment, the detergent chamber is divided into more than one compartment by a partition wall, with fluid communication between adjacent compartments at the bottom.

[0079] In another preferred embodiment, the dispenser further includes an additional partition wall between the liquid outlet and the adjacent detergent chamber (i.e., the adjacent upstream compartment of the detergent chamber), with fluid communication maintained at the bottom between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the additional partition wall acting as a vapor barrier.

[0080] Preferably, the dispenser is configured to contain a solid detergent block with a total weight of 400g to 600g, and provides a liquid inlet from 0.2cm. 2 up to 3.0cm 2 Preferably 0.5cm 2 Up to 2.0cm 2 The clear opening space. These features allow the dispenser to operate in a dishwasher configured to spray water or liquid at approximately 300 L / min to 400 L / min into the washing chamber during the wash cycle, so as to allow the dispenser to produce a sufficient detergent solution.

[0081] In another preferred embodiment, the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that allows the dispenser to be internally mounted in a dishwasher, wherein the mounting mechanism includes a mounting plate configured to be mounted on an inner surface of the dishwasher, preferably by an adhesive or adhesive tape, and the dispenser is configured to be removably attached to the mounting plate.

[0082] More preferably, the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism configured to adjust the tilt of the dispenser. This possibility of adjusting the tilt of the dispenser within the dishwasher allows the orientation of the dispenser to be adjusted such that the plane of the bottom side of the dispenser is tilted towards the liquid outlet. In this way, any detergent solution retained within the dispenser and the accumulation of detergent solution formed in the dispenser are prevented, thereby enabling the emptying of the detergent compartment.

[0083] As described above, the dispenser preferably has the form of a flat box as its overall shape, having a rear wall, a front wall, a left wall, a right wall, a top wall or top side, and a bottom wall. The top side preferably includes an opening for introducing solid detergent blocks, which can be closed by a lid; and a liquid inlet. The dispenser preferably includes a mounting mechanism on the rear wall. In its simplest form, the mounting mechanism is an adhesive or adhesive tape, by which the rear wall of the dispenser is attached to the inner wall of the dishwasher. Furthermore, preferably, the liquid outlet is arranged at the lowest point of one of the side walls, the front wall, or the rear wall. More preferably, the liquid outlet is arranged at the lowest point of one of the side walls.

[0084] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the dispenser, and in a particularly preferred embodiment of the system, the dispenser includes a front wall, wherein at least a portion of the front wall covering the detergent chamber is transparent, allowing the user to visually inspect the solid detergent contents in the dispenser.

[0085] Second implementation scheme of the distributor

[0086] In an alternative embodiment (second embodiment), this disclosure further provides a dispenser for dispensing a detergent solution made of solid detergent into a dishwasher, the dispenser comprising a liquid inlet, a detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with each other in this order, wherein the dispenser is configured to transfer all liquid collected by the dispenser from the liquid inlet to the detergent chamber to form a detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent block, transfer the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet, and allow all detergent solution to be continuously released as it is formed.

[0087] As stated above, "allowing all detergent solution to be continuously released as it forms" means that once the detergent solution is formed, the dispenser releases the detergent solution without leaving or retaining any detergent solution within the dispenser. In other words, the dispenser allows the collected water and detergent solution to flow freely from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet without obstruction and without creating a liquid level within the dispenser. The dispenser allows for the continuous release of all formed detergent solution immediately after formation, thus emptying the detergent chamber relative to the contents of the detergent solution.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment, the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element to change the net opening space of the liquid inlet.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment, one or more additional replaceable elements are provided, which are intended to be installed in the dispenser to form a liquid inlet, each of the one or more additional replaceable elements providing a specific net opening space that is different from and different from that of the first replaceable element.

[0090] The replaceable element that forms the liquid inlet defines the amount of solid detergent dissolved within a given time period. The advantage of providing a replaceable liquid inlet (i.e., a replaceable element) is that the dispenser can be adapted to the user's needs, such as the water hardness at the location where the dishwasher is operating, by replacing the replaceable element with another replaceable element having a different net opening space.

[0091] More preferably, the dispenser includes an auxiliary chamber adjacent to the detergent compartment, and wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser is disposed on the top side of the dispenser, providing an opening into the auxiliary chamber. Preferably, the auxiliary chamber adjacent to the detergent compartment is separated from the detergent compartment by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between the auxiliary chamber and the detergent compartment at the bottom.

[0092] Preferably, the liquid inlet of the dispenser provides a net opening space, wherein the dispenser is constructed such that all collected water or liquid entering the dispenser enters the dispenser via the liquid inlet.

[0093] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the dispenser is configured to contain a solid detergent block with a total weight of 400g to 600g, and provides a liquid inlet from 0.2cm... 2 up to 3.0cm 2 Preferably 0.5cm 2 Up to 2.0cm 2 The net opening space. This is achieved by replacing the replaceable element forming the liquid inlet with another replaceable element having a different net opening space than the first replaceable element. Such dispensers are configured to operate in dishwashers configured to spray water or liquid at approximately 300 L / min to 400 L / min into the washing chamber during a washing cycle, so as to allow the dispenser to produce sufficient detergent solution.

[0094] In another preferred embodiment, the detergent compartment further includes a detergent opening on the top side for introducing a solid detergent block, and the cover sealing the opening for introducing the solid detergent block when closed.

[0095] In another preferred embodiment, the detergent compartment is divided into more than one compartment by a partition wall, with fluid communication between adjacent compartments at the bottom.

[0096] In another preferred embodiment, the dispenser further includes an additional partition wall between the liquid outlet and the adjacent detergent chamber, with fluid communication maintained at the bottom between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the additional partition wall acting as a vapor barrier.

[0097] In another preferred embodiment, the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that allows the dispenser to be internally mounted in a dishwasher, wherein the mounting mechanism includes a mounting plate configured to mount on an inner surface of the dishwasher, and the dispenser is configured to be removably attached to the mounting plate.

[0098] Preferably, the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that includes means for adjusting the tilt of the dispenser when it is arranged inside the dishwasher.

[0099] As described above, the dispenser preferably has the form of a flat box as its overall shape, having a rear wall, a front wall, a left wall, a right wall, a top wall or top side, and a bottom wall. The top side preferably includes an opening for introducing solid detergent blocks, which can be closed by a lid; and a liquid inlet. The dispenser preferably includes a mounting mechanism on the rear wall. In its simplest form, the mounting mechanism is an adhesive or adhesive tape, by which the rear wall of the dispenser is attached to the inner wall of the dishwasher. Furthermore, preferably, the liquid outlet is arranged at the lowest point of one of the side walls, the front wall, or the rear wall. More preferably, the liquid outlet is arranged at the lowest point of one of the side walls.

[0100] In another preferred embodiment of the dispenser, the dispenser includes a front wall, and at least a portion of the front wall covering the detergent chamber is transparent, allowing the user to visually inspect the solid detergent contents in the dispenser.

[0101] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the dispenser is configured to contain a solid detergent block sufficient to provide detergent solution for at least 10 cleaning cycles; be removably retrofitted into a dishwasher; and, when removably mounted on the inner wall of the dishwasher's washing chamber, collect water or liquid sprayed into the washing chamber via a liquid inlet; direct said collected water or liquid to the solid detergent block contained in the dispenser, whereby a portion of the solid detergent block is dissolved and forms detergent solution; and allow all detergent solution to be continuously released as it is formed.

[0102] [Kit including dispenser]

[0103] In addition, this disclosure provides a kit that includes:

[0104] A dispenser for dispensing a detergent solution made from solid detergent into a dishwasher, the dispenser including a liquid inlet, a detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet, wherein the dispenser is configured to transfer all liquid collected by the dispenser from the liquid inlet to the detergent chamber to form a detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent block, allowing continuous release of detergent via the liquid outlet, wherein the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element; and

[0105] A first replaceable element, which is intended to be installed on the dispenser to form a liquid inlet, provides a specific net opening space.

[0106] In a preferred embodiment, the kit includes one or more additional replaceable elements intended to be installed into the dispenser to form a liquid inlet, each of the one or more additional replaceable elements providing a specific net opening space that is different from and different from that of the first replaceable element.

[0107] In another preferred embodiment, the dispenser is configured to contain a solid detergent block having a total weight of 400g to 600g, and is configured to allow for dispensing from the liquid inlet at a distance of 0.2cm by replacing the dispenser with another replaceable element. 2 up to 3.0cm 2 Preferably 0.5cm 2 Up to 2.0cm 2 Variation in net opening space. Such dispensers are configured to operate in dishwashers configured to spray water or liquid at approximately 300 L / min to 400 L / min within the washing chamber during a wash cycle, in order to allow the dispenser to produce sufficient detergent solution.

[0108] As previously described, the dispenser is constructed such that all collected water or liquid entering the dispenser enters the dispenser via the liquid inlet. According to this embodiment, the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element. The net opening space of the liquid inlet (forming the only liquid inlet of the dispenser when ready for operation), preferably designed as a replaceable element, and more preferably as a replaceable perforated plate, defines the amount of water or liquid entering the dispenser, which is the "collected water or liquid." Thus, the replaceable element defines the amount of solid detergent dissolved within a given time period. The advantage of providing a replaceable liquid inlet (i.e., a replaceable element) is that the dispenser can be adapted to the user's needs, such as the water hardness at the location where the dishwasher is operating, by replacing the replaceable element with another replaceable element having a different net opening space. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the liquid inlet is designed as a substantially flat replaceable perforated plate arranged on the top side of the dispenser and is inclined.

[0109] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the kit, the dispenser is configured to allow all detergent solution to be released continuously as it forms, meaning that the dispenser releases the detergent solution as soon as it is formed, without any detergent solution remaining or retained within the dispenser. In other words, the dispenser allows the collected water and detergent solution to pass freely from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet without obstruction and without the formation of a liquid level within the dispenser. The dispenser allows for the continuous release of all formed detergent solution immediately after formation, thus achieving emptying of the detergent chamber relative to the contents of the detergent solution.

[0110] As described above, the dispenser preferably has the form of a flat box as its overall shape, having a rear wall, a front wall, a left wall, a right wall, a top wall or top side, and a bottom wall. The top side preferably includes an opening for introducing solid detergent blocks, which can be closed by a lid; and a liquid inlet. The dispenser preferably includes a mounting mechanism on the rear wall. In its simplest form, the mounting mechanism is an adhesive or adhesive tape, by which the rear wall of the dispenser is attached to the inner wall of the dishwasher. Furthermore, preferably, the liquid outlet is arranged at the lowest point of one of the side walls, the front wall, or the rear wall. More preferably, the liquid outlet is arranged at the lowest point of one of the side walls.

[0111] In another preferred embodiment of the kit, the dispenser includes a front wall, and at least a portion of the front wall covering the detergent compartment is transparent, allowing the user to visually inspect the solid detergent contents in the dispenser.

[0112] [method]

[0113] This topic also provides a method for dispensing detergent solution from a dispenser in a dishwasher capable of performing cleaning cycles, each cleaning cycle including a washing and rinsing cycle, the method comprising:

[0114] i. Place one or more solid detergent blocks in the detergent chamber of the dispenser, each solid detergent block containing detergent and rinsing agent in an amount sufficient to provide detergent solution for at least 10 cleaning cycles;

[0115] ii. Collect a portion of the water or liquid sprayed in the dishwasher during the washing and rinsing cycles, and use the collected water to form a detergent solution in the detergent compartment of the dispenser by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent;

[0116] iii. During the formation of the detergent solution, all the detergent solution is continuously released from the dispenser;

[0117] iv. The conductivity of the washing liquid is measured by a conductivity sensor in a battery-powered device located inside the dishwasher.

[0118] v. The measured conductivity value is provided to the control unit of the battery-powered device for processing.

[0119] vi. If the conductivity value is lower than a preset threshold, the control unit generates a signal to indicate that the dispenser must be refilled with solid detergent blocks, independent of the dishwasher display signal.

[0120] According to the method of this subject matter, a detergent solution can be dispensed from each load of solid detergent contained in a dispenser for multiple cleaning cycles. The detergent solution is prepared by the dispenser by passively collecting water or liquid sprayed inside the dishwasher and channeling it through the dispenser, where the water or liquid comes into contact with the solid detergent, which dissolves in a substantially uniform manner. "Passive" means that no additional force or energy is required to operate the dispenser or dishwasher to collect water and direct its flow to the solid detergent contained in the dispenser to form the detergent solution by dissolving the solid detergent, and further dispensing the detergent solution via a liquid outlet. The resulting detergent solution is continuously released into the dishwasher's wash chamber, thus providing a substantially consistent amount and concentration of detergent solution for each cleaning cycle across multiple cleaning cycles. Therefore, according to the method of this subject matter, the need to add dishwasher detergent before each cleaning cycle is eliminated.

[0121] Importantly, according to the method of this subject matter, all (or substantially all) of the detergent solution is released from the dispenser once it has formed. This means that, compared to existing examples of solid detergent dispensers, no detergent solution is retained or trapped within the dispenser, and a free, unobstructed path is provided within the dispenser for the detergent solution that is forming, and no liquid level is formed within the dispenser. This allows for the continuous release of the formed detergent solution immediately after formation, enabling the detergent chamber to be emptied relative to the contents of the detergent solution. This continuous release of the detergent solution is advantageous because it prevents the swelling of solid detergent blocks, which could otherwise lead to blockage or damage to the dispenser. The method of this subject matter also ensures economically and environmentally sustainable operation and product use by avoiding oversupply of the product, which would occur, for example, if a user simply places multiple small loads of household-type dishwasher tablets into the dishwasher tub.

[0122] According to the method of this subject matter, the conductivity of the detergent is measured by a conductivity sensor, and the corresponding data is processed. If the conductivity value is lower than a preset threshold, a signal independent of the dishwasher display is generated. This signal instructs the user that the dispenser must be refilled with solid detergent (product depletion alarm). This product depletion alarm ensures that washing does not occur in the event of an insufficiently dispensed level of detergent, thus ensuring strong product performance and accurate dosage, which guarantees both cleaning and hygiene results as well as food safety. These steps are performed by a separate device independent of the dishwasher's power supply. The signal can be displayed by a battery-powered device, preferably in the form of an optical signal. Alternatively, the signal can be transmitted wirelessly by a battery-powered device to an external device located outside the dishwasher for display by the external device. The advantage of using a separate and retrofittable device (such as a dispenser and a battery-powered device including a control unit and a conductivity sensor) is that once the method of this subject matter is implemented, it is not necessary to replace the technically simple dishwasher, but such a separate device can be used to upgrade such an existing dishwasher.

[0123] In a preferred embodiment, the method includes the following steps a to c, in any order, prior to steps i to vi:

[0124] a. Select the specific clear opening space for the liquid inlet of the dispenser;

[0125] b. Removably integrate the dispenser into the dishwasher; and

[0126] c. Removably retrofit a battery-powered device, including a control unit and a conductivity sensor, into a dishwasher.

[0127] The net opening space of the liquid inlet defines the amount of water or liquid entering the dispenser, and thus the amount of solid detergent dissolved within a given time period. The option to select from different liquid inlets (because the liquid inlets are replaceable) and different net opening spaces is advantageous, as the sprayed water or liquid flowing into the dispenser can be adapted to the user's needs, for example, taking into account the hardness of the water where the dishwasher is located during operation. Higher water hardness requires more detergent solution to be produced within a given time limit, meaning the dispenser needs to collect more water or liquid compared to lower water hardness, which is achieved through a larger net opening space. Therefore, in a preferred method, the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element, and the method further includes the step of changing the specific net opening space of the liquid inlet by replacing the replaceable element with another replaceable element having a different specific net opening space.

[0128] This disclosure is explained in more detail in the following examples.

[0129] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a dispenser 1 to be arranged in a dishwasher according to the system of this subject. The system according to this subject includes a dispenser 1 for dispensing detergent solution and a battery-powered device for measuring the conductivity of the detergent solution. Reference is made below. Figure 5 Let's discuss an example of this system.

[0130] Dispenser 1 is typically designed as a flat box with a rear wall, front wall, left wall, right wall, top wall (or top side), and bottom wall. The top side includes an opening 9 for introducing solid detergent tablets, which can be closed by a cover 8. The top side of dispenser 1 also includes a liquid inlet 2. At the rear wall, dispenser 1 includes a mounting mechanism for attachment to the inner wall of a dishwasher. A liquid outlet 5 is located at the lowest point of one of the side walls 10.

[0131] Dispenser 1 includes a transparent window in the front wall, allowing the user to visually inspect the interior of dispenser 1 and thereby visually inspect the amount of solid detergent present in dispenser 1.

[0132] The dispenser 1 shown in the figure also includes a liquid inlet 2; a pre-treatment chamber 3; a detergent chamber 4; a liquid outlet 5; a partition wall 6 dividing the detergent chamber 4 into several compartments, each compartment containing solid detergent blocks (not shown); and an additional partition wall 7 acting as a vapor barrier (in... Figure 1 (Not visible in the middle). The pre-flush chamber 3 is separated from the adjacent compartment of the detergent compartment 4 by a partition wall. All partition walls provide passages at the bottom so that all compartments of the pre-flush chamber 3 and the detergent compartment 4 are in liquid communication with each other, and the liquid outlet 5 is arranged in the bottom of the side wall of the dispenser 1 opposite to the pre-flush chamber 3.

[0133] The detergent chamber 4, divided into three compartments, can hold solid detergent blocks. A liquid inlet 2 is in fluid communication with the detergent chamber 4 via a pre-flush chamber 3 and can collect water sprayed into the dishwasher during the wash and rinse cycles. The collected water is allowed to flow into the pre-flush chamber 3 and then into the detergent chamber 4 to form a detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent. A liquid outlet 5, located on the left side wall of the dispenser 1, is in fluid communication with the detergent chamber 4 and continuously releases the detergent solution from the chamber once it has been formed. The dispenser 1 is configured to perform its function automatically and is not electrically driven.

[0134] Dispenser 1 is installed on the inner wall of the dishwasher's washing chamber, advantageously with its bottom plane angled, for example, 1° to 3°, toward the liquid outlet 5. This allows for the continuous release of all formed detergent solution, emptying the detergent chamber 4 relative to the contents of the detergent solution and generally emptying dispenser 1, and preventing any detergent solution from remaining in dispenser 1, and achieving the emptying of detergent chamber 4 via liquid outlet 5.

[0135] Detergent chamber 4 can accommodate solid detergent blocks. Detergent chamber 4 includes a detergent opening on the top side to receive solid detergent blocks (the detergent opening is located at...). Figure 1 (Not visible in the image). Dispenser 1 also includes a cover 8 to close the detergent opening to retain the received block. The cover 8 seals the detergent opening when closed, thereby preventing liquid sprayed into the washing chamber from flowing in through the detergent opening. The only opening for allowing collected water or liquid into dispenser 1 is via liquid inlet 2.

[0136] Liquid inlet 2 is positioned and oriented to passively or naturally collect water sprayed into the dishwasher during the wash and rinse cycles (or any cycle in which water is sprayed into the dishwasher), and to passively or naturally allow the collected water to flow into detergent chamber 4 to form a detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent block. “Passive” or “natural” means that no additional force or energy is required to operate the dispenser or dishwasher to collect water and direct its flow into detergent chamber 4 to form a detergent solution by dissolving solid detergent, and further to dispense the detergent solution via liquid outlet 5.

[0137] Liquid inlet 2 is required to partially expose the solid detergent placed in detergent compartment 4 to the water sprayed into the dishwasher. Liquid inlet 2 is the only opening for liquid entry, allowing all collected water or liquid entering the dispenser to enter the dispenser via liquid inlet 2.

[0138] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Another perspective view of the dispenser shown, taken from the right. Dispenser 1 includes a liquid inlet 2; a pre-treatment chamber 3; a detergent chamber 4; a liquid outlet 5; partition walls 6 that subdivide the detergent chamber 4 into several compartments, each containing solid detergent clumps (not shown); and additional partition walls 7 that act as a vapor barrier. Liquid outlet 5... Figure 2 It is not visible in the perspective view shown because the frame (used to keep the transparent window) on the front wall of dispenser 1 covers the view of liquid outlet 5.

[0139] As described, liquid inlet 2 collects water sprayed into the dishwasher. The collected water enters pre-flush chamber 3 and is then transferred to detergent chamber 4. Preferably, liquid inlet 2 is formed by a replaceable perforated plate 2 as shown. The net opening space of the replaceable perforated plate 2 defines the amount of water or liquid entering dispenser 1, such that all collected water or liquid entering the dispenser enters the dispenser via said liquid inlet 2. The replaceable element or perforated plate forming liquid inlet 2 provides a specific net opening space. The replaceable element or perforated plate forming liquid inlet 2 can be replaced by different elements with different net opening spaces to accommodate liquid inflow into dispenser 1 to suit user needs, such as the hardness of the water at the location where the dishwasher is operating. In the embodiment shown in the figure, perforated plate 2 is angled to prevent dirt buildup.

[0140] As described, the detergent chamber 4 is configured to contain solid detergent blocks. The detergent chamber 4 includes a detergent opening 9 on the top side of the dispenser 1 for introducing solid detergent blocks into the detergent chamber 4. Furthermore, the cover ( Figure 2 (Not shown in the image) is arranged to close the detergent opening 9.

[0141] Figure 3 This is another view of the dispenser according to one embodiment of this topic. The lower figure is... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The figure shows a top view of dispenser 1. The top side of the dispenser is mainly covered by a cap that closes the detergent chamber. Additionally, the figure shows the liquid inlet 2, which is designed as a perforated plate.

[0142] Figure 3 The upper view is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser 1 along line AA shown in the lower view. The dispenser 1 includes a liquid inlet 2 designed as a perforated plate; a pre-treatment chamber 3; a detergent chamber 4 with three compartments separated by partition walls 6; an additional partition wall 7; a liquid outlet 5 arranged in the left side wall 10; and a cover 8 covering the detergent opening.

[0143] As described above, the liquid inlet 2, designed as a perforated plate, is in fluid communication with the detergent chamber 4 via the pre-flush chamber 3. The liquid inlet 2 collects water that flows into the pre-flush chamber 3 and then into the detergent chamber 4, which contains solid detergent blocks (not shown), to form a detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent.

[0144] Figure 3The upper part of the diagram shows the fluid communication between the pre-dispenser chamber 3, the detergent chamber 4, and the liquid outlet 5. This fluid communication is achieved by the partition wall between the pre-dispenser chamber 3 and the detergent chamber 4, the partition wall 6 dividing the detergent chamber 4 into compartments, and the additional partition wall 7, each having a flow opening at the bottom of the dispenser 1. This feature allows for the continuous release of the detergent solution formed in the detergent chamber 4 once it is formed. As can be shown in the diagram, once the detergent solution is formed, the dispenser 1 releases the detergent solution without any residue or retention within the dispenser 1. That is, the dispenser allows the collected water and detergent solution to pass freely from the detergent chamber 4 to the liquid outlet 5 located at the bottom of the side wall 10 without obstruction, and no liquid level is formed within the dispenser 1.

[0145] The embodiment of the dispenser 1 shown in the figure also includes an additional partition wall 7 between the liquid outlet 5 and the adjacent upstream compartment of the detergent chamber 4. The purpose of the additional partition wall 7 upstream of the liquid outlet 5 is to function as a vapor barrier. Vapor that may enter the liquid outlet 5 may condense at the additional partition wall 7 before it can reach the solid detergent block located in the detergent chamber 4, which may result in undesirable wetting of the solid detergent. The additional partition wall 7 is arranged at a small distance and parallel to the side wall 10 including the liquid outlet 5, thereby forming an additional narrow chamber between the additional partition wall and the side wall.

[0146] Figure 4 It is a graph showing the conductivity measurement of the concentration of solid detergent in the solution in the dishwasher tub, and also shows visual control of the amount of remaining solid product in the dispenser.

[0147] To check the product depletion alarm, three solid detergent blocks, each with a total weight of 525g, were filled into a dispenser placed inside the dishwasher under the counter. These solid detergent blocks contained two reagents: detergent and rinse aid. The dispenser used in the experiment was... Figures 1 to 3 The type shown. The net opening space of the liquid inlet 2 of the dispenser is 1.0 cm. 2 In addition, specific sensors are placed inside the dishwasher tub to measure the conductivity of the detergent solution. The dishwasher begins running multiple cycles, each consisting of a 70-second wash cycle and a 10-second rinse cycle, with the temperature at 60°C in the wash cycle and 83°C in the rinse cycle. During the wash cycle, the detergent solution is circulated at a rate of 350 L / min, and during the rinse cycle, 2 to 3 L / rinse cycle of water is sprayed onto the dishes.

[0148] Since conductivity represents the concentration of solid detergent in a solution, the conductivity of the detergent solution in the dishwasher tub is measured using a specific sensor. Simultaneously, the amount of remaining solid detergent clumps in the dispenser is visually monitored. Changes in conductivity over time were observed to correlate with the increasing dissolution of the clumps; that is, conductivity is correlated with the visual detection of clump disappearance. Figure 4 The arrows indicate the points in time when the total amount of solid detergent in the dispenser becomes quite low. Initially, conductivity increases rapidly and remains constant at approximately 3.5 S / cm for about 15,000 s. Then, conductivity decreases to approximately 1.5 S / cm, corresponding to a total of 200 g of solid detergent remaining in the dispenser (left arrow). After a further decrease, conductivity is approximately 0.7 S / cm to 0.8 S / cm, corresponding to a total of 50 g of solid detergent remaining in the dispenser out of the initial total load (525 g) of solid detergent loaded before the experiment began (right arrow). The experiment demonstrates that the conductivity signal is an accurate measure of the solid product level in the dispenser.

[0149] These tests demonstrate that solid detergent products dissolve in a controlled manner via a dispenser, thereby enabling conductivity measurements and corresponding product depletion alarms (mediated by a battery-powered device including a control unit and a conductivity sensor) based on the same measurement principle to indicate when the product level in the dishwasher is too low and when a refill of solid detergent products is needed.

[0150] The transmission rate for triggering alarms can be freely selected, allowing users of the remote alarm system to reload the product before it is consumed in the dispenser.

[0151] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of an embodiment of a system 20 to be arranged in a dishwasher according to one embodiment of this subject matter. System 20 includes a dispenser 1 for dispensing detergent solution and a battery-powered device 21 for measuring the conductivity of the detergent solution.

[0152] The battery-powered device 21 includes a control unit 22 and a conductivity sensor 23. The battery-powered device 21, control unit 22, and conductivity sensor 23, according to various embodiments of this subject matter, are discussed above as "battery-powered device," "control unit," and "conductivity sensor," respectively. In one embodiment, the battery-powered device 21 is configured to operate independently of the dishwasher and can be removably retrofitted into it. When the battery-powered device 21 is removably installed in the dishwasher, the conductivity sensor 23 is configured to measure the conductivity of the detergent and provide the measured conductivity value to the control unit 22. The control unit 22 is configured to process the conductivity value and, if the conductivity value is below a preset threshold, generate a signal to instruct the dispenser 1 to be refilled with solid detergent blocks. The signal is independent of the dishwasher display.

[0153] Example

[0154] 1. An exemplary system for dispensing a detergent solution made from solid detergent into a dishwasher, the dishwasher including a washing chamber and capable of performing cleaning cycles, each cleaning cycle including a washing and rinsing cycle;

[0155] The system includes:

[0156] Dispenser for dissolving solid detergent blocks and dispensing detergent solution, wherein the dispenser is configured to:

[0157] - A solid detergent block containing enough detergent solution to provide for at least 10 cleaning cycles.

[0158] - It can be removably retrofitted into the dishwasher, and

[0159] When removably mounted on the inner wall of the washing chamber of the dishwasher,

[0160] - Water or liquid sprayed into the washing chamber is collected by a liquid inlet.

[0161] - The collected water or liquid is directed to the solid detergent block contained in the dispenser, whereby a portion of the solid detergent block is dissolved to form a detergent solution, and

[0162] - Allows all detergent solutions to be released continuously as they are formed;

[0163] A battery-powered device, comprising a control unit and a conductivity sensor, wherein the battery-powered device is configured to operate independently of the dishwasher and can be removably retrofitted into the dishwasher, and, when the battery-powered device is removably installed in the dishwasher, the conductivity sensor is configured to measure the conductivity of the detergent and provide the measured conductivity value to the control unit, the control unit being configured to process the conductivity value and, if the conductivity value is below a preset threshold, generate a signal to instruct the dispenser to be refilled with solid detergent blocks; wherein the signal is independent of the dishwasher display.

[0164] 2. The system according to embodiment 1, wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser provides a net opening space, wherein the dispenser is constructed such that all collected water or liquid entering the dispenser enters the dispenser via the liquid inlet.

[0165] 3. The system according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element.

[0166] 4. The system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the dispenser comprises a liquid inlet, a pre-treatment chamber, a detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with each other in this order, wherein the dispenser is configured to transfer all collected water or liquid from the liquid inlet to the pre-treatment chamber, from the pre-treatment chamber to the detergent chamber to form the detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent block, and to transfer the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet.

[0167] 5. The system according to embodiment 4, wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser is arranged on the top side of the pre-chamber and is designed as a replaceable element.

[0168] 6. The system according to any one of Embodiments 4 or 5, wherein the detergent chamber includes a detergent opening and a cover, the detergent opening being on the top side for introducing the solid detergent block, and the cover sealing the opening for introducing the solid detergent block when closed.

[0169] 7. The system according to any one of embodiments 4 to 6, wherein the pre-treatment chamber is arranged adjacent to the detergent chamber and separated from the detergent chamber by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between the pre-treatment chamber and the detergent chamber at the bottom.

[0170] 8. The system according to any one of embodiments 4 to 7, wherein the detergent chamber is divided into more than one compartment by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between adjacent compartments at the bottom.

[0171] 9. The system according to any one of embodiments 4 to 8, wherein the dispenser further includes an additional partition wall between the liquid outlet and the adjacent detergent chamber, with fluid communication maintained at the bottom between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the additional partition wall acting as a vapor barrier.

[0172] 10. The system according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the dispenser is configured to contain a solid detergent block having a total weight of 400g to 600g, and provides the liquid inlet from 0.2cm... 2 up to 3.0cm 2 The net open space.

[0173] 11. The system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that allows the dispenser to be internally mounted in the dishwasher, wherein the mounting mechanism includes a mounting plate configured to be mounted on an inner surface of the dishwasher, and the dispenser is configured to be detachably attached to the mounting plate.

[0174] 12. The system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism, the mounting mechanism including means for adjusting the tilt of the dispenser when the dispenser is arranged inside the dishwasher.

[0175] 13. The system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the dispenser includes a front wall, and wherein at least a portion of the front wall covering the detergent chamber is transparent.

[0176] 14. The system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the system is configured to represent a component kit for retrofitting a dishwasher.

[0177] 15. An exemplary dispenser for dispensing a detergent solution made of solid detergent into a dishwasher, wherein the dispenser is configured to:

[0178] - A solid detergent block containing enough detergent solution to provide for at least 10 cleaning cycles.

[0179] - It can be removably retrofitted into the dishwasher, and,

[0180] When removably mounted on the inner wall of the washing chamber of the dishwasher,

[0181] - Water or liquid sprayed into the washing chamber is collected by a liquid inlet.

[0182] - The collected water or liquid is directed to the solid detergent block contained in the dispenser, whereby a portion of the solid detergent block is dissolved to form a detergent solution, and

[0183] - Allows all detergent solutions to be released continuously as they are formed.

[0184] 16. The dispenser according to embodiment 15, wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser provides a net opening space, wherein the dispenser is constructed such that all collected water or liquid entering the dispenser enters the dispenser via the liquid inlet.

[0185] 17. The dispenser according to embodiment 15 or 16, wherein the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element.

[0186] 18. A dispenser according to any one of embodiments 15 to 17, wherein the dispenser comprises a liquid inlet, a pre-treatment chamber, a detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with each other in this order, wherein the dispenser is configured to transfer all collected water or liquid from the liquid inlet to the pre-treatment chamber, from the pre-treatment chamber to the detergent chamber to form the detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent block, and to transfer the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet.

[0187] 19. The dispenser according to embodiment 18, wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser is arranged on the top side of the pre-chamber and is designed as a replaceable element.

[0188] 20. The dispenser according to any one of Embodiments 18 or 19, wherein the detergent chamber further comprises a detergent opening and a cover, the detergent opening being on the top side for introducing the solid detergent block, the cover sealing the opening for introducing the solid detergent block when closed.

[0189] 21. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 18 to 20, wherein the pre-dispensing chamber is arranged adjacent to and separated from the detergent chamber by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between the pre-dispensing chamber and the detergent chamber at the bottom.

[0190] 22. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 18 to 21, wherein the detergent chamber is divided into more than one compartment by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between adjacent compartments at the bottom.

[0191] 23. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 18 to 22, the dispenser further comprising an additional partition wall between the liquid outlet and an adjacent detergent chamber, wherein fluid communication is maintained at the bottom between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the additional partition wall acting as a vapor barrier.

[0192] 24. A dispenser according to any one of Examples 15 to 23, wherein the dispenser is configured to contain a solid detergent block having a total weight of 400g to 600g, and provides the liquid inlet from 0.2cm... 2 up to 3.0cm 2 The net open space.

[0193] 25. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 15 to 24, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that allows the dispenser to be internally mounted in the dishwasher, wherein the mounting mechanism includes a mounting plate configured to be mounted on an inner surface of the dishwasher, and the dispenser is configured to be detachably attached to the mounting plate.

[0194] 26. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 15 to 25, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism, the mounting mechanism including means for adjusting the tilt of the dispenser when the dispenser is arranged inside the dishwasher.

[0195] 27. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 15 to 26, wherein the dispenser includes a front wall, and wherein at least a portion of the front wall covering the detergent chamber is transparent.

[0196] 28. A dispenser for dispensing a detergent solution made of solid detergent into a dishwasher, the dispenser comprising a liquid inlet, a detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with each other in this order, wherein the dispenser is configured to transfer all liquid collected by the dispenser from the liquid inlet to the detergent chamber to form the detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent block, transfer the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet, and allow all detergent solution to be continuously released as it is formed.

[0197] 29. The dispenser according to embodiment 28, wherein the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element for changing the net opening space of the liquid inlet.

[0198] 30. The dispenser according to embodiment 28 or 29, wherein the dispenser includes an additional chamber adjacent to the detergent chamber, and wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser is disposed on the top side of the dispenser, providing an opening into the additional chamber.

[0199] 31. A dispenser according to any one of Examples 28 to 30, wherein the dispenser is configured to contain a solid detergent block having a total weight of 400g to 600g, and provides the liquid inlet from 0.2cm... 2 up to 3.0cm 2 The net open space.

[0200] 32. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 28 to 31, wherein the detergent chamber further includes a detergent opening and a cover, the detergent opening being on the top side for introducing the solid detergent block, and the cover sealing the opening for introducing the solid detergent block when closed.

[0201] 33. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 28 to 32, wherein the detergent chamber is divided into more than one compartment by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between adjacent compartments at the bottom.

[0202] 34. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 28 to 33, the dispenser further comprising an additional partition wall between the liquid outlet and an adjacent detergent chamber, wherein fluid communication is maintained at the bottom between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the additional partition wall acting as a vapor barrier.

[0203] 35. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 28 to 34, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that allows the dispenser to be internally mounted in the dishwasher, wherein the mounting mechanism includes a mounting plate configured to be mounted on an inner surface of the dishwasher, and the dispenser is configured to be detachably attached to the mounting plate.

[0204] 36. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 28 to 35, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism, the mounting mechanism including means for adjusting the tilt of the dispenser when the dispenser is arranged inside the dishwasher.

[0205] 37. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 28 to 36, wherein the dispenser includes a front wall, and wherein at least a portion of the front wall covering the detergent chamber is transparent.

[0206] 38. The dispenser according to any one of embodiments 28 to 37, wherein the dispenser is configured to:

[0207] - A solid detergent block containing enough detergent solution to provide for at least 10 cleaning cycles.

[0208] - It can be removably retrofitted into the dishwasher, and,

[0209] When removably mounted on the inner wall of the washing chamber of the dishwasher,

[0210] - Water or liquid sprayed into the washing chamber is collected by a liquid inlet.

[0211] - The collected water or liquid is directed to the solid detergent block contained in the dispenser, whereby a portion of the solid detergent block is dissolved to form a detergent solution, and

[0212] - Allows all detergent solutions to be released continuously as they are formed.

[0213] 39. An exemplary kit, the kit comprising:

[0214] A dispenser for dispensing a detergent solution formed from solid detergent into a dishwasher, the dispenser including a liquid inlet, a detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet, wherein the dispenser is configured to pass all liquid collected by the dispenser from the liquid inlet to the detergent chamber to form the detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent block, allowing continuous release of the detergent via the liquid outlet, wherein the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element; and

[0215] A first replaceable element, which is intended to be installed on the dispenser to form the liquid inlet, provides a specific net opening space.

[0216] 40. The kit according to embodiment 39, the kit including one or more additional replaceable elements, the one or more additional replaceable elements being designed to be installed on the dispenser to form the liquid inlet, each of the one or more additional replaceable elements providing a specific net opening space that is different from and different from that of the first replaceable element.

[0217] 41. The kit according to embodiment 39 or 40, wherein the dispenser is configured to receive a solid detergent block having a total weight of 400g to 600g, and is configured to allow for a distance of 0.2cm relative to the liquid inlet by replacing the replaceable element with another replaceable element. 2 up to 3.0cm 2 The change in the net opening space.

[0218] 42. The kit according to any one of embodiments 39 to 41, wherein the dispenser includes an additional chamber adjacent to the detergent compartment, and wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser is disposed on the top side of the dispenser, providing an opening into the additional chamber.

[0219] 43. The kit according to any one of embodiments 39 to 42, wherein the detergent compartment further includes a detergent opening and a cover, the detergent opening being on the top side for introducing the solid detergent block, the cover sealing the opening for introducing the solid detergent block when closed.

[0220] 44. The kit according to any one of embodiments 39 to 43, wherein the detergent chamber is divided into more than one compartment by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between adjacent compartments at the bottom.

[0221] 45. The kit according to any one of embodiments 39 to 44, wherein the dispenser further includes an additional partition wall between the liquid outlet and the adjacent detergent chamber, with fluid communication maintained at the bottom between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the additional partition wall acting as a vapor barrier.

[0222] 46. ​​The kit according to any one of embodiments 39 to 45, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that allows the dispenser to be internally mounted in the dishwasher, wherein the mounting mechanism includes a mounting plate configured to be mounted on an inner surface of the dishwasher, and the dispenser is configured to be removably attached to the mounting plate.

[0223] 47. The kit according to any one of embodiments 39 to 46, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that includes means for adjusting the tilt of the dispenser when the dispenser is arranged inside the dishwasher.

[0224] 48. The kit according to any one of embodiments 39 to 47, wherein the dispenser includes a front wall, and wherein at least a portion of the front wall covering the detergent compartment is transparent.

[0225] 49. An exemplary method for dispensing detergent solution from a dispenser in a dishwasher, the dishwasher being capable of performing cleaning cycles, each cleaning cycle including a washing and rinsing cycle, the method comprising:

[0226] i. Place one or more solid detergent blocks in the detergent chamber of the dispenser, each solid detergent block containing detergent and rinsing agent in an amount sufficient to provide detergent solution for at least 10 cleaning cycles;

[0227] ii. During the washing and rinsing cycle, a portion of the water or liquid sprayed in the dishwasher is collected, and the collected water is used to form a detergent solution in the detergent chamber of the dispenser by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent;

[0228] iii. During the formation of the detergent solution, all of the detergent solution is continuously released from the dispenser;

[0229] iv. The conductivity of the washing liquid is measured by a conductivity sensor of a battery-powered device arranged inside the dishwasher.

[0230] v. The measured conductivity value is provided to the control unit of the battery-powered device for processing.

[0231] vi. If the conductivity value is lower than a preset threshold, the control unit generates a signal to instruct the dispenser to be refilled with solid detergent blocks, and displays the signal independently of the dishwasher.

[0232] 50. The method according to Example 49, prior to steps i. to vi., includes the following steps a. to c. in any order:

[0233] a. Select and install the specific net opening space of the liquid inlet of the dispenser;

[0234] b. Removably adapt the dispenser into the dishwasher; and

[0235] c. A battery-powered device, including a control unit and a conductivity sensor, can be removably retrofitted into the dishwasher.

[0236] 51. The method according to embodiment 49 or 50, wherein the signal is displayed by the battery-powered device, preferably in the form of an optical signal.

[0237] 52. The method according to embodiment 49 or 50, wherein the signal is transmitted wirelessly by the battery-powered device to an external device located outside the dishwasher for display by the external device.

[0238] 53. The method according to any one of embodiments 49 to 52, wherein the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element, and wherein the method further comprises the step of changing the specific net opening space of the liquid inlet by replacing the replaceable element with another replaceable element having a different specific net opening space.

[0239] 54. The system according to any one of Examples 1 to 14 is used for the removable modification and / or operation of a dishwasher having said system.

[0240] 55. The dispenser according to any one of Embodiments 15 to 38 or the kit according to any one of Embodiments 39 to 48 is used for the removable modification and / or operation of a dishwasher having said dispenser.

[0241] 56. A dishwasher comprising a system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 14, a dispenser according to any one of embodiments 15 to 38, or a kit according to any one of embodiments 39 to 48, or wherein the dishwasher is configured to perform the method according to any one of embodiments 49 to 53.

[0242] List of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0243] 1 Distributor

[0244] 2 Liquid Inlet

[0245] 3 Pre-construction / Additional Room

[0246] 4 Detergent Room

[0247] 5 Liquid outlets

[0248] 6 partition walls

[0249] 7. Additional partition walls (vapor barriers)

[0250] 8 lids

[0251] 9 Detergent opening

[0252] 10 sidewalls (including liquid outlet 5)

[0253] This application is intended to cover modifications or variations of the subject matter. It should be understood that the above description is illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention should be determined by reference to the appended claims and the full scope of their authorized equivalents.

Claims

1. A system for dispensing a detergent solution made from solid detergent into a dishwasher, the dishwasher including a washing chamber and capable of performing cleaning cycles, each cleaning cycle including a washing and rinsing cycle, the system comprising: Dispenser for dissolving solid detergent blocks and dispensing detergent solution, wherein the dispenser is configured to: - A solid detergent block containing enough detergent solution to provide for at least 10 cleaning cycles. - It can be removably retrofitted into the dishwasher, and, When removably mounted on the inner wall of the washing chamber of the dishwasher, - Water or liquid sprayed into the washing chamber is collected by a liquid inlet. - The collected water or liquid is directed to the solid detergent block contained in the dispenser, whereby a portion of the solid detergent block is dissolved to form a detergent solution, and - Allows all detergent solutions to be released continuously as they are formed; and A battery-powered device includes a control unit and a conductivity sensor, wherein the battery-powered device is configured to operate independently of the dishwasher and can be removably retrofitted into the dishwasher, and, when the battery-powered device is removably installed in the dishwasher, the conductivity sensor is configured to measure the conductivity of the detergent and provide the measured conductivity value to the control unit, the control unit being configured to process the conductivity value and, if the conductivity value is below a preset threshold, generate a signal to indicate that the dispenser must be refilled with solid detergent blocks, and the signal is independent of the dishwasher display.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser provides a net opening space, wherein the dispenser is configured such that all collected water or liquid entering the dispenser enters the dispenser via the liquid inlet.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element.

4. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the dispenser comprises a liquid inlet, a pre-treatment chamber, a detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with each other in this order, wherein the dispenser is configured to transfer all collected water or liquid from the liquid inlet to the pre-treatment chamber, from the pre-treatment chamber to the detergent chamber to form the detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent block, and to transfer the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser is disposed on the top side of the pre-containment chamber and is designed as a replaceable element.

6. The system according to any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the detergent chamber includes a detergent opening and a cover, the detergent opening being on the top side for introducing the solid detergent block, and the cover sealing the opening for introducing the solid detergent block when closed.

7. The system according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the pre-treatment chamber is arranged adjacent to the detergent chamber and separated from the detergent chamber by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between the pre-treatment chamber and the detergent chamber at the bottom.

8. The system according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the detergent chamber is divided into more than one compartment by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between adjacent compartments at the bottom.

9. The system according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the dispenser further comprises an additional partition wall between the liquid outlet and the adjacent detergent chamber, wherein fluid communication is maintained at the bottom between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the additional partition wall acting as a vapor barrier.

10. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the dispenser is configured to contain a solid detergent block having a total weight of 400 g to 600 g, and provides the liquid inlet from 0.2 cm... 2 up to 3.0cm 2 The net open space.

11. The system of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that allows the dispenser to be internally mounted in the dishwasher, wherein the mounting mechanism includes a mounting plate configured to be mounted on an inner surface of the dishwasher, and the dispenser is configured to be detachably attached to the mounting plate.

12. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism, the mounting mechanism including means for adjusting the tilt of the dispenser when the dispenser is arranged inside the dishwasher.

13. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the dispenser includes a front wall, and wherein at least a portion of the front wall covering the detergent chamber is transparent.

14. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the system is configured to represent a component kit for retrofitting a dishwasher.

15. A dispenser for dispensing a detergent solution made of solid detergent into a dishwasher, wherein the dispenser is configured to: - A solid detergent block containing enough detergent solution to provide for at least 10 cleaning cycles. - It can be removably retrofitted into the dishwasher, and, When removably mounted on the inner wall of the washing chamber of the dishwasher, - Water or liquid sprayed into the washing chamber is collected by a liquid inlet. - The collected water or liquid is directed to the solid detergent block contained in the dispenser, whereby a portion of the solid detergent block is dissolved to form a detergent solution, and - Allows all detergent solutions to be released continuously as they are formed.

16. The dispenser of claim 15, wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser provides a net opening space, wherein the dispenser is constructed such that all collected water or liquid entering the dispenser enters the dispenser via the liquid inlet.

17. The dispenser according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element.

18. The dispenser according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the dispenser comprises a liquid inlet, a pre-treatment chamber, a detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with each other in this order, wherein the dispenser is configured to transfer all collected water or liquid from the liquid inlet to the pre-treatment chamber, from the pre-treatment chamber to the detergent chamber to form the detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent block, and to transfer the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet.

19. The dispenser of claim 18, wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser is disposed on the top side of the pre-chamber and is designed as a replaceable element.

20. The dispenser according to any one of claims 18 or 19, wherein the detergent chamber further comprises a detergent opening and a cover, the detergent opening being on the top side for introducing the solid detergent block, the cover sealing the opening for introducing the solid detergent block when closed.

21. The dispenser according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the pre-dispensing chamber is arranged adjacent to and separated from the detergent chamber by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between the pre-dispensing chamber and the detergent chamber at the bottom.

22. The dispenser according to any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein the detergent chamber is divided into more than one compartment by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between adjacent compartments at the bottom.

23. The dispenser according to any one of claims 18 to 22, the dispenser further comprising an additional partition wall between the liquid outlet and an adjacent detergent chamber, wherein fluid communication is maintained at the bottom between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the additional partition wall acting as a vapor barrier.

24. The dispenser according to any one of claims 15 to 23, wherein the dispenser is configured to contain a solid detergent block having a total weight of 400 g to 600 g, and provides the liquid inlet from 0.2 cm... 2 up to 3.0cm 2 The net open space.

25. The dispenser according to any one of claims 15 to 24, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that allows the dispenser to be internally mounted in the dishwasher, wherein the mounting mechanism includes a mounting plate configured to be mounted on an inner surface of the dishwasher, and the dispenser is configured to be removably attached to the mounting plate.

26. The dispenser according to any one of claims 15 to 25, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism, the mounting mechanism including means for adjusting the tilt of the dispenser when the dispenser is arranged inside the dishwasher.

27. The dispenser according to any one of claims 15 to 26, wherein the dispenser includes a front wall, and wherein at least a portion of the front wall covering the detergent compartment is transparent.

28. A dispenser for dispensing a detergent solution made of solid detergent into a dishwasher, the dispenser comprising a liquid inlet, a detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with each other in this order, wherein the dispenser is configured to transfer all liquid collected by the dispenser from the liquid inlet to the detergent chamber to form the detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent block, transfer the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet, and allow all detergent solution to be continuously released as it is formed.

29. The dispenser of claim 28, wherein the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element for changing the net opening space of the liquid inlet.

30. The dispenser of claim 28 or 29, wherein the dispenser includes an additional chamber adjacent to the detergent compartment, and wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser is disposed on the top side of the dispenser, providing an opening into the additional chamber.

31. The dispenser according to any one of claims 28 to 30, wherein the dispenser is configured to receive a solid detergent block having a total weight of 400 g to 600 g, and provides the liquid inlet from 0.2 cm... 2 up to 3.0cm 2 The net open space.

32. The dispenser according to any one of claims 28 to 31, wherein the detergent chamber further comprises a detergent opening and a cover, the detergent opening being on the top side for introducing the solid detergent block, the cover sealing the opening for introducing the solid detergent block when closed.

33. The dispenser according to any one of claims 28 to 32, wherein the detergent chamber is divided into more than one compartment by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between adjacent compartments at the bottom.

34. The dispenser according to any one of claims 28 to 33, the dispenser further comprising an additional partition wall between the liquid outlet and an adjacent detergent chamber, wherein fluid communication is maintained at the bottom between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the additional partition wall acting as a vapor barrier.

35. The dispenser according to any one of claims 28 to 34, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that allows the dispenser to be internally mounted in the dishwasher, wherein the mounting mechanism includes a mounting plate configured to be mounted on an inner surface of the dishwasher, and the dispenser is configured to be removably attached to the mounting plate.

36. The dispenser according to any one of claims 28 to 35, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism, the mounting mechanism including means for adjusting the tilt of the dispenser when the dispenser is arranged inside the dishwasher.

37. The dispenser according to any one of claims 28 to 36, wherein the dispenser includes a front wall, and wherein at least a portion of the front wall covering the detergent compartment is transparent.

38. The dispenser according to any one of claims 28 to 37, wherein the dispenser is configured to: - A solid detergent block containing enough detergent solution to provide for at least 10 cleaning cycles. - It can be removably retrofitted into the dishwasher, and, When removably mounted on the inner wall of the washing chamber of the dishwasher, - Water or liquid sprayed into the washing chamber is collected by a liquid inlet. - The collected water or liquid is directed to the solid detergent block contained in the dispenser, whereby a portion of the solid detergent block is dissolved to form a detergent solution, and - Allows all detergent solutions to be released continuously as they are formed.

39. A kit comprising: A dispenser for dispensing a detergent solution made from solid detergent into a dishwasher, the dispenser including a liquid inlet, a detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet, wherein the dispenser is configured to pass all liquid collected by the dispenser from the liquid inlet to the detergent chamber to form the detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent block, allowing continuous release of the detergent via the liquid outlet, wherein the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element; and A first replaceable element, which is intended to be installed on the dispenser to form the liquid inlet, provides a specific net opening space.

40. The kit of claim 39, wherein the kit includes one or more additional replaceable elements intended to be mounted to the dispenser to form the liquid inlet, each of the one or more additional replaceable elements providing a specific net opening space different from and different from that of the first replaceable element.

41. The kit of claim 39 or 40, wherein the dispenser is configured to receive a solid detergent block having a total weight of 400g to 600g, and is configured to allow for a distance of 0.2cm relative to the liquid inlet by replacing the replaceable element with another replaceable element. 2 up to 3.0cm 2 The change in the net opening space.

42. The kit according to any one of claims 39 to 41, wherein the dispenser includes an additional chamber adjacent to the detergent compartment, and wherein the liquid inlet of the dispenser is disposed on the top side of the dispenser, providing an opening into the additional chamber.

43. The kit according to any one of claims 39 to 42, wherein the detergent compartment further comprises a detergent opening and a cover, the detergent opening being on the top side for introducing the solid detergent block, the cover sealing the opening for introducing the solid detergent block when closed.

44. The kit according to any one of claims 39 to 43, wherein the detergent compartment is divided into more than one compartment by a partition wall, and fluid communication is maintained between adjacent compartments at the bottom.

45. The kit according to any one of claims 39 to 44, wherein the dispenser further comprises an additional partition wall between the liquid outlet and the adjacent detergent chamber, wherein fluid communication is maintained at the bottom between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the additional partition wall acting as a vapor barrier.

46. ​​The kit of any one of claims 39 to 45, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that allows the dispenser to be internally mounted in the dishwasher, wherein the mounting mechanism includes a mounting plate configured to be mounted on an inner surface of the dishwasher, and the dispenser is configured to be removably attached to the mounting plate.

47. The kit according to any one of claims 39 to 46, wherein the dispenser includes a mounting mechanism that includes means for adjusting the tilt of the dispenser when the dispenser is arranged inside the dishwasher.

48. The kit according to any one of claims 39 to 47, wherein the dispenser includes a front wall, and wherein at least a portion of the front wall covering the detergent compartment is transparent.

49. A method for dispensing detergent solution from a dispenser in a dishwasher, the dishwasher being capable of performing cleaning cycles, each cleaning cycle including a washing and rinsing cycle, the method comprising: i. Place one or more solid detergent blocks in the detergent chamber of the dispenser, each solid detergent block containing detergent and rinsing agent in an amount sufficient to provide detergent solution for at least 10 cleaning cycles; ii. During the washing and rinsing cycle, a portion of the water or liquid sprayed in the dishwasher is collected, and the collected water is used to form a detergent solution in the detergent chamber of the dispenser by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent; iii. During the formation of the detergent solution, all of the detergent solution is continuously released from the dispenser; iv. The conductivity of the washing liquid is measured by a conductivity sensor of a battery-powered device arranged inside the dishwasher; v. Provide the measured conductivity value to the control unit of the battery-powered device for processing; as well as vi. If the conductivity value is lower than a preset threshold, the control unit generates a signal to instruct the dispenser to be refilled with solid detergent blocks, and displays the signal independently of the dishwasher.

50. The method of claim 49, prior to steps i. to vi., includes steps a. to c. in any order: a. Selecting and installing the specific net opening space of the liquid inlet of the dispenser; b. Removably adapt the dispenser into the dishwasher; and c. The battery-powered device, including the control unit and conductivity sensor, is removably retrofitted into the dishwasher.

51. The method according to claim 49 or 50, wherein the signal is displayed by the battery-powered device, preferably in the form of an optical signal.

52. The method of claim 49 or 50, wherein the signal is transmitted wirelessly by the battery-powered device to an external device located outside the dishwasher for display by the external device.

53. The method of any one of claims 49 to 52, wherein the liquid inlet is designed as a replaceable element, and wherein the method further comprises the step of changing the specific net opening space of the liquid inlet by replacing the replaceable element with another replaceable element having a different specific net opening space.

54. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 14 is used for removably retrofitting and / or operating a dishwasher having said system.

55. The dispenser according to any one of claims 15 to 38 or the kit according to any one of claims 39 to 48 for the purpose of removably modifying and / or operating a dishwasher having said dispenser.

56. A dishwasher comprising a system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, a dispenser according to any one of claims 15 to 38, or a kit according to any one of claims 39 to 48, or wherein the dishwasher is configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 49 to 53.

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