Modular dishwasher tray

Abstract

A dishwasher is provided. The dishwasher includes a body, a door, a rack assembly, and a rack insert. The body defines a dishwashing volume. The door is hingedly coupled to the body and movable between an opened position and a closed position. The rack assembly is slidably inserted into the body and includes a rack frame, a first tray, and a second tray. The first tray is coupled to the rack frame. The second tray is movably coupled to the rack frame and slidable to selectively define an opening in the rack assembly. The rack insert is removably inserted into the opening in the rack frame.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 791,135, filed Apr. 18, 2025, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.BACKGROUND

[0002] The present application relates generally to the field of dishwashers. More specifically, the present application relates to a dishwasher with a modular rack assembly.SUMMARY

[0003] One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a dishwasher. The dishwasher includes a body, a door, a rack assembly, and a rack insert. The body defines a dishwashing volume. The door is hingedly coupled to the body and movable between an opened position and a closed position. The rack assembly is slidably inserted into the body. The rack insert includes a rack frame, a first tray, and a second tray. The first tray is coupled to the rack frame. The second tray is movably coupled to the rack frame and slidable to selectively define an opening in the rack assembly. The rack insert is removably inserted into the opening and supported by the rack frame.

[0004] In some embodiments, the second tray is slidable between a first position and a second position. The second tray is disposed adjacent the first tray when in the first position and the second tray is disposed above the first tray when in the second position. In some such embodiments, the rack frame comprises a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The first side defines a first channel, and the second side defines a second channel. The second tray includes a first roller coupled to a first side of the second tray and positioned within the first channel, and a second roller coupled to a second side of the second tray and positioned within the second channel. In some such embodiments, the first side of the rack frame defines a third channel, and the second side of the rack frame defines a fourth channel. The second tray further includes a third roller coupled to the first side of the second tray and positioned within the third channel, and a fourth roller coupled to the second side of the second tray and positioned within the fourth channel.

[0005] In some embodiments, the rack insert includes a plurality of walls extending to define a wash volume in which larger kitchenware may be placed for cleaning. In some such embodiments, each of the plurality of walls defines a plurality of apertures through which fluid may enter or exit the wash volume. In some such embodiments, the rack insert has a depth that is greater than a depth of the first tray and a depth of the second tray. In some embodiments the rack insert includes a first bracket projecting from a first wall of the plurality of walls and extending along a length of an upper edge of the first wall of the plurality of walls, and a second bracket projecting from a second wall of the plurality of walls and extending along a length of an upper edge of the second wall of the plurality of walls. The first bracket and the second bracket are configured to support the rack insert on the rack frame. In some such embodiments, the first bracket defines a channel configured to selectively engage a portion of the rack frame. In some such embodiments, the rack insert further includes a third bracket projecting from a third wall of the plurality of walls and extending along a length of an upper edge of the third wall of the plurality of walls, and a fourth bracket projecting from a fourth wall of the plurality of walls and extending along a length of an upper edge of the fourth wall of the plurality of walls. The third bracket and the fourth bracket are configured to support the rack insert on the rack frame.

[0006] One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a dishwasher rack assembly. The dishwasher rack assembly includes a frame, a first shelf, a second shelf, and a shelf insert. The frame is configured to be slidably inserted into and removed from a dishwasher. The first shelf is fixedly coupled to the frame and configured to support kitchenware for cleaning. The second shelf is slidably coupled to the frame and movable to selectively define an aperture in the dishwasher rack assembly. The shelf insert is removably disposed within the aperture and defines a volume in which larger kitchenware may be placed for cleaning.

[0007] In some embodiments, the second shelf is movable between a first position and a second position. The second shelf is adjacent the first shelf when in the first position, and the second shelf is above the first shelf when in the second position. In some such embodiments, the frame includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The first side defines a first race, and the second side defines a second race. The second shelf includes a first stud and a second stud. The first stud projects from a first side of the second shelf and is positioned within the first race. The second stud projects from a second side of the second shelf and is positioned within the second race. In some such embodiments, the first side of the frame defines a third race, and the second side of the frame defines a fourth race. The second shelf further includes a third stud and a fourth stud. The third stud projects from the first side of the second shelf and is positioned within the third race. The fourth stud projects from the second side of the second shelf and is positioned within the fourth race.

[0008] In some embodiments, the shelf insert includes a plurality of sides defining a basket. In some such embodiments, each of the plurality of sides defines a plurality of openings through which fluid may enter or exit the volume during washing of kitchenware placed therein. In some such embodiments, the shelf insert has a depth greater than a depth of the first shelf and a depth of the second shelf. In some such embodiments, the shelf insert includes a first bracket and a second bracket. The first bracket projects from a first side of the plurality of sides. The second bracket projects from a second side of the plurality of sides. The first bracket and the second bracket are configured to support the shelf insert on the frame. In some such embodiments, the first bracket defines a channel configured to selectively engage an upper portion of the frame. In some such embodiments, the shelf insert further includes a third bracket and a fourth bracket. The third bracket projects from a third side of the plurality of sides. The fourth bracket projects from a fourth side of the plurality of sides. The third bracket and the fourth bracket are configured to support the shelf insert on the frame.

[0009] This summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other aspects, inventive features, and advantages of the devices or processes described herein will become apparent in the detailed description set forth herein, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The disclosure will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, in which:

[0011] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a dishwasher, the dishwasher includes a modular dishwasher rack assembly configured to receive a removable rack insert, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a modular dishwasher rack assembly, the modular dishwasher rack assembly includes a first tray and a second tray, the second tray is slidable to selectively define an opening for a rack insert, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the modular dishwasher rack assembly of FIG. 2 with the second tray positioned to define an opening for a rack insert, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the modular dishwasher rack assembly of FIG. 2 with the second tray removed from a frame of the dishwasher rack assembly, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a removable rack insert, the rack insert is configured to be removably inserted into the modular dishwasher rack assembly of FIG. 2, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of the modular dishwasher rack assembly of FIG. 2 with the second tray positioned to define an opening for a rack insert and the rack insert positioned to be inserted into the opening, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of the modular dishwasher rack assembly of FIG. 2 with the second tray positioned to define an opening for a rack insert and the rack insert positioned within the opening, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 7B is a rear perspective view of the modular dishwasher rack assembly of FIG. 2 with the second tray positioned to define an opening for a rack insert and the rack insert positioned within the opening, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 8 is a flow chart of a method for configuring the modular dishwasher rack assembly of FIG. 2 for use with the removable rack insert of FIG. 5, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0020] FIG. 9 is a flow chart of a method for configuring the modular dishwasher rack assembly of FIG. 2 for use without the removable rack insert of FIG. 5, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Before turning to the figures, which illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0022] A dishwasher may be equipped with a shallow cutlery rack (e.g., a utensil rack, a silverware rack, etc.) positioned above other racks within the dishwasher and especially adapted to support small cutlery (e.g., forks, spoons, knives, etc.) during cleaning. The placement of the cutlery rack above the other racks improves utilization of the space within the dishwasher, while the shallow depth of the cutlery rack ensures unobstructed use of the other racks. However, the shallow depth of the cutlery rack, and its adaptation to support small cutlery, limits the utility of the cutlery rack.

[0023] Referring generally to the FIGURES, a modular dishwasher rack assembly is provided. The modular dishwasher rack assembly includes a tray (e.g., a cutlery tray) that may be moved (e.g., slid) or removed to create a space for a basket-like rack insert. The rack insert is sized and configured to receive and support kitchenware that is too large to fit on the tray (e.g., spatulas, brushes, scrapers, tongs, etc.). The rack insert is removable so that it may be inserted when needed and removed, to ensure unobstructed use of the other racks below the modular dishwasher rack assembly, when it is not. Accordingly, the modular dishwasher rack assembly disclosed herein provides the improved space utilization of a shallow cutlery rack with the flexibility to accommodate larger kitchenware when needed.

[0024] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, and as shown in FIG. 1, a dishwasher 10 includes a body 12, one or more dishwasher racks 14, and a door 16. The body 12 of the dishwasher 10 includes one or more parts that, in combination, define a dishwashing volume 18 in which kitchenware may be placed for cleaning. By way of example, the body 12 of the dishwasher 10 may be singly formed (e.g., of a polymer, a composite material, etc.). By way of another example, the body 12 of the dishwasher may be formed of several panels (e.g., steel panels, stainless steel panels, aluminum panels, etc.) joined together to form a singular body defining the dishwashing volume 18. By way of still another example, the body 12 of the dishwasher 10 may include a singularly formed interior sleave defining the dishwashing volume 18 supported by one or more exterior panels joined together to form a singular body. The body 12 of the dishwasher may be insulated to mitigate noise produced by operation of the dishwasher 10. The body 12 may be sized and shaped to fit under a counter or between cabinets in a kitchen.

[0025] The body 12 of the dishwasher 10 may additionally house or support various fluid handling components (e.g., fittings, tubes, pipes, pumps, sprayers, spray heads, filters, etc.) configured to, in combination, receive water, or other washing fluid, into the dishwashing volume 18, to circulate water about the dishwashing volume 18 to clean kitchenware disposed therein, and to drain water from the dishwashing volume 18. The body 12 of the dishwasher 10 may additionally house or support a heater configured to heat water received into the dishwashing volume 18, to aid in the cleaning of kitchenware disposed therein, and / or to heat the dishwashing volume 18 itself, to dry kitchenware disposed therein after washing. The body 12 of the dishwasher 10 may additionally house or support various control components (e.g., controllers, sensors, user interface devices, etc.) to control the operation of the dishwasher 10 according to the dishwashing requirements of a user of the dishwasher 10.

[0026] Each of the one or more dishwasher racks 14 is configured to support and separate kitchenware within the dishwashing volume 18. Each of the one or more dishwasher racks 14 may include tines or prongs to engage kitchenware placed on each of the one or more dishwasher racks 14. Each of the one or more dishwasher racks 14 may be configured and positioned within the dishwashing volume 18 to accommodate different types of kitchenware, or kitchenware of different sizes. For example, a first dishwasher rack may be positioned near a bottom of the dishwashing volume 18 and configured to support larger kitchenware (e.g., pots, pans, plates, bowls, etc.). A second dishwasher rack may be positioned above the first dishwasher rack within the dishwashing volume 18 and be configured to support kitchenware of an intermediate size (e.g., cups, glasses, etc.). A third dishwasher rack may be positioned above the second dishwasher rack near a top of the dishwashing volume 18 and be configured to support small kitchenware (e.g., cutlery, utensils, etc.).

[0027] Each of the one or more dishwasher racks 14 may be configured to be slidably insertable into, and removable from, the dishwashing volume 18 to aid in the placement of kitchenware onto, and the removal of kitchenware from, each of the one or more dishwasher racks 14. Each of the one or more dishwasher racks 14 may include one or more rollers configured to engage with guides coupled to the body 12 of the dishwasher and disposed within the dishwashing volume 18. The rollers and guides may ensure proper placement of each of the one or more dishwasher racks 14 within the dishwashing volume 18 of the dishwasher 10. The rollers and guides may further promote the easy insertion of each of the one or more dishwasher racks 14 into, and removal from, the dishwashing volume 18. Each of the one or more dishwasher racks 14 may have a handle for manipulating each of the one or more dishwasher racks 14.

[0028] The door 16 of the dishwasher 10 is hingedly coupled to the body 12 and movable (e.g., rotatable) between an opened position and closed position. When the door 16 is in the closed position, the door 16 encloses the dishwashing volume 18 to contain water or other washing fluid within the dishwashing volume 18 while kitchenware placed therein is being washed. When the door 16 is in the opened position, the dishwashing volume 18 may be accessed to place kitchenware therein for cleaning, or to remove kitchenware therefrom after cleaning. The door 16 may include a seal (e.g., a gasket) configured to engage with the body 12 of the dishwasher10 when the door 16 is in the closed position to prevent water or other washing fluid from escaping the dishwashing volume 18. The door 16 may further include a locking mechanism (e.g., a latch) configured to secure the door 16 in the closed position and to prevent the inadvertent opening of the door 16, either from operation of the dishwasher 10 itself or by a user of the dishwasher 10.

[0029] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, and as shown in FIG. 2, at least one of the one or more dishwasher racks 14 of the dishwasher 10 is configured as a modular dishwasher rack assembly 210. The modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 may include a rack frame 212, a first tray 214 (e.g., a first shelf), and a second tray 216 (e.g., a second shelf). The rack frame 212 may have multiple sides that together define a structure configured to support the first tray 214 and the second tray 216. By way of example, the rack frame 212 may have a first side 218 (e.g., a front side), a second side 220 (e.g., a rear side), a third side 222 (e.g., a left side), and a fourth side 224 (e.g., a right side). In this example, the second side 220 is disposed opposite from the first side 218. The third side 222 extends between first ends (e.g., left ends) of the first side 218 and the second side 220. The fourth side 224 extends between second ends (e.g., right ends) of the first side 218 and the second side 220. The fourth side 224 is disposed opposite the third side 222.

[0030] The rack frame 212 may be singly formed (e.g., of a plastic, of a composite material, etc.). The rack frame 212 may alternatively be assembled from multiple components. For example, and as shown in FIG. 2, the first side 218 and the second side 220 may be molded plastic components, and the third side 222 and the fourth side 224 may be coated (e.g., painted, powder coated, etc.) metal components (e.g., welded steel wire structures). The rack frame 212 is configured to be slidably inserted into, and slidably removed from, the dishwashing volume 18 defined by the body 12 of the dishwasher 10. The rack frame 212 may include one or more rollers 226 positioned on the third side 222 and the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212 and configured to engage with guides disposed within the dishwashing volume 18 defined by the body 12 of the dishwasher 10.

[0031] The first tray 214 is coupled (e.g., fixedly coupled) with the rack frame 212 and is configured to support kitchenware placed thereon for cleaning. The first tray 214 may be positioned, and extend, between the first side 218 and the second side 220 of the rack frame 212. The first tray 214 may additionally be positioned adjacent the third side 222 of the rack frame 212. The first tray 214 may occupy approximately one half of the area between the first side 218, the second side 220, the third side 222, and the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212. The first tray 214 may be positioned near a bottom of the rack frame 212. The first tray 214 may have multiple projections 228 (e.g., tines, prongs, etc.) to engage with and separate kitchenware placed on the first tray 214. The multiple projections 228 may be sized and positioned to support and separate cutlery (e.g., knives, spoons, forks, etc.). The first tray 214 may defined multiple apertures 230 through which water, or other washing fluid, may pass during the cleaning of kitchenware placed on the first tray 214.

[0032] The second tray 216 is coupled (e.g., slidably coupled, movably coupled, removably coupled, etc.) to the rack frame 212 and is configured to support kitchenware placed thereon for cleaning. The second tray 216 may be positioned, and extend, between the first side 218 and the second side 220 of the rack frame 212. The second tray 216 may additionally be positioned adjacent the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212. The second tray 216 may occupy approximately half of the area between the first side 218, the second side 220, the third side 222, and the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212. The second tray 216 may be positioned near a bottom of the rack frame 212. The second tray 216 may have multiple projections 232 (e.g., tines, prongs, etc.) to engage with and separate kitchenware placed on the second tray 216. The multiple projections 232 may be sized and positioned to support and separate cutlery (e.g., knives, spoons, forks, etc.). The second tray 216 may define multiple apertures 234 through which water, or other washing fluid, may pass during the cleaning of kitchenware placed on the second tray 216.

[0033] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, and as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the second tray 216 is slidably coupled to the rack frame 212 and is movable and / or removable to selectively define an opening 312 (e.g., an aperture) in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 in which a rack insert (e.g., a tray insert) may be positioned. In some embodiments, and as best shown in FIG. 3, the second tray 216 may be movable between a first position and a second position. The first position may be adjacent the first tray 214 and the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212. The second position may be above the first tray 214 and adjacent the third side 222 of the rack frame 212. When the second tray 216 is in the second position, the opening 312 for a rack insert is defined between the first side 218 of the rack frame 212, the second side 220 of the rack frame 212, the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212, the first tray 214, and the second tray 216.

[0034] In some embodiments, the first side 218 of the rack frame 212 may define a first channel (not shown) (e.g., a race, a groove, etc.) extending horizontally along approximately half of a length of the first side 218. The second side 220 of the rack frame 212 may define a second channel 314 extending horizontally along approximately half of a length of the second side 220. The second tray 216 may include a first projection 316 (e.g., a roller, a stud, etc.) coupled to, or otherwise extending from, a first side (e.g., a front side) of the second tray 216 and positioned within the first channel. The second tray 216 may further include a second projection 318 (e.g., a roller, a stud, etc.) coupled to, or otherwise extending from, a second side of the second tray 216 and positioned within the first channel. The first projection 316 is sized and configured so that it is movable along a length of the first channel. The second projection 318 is sized and configured so that it is movable along a length of the second channel 314. This arrangement allows the second tray 216 to be slidable between the first position adjacent the first tray 214 and the second position above the first tray 214, while still being supported by the rack frame 212.

[0035] In some embodiments, the first channel extends along approximately half of the length of the first side 218 of the rack frame 212 and the second channel 314 extends along approximately half of the length of the second side 220 of the rack frame 212. The first side 218 of the rack frame 212 further defines a third channel (not shown) extending horizontally along approximately half of the length of the first side 218. The second side 220 of the rack frame 212 further defines a fourth channel 320 extending horizontally along approximately half of the length of the second side 220. A portion of the first channel and a portion of the third channel may be colinear. A portion of the second channel 314 and a portion of the fourth channel 320 may also be colinear. The second tray 216 further includes a third projection 322 coupled to, or otherwise extending from, the first side of the second tray 216 and positioned within the third channel. The second tray 216 further includes a fourth projection 324 coupled to, or otherwise extending from, the second side of the second tray 216 and positioned within the fourth channel 320. The first projection 316 and the third projection 322 may be coupled to the second tray 216 proximate opposite ends of the second tray 216. The second projection 318 and the fourth projection 324 may be coupled to the second tray 216 proximate opposite ends of the second tray 216. The third projection 322 is sized and configured so that it is movable along a length of the third channel. The fourth projection 324 is sized and configured so that it is movable along a length of the fourth channel 320. This arrangement allows the second tray 216 to be moved between the first position adjacent the first tray 214 and the second position above the first tray 214, while still being supported by the rack frame 212.

[0036] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, and as best shown in FIG. 4, the second tray 216 is removable from the rack frame 212. The first channel and the third channel may extend through a top edge of the first side 218 of the rack frame 212 so that the first projection 316 may pass out of the first channel and the third projection 322 may pass out of the third channel. The second channel 314 and the fourth channel 320 may similarly extend through a top edge of the second side 220 of the rack frame 212 so that the second projection 318 may pass out of the second channel 314 and the fourth projection 324 may pass out of the fourth channel 320. Accordingly, when the second tray 216 is in the second position above the first tray 214, the second tray 216 may be lifted out of the rack frame 212. Similarly, the second tray 216 may be reinserted into the rack frame 212 by realigning the first projection 316 with the portion of the first channel that passes through the top edge of the first side 218 of the rack frame 212, the second projection 318 with the portion of the second channel 314 that passes through the top edge of the second side 220 of the rack frame 212, the third projection 322 with the portion of the third channel that passes through the top edge of the first side 218 of the rack frame 212, and the fourth projection 324 with the portion of the fourth channel that passes through the top edge of the second side 220 of the rack frame 212.

[0037] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, and as shown in FIG. 5, a rack insert 510 defines a wash volume 512 (e.g., a wash basket, a wash bin, etc.) that is sized and configured to support kitchenware that is too large to fit on the first tray and / or the second tray 216 (e.g., spatulas, tongs, brushes, scrapers, etc.). In some embodiments, the rack insert 510 is a singly formed component. For example, the rack insert 510 may be a singly formed polymer component produced by an injection molding process. In other embodiments, the rack insert 510 includes multiple separately formed parts coupled together to form the rack insert 510 described herein. For example, the rack insert may include multiple stamped or bent metal parts, fastened together to form the rack insert 510 described herein.

[0038] The rack insert 510 may have multiple walls (e.g., sides, panels, etc.) that together define the wash volume 512. For example, the rack insert 510 may have a first wall 514 (e.g., a front wall) and a second wall 516 (e.g., a rear wall) disposed opposite the first wall 514. The rack insert 510 may further include a third wall 518 (e.g., a left wall) extending between first ends (e.g. left ends) of the first wall 514 and the second wall 516. The rack insert 510 may further include a fourth wall 520 extending between second ends (e.g., right ends) of the first wall 514 and the second wall 516. The fourth wall 520 may be disposed opposite the third wall 518. The rack insert 510 may further include a fifth wall 522 (e.g., a bottom wall) extending between bottom portions (e.g., bottom edges) of the first wall 514, the second wall 516, the third wall 518, the fourth wall 520, and the fifth wall 522. Together, the first wall 514, the second wall 516, the third wall 518, the fourth wall 520, and the fifth wall 522 define the wash volume 512. Each of the multiple walls (e.g., each of the first wall 514, the second wall 516, the third wall 518, the fourth wall 520, and the fifth wall 522) may define multiple apertures 524 (e.g., openings, holes, perforations, etc.) through which water, or other washing fluid, may enter and exit the wash volume during cleaning of kitchenware placed therein.

[0039] The rack insert 510 may have a first bracket 526 (e.g., a front bracket) and a second bracket 528 (e.g., a rear bracket), each projecting from one of the multiple walls of the rack insert 510 and configured to support the rack insert 510 on the rack frame 212 and within the opening 312 selectively defined in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210. The first bracket 526 and the second bracket 528 may project from opposite walls of the rack insert 510. For example, the first bracket 526 may project from the first wall 514, and the second bracket 528 may project from the second wall 516. The first bracket 526 may project from an upper edge of the first wall 514 and extend along a length of the upper edge of the first wall 514. Similarly, the second bracket 528 may project from an upper edge of the second wall 516 and extend along a length of the upper edge of the second wall 516.

[0040] The rack insert 510 may additionally have a third bracket 530 (e.g., a left bracket) and a fourth bracket 532 (e.g., a right bracket), each projecting from one of the multiple walls of the rack insert 510 and configured to support the rack insert 510 on the rack frame 212 and within the opening 312 selectively defined in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210. The third bracket 530 and the fourth bracket 532 may project from opposite walls of the rack insert 510. For example, the third bracket 530 may project from the third wall 518, and the fourth bracket 532 may project from the fourth wall 520. The third bracket 530 may project from an upper edge of the third wall 518 and extend along a length of the upper edge of the third wall 518. Similarly, the fourth bracket 532 may project from an upper edge of the fourth wall 520 and extend along a length of the upper edge of the fourth wall 520.

[0041] In some embodiments, one of the brackets (e.g., the first bracket 526, the second bracket 528, the third bracket 530, the fourth bracket 532) defines a channel (e.g., a groove, a recess, etc.) to selectively engage a portion of the rack frame 212 to retain the rack insert 510 in a fixed position within the opening 312 selectively defined in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210. For example, and as shown in FIG. 5, the fourth bracket 532 defines a first channel 534 in an under side of the fourth bracket 532. The first channel 534 is sized and shaped to receive, or otherwise engage, a portion of the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212 as the rack insert 510 is positioned within the opening 312. The first channel 534 may extend along an entire length of the fourth bracket 532.

[0042] In some embodiments, a second one of the brackets (e.g., the first bracket 526, the second bracket 528, the third bracket 530, the fourth bracket 532) defines a second channel (e.g., a groove, a recess, etc.) to selectively engage a portion of the rack frame 212 to retain the rack insert 510 in a fixed position within the opening 312 selectively defined in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210. For example, and as shown in FIG. 5, the third bracket 530 defines a second channel 536 in an under side of the third bracket 530. The second channel 536 may extend along an entire length of the third bracket 530. The second channel 536 may also be sized and shaped to receive, or otherwise engage, a portion of the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212 as the rack insert is positioned within the opening 312. This configuration allows the rack insert 510 to be inserted with either the third wall 518 or the fourth wall 520 toward the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212, while still engaging a portion of the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212 to prevent lateral movement of the rack insert 510 and maintain the rack insert 510 in a fixed position within the opening 312.

[0043] In some embodiments, at least one of the brackets (e.g., the first bracket 526, the second bracket 528, the third bracket 530, the fourth bracket 532) defines a notch 538 that is sized and shaped to receive a protrusion extending upward from one of the first side 218, the second side 220, the third side 222, or the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212, to maintain the rack insert 510 in a fixed position within the opening 312 in the rack frame 212. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 5, the notch 538 is defined at a corner of the rack insert 510, between two abutting brackets (e.g., between the first bracket 526 and the third bracket 530, between the first bracket 526 and the fourth bracket 532, between the second bracket 528 and the third bracket 530, or between the second bracket 528 and the fourth bracket 532). In some embodiments, a notch 538 is defined at each corner of the rack insert 510 and between each pair of abutting brackets (e.g., between the first bracket 526 and the third bracket 530, between the first bracket 526 and the fourth bracket 532, between the second bracket 528 and the third bracket 530, and between the second bracket 528 and the fourth bracket 532).

[0044] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, and as shown in FIGS. 6-7B, the rack insert 510 is sized and shaped to be removably inserted into, and occupy, the opening 312 selectively defined in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210. The rack insert 510 may be insertable into the opening 312 from a top side of the rack frame 212. When the rack insert 510 is inserted into the opening 312, the rack insert may be supported on the rack frame 212 and maintained in position within the opening 312 by the brackets (e.g., the first bracket 526, the second bracket 528, the third bracket 530, and / or the fourth bracket 532) of the rack insert 510.

[0045] In some embodiments, and as best shown in FIG. 6, the rack insert 510 and the opening 312 may be shaped so that the rack insert 510 is insertable into the opening 312 at specific orientations relative to the opening 312. For example, in some embodiments, the third wall 518 and the fourth wall 520 of the rack insert 510 are longer than the first wall 514 and the second wall 516, giving the rack insert 510 a rectangular shape. In such embodiments, the rack insert 510 may be placed into the opening 312 with the first wall 514 of the rack insert 510 oriented toward the first side 218 of the rack frame, the second wall 516 of the rack insert 510 oriented toward the second side 220 of the rack frame 212, the third wall 518 of the rack insert 510 oriented toward the third side 222 of the rack frame 212, and the fourth wall 520 of the rack insert 510 oriented toward the fourth side 224 of the rack frame. The rack insert 510 may also be placed into the opening 312 with the first wall 514 of the rack insert 510 oriented toward the second side 220 of the rack frame 212, the second wall 516 of the rack insert 510 oriented toward the first side 218 of the rack frame, the third wall 518 of the rack insert 510 oriented toward the fourth side 224 of the rack frame, and the fourth wall 520 of the rack insert 510 oriented toward the third side 222 of the rack frame 212.

[0046] Referring now to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the rack insert 510 is shown inserted into the opening 312 selectively defined in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210. In some embodiments, when the rack insert 510 is inserted into the opening 312, the first bracket 526 of the rack insert 510 rests on the first side 218 of the rack frame 212, and the second bracket 528 rests on the second side 220 of the rack frame 212, supporting the rack insert 510 therebetween and within the opening 312. The fourth bracket 532 of the rack insert 510 further rests on the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212, providing additional support to the rack insert 510. A portion (e.g., an upper portion) of the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212 is disposed within the first channel 534 defined by the fourth bracket 532, preventing lateral movement (e.g., movement in a direction extending between the third side 222 of the rack frame 212 and the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212) of the rack insert 510, thus maintaining the rack insert 510 in a fixed position within the opening 312.

[0047] In some embodiments, the rack insert 510 and / or the wash volume 512 defined by the rack insert 510 have a depth (e.g., a distance between a top of the rack frame 212 and the fifth wall 522 of the rack insert 510) that is greater than a depth of the first tray 214 and / or the second tray 216 (e.g., a distance between a top of the rack frame 212 and a top side of the first tray 214 and / or the second tray 216). As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the fifth wall 522 of the rack insert 510 is disposed below the first tray 214 and the second tray 216 while inserted into the opening 312. In one embodiment, the rack insert 510 may have a depth of between two inches and four inches. In another embodiment, the rack insert 510 may have a depth of between 2.5 inches and 3.5 inches. In still another embodiment, the rack insert 510 may have a depth of approximately three inches. In still another embodiment, the rack insert 510 may have a depth of approximately 3.15 inches. In some embodiments, the rack insert 510 may have a depth sufficient for larger utensils (e.g., spatulas, brushes, tongs, scrapers, etc.) to fit within the wash volume 512 defined by the rack insert 510. In one embodiment, the rack insert 510 may have a length (e.g., a distance between the first wall 514 and the second wall 516) of between 14 inches and 18 inches. In another embodiment, the rack insert 510 may have a length of between 15 inches and 17 inches. In still another embodiment, the rack insert 510 may have a length of approximately 16 inches. In still another embodiment, the rack insert 510 may have a length of approximately 16.98 inches. In one embodiment, the rack insert 510 may have a width (e.g., a distance between the third wall518 and the fourth wall 520) of between six inches and 9.5 inches. In another embodiment, the rack insert 510 may have a width of between seven inches and 8.5 inches. In still another embodiment, the rack insert 510 may have a width of approximately 7.75 inches. In still another embodiment, the rack insert 510 may have a width of approximately 8.66 inches.

[0048] In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, and as shown in FIG. 8, a method 800 of configuring the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 for use with the rack insert 510 is provided. The method 800 includes the step of sliding the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 out of the body 12 of the dishwasher 10, at operation 810. Sliding the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 out of the body 12 of the dishwasher 10 may include first moving the door 16 of the dishwasher 10 from the closed position to the opened position. Moving the door 16 of the dishwasher 10 from the closed position to the opened position may include first actuating a locking mechanism to an unlocked position so that the door 16 may be moved from the closed position to the opened position.

[0049] The method 800 may include the step of defining an opening for the rack insert 510, at operation 812. The step of defining an opening for the rack insert 510 may include sliding the second tray 216 from the first position adjacent the first tray 214 to the second position above the first tray 214 to selectively define the opening 312 in which the rack insert 510 may be positioned. The step of defining an opening for the rack insert 510 may further include removing the second tray 216 from the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210. The step of defining an opening for the rack insert 510 may include first removing any kitchenware disposed on either the first tray 214 and the second tray 216 before sliding the second tray 216 to the second position above the first tray 214 or removing the second tray 216 from the rack frame 212.

[0050] The method 800 may include the step of positioning the rack insert 510 into the opening 312 selectively defined in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210, at operation 814. Positioning the rack insert 510 into the opening 312 may include orienting the rack insert 510 so that the rack insert 510 may be positioned within the opening 312. Orienting the rack insert 510 so that it may be positioned within the opening 312 may include orienting the first wall 514 of the rack insert 510 toward the first side 218 of the rack frame, the second wall 516 of the rack insert 510 toward the second side 220 of the rack frame 212, the third wall 518 of the rack insert 510 toward the third side 222 of the rack frame 212, and the fourth wall 520 of the rack insert 510 toward the fourth side 224 of the rack frame 212. Orienting the rack insert 510 so that it may be positioned within the opening 312 may alternatively include orienting the first wall 514 of the rack insert 510 toward the second side 220 of the rack frame 212, the second wall 516 of the rack insert 510 toward the first side 218 of the rack frame, the third wall 518 of the rack insert 510 toward the fourth side 224 of the rack frame, and the fourth wall 520 of the rack insert 510 toward the third side 222 of the rack frame 212. Positioning the rack insert 510 into the opening 312 selectively defined in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 may include placing kitchenware into the wash volume 512 defined by the rack insert 510.

[0051] The method 800 may also include the step of sliding the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 into the body 12 of the dishwasher 10, at operation 816. Sliding the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 into the body 12 of the dishwasher 10 may include moving the door 16 of the dishwasher 10 from the opened position to the closed position after the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 has been slid into the body 12. Sliding the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 into the body 12 of the dishwasher 10 may include actuating a locking mechanism to secure the door 16 of the dishwasher 10 to the body 12. The method 800 may further include providing one or more user input via one or more user input device to begin a wash cycle.

[0052] In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, and as shown in FIG. 9, a method 900 of configuring the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 for use without the rack insert 510 is provided. The method 900 includes the step of sliding the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 out of the body 12 of the dishwasher 10, at operation 910. Sliding the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 out of the body 12 of the dishwasher 10 may include first moving the door 16 of the dishwasher 10 from the closed position to the opened position. Moving the door 16 of the dishwasher 10 from the closed position to the opened position may include first actuating a locking mechanism to an unlocked position so that the door 16 may be moved from the closed position to the opened position.

[0053] The method 900 may also include the step of removing the rack insert 510 from the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210, at operation 912. Removing the rack insert 510 from the modular dishwasher rack assembly may include first removing items of kitchenware disposed within the wash volume 512 defined by the rack insert 510. Removing the rack insert 510 from the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 may include lifting the rack insert 510 out of the opening defined by sliding the second tray 216 to the second position above the first tray 214 or by removing the second tray 216 from the rack frame 212. Removing the rack insert 510 from the modular dishwasher rack assembly may include removing items of kitchenware disposed within the wash volume 512 defined by the rack insert 510.

[0054] The method 900 may also include the step of closing the opening 312 selectively defined in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210, at operation 914. The step of closing the opening 312 defined in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 may include first reinserting the second tray 216 into the rack frame 212. The step of closing the opening 312 defined in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 may include sliding the second tray 216 from the second position above the first tray 214 to the first position adjacent the first tray 214. The step of closing the opening 312 defined in the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 may include placing kitchenware onto the first tray 214 and / or the second tray 216.

[0055] The method 900 may also include the step of sliding the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 into the body 12 of the dishwasher 10, at operation 916. Sliding the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 into the body 12 of the dishwasher 10 may include moving the door 16 of the dishwasher 10 from the opened position to the closed position after the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 has been slid into the body 12. Sliding the modular dishwasher rack assembly 210 into the body 12 of the dishwasher 10 may include actuating a locking mechanism to secure the door 16 of the dishwasher 10 to the body 12. The method 900 may further include providing one or more user input via one or more user input device to begin a wash cycle.

[0056] It should be noted that although method steps may be described in a specific order, it is understood that the order of these steps may differ from what is described. In a non-limiting example, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Also, some method steps that are performed as discrete steps may be combined, steps being performed as a combined step may be separated into discrete steps, the sequence of certain processes may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete processes may be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any element or apparatus may be varied or substituted according to alternative embodiments. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims. It is understood that all such variations are within the scope of the disclosure.

[0057] While this specification contains many specific embodiment details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any inventions or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments of the systems and methods described herein. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments may also be embodied in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment may also be embodied in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination may in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

[0058] Having now described some illustrative embodiments and embodiments, it is apparent that the foregoing is illustrative and not limiting, having been presented by way of example. In particular, although many of the examples presented herein involve specific combinations of method acts or system elements, those acts and those elements may be combined in other ways to accomplish the same objectives. Acts, elements, and features discussed only in connection with one embodiment are not intended to be excluded from a similar role in other embodiments.

[0059] The phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,”“comprising,”“having,”“containing,”“involving,”“characterized by,”“characterized in that,” and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter, equivalents thereof, and additional items, as well as alternate embodiments consisting of the items listed thereafter exclusively. In one embodiment, the systems and methods described herein consist of one, each combination of more than one, or all of the described elements, acts, or components.

[0060] As utilized herein with respect to numerical ranges, the terms “approximately,”“about,”“substantially,”“essentially,” and similar terms generally mean± / −10% of the disclosed values. When the terms “approximately,”“about,”“substantially,”“essentially,” and similar terms are applied to a structural feature (e.g., to describe its shape, size, orientation, direction, etc.), these terms are meant to cover minor variations in structure that may result from, for example, the manufacturing or assembly process and are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

[0061] Any references to embodiments or elements or acts of the systems and methods herein referred to in the singular may also embrace embodiments including a plurality of these elements, and any references in plural to any embodiment or element or act herein may also embrace embodiments including only a single element. References in the singular or plural form are not intended to limit the presently disclosed systems or methods, their components, acts, or elements to single or plural configurations. References to any act or element being based on any information, act, or element may include embodiments where the act or element is based at least in part on any information, act, or element.

[0062] Any embodiment disclosed herein may be combined with any other embodiment, and references to “an embodiment,”“some embodiments,”“an alternate embodiment,”“various embodiments,”“one embodiment,” or the like are not necessarily mutually exclusive and are intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment. Such terms as used herein are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Any embodiment may be combined with any other embodiment, inclusively or exclusively, in any manner consistent with the aspects and embodiment disclosed herein.

[0063] It should be noted that the terms “exemplary” and “example” as used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, and / or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such term is not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).

[0064] The terms “coupled,”“connected,”“mounted,” and the like, as used herein, mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent, etc.) or moveable (e.g., removable, releasable, etc.). Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another.

[0065] References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,”““bottom,”“above,”“below,”“between,” etc.) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the figures. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0066] References to “or” may be construed as inclusive so that any terms described using “or” may indicate any of a single, more than one, and all of the described terms.

[0067] Where technical features in the drawings, detailed description or any claim are followed by reference signs, the reference signs have been included for the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility of the drawings, detailed description, and claims. Accordingly, neither the reference signs nor their absence have any limiting effect on the scope of any claim elements.

[0068] The foregoing description of embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from this disclosure. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principals of the disclosure and its practical application to enable one skilled in the art to utilize the various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and embodiment of the embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as expressed in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A dishwasher comprising:a body defining a dishwashing volume;a door hingedly coupled to the body and movable between an opened position and a closed position;a rack assembly slidably inserted into the body, the rack assembly comprising:a rack frame;a first tray coupled to the rack frame; anda second tray movably coupled to the rack frame and slidable to selectively define an opening in the rack assembly; anda rack insert removably inserted into the opening and supported by the rack frame.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein:the second tray is slidable between a first position and a second position;the second tray is disposed adjacent the first tray when in the first position; andthe second tray is disposed above the first tray when in the second position.

3. The dishwasher of claim 2, wherein:the rack frame comprises:a first side defining a first channel; anda second side opposite the first side, the second side defining a second channel; andthe second tray comprises:a first roller coupled to a first side of the second tray and positioned within the first channel; anda second roller coupled to a second side of the second tray and positioned within the second channel.

4. The dishwasher of claim 3, wherein:the first side of the rack frame defines a third channel;the second side of the rack frame defines a fourth channel; andthe second tray comprises:a third roller coupled to the first side of the second tray and positioned within the third channel; anda fourth roller coupled to the second side of the second tray and positioned within the fourth channel.

5. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the rack insert comprises a plurality of walls extending to define a wash volume in which larger kitchenware may be placed for cleaning.

6. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein each of the plurality of walls defines a plurality of apertures through which fluid may enter or exit the wash volume.

7. The dishwasher of claim 6, wherein the rack insert has a depth that is greater than a depth of the first tray and a depth of the second tray.

8. The dishwasher of claim 7, wherein the rack insert further comprises:a first bracket projecting from a first wall of the plurality of walls and extending along a length of an upper edge of the first wall of the plurality of walls; anda second bracket projecting from a second wall of the plurality of walls and extending along a length of an upper edge of the second wall of the plurality of walls;wherein the first bracket and the second bracket are configured to support the rack insert on the rack frame.

9. The dishwasher of claim 8, wherein the first bracket defines a channel configured to selectively engage a portion of the rack frame.

10. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the rack insert further comprises:a third bracket projecting from a third wall of the plurality of walls and extending along a length of an upper edge of the third wall of the plurality of walls; anda fourth bracket projecting from a fourth wall of the plurality of walls and extending along a length of an upper edge of the fourth wall of the plurality of walls;wherein the third bracket and the fourth bracket are configured to support the rack insert on the rack frame.

11. A dishwasher rack assembly comprising:a frame configured to be slidably inserted into and removed from a dishwasher;a first shelf fixedly coupled to the frame and configured to support kitchenware for cleaning;a second shelf slidably coupled to the frame and movable to selectively define an aperture in the dishwasher rack assembly; anda shelf insert removably disposed within the aperture and defining a volume in which larger kitchenware may be placed for cleaning.

12. The dishwasher rack assembly of claim 11, wherein:the second shelf is movable between a first position and a second position;the second shelf is adjacent the first shelf when in the first position; andthe second shelf is above the first shelf when in the second position.

13. The dishwasher rack assembly of claim 12, wherein:the frame comprises:a first side defining a first race; anda second side opposite the first side, the second side defining a second race; andthe second shelf comprises:a first stud projecting from a first side of the second shelf and positioned within the first race; anda second stud projecting from a second side of the second shelf and positioned within the second race.

14. The dishwasher rack assembly of claim 13, wherein:the first side of the frame defines a third race;the second side of the frame defines a fourth race; andthe second shelf comprises:a third stud projecting from the first side of the second shelf and positioned within the third race; anda fourth stud projecting from the second side of the second shelf and positioned within the fourth race.

15. The dishwasher rack assembly of claim 11, wherein the shelf insert comprises a plurality of sides defining a basket.

16. The dishwasher rack assembly of claim 15, wherein each of the plurality of sides defines a plurality of opening through which fluid may enter or exit the volume during washing of kitchenware placed therein.

17. The dishwasher rack assembly of claim 16, wherein the shelf insert has a depth greater than a depth of the first shelf and a depth of the second shelf.

18. The dishwasher rack assembly of claim 17, wherein the shelf insert comprises:a first bracket projecting from a first side of the plurality of sides; anda second bracket projecting from a second side of the plurality of sides;wherein the first bracket and the second bracket are configured to support the shelf insert on the frame.

19. The dishwasher rack assembly of claim 18, wherein the first bracket defines a channel configured to selectively engage an upper portion of the frame.

20. The dishwasher rack assembly of claim 19, wherein the shelf insert further comprises:a third bracket projecting from a third side of the plurality of sides; anda fourth bracket projecting from a fourth side of the plurality of sides;wherein the third bracket and the fourth bracket are configured to support the shelf insert on the frame.

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