Dishwasher rack-mounted solid detergent dispenser

Abstract

Provision of an apparatus for dispensing detergent solution from a solid detergent into a dishwasher. A device for dispensing detergent solution from a solid detergent into a dishwasher can be mounted to the dishwasher rack around the periphery of the rack and generate the detergent solution by collecting water in the dishwasher and using the collected water to dissolve a portion of the solid detergent. In various embodiments, the device can include a detergent chamber for containing the solid detergent and, optionally, an end-of-detergent indicator that indicates the amount of solid detergent in the detergent chamber. In various embodiments, the release of the detergent solution can be controlled passively using the size of the liquid outlet or actively using sensed signals indicative of the operating status of the dishwasher and / or the concentration of detergent in the dishwasher water.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (Priority Claim) This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 378,575, filed October 6, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to the dispensing of warewashing detergents, and more particularly to methods and apparatus for dispensing solid detergents into washing machines, such as dishwashers. [Background technology]

[0003] A dishwasher, also referred to as a warewashing machine or ware-washing machine, is a machine for automatically washing items such as dishes, trays, labware, crockery, and kitchen utensils. A stack of objects to be washed (e.g., dishes) can be loaded into a dishwasher tub, which typically includes a rack and utensil holder, and washed in a wash cycle including a wash and rinse period. During the wash period, a wash mixture formed from water and dishwasher detergent is sprayed into the tub to spray onto the dishes. The wash mixture is then drained before the rinse period begins. During the rinse period, water is sprayed into the wash chamber to remove any residue of the wash mixture. After the rinse water is drained and the rinse period is complete, the dishes can optionally be dried using air and / or heat during a drying period. A dishwasher can have various user-selectable settings for each wash cycle. The settings can define, for example, the time, temperature, and repetitions for each of the wash, rinse, and dry periods. This setting also allows the user to select which periods to include (eg, rinse only, dry only, rinse and dry, or wash and rinse with no dry).

[0004] Dishwashers may include racks that allow various objects to be placed within the dishwasher and held in place during the wash cycle. Such racks may be built-in components of the dishwasher (e.g., slid out for loading dishes and slid in before starting the wash cycle) and / or removable racks that may be provided as dishwasher accessories for placement within the dishwasher after loading with objects to be washed. Examples of such racks include peg racks, each suitable for holding one or more specific types of items, such as glasses, cups, plates, trays, and / or silverware, and open racks suitable for holding items having shapes and / or sizes that are difficult to fit into peg racks.

[0005] A typical home dishwasher is an undercounter unit intended for installation under a countertop. Other types of dishwashers include industrial or commercial dishwashers for use in restaurants, hotels, and other commercial establishments with food and beverage service. The dishwasher detergents used in these dishwashers can contain chemicals capable of cleaning, sanitizing, and / or reducing the surface tension of water (and thus the droplets on dishes). Such dishwasher detergents are available in a variety of solid and liquid forms. Solid dishwasher detergents include chemicals available in solid block form, such as tablets of various shapes. Summary of the Invention

[0006] A device for dispensing detergent solution from a solid detergent into a dishwasher can be mounted to the rack around the periphery of the dishwasher rack and can collect water in the dishwasher and use the collected water to generate a detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent. In various embodiments, the device can include a detergent chamber for containing the solid detergent and, optionally, an end-of-detergent indicator that indicates the amount of solid detergent in the detergent chamber. In various embodiments, the release of the detergent solution can be controlled passively using the size of the liquid outlet or actively using sensed signals indicative of the operating status of the dishwasher and / or the concentration of detergent in the dishwasher water.

[0007] In one embodiment, the device is configured to attach to a dishwasher rack and dispense solid detergent. The rack is configured to be removably positioned within a dishwasher capable of performing a wash cycle. The device includes a frame, which may include an inner edge removably connected to the rack around the periphery of the rack, a detergent chamber for containing the solid detergent, a liquid inlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow a flow of water into the detergent chamber to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent therein, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow a flow of detergent solution out of the detergent chamber.

[0008] In one embodiment, a system is configured to dispense detergent solution from a solid detergent into a dishwasher capable of performing a wash cycle. The system may include a dishwasher rack and a frame. The dishwasher rack may be configured to be removably positioned within the dishwasher. The frame may include an inner edge connected to the rack around the periphery of the rack, a detergent chamber for containing the solid detergent, a liquid inlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow a flow of water into the detergent chamber to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent within the detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow a flow of detergent solution out of the detergent chamber.

[0009] In one embodiment, a method for operating a detergent dispensing system in a dishwasher is provided. The dishwasher can perform a wash cycle, each including a wash and a rinse period. The method can include holding a solid detergent in a detergent chamber inside a frame configured to be attached to a dishwasher rack. The rack can be removably positioned within the dishwasher. The frame can surround the periphery of the rack when attached to the rack. The method can further include collecting a portion of water sprayed into the dishwasher during the wash and rinse periods using a liquid inlet on the frame, forming a detergent solution in the detergent chamber by at least partially dissolving the solid detergent using the portion of the collected water, and releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber using a liquid outlet on the frame.

[0010] This Summary is an overview of some of the teachings of the present application and is not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustive treatment of the present subject matter. Further details regarding the present subject matter are found in the detailed description and appended claims. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] The drawings generally illustrate, by way of example, various embodiments discussed in the present document. The drawings are for illustration purposes only and may not be to scale.

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is an illustrative diagram showing one embodiment of a detergent dispenser mounted on a dishwasher rack within a dishwasher. FIG.

[0013] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a detergent dispenser, such as the detergent dispenser of FIG. 1.

[0014] [Figure 3]3 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a detergent chamber of a detergent dispenser such as the detergent dispenser of FIG. 2.

[0015] [Figure 4] 2 is a block diagram illustrating another embodiment of a detergent dispenser, such as the detergent dispenser of FIG. 1.

[0016] [Figure 5] 5 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of an end-of-detergent indicator of a detergent dispenser such as the detergent dispenser of FIG. 4.

[0017] [Figure 6] 2 is a block diagram illustrating another embodiment of a detergent dispenser, such as the detergent dispenser of FIG. 1.

[0018] [Figure 7] 7 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a dispensing control unit of a detergent dispenser such as the detergent dispenser of FIG. 6.

[0019] [Figure 8] 7 is a block diagram illustrating another embodiment of a dispensing control unit of a detergent dispenser such as the detergent dispenser of FIG. 6.

[0020] [Figure 9] Illustrative diagram of one embodiment of a detergent dispenser attached to a dishwasher rack, showing an exemplary implementation of the dishwasher rack of FIG. 1 and an exemplary implementation of the detergent dispenser of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 4, or FIG. 6.

[0021] [Figure 10] 10 is another perspective, illustrative view of the embodiment of FIG. 9, showing the detergent dispenser mounted on a dishwasher rack.

[0022] [Figure 11]11 is a side illustrative view of an embodiment of a detergent dispenser mounted on the dishwasher rack of FIGS. 9 and 10, showing one exemplary implementation of the detergent dispenser of FIG. 6. FIG.

[0023] [Figure 12] 12 is a cross-sectional illustrative view of an embodiment of the detergent dispenser of FIG. 11. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] The following detailed description of the present subject matter refers to subject matter in the accompanying drawings, which show, by way of illustration, specific aspects and embodiments in which the present subject matter may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present subject matter. References in this disclosure to "a," "one," or "various" embodiments do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, and such references contemplate multiple embodiments. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims, along with the full scope of legal equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0025] The present subject matter relates to methods and devices for dispensing solid detergent into a dishwasher, where each dose of solid detergent can last for multiple wash cycles. The dispenser can be configured as a frame that can be removably attached to a removable dishwasher rack. The solid detergent can be contained within the frame so that it is dissolved by water flowing through the frame during the wash and / or rinse cycles of the dishwasher to form a detergent solution. The release of the detergent solution can be passively controlled using the size of a liquid outlet on the frame, or actively controlled based on the operating conditions of the dishwasher or the sensed detergent concentration within the dishwasher.

[0026] In various embodiments, the dispenser is easy to use (e.g., substantially automatic detergent dispensing, with detergent dispensed between multiple wash cycles) while providing a substantially consistent amount and concentration of detergent solution for each wash cycle. The dispenser can be spatially and functionally retrofittable to a variety of dishwashers, including residential undercounter dishwashers to allow for the optional use of solid detergent blocks in addition to the existing options offered by built-in detergent dispensers.

[0027] Among other benefits, the dispenser eliminates the need to add dishwasher detergent before every wash cycle. It also increases the consistency of the concentration and amount of detergent dispensed by the system. Solid dishwasher detergent is a safer alternative to liquid forms because the solid form is more concentrated, does not pose a risk of spillage, and may not require personal protective equipment. Solid detergents also offer sustainability benefits of reduced packaging and water content, as well as smaller storage footprints at customer locations. Because the dispenser is not fixed to the dishwasher or rack, it can be easily removed to allow for any service operations (e.g., cleaning and / or sanitizing) of the dishwasher, rack, or the dispenser itself.

[0028] As used in this disclosure, in this application, the term "dishwasher" may also be referred to as a warewashing machine or warewashing machine and may include any type of washing machine capable of using detergents for cleaning and / or sanitizing purposes. An example is an undercounter dishwasher for washing dishes, flatware, pots and pans, cutlery, flatware, glasses, kitchen utensils, pans, trays, etc. Examples of commercially available dishwashing appliances may also use the present subject matter. A dishwasher includes a wash tub formed by the interior walls of the dishwasher and a door. In an example of an undercounter kitchen dishwasher, the door rotates up to approximately 90 degrees about a horizontal axis to switch between a fully closed position and a fully open position. The door has an interior and an exterior, both of which are substantially vertical when the door is fully closed and substantially horizontal when the door is fully open.

[0029] As used in this disclosure, a "dishwasher rack," which may also be referred to as an ware washing rack, may include, for example, any rack used in a dishwasher to hold any object to be washed. Unless otherwise stated, "rack" in this disclosure refers to a dishwasher rack. The rack may be a built-in part of the dishwasher or a removable accessory suitable for use in a dishwasher. The rack may be a peg rack or an open rack and may have any size and shape suitable for a dishwasher. Each dishwasher may include one or more built-in racks and / or may accommodate one or more removable racks.

[0030] As used in this disclosure, a "wash cycle" may include other periods, such as one or more of a wash period, a rinse period, and a drying period, depending on the settings made by the dishwasher user. The door is opened at least once between two consecutive wash cycles to allow loading of dishes and / or other objects to be washed and removal of washed dishes and / or other objects. "Washing" may include, for example, washing only, sanitizing only, or washing and sanitizing, depending on whether the solid detergent block is capable of washing only, sanitizing only, or washing and sanitizing. A "wash period" includes a period or mode of operation during which a wash mixture formed by water and detergent is applied to dishes and / or other objects. A "rinse period" includes a period or mode of operation during which water, or water and a chemical rinse aid and / or a chemical disinfectant, is applied to dishes and / or other objects. Some dishwashers (e.g., commercial dishwashers) may include a rinse period primarily for sanitizing by heat and / or chemical means. A "drying period" includes a period or mode of operation intended to dry washed dishes and / or other objects by airflow and / or heat without the application of additional water and / or detergent. A dishwasher may allow a user to select whether to include a drying period in a wash cycle, so that the user can open the dishwasher door and allow the washed and rinsed dishes to dry naturally, or remove the washed and rinsed dishes to another location for drying.

[0031] While application in a dishwasher is considered an example of the present subject matter, the present system for dispensing solid detergents can be applied in any washing machine that sprays water that can collect during the wash cycle to dissolve a portion of the solid detergent.

[0032] Figure 1 is an illustrative diagram showing one embodiment of a detergent dispenser 120 mounted on a dishwasher rack 110 within a dishwasher 100. As shown in Figure 1 for purposes of illustration and not limitation, the dishwasher 100 includes a wash tub 104 formed by an interior wall 106 and a door 102. The dishwasher 100 is capable of performing wash cycles that each include at least a wash and a rinse period.

[0033] The rack 110 can be used to hold objects to be washed in the dishwasher 100. The rack 110 can be fixed to the dishwasher 100 and positioned within the tub 104 (i.e., a built-in rack), or can be removably positioned within the dishwasher 100 (i.e., a removable rack). The dispenser 120 can be configured for use with the rack 110, such as being attached to the rack 110. In various embodiments, the rack 110 is a removable rack configured to be retrofittable to various existing dishwashers, and the dispenser 120 is configured to be removably attached to the rack 110, such that the assembly of the rack 110 and the dispenser 120 can be retrofitted to various existing dishwashers. Thus, the design of the dispenser 120 is subject to space constraints when attached to the rack 110 and placed in one of the existing dishwashers.

[0034] Although an embodiment including a dispenser removably attached to a removable rack is specifically discussed as an example, the present subject matter may apply to various other combinations of racks and dispensers (e.g., dispensers fixed to a removable rack, dispensers fixed to a built-in rack, or dispensers removably attached to a built-in rack). In various embodiments, the rack 110 and the dishwasher 100 may each have different spatial characteristics (e.g., different shapes and sizes), and the dispenser 120 may include various shapes and sizes designed for compatibility with various versions of the rack 110 and various models of the dishwasher 100.

[0035] 2 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a detergent dispenser 220. The dispenser 220 may represent an example of the dispenser 120 and may be configured to be mounted on the rack 110. The dispenser 220 includes a detergent chamber 224 for containing a solid detergent, a liquid inlet 222, and a liquid outlet 226. The liquid inlet 222 and the liquid outlet 226 are each in fluid communication with the detergent chamber 224. The liquid inlet 222 is configured and positioned on the dispenser 220 to collect water from the dishwasher 100 during the wash and rinse periods and allow the collected water to flow into the detergent chamber 224 to form a detergent solution by dissolving a portion of the solid detergent. The liquid outlet 226 is configured and positioned on the dispenser 220 to allow the formed detergent solution to flow from the detergent chamber 224 out of the dispenser 220.

[0036] Dispenser 220 is an example of a "passive" dispensing device in that the amount of solid detergent dispensed during each wash cycle is controlled by the size of liquid inlet 222 and liquid outlet 226. Liquid inlet 222 may include one or more holes in the top portion of the device, and liquid outlet 226 may include one or more holes in the bottom portion of the device. During the wash and rinse periods, water enters detergent chamber 224 through liquid inlet 222 and dissolves a portion of the solid detergent. The resulting detergent solution is released through liquid outlet 226. The amount of solid detergent dispensed depends on the amount of water entering detergent chamber 224 and the amount of detergent solution released from detergent chamber 224. Therefore, the number, size, and location of the holes can be determined to control the amount of solid detergent dispensed during each wash cycle.

[0037] 3 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a detergent chamber 324 of a detergent dispenser, such as detergent dispenser 220. Detergent chamber 324 may represent an example of detergent chamber 224 and may contain solid detergent 328. Solid detergent 328 may be a detergent, a detergent and rinse aid, a detergent, rinse aid, and salt (“3-in-1”), or any other chemical or combination of chemicals suitable for use in a dishwasher. In various embodiments, solid detergent 328 may be in the form of a tablet, pellet, block, or any form suitable for being contained in detergent chamber 324 and dissolved in an acceptable manner (e.g., erosion rate) within detergent chamber 324. In one embodiment, solid detergent 328 is an ash-based combination of chemical agents for high performance, single-pass dishwashing under a variety of conditions (e.g., various temperatures and / or water hardness).

[0038] 4 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a detergent dispenser 420. The dispenser 420 may represent another example of the dispenser 120 and may be configured to be mounted on the rack 110. The dispenser 420 is another example of a passive dispensing device and includes a detergent chamber 224, a liquid inlet 222, a liquid outlet 226, an end-of-detergent indicator 430, and, optionally, a power source 432. The end-of-detergent indicator 430 may indicate to a user of the dishwasher the need to refill the solid detergent. In one embodiment, the end-of-detergent indicator 430 includes a transparent window incorporated on the detergent chamber 224. The transparent window allows the user to view the amount of solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber 224. The power source 432 is not required in this embodiment. In another embodiment, the end-of-detergent indicator 430 generates an audible or visual alarm signal when the level of solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber 224 is substantially low (e.g., below a specified threshold level). The power supply 432 may include one or more batteries for powering the detergent out indicator 430 when needed for its operation. Thus, the dispenser 420 is essentially the dispenser 220 with the added functionality of indicating the need for detergent replenishment.

[0039] 5 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of an end-of-detergent indicator 530 for a detergent dispenser, such as detergent dispenser 420. The end-of-detergent indicator 530 may represent an example of the end-of-detergent indicator 430 and includes a detergent sensor 534. The detergent sensor 534 may sense a detergent level signal indicative of the level of solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber 224. One example of the detergent sensor 534 includes a photoelectric sensor that may detect the level of solid detergent by transmitting light through the detergent chamber 224, receiving the light, and using the received light to determine the presence or absence of solid detergent in the path of the light. The end-of-detergent indicator 530 may indicate the need for refilling in response to the detected level falling below a threshold level, for example, by generating an alarm (e.g., an audible or visual signal) that may be received by a user before the user initiates a new wash cycle.

[0040] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a detergent dispenser 620, such as the detergent dispenser of Figure 1. Dispenser 620 may represent another example of dispenser 120 and may be configured to be mounted on rack 110. Dispenser 620 includes detergent chamber 224, liquid inlet 222, liquid outlet 226, detergent end indicator 430, power source 432, and dispensing control unit 640. Dispensing control unit 640 may provide for controllable release of detergent solution from detergent chamber 224 through liquid outlet 226 into the dishwasher. Thus, dispenser 620 is essentially dispenser 420 with the added functionality of actively controlling the release of solid detergent. Depending on the design of the dispensing control unit 640, the dispenser 620 may be an example of a "semi-active" dispensing device in that the release of solid detergent is controlled by the operating conditions of the dishwasher during each wash cycle, as discussed further below with reference to FIG. 7, or an example of an "active" dispensing device in that the release of solid detergent is controlled by the detergent concentration in the water inside the dishwasher, as discussed further below with reference to FIG. 8.

[0041] 7 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a dispensing control unit 740 of a detergent dispenser, such as dispenser 620. Dispenser control unit 740 may represent an example of dispenser control unit 640 and may provide a detergent dispenser with "semi-active" dispensing control that controls the amount of detergent solution dispensed per wash cycle. In various embodiments, dispenser control unit 740 may detect and / or receive signals indicative of an operating state of a dishwasher, such as dishwasher 100. An operating state may include one or more periods of each wash cycle. For example, an operating state may include each of the wash, rinse, and dry periods, and may include the wash and rinse periods (i.e., when water is sprayed into the wash tub) as a single state.

[0042] The dispenser control unit 740 may be coupled between the detergent chamber 224 and the liquid outlet 226 to provide controllable release of detergent solution to the dispense 620 by controlling the flow of liquid from the detergent chamber 224 to the liquid outlet 226. The dispenser control unit 740 may include a valve 742, a valve controller 744, and a wash cycle detector 746. The valve 742 is coupled between the detergent chamber 224 and the liquid outlet 226 and is actuated by a release signal. In one embodiment, the valve 742 comprises a one-way valve (known as a check valve) that allows liquid flow only in the direction from the detergent chamber 224 to the liquid outlet 226. The valve controller 744 may generate the release signal using an operational status signal indicative of the dishwasher's operational status. The release signal causes the valve 742 to release a volume of detergent solution for each wash cycle of the dishwasher (e.g., by opening the valve 742 for a specified period of time). In various embodiments, the valve controller 744 can open the valve 742 for a programmed amount of time during each cleaning period, or during each cleaning period and each rinse period.

[0043] The wash cycle detector 746 can use any available means to detect the operating status signal. In various embodiments, the wash cycle detector 746 can include a sensor that senses a signal indicative of the operating status of the dishwasher. Examples of sensors can include one or any combination of an optical sensor, a flow sensor, and a temperature sensor. The optical sensor can sense light indicating that a dishwasher door (e.g., door 102 of dishwasher 100) is open. An open door indicates that the dishwasher is not operating between two wash cycles. The flow sensor can sense liquid flow within the dishwasher (e.g., through liquid inlet 222). The sensed liquid flow indicates that the dishwasher is in the wash or rinse period. The temperature sensor can sense the temperature inside the dishwasher. The sensed temperature can indicate each of the wash, rinse, and dry periods, depending on the temperature setting of the dishwasher, and can indicate when the dishwasher is not operating between two wash cycles. In some embodiments where one or more signals are available that indicate the operating status of the dishwasher (e.g., where the dishwasher can be remotely controlled using wireless transmission signals), the wash cycle detector 746 may include a receiver that receives the signals and detects the operating status from the received signals.

[0044] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a dispense control unit 840 of a detergent dispenser, such as dispenser 620. Dispenser control unit 840 may represent another example of dispenser control unit 640 and may provide the detergent dispenser with “active” dispensing control that controls the amount of detergent solution dispensed by sensing and maintaining the detergent concentration in the liquid inside a wash tub of a dishwasher, such as tub 104 in dishwasher 100. In various embodiments, dispenser control unit 840 may collect liquid from the wash tub and sense the conductivity of the collected liquid. The conductivity of the liquid is known to indicate the detergent concentration in the liquid. Dispenser control unit 840 may dispense detergent solution from detergent chamber 224 when the conductivity (and therefore the detergent concentration) is below a specified (e.g., empirically determined) threshold.

[0045] The dispenser control unit 840 may be coupled between the detergent chamber 224 and the liquid outlet 226 to provide the dispense 620 with a controllable release of detergent solution by controlling the flow of liquid from the detergent chamber 224 to the liquid outlet 226. The dispenser control unit 840 may include a valve 842, a valve controller 844, and a conductivity sensor 846. The valve 842 is coupled between the detergent chamber 224 and the liquid outlet 226 and is actuated by a release signal. In one embodiment, the valve 842 comprises a one-way valve (known as a check valve) that allows liquid flow only in a direction from the detergent chamber 224 to the liquid outlet 226. The valve controller 844 may generate the release signal using a concentration signal indicative of the concentration of detergent in the liquid collected from the wash tub of the dishwasher. For example, the valve controller 844 may generate the release signal when the concentration signal indicates that the detergent concentration is below a specified (e.g., empirically determined) threshold during a wash cycle, and stop generating the release signal when the concentration signal indicates that the detergent concentration reaches or exceeds the specified threshold, or when the dishwasher has not been running between two wash cycles. The valve 842 releases detergent solution from the detergent chamber 224 only when the release signal is present.

[0046] The conductivity sensor 846 can sense the conductivity of the liquid and generate a concentration signal indicative of the concentration of detergent in the liquid. In various embodiments, the conductivity sensor 846 is positioned to sense the conductivity of the liquid within the dishwasher outside of the detergent dispenser. For example, the conductivity sensor 846 can be positioned outside the detergent dispenser to receive liquid outside of the detergent dispenser, or it can be positioned within the detergent dispenser to receive liquid that enters the liquid inlet 222 before the liquid reaches the detergent chamber 224. The conductivity sensor 846 can sense the conductivity of the received liquid and generate a concentration signal. In various embodiments, instead of or in addition to sensing the conductivity of the liquid within the dishwasher outside of the detergent dispenser, the conductivity sensor 846 can be used to sense the conductivity of the liquid in the detergent chamber 224 and generate a concentration signal as an indication of the amount of solid detergent remaining on the detergent chamber 224. In such an embodiment, the detergent end indicator 430 may generate an audible or visual alarm signal in response to a concentration signal below a specified threshold (indicating that the detergent concentration in the detergent chamber 224 is below the threshold concentration).

[0047] Dispense control units 740 and 840 are considered by way of example, and not limitation, to illustrate how the release of detergent solution may be controlled within dispenser 620. Other examples may include combinations of these dispensing control unit features. For example, another example of dispensing control unit 640 may include both a wash cycle detector 746 and a conductivity sensor 846, such that the release signal may be a function of both the operating status signal and the concentration signal. This may allow dispensing control unit 640 to release detergent solution from detergent chamber 224, for example, during a wash period only, when the concentration signal indicates that the detergent concentration in the liquid is below a threshold.

[0048] Figure 9 is an illustrative view of an embodiment of a detergent dispenser 920 mounted on a dishwasher rack 910. Figure 10 is another perspective illustrative view of an embodiment of a dispenser 920 mounted on rack 910. Rack 910 represents an example of an implementation of rack 110. Dispenser 920 represents an example of an implementation of dispensers 120, 220, 420, and 620.

[0049] The rack 910 can be a rectangular rack (illustrated in FIG. 9 as a square open rack) having four side walls 912 and a bottom panel 914 coupled to the side walls 912. The bottom panel 914 has holes that allow the passage of liquid within the wash tub of the dishwasher during the wash and rinse periods. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom panel 914 is a mesh bottom panel. In various embodiments, the rack 910 can be an open rack or a peg rack and can have any shape and size suitable for placement in a dishwasher.

[0050] The dispenser 920 is configured to be attached to the rack 910 such that the dispenser 920 can move with the rack 910, thereby reducing undesired movement of the frame 920 during a wash cycle. The dispenser 920 may include a frame 950 configured to be attached to the rack 910 for its dispensing operation. The frame 950 includes an inner edge 956 that connects to the rack 910 around the periphery of the rack 910. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 950 has an upper portion 952 and a lower portion 954, the upper portion 952 having an inner edge 956 that surrounds the periphery of the bottom portion of the rack 910, thereby attaching the frame 950 to the bottom portion of the rack 910 (i.e., attached to the bottom portion of the side wall 912 adjacent the bottom panel 914). In various embodiments, the frame 950 may be removably attached to the bottom portion of the rack 910. The inner edge 956 may be removably connected to the rack 910 around the periphery of the rack 910. In one embodiment, frame 950 is a snap-on frame that can be attached using snaps to the bottom portion of rack 910. In various embodiments, frame 950 has a geometric design that is compatible with the geometric design of rack 910 and that, when used with rack 910, can be retrofitted to various dishwashers.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 950 is a hollow frame formed by frame walls having inner surfaces that define at least a portion of a detergent chamber 924 for containing solid detergent (e.g., in tablet or pellet form). The liquid inlet 922 is shown as a hole on the frame wall at the side of an upper portion 952 of the frame 950. The liquid outlet 926 is shown as a hole on the frame wall at the bottom of a lower portion 954 of the frame 950. For compatibility with the illustrated rack 910, the frame 950 has a rectangular shape (illustrated in FIG. 9 as a square shape) with four inner edges 956 connected to the bottom portions of the four side walls 912 of the rack 910 when the dispenser 920 is attached to the rack 910. Each side of the frame 950 is approximately 20-30 mm wide and 20-30 mm high, with the length and / or width depending on the length and / or width of the rack 910. The frame 950 does not have a bottom panel connected to the sides, thereby minimizing the effect on the movement of liquid through the rack 910 during washing and rinsing periods.

[0052] In various embodiments, the frame 950 includes the detergent chamber 924 and houses electronics and a power source, if necessary. For example, if the dispenser 220 is implemented as the dispenser 920, the detergent chamber 224 implemented as the detergent chamber 924 can occupy the entire interior space of the frame 950. If the dispenser 420 is implemented as the dispenser 920, the detergent chamber 224 implemented as the detergent chamber 924 can occupy the remaining interior space of the frame 950 after the detergent end indicator 430 and the power source 432 are housed therein. If the dispenser 620 is implemented as the dispenser 920, the detergent chamber 224 implemented as the detergent chamber 924 can occupy the remaining interior space of the frame 950 after the detergent end indicator 430, the power source 432, and the dispensing control unit 640 are housed therein. In various embodiments, the detergent chamber 924 is refillable, and the frame 950 includes a door (not shown) for adding solid detergent into the detergent chamber 924. The door can be securely closed after each refill of solid detergent. In various embodiments, the liquid inlet 922 and the liquid outlet 926 can each include one or more holes of any shape.

[0053] Figure 11 is an illustrative side view of one embodiment of a detergent dispenser 1120 mounted on a rack 910. Figure 12 is an illustrative cross-sectional view of the dispenser 1120. The dispenser 1120 represents an example of a dispenser 920 that is an implementation of the dispenser 620 (i.e., configured to include the components of the dispenser 620). The dispenser 1120 includes an inner edge 1156 that connects to the rack 910 around the periphery of the rack 910, thereby mounting the dispenser 1120 to the rack 910.

[0054] The dispenser 1120 includes a frame 1250 (e.g., implemented as frame 950) that can be attached to the rack 910. The frame 1250 includes four hollow sides and an interior space distributed among the four sides. The interior space includes: Detergent chambers 1224A and 1224B: examples of detergent chambers 224; Distribution control units 1240A and 1240B: examples of distribution control units 640; Detergent End Indicator 1230: an example of the detergent end indicator 430; Power supply 1232: an example of a power supply 432 that provides power to the detergent end indicator 1230 and dispensing control units 1240A and 1240B. It should be noted that the dispenser 1120 includes a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, electrical connections between various components, and fluid conduits between various components that are not visible in the cross-sectional view illustrated in Figure 12. It should also be noted that the illustrated embodiment includes two sets of detergent chambers and a dispensing control unit as specific examples of component arrangements. In various embodiments, the components of the detergent dispenser can be arranged in a variety of ways, including with various design constraints and considerations. [Example]

[0055] Some non-limiting examples (Examples 1-22) of the present subject matter are provided below.

[0056] In Example 1, a device is provided that is configured to attach to a dishwasher rack and dispense a solid detergent. The rack is configured to be removably positioned within a dishwasher capable of performing a wash cycle. The device includes a frame, which may include an inner edge removably connected to the rack around the periphery of the rack, a detergent chamber for containing the solid detergent, a liquid inlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow a flow of water into the detergent chamber to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent within the detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow a flow of detergent solution out of the detergent chamber.

[0057] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 can optionally be configured such that the frame is configured to be removably attached to the rack using snaps.

[0058] In Example 3, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 1 and 2 may optionally be configured such that the frame includes a hollow frame formed by frame walls having an inner surface defining a detergent chamber, and the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet each include one or more holes on the frame wall.

[0059] In Example 4, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 1-3 may optionally be configured such that the frame further includes a detergent end indicator including a transparent window incorporated over the detergent chamber to allow observation of the amount of solid detergent in the detergent chamber.

[0060] In Example 5, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 1-3 may optionally be configured such that the frame further includes an end-of-detergent indicator including a detergent sensor configured to sense a detergent level signal indicative of a level of solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber, the end-of-detergent indicator being configured to indicate the end of detergent in response to the sensed detergent level signal indicating that the level is below a threshold level.

[0061] In Example 6, the subject matter of Example 5 may optionally be configured such that the detergent sensor includes a conductivity sensor configured to sense a concentration signal indicative of a concentration of detergent in the detergent chamber, and the end-of-detergent indicator is configured to indicate the end of detergent in response to the sensed concentration signal falling below a threshold concentration.

[0062] In Example 7, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 1 to 6 may optionally be configured such that the frame further includes a dispensing control unit configured to actively control the volume of the flow of detergent solution exiting the detergent chamber.

[0063] In Example 8, the subject matter of Example 7 may optionally be configured such that the dispensing control unit includes a wash cycle detector configured to detect an operating status signal indicative of an operating status of the dishwasher, a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the valve configured to be actuated by a dispense signal, and a valve controller configured to use the sensed operating status signal to generate a dispense signal that causes the valve to dispense a specified volume of detergent solution for each wash cycle of the wash cycle.

[0064] In Example 9, the subject matter of Example 7 may be optionally configured such that the dispensing control unit includes a conductivity sensor configured to sense a concentration signal indicative of a concentration of detergent in the dishwasher, a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the valve configured to be actuated by a release signal, and a valve controller configured to generate the release signal when the sensed concentration signal indicates that the concentration is below a threshold concentration.

[0065] In Example 10, a system for dispensing detergent solution from a solid detergent into a dishwasher capable of performing a wash cycle is provided. The system may include a dishwasher rack and a frame. The dishwasher rack may be configured to be removably placed in the dishwasher. The frame may include an inner edge connected to the rack around the periphery of the rack, a detergent chamber for containing the solid detergent, a liquid inlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow water flow into the detergent chamber to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent in the detergent chamber, and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow detergent solution flow out of the detergent chamber.

[0066] In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 includes a detergent and a rinse aid, and can optionally be configured to further include a solid detergent in the form of a tablet or pellet.

[0067] In Example 12, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 10 and 11 is that the rack is a rectangular rack having four side walls and a bottom panel joined to the four side walls, and the frame may optionally be configured to include four inner edges each connected to a portion of one of the four side walls of the rack when the frame is attached to the rack.

[0068] In Example 13, the subject matter of Example 12 can optionally be configured such that the inner edge is configured to be removably connected to the rack around the periphery of the rack, such that the frame is configured to be removably attached to the rack.

[0069] In Example 14, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 10-13 may optionally be configured such that the frame further includes a dispensing control unit configured to controllably release detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet. The dispensing control unit includes: a wash cycle detector configured to detect an operating status signal indicative of an operating status of the dishwasher; a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the valve configured to be actuated by the release signal; and a valve controller configured to generate the release signal using the sensed operating status signal, the release signal causing the valve to release a specified volume of detergent solution for each wash cycle of the wash cycle.

[0070] In Example 15, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 10-13 may optionally be configured such that the frame further includes a dispensing control unit configured to controllably release a detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet. The dispensing control unit includes a conductivity sensor configured to sense a concentration signal indicative of a concentration of detergent in the dishwasher, a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet and actuated by the release signal, and a valve controller configured to generate the release signal when the sensed concentration signal indicates that the concentration is below a threshold concentration.

[0071] In Example 16, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 10-15 may optionally be configured such that the frame further includes an end-of-detergent indicator including a detergent sensor configured to sense a detergent level signal indicative of a level of solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber, the end-of-detergent indicator being configured to indicate the end of detergent in response to the sensed detergent level indicating that the level is below a threshold level.

[0072] In Example 17, a method of operating a detergent dispensing system in a dishwasher is provided. The dishwasher can perform a wash cycle, each including a wash and a rinse period. The method can include holding a solid detergent in a detergent chamber inside a frame configured to be attached to a dishwasher rack. The rack can be removably positioned within the dishwasher. The frame can surround the periphery of the rack when attached to the rack. The method can further include collecting a portion of water sprayed into the dishwasher during the wash and rinse periods using a liquid inlet on the frame, forming a detergent solution in the detergent chamber by at least partially dissolving the solid detergent using the collected portion of the water, and releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber using a liquid outlet on the frame.

[0073] In Example 18, the subject matter holding a solid detergent as in Example 17 can optionally include holding tablets or pellets of a detergent and rinse aid combination.

[0074] In Example 19, the subject matter of releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber, as found in any one or any combination of Examples 17 and 18, can optionally include releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber through one or more holes on the frame, the one or more holes being sized to control the volume of the formed detergent solution to be released.

[0075] In Example 20, the subject matter of releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber, as found in any one or any combination of Examples 17 and 18, may optionally include releasing a specified volume of detergent solution from the detergent chamber for each wash cycle.

[0076] In Example 21, the subject matter of releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber as found in any one or any combination of Examples 17 and 18 may optionally include using a sensor integrated within the frame to sense a conductivity signal indicative of the concentration of detergent in the liquid within the dishwasher, and using the conductivity signal to control the release of the detergent solution from the detergent chamber.

[0077] In Example 22, the subject matter of any one or any combination of Examples 17-21 can optionally further include monitoring a level of solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber and using a result of the monitoring to generate a detergent end alarm.

[0078] This application is intended to cover adaptations or variations of the present subject matter. It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not limiting. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of legal equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

1. 1. A device configured to be attached to a dishwasher rack and to dispense a solid detergent, the rack being configured to be removably positioned within a dishwasher capable of performing a wash cycle, the device comprising: A frame, an inner edge removably connected to the rack around the periphery of the rack; a detergent chamber for containing the solid detergent; a liquid inlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow a flow of water into the detergent chamber to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent within the detergent chamber; An apparatus comprising a frame including a liquid outlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow flow of the detergent solution out of the detergent chamber.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the frame is configured to be removably attached to the rack using snaps.

3. 3. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the frame comprises a hollow frame formed by a frame wall having an inner surface that defines the detergent chamber, and the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet each comprise one or more holes on the frame wall.

4. 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the frame further comprises a detergent end indicator including a transparent window incorporated over the detergent chamber to allow observation of the amount of the solid detergent in the detergent chamber.

5. 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the frame further comprises an end-of-detergent indicator including a detergent sensor configured to sense a detergent level signal indicative of the level of the solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber, the end-of-detergent indicator being configured to indicate end-of-detergent in response to the sensed detergent level signal indicating that the level is below a threshold level.

6. 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the detergent sensor comprises a conductivity sensor configured to sense a concentration signal indicative of the detergent concentration in the detergent chamber, and the end-of-detergent indicator is configured to indicate the end of detergent in response to the sensed concentration signal being less than a threshold concentration.

7. The device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the frame further comprises a dispensing control unit configured to actively control the volume of the flow of the detergent solution exiting the detergent chamber.

8. The distribution control unit a wash cycle detector configured to detect an operating status signal indicative of an operating status of the dishwasher; a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the valve being configured to be actuated by a release signal; 8. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising: a valve controller configured to use the sensed operating condition signal to generate the dispense signal, the dispense signal causing the valve to dispense a specified volume of the detergent solution for each wash cycle of the wash cycles.

9. The distribution control unit a conductivity sensor configured to sense a concentration signal indicative of the concentration of the detergent in the dishwasher; a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the valve being configured to be actuated by a release signal; 8. The apparatus of claim 7, comprising: a valve controller configured to generate the release signal when the sensed concentration signal indicates that the concentration is below a threshold concentration.

10. 1. A system for dispensing a detergent solution from a solid detergent into a dishwasher capable of performing a wash cycle, the system comprising: a dishwasher rack configured to be removably positioned within the dishwasher; A frame, an inner edge connected to the rack around the periphery of the rack; a detergent chamber for containing the solid detergent; a liquid inlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow a flow of water into the detergent chamber to at least partially dissolve the solid detergent within the detergent chamber; a liquid outlet in fluid communication with the detergent chamber to allow flow of the detergent solution out of the detergent chamber.

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

12. 12. The system of claim 10 or 11, wherein the rack is a rectangular rack having four side walls and a bottom panel connected to the four side walls, and the frame includes four inner edges each connected to a portion of one of the four side walls of the rack when the frame is attached to the rack.

13. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the inner edge is configured to be removably connected to the rack around the periphery of the rack, such that the frame is configured to be removably attached to the rack.

14. The frame further comprises a dispensing control unit configured to controllably release the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet, the dispensing control unit comprising: a wash cycle detector configured to detect an operating status signal indicative of an operating status of the dishwasher; a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the valve being configured to be actuated by a release signal; 14. The system of claim 10, further comprising: a valve controller configured to use the sensed operating condition signal to generate the dispense signal, the dispense signal causing the valve to dispense a specified volume of the detergent solution for each wash cycle of the wash cycles.

15. The frame further comprises a dispensing control unit configured to controllably release the detergent solution from the detergent chamber to the liquid outlet, the dispensing control unit comprising: a conductivity sensor configured to sense a concentration signal indicative of the concentration of the detergent in the dishwasher; a valve coupled between the detergent chamber and the liquid outlet, the valve being actuated by a discharge signal; and a valve controller configured to generate the release signal when the sensed concentration signal indicates that the concentration is below a threshold concentration.

16. 16. The system of claim 10, wherein the frame further comprises an end-of-detergent indicator including a detergent sensor configured to sense a detergent level signal indicative of the level of the solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber, the end-of-detergent indicator configured to indicate end-of-detergent in response to the sensed detergent level indicating that the level is below a threshold level.

17. 1. A method for operating a detergent dispensing system in a dishwasher capable of performing wash cycles each including a wash and a rinse period, the method comprising: holding a solid detergent within a detergent chamber inside a frame configured to be attached to a dishwasher rack, the frame surrounding a periphery of the rack when the rack is removably positioned within the dishwasher and attached to the rack; using a liquid inlet on the frame to collect a portion of the water sprayed into the dishwasher during the washing and rinsing periods; forming a detergent solution in the detergent chamber by at least partially dissolving the solid detergent using a portion of the collected water; and expelling the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber using a liquid outlet on the frame.

18. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein retaining the solid detergent comprises retaining tablets or pellets of a detergent and rinse aid combination.

19. 19. The method of claim 17 or 18, wherein releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber comprises releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber through one or more holes on the frame, the one or more holes being sized to control the volume of the formed detergent solution released.

20. 19. The method of claim 17 or 18, wherein releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber comprises releasing a specified volume of the detergent solution from the detergent chamber for each of the wash cycles.

21. releasing the formed detergent solution from the detergent chamber; sensing a conductivity signal indicative of the concentration of the detergent in the liquid within the dishwasher using a sensor integrated within the frame; and using the conductivity signal to control the release of the detergent solution from the detergent chamber.

22. monitoring the level of the solid detergent remaining in the detergent chamber; The method of any one of claims 17 to 21, further comprising: using the results of said monitoring to generate a detergent end alarm.

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