Solid detergent dispenser attached to dishwasher stand

Abstract

An apparatus for dispensing a detergent solution from a solid detergent into a dishwasher, the apparatus being attachable to a dishwasher support about a perimeter of the support and collecting water in the dishwasher and using the collected water to produce the detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent. In various embodiments, the apparatus may include a detergent chamber containing the solid detergent and optionally a detergent depletion indicator indicating an amount of the solid detergent in the detergent chamber. In various embodiments, release of the detergent solution may be passively controlled using the size of the liquid outlet, or actively controlled using the operating state of the dishwasher and / or a sensing signal indicative of the detergent concentration in the water of the dishwasher.

Description

[0001] Priority Claim

[0002] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 378,575, filed Oct. 6, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to detergent dispensing for warewashing, and more particularly to a method and apparatus for dispensing solid detergent in a washing machine, such as a dishwasher. Background of the Invention

[0004] A dishwasher, also known as a warewasher or dishwashing machine, is a machine for automatically cleaning items such as dishes, trays, laboratory equipment, tableware, and kitchen utensils. A batch of objects to be cleaned (e.g., dishes) can be loaded into a tub of the dishwasher, which typically includes racks and utensil holders to hold the objects in place during a cleaning cycle that includes wash and rinse cycles. During the wash cycle, a cleaning mixture of water and dishwasher detergent is sprayed into the loaded tub to jet the dishes. The cleaning mixture is then drained before the rinse cycle begins. During the rinse cycle, water is sprayed into the wash chamber to remove residues of the cleaning mixture. After the rinse cycle is completed and the rinse water is drained, air and / or heat can optionally be used to dry the dishes during a drying cycle. Dishwashers can have various user-selectable settings for each cleaning cycle. These settings can define, for example, the time, temperature, and repetition of each of the wash, rinse, and drying cycles. These settings can also allow the user to select which cycles to include (e.g., only rinse, only dry, rinse and dry, or wash and rinse without drying).

[0005] A dishwasher can include racks that allow various objects to be arranged in the dishwasher and held in place during the cleaning cycle. Such racks can be an integral part of the dishwasher (e.g., slide out for loading dishes and slide in before the start of the cleaning cycle) and / or removable racks that can be provided as a dishwasher accessory to be placed in the dishwasher after loading the objects to be washed. Examples of such racks include peg racks each adapted to hold one or more specific types of items (such as glasses, cups, plates, trays, and / or silverware) and open racks adapted to hold items having shapes and / or dimensions that are difficult to fit into peg racks.

[0006] Ordinary household dishwashers are under-counter units designed to be installed under a kitchen counter. Other types of dishwashers include industrial or commercial dishwashers for restaurants, hotels, and other commercial establishments with food service. Dishwasher detergents used in these dishwashers can include chemicals capable of cleaning, disinfecting, and / or reducing the surface tension of water (and thus reducing water spots on dishes). Such dishwasher detergents are made in various solid and liquid forms. Solid dishwasher detergents include chemicals made in the form of solid blocks, such as tablets in various shapes. Summary of the Invention

[0007] An apparatus for dispensing a detergent solution from a solid detergent into a dishwasher, the apparatus being attachable to a dishwasher rack around a perimeter of the rack and collecting water in the dishwasher and using the collected water to generate the detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent. In various embodiments, the apparatus can include a detergent chamber that houses the solid detergent and optionally a detergent exhaustion indicator that indicates an amount of the solid detergent in the detergent chamber. In various embodiments, release of the detergent solution can be controlled passively using the size of a liquid outlet or actively using an operating state of the dishwasher and / or a sensed signal indicating a concentration of detergent in the dishwasher water.

[0008] In one embodiment, an apparatus is configured to be attached to a dishwasher rack and dispense a solid detergent. The rack is configured to be removably placed in a dishwasher capable of performing a cleaning cycle. The apparatus includes a frame that can include: an inner edge removably connected to the rack around a perimeter of the rack; a detergent chamber that houses the solid detergent; a liquid inlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow water to flow into the detergent chamber to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent in the detergent chamber; and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow the detergent solution to flow out of the detergent chamber.

[0009] In one embodiment, a system is configured to dispense a detergent solution from a solid detergent into a dishwasher capable of performing a cleaning cycle. The system can include a dishwasher rack and a frame. The dishwasher rack is configured to be removably placed in the dishwasher. The frame can include: an inner edge connected to the rack around a perimeter of the rack; a detergent chamber that houses the solid detergent; a liquid inlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow water to flow into the detergent chamber to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent in the detergent chamber; and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow the detergent solution to flow out of the detergent chamber.

[0010] In one embodiment, a method for operating a detergent dispensing system in a dishwasher is provided. The dishwasher is capable of performing a cleaning cycle, each cycle including a wash and a rinse period. The method may include holding solid detergent in a detergent chamber inside a frame, the frame being configured to be attached to a dishwasher bracket. The bracket may be removably placed in the dishwasher. The frame may surround the perimeter of the bracket when attached to the bracket. The method may further include: collecting, using a liquid inlet on the frame, a portion of the water sprayed into the dishwasher during the wash and rinse periods; forming a detergent solution in the detergent chamber by using the collected portion of water to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent; and releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber using a liquid outlet on the frame.

[0011] This summary is an overview of some teachings of the present application and is not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustive treatment of the subject matter. Further details regarding the subject matter can be found in the detailed description and the appended claims. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The drawings generally illustrate, by way of example, various embodiments discussed in the present disclosure. The drawings are for illustrative purposes only and may not be drawn to scale.

[0013] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a detergent dispenser attached to a dishwasher bracket in a dishwasher.

[0014] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a detergent dispenser (such as Figure 1 the detergent dispenser).

[0015] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a detergent chamber of a detergent dispenser (such as Figure 2 the detergent dispenser).

[0016] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating another embodiment of a detergent dispenser (such as Figure 1 the detergent dispenser).

[0017] Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a detergent exhaustion indicator of a detergent dispenser (such as Figure 4 the detergent dispenser).

[0018] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating another embodiment of a detergent dispenser (such as Figure 1 the detergent dispenser).

[0019] Figure 7 is a block diagram of an embodiment of an dispensing control unit of an exemplary detergent dispenser, such as Figure 6 the detergent dispenser.

[0020] Figure 8 is a block diagram of another embodiment of an dispensing control unit of an exemplary detergent dispenser, such as Figure 6 the detergent dispenser.

[0021] Figure 9 is an illustration of an embodiment of a detergent dispenser attached to a dishwasher bracket, showing Figure 1 an exemplary implementation of the dishwasher bracket of Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 or Figure 6 the exemplary implementation of the detergent dispenser.

[0022] Figure 10 is Figure 9 another perspective illustration of an embodiment showing a detergent dispenser attached to a dishwasher bracket.

[0023] Figure 11 is a side view illustration of an embodiment of a detergent dispenser attached to Figure 9 and Figure 10 the dishwasher bracket, showing Figure 6 the exemplary implementation of the detergent dispenser.

[0024] Figure 12 is Figure 11 a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the detergent dispenser. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The following detailed description of the subject matter refers to the subject matter in the figures, which illustrate by way of example specific aspects and embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the subject matter. References in this disclosure to "one," "an," or "various" embodiments are not necessarily references to the same embodiment, and such references contemplate multiple embodiments. The scope of the invention is limited by the appended claims and the full scope of legal equivalents authorized by such claims.

[0026] The present subject matter relates to a method and apparatus for dispensing solid detergent in a dishwasher, which allows the solid detergent for each load to last through multiple cleaning cycles. The dispenser can be configured as a frame that is removably attached to a removable dishwasher bracket. During the wash and / or rinse cycles of the dishwasher, the solid detergent can be contained within the frame to be dissolved by water flowing through the frame, thereby forming a detergent solution. The release of the detergent solution can be controlled passively by sizing a liquid outlet on the frame, or actively based on the operating state of the dishwasher or the sensed detergent concentration in the dishwasher.

[0027] In various embodiments, the present dispenser is easy to use (e.g., substantially automatic detergent dispensing, where the detergent is loaded between multiple cleaning cycles), while providing a substantially consistent amount and concentration of detergent solution for each cleaning cycle. The present dispenser can be retrofitted both spatially and functionally for various dishwashers, including under-counter dishwashers for home use, to allow the use of solid detergent blocks as an option in addition to the existing options provided by built-in detergent dispensers.

[0028] Among other advantages, the present dispenser eliminates the need to add dishwasher detergent before each cleaning cycle. It also increases the consistency of the concentration and amount of detergent dispensed by the system. Dishwasher detergent in solid form is a safer alternative to its liquid form, as the solid form is more concentrated than its liquid form, has no risk of spillage, and may not require personal protective equipment. Solid detergents also provide sustainability benefits due to reduced packaging and water content and a smaller storage footprint at the consumer's location. Since the present dispenser is not fixed to the dishwasher or the bracket, it can be easily removed to allow any maintenance work (e.g., cleaning and / or disinfection) on the dishwasher, the bracket, or the dispenser itself.

[0029] As used in this disclosure, a "dishwasher" (which may also be referred to as a warewasher or dishwashing machine) can include any type of washing machine that can use detergent for cleaning and / or disinfection purposes. One example includes an under-counter dishwasher for washing tableware, flatware, pots and pans, knives, flatware, glasses, kitchen utensils, dinner plates, trays, etc. Commercial dishwashing equipment examples can also use the present subject matter. A dishwasher includes a wash tub formed by the inner wall and door of the dishwasher. In an example of an under-counter kitchen dishwasher, the door rotates about a horizontal axis up to about 90 degrees to switch between a fully closed state and a fully open state. The door has an inner side and an outer side, both of which are substantially vertical when the door is fully closed and both of which are substantially horizontal when the door is fully open.

[0030] As used in this disclosure, a "dishwasher rack" (which may also be referred to as a utensil wash rack) can include any rack used in a dishwasher, such as for holding any objects to be washed. Unless otherwise specified, a "rack" in this disclosure refers to a dishwasher rack. The rack can be an integral part of the dishwasher or a removable accessory suitable for the dishwasher. The rack can be a peg rack or an open rack and can have any size and shape suitable for the dishwasher. Each dishwasher can include one or more integral racks and / or can accommodate one or more removable racks.

[0031] As used in this disclosure, a "cleaning cycle" can include other cycles, such as one or more of a wash cycle, a rinse cycle, and a dry cycle, depending on the settings made by the user of the dishwasher. The door is opened at least once between two consecutive cleaning cycles to allow loading of dishes and / or other objects to be cleaned and unloading of the cleaned dishes and / or other objects. "Cleaning" can include only cleaning, only disinfecting, or cleaning and disinfecting, depending on, for example, whether the solid detergent block is capable of only cleaning, only disinfecting, or cleaning and disinfecting. A "wash cycle" includes a cycle or operating mode intended to apply a cleaning mixture formed of water and detergent to the dishes and / or other objects. A "rinse cycle" includes a cycle or operating mode intended to apply water or water and a chemical rinse aid and / or a chemical disinfectant to the dishes and / or other objects. Some dishwashers (such as commercial dishwashers) can include a rinse cycle primarily for disinfecting by heat and / or chemical means. A "dry cycle" includes a cycle or operating mode intended to dry the cleaned dishes and / or other objects by an air flow and / or heat without applying additional water and / or detergent. The dishwasher can allow the user to select whether to include a dry cycle in the cleaning cycle, as the user can open the dishwasher door to allow the washed and rinsed dishes to air dry naturally or move the washed and rinsed dishes to another location for drying.

[0032] For this subject matter, the application in a dishwasher is discussed by way of example and not limitation. The system for dispensing solid detergent of the present invention can be applied to any washing machine that sprays water, which can be collected to dissolve a portion of the solid detergent during a cleaning cycle.

[0033] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a detergent dispenser 120 attached to a dishwasher rack 110 in a dishwasher 100. As Figure 1 shown, for purposes of illustration and not limitation, the dishwasher 100 includes a wash tub 104 formed by an inner wall 106 and a door 102. The dishwasher 100 can perform a cleaning cycle, with each cleaning cycle including at least a wash cycle and a rinse cycle.

[0034] The holder 110 can be used to hold an object to be washed in the dishwasher 100. The holder 110 can be attached to the dishwasher 100 and positioned in the tub 104 (i.e., built-in holder) or removably placed in the dishwasher 100 (i.e., removable holder). The dispenser 120 can be configured for use with the holder 110, such as being attached to the holder 110. In various embodiments, the holder 110 is a removable holder that is configured to be retrofittable to various existing dishwashers, and the dispenser 120 is configured to be detachably attached to the holder 110 such that the assembly of the holder 110 and the dispenser 120 can be retrofittable to various existing dishwashers. Thus, the design of the dispenser 120 is subject to spatial constraints when attached to the holder 110 and placed in one of the existing dishwashers.

[0035] Although embodiments including a dispenser detachably attached to a removable holder are specifically discussed by way of example, the subject matter can be applied to various other combinations of holders and dispensers (e.g., a dispenser attached to a removable holder, a dispenser attached to a built-in holder, or a dispenser detachably attached to a built-in holder). In various embodiments, the holder 110 and the dishwasher 100 can each have different spatial characteristics (e.g., different shapes and sizes), and the dispenser 120 can have various shapes and sizes designed to be compatible with various versions of the holder 110 and various models of the dishwasher 100.

[0036] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a detergent dispenser 220. The dispenser 220 can represent an example of the dispenser 120 and can be configured to be attached to the holder 110. The dispenser 220 includes a liquid inlet 222, a liquid outlet 226, and a detergent chamber 224 for containing solid detergent. The liquid inlet 222 and the liquid outlet 226 are each in fluid communication with the detergent chamber 224. The liquid inlet 222 is configured and positioned on the dispenser 220 to collect water from the dishwasher 100 during the wash and rinse cycles and to allow the collected water to flow into the detergent chamber 224 to form a detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent. The liquid outlet 226 is configured and positioned on the dispenser 220 to allow the formed detergent solution to flow out of the dispenser 220 from the detergent chamber 224.

[0037] Dispenser 220 is an example of a "passive" dispensing device, where the amount of solid detergent dispensed during each cleaning cycle is controlled by the dimensions of the liquid inlet 222 and the liquid outlet 226. The liquid inlet 222 may include one or more holes located on the top portion of the device, and the liquid outlet 226 may include one or more holes located on the bottom portion of the device. During the wash and rinse cycles, water enters the detergent chamber 224 through the liquid inlet 222 to dissolve a portion of the solid detergent. The resulting detergent solution is released through the liquid outlet 226. The amount of solid detergent dispensed depends on the amount of water entering the detergent chamber 224 and the amount of detergent solution released from the detergent chamber 224. Thus, the number, size, and location of the holes can be determined to control the amount of solid detergent dispensed during each cleaning cycle.

[0038] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a detergent chamber 324 of a detergent dispenser, such as detergent dispenser 220. The detergent chamber 324 may represent an example of the detergent chamber 224 and may contain a solid detergent 328. The solid detergent 328 may be a detergent, a combination of a detergent and a rinse aid, a detergent, a rinse aid, and a salt ("3-in-1"), or any other chemical reagent or combination of chemical reagents suitable for a dishwasher. In various embodiments, the solid detergent 328 may be in the form of a tablet, a ball, a block, or any form suitable for being contained in the detergent chamber 324 and dissolving in the detergent chamber 324 in an acceptable manner (e.g., erosion rate). In one embodiment, the solid detergent 328 is an ashed-type combination of chemical reagents for high-performance single-use warewashing under various conditions (e.g., various temperatures and / or water hardness).

[0039] Figure 4is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a detergent dispenser 420. The dispenser 420 may represent another example of dispenser 120 and may be configured to attach to the bracket 110. The dispenser 420 is another example of a passive dispensing device and includes a detergent chamber 224, a liquid inlet 222, a liquid outlet 226, a detergent depletion indicator 430, and an optional power source 432. The detergent depletion indicator 430 may indicate to a user of the dishwasher that solid detergent needs to be refilled. In one embodiment, the detergent depletion indicator 430 includes a transparent window coupled to the detergent chamber 224. The transparent window allows the user to see the amount of solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber 224. A power source 432 is not required in this embodiment. In another embodiment, when the level of solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber 224 is substantially low (e.g., below a specified threshold level), the detergent depletion indicator 430 generates an audible or visual alarm signal. The power source 432 may include one or more batteries to supply power to the detergent depletion indicator 430 when operation is required. Thus, the dispenser 420 is essentially dispenser 220 with the additional function of indicating the need to refill the detergent.

[0040] Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a detergent depletion indicator 530 of a detergent dispenser, such as detergent dispenser 420. The detergent depletion indicator 530 may represent an example of detergent depletion indicator 430 and includes a detergent sensor 534. The detergent sensor 534 may sense a detergent level signal indicative of the level of solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber 224. Examples of the detergent sensor 534 include a photo sensor that is capable of detecting the level of solid detergent by transmitting light through the detergent chamber 224, receiving the light, and using the received light to determine whether solid detergent is present in the path of the light. The detergent depletion indicator 530 may indicate the need to refill in response to the detected level dropping below a threshold level, such as by generating an alarm (e.g., an audible or visual signal) receivable by the user before the user starts a new cleaning cycle.

[0041] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating a detergent dispenser 620 (such as Figure 1Block diagram of an embodiment of a detergent dispenser (e.g., dispenser 620). Dispenser 620 may represent another example of dispenser 120 and may be configured to be attached to bracket 110. Dispenser 620 includes a detergent chamber 224, a liquid inlet 222, a liquid outlet 226, a detergent depletion indicator 430, a power source 432, and a dispensing control unit 640. The dispensing control unit 640 may provide a controlled release of the detergent solution from the detergent chamber 224 through the liquid outlet 226 to the dishwasher. Thus, dispenser 620 is essentially dispenser 420 with the additional function of actively controlling the release of solid detergent. Depending on the design of the dispensing control unit 640, dispenser 620 may be an example of a "semi-active" dispensing device, where the release of solid detergent is controlled by the operating state of the dishwasher during each cleaning cycle, as further discussed with reference to Figure 7 below, and may also be an example of an "active" dispensing device, where the release of solid detergent is controlled by the detergent concentration in the water within the dishwasher, as further discussed with reference to Figure 8 below.

[0042] Figure 7 Block diagram of an embodiment of a dispensing control unit 740 of a detergent dispenser (such as dispenser 620). The dispenser control unit 740 may represent an example of the dispenser control unit 640 and may provide "semi-active" dispensing control to the detergent dispenser that controls the amount of detergent solution released per cleaning cycle. In various embodiments, the dispenser control unit 740 may detect and / or receive signals indicative of the operating state of a dishwasher (such as dishwasher 100). The operating state may include one or more cycles of each cleaning cycle. For example, it may include each of the wash, rinse, and dry cycles, or it may include the wash and rinse cycles (i.e., when water is sprayed into the wash tub) as one state.

[0043] The dispenser control unit 740 may be coupled between the detergent chamber 224 and the liquid outlet 226 to provide a controlled release dispensing 620 of the detergent solution by controlling the liquid flow from the detergent chamber 224 to the liquid outlet 226. The dispenser control unit 740 may include a valve 742, a valve controller 744, and a cleaning cycle detector 746. The valve 742 is coupled between the detergent chamber 224 and the liquid outlet 226 and is driven by a release signal. In one embodiment, the valve 742 includes a one-way valve (referred to as a check valve) that allows liquid to flow only in the direction from the detergent chamber 224 to the liquid outlet 226. The valve controller 744 may use an operating state signal indicating the operating state of the dishwasher to generate the release signal. The release signal causes the valve 742 to release a certain volume of the detergent solution for each cleaning cycle of the dishwasher (e.g., by opening the valve 742 for a predetermined period of time). In various embodiments, the valve controller 744 may cause the valve 742 to open for a programmed amount of time during each wash cycle or during each wash cycle and each rinse cycle.

[0044] The cleaning cycle detector 746 may use any available component to detect the operating state signal. In various embodiments, the cleaning cycle detector 746 may include a sensor to sense a signal indicating the operating state of the dishwasher. Examples of sensors may include one or any combination of an optical sensor, a flow sensor, and a temperature sensor. The optical sensor may sense light indicating that the door of the dishwasher (e.g., door 102 of dishwasher 100) is open. An open door indicates that the dishwasher is inactive between two cleaning cycles. The flow sensor may sense the liquid flow in the dishwasher (e.g., through the liquid inlet 222). The sensed liquid flow indicates whether the dishwasher is during a wash cycle or a rinse cycle. The temperature sensor may sense the temperature inside the dishwasher. Depending on the temperature settings of the dishwasher, and when the dishwasher is inactive between two cleaning cycles, the sensed temperature may indicate each of the wash, rinse, and dry cycles. In some embodiments, where one or more signals indicating the operating state of the dishwasher are available (e.g., when the dishwasher can be remotely controlled using a wirelessly transmitted signal), the cleaning cycle detector 746 may include a receiver that receives the signal and detects the operating state from the received signal.

[0045] Figure 8FIG. 0 is a block diagram of an implementation of a dispensing control unit 840 of an exemplary detergent dispenser, such as dispenser 620. The dispenser control unit 840 may represent another example of a dispenser control unit 640 and may provide "active" dispensing control to a detergent dispenser that controls the amount of detergent solution released by sensing and maintaining the concentration of detergent in the liquid within the wash tub of a dishwasher, such as tub 104 in dishwasher 100. In various implementations, the dispenser control unit 840 may collect liquid from the wash tub and sense the conductivity of the collected liquid. The conductivity of a known liquid is an indication of the concentration of detergent in the liquid. The dispenser control unit 840 may release detergent solution from the detergent chamber 224 when the conductivity (and thus the concentration of detergent) is below a specified (e.g., empirically determined) threshold.

[0046] The dispenser control unit 840 may be coupled between the detergent chamber 224 and the liquid outlet 226 to provide a controllable release of the detergent solution for dispensing 620 by controlling the flow of liquid from the detergent chamber 224 to the liquid outlet 226. The dispenser control unit 840 may include a valve 842, a valve controller 844, and a conductivity sensor 846. The valve 842 is coupled between the detergent chamber 224 and the liquid outlet 226 and is driven by a release signal. In one implementation, the valve 842 includes a one-way valve (referred to as a check valve) that allows liquid to flow only in the direction from the detergent chamber 224 to the liquid outlet 226. The valve controller 844 may generate a release signal using a concentration signal indicative of the concentration of detergent in the liquid collected from the wash tub of the dishwasher. For example, the valve controller 844 may generate a release signal during a cleaning cycle when the concentration signal indicates that the concentration of detergent is below a specified (e.g., empirically determined) threshold, and stop generating the release signal when the concentration signal indicates that the concentration of detergent has reached or exceeded the specified threshold, or when the dishwasher is inactive between two cleaning cycles. The valve 842 releases detergent solution from the detergent chamber 224 only when the release signal is present.

[0047] The conductivity sensor 846 can sense the electrical conductivity of a liquid and generate a concentration signal indicative of the concentration of detergent in the liquid. In various embodiments, the conductivity sensor 846 is positioned to sense the electrical conductivity of the liquid outside of a detergent dispenser in a dishwasher. For example, the conductivity sensor 846 can be positioned outside of the detergent dispenser to receive the liquid outside of the detergent dispenser, or positioned within the detergent dispenser to receive the liquid entering the liquid inlet 222 before the liquid reaches the detergent chamber 224. The conductivity sensor 846 can sense the electrical conductivity of the received liquid and generate a concentration signal. In various embodiments, instead of or in addition to sensing the electrical conductivity of the liquid outside of a detergent dispenser in a dishwasher, the conductivity sensor 846 can be used to sense the electrical conductivity of the liquid in the detergent chamber 224 and generate a concentration signal as an indication of the amount of solid detergent remaining on the detergent chamber 224. In such embodiments, the detergent depletion indicator 430 can generate an audible or visual alarm signal in response to the concentration signal dropping below a specified threshold indicating that the concentration of detergent in the detergent chamber 224 is below a threshold concentration.

[0048] The dispensing control units 740 and 840 are discussed by way of example and not limitation to show how the release of a detergent solution can be controlled in the dispenser 620. Other examples can include combinations of features of these dispensing control units. For example, another example of the dispensing control unit 640 can include both the cleaning cycle detector 746 and the conductivity sensor 846 such that the release signal can be the result of both the operating state signal and the concentration signal. This allows the dispensing control unit 640 to release the detergent solution from the detergent chamber 224, for example, only during a wash cycle when the concentration signal indicates that the concentration of detergent in the liquid is below a threshold.

[0049] Figure 9 is an illustration of an embodiment of a detergent dispenser 920 attached to a dishwasher bracket 910. Figure 10 is another perspective illustration of an embodiment of the dispenser 920 attached to the bracket 910. The bracket 910 represents an example of a specific implementation of the bracket 110. The dispenser 920 represents an example of a specific implementation of the dispensers 120, 220, 420, and 620.

[0050] The bracket 910 can be a rectangular bracket having four sidewalls 912 and a bottom plate 914 coupled to the sidewalls 912 (illustrated as a square opening bracket in Figure 9 ). The bottom plate 914 has holes that allow the liquid in the wash tub of the dishwasher to pass through during the wash and rinse cycles. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom plate 914 is a grid bottom plate. In various embodiments, the bracket 910 can be an opening bracket or a peg bracket and can have any shape and size suitable for placement in a dishwasher.

[0051] The dispenser 920 is configured to be attached to the bracket 910 such that the dispenser 920 can move with the bracket 910, thereby reducing the undesired movement of the frame 920 during the cleaning cycle. The dispenser 920 may include a frame 950 that is configured to be attached to the bracket 910 for its dispensing operation. The frame 950 includes an inner edge 956 that is connected to the bracket 910 around the perimeter of the bracket 910. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 950 has an upper portion 952 and a lower portion 954, and the upper portion 952 has an inner edge 956 that is used to attach the frame 950 to the bottom portion of the bracket by surrounding the perimeter of the bracket at the bottom portion of the bracket (i.e., attached to the bottom portion of the sidewall 912 adjacent to the bottom plate 914). In various embodiments, the frame 950 may be detachably attached to the bottom portion of the bracket 910. The inner edge 956 may be detachably connected to the bracket 910 around the perimeter of the bracket 910. In one embodiment, the frame 950 is a snap-fit frame that can be attached to the bottom portion of the bracket 910 using snaps. In various embodiments, the frame 950 has a geometric design that is compatible with the geometric design of the bracket 910 and can be retrofitted into various dishwashers when used with the bracket 910.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 950 is a hollow frame formed by a frame wall that has an inner surface that defines at least a portion of a detergent chamber 924 for containing solid detergent (e.g., in the form of tablets or balls). The liquid inlet 922 is shown as a hole in the frame wall on one side of the upper portion 952 of the frame 950. The liquid outlet 926 is shown as a hole in the frame wall at the bottom of the lower portion 954 of the frame 950. To be compatible with the illustrated bracket 910, the frame 950 has a rectangular shape (illustrated as a square shape in Figure 9 which) that has four inner edges 956 that are connected to the bottom portions of the four sidewalls 912 of the bracket 910 when the dispenser 920 is attached to the bracket 910. Each side of the frame 950 is about 20 mm to 30 mm wide and 20 mm to 30 mm high, where the length and / or width depends on the length and / or width of the bracket 910. The frame 950 does not have a bottom plate connected to the sides, thereby minimizing its impact on the movement of liquid through the bracket 910 during the wash and rinse cycles.

[0053] In various embodiments, the frame 950 includes a detergent chamber 924 and houses electronic devices and a power source when needed. For example, when the dispenser 220 is implemented as the dispenser 920, the detergent chamber 224, implemented as the detergent chamber 924, may occupy the entire interior space of the frame 950. When the dispenser 420 is implemented as the dispenser 920, the detergent chamber 224, implemented as the detergent chamber 924, may occupy the remaining interior space of the frame 950 after accommodating the detergent exhaustion indicator 430 and the power source 432. When the dispenser 620 is implemented as the dispenser 920, the detergent chamber 224, implemented as the detergent chamber 924, may occupy the remaining interior space of the frame 950 after accommodating the detergent exhaustion indicator 430, the power source 432, and the dispensing control unit 640. In various embodiments, the detergent chamber 924 is refillable, and the frame 950 includes a door (not shown) for adding solid detergent to the detergent chamber 924. After each refill of the solid detergent, the door may be firmly closed. In various embodiments, the liquid inlet 922 and the liquid outlet 926 may each include one or more holes of any shape.

[0054] Figure 11 is a side view illustration of an embodiment of the detergent dispenser 1120 attached to the bracket 910. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view illustration of the dispenser 1120. The dispenser 1120 represents an example of the dispenser 920 as a specific implementation of the dispenser 620 (i.e., configured to include the components of the dispenser 620). The dispenser 1120 includes an inner edge 1156 connected to the periphery of the bracket 910 around the bracket 910, by which the dispenser 1120 is attached to the bracket 910.

[0055] The dispenser 1120 includes a frame 1250 (e.g., implemented as the frame 950), which may be attached to the bracket 910. The frame 1250 includes four hollow sides and an interior space distributed among the four sides. This interior space houses the components of the dispenser 1120, including:

[0056] ● Detergent chambers 1224A and 1224B: Examples of the detergent chamber 224;

[0057] ● Dispensing control units 1240A and 1240B: Examples of the dispensing control unit 640;

[0058] ● Detergent exhaustion indicator 1230: An example of the detergent exhaustion indicator 430; and

[0059] ● Power source 1232: An example of the power source 432, which powers the detergent exhaustion indicator 1230 and the dispensing control units 1240A and 1240B.

[0060] It should be noted that the dispenser 1120 includes a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, electrical connectors between various components, and fluid conduits between various components, which are not shown in the cross-sectional view as illustrated in Figure 12 Also note that the illustrated embodiment includes two sets of detergent chambers and a dispensing control unit as a specific example of the component arrangement. In various embodiments, the components of the detergent dispenser can be arranged in various ways, including various design constraints and considerations.

[0061] Some non-limiting embodiments (Embodiments 1 to 22) of the present subject matter are provided as follows:

[0062] In Embodiment 1, an apparatus is provided that is configured to be attached to a dishwasher rack and dispense solid detergent. The rack is configured to be removably placed in a dishwasher capable of performing a cleaning cycle. The apparatus includes a frame that may include: an inner edge that is removably connected to the rack around the perimeter of the rack; a detergent chamber that houses the solid detergent; a liquid inlet that is in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow water to flow into the detergent chamber to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent in the detergent chamber; and a liquid outlet that is in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow the detergent solution to flow out of the detergent chamber.

[0063] In Embodiment 2, the subject matter of Embodiment 1 may optionally be configured such that the frame is configured to be removably attached to the rack using snaps.

[0064] In Embodiment 3, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Embodiments 1 and 2 may optionally be configured such that the frame includes a hollow frame formed by a frame wall having an inner surface that defines the detergent chamber, and the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet each include one or more holes located in the frame wall.

[0065] In Embodiment 4, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Embodiments 1 to 3 may optionally be configured such that the frame further includes a detergent exhaustion indicator that includes a transparent window that is incorporated into the detergent chamber to allow observation of the amount of solid detergent in the detergent chamber.

[0066] In Example 5, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 1 to 3 may optionally be configured such that the frame further includes a detergent exhaustion indicator, the detergent exhaustion indicator including a detergent sensor configured to sense a detergent level signal indicative of the level of the solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber. The detergent exhaustion indicator is configured to indicate detergent exhaustion in response to the sensed detergent level signal indicating that the level is below a threshold level.

[0067] In Example 6, the subject matter of Example 5 may optionally be configured such that the detergent sensor includes a conductivity sensor configured to sense a concentration signal indicative of the concentration of the detergent in the detergent chamber, and the detergent exhaustion indicator is configured to indicate detergent exhaustion in response to the sensed concentration signal dropping below a threshold concentration.

[0068] In Example 7, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 1 to 6 may optionally be configured such that the frame further includes a dispensing control unit configured to actively control the volume of the detergent solution flowing out of the detergent chamber.

[0069] In Example 8, the subject matter of Example 7 may optionally be configured such that the dispensing control unit includes: a cleaning cycle detector configured to detect an operation state signal indicative of the operation state of the dishwasher; a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet and driven by a release signal, the valve being configured to be driven by the release signal; and a valve controller configured to generate the release signal using the sensed operation state signal. The release signal causes the valve to release a predetermined volume of the detergent solution for each cleaning cycle in the cleaning cycle.

[0070] In Example 9, the subject matter of Example 7 may optionally be configured such that the dispensing control unit includes: a conductivity sensor configured to sense a concentration signal indicative of the concentration of the detergent in the dishwasher; a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the valve being configured to be driven by a release signal; and a valve controller configured to generate the release signal when the sensed concentration signal indicates that the concentration is below a threshold concentration.

[0071] In Example 10, a system is provided for dispensing a detergent solution from a solid detergent into a dishwasher capable of performing a cleaning cycle. The system may include a dishwasher bracket and a frame. The dishwasher bracket may be configured to be removably placed in the dishwasher. The frame may include: an inner edge that is connected to the bracket around the perimeter of the bracket; a detergent chamber that houses the solid detergent; a liquid inlet that is in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow water to flow into the detergent chamber to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent in the detergent chamber; and a liquid outlet that is in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow the detergent solution to flow out of the detergent chamber.

[0072] In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 may optionally be configured to further include the solid detergent, the solid detergent comprising a detergent formulation and a rinse aid, and the solid detergent being in the form of a tablet or a sphere.

[0073] In Example 12, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 10 and 11 may optionally be configured such that the bracket is a rectangular bracket having four sidewalls and a bottom plate coupled to the four sidewalls, and the frame includes four inner edges that each connect to a portion of one of the four sidewalls of the bracket when the frame is attached to the bracket.

[0074] In Example 13, the subject matter of Example 12 may optionally be configured such that the inner edge is configured to be detachably connected to the bracket around the perimeter of the bracket, such that the frame is configured to be detachably attached to the bracket.

[0075] In Example 14, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 10 to 13 may optionally be configured such that the frame further includes a dispensing control unit configured to controllably release the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet. The dispensing control unit includes: a cleaning cycle detector configured to detect an operating state signal indicative of an operating state of the dishwasher; a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the valve being configured to be driven by a release signal; and a valve controller configured to use the sensed operating state signal to generate the release signal, the release signal causing the valve to release a predetermined volume of the detergent solution for each cleaning cycle in the cleaning cycle.

[0076] In Example 15, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 10 to 13 may optionally be configured such that the frame further includes a dispensing control unit configured to controllably release the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet. The dispensing control unit includes: a conductivity sensor configured to sense a concentration signal indicative of the concentration of the detergent in the dishwasher; a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet and driven by a release signal; and a valve controller configured to generate the release signal when the sensed concentration signal indicates that the concentration is below a threshold concentration.

[0077] In Example 16, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 10 to 15 may optionally be configured such that the frame further includes a detergent exhaustion indicator including a detergent sensor configured to sense a detergent level signal indicative of the level of the solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber. The detergent exhaustion indicator is configured to indicate detergent exhaustion in response to the sensed detergent level indicating that the level is below a threshold level.

[0078] In Example 17, a method for operating a detergent dispensing system in a dishwasher is provided. The dishwasher is capable of performing a cleaning cycle, each cycle including a wash and a rinse period. The method may include holding solid detergent in a detergent chamber inside a frame configured to be attached to a dishwasher bracket. The bracket may be removably placed in the dishwasher. The frame may surround the perimeter of the bracket when attached to the bracket. The method may further include: collecting, using a liquid inlet on the frame, a portion of the water sprayed into the dishwasher during the wash and rinse periods; forming, using the collected portion of the water, a detergent solution in the detergent chamber by at least partially dissolving the solid detergent; and releasing, using a liquid outlet on the frame, the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber.

[0079] In Example 18, the subject matter of holding solid detergent as found in Example 17 may optionally include: holding a tablet or a ball of a combination of detergent and rinse aid.

[0080] In Example 19, the subject matter of releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber as found in any one or any combination of Examples 17 and 18 may optionally include: releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber through one or more holes on the frame. The size of the one or more holes is set to control the volume of the formed detergent solution to be released.

[0081] In Example 20, the subject matter of releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber as found in any one or any combination of Examples 17 and 18 may optionally include: releasing a prescribed volume of the detergent solution from the detergent chamber for each cleaning cycle of these cleaning cycles.

[0082] In Example 21, the subject matter of releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber as found in any one or any combination of Examples 17 and 18 may optionally include: using a sensor incorporated into the frame to sense a conductivity signal indicative of the concentration of the detergent in liquid form in the dishwasher; and using the conductivity signal to control the release of the detergent solution from the detergent chamber.

[0083] In Example 22, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 17 to 21 may optionally further include: monitoring the level of the solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber, and using the result of the monitoring to generate a detergent exhaustion alarm.

[0084] This application is intended to cover modifications or variations of this subject matter. It should be understood that the above description is illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention should be determined by reference to the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents authorized by such claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus configured to be attached to a dishwasher rack and dispense solid detergent, the rack being configured to be removably placed in a dishwasher capable of performing a cleaning cycle, the apparatus comprises: a frame, the frame comprising: an inner edge removably connected to the rack around the perimeter of the rack; a detergent chamber that houses the solid detergent; a liquid inlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow water to flow into the detergent chamber to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent in the detergent chamber; and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow the detergent solution to flow out of the detergent chamber.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the frame is configured to be removably attached to the rack using a snap fit.

3. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame comprises a hollow frame formed by a frame wall having an inner surface that defines the detergent chamber, and the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet each comprise one or more holes located in the frame wall.

4. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame further comprises a detergent exhaustion indicator including a transparent window incorporated into the detergent chamber to allow viewing of the amount of the solid detergent in the detergent chamber.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the frame further comprises a detergent exhaustion indicator including a detergent sensor configured to sense a detergent level signal indicative of the level of the solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber, the detergent exhaustion indicator being configured to indicate detergent exhaustion in response to the sensed detergent level signal indicating that the level is below a threshold level.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the detergent sensor comprises a conductivity sensor configured to sense a concentration signal indicative of the concentration of the detergent in the detergent chamber, and the detergent exhaustion indicator is configured to indicate detergent exhaustion in response to the sensed concentration signal dropping below a threshold concentration.

7. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame further comprises a dispensing control unit configured to actively control the volume of the detergent solution flowing out of the detergent chamber.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the dispensing control unit comprises: a cleaning cycle detector configured to detect an operation state signal indicative of the operation state of the dishwasher; a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the valve being configured to be driven by a release signal; and A valve controller configured to generate the release signal using the sensed operating state signal, the release signal causing the valve to release a predetermined volume of the detergent solution for each cleaning cycle in the cleaning cycle.

9. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the dispensing control unit comprises: A conductivity sensor configured to sense a concentration signal indicative of the concentration of the detergent in the dishwasher; A valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the valve being configured to be driven by a release signal; and A valve controller configured to generate the release signal when the sensed concentration signal indicates that the concentration is below a threshold concentration.

10. A system for dispensing a detergent solution from a solid detergent into a dishwasher capable of performing a cleaning cycle, the system comprises: A dishwasher bracket configured to be removably placed in the dishwasher; and A frame comprising: An inner edge connected to the bracket around the perimeter of the bracket; a detergent chamber for containing the solid detergent; A liquid inlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow water to flow into the detergent chamber to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent in the detergent chamber; and A liquid outlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow the detergent solution to flow out of the detergent chamber.

11. The system according to claim 10, further comprising the solid detergent, wherein the solid detergent comprises a detergent formulation and a rinse aid, and the solid detergent is in the form of a tablet or a ball.

12. The system according to any one of claims 10 and 11, wherein the bracket is a rectangular bracket having four side walls and a bottom plate coupled to the four side walls, and the frame comprises four inner edges, each of the four inner edges being connected to a portion of one of the four side walls of the bracket when the frame is attached to the bracket.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the inner edge is configured to be detachably connected to the bracket around the perimeter of the bracket, such that the frame is configured to be detachably attached to the bracket.

14. The system according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the frame further comprises a dispensing control unit configured to controllably release the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet, the dispensing control unit comprises: A cleaning cycle detector configured to detect an operating state signal indicative of the operating state of the dishwasher; A valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the valve being configured to be driven by a release signal; and A valve controller configured to generate the release signal using the sensed operating state signal, the release signal causing the valve to release a predetermined volume of the detergent solution for each cleaning cycle in the cleaning cycle.

15. The system according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the frame further comprises a dispensing control unit configured to controllably release the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet, the dispensing control unit comprising: A conductivity sensor configured to sense a concentration signal indicative of the concentration of the detergent in the dishwasher; A valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet and driven by a release signal; and A valve controller configured to generate the release signal when the sensed concentration signal indicates that the concentration is below a threshold concentration.

16. The system according to any one of claims 10 to 15, wherein the frame further comprises a detergent exhaustion indicator including a detergent sensor configured to sense a detergent level signal indicative of the level of the solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber, the detergent exhaustion indicator being configured to indicate detergent exhaustion in response to the sensed detergent level signal indicating that the level is below a threshold level.

17. A method for operating a detergent dispensing system in a dishwasher, the dishwasher being capable of performing cleaning cycles, each cleaning cycle including a washing and a rinsing period, the method comprising: Holding a solid detergent in a detergent chamber inside a frame configured to be attached to a dishwasher bracket removably placed in the dishwasher, the frame surrounding the perimeter of the bracket when attached to the bracket; Collecting, using a liquid inlet on the frame, a portion of the water sprayed into the dishwasher during the washing and rinsing periods; Using the collected portion of water to form a detergent solution in the detergent chamber by at least partially dissolving the solid detergent; and Releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber using a liquid outlet on the frame.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein holding the solid detergent comprises: Holding a tablet or a ball of a combination of detergent and a rinse aid.

19. The method according to any one of claims 17 and 18, wherein releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber comprises: Releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber through one or more holes on the frame, the size of the one or more holes being set to control the volume of the formed detergent solution to be released.

20. The method according to any one of claims 17 and 18, wherein releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber comprises: Releasing a predetermined volume of the detergent solution from the detergent chamber for each cleaning cycle in the cleaning cycle.

21. The method according to any one of claims 17 and 18, wherein releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber comprises: using a sensor incorporated into the frame to sense a conductivity signal indicative of the concentration of the detergent in liquid form in the dishwasher; and using the conductivity signal to control the release of the detergent solution from the detergent chamber.

22. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 21, the method further comprises: monitoring the level of the solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber; and using the result of the monitoring to generate a detergent exhaustion alarm.

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