Appliance for washing kitchen items

Abstract

In one aspect, an appliance for washing kitchen items is provided, the appliance comprising: a cabinet (105); a washing chamber (110) inside the cabinet, the washing chamber configured to receive kitchen items to be washed, the washing chamber having a washing chamber access opening for loading / unloading kitchen items to the washing chamber; a door (125) is movably mounted to the cabinet to selectively close the wash chamber access opening. A multi-dose detergent dispenser (140) assembly is provided on the door, the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly comprising: a detergent cartridge housing (501; 2801) configured to receive and contain an interchangeable multi-dose detergent cartridge (401) configured to store detergent, the detergent cartridge housing comprising a guide member (511-515; 2811-3015) configured to guide the detergent box when inserted into / removed from the detergent box housing; a pump housing (317) configured to accommodate volumetric metering pumps (2001), preferably peristaltic pumps, which are configured and operable to pump a dosing amount of detergent. The pump housing includes: detergent inlets (517) configured to receive detergent from the detergent cartridge when the detergent cartridge is accommodated in the detergent cartridge housing; and detergent outlets (205) configured to dispense detergent into the washing chamber. The volumetric metering pumps are arranged in the pump housing between the detergent inlets and the detergent outlets for taking a dosing amount of detergent from the detergent box through the detergent inlets when the detergent box is accommodated in the detergent box housing, and dispensing the dosed amount of detergent into the washing chamber through the detergent outlets.

Description

Background of the Invention Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to appliances for washing kitchen items, including tableware (plates, dishes, cups, glasses, etc.), cutlery, and food cooking items (pots, pans). For example, this invention generally relates to dishwashers. Appliances (e.g., dishwashers) can be for domestic or professional use. Background Technology

[0002] Conventional appliances used for washing kitchen items (e.g., dishwashers) have a detergent dispensing device for receiving one (or more) detergents that are added to the wash water during the wash cycle to clean the items placed in the machine's wash chamber.

[0003] All (multiple) detergents in the detergent dispensing device are routinely dispensed into the washing chamber and mixed with the washing water circulating therein during the washing cycle.

[0004] The size of the detergent dispenser is typically determined to allow for the amount of detergent required for a single wash cycle. Therefore, before starting any wash cycle, the user of the appliance needs to pour the required amount of detergent into the detergent dispenser.

[0005] This operation is inconvenient for the user of the appliance. Furthermore, a problem with this type of dishwasher is that the amount of detergent poured into the detergent dispenser (which is essentially the user's responsibility and judgment) can vary from user to user and also from wash cycle to wash. Adding the wrong amount of detergent can lead to unsatisfactory washing results if the amount is insufficient, and on the other hand, adding too much detergent can result in waste, unnecessary environmental pollution, and financial loss.

[0006] Another problem with conventional detergent dispensers in dishwashers is that they add the entire amount of detergent stored within to the wash water at once, thus preventing the execution of more complex wash cycles. For example, in some situations, it might be advantageous to add detergent to the wash water in partial doses at different times during the wash cycle, rather than all at once: detergent dispensers designed to receive a single dose of detergent cannot support such complex wash cycles.

[0007] If the detergent dispenser contains more detergent than is needed for a single wash cycle, the excess detergent remains in the dispenser for use in subsequent wash cycles, which can cause problems.

[0008] For example, US 2010 / 108105 A1 points out the following problem: the detergent portion not added to the wash water during the wash cycle is exposed to high temperatures and high temperature differences in each wash cycle, which imposes stringent requirements on the long-term stability of the detergent in order to maintain the desired cleaning effect.

[0009] US 2010 / 108105 A1 discloses a water-transferring household appliance, particularly a household dishwasher, comprising a washing compartment for receiving items to be processed by the water-transferring appliance; and a detergent dispensing system having a detergent dispenser with a receiving compartment for receiving at least one cartridge configured to hold at least one detergent. The detergent dispensing system is formed by a plurality of housing walls, and at least a portion of at least one housing wall of the detergent dispensing system is insulated. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The applicant has solved the problem of designing an appliance for washing kitchen items, such as a dishwasher (for both domestic and professional use), characterized by an improved multi-dose detergent dispensing device or system.

[0011] "Multi-dosage detergent dispensing device or system" means a detergent dispensing device or system configured to dispense a fixed amount of detergent or detergent components that, once mixed, form detergent for washing kitchen items during a washing cycle, wherein the fixed amount of detergent is taken from a detergent storage device configured to hold a larger amount of detergent than is required for a single washing cycle.

[0012] Such a detergent storage device, from which a fixed amount of detergent is obtained, can advantageously take the form of an "interchangeable multi-dose detergent dispenser" or simply a "detergent dispenser," intended as a storage device for detergent / detergent components, configured to hold a larger amount of detergent / detergent components than required for a single wash cycle. Preferably, the detergent dispenser is configured to store separate, unmixed amounts of detergent components that, once mixed, form a detergent for washing kitchen items; the detergent dispenser is configured to store an amount of such detergent components sufficient for multiple wash cycles without refilling.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, an appliance for washing kitchen items is provided.

[0014] The appliance used for washing kitchen items includes a cabinet.

[0015] Inside the cabinet, there is a washing room configured to hold kitchen items to be washed.

[0016] The washing room has a washing room entrance opening for loading / unloading kitchen items.

[0017] The door is movably mounted to the cabinet and configured to selectively close the washroom entrance opening; The appliance includes a multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly. This multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly is advantageously positioned on the door.

[0018] The multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly includes a detergent cartridge housing configured to receive and accommodate an interchangeable multi-dose detergent cartridge configured to store detergent.

[0019] The detergent dispenser housing includes guide members configured to guide the detergent dispenser when inserted into / removed from the detergent dispenser housing.

[0020] The multi-dosage detergent dispenser assembly includes a pump housing configured to house a volumetric metering pump, preferably a peristaltic pump, configured and operable to pump a fixed amount of detergent.

[0021] The pump housing includes detergent inlets configured to receive detergent from the detergent cartridge when the detergent cartridge is housed in the detergent cartridge housing.

[0022] The pump housing includes detergent outlets configured to dispense detergent into the washing chamber.

[0023] These positive displacement metering pumps are arranged in the pump housing, between the detergent inlets and the detergent outlets, for obtaining a fixed amount of detergent from the detergent cartridge through the detergent inlets when the detergent cartridge is housed in the detergent cartridge housing, and dispensing the fixed amount of detergent into the washing chamber through the detergent outlets.

[0024] In a non-limiting embodiment, the detergent dispenser housing includes a cavity that opens toward the washroom when the door is in the closed position.

[0025] In a non-limiting embodiment, the pump housing is closed by the pump housing wall on the side of the door facing the washing chamber when the door is in the closed position.

[0026] Advantageously, the positive displacement metering pump housed in the pump housing is separated from the washing chamber by the pump housing wall.

[0027] In a non-limiting embodiment, the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly includes a support element.

[0028] The support element includes the detergent cartridge housing, the pump housing, and a perimeter frame surrounding the detergent cartridge housing and the pump housing.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the support element is a single piece.

[0030] Preferably, the support element is installed on the inner panel of the door, which faces the washing chamber when the door is in the closed position.

[0031] Preferably, the pump housing is open on the side opposite to the pump housing wall, for mounting these positive displacement metering pumps in the pump housing.

[0032] Advantageously, when the door is in the closed position, the pump housing is positioned below the detergent dispenser housing.

[0033] In an embodiment, the positive displacement metering pump includes a pump inlet and a pump outlet. Preferably, the pump housing includes first fluid conduits configured to fluidly connect the detergent inlets to the pump inlets. Even more preferably, the pump housing includes second fluid conduits configured to fluidly connect the pump outlets to the detergent outlets.

[0034] Preferably, the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are formed in the support element.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the pump housing includes a one-way discharge valve associated with the detergent outlet.

[0036] Preferably, these one-way discharge valves are check valves, which are configured to allow fluid to flow out from these detergent outlets when the volumetric metering pumps are operated to pump fluid.

[0037] Advantageously, the detergent dispenser housing includes venting activation components configured to activate venting channels disposed on the detergent dispenser.

[0038] These venting activation components are configured to establish a venting channel for the detergent cartridge during insertion into the detergent cartridge housing.

[0039] Once these ventilation channels are established, fluid communication can be achieved between the internal volume of the detergent dispenser and the external environment, so as to balance the pressure inside the detergent dispenser when these positive displacement pumps are running.

[0040] In this embodiment, the ventilation activation component is disposed on the support element.

[0041] In an embodiment, these venting activation components include piercing elements configured to activate a corresponding venting opening of the detergent cartridge by piercing a venting opening seal disposed in the detergent cartridge near its venting opening.

[0042] Preferably, the support element includes vent check valves configured to connect to the vent passages of the detergent dispenser and allow air to flow into the detergent dispenser through the vent passages while preventing detergent from leaking out of the detergent dispenser through these vent passages.

[0043] In one embodiment, when the door is in the closed position, the ventilation activation component is arranged above the detergent inlet.

[0044] In one embodiment, when the door is in the closed position, a ventilation activation member is formed in the upper region of the detergent dispenser housing, and a detergent inlet is formed in the lower region of the detergent dispenser housing.

[0045] Advantageously, the detergent dispenser housing includes a detergent dispenser retention mechanism configured to releasably retain the detergent dispenser in a suitable position inside the detergent dispenser housing.

[0046] In one embodiment, a detergent dispenser retention mechanism is formed in a support element.

[0047] In one embodiment, the detergent dispenser retention mechanism includes a movable member configured to form an engagement portion adapted to engage a corresponding portion of the detergent dispenser. The movable member is movable between a dispenser engagement position and a dispenser disengagement position. The detergent dispenser retention mechanism may include biasing elements configured to bias the movable member toward the dispenser engagement position. The movable member may be configured to be pushed toward the disengagement position by the detergent dispenser as it is being inserted into the detergent dispenser housing, and to automatically move back to the disengagement position by the action of these biasing elements once the detergent dispenser is fully inserted into the detergent dispenser housing.

[0048] Preferably, the detergent dispenser retaining mechanism is formed near one side of the detergent dispenser housing.

[0049] For example, when the door is in the closed position, the detergent dispenser retaining mechanism may be formed near the upper side of the detergent dispenser housing. Alternatively, the detergent dispenser retaining mechanism may be formed near the side of the detergent dispenser housing.

[0050] Preferably, a facilitating device is provided, which is configured to facilitate the removal of the detergent cartridge from the detergent cartridge housing.

[0051] The promoting device can be formed in and associated with the detergent dispenser housing.

[0052] In one embodiment, the facilitating device is formed in the support element.

[0053] In one embodiment, the actuating device includes a pushing member and a pushing member biasing element arranged to cause the pushing member to protrude from the rear wall of the detergent cartridge housing. The pushing member can be configured to push the detergent cartridge away from the rear wall of the detergent cartridge housing when the detergent cartridge is housed inside the detergent cartridge housing.

[0054] In one embodiment, at least one of these volumetric metering pumps is configured as a ready-to-use pump module, prepared for installation into the pump housing of the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly.

[0055] The pump module may include a pump support or a pump housing configured to support components of the pump module.

[0056] In one embodiment, the pump module includes a resiliently deformable tube having a first open end and a second open end.

[0057] The pump module includes a pump rotor equipped with pipe clamping members, particularly pipe clamping rollers. The pump rotor is rotatably supported by the pump support or housed in the pump housing in such a way that the pipe clamping members interact with the elastically deformable tube when the pump rotor rotates.

[0058] Preferably, the first connecting connector and the second connecting connector are formed in the pump support or pump housing, preferably as a single piece, and are configured to connect to the first open end and the second open end of the resiliently deformable tube, respectively.

[0059] The pump inlet and pump outlet can be formed in the pump support or pump housing.

[0060] In one embodiment, a first pump conduit fluidly connects the pump inlet to a first coupling connector, and a second pump conduit fluidly connects the second coupling connector to the pump outlet. The first and second pump conduits are preferably formed within the pump support or pump housing.

[0061] Preferably, the pump inlet and / or pump outlet and / or first pump pipe and / or second pump pipe are a single piece with the pump support or pump housing.

[0062] In one embodiment, the pump rotor includes at least two pipe clamping members spaced at an angle to each other.

[0063] In one embodiment, the pump module includes a pump motor configured to operate the pump module. The pump motor is mechanically coupled to a pump rotor and configured to drive the pump rotor to rotate.

[0064] In this embodiment, the motor control unit is operatively associated with the pump module. The motor control unit advantageously includes a rotary encoder in communication with it. The motor control unit is advantageously configured to control the pump motor based on instructions received from the rotary encoder.

[0065] A rotary encoder may include cams and electromechanical switches, which are associated with the pump rotor in a manner that rotates together with the pump rotor.

[0066] These cams may include a cam disc mounted on a motor shaft. The cam disc may have protrusions arranged circumferentially in sequence, which are configured to interact with an electromechanical switch so as to cause a change in the state of the electromechanical switch when the protrusions pass near the electromechanical switch as the cam disc rotates.

[0067] Preferably, the pump motor and rotary encoder are mounted to the pump support or pump housing of the pump module.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment, the pump housing includes piercing elements disposed at the detergent inlets, which are configured to pierce a pierceable portion of a seal disposed at the detergent outlet of the detergent cartridge when the detergent cartridge is inserted into the detergent cartridge housing, thereby establishing a fluid passage from the detergent cartridge to these detergent inlets.

[0069] Preferably, the piercing element is disposed on the support element.

[0070] In an embodiment, when the door is in the closed position, the piercing element disposed at the detergent inlet and the piercing element configured to activate the corresponding vent opening of the detergent cartridge are respectively formed in the lower and upper portions of the detergent cartridge housing.

[0071] In an embodiment, the guide member is configured to guide the detergent dispenser into / out of the detergent dispenser housing based on a combination of translational and rotational movement.

[0072] The combination of translational and rotational movements may include translational movement and subsequent rotational movement for insertion into the detergent cartridge housing, and may include rotational movement and subsequent translational movement for removal from the detergent cartridge housing.

[0073] In one embodiment, the rotational movement is achieved by first pivoting elements disposed within the detergent dispenser housing and configured to cooperate with second pivoting elements disposed on the detergent dispenser.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the inner door panel includes a panel opening. A support element is advantageously mounted to the inner door panel, matching the panel opening.

[0075] The inner door panel may include a profile that matches the perimeter of the washroom entrance opening and a recessed area defined by said profile. The panel opening where the support element is mounted is advantageously located within said recessed area of ​​the inner door panel.

[0076] According to another aspect of the present invention, an appliance for washing kitchen items is provided.

[0077] The appliance for washing kitchen items includes a cabinet. Inside the cabinet, a washing chamber is formed, which is configured to accommodate kitchen items to be washed. The washing chamber has an access opening for loading / unloading kitchen items.

[0078] A door is provided that can be movably mounted to the cabinet and is configured to selectively close the washroom entrance opening.

[0079] The door has a profile on its side facing the laundry room that matches the perimeter of the laundry room entrance opening and a recessed area defined by the profile.

[0080] The appliance for washing kitchen items includes a multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly mounted on the door.

[0081] The multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly includes a detergent cartridge housing configured to receive and accommodate an interchangeable multi-dose detergent cartridge configured to store detergent.

[0082] Advantageously, the detergent dispenser housing is recessed into the door relative to the recessed area of ​​the door.

[0083] Preferably, the detergent dispenser housing includes guide members configured to guide the detergent dispenser when inserted into / removed from the detergent dispenser housing.

[0084] The multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly includes detergent inlets configured to receive detergent from the detergent cartridge when the detergent cartridge is housed in the detergent cartridge housing.

[0085] The multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly includes detergent outlets configured to dispense detergent into the wash chamber.

[0086] Preferably, the detergent dispenser housing is configured to house the detergent dispenser substantially flush with the recessed area of ​​the door.

[0087] Suitably, the detergent dispenser housing includes a cavity that opens toward the wash chamber when the door is in the closed position. The detergent dispenser housing may have a rear wall. The rear wall of the detergent dispenser housing advantageously projects rearward away from the wash chamber from the recessed area of ​​the door.

[0088] In other words, as can be seen, for example, in the accompanying drawings, and especially inFigure 14 and Figure 15 (These figures relate to exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of the invention and will be discussed later in the description of exemplary embodiments of the invention.) As can be seen, the door is movably mounted (e.g., hinged) to the cabinet. The door can be opened to access the washroom, for example, to load kitchen items to be washed or to remove washed kitchen items. The door can be closed, for example, during a wash cycle to seal the washroom. To seal the washroom, the door has a profile that matches the perimeter of the washroom entrance opening: when the door is in the closed position, the door profile abuts against the perimeter of the washroom entrance opening and thus ensures a watertight seal. Suitably, the door has a recessed area on its side facing the washroom (when the door is in the closed position), defined and framed by the profile: providing the recessed area ensures more space inside the washroom (when the door is in the closed position) and allows for a larger size of shelves provided inside the washroom to support kitchen items to be washed.

[0089] A multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly is mounted on the door. Specifically, the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly is mounted on the side of the door facing the laundry compartment when the door is in the closed position. Specifically, the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly is mounted on the door in a recessed area.

[0090] The detergent dispenser assembly's detergent cartridge housing (designed to interchangeably accommodate multi-dose detergent cartridges (storing sufficient detergent / detergent components for multiple wash cycles)) is closed on one side by a rear wall. The rear wall of the detergent cartridge housing projects rearward from a recessed area of ​​the door, relative to the wash chamber (when the door is closed). In this way, the detergent cartridge housing is, or includes, a recessed space for accommodating the detergent cartridge, which is recessed relative to the recessed area of ​​the door. Therefore, the detergent cartridge, when accommodated in the detergent cartridge housing, protrudes slightly relative to the recessed area of ​​the door, or not at all (essentially flush).

[0091] In a preferred embodiment, the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly includes a support element. The detergent cartridge housing and its rear wall are preferably formed within the support element. The support element may include a perimeter frame surrounding the detergent cartridge housing.

[0092] Preferably, the support element is a single piece.

[0093] In one embodiment, the door includes an inner door panel that faces the laundry compartment when the door is in the closed position. The inner door panel may include the outline and the recessed area defined by the outline.

[0094] The support element is preferably installed in the recessed area of ​​the inner panel of the door.

[0095] Advantageously, when the door is in the closed position, the rear wall of the detergent dispenser housing protrudes away from the wash chamber from the recessed area of ​​the inner panel of the door.

[0096] In this embodiment, the support element is installed onto the inner panel of the door by means of a snap-fit ​​engagement.

[0097] For example, the inner door panel includes a panel opening located in the recessed area. A support element is mounted to the inner door panel and mates with the panel opening.

[0098] In one embodiment, the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly includes a pump housing configured to house a volumetric metering pump, preferably a peristaltic pump, configured and operable to pump a fixed amount of detergent.

[0099] These volumetric metering pumps are arranged between the detergent inlets and the detergent outlets to draw a fixed amount of detergent from the detergent cartridge housed in the detergent cartridge housing through the detergent inlets and to distribute the fixed amount of detergent into the washing chamber through the detergent outlets.

[0100] Preferably, the pump housing is closed by the pump housing wall on the side of the door facing the washing chamber when the door is in the closed position. The positive displacement metering pump housed in the pump housing is advantageously separated from the washing chamber by said pump housing wall.

[0101] In one embodiment, when the door is in the closed position, the pump housing wall protrudes toward the washing chamber relative to the recessed area of ​​the door.

[0102] In a preferred embodiment, the perimeter frame of the support element also surrounds the pump housing and the pump housing wall.

[0103] In a preferred embodiment, when the door is in the closed position, the positive displacement metering pump housed in the pump housing is arranged below the detergent dispenser housing.

[0104] In a preferred embodiment, the perimeter frame of the support element is arranged substantially flush with the inner panel of the door. The rear wall of the detergent dispenser housing advantageously projects away from the wash chamber from the perimeter frame of the support element. When the door is in the closed position, the pump housing wall preferably projects towards the wash chamber from the perimeter frame.

[0105] In an embodiment, the positive displacement metering pump includes a pump inlet and a pump outlet. Preferably, the pump housing includes first fluid conduits and second fluid conduits, the first fluid conduits being configured to fluidly connect the detergent inlets to the pump inlets, and the second fluid conduits being configured to fluidly connect the pump outlets to the detergent outlets.

[0106] Advantageously, these first and second fluid conduits are formed in the support element.

[0107] According to another aspect of the present invention, an appliance for washing kitchen items is provided.

[0108] The appliance used for washing kitchen items includes a cabinet.

[0109] Inside the cabinet, a washing room is formed, which is configured to accommodate kitchen items to be washed.

[0110] The washing room has a washing room entrance opening for loading / unloading kitchen items.

[0111] The door is movably mounted to the rack and configured to selectively close the washroom entrance opening.

[0112] The door includes a door panel that faces the laundry room when the door is in the closed position.

[0113] The inner panel of the door has a panel opening.

[0114] The appliance for washing kitchen items includes a multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly. This multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly is mounted on the door.

[0115] The multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly includes a support element that is mounted to the inner panel of the door in the panel opening.

[0116] The support element includes a detergent dispenser housing configured to receive and accommodate an interchangeable multi-dose detergent dispenser, which is configured to store an amount of detergent or detergent components sufficient for multiple wash cycles of kitchen items. Preferably, the detergent dispenser housing includes guide members configured to guide the detergent dispenser when inserted into / removed from the detergent dispenser housing.

[0117] The support elements include detergent inlets configured to receive detergent from the detergent dispenser when the detergent dispenser is housed within the detergent dispenser housing. The support elements also include detergent outlets configured to dispense detergent into the wash chamber.

[0118] The appliance for washing kitchen items includes a single-dose detergent dispenser configured to store an amount of detergent sufficient for a single cycle of washing kitchen items. The single-dose detergent dispenser is mounted to the support element.

[0119] In one embodiment, the support element includes an opening forming a seat for receiving a single-dose detergent dispenser.

[0120] In one embodiment, the opening in the single-dose detergent dispenser and the support element forming a seat for the single-dose detergent dispenser is configured to snap-fit ​​the single-dose detergent dispenser into the support element.

[0121] The inner panel of the door may include a profile that matches the perimeter of the entrance opening to the laundry room and a recessed area defined by the profile on the side of the door facing the laundry room when the door is in the closed position.

[0122] Advantageously, the panel opening is formed in the recessed area.

[0123] For example, the support element can be installed onto the inner panel of the door by means of a snap-fit ​​engagement.

[0124] In one embodiment, the multi-dosage detergent dispenser assembly includes a pump housing configured to house volumetric metering pumps, preferably peristaltic pumps, configured and operable to pump a predetermined amount of detergent. These volumetric metering pumps are arranged between detergent inlets and detergent outlets for obtaining a predetermined amount of detergent from a detergent cartridge housed within the detergent cartridge housing through the detergent inlets and dispensing the predetermined amount of detergent into the wash chamber through the detergent outlets.

[0125] In one embodiment, the support element includes a perimeter frame that surrounds the detergent cartridge housing, the pump housing, and the opening forming a seat for receiving a single-dose detergent dispenser.

[0126] For example, the opening that forms the seat for receiving a single-dose detergent dispenser is formed laterally in the support element of the pump housing.

[0127] Preferably, the support element is installed in the inner panel of the door, in a recessed area of ​​the inner panel.

[0128] Preferably, when the door is in the closed position, the rear wall of the detergent dispenser housing protrudes away from the washing chamber from the recessed area of ​​the inner panel of the door.

[0129] In a preferred embodiment, the pump housing is closed by the pump housing wall on the side of the door facing the washing chamber when the door is in the closed position.

[0130] When the door is in the closed position, the pump housing wall preferably protrudes toward the washing chamber relative to the recessed area of ​​the door.

[0131] Another aspect of the invention relates to a detergent dispenser for a device for washing kitchen items, the detergent dispenser being configured to store a certain amount of detergent or detergent component, the amount of which is sufficient for multiple washing cycles of kitchen items.

[0132] The detergent dispenser is configured to be inserted into a multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly for appliances used to wash kitchen items.

[0133] The detergent dispenser includes a detergent dispenser body that forms the detergent dispenser box.

[0134] Inside the detergent box, at least two detergent storage compartments are formed, which are configured to store corresponding amounts of corresponding detergent / detergent components.

[0135] The detergent dispenser includes at least two detergent outlets, each in fluid communication with a corresponding one of the detergent compartments. These detergent outlets are formed on a first side of the detergent dispenser.

[0136] The detergent dispenser is provided with activatable venting channels that can be activated to ventilate the detergent compartments. These activatable venting channels are formed on a second side of the detergent dispenser box, different from the first side of the detergent dispenser box.

[0137] In a preferred embodiment, when the detergent dispenser is inserted into the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly for washing kitchen items, the first side of the detergent dispenser is the lower side of the detergent dispenser. When the detergent dispenser is inserted into the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly, the second side of the detergent dispenser is the upper side of the detergent dispenser.

[0138] For example, the activatable vent openings are provided with releasable vent seals for releasably sealing these vent openings.

[0139] Releasable vent seals may include, for example, puncture-resistant sealing membranes.

[0140] In one embodiment, the punctureable sealing membrane is configured to be punctured by a puncture element located in the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly when the detergent cartridge is inserted into the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly.

[0141] Another aspect of the invention relates to a detergent dispenser for a device for washing kitchen items, the detergent dispenser being configured to store a certain amount of detergent or detergent component, the amount of which is sufficient for multiple washing cycles of kitchen items.

[0142] The detergent dispenser is configured to be inserted into a multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly for washing kitchen items, specifically into the detergent dispenser housing of the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly.

[0143] The detergent dispenser includes a detergent dispenser body that forms the detergent dispenser box.

[0144] Inside the detergent box, at least two detergent storage compartments are provided, which are configured to store corresponding amounts of the corresponding detergent / detergent components.

[0145] The detergent cartridge includes guide members configured to cooperate with guides disposed in the detergent cartridge housing of the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly to guide the detergent cartridge into / out of the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly.

[0146] In one embodiment, the guide member disposed in the detergent dispenser box includes at least one post protruding from one side of the detergent dispenser box.

[0147] For the purposes of this disclosure, terms such as “up,” “down,” “above,” “below,” “under,” “below,” and “above” should be considered relative to the appliance door appliance being in the closed position, unless otherwise stated or can be derived from the context in which such terms are used. Attached Figure Description

[0148] The above-described features and advantages of the invention, as well as other features and advantages, will become clearer from the following detailed description of exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of the invention. For a better understanding, the following description should be read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is an overall view of an appliance for washing kitchen items, particularly a household dishwasher, according to or which can be utilized according to the present invention; Figure 2 It was removed from the dishwasher. Figure 1 An axonometric view of the dishwasher door, as seen from the side facing the dishwasher's washing chamber when the door is installed in the dishwasher, showing that the door is equipped with a detergent dispensing device; Figure 3 Shown in the exploded isometric view Figure 2 The door; Figure 3A yes Figure 3 A magnified view of the details; Figure 4 and Figure 5 The multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly, detached from the dishwasher door, is shown in an isometric view, wherein each has ( Figure 4 ) and none ( Figure 5 The detergent dispenser is inserted into it; Figure 6 The intermediate steps of an insertion (or removal) operation for inserting (or removing) the detergent cartridge into (or from) the detergent cartridge housing of a multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly are shown. Figure 7An exemplary mechanism for securing the detergent cartridge within the detergent cartridge housing when it is inserted into the housing is shown in detail. Figure 8 and Figure 9 An exemplary device for facilitating the removal of the detergent cartridge from the detergent cartridge housing of a multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly is shown in detail. Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 Axonometric front view ( Figure 10 and Figure 11 ) and rear view ( Figure 12 The diagram shows the configuration for use with Figure 4 and Figure 5 An exemplary detergent cartridge used in conjunction with a multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly, the detergent cartridge being separated from the detergent cartridge housing of the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly; Figure 13 It shows Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 An exemplary internal structure of a detergent dispenser, wherein the detergent dispenser is inserted into the detergent dispenser housing of a multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly; Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly, in which the detergent cartridge is inserted, on two different parallel cross-sectional planes transverse to the dishwasher door; Figure 16 , Figure 17 and Figure 18 Details of the vent connectors for the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly are shown; these vent connectors are used to create venting paths for the detergent cartridge. Figure 19 The rear of the inner panel of the dishwasher door is shown; Figure 20 Shown in the magnified view Figure 19 Details of the rear of the door's inner panel in the area where the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly is installed; Figures 21 to 24 Various views of the peristaltic pump module arranged for delivering a fixed amount of detergent in a multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly are shown. Figure 25 and Figure 26 This is an exploded view of the components that make up the peristaltic pump module, as seen from opposite sides; Figure 27 This is a rear view of the support elements of the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly, showing the seat for the peristaltic pump module and the corresponding mechanical and hydraulic connections for the peristaltic pump module; Figure 28 and Figure 29 Another embodiment of a multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly designed for different detergent cartridge insertion methods is shown; Figures 30 to 33 It shows that it is suitable for use with Figure 28 and Figure 29 A detergent cartridge used in conjunction with a multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly; Figure 34 An exemplary placement of the detergent dispenser in a dishwasher is shown, and Figures 35 to 38 Another embodiment of the invention is shown, in which a multi-dose detergent dispenser and a single-dose detergent dispenser are integrated together in a single component. Detailed Implementation

[0149] A detailed description of specific embodiments of the invention will be provided with reference to certain illustrative and non-limiting descriptions. However, the invention is not limited to the described embodiments and descriptions, which should be considered purely exemplary; the appended claims define the scope of the invention.

[0150] In the accompanying drawings, for illustrative purposes, the sizes of some elements may be exaggerated and not drawn to scale. The dimensions of the portions shown may not correspond to actual embodiments of the invention.

[0151] Furthermore, when terms such as "first" and "second" are used in the specification and claims, these terms are used to distinguish similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe order, whether chronological, spatial, ranking, or any other order. It should be understood that such terms are interchangeable where appropriate, and the embodiments of the invention described herein can operate in an order different from that described or shown herein.

[0152] Furthermore, terms such as “above,” “below,” “on the right,” “on the left,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “upper,” and “lower” used in the specification and claims are for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing relative positions. It should be understood that such terms are interchangeable where appropriate, and the embodiments of the invention described herein can operate in orientations other than those described or shown herein.

[0153] It should be noted that the term "comprising" as used in the claims should not be construed as limited to the elements or steps listed thereafter; the use of this term does not exclude other elements or stages. Therefore, the term "comprising" should be interpreted as indicating the presence of the aforementioned features, integers, stages, or components as indicated, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, stages, or components, or groups thereof. Thus, and by way of example, the scope of the expression "an apparatus comprising devices A and B" should not be limited to an apparatus consisting solely of components A and B, but rather means that, with respect to the invention, the only relevant components of the apparatus are A and B.

[0154] In this specification, the term "embodiment" (and similar plural expressions) means that a particular feature or structure described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Therefore, the phrase "in one embodiment" appearing in different places in this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but may refer to different embodiments of the invention.

[0155] Furthermore, the specific features or structures described may be combined in any suitable manner to form one or more possible embodiments of the present invention, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this specification.

[0156] Similarly, it should be understood that, in describing exemplary embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, drawing, or description therein for the purpose of simplifying the description and aiding in the understanding of one or more aspects of the invention. However, this should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly stated in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the claims at the end of the detailed description, these aspects of the invention include fewer features than all the features of the single embodiment described above. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are expressly incorporated into this detailed description, wherein each claim constitutes a different embodiment of the invention.

[0157] Furthermore, although some embodiments described herein include some features included in other embodiments but not others, combinations of features from different embodiments should be considered to fall within the scope of this specification and the invention and form different embodiments, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, any of the claimed embodiments in the following claims can be used in any combination.

[0158] In the specific embodiments provided herein, numerous specific details are disclosed. However, it should be understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without all or some of these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this disclosure.

[0159] Refer to the attached diagram. Figure 1 A general view of an appliance for washing kitchen items 100, particularly a household dishwasher, according to or which can utilize the invention, is shown. Generally, the dishwasher 100 includes a cabinet 105 enclosing a washing chamber 110 configured to accommodate at least one, preferably two or more, vertically spaced shelves 115 for accommodating kitchen items to be washed (examples only: tableware such as plates, dishes, cups, glasses, etc.; cutlery; food cooking items such as pots, pans). In the example considered herein, three shelves 115 are slidably accommodated in the washing chamber 110 and slidable in and out of the washing chamber 110: a lower shelf 115a typically near the bottom of the washing chamber 110, an upper shelf 115b typically in the upper portion of the washing chamber 110, and a third shelf 115c near the top of the washing chamber 110. The specific number of shelves 115 is not limiting to the invention, which is applicable to dishwashers having fewer than or more than three shelves 115. Inside the washing chamber 110, there is a spraying device 120 for spraying washing liquid. The washing chamber 110 can be accessed through a front opening or a washing chamber access opening, which can be closed by a door 125 pivotally mounted to the cabinet 105.

[0160] The dishwasher 100 includes a detergent dispensing device. In an embodiment of the invention, the detergent dispensing device 130 is located on the door 125, preferably, when the door 125 is in the closed position, the detergent dispensing device 130 is supported by the door 125 on the side of the door 125 facing the washing chamber 110; this makes the detergent dispensing device 130 easily accessible to the user.

[0161] In the exemplary embodiments considered herein, the detergent dispensing device 130 includes a conventional single-dose detergent dispenser 135 and a multi-dose detergent dispenser 140. The single-dose detergent dispenser 135 is sized such that the amount of detergent required for a single wash cycle can be poured into it (or a detergent pod for a single wash cycle can be inserted into the single-dose detergent dispenser 135), and the detergent is dispensed in a single cycle. The multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 is a detergent dispensing device configured to dispense a fixed amount of detergent taken from a detergent storage device during a wash cycle, the detergent storage device being configured to hold a larger amount of detergent than required for a single wash cycle. In embodiments of the invention, the single-dose detergent dispenser 135 may be absent.

[0162] Figure 2 It was removed from the dishwasher. Figure 1 An isometric view of the door 125 of the dishwasher 100, as seen from the side facing the washing chamber 110 when the door 125 is installed into the dishwasher cabinet 105. Figure 3 Shown in the exploded isometric view Figure 2 The door. Figure 3A yes Figure 3 A magnified view of the details.

[0163] Door 125 includes an inner door panel 201 arranged to face the washing chamber 110 when door 125 is installed in the dishwasher 100 (and in a closed, nearly closed, or partially closed position). The inner door panel 201 may be made of a bent sheet of metal.

[0164] The inner door panel 201 is mounted to the door frame 203 of the door 125. The door frame 203 is provided with means (typically via a door hinge, not shown) for pivotally connecting the door frame 203 to the cabinet 105.

[0165] The inner door panel 201 is provided with an opening 301. Preferably, the opening 301 is formed in a recessed area 305 of the inner door panel 201, which is recessed relative to the protruding profile 307 of the inner door panel 201. The profile 307 of the inner door panel 301 is configured to match the perimeter of the washroom entrance opening. The recessed area 305 of the inner door panel 201 is defined by the protruding profile 307.

[0166] The opening 301 in the inner panel 201 of the door has, for example, a general quadrilateral shape. The specific shape of the opening 301 is not limiting for the present invention.

[0167] An opening 301 in the door interior panel 201 is configured to receive, accommodate, and retain a multi-dose detergent dispenser 140. The multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 mates with the opening 301. A single-dose detergent dispenser 135 is mounted laterally to the door interior panel 201, for example, relative to the opening 301; however, different placements of the single-dose detergent dispenser 135 relative to the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 are possible (e.g., below the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 when the door 125 is in a closed or partially closed position).

[0168] In an embodiment of the invention, the opening 301 is provided with one or more wings 303 that project from the periphery of the opening 301 toward the door frame 203 (i.e., protruding away from the washing chamber 110 when the door 125 is installed in the cabinet 105). In an embodiment of the invention, the one or more wings 301 include two or more wings 301 that are spaced apart from each other along at least one side of the opening 301, preferably along at least two sides of the opening 301, preferably on opposite sides, and preferably along at least three sides of the opening 301. In an embodiment of the invention, the opening 301 includes a plurality of wings 303 that are spaced apart from each other along the entire periphery of the opening 301.

[0169] In embodiments of the invention, the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 is a component. In embodiments of the invention, the component of the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 includes a support element 309. The support element 309 may be made of, for example, a plastic material, particularly as a single piece. Specifically, the support element 309 may be produced by molding. However, the specific material and manufacturing method of the support element 309 are not limiting to the invention.

[0170] In an embodiment of the invention, the support element 309 is configured to be fitted into and inserted into an opening 301 formed in the inner panel 201 of the door, and is received and secured in the opening. For example, the support element 309 has a shape that is generally complementary to the shape of the opening 301.

[0171] In an embodiment of the invention, the support element 309 is provided with at least one tab 311 protruding from the front of the perimeter frame 313 of the support element 309 (the front 313 of the support element 309 is the side facing the washing chamber 110 when the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly is installed in the door inner panel 201, i.e., when the support element 309 is inserted into the opening 301 and the door 125 is in the closed or partially closed position) toward the rear of the support element 309.

[0172] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one tab 311 is configured to define a hook 315 at its free end. Figure 3A This is more clearly visible. In other words, the at least one tab 311 has a hook-shaped free end. The hook 315 of the at least one tab 311 is configured to cooperate with a corresponding wing of the one or more wings 303 of the opening 301 when the support element 309 is inserted into the opening 301, to secure the support element 309 in place and install it onto the inner door panel 201. In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one tab 311 is to some extent flexible, and when the support element 309 is inserted into the opening 301, the at least one tab 311 flexes, passes over the corresponding wing 303 of the opening 301, and then flexes back, such that the hook 315 engages with the free end of the corresponding wing 303.

[0173] In an embodiment of the invention, two or more tabs 311 are spaced apart from each other along the perimeter of the support member 309. When two or more wings 303 are provided along the perimeter of the opening 301, the number of the two or more tabs 311 may correspond to the number of wings 303, and the arrangement of the tabs 311 advantageously matches the arrangement of the wings 303.

[0174] Due to the cooperation between the wing 303 of the opening 301 and the tab 311 of the support element 309, the support element 309 (and therefore the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly) can be installed onto the inner door panel 201 via a snap-fit ​​engagement. The peripheral frame 313 of the support element 309 forms a flange that overlaps with the peripheral zone of the inner door panel 201 surrounding the opening 301 when the support element 309 is installed onto the inner door panel 201. Preferably, a gasket is provided between the peripheral frame 313 of the support element 309 and the peripheral zone of the inner door panel 201 to ensure a leak-proof seal.

[0175] In embodiments of the invention, nothing prevents the use of different / other methods of mounting the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly to the door interior panel 201, whether attached to or replacing the snap-fit ​​engagement. For example, in embodiments of the invention, in addition to snap-fit ​​engagement devices (e.g., tabs 311 and wings 313), one or more screws or similar fastening devices may be used to secure the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly to the door interior panel 201 for a more robust fixation. For example, the points for securing the screws may be located at one or more corners of the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly, such as at the two upper corners of the support element 309, or at one of the two upper corners, and at the diagonally opposite lower corner.

[0176] When the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 is installed on the door 125, the perimeter frame 313 of the support element 309 is substantially flush with the recessed area 305 of the inner door panel 201.

[0177] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly, detached from the machine door (inner door panel 201), is shown in an isometric view. Specifically, Figure 4 A multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly with an interchangeable detergent cartridge 401 inserted and housed therein is shown, and Figure 5 The multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly without the detergent cartridge 401 inserted is shown.

[0178] The shape of the support element 309 of the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly is defined to define a housing 501 for interchangeably accommodating the detergent cartridge 401 (an exemplary embodiment of the detergent cartridge will be described in detail later). The detergent cartridge housing 501 has a shape that is generally complementary to the shape of the detergent cartridge 401 to be housed therein.

[0179] In the exemplary embodiment of the invention shown, the detergent dispenser housing 501 includes a recessed portion of a support element 309 that is recessed relative to the peripheral flange 403 of the support element 309 (defined by the peripheral frame 313 of the support element) and defines a cavity that opens toward the wash chamber 110 when the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly is mounted to the door inner panel 201 and the door 125 is in the closed or partially closed position.

[0180] The detergent dispenser housing 501 has a rear wall 503, two opposing side walls 505, an upper wall 507, and a lower wall 509.

[0181] When the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly is mounted on the inner door panel 201, the peripheral flange 403 of the support element 309 is substantially flush with the recessed area 305 of the inner door panel 201, while the detergent dispenser housing 501 is recessed relative to the recessed area 305 of the inner door panel 201 (away from the wash chamber 110) (because the detergent dispenser housing 501 protrudes rearward through the opening 301 in the inner door panel 201). Advantageously, the dimensions of the detergent dispenser 401 can be determined such that when housed within the detergent dispenser housing 501, the detergent dispenser 401 does not protrude from the detergent dispenser housing 501 and is substantially flush with the recessed area 305 of the inner door panel 201, so that the detergent dispenser 401 does not occupy space in the wash chamber 110.

[0182] In an embodiment of the invention, at least one of the two sidewalls 505, preferably both sidewalls, is provided with a guide 511 for guiding the detergent cartridge 401 during insertion into / removal from the detergent cartridge housing 501.

[0183] In an embodiment of the invention, the detergent cartridge insertion / removal guide 511 is in the form of an inclined slot, which is inclined at a certain angle relative to a direction orthogonal to the plane of the rear wall 503 of the detergent cartridge housing 501, for example, in the range of 85° to 5°, preferably in the range of 30° to 10°.

[0184] The detergent dispenser insertion / removal guide 511 is open at its upper end and closed at its opposite lower end (upper and lower are relative to the closed or partially closed position of the door 125). Approximately midway from the open upper end to the closed lower end, an inclined slot forming the detergent dispenser insertion / removal guide 511 forms a guide branch slot 515 toward the rear wall 503 of the detergent dispenser housing 501, which is oriented, for example, orthogonally to the rear wall 503. At its closed lower end, the inclined slot forming the detergent dispenser insertion / removal guide 511 has an enlargement 513 toward the rear wall 503. The inclined slot 511, guide branch slot 515, and enlargement 513 are configured to cooperate with corresponding guide members provided in the detergent dispenser 401, as will be described later. In particular, the enlargement 513 forms a pivoting device for pivoting the detergent dispenser 401, or is part of such a pivoting device.

[0185] The manipulation of inserting and removing the detergent dispenser from the detergent dispenser housing 501 requires translational and rotational movement of the detergent dispenser 401. Specifically, inserting the detergent dispenser into the detergent dispenser housing 501 requires translation followed by rotational movement. Removing the detergent dispenser from the detergent dispenser housing 501 requires rotation followed by translational movement.

[0186] The multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly, particularly the support element 309, is provided with a hydraulic connector 517 for connecting to a corresponding detergent outlet of the detergent cartridge 401 when it is housed within the detergent cartridge housing 501. The hydraulic connector 517 defines a detergent inlet for the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly. The multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly, particularly the support element 309, includes a detergent outlet for dispensing detergent / detergent components into the wash chamber 110.

[0187] In an embodiment of the invention, a hydraulic connector 517 is disposed on the lower wall 509 of the detergent dispenser housing 501. In the embodiment contemplated herein, the hydraulic connector 517 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the lower wall 509 of the detergent dispenser housing 501, i.e., oriented along a direction in a plane parallel to the plane of the inner door panel 201.

[0188] In embodiments of the present invention, the number of hydraulic connectors 517 disposed in the detergent cartridge housing 501 corresponds to the number of detergent storage compartments disposed in the detergent cartridge 401 and the number of corresponding detergent outlets of the detergent cartridge 401. In embodiments of the present invention, the detergent cartridge housing 501 is provided with at least two hydraulic connectors 517 for hydraulic connection to two detergent outlets of the detergent cartridge 401, which enter two different detergent storage compartments of the detergent cartridge 401 for storing detergent (or detergent components to be mixed to obtain detergent). In embodiments of the present invention, the detergent cartridge 401 has four different detergent storage compartments for storing detergent (or detergent components), four corresponding detergent outlets entering these four detergent storage compartments, and four hydraulic connectors 517.

[0189] In an embodiment of the invention, the support element 309 is provided with a detergent box retention mechanism 519, which is configured to retain the detergent box 401 in the detergent box housing 501 when the detergent box 401 is housed in the detergent box housing 501.

[0190] The detergent cartridge retaining mechanism 519 is located on the opposite side of the detergent cartridge housing 501 from the side of the rotation axis that defines the rotational portion for inserting the detergent cartridge 401 into the detergent cartridge housing 501.

[0191] In an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 7 The detergent dispenser retaining mechanism 519, as seen in detail, includes a movable member 701, particularly a sliding member, the shape of which is defined by a peak or ridge 703. The sliding member 701 is vertically slidable relative to the rear wall 503 of the detergent dispenser housing 501 (when the door 125 is in the closed position). The peak or ridge 703 of the sliding member 701 is configured to cooperate with a box protrusion 705 of the detergent dispenser 401 such that when the detergent dispenser 401 is housed within the detergent dispenser housing 501, the box protrusion 705 is behind and abuts against the peak or ridge 703. The box protrusion 705 is preferably formed in a recess 601 of the detergent dispenser 401. The protrusion 705 is preferably formed near the rear side of the detergent dispenser 401 (the rear side of the detergent dispenser 401 is the side opposite to the detergent dispenser side facing the wash chamber 110 when the detergent dispenser 401 is inserted into the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140).

[0192] The detergent dispenser retention mechanism 519 includes biasing elements 707 for biasing the sliding member 701 toward a (in the considered example, protruding, lowered) position that engages the peak or ridge 703 with the dispenser protrusion 705 (when the detergent dispenser 401 is inserted into the detergent dispenser housing 401). For example, the biasing element 707 is an elastic biasing element, such as a spring.

[0193] The sliding member 701 can be operated by a user, for example with the aid of a finger or tool, to push the sliding member toward a position where its peak or ridge 703 is disengaged from the cartridge protrusion 705 (in the considered embodiment, raised) (overcoming the biasing effect of the biasing device 707). When the sliding member 701 is pushed upward, the peak or ridge 703 disengages from the cartridge protrusion 705, and the detergent cartridge 401 is no longer secured in the detergent cartridge housing 501 and is freely removed from the detergent cartridge housing 501.

[0194] During the insertion of the detergent dispenser 401 into the detergent dispenser housing 501 (particularly during the rotational portion of the insertion operation of the detergent dispenser 401), pushing the detergent dispenser 401, particularly its upper region, causes the dispenser protrusion 705 to encounter the inclined wall 709 of the sliding member 701. The user's pushing action on the detergent dispenser 401 causes the dispenser protrusion 705 to push the sliding member 701 upward against the elastic force of the biasing device 707 until the dispenser protrusion 705 passes the peak or ridge 703, and the sliding member 701 is pushed downward by the biasing device 707 into the fixed position of the detergent dispenser 401, thereby engaging the dispenser protrusion 705 and securing the detergent dispenser 401.

[0195] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the support element 309 is provided with a promoting device 521 for promoting the removal of the detergent box 401 from the detergent box housing 501.

[0196] The facilitator 521 is disposed on the side opposite to the axis of rotation of the detergent cartridge housing 501 that defines the rotating portion for inserting the detergent cartridge 401 into the detergent cartridge housing 501.

[0197] In an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 5 Visible in and Figure 8 and Figure 9The facilitating device 521 for facilitating the removal of the detergent dispenser 401, shown in more detail, includes a pushing member or actuator 801 that is slidable in a pushing member seat 803 formed in the support member 309, particularly in the rear wall 503 of the detergent dispenser housing 501. The pushing member 801 can slide within the pushing member seat 803 in a direction generally transverse to the plane of the rear wall 503 of the detergent dispenser housing 501 (e.g., orthogonal to the rear wall 503). The pushing member 801 can slide from... Figure 9 The retraction position shown slides to Figure 8 The extended position is shown. In the retracted position, the push member 801 is substantially entirely within the push member seat 803. In the extended position, the push member 801 protrudes from the push member seat 803 inside the detergent dispenser housing 501. The push member 801 has an enlarged head 805, which is larger than both the body of the push member 801 and the push member seat 803. When the push member 801 is fully retracted, this head abuts against the edge of the push member seat 803, thereby defining a first end point of the push member 801's stroke. A second end point of the push member 801's stroke is defined by the cooperation of teeth 901 formed in the push member 801, which protrude from the body of the push member 801 and extend through a slot 903 formed in the push member seat 803. When the push member 801 reaches the position of being fully extended from the push member seat 803, the teeth 901 abut against the edge of the slot 903 and stop the push member 801 from extending further.

[0198] The push member 801 is associated with push member biasing elements 905, which are arranged to bias the push member 801 toward an extended position of the push member extending from the push member seat 803. The push member biasing device 905 may, for example, include a compression spring. For example, the push member 801 may be hollow, and the compression spring may be accommodated in the hollow space inside the push member 801.

[0199] In one embodiment, the pusher seat 803 protrudes from the rear wall 503 of the detergent dispenser housing 501. Preferably, the detergent dispenser 401 has a recessed notch region 1203 on its rear side, which is configured to receive the pusher seat 803 therein.

[0200] When the detergent dispenser 401 is inserted into the detergent dispenser housing 501, at a certain stage, the rear wall portion 907 of the detergent dispenser 401 (the recessed area 1203) reaches the end of the push member 801 protruding into the detergent dispenser housing 501, particularly the enlarged head 805 of the push member 801. During the insertion of the detergent dispenser 401 into the detergent dispenser housing 501, the rear wall portion 907 of the detergent dispenser 401 pushes the push member 801 into the push member seat 803 against the action of the push member biasing device 905. The push member 801 retracts into the push member seat 803. When the detergent cartridge 401 is fully inserted into the detergent cartridge housing 501 (and held in the inserted position, for example, by the aforementioned detergent cartridge retaining mechanism 519), the pushing member 801 reaches its first stroke end point. The end of the pushing member 801, particularly its enlarged head 805, continues to exert a pushing effect on the rear wall portion 907 of the detergent cartridge 401 due to the pushing action of the pushing member biasing device 905. However, this pushing action of the pushing member 801 on the detergent cartridge 401 is overcome by the retaining action of the detergent cartridge retaining mechanism 519 on the detergent cartridge 401, as described above.

[0201] When the user acts on the detergent dispenser retaining mechanism 519 as described above in order to remove the detergent dispenser 401 from the detergent dispenser housing 501, the pushing action of the pushing member biasing device 905 causes the pushing member 801 to push against the rear wall portion 907 of the detergent dispenser 401. This causes the detergent dispenser 401 (no longer retained by the detergent dispenser retaining mechanism 519) to be at least partially pushed away from the rear wall 503 of the detergent dispenser housing 501, rotated, and positioned to meet the... Figure 6 The position shown roughly corresponds to the position where the detergent dispenser 401 is in this position, making it easy for the user to remove the detergent dispenser 401 from the detergent dispenser housing 501, because at least a portion of the upper and side sides of the detergent dispenser 401 are exposed and accessible to the user's hand.

[0202] Preferably, in an embodiment of the invention, the support element 309 includes a detergent cartridge 401 detection device configured to detect the presence of a detergent cartridge housed in the detergent cartridge housing 501.

[0203] In embodiments of the invention, the detergent dispenser detection arrangement includes a dispenser presence sensor (e.g., a microswitch or reed contact sensor) associated with the push member 801, for changing its state based on whether the push member 801 is in an extended position (no detergent dispenser in the detergent dispenser housing 501) or a retracted position (detergent dispenser inserted into the detergent dispenser housing 501). The dispenser presence sensor can communicate with a dishwasher control unit (not shown in the figures). The dishwasher control unit can be configured to read the state of the dispenser presence sensor and control the operation of the dishwasher accordingly based on whether the detergent dispenser 401 is detected in the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140. For example, if the detergent dispenser 401 is not detected, the control unit can prevent the start of the wash cycle and may (e.g., visually, audibly, or via a notification sent through a smartphone app) inform the user that the detergent dispenser needs to be inserted.

[0204] Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 Axonometric front view ( Figure 10 and Figure 11 ) and rear view ( Figure 12 An exemplary detergent cartridge 401 is shown removed from the detergent cartridge housing 501 of the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly.

[0205] In an embodiment of the invention, the detergent box 401 is generally box-shaped, for example, a generally rectangular box, which has a front side 1001, a rear side 1201, a top side 1003, a bottom side 1005, and two side sides 1007.

[0206] Multiple detergent compartments are defined in detergent dispenser 401 for storing a certain amount of detergent or detergent components that, once mixed in an appropriate proportion, produce detergent for use by dishwasher 100 (in an appropriate dose) during a wash cycle. The dimensions of the detergent storage compartments are determined to be able to store a larger amount of detergent or detergent components than is required for a single wash cycle, so as to be sufficient for multiple wash cycles.

[0207] As in Figure 11 It can be seen, and even better in Figure 13As can be seen in the figure (which shows the internal structure of an exemplary detergent dispenser 401 when it is inserted into the detergent dispenser housing 501; the front wall of the box forming the detergent dispenser 401 (which defines its front side 1001) has been removed in the figure to make the internal structure of the detergent dispenser visible), in the exemplary embodiment considered herein, the detergent dispenser 401 includes four detergent compartments 1301, 1303, 1305, and 1307. The specific number of detergent compartments is not a limitation of the invention: detergent dispensers with different numbers of detergent compartments (e.g., two, three, or more than four compartments) are possible.

[0208] In an exemplary embodiment of the four detergent compartments 1301, 1303, 1305, and 1307, the first detergent compartment (e.g., detergent compartment 1301) has a volume suitable for storing a first detergent / detergent component in an amount from 80 ml to 120 ml; the second detergent compartment (e.g., detergent compartment 1303) has a volume suitable for storing a second detergent / detergent component in an amount from 50 ml to 80 ml; the third detergent compartment (e.g., detergent compartment 1305) has a volume suitable for storing a third detergent / detergent component in an amount from 240 ml to 280 ml; and the fourth detergent compartment (e.g., detergent compartment 1307) has a volume suitable for storing a fourth detergent / detergent component in an amount from 50 ml to 100 ml. It should be noted that the amounts provided above are merely exemplary and not limiting, indicating the useful amount of detergent that can be stored in the detergent compartments (not the volume of the detergent compartments themselves).

[0209] Different, separate detergent compartments, such as four detergent compartments 1301, 1303, 1305, and 1307, are provided in the detergent dispenser 401 to store detergent / detergent components (e.g., alkaline chemicals involved in washing, such as enzymes, surfactants, and alkalis) and keep them separated in a non-agglomerated manner. This is primarily to avoid thermal degradation of the components, which may lose their performance when exposed to thermal cycling while being combined into a liquid mixture. In practice, to achieve automatic dispensing for multiple consecutive cycles without refilling the detergent, the common practice is to place the liquid detergent in an in-door dispenser; a drawback of this solution is that cleaning performance deteriorates cycle by cycle. This drawback is avoided by storing the detergent in a non-agglomerated manner, i.e., the basic components of the detergent remain separate and do not interact with each other until they are released into the washing chamber.

[0210] Detergent compartments 1301, 1303, 1305, and 1307 are defined, for example, in the hollow space inside the detergent dispenser 401 by diaphragms 1309, 1311, and 1313, which divide the hollow space inside the detergent dispenser 401 into four distinct, non-connected volumes. In the exemplary embodiment considered herein, the detergent compartments 1301, 1303, 1305, and 1307 are generally arranged sequentially along a direction transverse to the lateral side 1007 of the detergent dispenser 401.

[0211] As previously described, the detergent dispenser 401 is provided with detergent outlets, preferably at least one detergent outlet associated with each detergent compartment 1301, 1303, 1305, and 1307. In the exemplary embodiment currently contemplated, the detergent dispenser 401 has four detergent outlets 1009, 1011, 1013, and 1015 for the detergent compartments 1301, 1303, 1305, and 1307, respectively.

[0212] Advantageously, corresponding to each detergent outlet 1009, 1011, 1013, and 1015, the detergent dispenser 401 is provided with a collar protruding from the lower side 1005 of the detergent dispenser 401. One of the protruding collars is located in... Figure 14 More clearly visible in the image, there is a label 1401. The protruding collars 1401 of the detergent outlets 1009, 1011, 1013, and 1015 of the detergent cartridge 401 facilitate engagement with the hydraulic connector 517 of the support element 309: simply inserting the protruding collars 1401 into the corresponding hydraulic connectors 517 is sufficient. Preferably, a sealing device (e.g., a gasket) is provided around each collar to improve the leak-proof seal of the connection with the hydraulic connector 517. Figure 14 In the image, the washer is visible and is marked as 1403.

[0213] In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the detergent dispenser 401 can be made of plastic material and formed, for example, by molding. The detergent dispenser 401 can be manufactured as two separate parts: a body without the wall forming the front side 1001, and a wall forming the front side 1101, and the two parts can then be joined together by welding (e.g., vibration welding) or gluing.

[0214] In an embodiment, the support element 309 may be equipped with a cover for selectively closing the detergent dispenser housing 501 from the front. For example, the cover may be hinged to one side of the detergent dispenser housing 501. Having a cover for closing the detergent dispenser housing 501 from the front can advantageously prevent the detergent dispenser 401 from being exposed to the relatively harsh environment inside the washing chamber (typically relatively high temperatures, humidity, water, grease, and dirt) and protect it from such conditions when the dishwasher is performing a wash cycle.

[0215] At least one of the two lateral sides 1007 of the detergent cartridge 401, preferably both lateral sides 1007, is provided with guide elements configured to cooperate with detergent cartridge insertion / removal guides 511 provided on one of the side walls 505 of the detergent cartridge housing 501, preferably both side walls, to guide the detergent cartridge during insertion into and removal from the detergent cartridge housing 501.

[0216] In the exemplary embodiment considered herein, the guiding elements disposed on the detergent dispenser 401 include guide posts 1017, such as two guide posts 1017, 1019 on each lateral side 1007 of the detergent dispenser 401, these guide posts being spaced apart from each other along the respective lateral side 1007, thus having an upper guide post 1017 closer to the upper side 1003 of the detergent dispenser and a lower guide post 1019 closer to the lower side 1005 of the detergent dispenser. The size of the guide posts 1017, 1019 approximately corresponds to the size of the inclined slot defining the detergent dispenser insertion / removal guide 511 disposed in the detergent dispenser housing 501.

[0217] To insert the detergent dispenser 401 into the detergent dispenser housing 501, the user (after at least partially opening the dishwasher door 125) brings the detergent dispenser 401 close to the detergent dispenser housing 501. Then, while keeping the detergent dispenser 401 slightly tilted, the user inserts two lower guide posts 1019 on the two lateral sides 1007 of the detergent dispenser 401 into the open ends of the inclined slots formed by the detergent dispenser insertion / removal guides 511 provided on the two side walls 505 of the detergent dispenser housing 501. Once the two lower guide posts 1019 have been inserted into the inclined slots, the user slides the detergent dispenser 401 downwards under the guidance of the guides 511. When the lower guide post 1019 reaches the bottom of the inclined slot at the enlargement 513, the lower guide post 1019 is rotatably accommodated in the enlargement 513 and acts as a pivot pin for the rotation of the detergent dispenser 401; the enlargement 513 and the lower guide post 1019 each form a pivoting device that allows the detergent dispenser 401 to pivot. The user pushes the front side 1001 of the detergent dispenser 401, causing it to rotate clockwise about the axis of rotation defined by the lower guide post 1019. The upper guide post 1017 enters the guide branch slot 515. The user continues to press the detergent dispenser 401 until a "click" indicates that the detergent dispenser retaining mechanism 519 has been activated and the detergent dispenser 401 is securely accommodated in the detergent dispenser housing 501.

[0218] Removing the detergent cartridge 401 from the detergent cartridge housing 501 follows the reverse sequence. The user first releases the detergent cartridge 401 by acting on the detergent cartridge retaining mechanism 519, as described above. The actuating device 521 pushes the detergent cartridge 401 slightly forward, causing the detergent cartridge 401 to slightly separate from the rear wall 503 of the detergent cartridge housing 501. The user can now grasp the detergent cartridge 401 and rotate it counterclockwise, then pull the detergent cartridge 401 upward, causing the guide posts 1017, 1010 to slide upward along the inclined slot of the detergent cartridge insertion / removal guide 511.

[0219] Please see Figure 12 and Figure 13 It is understood that the rear wall portion 907 of the detergent dispenser 401 (which contacts the end 805 of the push member 801 when the detergent dispenser is inserted into the detergent dispenser housing 501) is formed in a recessed recessed area 1203 in the wall defining the rear side 1201 of the detergent dispenser 401. The dimensions of the recessed area 1203 are determined to accommodate the push member seat 803 protruding into the detergent dispenser housing 501. In this way, when the detergent dispenser 401 is fully inserted into the detergent dispenser seat 501, the rear wall of the detergent dispenser 401 is substantially adjacent to, close to (e.g., when the detergent dispenser 401 is fully inserted into the detergent dispenser seat 501). Figure 9 (As can be seen in the image). This is advantageous in order to reduce obstacles.

[0220] Preferably, in embodiments of the invention, each detergent outlet of the detergent cartridge 401 (e.g., four detergent outlets 1009, 1011, 1013, and 1015 in the currently considered embodiment) is provided with an associated sealing element for preventing detergent leakage stored in the detergent compartments 1301, 1303, 1305, and 1307, at least before the detergent cartridge 401 is inserted into the detergent cartridge housing 501. In embodiments of the invention, the sealing elements sealing the detergent outlets 1009, 1011, 1013, and 1015 include puncture-resistant portions of the seal, such as puncture-resistant membranes, which are punctured by puncture elements 807 disposed at the hydraulic connector 517 of the support element 309.

[0221] In this embodiment, the hydraulic connector 517 and the associated piercing element 807 are generally orthogonal to the (final) translational portion of the insertion movement of the detergent cartridge into the detergent cartridge housing 501.

[0222] One of the puncture elements 807 in Figure 14As can be better seen in the figure, this is a cross-sectional view on a cross-sectional plane at the midpoint of one of the detergent outlets 1009, 1011, 1013, and 1015 (e.g., detergent outlet 1011) of the detergent dispenser 140 into which the detergent cartridge 401 is inserted. This view is orthogonal to the inner door panel 201 and passes through the detergent cartridge 401. Figure 14 Also visible are a collar 1401 associated with the detergent outlet 1011 and a washer 1403 disposed at the collar 1401. In the currently considered exemplary embodiment, the piercing elements 807 are sharp pins that are substantially disposed in the middle of the hydraulic connector 517 and project upward toward the opening of the hydraulic connector 517 facing the detergent cartridge housing 501. In the considered embodiment, the piercing elements 807 extend in a plane parallel to the plane of the inner door panel 201 and generally perpendicular to the lower side 1005 of the detergent cartridge. The pointed pin 807 is configured to puncture the puncture-resistant membranes sealing the detergent outlets 1009, 1011, 1013, and 1015 of the detergent cartridge 401 when the detergent cartridge is inserted into the detergent cartridge housing 501 (for example, the puncture of the puncture-resistant membranes sealing the detergent outlets 1009, 1011, 1013, and 1015 of the detergent cartridge 401 occurs during the rotating portion of the detergent cartridge insertion operation).

[0223] In an embodiment of the invention, the detergent dispenser 401 preferably includes an activatable venting device that, when the detergent dispenser 401 is inserted into the detergent dispenser housing 501 and the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 is operated to dispense detergent / detergent components, is activated to allow ventilation of the detergent compartments 1301, 1303, 1305, and 1307 of the detergent dispenser. The multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly preferably includes a venting activation device for activating the venting device of the detergent dispenser 401.

[0224] In an embodiment of the invention, for each detergent compartment 1301, 1303, 1305, and 1307, the venting device for the detergent cartridge 401 includes a venting channel 1315 (in... Figure 13 As can be seen in the image, the venting channel is normally (i.e., before use) sealed by a punctureable venting membrane. The venting channel 1315 is preferably located in the upper region of the rear side 1201 of the detergent dispenser 401, near the upper side 1003 of the detergent dispenser 401. Therefore, the venting channel 1315 is preferably located on the opposite side of the detergent dispenser 401 relative to the detergent outlets 1009, 1011, 1013, 1015.

[0225] Preferably, corresponding to the venting channel 1315, the detergent dispenser 401 includes a connecting collar 1205 for each detergent compartment 1301, 1303, 1305, and 1307. The connecting collar 1205 is configured to insert into a corresponding venting connector 523 disposed in the support element 309, which protrudes from the rear wall 503 of the detergent dispenser housing 501 into the support element approximately at the top of the detergent dispenser housing 501.

[0226] Preferably, a gasket (e.g., an O-ring) is associated with each coupling collar 1205 to improve the tight connection between the coupling collar 1205 and the vent connector 523.

[0227] Figure 16 , Figure 17 and Figure 18 Details of the activatable venting device of the detergent cartridge 401 and the venting activation device of the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0228] A venting connector 523 disposed in the support element 309 houses venting activation components within its internal hollow space. These venting activation components are configured to activate the venting device of the detergent dispenser 401. In an embodiment of the invention, the venting activation device includes a piercing element 1705 configured to perforate a pierceable ventilated membrane of the corresponding detergent storage compartment of the detergent dispenser 401 when the detergent dispenser 401 is inserted into the detergent dispenser housing 501, thereby establishing a venting channel 1801 between the internal volume of the detergent compartment and the external environment. Preferably, once the venting channel 1801 is established after the piercing element perforates the pierceable ventilated membrane, the venting channel can be selectively activated, as will be described in detail below.

[0229] When the user presses the detergent dispenser 401 to activate the detergent dispenser retaining mechanism 519, the connecting collar 1205 is introduced into the vent connector 523, and the piercing element 1705 punctures the pierceable vent membrane of the detergent storage compartment of the detergent dispenser 401.

[0230] Preferably, in embodiments of the invention, a one-way fluid channel device, particularly a vent check valve, is provided for selectively activating the vent channel 1801 once it is established. For example, the vent check valve includes a check valve 1709 formed within the vent connector 523 and configured to keep the vent channel 1801 normally closed, thereby selectively opening the vent channel when a dose of detergent / detergent component is removed from the compartment of the detergent dispenser 401.

[0231] The check valve 1709 includes, for example, a baffle element 1711 mounted on a rod of the piercing element 1705. The piercing element 1705 and the baffle element 1711 are slidable along the interior of the vent connector 523, guided by a sliding guide 1707 within the vent connector 523, from a closed position to an open position. A biasing device (e.g., a spring 1703) normally holds the piercing element 1705 in the position where the baffle element 1711 closes the vent connector 523. When detergent / detergent components are removed from the detergent compartment of the detergent dispenser 401, the depressurization within the detergent compartment causes the piercing element 1705 and the baffle element 1711 to move against the biasing action of the spring 1703 to the open position, thereby allowing venting to the detergent compartment.

[0232] A check valve 1709 located at the vent connector 523 allows for the prevention of unintended leakage of detergent / detergent components from the vent passage 1707 into the detergent compartment of the detergent dispenser, which could occur, for example, when the dishwasher door 125 is opened to load / unload kitchen items to be washed / washed and thus the detergent dispenser 401 moves from its normal vertical orientation to a horizontal or near-horizontal orientation when the dishwasher door is closed.

[0233] When the detergent dispenser 401 is placed in the detergent dispenser housing for operation, ventilating the detergent compartment of the detergent dispenser helps to discharge a certain amount of detergent from the detergent compartment, thereby maintaining the pressure inside the detergent compartment approximately equal to atmospheric pressure and maintaining the pressure inside the detergent compartment by atmospheric pressure.

[0234] The multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly includes an arrangement configured to obtain detergent stored in the detergent compartment of detergent cartridge 401 (when detergent cartridge 401 is inserted into the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140) and deliver a fixed amount of detergent into the wash chamber 110.

[0235] In an embodiment of the invention, the arrangement for obtaining and delivering a fixed amount of detergent is located below the detergent dispenser housing 501 (when the door 125 is in the closed or partially closed position).

[0236] In embodiments of the invention, the arrangement for acquiring and delivering a fixed amount of detergent includes active fluid delivery devices configured and operable to deliver a fixed amount of fluid (detergent / detergent components). In embodiments of the invention, the active fluid delivery devices include pumps, particularly positive displacement pumps (positive displacement pumps or fixed displacement pumps), and even more particularly, but not limitingly, peristaltic pumps (in embodiments, piston pumps or gear pumps may also be used).

[0237] In an embodiment of the invention, the support element 309 is shaped to include a housing 317 (also referred to as a pump housing) configured to enclose the arrangement for receiving and delivering a fixed amount of detergent. Both the pump housing 317 and the detergent cartridge housing 501 are surrounded by a perimeter frame 313 of the support element 309.

[0238] In an embodiment of the invention, the pump housing 317 is closed on the side facing the washing chamber 110 by the pump housing wall 1405 (when the door 125 is in the closed or partially closed position). In an embodiment of the invention, the pump housing 317 opens towards the door frame 203 from the side opposite to the wall 1405 (i.e., on the side of the inner door panel 201 opposite to the washing chamber 110).

[0239] Pump housing 317 includes a detergent inlet 517 and a detergent outlet 205, and houses a peristaltic pump assembly 2001. The peristaltic pump assembly housed in pump housing 307 is separated or isolated from the wash chamber 110 by pump housing wall 1405. When the door is in the closed position, the peristaltic pump assembly housed in pump housing 317 is arranged below the detergent cartridge housing 501.

[0240] In an embodiment of the invention, a peristaltic pump assembly 2001 is provided to cooperate with a corresponding detergent storage compartment of the detergent cartridge when the detergent cartridge 401 is inserted into the detergent cartridge housing 501. Providing a peristaltic pump assembly 2001 for each detergent storage compartment of the detergent cartridge 401, depending on the specifications of the detergent components, advantageously allows for the separate release of detergent / detergent components (detergent ingredients) stored in the different detergent compartments of the detergent cartridge during a wash cycle at a preferred temperature and time.

[0241] In other embodiments of the invention, the number of peristaltic pump assemblies 2001 may not be the same as the number of detergent storage compartments in the detergent dispenser 401. For example, the number of peristaltic pump assemblies 2001 may be less than the number of detergent storage compartments in the detergent dispenser (in which case the arrangement for obtaining and delivering a fixed amount of detergent may be configured such that one peristaltic pump assembly 2001 is intended to be operatively associated with two or more detergent compartments of the detergent dispenser 401).

[0242] In an embodiment of the invention, the universal peristaltic pump assembly 2001 is a pre-assembled module that can be installed as a unit onto / removed from the support element 309.

[0243] Figures 21 to 24 Various views of a peristaltic pump module 2001 arranged for acquiring and delivering a fixed amount of detergent according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown. Figure 25 and Figure 26This is an exploded view of the various parts of the peristaltic pump module 2001 as seen from opposite sides.

[0244] The general-purpose peristaltic pump module 2001 includes a fluid transfer section, a motor section, and mechanical and hydraulic connections.

[0245] The fluid displacement component includes an elastically deformable flexible tube 2501 and a pump rotor 2503. The flexible tube 2501 and rotor 2503 are enclosed within a pump housing 2505. The rotor 2503 is rotatably housed within the pump housing 2505. The pump housing 2505 includes a pump housing shell 2507 and a pump housing cover 2509. The pump housing cover 2509 closes the pump housing shell 2507, wherein the flexible tube 2501 and pump rotor 2503 are housed within the pump housing shell.

[0246] The flexible tube 2501 has a first open end 2511 and a second open end 2601.

[0247] The pump rotor 2503 has a plurality of tube clamping members, such as “scrapers” or “rollers” 2513, four rollers 2513 in the exemplary embodiment contemplated herein. The rollers 2513 are rotatably attached to the outer circumference of the rotor 2503. The rollers 2513 are arranged to compress the flexible tube 2501 as the pump rotor 2503 rotates. The portion of the flexible tube 2501 compressed by the rollers 2513 closes, thereby forcing fluid detergent / detergent components to move through the flexible tube 2501. When the flexible tube 2501 opens to its natural state after the rollers 2513 have passed, more fluid is drawn into the flexible tube 2501 through the first open end 2511 during a process known as “peristalsis.” At least some of the rollers 2513 (e.g., three rollers 2513) compress the flexible tube 2501 at a time, thereby trapping a portion of the fluid between the pairs of rollers. The portion of fluid trapped between a pair of rollers 2501 is conveyed through the flexible tube 2501 toward the second open end 2601.

[0248] The pump housing 2505 includes a first coupling connector 2515 and a second coupling connector 2517, which are configured to connect to a first open end 2511 and a second open end 2601 of the flexible tube 2501, respectively. In an embodiment, the coupling connectors 2515 and 2517 are formed in the pump housing 2507, for example, in a one-piece construction within the internal space of the pump housing intended to accommodate the flexible tube 2501.

[0249] In one embodiment, a first coupling connector 2515 is formed at the end of a first pump conduit or fluid inlet conduit 2519 terminating at a fluid inlet connector 2603. The fluid inlet connector 2603 forms the fluid inlet of the peristaltic pump module 2001. A second coupling connector 2517 is formed at the beginning of a second pump conduit or fluid delivery conduit 2521 terminating at a fluid delivery connector 1407. The fluid delivery connector 1407 forms the fluid outlet of the peristaltic pump module. In one embodiment, the fluid inlet conduit 2519, fluid inlet connector 2603, fluid delivery conduit 2521, and fluid delivery connector 1407 are formed as a single-piece component with the pump housing 2507. Preferably, gaskets (e.g., O-rings) are fitted to the fluid inlet connector 2603 and the fluid delivery connector 1407.

[0250] On the side of the pump housing 2005 opposite to the pump housing cover 2509, the motor portion of the peristaltic pump module 2001 is mounted to the pump housing 2005.

[0251] In an embodiment of the present invention, the motor portion of the peristaltic pump module 2001 includes a motor 2525 and a rotary encoder 2527.

[0252] Motor 2525 is an electric motor, preferably a synchronous motor. Motor 2525 includes a drive shaft 2541. Drive shaft 2541 extends through a hole 2506 in the wall of pump housing 2507 into pump housing 2505 to reach pump rotor 2503, which is integrally mounted to drive shaft 2541 so as to be rotated when drive shaft 2541 rotates.

[0253] The rotary encoder 2527 includes a cam disk 2529 and an electromechanical switch 2531.

[0254] The cam disk 2529 includes a plurality of cams 2533, for example, four cams 2533. A cam 2533 is, for example, a protrusion projecting from the surface of the cam disk 2529. The cams 2533 are, for example, arranged on the circumference of the cam disk 2529. The cams 2533 may be equidistant, spaced approximately 90° apart from each other.

[0255] Electromechanical switch 2531 includes a switch actuation shaft 2535, which is configured and positioned near the periphery of cam disk 2529 when motor 2525, cam disk 2529, and electromechanical switch 2531 are in operation, so that it can be actuated by a cam as cam 2533 passes by. Switch actuation shaft 2535 actuates electrical switch 2537. As cam disk 2529 rotates, a cam in cam 2533 passes near switch actuation shaft 2535, causing electrical switch 2537 to change state from open to closed and from closed to open (or vice versa). Electrical switch 2537 is electrically connected to motor control unit 2539, which is configured to count the state transitions of electrical switch 2537 to determine the angular position of pump rotor 2503. Motor control unit 2539 controls the activation of motor 2525, and thus ultimately controls the rotation of pump rotor 2503.

[0256] The pump housing 2505 (e.g., pump housing 2507) is provided with a bracket 2523 for securing the peristaltic pump module 2001 to the support element 309, for example by means of screws.

[0257] The motor 2525 can be mounted to the pump housing 2505, for example, using screws. For instance, the housing of the motor 2525 may be provided with a tab 2543 having a through hole through which a screw, which can be screwed into a threaded hole 2545 formed in a bracket 2547 of the pump housing 2507, passes. The electromechanical switch 2531 may include a frame provided with holes 2549 configured to receive posts 2551 formed in the pump housing 2507, which are adapted to snap-fit ​​into the holes 2549.

[0258] When the fluid transfer components (flexible tube 2501, rotor 2503, pump housing 2507 and pump housing cover 2509, wherein tube ends 2511 and 2601 are connected to the first coupling connector 2515 and the second coupling connector 2517) are assembled, and the motor components (motor 2525, electromechanical switch 2531 and cam disc 2529) are assembled and installed onto the pump housing 2505, the peristaltic pump module 2001 is complete and ready to be installed onto the support element 309 housed in the pump housing 317.

[0259] In other embodiments, the pump housing 2505 may be replaced by a pump support member (not necessarily limited to a housing) for supporting the pump rotor 2503, flexible tube 2501, and motor portion of the pump module. The pump support member may have the first and second connecting connectors configured to connect to a first open end 2511 and a second open end 2601 of the flexible tube 2501, respectively. A fluid inlet conduit terminates at a fluid inlet connector, and a fluid delivery conduit terminates at a fluid delivery connector. The fluid inlet conduit, fluid inlet connector, fluid delivery conduit, and fluid delivery connector may be formed as a single-piece component together with the pump support member.

[0260] Figure 27 The rear side of the support element 309 is shown, where a pump housing 317 for accommodating the peristaltic pump module 2001 is formed.

[0261] The support element 309 is provided with a mechanical and hydraulic connection at the pump housing 317. This mechanical and hydraulic connection is used to mechanically attach the peristaltic pump module 2001 to the support element 309, and simultaneously establish a hydraulic connection on one side of the peristaltic pump module 2001 to the detergent outlets 1009, 1011, 1013, and 1015 of the detergent cartridge 401, and to the detergent delivery outlet conduit 205 of the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140. The delivery outlet conduit 205 forms the detergent outlet of the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly.

[0262] The support element 309 forms or defines a conduit or pipe for fluid connection between the detergent inlet defined by the hydraulic connector 517 (for connection to the corresponding outlet of the detergent cartridge 401) and the fluid inlet of the peristaltic pump module 2001 for the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly, and a conduit or pipe for fluid connection between the fluid outlet of the peristaltic pump module 2001 and the detergent outlet (detergent delivery outlet conduit 205) of the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly for delivering detergent to the wash chamber 110.

[0263] In an embodiment of the invention, a first hydraulic fitting 1409, such as an elbow fitting, is formed in the support element 309. This first hydraulic fitting has an open end 2701 that opens into the pump housing 317. The number of first hydraulic fittings 1409 equals the number of peristaltic pump modules 2001 to be housed in the pump housing 317. The open end 2701 of the general-purpose first hydraulic fitting 1409 is configured to receive a fluid delivery connector 1407 corresponding to the peristaltic pump module 2001, which is configured to be inserted into the first hydraulic fitting through the open end 2701. At the end opposite to the open end 2701, the first hydraulic fitting forms one of a delivery outlet conduit 205.

[0264] In an embodiment of the invention, a second hydraulic fitting 1501 is formed in the support element 309, for example configured as an elbow fitting. These second hydraulic fittings have a first open end opening in the detergent cartridge housing 501, where they form hydraulic connectors 517 for connection to corresponding outlets of the detergent cartridge 401. The second hydraulic fitting 1501 has a second open end 2703 opening in the pump housing 317. The second open end 2703 of the general-purpose second hydraulic fitting 1501 is configured to receive a fluid inlet connector 2603 corresponding to the peristaltic pump module 2001, which is configured to be inserted into the second hydraulic fitting through the second open end 2703.

[0265] In an advantageous embodiment, the support element 309 is formed as a single piece, wherein a first hydraulic fitting 1409 and a second hydraulic fitting 1501 are formed.

[0266] The pair of first hydraulic fittings 1409 and second hydraulic fittings 1501 are spaced apart from the adjacent pair of first elbow fittings 1409 and second elbow fittings 1501 by a distance sufficient to provide space for accommodating a peristaltic pump module 2001.

[0267] Preferably, in order to hold the peristaltic pump module 2001 in place when it is inserted into the pump housing 317, the support element 309 is provided with threaded holes 2705 in the pump housing 317 for screwing in fixing screws for securing the peristaltic pump module 2001 (e.g., the pump housing 2005).

[0268] Preferably, a valve 1411 is associated with each delivery outlet conduit 205 of the support element 309. The valve 1411 is a one-way discharge valve, particularly a check valve. The general-purpose valve 1411 includes a baffle 1413 slidably disposed within the delivery outlet conduit 205 and biased by an elastic biasing device (e.g., a spring) toward a position that closes the delivery outlet conduit 205 at a midpoint. When the peristaltic pump is activated to draw a dose of detergent / detergent component from the detergent storage compartment of the detergent cartridge 401, fluid pressure overcomes the force of the biasing device and moves the baffle 1413 from the closed position of the delivery outlet conduit 205 to a position that releases the internal passage of the delivery outlet conduit 205, allowing the dose of detergent to pass through and be delivered to the wash chamber 110.

[0269] Valve 1411 ensures that the flexible tubing 2501 of the peristaltic pump remains full of fluid and that detergent does not leak from the fluid delivery connector 1407. This helps ensure that precisely controlled doses of detergent / detergent components are delivered to the wash chamber 110.

[0270] The venting channel 1801, established by the puncture element 1705 and enabling fluid communication between the internal volume of the detergent dispenser and the external environment, allows for balancing of the internal pressure of the detergent dispenser during peristaltic pump operation and prevents depressurization within the detergent dispenser.

[0271] In an embodiment of the invention, a sensing arrangement for detecting the empty state of the detergent dispenser 401 is preferably provided. In this embodiment, the sensing arrangement includes at least one fluid sensor 2003 arranged along at least one of the delivery outlet conduits 205. The fluid sensor 2003 may be, for example, a capacitive sensor, an optical sensor, or a conductivity sensor configured to detect when fluid is present in the delivery outlet conduit 205. The fluid sensor 2003 is configured to be immersed in the fluid (detergent / detergent components) present in the delivery outlet conduit 205 and is sensitive to the presence of fluid. The fluid sensor 2003 may be in signal communication with a dishwasher control unit configured to monitor the filling status of the detergent dispenser 401 based on readings from the fluid sensor 2003, and preferably notify the user when the detergent dispenser is nearly empty. Based on this notification, the user is aware that the detergent dispenser 401 needs to be replaced with a new one.

[0272] A single fluid sensor 2003 associated with one of the delivery outlet conduits 205 may suffice, for example, in cases where a dose of detergent proportional to the capacity of the detergent storage compartment is drawn from each detergent compartment of the detergent cartridge during each wash cycle (either once or at two or more different times during a wash cycle). However, nothing would preclude providing more than one fluid sensor, for example, one fluid sensor for each delivery outlet conduit 205.

[0273] In the exemplary embodiment considered herein, each peristaltic pump module 2001 has its own motor, so each peristaltic pump module 2001 can operate autonomously independent of the other peristaltic pump modules. This can be useful, for example, when different detergents stored in a detergent dispenser need to be dispensed in different doses.

[0274] Figure 28 and Figure 29 Another embodiment of a multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly for different detergent cartridge insertion methods is shown; Figures 30 to 33 It shows the configuration with Figure 28 and Figure 29 Detergent cartridge 401 used in conjunction with multi-dose detergent dispenser components.

[0275] In this embodiment, the detergent cartridge housing 2801 of the support element 309 still includes a recessed portion of the support element 309, which is recessed relative to the peripheral flange 403 and defines a cavity opening toward the wash chamber 110 when the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly is mounted to the door inner panel 201. The detergent cartridge housing 2801 still has a rear wall 2803, two opposing side walls (left side wall 2805a and right side wall 2805b), an upper wall 2807, and a lower wall 2809.

[0276] As in the foregoing embodiments, when the multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 assembly is mounted on the inner door panel 201, the peripheral flange 403 of the support element 309 is substantially flush with the recessed area 305 of the inner door panel 201, while the detergent cartridge housing 2801 is recessed relative to the recessed area 305 of the inner door panel 201 (away from the wash chamber 110) (because the detergent cartridge housing 2801 protrudes rearward through the opening 301 in the inner door panel 201). Advantageously, the size of the detergent cartridge 401 is determined such that when housed in the detergent cartridge housing 2801, the detergent cartridge 401 is substantially flush with the recessed area 503 of the inner door panel 201 and does not occupy space in the wash chamber 110.

[0277] The detergent dispenser housing 2801 has an insertion / removal guide for guiding insertion / removal movement of the detergent dispenser 401 into / from the detergent dispenser housing 2801. Specifically, the guide includes a ridge 2811 formed to extend along one of the two sidewalls of the detergent dispenser housing 2801, for example, along the left sidewall 2805a. The ridge 2811 may extend along the entire sidewall of the housing, as in the example shown, or only along a portion of the sidewall.

[0278] Preferably, these guides also include a track 2813 defined by a pair of guide rails 2815 projecting from the lower wall 2809 of the detergent dispenser housing 2801. A similar track 2813 (defined by a similar pair of projecting guide rails) may also be formed in the upper wall 2807 of the detergent dispenser housing 2801. In embodiments, the track in the lower wall 2809 may be absent, and only the track 2813 in the upper wall 2807 may be provided. The two tracks 2813 may, for example, be vertically aligned (vertical with respect to the door 125 in the closed position). Each track 2813 is configured to cooperate with a guide protrusion 2901 formed in the detergent dispenser 401.

[0279] A venting activation device for activating the venting mechanism of the detergent dispenser 401 is disposed in the support element 309, near the upper wall 2807 of the detergent dispenser housing 2801. The venting activation device is substantially the same as that of the previously described embodiment and includes a venting connector 523 having internal piercing elements 1705 configured to perforate a pierceable membrane disposed in the detergent dispenser at the venting mechanism. As in the previously described embodiment, a one-way fluid channel device associated with the venting activation device is preferably provided for selectively activating the venting channel established by the piercing elements 1705. For example, the one-way fluid channel device includes a check valve formed within the venting connector 523, similar to the previously described embodiment.

[0280] A detergent cartridge retention mechanism 519 similar to that in the foregoing embodiment is provided. The detergent cartridge retention mechanism 519 is disposed on the side of the detergent cartridge housing 2801 opposite to the axis of rotation defining the rotating portion for insertion manipulation of the detergent cartridge 401 into the detergent cartridge housing 2801. In this embodiment, the detergent cartridge retention mechanism 519 is arranged along one of the sidewalls of the detergent cartridge housing 2801, particularly along the sidewall opposite to the sidewall provided with the ridge 2811 (i.e., the right sidewall 2805b in the considered example).

[0281] A facilitating device is also provided for facilitating the removal of the detergent cartridge 401 from the detergent cartridge housing 2801. The facilitating device is disposed on the side of the detergent cartridge housing 2801 opposite to the side of the axis of rotation defining the rotating portion for insertion manipulation of the detergent cartridge 401 into the detergent cartridge housing 2801.

[0282] The actuating device includes two actuating devices 531 of the type described in conjunction with the previous embodiments, which have actuating members that can slide inside the actuating member seat and are biased by an elastic biasing device (e.g., a spring). In this embodiment, the two actuating devices 531 are arranged along a sidewall opposite to the sidewall provided with the ridge 2811 (i.e., the right sidewall 2805b in the considered example).

[0283] The detergent dispenser housing 2801 has hydraulic connectors 517 for connecting to the corresponding detergent outlet of the detergent dispenser when the detergent dispenser 401 is housed within the detergent dispenser housing 2801. The hydraulic connectors 517 are located on the lower wall 2809 of the detergent dispenser housing 2801 and oriented perpendicular to the rear wall 2803 of the detergent dispenser housing 2801. Similar to the previously described embodiments, the hydraulic connectors 517 may be provided with piercing elements 807 for piercing a pierceable membrane disposed at the detergent outlet of the detergent dispenser 401.

[0284] The detergent dispenser 401 has an abutment 3201 along one of its lateral sides configured to cooperate with the spine 2811. Detergent outlets 1009, 1011, 1013 and 1015 are oriented perpendicular to the detergent dispenser wall forming the rear side 1201 of the detergent dispenser.

[0285] Similar to the embodiments of the invention described above, inserting and removing the detergent dispenser from the detergent dispenser housing 2801 requires translational and rotational movement of the detergent dispenser 401. Specifically, inserting the detergent dispenser into the detergent dispenser housing 2801 requires translational movement followed by rotational movement. Removing the detergent dispenser from the detergent dispenser housing 2801 requires rotational movement followed by translational movement.

[0286] In this embodiment, the hydraulic connector 517 and the associated piercing element 807 are generally orthogonal to the (final) rotating portion of the insertion movement of the detergent cartridge into the detergent cartridge housing 2801.

[0287] In order to insert the detergent dispenser 401 into the detergent dispenser housing 2801, the user brings the detergent dispenser close to the housing 2801 and moves the detergent dispenser horizontally so that the abutment portion 3201 contacts the ridge portion 2811.

[0288] The user then pushes the detergent dispenser 401 on the side opposite to the side where the abutment portion 3201 is located, causing the detergent dispenser 401 to rotate about the axis of rotation defined by the ridge portion 2811 until the detergent dispenser encounters the retaining mechanism 519, which is activated to retain the detergent dispenser in the housing 2801. A guide protrusion 2901 formed in the detergent dispenser 401 engages with a track 2813 formed in the detergent dispenser housing 2801, thereby guiding the rotation of the detergent dispenser 401.

[0289] To remove the detergent dispenser 401 from the housing 2801, the user acts on the retaining mechanism 319 until the retaining mechanism releases the detergent dispenser 401. As the detergent dispenser is released, the actuating device 531 pushes one side of the detergent dispenser away from the rear wall of the housing 2801, allowing the user to grasp the detergent dispenser. The user slightly rotates the detergent dispenser and then slides it to disengage the abutment 3201 from the ridge 2811, and removes the dispenser 401.

[0290] Preferably, these detergent dispensing devices 130 (i.e., multi-dose detergent dispensers 140 and, if provided, single-dose detergent dispensers 135) are generally arranged in the upper half of the door inner panel 201. The location of the detergent dispensing devices 130 should be selected with consideration of the user's ease of use and the obstruction factor of the dishwasher's wash compartment. For example, placing the detergent dispensing devices 130 in a relatively high position can be convenient because in this way, the user will not be required to bend down to operate the detergent dispensing devices 130, and these detergent dispensing devices can be reached even by slightly opening the dishwasher door. Obstruction factors may involve the location of the shelves for holding items to be washed inside the wash compartment: the detergent dispensing devices 130 should be placed in a position that does not interfere with the shelves and does not reduce the size of the shelves.

[0291] Figure 36 Figure 37 illustrates an exemplary placement of the detergent dispensing device 130. The multi-dose detergent dispenser 140 is positioned on the inner door panel of the dishwasher door such that the detergent dispenser housing 501 or 2801 is generally located in front of the upper shelf 150b (when the dishwasher door is closed). As previously described, the detergent dispenser housings 501, 2801 are recessed (away from the wash chamber 110) relative to the recessed area 305 of the inner door panel 201 and the detergent dispenser 401 (when housed within the detergent dispenser housings 501, 2801), advantageously achieving a substantially flush (or minimally protruding) alignment with the recessed area 503 of the inner door panel 201, and not occupying space within the wash chamber 110.

[0292] Figures 35 to 38 An embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein a multi-dose detergent dispenser and a single-dose detergent dispenser are substantially integrated together in a single component.

[0293] from Figure 35 Initially, an opening 3501 is formed in the inner door panel 201, which may be larger (e.g., wider) than the opening 301 formed in the inner door panel of the previously described embodiment. For example, the opening 3501 may extend substantially the entire width of the inner door panel 201. The opening 3501 is advantageously formed in a recessed region 305 of the inner door panel 201, recessed relative to the protruding profile 307 of the inner door panel 201, as in the previously described embodiment.

[0294] Opening 3501 is configured to receive, accommodate, and retain assembly 3701 (particularly in Figure 37B (As shown in the figure), the component includes a single-dose detergent dispenser 135 and a multi-dose detergent dispenser 140.

[0295] The single-dose detergent dispenser 135 can be any known single-dose detergent dispenser. Without going into too much detail, the single-dose detergent dispenser 135 may include a box with a detergent compartment for containing a single dose of detergent (e.g., in powder form) or detergent pellets to be released during a wash cycle. The box has a lid that can be closed by the user after the detergent or pellets have been loaded into the detergent compartment. A mechanism for automatically opening the lid during a wash cycle is operatively associated with the box. The box may have an additional compartment for containing rinsing aids.

[0296] In an embodiment of the invention, component 3701 includes a support element 3601. The support element 3601 may generally resemble... Figures 2 to 27 The support element 309 shown in the embodiment, or similar to Figures 28 to 33 The embodiment shown has a support element 309; in the example considered herein, the support element 3601 is similar to... Figures 28 to 33 The illustrated embodiment has a support element 309, but it is wider so as to include a seat 3603 in addition to the detergent cartridge housing 2801. This seat is configured to receive and hold the cartridge of the single-dose detergent dispenser 135 therein. The seat 3603 may be an opening formed in the wall of the support element 3601.

[0297] To attach the support element 3601 to the inner door panel 201, similar to the previously described embodiment, wings 303 may be provided along the perimeter of the opening 3501. These wings protrude toward the door frame 203, i.e., away from the washroom 110, when the inner door panel 201 is mounted to the door frame. The wings 303 are configured to cooperate with tabs 311 formed along the perimeter of the support element 3601.

[0298] The single-dose detergent dispenser 135 housing can be attached to the support element 3601 by means of an engagement between a protruding tab 3703 formed along the periphery of the single-dose detergent dispenser 135 housing and a wing 3605 formed along the periphery of the seat 3603. Alternatively or in combination, the single-dose detergent dispenser 135 housing can be attached to the support element 3601 using a fastening device such as screws. Preferably, a washer is inserted between the single-dose detergent dispenser 135 housing and the support element 3601.

Claims

1. An appliance for washing kitchen items, comprising: - Server rack (105); - Inside the cabinet is a washing chamber (110) configured to accommodate kitchen items to be washed, and the washing chamber has a washing chamber access opening for loading / unloading kitchen items into and out of the washing chamber. - A door (125) that is movably mounted to the cabinet and configured to selectively close the washroom entrance opening; - A multi-dose detergent dispenser (140) assembly disposed on the door, the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly comprising: ■ Detergent cartridge housing (501; 2801) configured to receive and accommodate an interchangeable multi-dose detergent cartridge (401) configured to store detergent, the detergent cartridge housing including guide members (511-515; 2811-3015) configured to guide the detergent cartridge when inserted into / removed from the detergent cartridge housing; ■ A pump housing (317) configured to house a positive displacement metering pump (2001), preferably a peristaltic pump, configured and operable to pump a fixed amount of detergent, the pump housing comprising: • Detergent inlets (517), which are configured to receive detergent from the detergent cartridge when the detergent cartridge is housed in the detergent cartridge housing; • Detergent outlets (205), which are configured to dispense detergent into the washing chamber. ■ These volumetric metering pumps are arranged in the pump housing, between the detergent inlets and the detergent outlets, for obtaining a fixed amount of detergent from the detergent cartridge through the detergent inlets when the detergent cartridge is housed in the detergent cartridge housing, and dispensing the fixed amount of detergent into the washing chamber through the detergent outlets.

2. The appliance for washing kitchen items according to the preceding claim, wherein: - The detergent dispenser housing includes a cavity that opens toward the washroom when the door is in the closed position; - The pump housing is closed on the side of the door facing the washing chamber when the door is in the closed position by the pump housing wall (1405), and the volumetric metering pumps housed in the pump housing are separated from the washing chamber by the pump housing wall.

3. The appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly includes a support element (309; 3601); - The support element includes the detergent cartridge housing, the pump housing, and a perimeter frame (313, 403) surrounding the detergent cartridge housing and the pump housing.

4. According to the claims 3 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The support element is a single piece.

5. According to the claims 3 or 4 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The support element is mounted to the inner panel (201) of the door, which faces the washing chamber when the door is in the closed position.

6. According to the claims 2 to 5 The appliance for washing kitchen items as described in any one of the following methods, wherein: - The pump housing is open on the side opposite to the pump housing wall, for mounting these positive displacement metering pumps in the pump housing.

7. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - When the door is in the closed position, the pump housing is located below the detergent dispenser housing.

8. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - These positive displacement metering pumps include a pump inlet (2603) and a pump outlet (1407). - The pump housing includes: ■ First fluid conduits (1501), which are configured to fluidly connect these detergent inlets to these pump inlets; ■ Second fluid conduits (1409) are configured to fluidly connect these pump outlets to these detergent outlets.

9. According to the claims 8 In dependent claims 3 The appliances used for washing kitchen items as described above, wherein: - These first fluid conduits and these second fluid conduits are formed in the support element.

10. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The pump housing includes a one-way discharge valve (1411) associated with these detergent outlets.

11. According to claims 10 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: These one-way discharge valves are check valves, which are configured to allow fluid to flow out of these detergent outlets when these volumetric metering pumps are operated to pump fluid.

12. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The detergent dispenser housing includes venting activation components (1705) configured to activate venting channels (1315, 1801) provided on the detergent dispenser. - The ventilation activation component is configured to establish a ventilation channel for the detergent cartridge during insertion into the detergent cartridge housing. - Once these ventilation channels are established, fluid communication can be achieved between the internal volume of the detergent dispenser and the external environment, so as to balance the pressure inside the detergent dispenser when these positive displacement pumps are running.

13. According to claims 12 In dependent claims 3 The appliances used for washing kitchen items as described above, wherein: - The ventilation activation component is disposed on the support element; - The venting activation component includes piercing elements (1705) configured to activate the corresponding venting opening of the detergent cartridge by piercing a venting opening seal disposed in the detergent cartridge near its venting opening.

14. According to the claims 13 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The support element includes vent check valves (1709) configured to connect to the vent passage of the detergent dispenser and allow air to flow into the detergent dispenser through the vent passage and prevent detergent from leaking out of the detergent dispenser through the vent passage.

15. According to claims 13 or 14 The appliance for washing kitchen items as described in any one of the following methods, wherein: - When the door is in the closed position, the ventilation activation component is arranged above the detergent inlet.

16. According to claims 12 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein, When the door is in the closed position, the ventilation activation member is formed in the upper region of the detergent cartridge housing, and the detergent inlet is formed in the lower region of the detergent cartridge housing.

17. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The detergent dispenser housing includes a detergent dispenser retention mechanism (519) configured to releasably retain the detergent dispenser in a suitable position within the detergent dispenser housing.

18. The claims according to the preceding claims 3 to 17 Any one of the dependent claims 3 The appliances used for washing kitchen items as described above, wherein: - The detergent dispenser retention mechanism is formed in the support element.

19. According to claims 17 or 18 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The detergent dispenser retention mechanism includes a movable member (701) configured to form an engagement portion (703) adapted to engage a corresponding portion (705) of the detergent dispenser. The movable member is movable between a dispenser engagement position and a dispenser disengagement position. The detergent dispenser retention mechanism includes biasing elements (707) configured to bias the movable member toward the dispenser engagement position. The movable member is configured to be pushed toward the dispenser disengagement position by the detergent dispenser when it is being inserted into the detergent dispenser housing, and to automatically move back to the dispenser disengagement position by the action of the biasing elements once the detergent dispenser has been fully inserted into the detergent dispenser housing.

20. According to claims 17 to 19 The appliance for washing kitchen items as described in any one of the following methods, wherein: - The detergent dispenser retaining mechanism is formed near one side of the detergent dispenser housing.

21. According to claims 20 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - When the door is in the closed position, the detergent dispenser retaining mechanism is formed near the upper side of the detergent dispenser housing. or - The detergent dispenser retaining mechanism is formed near the lateral side of the detergent dispenser housing.

22. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The detergent dispenser housing includes a facilitating device (521) associated with the detergent dispenser housing, the facilitating device being configured to facilitate removal of the detergent dispenser from the detergent dispenser housing.

23. According to the preceding claims 3 to 22 Any one of the dependent claims 3 The appliances used for washing kitchen items as described above, wherein: - The promoting device is formed in the support element.

24. According to claims 22 or 23 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: The actuating device includes a pushing member (803) and a pushing member biasing element (905) arranged to cause the pushing member to protrude from the rear wall (503; 2803) of the detergent cartridge housing. The pushing member is configured to push the detergent cartridge away from the rear wall (503; 2803) of the detergent cartridge housing when the detergent cartridge is contained inside the detergent cartridge housing.

25. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - At least one of these volumetric metering pumps is configured as a ready-to-use pump module, prepared for installation into the pump housing of the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly; - The pump module includes a pump support or pump housing (2005) which is configured to support the components of the pump module.

26. According to claims 25 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - This pump module includes: ■ A resilient deformable tube (2501) having a first open end and a second open end (2511, 2601). ■ Pump rotor (2503), which is provided with pipe clamping members (2513), in particular pipe clamping rollers, which are rotatably supported or housed in the pump housing by the pump support members in such a way that when the pump rotor rotates, these pipe clamping members interact with the elastically deformable tube. ■ First connecting connector and second connecting connector (2515, 2517), the first connecting connector and the second connecting connector are formed in the pump support or pump housing, preferably forming a single piece with the pump support or pump housing, and are configured to connect to the first open end and the second open end of the elastically deformable tube respectively. ■ A pump inlet (2603) and a pump outlet (1407) are formed in the pump support or pump housing. ■ A first pump pipe (2519) fluidly connects the pump inlet to the first coupling connector and a second pump pipe (2521) fluidly connects the second coupling connector to the pump outlet, the first pump pipe and the second pump pipe being formed within the pump support or pump housing. ■ The pump inlet and / or the pump outlet and / or the first pump pipe and / or the second pump pipe are preferably constructed as a single piece with the pump support or the pump housing.

27. According to claims 26 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The pump rotor includes at least two pipe clamping members spaced at an angle to each other.

28. According to claims 25 to 27 The appliance for washing kitchen items as described in any one of the following methods, wherein: - The pump module includes a pump motor (2525) configured to operate the pump module.

29. According to claims 28 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The pump motor is mechanically connected to the pump rotor and is configured to drive the pump rotor to rotate.

30. According to claims 29 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - A motor control unit is operatively associated with the pump module. The motor control unit includes a rotary encoder (2527) in communication with the motor control unit. The motor control unit is configured to control the pump motor based on instructions received from the rotary encoder.

31. According to claims 30 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The rotary encoder includes cams (2529, 2533) and an electromechanical switch (2531), which are associated with the pump rotor in a manner that rotates together with the pump rotor.

32. According to claims 31 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The cam includes a cam disk (2529) mounted on a motor shaft (2541), the cam disk having protrusions (2533) arranged circumferentially in sequence, the protrusions being configured to interact with the electromechanical switch so as to cause a change in the state of the electromechanical switch when the protrusions pass near the electromechanical switch as the cam disk rotates.

33. According to claims 28 to 32 The appliance for washing kitchen items as described in any one of the following methods, wherein: - The pump motor and the rotary encoder are mounted on the pump support or the pump housing of the pump module.

34. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The pump housing includes piercing elements (807) disposed at the detergent inlets, which are configured to pierce the pierceable portion of the seal disposed at the detergent outlet of the detergent cartridge when the detergent cartridge is inserted into the detergent cartridge housing, thereby establishing a fluid passage from the detergent cartridge to the detergent inlets.

35. According to claims 34 In dependent claims 3 The appliances used for washing kitchen items as described above, wherein: - The piercing element is disposed on the support element.

36. According to claims 35 In dependent claims 12 The appliances used for washing kitchen items as described above, wherein: - When the door is in the closed position, the piercing element disposed at the detergent inlet and the piercing element configured to activate the corresponding vent opening of the detergent cartridge are respectively formed in the lower and upper portions of the detergent cartridge housing.

37. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The guide member is configured to guide the detergent dispenser into / out of the detergent dispenser housing based on a combination of translational and rotational movements.

38. According to the claims 37 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The combination of translational and rotational movement includes translational movement and subsequent rotational movement for insertion into the detergent cartridge housing, and rotational movement and subsequent translational movement for removal from the detergent cartridge housing.

39. According to the claims 38 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The rotational movement is achieved by first pivoting elements (513, 515; 2811, 2813) disposed in the detergent cartridge housing and configured to cooperate with second pivoting elements (1017, 1019; 3201) disposed on the detergent cartridge.

40. According to claims 5 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The inner panel of the door includes panel openings (301; 3501); - The support element is installed on the inner panel of the door, matching the panel opening.

41. According to the claims 40 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The inner panel of the door includes a profile (307) that matches the perimeter of the entrance opening to the laundry room and a recessed area (305) defined by the profile. - The panel opening is located in the recessed area.

42. An appliance for washing kitchen items, comprising: - Server rack (105); - Inside the cabinet is a washing chamber (110) configured to accommodate kitchen items to be washed, and the washing chamber has a washing chamber access opening for loading / unloading kitchen items into and out of the washing chamber. - A door (125) that is movably mounted to the cabinet and configured to selectively close the washroom entry opening, the door having a profile (307) on its side facing the washroom that matches the perimeter of the washroom entry opening and a recessed area (305) defined by the profile. - A multi-dose detergent dispenser (140) assembly disposed on the door, the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly comprising: ■ Detergent cartridge housing (501; 2801) configured to receive and accommodate an interchangeable multi-dose detergent cartridge (401) configured to store detergent, the detergent cartridge housing being recessed into the door relative to the recessed area of ​​the door, the detergent cartridge housing including guide members (511-515; 2811-3015) configured to guide the detergent cartridge when inserted into / removed from the detergent cartridge housing; ■ Detergent inlets (517), which are configured to receive detergent from the detergent cartridge when the detergent cartridge is housed in the detergent cartridge housing; ■ Detergent outlets (205) are configured to dispense detergent into the washing chamber.

43. According to claims 42 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The detergent dispenser housing is configured to house the detergent dispenser substantially flush with the recessed area of ​​the door.

44. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The detergent dispenser housing includes a cavity that opens toward the washroom when the door is in the closed position, and the detergent dispenser housing has a rear wall (503; 2803). - The recessed area of ​​the door on the rear wall of the detergent dispenser housing protrudes backward from the washing chamber.

45. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly includes a support element (309; 3601); - The detergent dispenser housing and its rear wall are formed within the support element; - The support element includes a perimeter frame (313, 403) surrounding the detergent dispenser housing.

46. ​​According to claims 45 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The support element is a single piece.

47. According to claims 45 or 46 The appliance for washing kitchen items as described in any one of the following methods, wherein: - The door includes an inner door panel (201) that faces the laundry room when the door is in the closed position; - The inner panel of the door includes the outline and the recessed area defined by the outline; - The support element is installed into the inner panel of the door, in a recessed area of ​​the inner panel of the door; - When the door is in the closed position, the rear wall of the detergent dispenser housing protrudes away from the wash chamber from the recessed area of ​​the inner panel of the door.

48. According to claims 47 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The support element is installed onto the inner panel of the door via a snap-fit ​​engagement.

49. According to claims 47 or 48 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The inner panel of the door includes a panel opening (301; 3501) located in the recessed area. - The support element is installed on the inner panel of the door, matching the panel opening.

50. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly includes a pump housing (317) configured to house volumetric metering pumps (2001), preferably peristaltic pumps, configured and operable to pump a fixed amount of detergent, the volumetric metering pumps being arranged between detergent inlets and detergent outlets for obtaining a fixed amount of detergent from a detergent cartridge housed in the detergent cartridge housing through the detergent inlets and dispensing the fixed amount of detergent into the washing chamber through the detergent outlets.

51. According to claims 50 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The pump housing is closed on the side of the door facing the washing chamber when the door is in the closed position by the pump housing wall (1405), and the volumetric metering pumps housed in the pump housing are separated from the washing chamber by the pump housing wall.

52. According to claims 51 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - When the door is in the closed position, the pump housing wall protrudes toward the washing chamber relative to the recessed area of ​​the door.

53. According to claims 45 to 52 Any one of the dependent claims 45 The appliances used for washing kitchen items as described above, wherein: - The perimeter frame (313, 403) of the support element also surrounds the pump housing and the pump housing wall.

54. According to claims 50 to 53 The appliance for washing kitchen items as described in any one of the following methods, wherein: - When the door is in the closed position, these positive displacement metering pumps, housed in the pump housing, are arranged below the detergent dispenser housing.

55. According to claims 47 to 54 The appliance for washing kitchen items as described in any one of the following methods, wherein: - The perimeter frame (313, 403) of the support element is arranged to be substantially flush with the inner panel of the door; - The rear wall of the detergent dispenser housing protrudes away from the washing chamber from the perimeter frame (313, 403) of the support element, and - When the door is in the closed position, the pump housing wall (1405) protrudes from the perimeter frame (313, 403) toward the washing chamber.

56. According to claims 50 to 54 Any one of the dependent claims 50 The appliances used for washing kitchen items as described above, wherein: - These positive displacement metering pumps include a pump inlet (2603) and a pump outlet (1407). - The pump housing includes: ■ First fluid conduits (1501), which are configured to fluidly connect these detergent inlets to these pump inlets; ■ Second fluid conduits (1409) are configured to fluidly connect these pump outlets to these detergent outlets.

57. According to claims 56 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - These first fluid conduits and these second fluid conduits are formed in the support element.

58. An appliance for washing kitchen items, comprising: - Server rack (105); - Inside the cabinet is a washing chamber (110) configured to accommodate kitchen items to be washed, and the washing chamber has a washing chamber access opening for loading / unloading kitchen items into and out of the washing chamber. - A door (125) movably mounted to the cabinet and configured to selectively close the washroom entrance opening, the door including a door panel facing the washroom when the door is in the closed position, the inner door panel having a panel opening (3501). - A multi-dose detergent dispenser (140) assembly disposed on the door, the multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly comprising: ■ Support element (3601), the support element is installed to the inner panel of the door and installed in the opening of the panel, the support element includes: • Detergent cartridge housing (501; 2801), the detergent cartridge being configured to receive and accommodate an interchangeable multi-dose detergent cartridge (401) configured to store an amount of detergent or detergent components sufficient for multiple kitchen item washing cycles, the detergent cartridge housing including guide members (511-515; 2811-3015) configured to guide the detergent cartridge when inserted into / removed from the detergent cartridge housing; • Detergent inlets (517), which are configured to receive detergent from the detergent cartridge when the detergent cartridge is housed in the detergent cartridge housing; • Detergent outlets (205), which are configured to dispense detergent into the washing chamber; - A single-dose detergent dispenser (135) configured to store an amount of detergent sufficient for a single kitchen item washing cycle, the single-dose detergent dispenser being mounted to the support element.

59. According to claims 58 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The support element includes an opening (3603) forming a seat for receiving the single-dose detergent dispenser.

60. According to claims 59 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The openings in the single-dose detergent dispenser and the support element that form a seat for the single-dose detergent dispenser are configured to snap-fit ​​the single-dose detergent dispenser into the support element.

61. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The inner panel of the door includes a profile (307) that matches the perimeter of the entrance opening to the laundry room on the side facing the laundry room when the door is in the closed position, and a recessed area (305) defined by the profile. - The panel opening is formed in the recessed area.

62. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The support element is installed onto the inner panel of the door via a snap-fit ​​engagement.

63. An appliance for washing kitchen items according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - The multi-dose detergent dispenser assembly includes a pump housing (317) configured to house volumetric metering pumps (2001), preferably peristaltic pumps, configured and operable to pump a fixed amount of detergent, the volumetric metering pumps being arranged between detergent inlets and detergent outlets for obtaining a fixed amount of detergent from a detergent cartridge housed in the detergent cartridge housing through the detergent inlets and dispensing the fixed amount of detergent into the washing chamber through the detergent outlets.

64. According to the claims 63 In dependent claims 59 The appliances used for washing kitchen items as described above, wherein: - The support element includes a perimeter frame that surrounds the detergent cartridge housing, the pump housing, and the opening that forms a seat for receiving the single-dose detergent dispenser.

65. According to the claims 64 The aforementioned appliance for washing kitchen items, wherein: - The opening that forms the seat for receiving the single-dose detergent dispenser is formed laterally in the support element of the pump housing.

66. According to claims 62 to 65 Any one of the dependent claims 62 The appliances used for washing kitchen items as described above, wherein: - The support element is installed into the inner panel of the door, in a recessed area of ​​the inner panel of the door; - When the door is in the closed position, the rear wall (503) of the detergent dispenser housing protrudes away from the wash chamber from the recessed area of ​​the inner panel of the door.

67. According to claims 63 to 66 Any one of the dependent claims 63 The appliances used for washing kitchen items as described above, wherein: - The pump housing is closed by the pump housing wall (1405) on the side of the door facing the washing chamber when the door is in the closed position; - When the door is in the closed position, the pump housing wall protrudes toward the washing chamber relative to the recessed area of ​​the door.

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