Dishwasher with lid device

Abstract

A dishwasher comprises a frame (110; 310; 510) defining a treatment chamber (115; 315; 515) for items to be washed; a door assembly comprising a door (125; 325; 525) and a sliding member (180; 580), the door being movable between a closed position and an open position for selectively accessing the treatment chamber, the door comprising an access aperture (1401, 1402; 3401, 3402; 540) for allowing a user to access an adjustment member (135; 335; 535) actuatable to adjust a position of a decorative front panel (130; 330; 530) relative to the door, the sliding member being configured to slide along a sliding axis during movement of the door (L) a slide, the slide member being connectable to the decorative front panel such that when connected to the decorative front panel, sliding of the slide member during movement of the door causes the decorative front panel to slide relative to the door along a sliding axis; a cover device (190; 390; 390'; 590), the cover device being mounted or mountable on the door assembly and being configured to assume a first operating position and a second operating position when mounted on the door assembly, in which first operating position the cover device leaves the access opening of the door uncovered and in which second operating position the cover device at least partially covers the access opening of the door, the cover device being configured to mechanically cooperate with the slide member so as to automatically move from the first operating position to the second operating position in response to sliding of the slide member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of electrical appliances, in particular to the field of dishwashers, and more particularly to a dishwasher provided with (or adapted to be provided with) a cover device for safety purposes. Background Art

[0002] A conventional dishwasher comprises a body or frame (e.g., parallelepiped-shaped) defining a (e.g., hollow) treatment chamber for items to be washed (the items to be washed may include, for example, one or more of plates, cutlery, glasses, pots and pans); and a door movable between a closed position and an open position for selectively accessing the treatment chamber.

[0003] The door is typically pivoted to the base of the dishwasher (by means of a pair of lateral hinges); in this way, the door can rotate (while moving between closed and open positions) about a horizontal axis of rotation raised from the floor.

[0004] The dishwasher may be either freestanding or integrated with other pieces of furniture. In the latter case (but not only), a decorative front panel (typically having the same appearance as the other pieces of furniture) may be mounted on the door of the dishwasher.

[0005] In some countries, the decorative front panel has the same length as the door (where the base of the dishwasher is covered by the kitchen skirting board or pedestal); in other countries, on the contrary, the decorative front panel is longer than the door (so as to protrude under the door).

[0006] In both cases, the lower end of the decorative front panel may interfere with the skirting board when the door is in the open position (depending on the height of its pivot area) or even during the initial movement of the door from the closed position.

[0007] EP2407723 filed by the same applicant addresses this problem.

[0008] EP2407723 discloses a sliding member configured to slide along a sliding axis during door movement, wherein the sliding member can be coupled to a decorative front panel such that when the sliding member is coupled to the decorative front panel, sliding of the sliding member during door movement causes the decorative front panel to slide relative to the door along the sliding axis. EP2407723 also discloses an access aperture formed at a side of the door for allowing a user to access an adjustment member that can be actuated (by a user or operator) to adjust the position of the decorative front panel relative to the door. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The applicant has appreciated that the solution disclosed in EP2407723 may raise safety concerns.

[0010] Indeed, a user or operator (or worse, a child or infant) may accidentally insert his / her finger through the access aperture and touch the sliding member (which may cause injury, such as a cut or pinching).

[0011] To remedy this problem, a cap can be provided (e.g., as an accessory for a dishwasher) that the user or operator must install over the access opening after the decorative front panel is mounted to the door. However, according to the applicant, relying on the user or operator to install the cap does not address the safety issue, as the user or operator may forget to do so or even overlook its importance.

[0012] In this respect, the applicant has addressed the above-mentioned problem and has designed a dishwasher comprising a cover device configured to automatically move from a first operating position (in which the cover device leaves the access opening of the door uncovered) to a second operating position (in which the cover device at least partially covers the access opening of the door).

[0013] One or more aspects of the invention are set out in the specification where advantageous features of the invention are indicated in the specification, the wording of which is incorporated verbatim by reference (where any advantageous feature is provided with reference to a particular aspect of the invention which is to be analyzed by comparison with any other aspect).

[0014] More specifically, aspects of the present invention relate to a dishwasher. The dishwasher includes a frame that defines a treatment chamber for items to be washed. The dishwasher includes a door assembly. The door assembly includes a door that is movable between a closed position and an open position for selectively accessing the treatment chamber. The door includes an access aperture for allowing a user to access an adjustment member that is actuatable to adjust the position of a decorative front panel relative to the door. The door assembly includes a sliding member configured to slide along a sliding axis during movement of the door. The sliding member is coupleable to the decorative front panel such that, when coupled to the decorative front panel, sliding of the sliding member during movement of the door causes the decorative front panel to slide relative to the door along the sliding axis. The dishwasher includes a cover device that is mounted or mountable on the door assembly and is configured to, when mounted on the door assembly, assume a first operating position in which the cover device exposes the door access aperture and a second operating position in which the cover device at least partially covers the door access aperture. The cover device is configured to mechanically cooperate with the sliding member to automatically move from the first operating position to the second operating position in response to sliding of the sliding member.

[0015] Automatic movement of the cover arrangement from the first to the second operating position advantageously allows avoiding reliance on a user or operator to cover the access aperture.

[0016] According to an embodiment, which features are in addition to or in place of any of the features of the previous embodiments, the cover device is mounted or mountable on the door.

[0017] Mounting the cover device on the door advantageously allows for easy installation of the cover device at the manufacturer's site.

[0018] According to an embodiment, which is a feature in addition to or instead of any feature of the previous embodiment, the door includes a guide member for guiding the cover device between a first operating position and a second operating position, the cover device being configured to move from the first operating position to the second operating position by sliding along the guide member.

[0019] Providing a guide member for guiding the cover arrangement by sliding between the first and second operating positions advantageously allows for automatic movement of the cover arrangement in a simple, practical and effective manner.

[0020] According to an embodiment, which is additional to or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the adjustment member is mechanically coupled to the sliding member so as to slide integrally therewith during movement of the door. The lid device includes a retaining member configured to retain the adjustment member during sliding of the adjustment member while the door is moved from a closed position to an open position, wherein sliding of the adjustment member exerts a force on the retaining member along the sliding axis, the force causing the lid device to move from a first operating position to a second operating position.

[0021] Providing a retaining member that retains the adjustment member advantageously allows automatic movement of the cover arrangement to be achieved by utilizing movement of an adjustment member already provided in the dishwasher to allow translation of the decorative front panel in response to door (rotational) movement.

[0022] According to an embodiment, which is additional or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the cover device includes an engagement member configured to engage an engagement area of ​​the door in the first operating position of the cover device. The force causes the engagement member to disengage the engagement area of ​​the door to move the cover device toward the second operating position.

[0023] Providing an engagement member for engaging the engagement area of ​​the door in the first operating position of the cover arrangement allows a stable connection between the door and the cover arrangement in the first operating position. This makes installation of the cover arrangement at the manufacturer's site even more feasible, as the engagement member prevents the cover arrangement from being accidentally separated from the door (in the first operating position) during transport and / or installation of the dishwasher.

[0024] According to an embodiment, which is additional or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the cover device is configured to resiliently flex to allow the engagement member to disengage the engagement area of ​​the door to move the cover device from the first operating position to the second operating position.

[0025] The resilient bending of the cover means advantageously allows the cover means to be moved out of the first operating position solely by the action of a force exerted by the adjustment member on the retaining member.

[0026] According to an embodiment, which is additional or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the cover device includes an engagement member configured to engage the engagement portion of the door in the second operating position of the cover device, the force causing the engagement member to engage the engagement portion of the door.

[0027] Providing an engagement member for engaging the engagement portion of the door in the second operating position of the cover arrangement allows for a stable coupling between the door and the cover arrangement in the second operating position which is therefore substantially unaffected by any subsequent door movement and / or any accidental contact of the cover arrangement.

[0028] According to an embodiment, which is a feature in addition to or instead of any feature of the previous embodiment, the cover device is configured to automatically move from the first operating position to the second operating position in response to a first door movement, and the engagement between the engagement member and the engagement portion allows the cover device to be maintained in the second operating position during each door movement after the first door movement.

[0029] The automatic movement of the cover device from the first operating position to the second operating position and the maintenance of the cover device in the second operating position during each subsequent door movement advantageously allow the cover device to cover the access opening throughout the life of the dishwasher (unless the access opening must be uncovered to access the adjustment member, for example for maintenance purposes), thereby avoiding the risk of injury and reducing the burden on the user to remember to cover the access opening.

[0030] According to an embodiment, which features are in addition to or instead of any of the features of the previous embodiments, the cover device is configured to be manually moved from the second operating position to the first operating position.

[0031] The manual movement of the cover device from the second operating position into the first operating position advantageously allows the access opening to be uncovered only when necessary and upon purposeful action by the user.

[0032] According to an embodiment, which is additional or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the door is configured to rotate about a rotation axis between a closed position and an open position. The lid device is configured to be manually moved from the second operating position to the first operating position when the door is rotated at least a predetermined rotation angle relative to the rotation axis.

[0033] Manual movement of the cover device from the second operating position to the first operating position when the door is in one or more predetermined positions (for example, when the door is rotated by at least one predetermined rotation angle relative to the rotation axis) advantageously allows the access opening to be uncovered only upon purposeful action by the user.

[0034] According to an embodiment, which is additional or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, each predetermined rotation angle corresponds to a distance between the retaining member and the regulating member of the cover device along the sliding axis, which distance is greater than the predetermined distance.

[0035] Manual movement of the cover device from the second operating position to the first operating position when the distance between the retaining member and the regulating member is greater than the predetermined distance advantageously allows avoiding that the retaining member blocks the cover device when the cover device is moved towards the first operating position; this simplifies the gesture required to manually move the cover device back to the first position (in practice, this gesture involves a downward sliding movement when the door is in the closed or substantially closed position).

[0036] According to an embodiment, which is additional or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the access aperture is provided on the side wall of the door.The cover device may be mounted or mounted on the outer face of the side wall of the door.

[0037] The fact that the cover device can be or is mounted on the outer face of the side wall of the door advantageously allows a user to easily access the cover device, eg for manually moving the cover device from the second operating position back to the first operating position.

[0038] According to an embodiment, which features are additional to or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the dishwasher comprises a guide aperture provided at a side wall of the door. According to an embodiment, the guide member comprises said guide aperture.

[0039] Providing the guide aperture at one side of the wall to act as a guide member advantageously allows the cover device to be mounted to the door from the outside.

[0040] According to an embodiment, which is additional to or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the cover device includes at least one friction member for providing a frictional coupling between the cover device and the door. According to an embodiment, the friction member is configured to be retained within the guide member by friction when no external force is applied to the cover device, and to slide frictionally within the guide member when an external force greater than the friction force between the friction member and the guide member is applied to the cover device.

[0041] Providing one or more friction members advantageously allows for a backup coupling function between the cover arrangement and the door (eg in the event that one or more engagement members of the cover arrangement break or become damaged).

[0042] According to an embodiment, which is additional or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the cover device includes at least one reinforcement member for strengthening the connection between the cover device and the door when the cover device is in the first operating position. According to an embodiment, the reinforcement member can be configured to abut against the aperture (e.g., to touch the bottom of the aperture) when the cover device is in the first operating position.

[0043] Providing one or more reinforcement members for strengthening the connection between the lid device and the door when the lid device is in the first operating position advantageously allows a backup connection function between the door and the lid device to be implemented in the first operating position (for example, in the event that one or more engaging members of the lid device are broken or damaged). This makes installation of the lid device at the manufacturer's site even more feasible, as the reinforcement members prevent the lid device from accidentally separating from the door (in the first operating position) during transportation and / or installation of the dishwasher.

[0044] According to an embodiment, a feature thereof is in addition to or in lieu of any feature of the previous embodiment, the access aperture comprises a first access aperture and a second access aperture. The engaging portion of the door may comprise a portion of the first access aperture. The cover device may comprise an anti-release member for preventing the cover device from accidentally being disconnected from the door when the cover device is in the second operating position. According to an embodiment, the anti-release member may be configured to abut a portion of the access aperture (e.g., the second access aperture) when the cover device is in the second operating position.

[0045] Providing an anti-release member advantageously allows for a backup coupling function between the door and the cover arrangement in the second operating position (eg in the event that one or more engagement members of the cover arrangement are broken or damaged).

[0046] According to an embodiment, which is additional to or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the cover device comprises a plate having an access hole which, in the first operating position of the cover device, matches the access aperture of the door.

[0047] Providing an access hole in the cover device that matches the access opening of the door in the first operating position of the cover device allows to avoid that the cover device in the first operating position blocks a user or operator from accessing the access opening, and in particular blocks the user or operator from inserting a screwdriver or wrench to reach the adjustment member.

[0048] According to an embodiment, which is a feature that is in addition to or instead of any feature of the previous embodiment, the door comprises an engagement hole for engaging the cover device and the door in the first operating position (the engagement area of ​​the door, for example, comprises said engagement hole of the door). According to an embodiment, the cover device can be configured to engage a portion of the access aperture in the second operating position (the engagement portion of the door, for example, comprises a portion of the access aperture).

[0049] According to an embodiment, which is a feature that is in addition to or instead of any feature of the previous embodiment, the sliding member is configured to slide in a first direction along the sliding axis when the door moves from the closed position to the open position, and to slide in a second direction opposite to the first direction when the door moves from the open position to the closed position. According to an embodiment, the cover device moves in the first direction when automatically moving from the first operating position to the second operating position; the force applied to the cover device (for example, on the retaining member) that allows the cover device to automatically move from the first operating position to the second operating position can, for example, include a first force in the first direction (the first force is, for example, a sliding force in the first direction). The cover device can be configured to be manually moved from the second operating position to the first operating position by applying a pulling force orthogonal to the sliding axis and a second force in the second direction along the sliding axis (the second force is a sliding force in the first direction) to the cover device.

[0050] Using a pulling force and a sliding force in the second direction to manually move the cover arrangement from the second operating position to the first operating position advantageously allows a user to easily restore the cover arrangement back to its first operating position.

[0051] Furthermore, applying a pulling and sliding force simultaneously is a sufficiently complex gesture that the manual movement from the second operating position to the first operating position must necessarily be performed purposefully by the user, which prevents a small child or infant from possibly doing so accidentally.

[0052] According to an embodiment, which is additional to or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the cover device comprises at least one gripping member for allowing a user to grasp the cover device.

[0053] Providing a gripping member advantageously allows a user to manually move the cover device between the first and second operating positions. In particular, providing a gripping member advantageously allows a user to manually move the cover device from the second operating position to the first operating position, the gripping member for example allowing the user to easily and effectively apply the pulling force and the second force.

[0054] According to an embodiment, which is additional to or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the cover device comprises one or more flexure grooves to enhance the resilience of the cover device during bending thereof.

[0055] Providing the flex grooves to enhance the resilience of the cover means during flexing thereof advantageously prevents the hardening of the material over time (due to aging) from causing the cover means to crack.

[0056] According to an embodiment, which is additional or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the access aperture is provided at the side wall of the door.The cover device may be mounted on the inner face of the side wall of the door.

[0057] Providing cover means on the inner face of the side wall of the door prevents the user from accidentally reaching the cover means, and therefore prevents it from accidentally moving. In addition, providing cover means on the inner face of the side wall of the door determines that the outward appearance of the dishwasher is more beautiful.

[0058] According to an embodiment, which features are additional to or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the dishwasher includes a guide aperture provided at a front wall of the door orthogonal to the door sidewall for guiding a cover device between a first operating position and a second operating position. The cover device may include: a plate configured to rest on an inner surface of the door sidewall; and a depending member protruding from the plate and configured to couple to the guide aperture.

[0059] Providing an overhanging member avoids structural modifications to the door, as the elongated slot, which in some conventional dishwashers is provided on the front wall of the outer door panel for assembling and adjusting the decorative front panel, can be used as a guide aperture (so no dedicated guide aperture is required).

[0060] According to an embodiment, in addition to or in lieu of any of the features of the previous embodiments, the overhanging member is configured to engage the door. According to an embodiment, the overhanging member comprises the engaging member.

[0061] According to an embodiment, which is a feature that is additional to or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the cover device includes at least one friction member for providing a frictional coupling between the cover device and the door, the friction member being configured to be retained within the guide member by friction when no external force is applied to the cover device, and to frictionally slide within the guide member when an external force higher than the friction force between the friction member and the guide member is applied to the cover device.

[0062] Providing one or more friction members advantageously allows for a backup coupling function between the cover arrangement and the door (eg in the event that one or more engagement members of the cover arrangement break or become damaged).

[0063] According to an embodiment, which is additional or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the door engagement region comprises an area of ​​the guide aperture, and the portion of the door comprises the door engagement hole.

[0064] According to an embodiment, a feature that is in addition to or in place of any feature of the previous embodiment, the sliding member is configured to slide in a first direction along the sliding axis when the door moves from the closed position to the open position, and to slide in a second direction opposite to the first direction when the door moves from the open position to the closed position. According to an embodiment, the cover device moves in the first direction when automatically moving from the first operating position to the second operating position; the force applied to the cover device (e.g., on the retaining member) that allows the cover device to automatically move from the first operating position to the second operating position can, for example, include a first force in the first direction (the first force is, for example, a sliding force in the first direction). The cover device can be configured to be manually moved from the second operating position to the first operating position by applying a thrust orthogonal to the sliding axis and a second force in a second direction along the sliding axis (the second force is a sliding force in the second direction).

[0065] Using a pushing force and a sliding force in the second direction to manually move the cover arrangement from the second operating position to the first operating position advantageously allows a user to easily restore the cover arrangement back to its first operating position.

[0066] Furthermore, applying a push and a slide force simultaneously is a sufficiently complex gesture that the manual movement from the second operating position to the first operating position must necessarily be performed purposefully by the user, which prevents a small child or infant from possibly doing so accidentally.

[0067] According to an embodiment, which is a feature in addition to or instead of any feature of the previous embodiment, the cover device is mounted on the sliding member, whereby the cover device is configured to move from a first operating position to a second operating position when the door moves from a closed position to an open position, and from the second operating position to the first operating position when the door moves from the open position back to the closed position.

[0068] Mounting the cover device on the sliding member advantageously allows the cover device to be moved fully automatically between the first and second operating positions.

[0069] According to an embodiment, which is additional to or alternative to any of the features of the previous embodiments, the cover device is mounted on the sliding member by snap-fitting.

[0070] Mounting of the cover device on the sliding member by snap-fit ​​advantageously allows obtaining a simple, quick and effective coupling between the cover device and the sliding member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0071] These and other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of some exemplary and non-limiting embodiments thereof; for a better understanding thereof, the following description should be read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0072] Figures 1A to 1Dshows a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention in different operating positions;

[0073] Figure 1E The embodiment according to the present invention is shown Figures 1A to 1D A portion of the dishwasher door;

[0074] Figures 1F to 1H The embodiment according to the present invention is shown Figures 1A to 1D Dishwasher door hinges;

[0075] Figure 2A as well as Figures 2B to 2C The embodiment of the present invention is shown respectively. Figures 1A to 1D A perspective front view and a perspective rear view of a lid assembly of a dishwasher;

[0076] Figures 3A to 3C shows a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention in different operating positions;

[0077] Figure 4A The embodiment according to the present invention is shown Figure 3A and Figure 3B A perspective front view and a perspective rear view of a lid assembly of a dishwasher;

[0078] Figure 4B The embodiment of the present invention is shown as follows: Figure 4A Cover device;

[0079] Figure 4C The embodiment according to the present invention is shown Figure 4A perspective front and rear views of variations of the cover device;

[0080] Figure 4D The embodiment of the present invention is shown as follows: Figure 4C Cover device;

[0081] Figures 5A to 5C shows a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention in different operating positions;

[0082] Figure 5D The embodiment according to the present invention is shown Figures 5A to 5C part of the dishwasher;

[0083] Figures 5E to 5G shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the present invention in different operating positions. 5A to 5D The dishwasher door hinges, and

[0084] Figure 6 The embodiment according to the present invention is shown Figures 5A to 5C A lid device and a sliding member of a dishwasher. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0085] The accompanying drawings generally illustrate a dishwasher equipped with a cover device for safety purposes according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] In the following, unless otherwise indicated and / or unless there is an obvious incompatibility among the feature combinations, when one or more features of the dishwasher (and its components) and the lid device (and its components) are introduced by the wording "according to an embodiment", they are to be interpreted as supplementary or alternative features to any previously introduced features.

[0087] In the following, only the features of the dishwasher which are considered relevant for an understanding of the present invention will be discussed, wherein well-known features and / or obvious variants of relevant features are omitted for the sake of brevity.

[0088] In the following, directional terms (e.g., top, bottom, front, rear, center, side, upper, and lower) are used only to describe the dishwasher (and its components) and the lid device (and its components) according to their intended orientation for use, and therefore the directional terms should not be interpreted in absolute terms under any circumstances. In particular, the directional terms refer to mutually orthogonal reference axes X, Y, and Z (hereinafter referred to as the longitudinal axis, vertical axis, and transverse axis, respectively).

[0089] refer to Figures 1A to 1D , which show perspective side views of a dishwasher 100 according to an embodiment of the invention in different operating positions. Figures 1A to 1D Each of them also shows a cross-sectional view of the dishwasher 100 along the II cross-sectional axis, each cross-sectional view illustrating the corresponding interaction between the cover device and the door of the dishwasher 100.

[0090] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 100 includes a base 105 for placing the dishwasher 100 on a supporting surface (not shown in the figures), which is, for example, parallel to a plane defined by the longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Z (hereinafter referred to as the XZ plane), such as a supporting surface of a floor or a suitable niche of furniture on which the dishwasher 100 can be installed.

[0091] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 100 comprises a (eg parallelepiped-shaped) body or frame 110 .

[0092] According to an embodiment, the frame 110 defines a (eg hollow) treatment chamber 115 for items to be washed. According to an embodiment, the items to be washed include one or more of dishes, cutlery, glasses, pots and pans.

[0093] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 100 includes a pull-out rack (not shown in the drawings) within the treatment chamber 115 for inserting items to be washed into the treatment chamber 115 .

[0094] According to an embodiment, the frame 110 includes a top wall 110 parallel to the XZ plane. T and bottom wall 110 B , a rear wall 110 parallel to a plane defined by the longitudinal axis X and the vertical axis Y (hereinafter referred to as the XY plane) R , and perpendicular to the top wall 110 T , bottom wall 110 B and rear wall 110 R The two side walls 110 S1 , 110 S2 (ie, parallel to the plane defined by the vertical axis Y and the transverse axis Z, hereinafter referred to as the YZ plane). Side wall 110 S1 , 110 S2 The outside (ie, the side wall 110 S1 , 110 S2 The side of the dishwasher 100 that does not face the treatment chamber 115 is usually covered by external side panels (not shown in the figures), which are typically part of the piece of furniture in which the dishwasher 100 is installed.

[0095] According to an embodiment, the frame 110 defines a front loading opening 120 that is parallel to the XY plane and is aligned with the rear wall 110 along the transverse axis Z. R relatively.

[0096] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 100 includes a door assembly.

[0097] According to an embodiment, the door assembly includes a door 125 for selectively opening the front loading opening 120 and, thus, for selectively accessing the processing chamber 115 .

[0098] According to an embodiment, the door 125 is movable (eg, rotatable) between a closed position and an open position.

[0099] The door 125 is shown schematically as Figure 1A and Figure 1D In the closed position, Figure 1B is in a partially open position and Figure 1C is in the open position.

[0100] According to an embodiment, the door 125 includes an outer door panel 125 O and inner door panel 125 I .

[0101] According to an embodiment, the inner door panel 125 IInstalled on outer door panel 125 O On the rear side, the outer door panel 125 O The rear face of the housing 125 faces the processing chamber 115 , for example, when the door 125 is in the closed position.

[0102] According to an embodiment, the outer door panel 125 O and inner door panel 125 I The dimensions are determined so that when making the outer door panel 125 O and inner door panel 125 I When installing, the outer door panel 125 O A portion of the rear face (preferably, the peripheral edge portion) is not covered by the inner door panel 125 I Rather, the cover acts as an abutment portion that abuts a boundary of the front loading opening 120 to seal the processing chamber 115 when the door 125 is in the closed position.

[0103] According to an embodiment, the door assembly includes a door hinge 125 for rotatably coupling the door 125 to the base 105. H , so that the door 125 can rotate relative to the frame 110 about a horizontal rotation axis (elevated from the floor) parallel to the longitudinal axis X. According to an embodiment, the door 125 can be moved from the closed position to the open position by a downward movement, and from the open position to the closed position by an upward movement.

[0104] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 100 can be a fully integrated dishwasher or a semi-integrated dishwasher. By a fully integrated dishwasher, this means that when the door 125 is in the closed position, the dishwasher 100 may be completely indistinguishable from the other pieces of furniture in which it is installed. By a semi-integrated dishwasher, this means that when the door 125 is in the closed position, the dishwasher 100 may be partially indistinguishable from the other pieces of furniture in which it is installed. For this purpose, when the dishwasher is installed, the door 125 can be connected to a decorative front panel 130 so as to be completely or almost completely covered by it. According to an embodiment, the decorative front panel 130 (which is not part of the dishwasher 100) has the same appearance as the other pieces of furniture, or it is at least coordinated with the other pieces of furniture, and the decorative front panel 130 is, for example, made of wood.

[0105] According to an embodiment, the door hinge 125 H The fastening system is included for fastening the decorative front panel 130 to the door 125 and for adjusting the position of the decorative front panel 130 relative to the door 125 (i.e., the vertical position, with the door 125 in the closed position as a reference). The fastening system will be better discussed below (in Figures 1A to 1D not fully visible in the image).

[0106] For purposes of this disclosure, a fastening system includes an actuatable or adjustable member, such as an adjustment screw 135 (eg, made of a metallic or other rigid material) adapted to be tightened / loosened or rotated by a user or operator.

[0107] According to an embodiment, the door includes one or more access apertures for allowing a user or operator to access and actuate (eg, by inserting a screwdriver or wrench) the adjustment screw 135 .

[0108] According to an embodiment, the access aperture(s) are provided on the outer door panel 125 O The door 125 may be located at a location such as a lower end region of a side wall thereof, which lower end region is visible to a user when the door 125 is not in the closed position.

[0109] Also refer to Figure 1E , which shows the outside of a door side wall according to an embodiment of the present invention, and in particular shows the outer door panel 125 O outside of the side wall.

[0110] According to an embodiment, the outer door panel 125 O Two access apertures 1401, 1402 are included. According to an embodiment, the access apertures 1401, 1402 are aligned with each other along a vertical axis Y so as to define a lower access aperture 1401 and an upper access aperture 1402 (taking as reference the usage orientation of the dishwasher 100 and the door 125 in the closed position).

[0111] In accordance with an embodiment, each access opening 1401, 1402 is designed (i.e., shaped and sized) to allow a user to access and actuate the adjustment screw 135 in a corresponding position of the door 125 (as better discussed below, the adjustment screw 135 moves in response to door movement, whereby the adjustment screw 135 can be accessed through the lower access opening 1401 or through the upper access opening 1402, depending on the position of the door 125).

[0112] According to an embodiment, the lower access aperture 1401 is designed to allow a user to access and actuate the adjustment screw 135 when the door 125 is nearly in a closed position, such as for assembling the decorative front panel 130 on the door 125 .

[0113] In accordance with an embodiment, the upper access opening 1402 is designed (i.e., shaped and sized) to allow a user to access and actuate the adjustment screw 135 when the door 125 is in a predetermined (e.g., substantially intermediate) position between the closed position and the open position (the intermediate position corresponding, for example, to a rotation angle of the door 125 of approximately 45 degrees relative to the vertical axis Y), for example for adjusting the vertical position of the decorative front panel 130 on the door 125 and / or for removing the decorative front panel 130 from the door 125.

[0114] According to an embodiment, each access aperture 1401 , 1402 is circular (or substantially circular) in shape and is large enough to allow a user or operator to access and actuate (eg, by inserting a screwdriver or wrench) the adjustment screw 135 .

[0115] According to an embodiment, the door 125 is for example provided on the outer door panel 125. O According to an embodiment, the door 125 includes one or more guide members, such as one or more guide apertures, at the side of the door 125. O The side of the device includes two guide holes 140 1G , 140 2G , each guide opening 140 1G , 140 2G Preferably associated with respective access apertures 1401, 1402. According to an embodiment, the guide apertures 140 1G , 140 2G are aligned with each other along the vertical axis Y. According to an embodiment, each guide aperture 140 1G , 140 2G Extending along the vertical axis Y, each guide aperture 140 1G , 140 2G According to the embodiment, each guide hole 140 1G , 140 2G Arranged at the top of (and extending from the top of) the respective access apertures 1401 , 1402. According to an embodiment, the guide apertures 140 1G Opening downward to the orifice 1401 (eg, the top of the lower access orifice) (which will be referred to as the lower guide orifice 140 1G ), and guide orifice 140 2G The upper access aperture 1402 (eg, the top of the upper access aperture) (which will be referred to as the upper guide aperture 1402) is opened. 2G the reason).

[0116] According to an embodiment, the guide aperture 140 1G , 140 2G Designed to allow the cover device to move / slide during movement / sliding of the decorative front panel 130 relative to the door 125 (so as to cover the access openings 1401, 1402, as better discussed below). As better discussed below, the guide opening 140 1G , 140 2GThe cover device is allowed to be guided between a first operating position (hereinafter the open position) in which the cover device leaves the access openings 1401, 1402 uncovered and a second operating position (hereinafter the closed position) in which the cover device at least partially covers the access openings 1401, 1402. As better discussed below, the cover device is configured to be guided along the guide openings 1401, 1402. 1G , 140 2G Slide (or by sliding along a single guide aperture, such as in embodiments where a single access aperture and a single guide aperture are provided) to move or switch from the open position to the closed position.

[0117] According to an embodiment, the door 125 is for example provided on the outer door panel 125. O The side of the 1E According to an embodiment, the engaging hole 140 1E Arranged along the vertical axis Y below the lower access opening 1401 .

[0118] As better discussed below, the engagement hole 140 1E Designed to receive an engagement member (e.g., engagement teeth) of the cover device, for example, so as to stably hold the cover device in an open position. Therefore, the cover device can advantageously be installed on the door assembly at the manufacturer's site (thereby alleviating this burden on the user).

[0119] According to an embodiment, the door hinge 125 H Including sliding system (in Figures 1A to 1D ), for allowing the decorative front panel 130 to slide relative to the door 125 during door movement (ie, when the door 125 moves between the closed position and the open position).

[0120] According to an embodiment, the sliding system is configured to slide along a sliding axis L that is substantially orthogonal to the rotation axis of the door 125 (the sliding axis is parallel to the vertical axis Y when the door 125 is in the closed position, and is parallel to the transverse axis Z when the door 125 is in the open position). According to an embodiment, the sliding system is configured to slide along the sliding axis L in a first direction L1 (hereinafter referred to as a forward direction) when the door 125 moves from the closed position to the open position, and to slide in a second direction L2 (hereinafter referred to as a rearward direction) opposite to the forward direction L1 when the door 125 moves from the open position to the closed position.

[0121] As better discussed below, the sliding system can be coupled to the decorative front panel 130 such that, when coupled to the decorative front panel 130, sliding of the sliding system during door movement causes the decorative front panel 130 to slide relative to the door 125 along the sliding axis L, thereby avoiding interference of the decorative front panel 130 with any furniture skirting (not shown).

[0122] As better discussed below, the fastening system is mechanically coupled to the sliding system so as to slide integrally therewith during door movement, and the adjustment screw 135 is therefore movable along the sliding axis L as the sliding system (and thus the door) slides.

[0123] Also refer to Figures 1F to 1H , which show a door hinge 125 in different operating positions according to an embodiment of the present invention. H .

[0124] According to an embodiment, the door hinge 125 H A door hinge similar to that disclosed in EP2407723 (the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference).

[0125] According to an embodiment, the door hinge 125 H Includes hinges for door 125 H Support brackets 145 connected to the frame 110 (eg, by means of corresponding screws (not shown)).

[0126] According to an embodiment, the door hinge 125 H A drive mechanism 150 is included. According to an embodiment, the drive mechanism 150 is of lever type.

[0127] According to an embodiment, the door hinge 125 H A door balancing device 155 is included that is configured to counterbalance the weight of the door 125 and its decorative front panel (not shown).

[0128] According to an embodiment, the door hinge 125 H A coupling mechanism 160 is included for coupling the driving mechanism 150 and the balancing device 155 to each other.

[0129] According to an embodiment, the door hinge 125 H Includes a door 125 and a door hinge 125 H Rotating brackets 165 connected to each other. According to an embodiment, the rotating bracket 165 is rotationally connected to the supporting bracket 145 by means of a fulcrum pin 170; in this way, the door 125 (connected to the rotating bracket 165) can rotate relative to the frame 110 (connected to the supporting bracket 145) about the fulcrum pin 170, which then defines its axis of rotation.

[0130] According to an embodiment, the rotating bracket 165 includes an elongated guide structure 165 G , the elongated guide structure extends substantially orthogonally relative to the rotation axis of the door 125 (elongated guide structure 165 G Thus extending along the sliding axis L). According to an embodiment, the elongated guide structure 165 GAn elongated access window is included that is provided along the rotating bracket 165 , for example substantially in the middle of the rotating bracket 165 .

[0131] According to an embodiment, the fastening system comprises an adjusting screw 135 .

[0132] According to an embodiment, the fastening system includes a fastening bracket 175. According to an embodiment, the fastening bracket 175 has an L-shaped profile and includes, for example, a first plate 1751 (hereinafter referred to as the longitudinal plate 1751), which is parallel to the decorative front panel 130 when in use; and a second plate 1752 (hereinafter referred to as the transverse plate 1752) perpendicular to the first plate 1751 and parallel to the rotating bracket 165 when in use. According to an embodiment, the longitudinal plate 1751 of the fastening bracket 175 includes one or more (for example, two) holes, which are configured to receive corresponding fastening screws (for example, self-tapping screws (not shown)) screwed into the decorative front panel 130 (so as to hold the fastening bracket 175, and in particular the longitudinal plate 1751 thereof, on the decorative front panel 130).

[0133] According to an embodiment, the fastening bracket 175 comprises, for example, an adjustment slot-shaped hole 175 at its transverse plate 1752. H As discussed better below, the adjustment screw 135 is configured to be inserted through the adjustment slotted hole 175 H to mechanically couple the fastening system to the sliding system to allow the decorative front panel to slide relative to the door 125 during door movement.

[0134] According to an embodiment, the sliding system includes a sliding member 180 that is moved along the elongated guide structure 165 of the rotating bracket 165. G Slidably guided.

[0135] According to an embodiment, the sliding member 180 includes a threaded hole (not shown) adapted to receive the adjustment screw 135. According to an embodiment, by inserting (and tightening) the adjustment screw 135 through the adjustment slotted hole 175, the adjustment screw 135 is adjusted. H , elongated guide structure 165 G The fastening bracket 175 is held on the sliding member 180 by the access window and the threaded hole of the sliding member 180. According to an embodiment, the fastening bracket 175 abuts against a gasket (not shown) of the sliding member 180 to allow it to slide with the sliding member 180, and the gasket maintains the fastening bracket 175 in contact with the elongated guide structure 165. G Spaced apart.

[0136] According to an embodiment, the sliding system includes a crank mechanism 185 connected between the drive mechanism 150 and the sliding member 180 to convert the rocking movement of the drive mechanism 150 into a translation movement of the sliding member 180 (to achieve the sliding member 180 moving along the elongated guide structure 165). G , and the corresponding sliding of the securing bracket 175 and thus the decorative front panel 130 secured thereto relative to the door 125).

[0137] According to an embodiment, the crank mechanism 185 includes a transmission arm 1851, which is connected to the rocker arm of the drive mechanism 150 at its first end and is connected to the sliding member 180 at its second end by means of a pin 1852 (the transmission arm 1851 is, for example, connected to the sliding member 180 at its lower end below the fastening bracket 175).

[0138] like Figure 1F As can be seen, when the door 125 (not shown) is in the closed position, the rotating bracket 165 extends along the vertical axis Y to contact the support bracket 145, and the sliding member 180 extends along the elongated guide structure 165. G In a lower position.

[0139] like Figure 1G As can be seen in FIG. 1 , when the door 125 (not shown in this figure) is in the partially open position, the rotating bracket 165 (connected to the door 125) rotates relative to the support bracket 145 about the fulcrum pin 170 so as to move away from the support bracket 145 (connected to the frame 110, not shown in this figure). The corresponding rotation of the rocker arm of the drive mechanism 150 pushes the transmission arm 1851 away from the fulcrum pin 170 so as to cause the sliding member 180 (and the fastening bracket 175 coupled thereto) to move along the elongated guide structure 165. G Pan.

[0140] like Figure 1H As can be seen in FIG, the rotation of the rotating bracket 165 (and thus the opening of the door 125, not shown in this figure) stops when it reaches a maximum opening angle of approximately 85° to 90° (e.g., where the rotating bracket 165 abuts the bottom of the support bracket 145). According to an embodiment, in this position, the sliding member 180 reaches the elongated guide structure 165. G The end of the journey.

[0141] Return to Figures 1A to 1EAs mentioned above, the dishwasher 100 includes a cover device 190, which can be mounted on the door assembly and is configured to adopt an open position (in which the cover device 190 leaves the access openings 1401, 1402 of the door 125 uncovered) and a closed position (in which the cover device 190 at least partially, preferably completely, covers the access openings 1401, 1402 of the door 125) when mounted on the door assembly.

[0142] According to an embodiment, in the closed position, the cover arrangement 190 covers both access apertures 1401 , 1402 .

[0143] According to an embodiment, the lid arrangement 190 is configured to mechanically cooperate / interact with the sliding system so as to automatically move from the open position to the closed position in response to sliding of the sliding system.

[0144] Also refer to Figure 2A as well as Figures 2B to 2C , which respectively show a perspective front view and a perspective rear view of a cover device 190 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 may be mounted on the door 125 .

[0146] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 may be installed on a side wall of the door 125 .

[0147] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 may be mounted on the outside of the side wall of the door 125 (in the example in question, the cover device is mounted on the outside of the side wall of the door 125). Figure 1E The outer door panel 125 shown in O on the outside of the side wall).

[0148] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 includes a plate 205 (ie, a substantially flat and relatively thin sheet of material) whereby when the cover device 190 is externally mounted to the door 125 (eg, at the exterior door panel 125) O When the cover device 190 is disposed on the outer side of the side wall of the door, the cover device 190 does not interfere with the frame 110 during movement of the door.

[0149] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 is rectangular in shape.

[0150] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 is made of a material exhibiting elastic properties, enabling the cover device 190 to be (slightly) temporarily deformed during its sliding (as better discussed below).According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 is made of a plastic material.

[0151] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 includes one or more access holes for allowing a user or operator to access the access aperture(s) 1401, 1402. According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 includes two access holes 2101, 2102, the access hole 2101 being associated with, for example, the lower access aperture 1401 (for which it will be referred to as the lower access hole 2101), and the access hole 2102 being associated with, for example, the upper access aperture 1402 (for which it will be referred to as the upper access hole 2102).

[0152] According to an embodiment, the access holes 2101, 2102 are designed (i.e., their shape and size are determined) so that when the cover device 190 is installed on the door 125 in the open position, the access holes 2101, 2102 do not cover the access openings 1401, 1402, respectively, thereby allowing a user or operator to access the adjustment screw 135 through the access holes 2101, 2102 of the cover device 190 and the access openings 1401, 1402 of the door 125.

[0153] According to an embodiment, the shape of the access holes 2101 , 2102 is substantially circular, for example in order to match the shape of the access openings 1401 , 1402 .

[0154] According to an embodiment, the cover assembly 190 includes an engagement member, such as an engagement tooth 215. According to an embodiment, the engagement tooth 215 is configured to engage a corresponding engagement area or portion of the door 125 in the open position and the closed position of the cover assembly 190. As discussed better below, according to an embodiment, the engagement tooth 215 is configured to engage the outer door panel 125 when the cover assembly 190 is in the open position. O The engagement hole 140 1E (Joint hole 140 1E The bottom of the lower contact opening 1401 (e.g., the bottom of the lower contact opening 1401) thus serves as an engagement area or portion for the engagement tooth 215 in the open position of the cover device 190), and engages the bottom of the lower contact opening 1401 when the cover device 190 is in the closed position (the bottom of the lower contact opening 1401 (e.g., the bottom of the lower contact opening 1401) thus serves as an engagement area or portion for the engagement tooth 215 in the closed position of the cover device 190).

[0155] According to an embodiment, the engaging teeth 215 are arranged below the access hole 2101 along the vertical axis Y (considering the orientation of use of the cover device 190, i.e. when it is mounted on the door 125), at a distance substantially corresponding to the engagement hole 140. 1E According to an embodiment, the engaging teeth 215 are located at a position from the side of the plate 205 that faces the outer door panel 125 in use. O The outer surface of the side wall (hereinafter referred to as the rear surface) 205 R Protruding perpendicular to the plate 205, the rear surface 205R The surface 205 of the cover device 190 that is visible to the user during use (hereinafter referred to as the front surface) F relatively.

[0156] According to an embodiment, as can be seen in the figure, the engaging teeth 215 include a chamfered edge 215 facing the access holes 2101, 2102. B , and with beveled edge 215 B Opposite upright edges 215 U As better discussed below, the beveled edge 215 B Promoting the engagement teeth 215 to disengage from the engagement holes 140 1E , while the upright edge 215 U It is determined that the engagement teeth 215 are engaged at the bottom of the lower touchdown aperture 1401 .

[0157] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 includes a cover for connecting between the cover device 190 and the door 125 (eg, between the cover device 190 and the outer door panel 125). O One or more friction members providing friction coupling between.

[0158] According to an embodiment, the friction member(s) include a sliding shoe 2201 associated with the lower contact hole 2101 (for which reason it will also be referred to as the lower sliding shoe 2201 ).

[0159] According to an embodiment, the lower sliding shoe 2201 is provided at the top of the lower access hole 2101 so as to be substantially located at the lower guide aperture 140 when the cover device 190 is in the open position. 1G According to an embodiment, the lowering shoe 2201 is designed (i.e., its shape and size are determined) to be coupled and held on the lower guide hole 140 by friction when no external force is applied to the cover device 190. 1G and when the external force (higher than the sliding shoe 2201 and the lower guide hole 140 1G When the friction force between the edges of the cover 190 is applied to the lower guide hole 140 1G According to an embodiment, the sliding shoe 2201 slides down from the rear surface 205 of the plate 205. R According to an embodiment, the sliding shoe 2201 extends from the rear surface 205 of the plate 205. R It extends to such an extent that it does not interfere with the adjusting screw 135 during its sliding motion.

[0160] Although the lowering shoe 2201 may be omitted in the basic embodiment, the lowering shoe 2201 may advantageously provide a connection between the cover device 190 and the outer door panel 125. OA backup coupling function between the engaging teeth 215 (for example, in the event that the engaging teeth 215 are broken or damaged).

[0161] According to an embodiment, the friction member(s) include a shoe 2202 associated with the upper access hole 2102 (for which reason it will also be referred to as an upper shoe 2202 ).

[0162] According to an embodiment, the upper sliding shoe 2202 is provided at the top of the upper access hole 2102 so as to be substantially located above the upper guide aperture 140 when the cover device 190 is in the open position. 2G According to an embodiment, the upper shoe 2202 is designed (i.e., its shape and size are determined) to be coupled and held in the upper guide hole 140 by friction when no external force is applied to the cover device 190. 2G and when the external force (higher than the upper sliding shoe 2202 and the upper guide hole 140 2G When the friction force between the edges of the cover 190 is applied to the upper guide hole 140 2G According to an embodiment, the upper shoe 2202 slides from the rear surface 205 of the plate 205. R According to an embodiment, the upper shoe 2202 extends from the rear surface 205 of the plate 205. R It extends to such an extent that it does not interfere with the adjusting screw 135 during its sliding motion.

[0163] Although the upper shoe 2202 may be omitted in the basic embodiment, the upper shoe 2202 may advantageously provide a connection between the cover device 190 and the outer door panel 125. O A backup connection function between (for example, in the event of a break or damage of the retaining element discussed below).

[0164] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 includes a plurality of components for strengthening the connection between the cover device 190 and the door 125 (eg, the cover device 190 and the outer door panel 125). O One or more reinforcing members for the connection between).

[0165] According to an embodiment, the reinforcement member(s) include a reinforcement pin 225. According to an embodiment, the reinforcement pin 225 is provided at the bottom of the lower access hole 2101, the reinforcement pin 225 being opposite to the lower shoe 2201, for example, along the vertical axis Y. According to an embodiment, the reinforcement pin 225 is designed (i.e., its shape and size are determined) to abut the bottom of the lower access aperture 1401 when the cover device 190 is in the open position. According to an embodiment, the reinforcement pin 225 extends from the rear surface 205 of the plate 205. R According to an embodiment, the reinforcing pin 225 extends from the rear surface 205 of the plate 205. RIt extends to such an extent that it does not interfere with the adjusting screw 135 during its sliding motion.

[0166] Although the reinforcement pin 225 may be omitted in the basic embodiment, the reinforcement pin 225 may advantageously provide the cover device 190 with the outer door panel 125 in the open position of the cover device 190. O A backup coupling function between the engaging teeth 215 (in the event that the engaging teeth 215 are broken or damaged).

[0167] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 includes a cover for preventing the cover device 190 from easily (and thus accidentally) coming into contact with the door 125 (eg, with the outer door panel 125). O ) Anti-release member that is disengaged from the connection.

[0168] According to an embodiment, the anti-release member includes an anti-release tooth 230. According to an embodiment, the anti-release tooth 230 is provided at the bottom of the upper access hole 2102. According to an embodiment, the anti-release tooth is designed (i.e., its shape and size are determined) to abut the bottom of the upper access hole 1402 when the cover device 190 is in the open position. According to an embodiment, the anti-release tooth 230 is provided from the rear surface 205 of the plate 205. R According to an embodiment, the anti-release teeth 230 extend from the rear surface 205 of the plate 205. R It extends to such an extent that it does not interfere with the adjusting screw 135 during its sliding motion.

[0169] According to an embodiment, as can be seen in the figure, the anti-release tooth 230 is similar in structure to the engaging tooth 215. According to an embodiment, the anti-release tooth 230 includes a beveled edge 230 B According to an embodiment, the beveled edge 230 B According to an embodiment, when the cover device 190 is in the open position, the anti-release teeth 230 are aligned with the beveled edge 230. B The opposing upright edges abut the bottom of the upper access opening 1402 to prevent the cover device 190 from sliding when it is in the open position (in the rearward sliding direction L2 and particularly downward along the vertical axis Y when the door is in the closed position).

[0170] Although the anti-release teeth 230 may be omitted in basic embodiments, the anti-release teeth 230 advantageously prevent the cover assembly 190 from easily (and thus accidentally) coming into contact with the outer door panel 125 when the cover assembly 190 is in the open position. O It is decoupled and a force in the rearward direction L2 is accidentally applied thereto.

[0171] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 includes one or more flexure members to enhance the resilience of the cover device 190 (particularly the plate 205) during its bending—in fact, as better discussed below, the cover device 190 both automatically slides from the open position to the closed position (i.e., in order to allow the engagement teeth 215 to disengage the engagement holes 140). 1E ), and also experiences flexure when manually sliding from the closed position to the open position (ie, so as to allow the engaging teeth 215 to disengage the lower access hole 1401).

[0172] According to an embodiment, the flexure member(s) include one or more flexure grooves to enhance the resilience of the cover device 190 (particularly the plate 205) during its bending along the grooves. According to an embodiment, the flexure groove(s) or at least a subset thereof are provided on the rear surface 205 of the plate 205. R superior.

[0173] According to an embodiment, the flex groove(s) include circular (eg, semi-circular) flex grooves 235 .

[0174] According to an embodiment, the flex groove 235 is disposed below the upper access hole 2102 along the vertical axis Y. According to an embodiment, the flex groove 235 is disposed below the anti-release tooth 230 along the vertical axis Y.

[0175] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 includes a retaining member 240 for retaining the adjustment screw 135 when moving the door 125 from the closed position to the open position.

[0176] According to an embodiment, the retaining member 240 extends from the rear surface 205 of the plate 205. R According to an embodiment, the retaining member 240 extends from the rear surface 205 of the plate 205. R The adjustment screw 135 extends to such an extent that it interferes with the adjustment screw during its sliding. According to an embodiment, when the door 125 is moved from the closed position to the open position, the sliding of the adjustment screw 135 (which slides integrally with the sliding member 180) exerts a force (hereinafter referred to as the forward sliding force) along the sliding axis L (and in particular, along the forward direction L1) on the retaining member 240, which causes the cover device 190 to move from the open position to the closed position (as mentioned above, the forward sliding force causes the engaging teeth 215 to disengage from the engaging holes 140). 1E and engage the lower contact opening 1401).

[0177] As mentioned above, according to an embodiment, the retaining member 240 is designed (i.e., its shape and size are determined) so as to provide a coupling function also at the top of the cover device 190. According to an embodiment, such coupling function at the top of the cover device 190 includes the retaining member 240 (i.e., its side edge) and the upper guide aperture 140. 2G This allows for increased coupling between the cover device 190 and the door 125.

[0178] According to an embodiment, the cover arrangement 190 includes one or more gripping members for allowing a user or operator to manually move the cover arrangement 190 from the closed position to the open position.

[0179] According to an embodiment, the gripping member(s) include a recessed grip 245. According to an embodiment, the recessed grip 245 is formed on the rear surface 205 of the plate. F On the bottom of the plate 205 (consider Figures 1A to 1D ).

[0180] The operation of the cover device 190 can be summarized as follows.

[0181] When the cover device 190 is in the open position ( Figure 1A ) is installed on the door 125, the access holes 2101, 2102 do not cover the access openings 1401, 1402 (so that a user or operator can access the adjustment screw 135 through the access holes 2101, 2102 of the cover device 190 and the access openings 1401, 1402 of the door 125 to fasten the decorative front panel 130 to the door 125 and adjust the vertical position of the decorative front panel 130 relative to the door 125), and the engaging teeth 215 engage the engaging holes 140 1E (eg, it is mounted into the engagement hole), the sliding shoes 2201, 2202 are frictionally coupled to the guide aperture 140 1G , 140 2G The reinforcing pin 225 abuts against the bottom of the lower access hole 1401, the anti-release tooth 230 abuts against the bottom of the upper access hole 1402, and the retaining member 240 is located at the upper guide hole 140 2G The inner (retaining member 240 is frictionally retained in the upper guide aperture 140 2G between the edges of the

[0182] The movement of the door 125 from the closed position to the open position causes the sliding system (and therefore the adjustment screw 135) to slide in the forward direction L1 along the sliding axis L. When the door 125 is in a predetermined position (hereinafter referred to as the retaining position) between the closed position and the open position, the adjustment screw 135 is retained by the retaining member 240 ( Figure 1B) is retained (when sliding). According to an embodiment, the retained position corresponds to a rotation angle of the door 125 relative to the vertical axis Y of approximately 60 to 70 degrees.

[0183] The door 125 moves from the blocking position to the open position ( Figure 1C ) causes the adjustment screw 135 to apply a forward sliding force to the retaining member 240 (the forward sliding force acting in the forward direction L1 along the sliding axis L), which allows the cover device 190 to be (slightly) temporarily deformed at the flex groove 235 and allows the engagement tooth 215 to disengage the engagement hole 140 1E As mentioned above, the beveled edge 215 B , and in particular beveled edge 215 B The direction relative to the forward direction L1 promotes the engagement of the engaging teeth 215 with the engaging holes 140. 1E When the engaging teeth 215 are disengaged from the engaging holes 140 1E Thereafter, the forward sliding force exerted by the adjusting screw 135 (due to its sliding) on ​​the retaining member 240 determines the sliding of the cover device 190 through the guide aperture 140. 1G , 140 2G (In particular, the sliding shoes 2201, 2202 are moved forward in the forward direction L1 from the guide aperture 140 1G , 140 2G The bottom of the retaining member 240 slides frictionally, and the retaining member 240 guides the aperture 140 in the forward direction L1. 2G sliding with internal friction).

[0184] When the door 125 is in the open position ( Figure 1C ) in the middle, the retaining member 240 is basically located at the upper guide hole 140 2G At the end of the cover 190, the engaging teeth 215 are located at the bottom of the lower access aperture 1401, and the plate 205 (i.e., its solid portion) covers the access apertures 1401, 1402. This corresponds to the closed position of the cover device 190, which prevents a user or operator (or worse, a child or infant) from accidentally inserting his / her fingers through the access aperture and accessing the sliding system (which could cause injuries such as cuts or pinching).

[0185] Thus, according to an embodiment, the cover device 190 is configured to automatically move from the open position to the closed position in response to an initial movement of the door 125 from the closed position to the open position (the initial movement of the door being, for example but not necessarily, the first door movement performed after the decorative front panel 130 is installed).

[0186] Automatic movement of the cover device from the open position to the closed position allows avoiding reliance on a user or operator to cover the access aperture.

[0187] In the closed position of the cover device 190, the bottom of the opening 1401 is abutted by the engaging teeth 215 (in particular by their upright edges 215 U ) and by the frictional coupling provided by the sliding shoes 2201, 2202 and the retaining member 240, the cover device 190 is prevented from moving back to the open position. In addition, the movement of the door 125 from the open position to the closed position (which determines the movement of the adjustment screw 135 in the rearward direction L2 along the sliding axis L) does not affect the cover device 190 (in fact, when moving in the rearward direction L2, the adjustment screw 135 moves away from the retaining member 240), whereby the cover device 190 is stably in the closed position for any subsequent door movement unless the user or operator needs to move it to the open position to access the door adjustment screw 135 (as discussed herein below). Therefore, due to the engagement between the engagement teeth 215 and the lower access aperture 1401 (and preferably due to the frictional coupling provided by the sliding shoes 2201, 2202 and the retaining member 240), the cover device 190 is maintained in the closed position during each door movement after the initial door movement.

[0188] According to an embodiment, the cover assembly 190 is configured to be manually moved from a closed position to an open position (eg, for adjusting the vertical position of the decorative front panel 130 on the door 125 and / or for removing the decorative front panel 130 from the door 125 ).

[0189] According to an embodiment, the cover device 190 is configured to be manually moved from the closed position to the open position when the door is between the closed position and the partially open position along the sliding axis L. According to an embodiment, the partially open position corresponds to a distance greater than a predetermined distance, and in particular corresponds to a distance between the retaining member 240 and the adjustment screw 135 (along the sliding axis L) such that sliding of the cover device 190 (and therefore the retaining member 240) in the rearward direction L2 is not impeded by the adjustment screw 135. According to an embodiment, the partially open position of the door 125 (at which the cover device 190 can be moved from the closed position to the open position) corresponds to a rotation angle of the door 125 of approximately 30 to 40 degrees relative to the vertical axis Y. In other words, according to an embodiment, the cover device 190 is configured to be manually moved from the closed position to the open position when the door is rotated at least a predetermined rotation angle relative to the rotation axis (e.g., a rotation angle of approximately 50 to 60 degrees relative to the rotation axis).

[0190] According to an embodiment, in order to move the cover device 190 from the closed position to the open position, the user or operator must grasp the recessed grip 245 with his / her fingers and simultaneously apply a pulling force (i.e., a force substantially orthogonal to the sliding axis L) and a sliding force in the rearward direction L2 (hereinafter referred to as the rearward sliding force). Figure 1CIn the example shown in FIG (where the cover device 190 moves from the closed position to the open position when the door 125 is in the closed position), the rearward sliding force is a downward force. As will be appreciated, the pulling force causes the plate 205 to flex and thus causes the engaging teeth 215 to disengage from the bottom of the lower reach aperture 1401, and the rearward sliding force causes the cover device 190 to move in the rearward direction L2 along the guide aperture 1401. 1G , 140 2G Slide (until the engagement teeth 215 engage the engagement holes 140 1E ).

[0191] refer to Figures 3A to 3C , which show a dishwasher 300 according to an embodiment of the invention in different operating positions.

[0192] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 300 is similar in structure to the dishwasher 100 , whereby the same or similar components are denoted by corresponding references and their explanation will not be repeated if deemed unnecessary.

[0193] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 300 comprises a base 305 for placing the dishwasher 300 on a supporting surface (not shown in the figures), for example parallel to the plane XZ, such as a supporting surface of a floor or a suitable niche of a piece of furniture in which the dishwasher 300 can be installed.

[0194] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 300 comprises a (eg parallelepiped-shaped) body or frame 310 .

[0195] According to an embodiment, the frame 310 defines a (eg hollow) treatment chamber 315 for items to be washed.

[0196] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 300 includes a pull-out rack (not shown in the drawings) within the treatment chamber 315 for inserting items to be washed into the treatment chamber 315 .

[0197] According to an embodiment, the frame 310 includes a top wall 310 parallel to the XZ plane. T and bottom wall 310 B , rear wall 310 parallel to the XY plane R , and two side walls 310 parallel to the YZ plane S1 、310 S2 .

[0198] According to an embodiment, the frame 310 defines a front loading opening 320 that is parallel to the XY plane and is aligned with the rear wall 310 along the transverse axis Z. R relatively.

[0199] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 300 includes a door assembly.

[0200] According to an embodiment, the door assembly includes a door 325 for selectively opening the front loading opening 320 and, thus, for selectively accessing the processing chamber 315 .

[0201] According to an embodiment, the door 325 is movable (eg, rotatable) between a closed position and an open position.

[0202] The door 325 is exemplarily shown as Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the closed position and Figure 3C is in the open position.

[0203] According to an embodiment, the door 325 includes an outer door panel 325 O and inner door panel 325 I , which are similar in structure and function to the outer door panels 125 O and inner door panel 125 I .

[0204] According to an embodiment, the door assembly includes a door hinge 325 for rotatably coupling the door 325 to the base 305. H , so that the door 325 can rotate relative to the frame 310 about a horizontal rotation axis (elevated from the floor) parallel to the longitudinal axis X. According to an embodiment, the door 325 can be moved from the closed position to the open position by pulling down, and from the open position to the closed position by pulling up. According to an embodiment, the door hinge 325 H (not shown in these figures) similar to the door hinge 125 H .

[0205] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 300 is a fully integrated dishwasher or a semi-integrated dishwasher, whereby, when the dishwasher is installed, the door 325 can be coupled to the decorative front panel 330 so as to be completely or almost completely covered by it. According to an embodiment, the decorative front panel 330 (which is not part of the dishwasher 300) has the same appearance as other pieces of furniture, or at least coordinates with other pieces of furniture, and the decorative front panel 330 is made of wood, for example. Figure 3A and Figure 3C A dishwasher 300 is shown having a decorative front panel 330, and Figure 3B The dishwasher 300 is shown without the decorative front panel 330 .

[0206] According to an embodiment, the door hinge 325 H A fastening system is included for fastening the decorative front panel 330 to the door 325 and for adjusting the vertical position of the decorative front panel 330 relative to the door 325. According to an embodiment, the fastening system (not shown in these figures) is similar to Figures 1F to 1H The fastening system shown in .

[0207] For purposes of this disclosure, a fastening system includes an actuatable or adjustable member, such as an adjustment screw 335 (eg, made of a metallic or other rigid material) adapted to be tightened / loosened or rotated by a user or operator.

[0208] According to an embodiment, door 325 includes one or more access apertures for allowing a user or operator to access and actuate (eg, by inserting a screwdriver or wrench) adjustment screw 335 .

[0209] According to an embodiment, the access aperture(s) are provided on the outer door panel 325 O The door 325 may be positioned at a location such as a lower end region of a side thereof that is visible to a user when the door 325 is not in the closed position.

[0210] According to an embodiment, the outer door panel 325 O Two access apertures 3401, 3402 are included. According to an embodiment, the access apertures 3401, 3402 are aligned with each other along a vertical axis Y so as to define a lower access aperture 3401 and an upper access aperture 3402 (taking the orientation of use of the dishwasher 300 as a reference).

[0211] In accordance with an embodiment, each access opening 3401, 3402 is designed (i.e., shaped and sized) to allow a user to access and actuate the adjustment screw 335 in a corresponding position of the door 325 (as previously discussed, the adjustment screw 335 moves in response to door movement, whereby the adjustment screw 335 can be accessed through the lower access opening 3401 or through the upper access opening 3402, depending on the position of the door 325).

[0212] According to an embodiment, each access aperture 3401 , 3402 is circular (or substantially circular) in shape and is large enough to allow a user or operator to access and actuate (eg, by inserting a screwdriver or wrench) the adjustment screw 335 .

[0213] According to an embodiment, the door 325 is, for example, provided on the outer door panel 325 O According to an embodiment, the door 325 includes two guide apertures 340. 1G , 340 2G (exist Figure 3B and Figure 4B According to an embodiment, the guide aperture 340 1G , 340 2G are aligned with each other along the vertical axis Y. According to an embodiment, each guide aperture 340 1G , 340 2G Extending and aligned along the vertical axis Y (they will also be referred to as lower guide apertures 3401G and the reason for the upper contact opening 3402), each guide opening 340 1G , 340 2G According to the embodiment, the guide hole 340 1G , 340 2G Corresponding to the elongated slots, in some conventional dishwashers, these elongated slots are provided on the outer door panel 325 O on the front wall for assembling and adjusting the decorative front panel (according to an embodiment, such an elongated slot is also provided in the dishwasher 100, but is not discussed here because it is not understood Figures 1A to 2B irrelevant to the embodiment of the invention).

[0214] According to an embodiment, the guide aperture 340 1G , 340 2G Designed to guide the movement / sliding of the cover device during the movement / sliding of the decorative front panel 330 relative to the door 325 (so as to cover the access openings 3401, 3402, as better discussed below). As better discussed below, the guide opening 340 1G , 340 2G Allowing the cover device to be guided between the open position and the closed position.

[0215] According to an embodiment, the door hinge 325 H A sliding system is included for allowing the decorative front panel 330 to slide relative to the door 325 during door movement. According to an embodiment, the sliding system (not shown in these figures) is similar to Figures 1F to 1H , the sliding system is configured to slide in a forward direction L1 along the sliding axis L when the door 325 moves from the closed position to the open position, and to slide in a rearward direction L2 when the door 325 moves from the open position to the closed position.

[0216] As discussed previously, the sliding system can be coupled to the decorative front panel 330 such that, when coupled to the decorative front panel 330, sliding of the sliding system during door movement causes the decorative front panel 330 to slide relative to the door 325 along the sliding axis L, thereby avoiding interference of the decorative front panel 330 with any furniture skirting board (not shown).

[0217] As previously discussed, the fastening system is mechanically coupled to the sliding system so as to slide integrally therewith during door movement, and the adjustment screw 335 is therefore movable along the sliding axis L as the sliding system (and thus the door) slides.

[0218] The dishwasher 300 includes a cover device 390 (at Figure 3B3402 of the door 325).

[0219] Similar to the lid arrangement 190 , the lid arrangement 390 is configured to mechanically cooperate / interact with the sliding system so as to automatically move from the open position to the closed position in response to sliding of the sliding system.

[0220] According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 is mounted on the door 325 .

[0221] According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 is mounted to the door 325 from the inside. According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 is mounted to the outer door panel 325 from the inside. O .

[0222] According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 is mounted on the outer door panel 325. O On the inner face of the side walls and outer door panels 325 O On the inner side of the front wall (outer door panel 325 O The outer and inner sides of the anterior wall are respectively Figure 3B and Figure 4B (see in the ).

[0223] Also refer to Figure 4A , which shows a perspective front view (upper left) and a perspective rear view (upper right) of a cover device 390 according to an embodiment of the present invention. For ease of description, Figure 4A will with Figure 4B Joint discussion, Figure 4B The outer door panel 325 of the dishwasher 300 is shown mounted on the outer door panel 325 of the dishwasher 300. O The cover device 390 is provided on the upper surface.

[0224] According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 is made of a material exhibiting elastic properties, enabling the cover device 390 to be (slightly) temporarily deformed during its sliding (as better discussed below).According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 is made of a plastic material.

[0225] According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 includes a plate 405 P (e.g., rectangular in shape), the plate is configured to rest on the outer door panel 325 O On the inner surface of the side wall.

[0226] According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 is for example on the plate 405 PThe cover device 390 includes one or more access holes for allowing a user or operator to access the access opening(s). P The cover device 390 includes two access holes for allowing a user or operator to access the access apertures 3401 , 3402. According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 includes a lower access hole 4101 associated with the lower access aperture 3401 and an upper access hole 4102 associated with the upper access aperture 3402.

[0227] According to an embodiment, the access holes 4101, 4102 are designed (i.e., their shape and size are determined) so that when the cover device 390 is mounted on the door 325 in the open position, the access holes 4101, 4102 do not cover the access openings 3401, 340, respectively (so as to allow a user or operator to access the adjustment screw 335 through the access holes 4101, 4102 of the cover device 390 and the access openings 3401, 3402 of the door 325).

[0228] According to an embodiment, the shape of the access holes 4101 , 4102 is substantially circular, for example in order to match the shape of the access openings 3401 , 3402 .

[0229] According to an embodiment, the cover assembly 390 includes an engagement member, such as an engagement protrusion 415. According to an embodiment, the engagement protrusion 415 is configured to engage a corresponding engagement area or portion of the door 325 in the open position and the closed position of the cover assembly 390. As better discussed below, according to an embodiment, the engagement protrusion 415 is configured to frictionally engage the outer door panel 325 when the cover assembly 390 is in the open position. O , and an inner surface of the cover device 390, and an edge of the upper access opening 3402 that frictionally engages the upper access opening 3402 when the cover device 390 is in the closed position (the upper access opening 3402 (e.g., the edge of the upper access opening 3402) thus acts as an engagement area or portion for engaging the protrusion 415 in the closed position of the cover device 390).

[0230] According to an embodiment, the engagement protrusion 415 is arranged below the upper access hole 4102 along the vertical axis Y (considering the use orientation of the cover device 390, ie when it is mounted on the door 325). O The inner surface of the side wall is in the area between the lower touch hole 3401 and the upper touch hole 3402 (in Figure 4B In the figure, 340 1E Indication) thus acts as an engagement area or portion for the engagement projection 415 in the open position of the cover device 390. According to an embodiment, the engagement projection 415 is formed from its front surface 405 PF Orthogonal to plate 405 P protrusion, the front surface of which faces the outer door panel 325 in use OThe inner surface of the side wall, the front surface 405 PF With rear surface 405 PR relatively.

[0231] According to an embodiment, the engagement protrusion 415 has a circular (or substantially circular) or semicircular (or substantially semicircular) shape so as to substantially match the edge of the upper access aperture 3402 when the cover device 390 is in the closed position.

[0232] According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 includes a cover for interfacing between the cover device 390 and the door 325 (eg, between the cover device 390 and the outer door panel 325). O One or more friction members providing friction coupling between.

[0233] According to an embodiment, the friction member(s) include a P Two sliding brackets 4201 and 4202 (hereinafter also referred to as the left sliding bracket 4201 and the right sliding bracket 4202) at the corresponding sides.

[0234] According to an embodiment, the right sliding bracket 4201 is designed (ie, its shape and size are determined) to be coupled and held to the outer door panel 325 by friction. O (exist Figure 4B The inwardly rounded profile 325 of the side wall (visible in FIG) OS As will be understood from the following discussion, the inwardly rounded profile 325 OS It also serves as a guide member for guiding the cover device 390 therein or along the same.

[0235] According to an embodiment, the sliding bracket 4202 is designed (ie, shaped and sized) to be positioned on the outer door panel 325. O (See Figure 4B ) abuts and slides on the inner surface of the front wall by friction.

[0236] According to an embodiment, each sliding bracket 4201, 4202 is formed from the plate 405 P The corresponding side is substantially orthogonal to the plate 405 P Extend so that the sliding brackets 4201, 4202 and the plate 405 P A substantially C-shaped profile is defined.

[0237] According to the embodiment, the sliding brackets 4201, 4202 and the plate 405 P Formed as a single piece.

[0238] Although the sliding brackets 4201 , 4202 may be omitted in a basic embodiment, the sliding brackets 4201 , 4202 may advantageously provide a backup coupling function between the cover arrangement 390 and the door 325 (eg, in the event that the engagement protrusion 415 is broken or damaged).

[0239] According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 includes one or more reinforcement members for reinforcing the coupling between the cover device 390 and the door 325 .

[0240] According to an embodiment, the reinforcement member is configured to cooperate with a front wall of the outer door panel front wall.

[0241] According to an embodiment, the reinforcing member is configured to be aligned with the guide aperture 340 1G , 340 2G cooperation.

[0242] According to an embodiment, the reinforcement member(s) include a suspension member 405 H , the hanging member is from plate 405 P (particularly from the left sliding bracket 4201) and is configured to couple to the guide apertures 3401, 3402 (or at least one thereof). According to an embodiment, the overhanging member 405 H Protruding from the left sliding bracket 4201, the hanging member 405 H For example, it is made into a single piece with the left sliding bracket 4201.

[0243] According to an embodiment, the reinforcement member(s) are, for example, in the overhanging member 405 H The upper portion includes a reinforcing pin 425 U (hereinafter referred to as upper reinforcing pin). According to the embodiment, the upper reinforcing pin 425 U From the hanging member 405 H The upper portion extends from, for example substantially perpendicular to, the upper portion.

[0244] According to the embodiment, the upper reinforcing pin 425 U is designed (i.e., shaped and sized) to be in the open position (e.g., Figure 4B ) when it contacts the bottom of the orifice 3402.

[0245] Although the upper reinforcing pin 425 may be omitted in the basic embodiment U , but the upper reinforcement pin 425 U A backup coupling function between the cover arrangement 390 and the door 325 (in the event of a breakage or damage to the lower reinforcement pin) may advantageously be provided in the open position of the cover arrangement 390 (discussed herein below).

[0246] According to an embodiment, the reinforcement member(s) are located on the overhanging member 405.H The lower portion includes a reinforcement pin 425 L (hereinafter referred to as the lower reinforcing pin). According to the embodiment, the lower reinforcing pin 425 L From the hanging member 405 H The lower portion extends from, for example substantially orthogonal to, the lower portion.

[0247] According to the embodiment, the lower reinforcing pin 425 L is designed (i.e., shaped and sized) to be in the open position (e.g., Figure 4B (As can be seen in the figure) it abuts against the bottom of the orifice 3401.

[0248] Although the reinforcing pin 425 can be omitted in the basic embodiment L , but the lower reinforcement pin 425 L Advantageously, a backup coupling function between the cover device 390 and the door 325 can be provided in the open position of the cover device 390 (on the upper reinforcement pin 425). U in the event of breakage or damage).

[0249] According to an embodiment, the suspension member 405 H is configured relative to the stationary state (at Figure 4A According to an embodiment, the suspension member 405 H is configured to elastically deform relative to a resting state to allow snap-fitting of the cover assembly 390 to the door 325. According to an embodiment, as better discussed below, the overhanging member 405 H The upper portion of the 405 is configured to be elastically deformed relative to the static state so as to allow the overhanging member 405 to H The upper portion passes through the lower access hole 3401 and is H The applied elastic force tends to elastically return to its rest position and stably adhere to the outer door panel 325 O (See Figure 3B and Figure 4B ) on the outside of the front side.

[0250] According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 includes an end-of-stroke member for stopping the sliding movement of the cover device 390 when the cover device 390 has reached the closed position.

[0251] According to an embodiment, the end-of-stroke member includes an end-of-stroke tooth 430. According to an embodiment, the end-of-stroke tooth 430 is disposed on the overhanging member 405. H At the bottom of the upper portion, the end travel tooth 430 is substantially orthogonal to the overhanging member 405 HThe end-of-travel tooth 430 extends, for example, along the transverse direction Z. According to an embodiment, the end-of-travel tooth 430 is designed (ie, shaped and sized) to abut the top of the lower reach aperture 3401 when the cover device 390 is in the closed position.

[0252] Although the end-of-travel tooth 430 may be omitted in basic embodiments, the end-of-travel tooth 430 advantageously prevents the lid assembly 390 from sliding (in the forward direction L1 ) beyond the closed position, which may otherwise make it difficult to move the lid assembly 390 from the closed position back to the open position.

[0253] According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 includes a retaining member 440 for retaining the adjustment screw 335 when moving the door 325 from the closed position to the open position.

[0254] According to an embodiment, the retaining member 440 is P The rear surface 405 PR According to an embodiment, the retaining member 440 extends from the plate 405 P The rear surface 405 PR The retaining member 440 extends to such an extent that it interferes with the adjusting screw 335 during its sliding movement. According to an embodiment, when the door 325 is moved from the closed position to the open position, the sliding movement of the adjusting screw 335 (which slides integrally with the sliding member) exerts a forward sliding force (along the sliding axis L, in the forward direction L1) on the retaining member 440, which causes the cover device 390 to move from the open position to the closed position (as mentioned above, the forward sliding force causes the engaging protrusion 415 to slide along the outer door panel 325). O Slides against the inner surface of the side wall (thereby disengaging from the inner surface) and engages the upper access opening 3402).

[0255] According to an embodiment, the cover arrangement 390 includes one or more gripping members for allowing a user or operator to manually move the cover arrangement 390 from the closed position to the open position.

[0256] According to an embodiment, the gripping member(s) are provided on the engagement protrusion 415 so as to be accessible to a user or operator through the upper access opening 3402 when the lid device 390 is in the closed position. According to an embodiment, the gripping member(s) comprise a release portion of the engagement protrusion 415. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, the release portion of the engagement protrusion 415, which advantageously serves as the gripping member, has the shape of an arrow (which advantageously guides during rearward sliding).

[0257] The operation of the cover device 390 can be summarized as follows.

[0258] When the cover device 390 is in the open position ( Figure 4B ) is mounted on the door 125, the access holes 4101, 4102 do not cover the access holes 3401, 3402, and the engagement protrusion 415 frictionally engages the outer door panel 325 O The inner surface of the side wall is at the junction area 340 between the lower contact hole 3401 and the upper contact hole 3402 1E The left sliding bracket 4201 is connected and held by the outer door panel 325 by friction. O The inwardly rounded profile of the side wall 325 OS Inside, the right sliding bracket 4202 abuts against the outer door panel 325 O On the inner surface of the front wall, the hanging member 405 H The upper portion is snap-fitted and adhered to the outer door panel 325 O (See also Figure 3B ) on the outside of the front side, the upper reinforcement pin 425 U The end travel tooth 430 abuts against the bottom of the upper contact hole 3402 and is located at the upper guide hole 340. 2G Inside, and lower reinforcement pin 425 L Abut against the bottom of the reaching hole 3401.

[0259] Similar to the lid arrangement 190 , movement of the door 325 from the closed position to the open position causes the sliding system (and therefore the adjustment screw 335 ) to slide in the forward direction L1 along the sliding axis L. When the door 325 is in the retaining position, the adjustment screw 335 is retained (when sliding) by a retaining member 340 (not shown).

[0260] Similar to the cover device 190, subsequent movement of the door 325 from the retaining position to the open position determines the external force to be applied to the retaining member 340 along the sliding axis L (in the forward direction L1), which allows the cover device 190 to slide through the guide aperture 340. 1G , 340 2G .

[0261] When the door 325 is in the open position, the end-of-travel tooth 430 abuts the top of the upper access aperture 3402 and the plate 305 P (ie its solid part) covers the access openings 3401, 3402. This corresponds to the closed position of the cover device 390.

[0262] Thus, according to an embodiment, the cover device 390 is configured to automatically move from the open position to the closed position in response to an initial movement of the door 325 from the closed position to the open position (the initial movement of the door is, for example but not necessarily, the first door movement performed after the decorative front panel 330 is installed).

[0263] Automatic movement of the cover device from the open position to the closed position allows avoiding reliance on a user or operator to cover the access aperture.

[0264] In the closed position of the cover device 390, the cover device 390 is prevented from moving back to the open position by the engagement protrusion 415 mounted within the upper access aperture 3402 and by the frictional coupling provided by the sliding brackets 4201 and 4202. Furthermore, the movement of the door 325 from the open position to the closed position (which determines the movement of the adjustment screw 335 in the rearward direction L2 along the sliding axis L) does not affect the cover device 390 (in fact, when moving in the rearward direction L2, the adjustment screw 335 moves away from the retaining member 440), thereby stably assuming the closed position for any subsequent door movement unless the user or operator needs to move it to the open position to access the door adjustment screw 335 (as discussed herein below). Therefore, due to the engagement between the engagement protrusion 415 and the upper access aperture 3402 (and preferably due to the frictional coupling provided by the sliding brackets 4201 and 4202), the cover device 390 is maintained in the closed position during each door movement after the initial door movement.

[0265] According to an embodiment, the cover assembly 390 is configured to be manually moved from a closed position to an open position (eg, for adjusting the vertical position of the decorative front panel 330 on the door 325 and / or for removing the decorative front panel 330 from the door 325 ).

[0266] According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 is configured to be manually moved from the closed position to the open position when the door is between the closed position and the partially open position along the sliding axis L. According to an embodiment, the partially open position corresponds to a distance greater than a predetermined distance, and in particular corresponds to a distance (along the sliding axis L) between the retaining member 440 and the adjustment screw 335 such that sliding of the cover device 390 (and thus the retaining member 440) in the rearward direction L2 is not impeded by the adjustment screw 335. According to an embodiment, the partially open position of the door 325 (at which the cover device 390 can be moved from the closed position to the open position) corresponds to a rotation angle of the door 325 of approximately 30 to 40 degrees relative to the vertical axis Y. In other words, according to an embodiment, the cover device 390 is configured to be manually moved from the closed position to the open position when the door is rotated at least a predetermined rotation angle relative to the rotation axis (e.g., a rotation angle of approximately 50 to 60 degrees relative to the rotation axis).

[0267] According to an embodiment, in order to move the cover device 390 from the closed position to the open position, the user or operator must reach the gripping member with his / her finger on the engagement protrusion 415 (e.g., the release portion of the engagement protrusion) and apply a pushing force (i.e., a force substantially orthogonal to the sliding axis L, which is the same as the force of the slide axis L). Figures 1A to 2BThe backward sliding force is a downward force when the door 325 is in the closed position. As will be appreciated, the thrust determines the direction of movement of the plate 305. P The bending thus determines that the engaging protrusion 415 is disengaged from the upper access hole 3402, and the backward sliding force determines that the cover device 390 moves along the guide hole 340 in the backward direction L2. 1G , 340 2G Slide (until the upper reinforcement pin 425 U Abuts against the upper guide hole 340 2G The bottom and lower reinforcement pin 425 L Abutting against the lower guide hole 340 1G on the bottom of the ).

[0268] Figure 4C A perspective front view (upper left) and a perspective rear view (upper right) of a variant of a cover device 390 according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown, the variant of the cover device 390 being designated by reference 390'. Figure 4C will with Figure 4D Joint discussion, Figure 4D The outer door panel 325 of the dishwasher 300 is shown mounted on the outer door panel 325 of the dishwasher O The cover device 390' on the variant (the outer door panel 325 of the dishwasher 300) O A variant of reference 325 O 'express).

[0269] Cover device 390' is very similar to cover device 390, ie, it comprises: plate 405 P , which has a front surface 405 PF and rear surface 405 PR and is configured to rest (with its front surface 405 PF ) on the outer door panel 325 O 'On the inner surface of the side wall; lower access hole 4101 and upper access hole 4102; engagement protrusion 415, which is configured to frictionally engage the outer door panel 325 when the cover device 390 'is in the open position O 'The inner surface of the side wall of the bonding area 340 1E , and frictionally engages an edge of the upper access opening 3402 when the cover device 390' is in the closed position; a retaining member 440 for retaining the adjustment screw 335 when moving the door from the closed position to the open position; and a left sliding bracket 4201 and a right sliding bracket 4202.

[0270] Unlike the cover device 390, no overhanging member is provided in the cover device 390'. In fact, according to an embodiment, the cover device 390' is configured to be coupled and retained at both the left sliding bracket 4201 and the right sliding bracket 4202. To achieve this, according to an embodiment, in addition to the inwardly rounded profile 325 OS In addition, the outer door panel 325 O 'Also includes cantilevered panels 325 OS ', the cantilevered plate is arranged in the transverse direction Z relative to the inwardly rounded profile 325 OS As will be understood from the following discussion, the cantilevered plate 325 OS ' also serves as a guide member for guiding the cover device 390' therein or along the same.

[0271] According to an embodiment, the left sliding bracket 4201 is connected and held (and slides by friction) on the inwardly rounded profile 325 OS inside (as for a cover), and the right sliding bracket 4202 is coupled and held (and slides by friction) on the cantilevered plate 325 OS 'With outer door panel 325 O 'The inner surface of the side wall is between the parts below it.

[0272] According to an embodiment, the cover device 390 ′ includes one or more end-of-stroke members for stopping the sliding movement of the cover device 390 ′ when the cover device 390 ′ has reached the closed position and / or the open position.

[0273] According to an embodiment, the end-stroke member(s) include two end-stroke members 4301, 4302, which are disposed at respective ends of the right sliding bracket 4202 along the vertical direction Y (for which they will also be referred to as the lower end-stroke member 4301 and the upper end-stroke member 4302). According to an embodiment, each end-stroke member 4301, 4302 extends orthogonally from the right sliding bracket 4202 (i.e., each end-stroke member 4301, 4302 extends from the right sliding bracket 4202 along the longitudinal direction X).

[0274] According to an embodiment, the end-stroke members 4301, 4302 and the cantilevered plate 325 OS 'is designed (ie, is shaped and sized) so that the cantilevered plate 325 OS 'When the cover device 390' is in the open position (eg Figure 4D 43. The upper end-stroke member 4302 abuts against the upper end-stroke member 4302 when the lid arrangement 390' is in the closed position and the lower end-stroke member 4301 abuts against the lower end-stroke member 4301 when the lid arrangement 390' is in the closed position.

[0275] The operation of cover device 390' is very similar to that of cover device 390 and can be summarized as follows.

[0276] When the cover device 390' is in the open position ( Figure 4D ) is mounted on the door 325, the access holes 4101, 4102 do not cover the access holes 3401, 3402, and the engagement protrusion 415 frictionally engages the outer door panel 325 O The inner surface of the side wall is at the junction area 340 between the lower contact hole 3401 and the upper contact hole 3402 1E , the left sliding bracket 4201 is connected and held in the outer door panel 325 O The inwardly rounded profile of the side wall 325 OS Inside, the right sliding bracket 4202 is connected and held on the cantilever plate 325 OS 'With outer door panel 325 O 'between the area below it and the cantilevered plate 325 OS 'Abutment against upper end stroke component 4302.

[0277] Similar to the cover device 390, movement of the door 325 from the closed position to the open position causes the sliding system (and therefore the adjustment screw 335) to slide in the forward direction L1 along the sliding axis L. When the door 325 is in the retaining position, the adjustment screw 335 is retained (when sliding) by the retaining member 440 (not shown).

[0278] Similar to the cover device 390 , subsequent movement of the door 325 from the retaining position to the open position determines a forward sliding force to be applied to the retaining member 340 along the sliding axis L (in the forward direction L1 ), which allows the cover device 390 ′ to slide.

[0279] When the door 325 is in the open position, the cantilevered panel 325 OS 'Abutting the lower end stroke member 4301, and the plate 305 P (ie its solid part) covers the access openings 3401, 3402. This corresponds to the closed position of the cover device 390'.

[0280] Similar to the cover device 390, according to an embodiment, the cover device 390' is configured to apply a thrust on the engagement protrusion 415 (the thrust determines the plate 305 P bending and thus determining the engagement protrusion 415 to be disengaged from the upper access aperture 3402) and applying a backward sliding force in the rearward direction L2 (the backward sliding force determining the cover device 390' to slide until the cantilever plate 325 OS 'Return abutment on the end stroke member 4302) and manually move from the closed position to the open position.

[0281] refer to Figures 5A to 5C , which show perspective side views of a dishwasher 500 according to an embodiment of the invention in different operating positions. Figures 5A to 5C Each of the figures also shows a cross-sectional view of the dishwasher 500 along the VV cross-sectional axis, each cross-sectional view showing the corresponding interaction between the lid device and the hinge of the dishwasher 500. For ease of description, Figures 5A to 5C will with Figure 5D Joint discussion, Figure 5D A rear view (upper left side) and a side view (upper right side) of a portion of a dishwasher 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0282] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 500 is similar in structure to the dishwashers 100 and 300 , whereby the same or similar components are denoted by corresponding references and their explanation will not be repeated if deemed unnecessary.

[0283] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 500 comprises a base 505 for placing the dishwasher 500 on a support surface (not shown in the figures), for example parallel to the plane XZ, such as a support surface of a floor or a suitable niche of a piece of furniture in which the dishwasher 500 can be installed.

[0284] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 500 comprises a (eg parallelepiped-shaped) body or frame 510 .

[0285] According to an embodiment, the frame 510 defines a (eg hollow) treatment chamber 515 for items to be washed.

[0286] According to an embodiment, the frame 510 includes a top wall 510 parallel to the XZ plane. T and bottom wall 510 B , rear wall 510 parallel to the XY plane R , and two side walls 510 parallel to the YZ plane S1 , 510 S2 .

[0287] According to an embodiment, the frame 510 defines a front loading opening 520 that is parallel to the XY plane and is aligned with the rear wall 510 along the transverse axis Z. R relatively.

[0288] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 500 includes a door assembly.

[0289] According to an embodiment, the door assembly includes a door 525 for selectively opening the front loading opening 520 and, thus, for selectively accessing the processing chamber 515 .

[0290] According to an embodiment, the door 525 is movable (eg, rotatable) between a closed position and an open position.

[0291] The door 525 is exemplarily shown as Figure 5A In the closed position, Figure 5B is in a partially open position and Figure 5C is in the open position.

[0292] According to an embodiment, the door 525 includes an outer door panel 525 O and inner door panel 525 I , which are similar in structure and function to the outer door panels 125 O , 325 O and inner door panel 125 I , 325 I .

[0293] According to an embodiment, the door assembly includes a door hinge 525 for rotatably coupling the door 525 to the base 505. H , so that the door 525 can rotate relative to the frame 510 about a horizontal rotation axis (elevated from the floor) parallel to the longitudinal axis X. According to an embodiment, the door 525 can be moved from the closed position to the open position by a downward movement, and from the open position to the closed position by an upward movement.

[0294] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 500 is a fully integrated dishwasher or a semi-integrated dishwasher, whereby the door 525 can be coupled to the decorative front panel 530 so as to be completely or almost completely covered thereby when the dishwasher is installed.

[0295] According to an embodiment, the door assembly includes a fastening system for fastening the decorative front panel 530 to the door 525 and for adjusting the vertical position of the decorative front panel 530 relative to the door 525. According to an embodiment, the fastening system (not shown in these figures) is similar to Figures 1F to 1H The fastening system shown in (as better discussed below).

[0296] For purposes of the present disclosure, a fastening system includes an actuatable or adjustable member, such as an adjustment screw 535 (eg, made of a metallic or other rigid material) adapted to be tightened / loosened or rotated by a user or operator.

[0297] According to an embodiment, the door 525 includes one or more access apertures for allowing a user or operator to access and actuate (eg, by inserting a screwdriver or wrench) the adjustment screw 535 .

[0298] According to an embodiment, the access aperture(s) are provided on the outer door panel 525 O At a location, for example at a lower end area of ​​a side thereof, which is visible to a user when the door 525 is not in the closed position.

[0299] According to an embodiment, the outer door panel 325 O A single access aperture 540 is included.

[0300] In accordance with an embodiment, the access opening 540 is designed (i.e., shaped and sized) to allow a user to access and actuate the adjustment screw 535 in a predetermined position of the door 525 (as previously discussed, the adjustment screw 535 moves in response to door movement, whereby the adjustment screw 535 can be accessed through the access opening 540 when the door 525 is in the predetermined position).

[0301] According to an embodiment, the door assembly includes a sliding system for allowing the decorative front panel 530 to slide relative to the door 525 during door movement. According to an embodiment, the sliding system is configured to slide along the sliding axis L in a forward direction L1 when the door 525 moves from the closed position to the open position, and to slide in a rearward direction L2 when the door 525 moves from the open position to the closed position.

[0302] As discussed previously, the sliding system can be coupled to the decorative front panel 530 such that, when coupled to the decorative front panel 530, sliding of the sliding system during door movement causes the decorative front panel 530 to slide relative to the door 525 along the sliding axis L, thereby avoiding interference of the decorative front panel 530 with any furniture skirting board (not shown).

[0303] As previously discussed, the fastening system is mechanically coupled to the sliding system so as to slide integrally therewith during movement of the door, and the adjustment screw 535 is therefore movable along the sliding axis L as the sliding system (and thus the door) slides.

[0304] The sliding system is structurally different from Figures 1F to 1H ) (because, as better discussed below, in this embodiment the cover device is configured to be mounted directly on the sliding system).

[0305] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 500 includes a cover device 590, which can be mounted on the door assembly and is configured to adopt an open position (in which the cover device 590 leaves the access opening 540 of the door 525 uncovered) and a closed position (in which the cover device 590 at least partially, preferably completely, covers the access opening 540 of the door 525) when mounted on the door assembly.

[0306] Similar to lid arrangements 190 , 390 , and 390 ′, lid arrangement 590 is configured to mechanically cooperate / interact with the sliding system to automatically move from an open position to a closed position in response to sliding of the sliding system.

[0307] According to an embodiment, the cover device 590 is mounted on a sliding system, whereby the cover device 590 is configured to move from the open position to the closed position when the door 525 moves from the closed position to the open position, and from the closed position to the open position when the door 525 moves from the open position back to the closed position.

[0308] Also refer to Figures 5E to 5G , which show a door hinge 525 in different operating positions according to an embodiment of the present invention. H ( Figures 5E to 5G The door hinge 525 shown in H The operating positions correspond, for example, to the Figures 5A to 5C ). In particular, Figures 5E to 5G Each of the two diagrams shows a door hinge 525 in a corresponding operating position from an opposite side. H .

[0309] Similar to door hinge 125 H , according to an embodiment, the door hinge 525 H Includes: support bracket 545, which is used to hinge the door 525 H connected to the frame 510; a driving mechanism 550; a door balancing device 555; a coupling mechanism 560 for coupling the driving mechanism 550 and the balancing device 555 to each other; a rotating bracket 565 for coupling the door 525 and the door hinge 525 H fulcrum pin 570, which is used to rotatably connect the rotating bracket 565 to the support bracket 545; and the elongated guide structure 565 G , which is arranged in the rotating bracket 565.

[0310] According to an embodiment, the door hinge 525 H Including similar Figures 1F to 1H The fastening system of the fastening system, that is, it includes: an adjustment screw 535; a fastening bracket 575 (at Figure 5D ), which has mutually orthogonal longitudinal plates 5751 and transverse plates 5752; and adjustment slot holes (not visible in these figures), which are provided in the fastening bracket 575 (in particular, in the transverse plate 5752).

[0311] According to an embodiment, the door hinge 525 H Includes sliding system.

[0312] According to an embodiment, the sliding system includes a sliding member 580 that slides along the elongated guide structure 565 of the rotating bracket 565. G Slidably guided (similar to Figures 1F to 1HAccording to an embodiment, the sliding member 580 is configured to be secured to a cover arrangement 590 (as better discussed below).

[0313] Similar to Figures 1F to 1H The sliding system, according to an embodiment, the door hinge 525 H The sliding system includes a crank mechanism 585 connected between the drive mechanism 550 and the sliding member 580 (so as to convert the rocking movement of the drive mechanism 550 into the translation of the sliding member 580).

[0314] Similar to Figures 1F to 1H According to an embodiment, the crank mechanism 585 includes a transmission arm 5851 which is coupled to the rocker arm of the drive mechanism 550 at a first end and to the sliding member 580 at a second end by means of a pin.

[0315] Now refer to Figure 6 , which shows a cover device 590 and a sliding member 580 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0316] According to an embodiment, the cover device 590 includes a plate 605 (e.g., elliptical in shape). According to an embodiment, the plate 605 includes: a front surface 605 F , which in use faces the outer door panel 525 O and the inner surface of the side wall; and the rear surface 605 R (with front surface 605 F Relative), which slides on the surface of the member 580 during use.

[0317] According to an embodiment, the cover device 590 includes one or more access holes, e.g., on the plate 605, for allowing a user or operator to access the adjustment screw 535. According to an embodiment, the cover device 590 includes a single access hole 610 (e.g., circular in shape) on the plate 605, for allowing a user or operator to access the adjustment screw 535 through the access aperture 540 (i.e., when the access hole 610 (in which the adjustment screw 535 is installed) and the access aperture 540 are aligned with each other, as discussed below).

[0318] According to an embodiment, the cover device 590 is configured to be mounted on the sliding member 580. According to an embodiment, the cover device 590 is configured to be snap-fitted on the sliding member 580. According to an embodiment, the cover device 590 includes an engagement area 615 configured to engage a corresponding engagement member of the sliding member 580.

[0319] According to an embodiment, the engagement region 615 is disposed below the access hole 610 along the vertical axis Y. According to an embodiment, the engagement region 615 comprises a groove having a semicircular (or substantially semicircular) shape.

[0320] According to an embodiment, the joining area 615 is provided in a spacing member 620 of the cover device 590, which is spaced apart from the rear surface 605 of the plate 605. R According to an embodiment, the joining area 615 extends or protrudes perpendicular to the rear surface. F According to an embodiment, the joining region 615 does not reach (ie, it does not open toward) the front surface 605 of the plate 605. F , whereby the front surface 605 of the plate 605 F (This front surface provides the closing or covering function of the cover device 590) and is mainly solid (except for the access hole 610).

[0321] According to an embodiment, the spacing member 620 protrudes (along the longitudinal direction X) to such an extent as to allow the cover device 590 to be snap-fitted onto the sliding member 580 with the interposition of the fastening bracket 575 and the rotating bracket 565 (as better discussed herein below).

[0322] According to an embodiment, the sliding member 580 includes a threaded hole 625 adapted to receive the adjustment screw 535. According to an embodiment, when the cover device 590 is mounted (e.g., snap-fitted) on the sliding member 580, the threaded hole 625 of the sliding member 580 is aligned with the access hole 610 of the cover device 590, whereby the adjustment screw 535 can be inserted through the access hole 610 and the threaded hole 625.

[0323] like Figure 5D As can be seen in the figure, according to an embodiment, the fastening bracket 575 (particularly its transverse plate 5752) is fastened between the sliding member 580 and the cover device 590. According to an embodiment, when the cover device 590 is mounted (e.g., snap-fitted) on the sliding member 580 with the fastening bracket 575 (particularly its transverse plate 5752) placed therein, the threaded hole 625 of the sliding member 580 is aligned with the contact hole 610 of the cover device 590 and the adjustment slot hole 575 of the fastening bracket 575 (particularly its transverse plate 5752). H Alignment: Therefore, by inserting (and tightening) the adjustment screw 535 through the access hole 610, the adjustment slotted hole 575 H and threaded hole 625 , the fastening bracket 575 is held between the sliding member 580 and the cover device 590 .

[0324] like Figure 5DAs can be seen in the figure, according to an embodiment, the rotating bracket 565 is held between the sliding member 580 and the fastening plate 575 (particularly its transverse plate 5752). According to an embodiment, when the cover device 590 is mounted (e.g., snap-fitted) on the sliding member 580 with the fastening bracket 575 (particularly its transverse plate 5752) and the rotating bracket 565 placed therein, the threaded hole 625 of the sliding member 580 is aligned with the contact hole 610 of the cover device 590 and the adjustment slot hole 575 of the fastening bracket 575 (particularly its transverse plate 5752). H , and the elongated guide structure 565 of the rotating bracket 565 G Alignment: Therefore, by inserting (and tightening) the adjustment screw 535 through the access hole 610, the adjustment slotted hole 575 H , threaded hole 625 and elongated guide structure 565 G , allowing the fastening bracket 575 / sliding member 580 / cover assembly 590 to follow the elongated guide structure 565 G slide.

[0325] like Figure 5A and Figure 5E As can be seen in FIG. 5 , when the door 525 is in the closed position, the rotating bracket 565 extends along the vertical axis Y into contact with the support bracket 545, and the sliding member 580 (and the fastening bracket 575 and the cover device 590 coupled thereto) moves along the elongated guide structure 565. G The access opening 540 is covered by a cover device 590 .

[0326] like Figure 5B and Figure 5F As can be seen in FIG, when the door 525 is in the partially open position, the rotating bracket 565 (connected to the door 525) rotates relative to the support bracket 545 about the fulcrum pin 570 so as to move away from the support bracket 545 (connected to the frame 510, not shown in this figure). The corresponding rotation of the rocker arm of the drive mechanism 550 pushes the transmission arm 5851 away from the fulcrum pin 570 so as to cause the sliding member 580 (and the fastening bracket 575 and the cover device 590 coupled thereto) to move along the elongated guide structure 565. G As can be seen, in this position, the access hole 610 of the cover assembly 590 is aligned with the access aperture 540 of the door 525, whereby a user can access the adjustment screw 535 for adjusting the vertical position of the decorative front panel 530 on the door 525 and / or for removing the decorative front panel 530 from the door 525.

[0327] like Figure 5C and Figure 5GAs can be seen in FIG, the rotation of the rotating bracket 565 (and thus the opening of the door 525, not shown in this figure) stops when it reaches a maximum opening angle of approximately 85° to 90° (e.g., where the rotating bracket 565 abuts the bottom of the support bracket 545). According to an embodiment, in this position, the sliding member 580 (and the fastening bracket 575 and the cover device 590 coupled thereto) reaches the elongated guide structure 565. G The access opening 540 is covered by a cover device 590 .

[0328] Thus, the cover arrangement 590 is configured to automatically move from the open position to the closed position in response to each movement of the door 525 between the closed position and the open position.

[0329] Automatic movement of the cover assembly 590 each time the door is moved allows for avoiding reliance on a user or operator to uncover the access aperture 540 to access the adjustment screw 535 .

[0330] Furthermore, the cover device 590 is configured to be operable only at a single rotation angle of the door (in the example at issue, Figure 5B and Figure 5F The access opening 540 is not covered at a rotation angle of 0.5°, and the access opening 540 is instead covered or closed in any other door position.

[0331] As will be understood, although the cover device 590 allows access to the access opening 540 during movement of the door, this does not determine any injury problems: in fact, the sliding member 580 is spaced apart from the cover device 590 (by the fastening bracket) and, moreover, the sliding member 580 slides together with the cover device 590: the possibility of introducing a finger between the cover device 590 and the sliding member 580 is therefore avoided.

[0332] Naturally, in order to meet local and specific requirements, a person skilled in the art may apply many logical and / or physical modifications and changes to the invention described above. More specifically, although the present invention has been described with reference to its preferred embodiments with a certain degree of particularity, it should be understood that various omissions, substitutions and changes in form and detail and other embodiments are possible. In particular, different embodiments of the invention may be practiced even without the specific details set forth in the foregoing description to provide a more thorough understanding thereof; on the contrary, well-known features may have been omitted or simplified so as not to obstruct the description with unnecessary details. In addition, it is expressly intended that the specific elements and / or method steps described in conjunction with any disclosed embodiment of the present invention may be combined in any other embodiment.

Claims

1. A dishwasher (100; 300; 500), comprising: A frame (110; 310; 510) defining a treatment chamber (115; 315； 515)； A door assembly, the door assembly comprising: a door (125; 325; 525) movable between a closed position and an open position for selectively accessing the processing chamber, the door including an access aperture (1401, 1402; 3401, 3402; 540) for allowing a user to access an adjustment member (135; 335; 535) actuatable to adjust a position of a decorative front panel (130; 330; 530) relative to the door, a sliding member (180; 580) configured to slide along a sliding axis (L) during movement of the door, the sliding member being coupleable to the decorative front panel such that, when coupled to the decorative front panel, sliding of the sliding member during movement of the door causes the decorative front panel to slide relative to the door along the sliding axis, a cover device (190; 390; 390'; 590) mounted or mountable on the door assembly and configured to assume a first operating position and a second operating position when mounted on the door assembly, the first operating position in which the cover device leaves the access opening of the door uncovered and the second operating position in which the cover device at least partially covers the access opening of the door, the cover device being configured to mechanically cooperate with the sliding member so as to automatically move from the first operating position to the second operating position in response to sliding of the sliding member; The door (125; 325) comprises a guide member for guiding the cover device (190; 390; 390') between the first operating position and the second operating position, and the cover device is configured to move from the first operating position to the second operating position by sliding along the guide member.

2. The dishwasher (100; 300) according to claim 1, wherein The cover device (190; 390; 390') is mounted or can be mounted on the door.

3. The dishwasher (100; 300) according to claim 1, wherein The regulating member (135; 335) is mechanically coupled to the sliding member (180) so as to slide integrally therewith during movement of the door, and wherein the cover device (190; 390; 390') comprises a retaining member (240; 440) configured to retain the regulating member during sliding of the regulating member while the door is moved from the closed position to the open position, the sliding of the regulating member exerting a force on the retaining member along the sliding axis (L) which causes the cover device to move from the first operating position to the second operating position.

4. The dishwasher (100; 300) according to claim 3, wherein: The cover device (190; 390; 390') includes an engagement member configured to engage an engagement area of ​​the door (125; 325) in a first operating position of the cover device, the force causing the engagement member to disengage the engagement area of ​​the door to move the cover device toward the second operating position.

5. The dishwasher (100; 300) according to claim 4, wherein: The cover arrangement (190; 390; 390') is configured to flex resiliently to allow the engagement member to disengage the engagement region of the door (125; 325) to move the cover arrangement from the first operating position to the second operating position.

6. The dishwasher (100; 300) according to claim 3, wherein: The cover device (190; 390; 390') comprises an engagement member configured to engage an engagement portion of the door (125; 325) in a second operating position of the cover device, the force causing the engagement member to engage the engagement portion of the door.

7. The dishwasher (100; 300) according to claim 6, wherein: The cover device (190; 390; 390') is configured to automatically move from the first operating position to the second operating position in response to a first door movement, and the engagement between the engagement member and the engagement portion allows the cover device to remain in the second operating position during each door movement after the first door movement.

8. The dishwasher (100; 300) according to claim 7, wherein: The cover arrangement (190; 390; 390') is configured to be manually moved from the second operating position to the first operating position.

9. The dishwasher (100; 300) according to claim 8, wherein The door (125; 325) is configured to rotate about a rotation axis between the closed position and the open position, and the cover device (190; 390; 390') is configured to be manually moved from the second operating position to the first operating position when the door is rotated at least a predetermined rotation angle relative to the rotation axis.

10. The dishwasher (100) according to claim 9, wherein: The access openings (1401, 1402) are provided on the side wall of the door (125), and the cover device (190) can be mounted or installed on the outside of the side wall of the door.

11. The dishwasher (100) according to claim 1, further comprising a guide aperture (140) at a side wall of the door for guiding the cover device (190) between the first operating position and the second operating position. 1G , 140 2G ).

12. The dishwasher (100) according to claim 1, wherein The cover arrangement (190) includes at least one friction member (2201, 2202) for providing a frictional coupling between the cover arrangement and the door (125).

13. The dishwasher (100) according to claim 1, wherein The cover arrangement (190) includes at least one reinforcement member for reinforcing the coupling between the cover arrangement and the door when the cover arrangement is in the first operating position.

14. The dishwasher (100) according to claim 13, wherein: The reinforcement member is configured to abut the access aperture when the cover device (190) is in the first operating position.

15. The dishwasher (100) according to claim 1, wherein The cover device (190) includes an anti-release member (230) for preventing the cover device from accidentally being disconnected from the door when the cover device is in the second operating position.

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