Dishwasher

Abstract

A dishwasher (1) is disclosed, comprising a washing chamber (3), a rack (5) and a pivoting arm arrangement (7) supporting the rack (5) relative to the washing chamber (3). The pivoting arm arrangement (7) is movable from a lower position to an upper position in order to lift the rack (5) from a first extracted position to a raised position. The dishwasher (1) further comprises an actuator assembly (11) which is switchable between a first state in which the actuator assembly (11) is configured to move the pivoting arm arrangement (7) from the lower position towards the upper position when the rack (5) is moved to a first extracted position, and a second state in which the actuator assembly (11) is configured to allow the rack (5) to be moved out of the washing chamber (3) beyond the first extracted position in a horizontal direction (d1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a dishwasher. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a dishwasher including a pivoting arm device supporting a shelf relative to the wash chamber, wherein the pivoting arm device is movable from a lower position to an upper position to raise the shelf from a first withdrawn position to a raised position. Background Technology

[0002] A dishwasher is a device used to wash items such as tableware, cutlery, and utensils. A dishwasher includes a washing chamber and one or more shelves for holding the items to be cleaned. Typically, a dishwasher includes one or more spray arms that spray a cleaning solution (e.g., a mixture of water and detergent) onto the items to clean them.

[0003] Typically, shelves can only be moved horizontally into and out of the washroom. For lower shelves located at the bottom of the washroom, users will have to bend over to load or unload items. This can cause discomfort, especially for disabled and / or elderly people.

[0004] Therefore, a pivoting arm device has been developed that can move from a lower position to an upper position to raise the shelf from a first withdrawn position to a raised position. Such pivoting arm devices are disclosed, for example, in US 2012 / 0074080 or WO2014 / 033092. Because the shelf is raised to the raised position, it significantly facilitates loading and unloading items from the shelf, and the loading and unloading of items can be performed in a more ergonomic manner.

[0005] As explained above, pivot arm devices can provide a more ergonomic and user-friendly dishwasher. However, some issues still exist regarding the flexibility, ergonomics, and user-friendliness of such dishwashers.

[0006] Furthermore, in today's consumer market, it is generally advantageous for products (such as dishwashers) to have conditions and / or features suitable for cost-effective manufacturing and assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to overcome or at least alleviate some of the above-mentioned problems and disadvantages.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the invention, this objective is achieved by a dishwasher including a washing chamber and a shelf horizontally movably arranged to enter and exit the washing chamber between an insertion position and a first withdrawal position. The dishwasher further includes a pivoting arm device supporting the shelf relative to the washing chamber. The pivoting arm device is movable from a lower position to an upper position to raise the shelf from the first withdrawal position to a raised position. The dishwasher further includes an actuator assembly configurable between a first state and a second state, in which the actuator assembly is configured to move the pivoting arm device from the lower position toward the upper position when the shelf is moved to the first withdrawal position, and in the second state, the actuator assembly is configured to hold the pivoting arm device in the lower position when the shelf is moved to the first withdrawal position, and to allow the shelf to be moved horizontally across the first withdrawal position from the washing chamber.

[0009] Because the dishwasher includes an actuator assembly that can switch between the first and second states, it offers greater flexibility. This is because the dishwasher allows the user to easily move the shelf horizontally across the washing chamber from the first pull-out position to a second pull-out position, which is farther from the washing chamber than the first pull-out position, or to a raised position, by simply selecting the state of the actuator assembly and moving the shelf toward the first pull-out position.

[0010] Existing pivot arm devices are configured to begin moving from a lower position to an upper position when the shelf reaches a first withdrawn position. This limits the distance the shelf can be horizontally moved out of the washing chamber when the pivot arm device is in the lower position.

[0011] However, since the dishwasher according to this disclosure includes an actuator assembly that can switch between the first and second states, the user can choose whether to simply move the shelf horizontally past the first pull-out position from the washing chamber to the second pull-out position by switching the actuator assembly to the second state and moving the shelf horizontally past the first pull-out position from the washing chamber. In this way, when the pivot arm is in the lower position, it can further facilitate loading and unloading items in the shelf, especially items located in the rear portion of the shelf. Furthermore, since the actuator assembly allows the shelf to move past the first pull-out position, the user can reach the lower portion of the washing chamber in a simpler and more ergonomic way, for example, when wanting to clean the filter and / or fill the salt container, which may be located in the lower portion of the washing chamber.

[0012] If the user alternatively wishes to raise the shelf, the user can ensure the actuator assembly is in the first state and move the shelf to the first pull-out position. Therefore, a dishwasher is provided that allows the user to simply select between two alternative paths for the shelf by choosing the state of the actuator assembly and move the shelf toward the first pull-out position. Thus, a more flexible, ergonomic, and user-friendly dishwasher is provided.

[0013] Therefore, a dishwasher is provided that overcomes or at least mitigates some of the aforementioned problems and disadvantages. Thus, the aforementioned objective is achieved.

[0014] Optionally, the actuator assembly is biased toward the first state. Therefore, when the actuator assembly is not actuated, the pivot arm will initiate movement from the lower position to the upper position when the shelf automatically reaches the first withdrawn position. This provides a dishwasher that is even more user-friendly.

[0015] Optionally, the actuator assembly is arranged on the shelf. This provides a dishwasher that is even more user-friendly. Furthermore, a dishwasher with conditions and features suitable for cost-effective manufacturing and assembly is provided.

[0016] Optionally, the actuator assembly includes an actuator for transitioning the actuator assembly from the first state to the second state. This allows for a simple and user-friendly transition of the actuator assembly from the first state to the second state.

[0017] Optionally, the actuator is positioned on the front side of the shelf. This allows the actuator assembly to be switched from the first state to the second state in a simpler and more user-friendly manner.

[0018] Optionally, the shelf includes a handle to facilitate horizontal movement of the shelf into and out of the washing chamber, wherein the actuator is arranged adjacent to the handle. This allows the actuator assembly to be switched from the first state to the second state in a simple, intuitive, and more user-friendly manner, for example, by applying force to the actuator and the handle with one hand. Additionally, unintentional actuation of the actuator assembly can be avoided.

[0019] Optionally, the actuator is positioned below the handle. This allows the actuator assembly to be switched from the first state to the second state in a simple, intuitive, and more user-friendly manner, such as by placing the palm on the handle and actuating the actuator with a finger. Furthermore, because the actuator is positioned below the handle, unintentional actuation of the actuator assembly can be avoided.

[0020] Optionally, the actuator is movable between the first state and the second state, and wherein the actuator assembly transitions from the first state to the second state when the actuator moves in a direction toward the handle. Thus, the actuator assembly can be transitioned from the first state to the second state in a simple, intuitive, and more user-friendly manner, for example, by placing the palm on the handle and pressing the actuator toward the handle with fingers.

[0021] Optionally, the actuator assembly includes an actuator arm hinged relative to the shelf, wherein the actuator is disposed on the actuator arm. Thus, a simple and reliable actuator assembly with conditions and characteristics suitable for cost-effective manufacture and assembly is provided.

[0022] Optionally, the dishwasher includes a locking assembly configured to lock the pivot arm device in a locked state at the lower position and to unlock the pivot arm device from the lower position in an unlocked state. The actuator assembly is configured to move the pivot arm device from the lower position toward the upper position by switching the locking assembly to the unlocked state, and is configured to hold the pivot arm device in the lower position by holding the locking assembly in the locked state. Thus, a dishwasher is provided that allows a user to easily, effectively, and reliably select between two alternative paths for a shelf by choosing the state of the actuator assembly and move the shelf toward the first pull-out position. Additionally, a dishwasher is provided in which the pivot arm device is held in the lower position when the actuator assembly is in a second state and the shelf has moved past the first pull-out position.

[0023] Optionally, the lock assembly includes a locking member and a locking element, the locking member being provided with a first recess, wherein the locked state constitutes a state in which the locking element is positioned in the first recess, and wherein the unlocked state constitutes a state in which the locking element is positioned outside the first recess. Thus, a simple and reliable lock assembly with conditions and features suitable for cost-effective manufacture and assembly is provided. Furthermore, a dishwasher is provided, wherein it is further ensured that when the actuator assembly is in the second state and the shelf moves past the first withdrawn position, the pivot arm device remains in the lower position.

[0024] Optionally, the locking element is arranged on the pivot arm assembly. Thus, a simple and reliable locking assembly is provided, possessing conditions and characteristics suitable for cost-effective manufacture and assembly.

[0025] Optionally, the dishwasher includes a track that allows the shelf to move in and out of the washing chamber in the horizontal direction, and wherein the locking member is fixedly arranged relative to the track. Thus, a simple and reliable locking assembly with conditions and characteristics suitable for cost-effective manufacture and assembly is provided.

[0026] Optionally, the actuator assembly includes an actuator member that, when the actuator assembly is in the first state and when the shelf is moved to the first withdrawn position, is arranged to remove the locking element from the first recess. Thus, the lock assembly transitions to the unlocked state in a simple and reliable manner, allowing the pivot arm device to move from the lower position to the upper position. Furthermore, a simple and reliable lock assembly with conditions and features suitable for cost-effective manufacture and assembly is provided.

[0027] Optionally, the actuator component is operatively connected to the actuator via the actuator arm. Thus, a simple and reliable actuator assembly with conditions and characteristics suitable for cost-effective manufacture and assembly is provided.

[0028] Optionally, the actuator assembly is arranged such that, upon transitioning to the second state, the actuator member is moved to a position where, when the shelf is moved to the first withdrawn position, the locking element is retained in the first recess. This ensures that the pivot arm device remains in the lower position when the actuator assembly is in the second state, and that the shelf can be moved and moved past the first withdrawn position in a simple, efficient, and reliable manner.

[0029] Optionally, when the actuator assembly is in the first state, the locking element is arranged against the actuator assembly to prevent the shelf from moving horizontally beyond the first withdrawn position. This ensures that the shelf can be raised from the first withdrawn position to the raised position in a controlled and reliable manner.

[0030] Optionally, when the actuator assembly is in the second state, the actuator member is configured to take a position that allows the actuator member to be moved out of the washing chamber across the locking element in the horizontal direction. Thus, an actuator assembly is provided that allows a shelf to be moved out of the washing chamber in a simple, efficient, and reliable manner across a first pull-out position in the horizontal direction without switching the locking assembly to an unlocked state.

[0031] Optionally, the locking assembly can be switched to an upper locked state, in which the locking assembly locks the pivot arm device in the upper position, and wherein the actuator assembly is operatively connected to the locking assembly for unlocking the locking assembly from the upper locked state. Thus, when the shelf is in the raised position, loading and unloading items from the shelf can be performed in a safer and more user-friendly manner. Furthermore, a locking assembly capable of performing at least two tasks is provided: locking the pivot arm device in the lower position and locking the pivot arm device in the upper position. Additionally, an actuator assembly is provided for several functions, including controlling the path of the shelf and unlocking the locking assembly from the upper locked state. In this way, a dishwasher that can be used in a simpler, more intuitive, and more user-friendly manner is provided. Furthermore, a dishwasher including advanced features and functions is provided, while also possessing conditions and features suitable for cost-effective manufacture and assembly.

[0032] Optionally, the locking assembly is configured to take an upper locked state when the pivot arm device moves to the upper position. Thus, a dishwasher is provided in which the shelf automatically locks in the raised position when it reaches the raised position. In this way, a more user-friendly dishwasher is provided.

[0033] Optionally, the locking member is provided with a second recess, and wherein the upper locked state constitutes a state in which the locking element is positioned in the second recess. Thus, a simple and reliable locking assembly with conditions and features suitable for cost-effective manufacture and assembly is provided. Furthermore, a dishwasher is provided, wherein the pivot arm device is further ensured to be held in the upper position, i.e., the shelf can be held in the raised position.

[0034] Optionally, the actuator assembly is configured to unlock the lock assembly from the upper locked state when transitioning to the second state. This allows the lock assembly to be unlocked from the upper locked state in a simple, intuitive, and more user-friendly manner, thus also unlocking the shelf from the raised position. Furthermore, since the actuator assembly can be biased towards the first state, accidental unlocking of the lock assembly can be prevented.

[0035] Optionally, the actuator assembly is configured to remove the locking element from the second recess when transitioning to the second state, thereby unlocking the lock assembly from the upper locked state. This provides a simple and reliable lock assembly capable of performing various functions, while also possessing conditions and features suitable for cost-effective manufacture and assembly.

[0036] Further features and advantages of the invention will become clear upon studying the appended claims and the following detailed description. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Different aspects of the invention, including its specific features and advantages, will be readily understood from the exemplary embodiments discussed in the following detailed description and accompanying drawings:

[0038] Figure 1 Dishwashers according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0039] Figure 2 Showing Figure 1 The dishwasher on display has its shelf positioned in the first pull-out position.

[0040] Figure 3 Showing Figure 1 and Figure 2 The dishwasher on display has its shelves positioned in a raised position.

[0041] Figure 4 Showing Figures 1 to 3 The dishwasher on display features a pivot arm assembly and shelves.

[0042] Figure 5 Showing Figures 1 to 3 The dishwasher on display has its shelf positioned in the second pull-out position.

[0043] Figure 6 Showing Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 5 The image shows a perspective view of the dishwasher's lock assembly, a portion of the pivot arm mechanism, a portion of the actuator assembly, and a portion of the shelf.

[0044] Figure 7 Showing Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 5 The side view of the dishwasher's lock assembly, a portion of the pivot arm mechanism, and a portion of the actuator assembly is shown.

[0045] Figure 8 Showing Figure 7 A side view showing a lock assembly, a portion of a pivot arm device, and a portion of an actuator assembly, wherein the pivot arm device is positioned between a lower position and an upper position.

[0046] Figure 9 Showing Figure 8 The side view shows a portion of the lock assembly, a pivot arm device, and an actuator assembly, with the pivot arm device in the upper position and the lock assembly in the upper locked state.

[0047] Figure 10 Showing Figure 9The side view shows a portion of the lock assembly, a pivot arm device, and an actuator assembly, wherein the actuator assembly is in a second state and the lock assembly is in an unlocked state.

[0048] Figure 11 Showing Figures 1 to 2 and Figure 5 The side view of the dishwasher's lock assembly, a portion of the pivot arm device, and a portion of the actuator assembly is shown, with the actuator assembly in a second state. Detailed Implementation

[0049] The various aspects of the invention will now be described more fully. Throughout the text, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. For the sake of brevity and / or clarity, well-known functions or constructions will not be described in detail.

[0050] Figure 1 A dishwasher 1 according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. The dishwasher 1 includes a washing chamber 3 configured to accommodate items to be washed, such as tableware, cutlery, etc. According to the shown embodiment, the dishwasher 1 includes an upper shelf 6 and a lower shelf 5, each configured to accommodate items to be washed in the washing chamber 3. According to a further embodiment, the dishwasher 1 may include more than two shelves 5, 6, such as three shelves. The upper shelf 6 is movably arranged along horizontal directions d1, d2 to enter and exit the washing chamber 3 via a track device 6'. The lower shelf 5 is also movably arranged along horizontal directions d1, d2 to enter and exit the washing chamber 3 between an insertion position and a first withdrawal position via a track device 25. Figure 1 The document shows the lower shelf 5 and upper shelf 6 in their respective insertion positions. For the sake of brevity and clarity, the "lower shelf 5" is referred to as "shelf 5" in various places throughout this document. Therefore, throughout this disclosure, the term "shelf 5" can be replaced by the term "lower shelf 5".

[0051] The dishwasher 1 further includes a collection tank 28 located at the bottom of the washing chamber 3. Additionally, the dishwasher 1 includes a door arranged to close the washing chamber 3, one or more spray devices (such as one or more spray arms), and a circulation pump. The circulation pump is configured to pump liquid from the collection tank 28 to the spray devices during a washing cycle of the dishwasher 1. Liquid is sprayed from the spray devices onto the items to clean them. Due to gravity, the liquid is collected in the collection tank 28, where it is again pumped to the spray devices by the circulation pump. For simplicity and clarity, the door, spray devices, and circulation pump are not mentioned in the original text. Figure 1 It is displayed in the middle.

[0052] Figure 1Three directions, d1, d2, and d3, are shown: the first horizontal direction d1, the second horizontal direction d2, and the first vertical direction d3. When the dishwasher 1 is positioned in the upright use position, as shown... Figure 1 In the case described above, the first horizontal direction d1 and the second horizontal direction d2 are parallel to the horizontal plane at the position of the dishwasher 1, and the first vertical direction d3 is opposite to the local gravity vector at the position of the dishwasher 1.

[0053] The dishwasher 1 includes a pivot arm assembly 7. The pivot arm assembly 7 supports and holds a shelf 5 relative to the washing chamber 3. The pivot arm assembly 7 is movable from a lower position to an upper position to raise the shelf 5 from a first withdrawn position to a raised position. Figure 1 The pivot arm device 7, located in the lower position, is shown in the middle.

[0054] Figure 2 Showing Figure 1 The dishwasher 1 shown has shelf 5 positioned in the first pull-out position. Figure 2 As can be seen from this, when in the first extraction position, it is similar to... Figure 1 Compared to its inserted position, shelf 5 is located further outward from the washing chamber 3, specifically further outward along the first horizontal direction d1. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As indicated, the dishwasher 1 includes an actuator assembly 11. The actuator assembly 11 is switchable between a first state and a second state. When the actuator assembly 11 is in the first state, it is configured to move the pivot arm device 7 from a lower position to an upper position when the shelf 5 is moved to the first withdrawn position. In this way, when the actuator assembly 11 is in the first state and when the shelf 5 is moved to the first withdrawn position, the shelf 5 is raised from the first withdrawn position to the raised position.

[0055] Figure 3 Showing Figure 1 and Figure 2 The dishwasher 1 shown has its shelf 5 positioned in a raised position. During the movement of the pivot arm 7 from the lower position to the upper position, the shelf 5... Figure 2 The first extraction position shown has been moved to... Figure 3 The displayed elevation position. (For comparison) Figure 2 and Figure 3 It can be seen that when in the raised position, compared with the first pulled-out position, the shelf 5 is positioned further outward from the washing chamber 3 and in a higher vertical position relative to the washing chamber 3.

[0056] During the movement of the pivot arm 7 from the lower position to the upper position, the shelf 5 moves in a swing motion, having a movement vector along a first horizontal direction d1 and a first vertical direction d3. According to the illustrated embodiment, the shelf 5 is raised to a vertical position relative to the washing chamber 3, which approximately corresponds to the vertical position of the upper shelf 6 relative to the washing chamber 3. When the shelf 5 is in the raised position, the user can load and unload items from the shelf 5 in a simpler and more ergonomic manner.

[0057] Figure 4 Showing Figures 1 to 3 The dishwasher 1 shown includes a pivot arm assembly 7 and a shelf 5. Figure 4 The image shows the pivot arm assembly 7 in its lower position and the shelf 5 in its inserted position. The pivot arm assembly 7 includes a mounting bracket 31 and a set of swing arms 33, 34. The swing arms 33, 34 are attached to the wall of the washing chamber via the mounting bracket 31. The swing arms 33, 34 are each pivotally arranged relative to the wall of the washing chamber at corresponding pivot axes p1, p2 at their respective first ends 33', 34'.

[0058] The pivot arm assembly 7 includes a second bracket 37 attached to the respective second ends 33”, 34” of the swing arms 33, 34. Each second end 33”, 34” of the swing arms 33, 34 is pivotally attached to the second bracket 37 at a corresponding pivot axis p3, p4. A track 25 is attached to the second bracket 37. A shelf 5 is horizontally movably arranged to enter and exit the washing chamber via the track 25. The lengths of the swing arms 33, 34 and the positions of the pivot axes p1, p2, p3, p4 are adapted such that the track 25, and therefore the shelf 5, are located in the pivot arm assembly 7 from... Figure 4 The lower part of the display has been moved. Figure 3 The upper part of the display is oriented horizontally.

[0059] In addition, such as Figure 4 As indicated herein, the pivot arm device 7 includes a spring device 41. The spring device 41 is configured to bias the pivot arm device 7 from a lower position toward an upper position. In this way, the user can move the shelf 5 from the first pulled-out position to the raised position with little or no force, as further explained herein. The spring device 41 may include, for example, a gas spring device, etc.

[0060] The following is for reference. Figure 2 The following explanation is provided. As indicated above, actuator assembly 11 can be switched to a second state. According to embodiments herein, when actuator assembly 11 is in the second state, actuator assembly 11 is configured to hold pivot arm device 7 in the lower position when shelf 5 is moved to the first withdrawn position, and to allow shelf 5 to move out of washing chamber 3 in the horizontal direction d1 past the first withdrawn position.

[0061] Figure 5 Showing Figures 1 to 3 The dishwasher 1 shown has shelf 5 positioned in the second pull-out position. (Comparison) Figure 5 and Figure 2 It can be seen that when in the second withdrawal position, compared to Figure 2 Compared to the first withdrawn position, the shelf 5 is located further outward from the washing chamber 3, specifically further outward along the first horizontal direction d1. Since the dishwasher 1 includes an actuator assembly 11 that can switch between the first and second states, the user can choose whether to simply move the actuator assembly 11 to the second state and remove the shelf 5 from the washing chamber 3 along the first horizontal direction d1 past the first withdrawn position to the second withdrawn position. In this way, when the pivot arm 7 is in the lower position, it is further convenient to load and unload items from the shelf, especially items located at the rear of the shelf 5. Furthermore, since the actuator assembly 11 allows the shelf 5 to move beyond the first pull-out position, the user can reach the lower portion 3' of the washing chamber 3 and various parts of the collection tank 28 of the washing chamber 3 in a simpler and more ergonomic way, for example, when cleaning the filter and / or filling the salt container, which may be located at the lower portion 3' of the washing chamber 3 and / or various parts of the collection tank 28 of the washing chamber 3.

[0062] If the user wishes to raise shelf 5 instead, the user can ensure that the actuator assembly is in the first state and move the shelf to... Figure 2 The first withdrawal position is shown. Therefore, the pivot arm device 7 will... Figure 2 The lower part of the display has been moved. Figure 3 The upper position is shown so that shelf 3 can be moved from... Figure 2 The first extraction position shown has been moved to... Figure 3 The raised position is shown. Therefore, a dishwasher 1 is provided that allows a user to easily select between two alternative paths for the shelf 5 by selecting the state of the actuator assembly 11, and to orient the shelf towards... Figure 2 The first extraction position shown has been moved.

[0063] like Figures 1 to 5 As indicated, actuator assembly 11 is arranged on shelf 5. Actuator assembly 11 includes actuator 11' for transitioning actuator assembly 11 from a first state to a second state. Actuator assembly 11 includes actuator arm 15 hinged relative to shelf 5 about actuator arm pivot axis ax1. Actuator arm pivot axis ax1 is also... Figure 4 The actuator 11' is positioned on the actuator arm 15. (See diagram below.) Figure 1 As indicated, actuator 11' is arranged on the front side 5' of shelf 5. Actuator arm 15 is elongated and extends to the corresponding side of shelf 5. Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 5 As indicated, shelf 5 includes a handle 13 to facilitate movement of shelf 5 into and out of washing chamber 3 along horizontal directions d1, d2. According to the illustrated embodiment, actuator 11' is arranged adjacent to handle 13, i.e., below handle 13 when viewed along the first vertical direction d3. Additionally, according to the illustrated embodiment, actuator assembly 11 is biased toward a first state by gravity. According to a further embodiment, actuator assembly 11 is biased toward the first state by a spring mechanism. According to the illustrated embodiment, actuator 11' is movable between a first state and a second state, and wherein, when actuator 11' moves along direction d3 toward handle 13 (i.e., along the first vertical direction d3), actuator assembly 11 transitions from the first state to the second state.

[0064] Because of these features, a user can easily switch the actuator assembly 11 to the second state by placing their palm on the handle 13 and pressing the actuator 11' with their fingers toward the handle 13. According to the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 11' is formed as a handle and is provided with an arrow indicating its actuation direction.

[0065] As further explained herein, according to the illustrated embodiment, the dishwasher 1 includes a locking assembly configured to lock the pivot arm 7 in a lower position in a locked state and to unlock the pivot arm 7 from the lower position in an unlocked state.

[0066] Figure 6 Showing Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 5 A perspective view of the lock assemblies 9 and 10, a portion of the pivot arm assembly 7, a portion of the actuator assembly 11, and a portion of the shelf 5 of the dishwasher 1 shown. Figure 6 In the illustration, shelf 5 is shown in a partially extended position, pivot arm 7 is shown in a lowered position, and actuator assembly 11 is shown in a first state. Locking assemblies 9 and 10 include locking member 10 and locking element 9. According to the illustrated embodiment, locking element 9 is formed as a locking pin. Locking element 9 is arranged on pivot arm 7 and movably disposed in recess 29 between a locked position and an unlocked position. Figure 6 The image shows locking element 6 in the locked position. Locking element 9 is biased toward the locked position by a spring element. For simplicity and clarity, the spring element is shown in... Figure 6 Not shown in the image.

[0067] As indicated above, the dishwasher 1 includes a track 25 that allows the shelf 5 to move in and out of the washing chamber 3 along horizontal directions d1, d2. A locking member 10 is fixedly arranged relative to the track 25. The locking member 10 is provided with a first recess 21. As mentioned herein, a locked state constitutes a state in which the locking element 9 is located in the first recess 21. Figure 6 As shown. The unlocked state constitutes the state in which the locking element 9 is located outside the first recess 21, as further explained herein.

[0068] Actuator assembly 11 includes actuator member 8 and link 30. Actuator member 8 is operably connected to actuator 11' via actuator arm 15 and link 30. Figures 1 to 5 (As indicated in the instructions). Figure 6 As indicated, actuator arm 15 is hinged relative to shelf 5 about actuator arm pivot axis ax1. Actuator arm pivot axis ax1 is fixed relative to shelf 5. Actuator component 8 is also hinged relative to shelf 5 about actuator component pivot axis ax2, which is also fixed relative to shelf 5.

[0069] As further explained below, when the actuator assembly 11 is in the first state and when the shelf 5 is moved to the first withdrawn position, the actuator member 8 is arranged to remove the locking element 9 from the first recess 21.

[0070] Figure 7 Showing Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 5 Side view of the dishwasher 1's locking assemblies 9 and 10, a portion of the pivot arm assembly 7, and a portion of the actuator assembly 11. Figure 7 In the diagram, the pivot arm 7 is shown in its lower position, the actuator assembly 11 is shown in its position where the shelf is in a first withdrawn position, and the actuator assembly 11 is shown in a first state. Figure 7 As can be seen, due to the shelf shifting to the first withdrawn position, the actuator component 8 has moved the locking element 9 from the locked position to the unlocked position outside the first recess 21. Furthermore, as... Figure 7 As can be seen, when the actuator assembly 11 is in the first state, the locking element 9 is arranged to abut against the actuator member 8 to prevent the shelf 5 from moving horizontally beyond the first pull-out position. Therefore, when the actuator assembly 11 is in the first state and when the shelf moves to the first pull-out position, the actuator member 8 is configured to abut against the locking element 9 and move the locking element 9 from the locked position to the unlocked position outside the first recess 21.

[0071] In this way, the pivot arm device 7 is connected by the spring device 41 ( Figure 4The bias force (as indicated by the center indicator) allows the pivot arm 7 to move freely from the lower position toward the upper position. Therefore, the actuator assembly 11 is configured to move the pivot arm 7 from the lower position (e.g., the center position) to the upper position by switching the lock assemblies 9 and 10 to the unlocked state. Figure 2 (Displayed) Facing the upper position ( Figure 3 (The movement shown)

[0072] Figure 8 Showing Figure 7 The side view shows a portion of the lock assemblies 9 and 10, a portion of the pivot arm device 7, and a portion of the actuator assembly 11, wherein the pivot arm device 7 is positioned between a lower position and an upper position.

[0073] like Figure 8 As indicated, the locking member 10 includes an arcuate surface 23, wherein the center of curvature coincides with the pivot axis p3 of one of the swing arms 33. Figure 8 As can be seen, due to the displacement of the locking element 9 to the unlocked position and the pivoting of the pivoting arm device 7, the locking element 9 moves to the position where, during the movement of the pivoting arm device 7 from the lower position to the upper position, the locking element follows the arcuate surface 23. The arcuate surface 23 ensures that the locking element 9 remains in the unlocked position during the movement of the pivoting arm device 7 from the lower position to the upper position.

[0074] According to the illustrated embodiment, locking assemblies 9 and 10 can be switched to an upper locked state, wherein locking assemblies 9 and 10 lock the pivot arm device 7 in the upper position. Furthermore, according to the illustrated embodiment, when the pivot arm device 7 is moved to the upper position, locking assemblies 9 and 10 are configured to engage the upper locked state. Figures 6 to 8 As indicated in the diagram, the locking member 10 is provided with a second recess 22, which is arranged along the arcuate surface 23 at a certain distance from the first recess 21.

[0075] Figure 9 Showing Figure 8 The side view shows locking assemblies 9 and 10, a portion of pivot arm assembly 7, and a portion of actuator assembly 11, with pivot arm assembly 7 in the upper position and locking assemblies 9 and 10 in the upper locked state. Figure 9 As seen in the illustration, the upper locking state constitutes the state in which the locking element 9 is positioned in the second recess 22. According to the illustrated embodiment, when the pivot arm 7 reaches the upper position, the locking element 9 is displaced into the second recess 22 by a biasing force toward the locking position. In this way, when the pivot arm 7 moves to the upper position, the locking assemblies 9 and 10 will take the upper locking state.

[0076] Actuator assembly 11 is operatively connected to lock assemblies 9 and 10 to unlock lock assemblies 9 and 10 from the upper locked state. Figure 9 The image shows actuator assembly 11 in its first state. Actuator assembly 11 is configured to unlock lock assemblies 9 and 10 from their upper locked state when transitioning to the second state.

[0077] Figure 10 Showing Figure 9 The side view shows the lock assemblies 9 and 10, a portion of the pivot arm device 7, and a portion of the actuator assembly 11, wherein the actuator assembly 11 is in a second state. Figure 10 As can be seen, actuator assembly 11 is configured to remove locking element 9 from second recess 22 when transitioning to the second state, thereby unlocking lock assemblies 9 and 10 from the upper locked state. That is, due to actuator 11' ( Figure 3 (Indicated by the center) movement in the direction d3 toward the handle 13, which is transmitted via the actuator arm 15 and the connecting rod 30 along Figure 10 The direction d3 indicated in the middle is transmitted to the actuator component 8. More specifically, due to the actuator arm pivot axis ax1, the actuator 11' moves along... Figure 3 The movement of the linkage 30 in the indicated direction d3 causes it to move in the opposite direction d4. Furthermore, due to the pivot axis ax2 of the actuator member, the rear portion 8' of the actuator member 8 moves in the direction d4, and the front portion 8" of the actuator member moves in the direction d3. The front portion 8" is configured to abut against the locking element 9. In this way, when the actuator 11' moves along... Figure 3 When the actuator component 8 moves in the direction d3 indicated in the middle, it moves the locking element 9 from the locked position to the unlocked position outside the second recess 22.

[0078] When the locking assemblies 9 and 10 are unlocked, that is, when the locking element 9 moves out of the second recess 22, the pivot arm device 7 moves freely from the upper position to the lower position. The user can move the pivot arm device 7 from the upper position to the lower position by applying force to the shelf or the pivot arm device 7 in the direction toward the lower position. During the movement of the pivot arm device 7 toward the lower position, the locking element 9 will follow the arcuate surface 23, such as... Figure 8 As shown, and therefore will remain in the unlocked position until the pivot arm 7 reaches the lower position. When the pivot arm 7 reaches the lower position, the locking element 9 will shift into the first recess 21 by offset toward the locked position, as... Figure 6 As shown, in this way, when the pivot arm device 7 reaches the lower position, the locking assemblies 9 and 10 will be locked.

[0079] As indicated above, when the actuator assembly 11 is in the second state, the actuator assembly 11 is configured to hold the pivot arm device 7 in the lower position when the shelf 5 moves from the insertion position to the first withdrawal position.

[0080] Figure 11 Showing Figures 1 to 2 and Figure 5 The side view shows the locking assemblies 9 and 10 of the dishwasher, a portion of the pivot arm assembly 7, and a portion of the actuator assembly 11, wherein the actuator assembly 11 is in a second state. Figure 11 In the diagram, the pivot arm 7 is shown in its lower position, and the actuator assembly 11 is shown in its position where the shelf is in a first withdrawn position. Compared to when the actuator assembly 11 is in the first state, as... Figure 7 As shown, when the actuator assembly 11 is in the second state and when the shelf is moved to the first withdrawn position, the locking element 9 does not shift. The actuator assembly 11 is configured to hold the pivot arm device 7 in the lower position by taking a state that keeps the locking assemblies 9, 10 in a locked state. That is, according to the illustrated embodiment, the actuator assembly 11 is arranged to move the actuator member 8 to a position in which the locking element 9 is held in the first recess 21 when the shelf 5 is moved to the first withdrawn position when transitioning to the second state. In this way, when the actuator assembly 11 is in the second state and when the shelf is moved to the first withdrawn position, the actuator assembly 11 keeps the locking assemblies 9, 10 in a locked state and holds the pivot arm device 7 in the lower position.

[0081] In addition, such as Figure 11 As seen in the illustration, when the actuator assembly 11 is in the second state, the actuator member 8 is configured to take a position that allows the actuator member 8 to move out of the washing chamber 3 along the horizontal direction d1 past the locking element 9. According to the illustrated embodiment, this is achieved because when the actuator assembly 11 is in the second state, the front portion 8” of the actuator member 8 moves to a position where the front portion 8” becomes clear from the angle of the locking element 9, regardless of the horizontal position of the shelf. In this way, when the actuator assembly 11 is in the second state, the actuator assembly 11 allows the shelf 5 to move out of the washing chamber 3 along the horizontal direction d1 past the first withdrawal position.

[0082] like Figures 1 to 5 As can be seen, the actuator arm 15 extends to both sides of the shelf 5. Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 includes two actuator components 8, two locking assemblies 9 and 10, two sets of swing arms 33 and 34, etc. These paired components include identical but mirror-image designs. Therefore, for the sake of brevity and clarity, this document will only mention one of these components.

[0083] It should be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of various exemplary embodiments and the invention is defined solely by the appended claims. Those skilled in the art will recognize that exemplary embodiments can be modified without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims, and different features of exemplary embodiments can be combined to create embodiments other than those described herein.

[0084] The terms “comprising” or “comprises” as used herein are open-ended and include one or more of the described features, elements, steps, components, or functions, without excluding the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, components, functions, or groups thereof.

Claims

1. A dishwasher (1) comprising: - a washing chamber (3), - a rack (5) movably arranged in horizontal direction (dl, d2) to enter and exit the washing chamber (3) between an insertion position and a first extracted position, - a pivoting arm device (7) supporting the rack (5) with respect to the washing chamber (3), wherein the pivoting arm device (7) is movable from a lower position to an upper position in order to lift the rack (5) from the first extracted position to a raised position, and - an actuator assembly (11) switchable between a first state in which the actuator assembly (11) is configured to move the pivoting arm device (7) from the lower position towards the upper position as soon as the rack (5) is moved to the first extracted position, wherein the rack (5) is moved out of the washing chamber (3) from the insertion position to the first extracted position in horizontal direction (dl), and the rack (5) starts to move to the raised position when the rack (5) has reached said first extracted position, and a second state in which the actuator assembly (11) is configured to keep the pivoting arm device (7) in the lower position as soon as the rack (5) is moved to the first extracted position, and to allow the rack (5) to move out of the washing chamber (3) from the insertion position to a second extracted position beyond the first extracted position in horizontal direction (dl). The actuator assembly (11) is biased towards the first state.

2. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein The actuator assembly (11) is arranged on the rack (5).

3. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein The actuator assembly (11) comprises an actuator (11') for switching the actuator assembly (11) from the first state to the second state.

4. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein The rack (5) comprises a handle (13) in order to facilitate the movement of the rack (5) into and out of the washing chamber (3) in horizontal direction (dl, d2), and wherein the actuator (11') is arranged adjacent to the handle (13).

5. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 4, wherein The actuator (11') is movable between the first state and the second state, and wherein the actuator assembly (11) is switched from the first state to the second state when the actuator (11') is moved in a direction (d3) towards the handle (13).

6. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 5, wherein The actuator assembly (11) comprises an actuator arm (15) hinged with respect to the rack (5), and wherein the actuator (11') is arranged on the actuator arm (15).

7. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 4, wherein The dishwasher (1) comprises a lock assembly (9, 10) configured to lock the pivoting arm device (7) in the lower position in a locked state, and to unlock the pivoting arm device (7) from the lower position in an unlocked state, and wherein the actuator assembly (11) is configured to move the pivoting arm device (7) from the lower position towards the upper position by switching the lock assembly (9, 10) to the unlocked state, and to keep the pivoting arm device (7) in the lower position by taking a state in which the lock assembly (9, 10) is kept in the locked state.

8. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein ​ 9. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 8, wherein The lock assembly (9, 10) comprises a locking member (10) and a locking element (9), the locking member (10) being provided with a first recess (21), wherein the locked state constitutes a state in which the locking element (9) is positioned in the first recess (21), and wherein the unlocked state constitutes a state in which the locking element (9) is positioned outside the first recess (21).

10. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 9, wherein The locking element (9) is arranged on the pivot arm arrangement (7).

11. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 9, wherein The dishwasher (1) comprises a track (25) allowing the rack (5) to be moved into and out of the washing chamber (3) in the horizontal direction (d1, d2), and wherein the locking member (10) is fixedly arranged relative to the track (25).

12. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 9, wherein The actuator assembly (11) comprises an actuator member (8) arranged to move the locking element (9) out of the first recess (21) when the actuator assembly (11) is in the first state and when the rack (5) is moved to the first extracted position.

13. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 12, wherein The actuator member (8) is operably connected to the actuator (11') via an actuator arm (15).

14. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 12, wherein The actuator assembly (11) is arranged to move the actuator member (8) to a position in which the locking element (9) is kept in the first recess (21) upon a transition to the second state as soon as the rack (5) is moved to the first extracted position.

15. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 12, wherein When the actuator assembly (11) is in the first state, the locking element (9) is arranged to abut against the actuator member (8) to block horizontal movement of the rack (5) beyond the first extracted position.

16. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 12, wherein When the actuator assembly (11) is in the second state, the actuator member (8) is configured to assume a position allowing the actuator member (8) to move out of the washing chamber (3) beyond the locking element (9) in the horizontal direction (d1).

17. The dishwasher (1) as claimed in claim 8, wherein The lock assembly (9, 10) is transitionable to an upper locked state in which the lock assembly (9, 10) locks the pivot arm arrangement (7) in the upper position, and wherein the actuator assembly (11) is operably connected to the lock assembly (9, 10) for unlocking the lock assembly (9, 10) from the upper locked state.

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