Articles treatment machine with water distributor

Abstract

The invention provides an articles treatment machine (2), in particular a dishwasher. The machine comprises: a cabinet, a tub (8) for washing articles therein and being arranged in the cabinet, a sump (20) for collecting washing liquid from the tub (8), a tank assembly (42, 42a) comprising a heat exchanger (48) having a first passage (52) and a second passage (50) being in heat-exchanging contact with each other and a water tank (44) for storing fresh water and having a tank outlet (73), a softener assembly (40) adapted for softening of water flowing therethrough, and a water distributor (100, 100a) having a housing (101, 140) and within the housing a plurality of fluid flow channels (102-106) separated from each other, each of the fluid flow channels having a fluid inlet (102a, 103a, 104a, 105a, 106a, 108) and a fluid outlet (102b, 103b, 104b, 105b, 106b) at the housing. A first fluid flow channel (104) extends between a first fluid inlet (104a) and a first fluid outlet (104b) of the water distributor, wherein the first fluid inlet (104a) is fluidly connected to an outlet at the sump (20) and the first fluid outlet (104b) is fluidly connected to an inlet of the first passage (52) through the heat exchanger. The water distributor (100, 100a) is mechanically attached to the tank assembly (42, 42a), wherein at least one outlet (102b, 104b, 105b, 106b) or inlet (103a) of the plurality of fluid flow channels (102-106) is mechanically engaged to an inlet (128a-d) or outlet (127) of the tank assembly, wherein in particular the first fluid outlet (104b) of the first fluid flow channel (104) is mechanically engaged to an inlet (128b) of the tank assembly.

Description

[0001] Articles treatment machine with water distributor

[0002] The present invention relates to an articles treatment machine, in particular a dishwasher, having a water distributor.

[0003] DE 10 2019 119 807 A discloses a dishwasher having a first water tank, a second water tank connected to the first water tank and a heat exchanger, wherein an outlet of the second water tank is fluidly connected to the heat exchanger and the sump via a switching valve.

[0004] It is an object of the invention to provide an articles treatment machine having simplified hydraulic assembling steps in the assembling of the articles treatment machine.

[0005] The invention is defined in independent claim 1. Particular embodiments are set out in the dependent claims.

[0006] According to claim 1, an articles treatment machine, in particular a dishwasher, is provided. The machine comprises: a cabinet, a tub for washing articles therein and being arranged in the cabinet, a sump for collecting washing liquid from the tub, a tank assembly comprising a heat exchanger having a first passage and a second passage being in heat-exchanging contact with each other and a water tank for storing fresh water and having a tank outlet, a softener assembly adapted for softening of water flowing therethrough, and a water distributor having a housing and within the housing a plurality of fluid flow channels separated from each other, each of the fluid flow channels having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet at the housing. A first fluid flow channel extends between a first fluid inlet and a first fluid outlet of the water distributor. The first fluid inlet is fluidly connected to an outlet at the sump and the first fluid outlet is fluidly connected to an inlet of the first passage through the heat exchanger (i.e. the water distributor is arranged upstream of the first passage of the heat exchanger). The water distributor is mechanically attached to the tank assembly, wherein at least one outlet or inlet of the plurality of fluid flow channels is mechanically engaged to an inlet (passage inlet) or outlet (passage outlet) of the tank assembly. In particular, the first fluid outlet of the first fluid flow channel is mechanically engaged to an inlet of the tank assembly. Preferably the tank assembly comprises a plurality of fluid passages for guiding liquids and being separated from each other, wherein each fluid passage has a passage inlet and passage outlet providing a liquid passage through the tank housing.

[0007] The mechanical attachment of the water distributor to the tank assembly and the mechanical engagement between the at least one outlet or inlet of the water distributor and the inlet or outlet of the tank assembly simplifies the assembly of the water distributor and the hydraulic connection between the plurality of fluid flow channels of the water distributor and the inlet and outlets of the tank assembly. In particular, the connection of the first fluid flow channel to the heat exchanger in the tank assembly is simplified. In particular, no piping is required between the water distributor and the tank assembly - i.e. a 'direct' hydraulic coupling between the inlets and outlets of the water distributor and the inlets and outlets in the tank assembly is provided. Thus, assembling and maintenance time is optimized. Moreover the number of fluid connections is reduced by direct coupling and thus the risk of potential leakage and / or the volume required for establishing hydraulic connections is reduced.

[0008] The first fluid flow channel is guiding used washing liquid (for example washing liquid with cleaning or rinsing agent) from the sump to the heat exchanger, preferably from the sump to the first passage in the heat exchanger. Further preferred and when in use the washing liquid passed through the first fluid flow channel is heated washing water (having higher temperature as compared to fresh water coming from the mains).

[0009] "Mechanically engaged" preferably means that each one of the at least one inlet or outlet of each fluid flow channel of the water distributor is in direct contact with the corresponding or associated one of the at least one outlet or inlet of the tank assembly. In particular, the at least one inlet or outlet of each fluid flow channel of the water distributor is preferably directly connected to the tank assembly, i.e. without a piping between the water distributor and the tank assembly. Preferably the inlets and outlets of the water distributor are spatially coupled to respective outlets and inlets of the tank assembly.

[0010] Preferably and in addition to the first fluid flow channel, the inlet or outlet of one or two or three or more than three of the fluid flow channels of the water distributor are mechanically engaged to a respective or associated outlet or inlet of the tank assembly. During the assembly of the articles treatment machine the hydraulic connection between the tank assembly and the water distributor is simplified as no separate piping is required and the number of fluid connections is reduced. The housing of the water distributor may be covered by a cover element. In particular, the cover element may form one side wall of the fluid flow channels within the housing when being mounted. The cover element is preferably mounted watertight to the housing. The cover element may be connected to the housing by e.g. (ultrasonic) welding or gluing. Thus, leakage of water at the water distributor housing can be prevented.

[0011] Preferably at least a portion of the water distributor extends laterally from the tank assembly, wherein the first fluid inlet or the first fluid outlet is arranged within said portion of the water distributor. "At least a portion of the water distributor extends laterally from the tank assembly" preferably means that the portion of the water distributor extends into the interior of the basement and / or between the tank assembly and an opposing side wall of the cabinet or basement.

[0012] The portion of the water distributor extending laterally from the tank assembly, in which the first fluid inlet or outlet is arranged, simplifies the assembly of the first fluid flow channel to the heat exchanger. In particular, the inlets and outlets of the fluid flow channels that are not mechanically engaged with the tank assembly are easier to access.

[0013] Preferably the water distributor is arranged at least partially below the tank assembly and / or at least a portion of the water distributor is arranged laterally at the lower region of the tank assembly.

[0014] The tank assembly may extend between the tub and the cabinet along a vertical plane and the housing of the water distributor or at least a portion of the housing of the water distributor extends along a second plane being perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the vertical plane. Preferably the water distributor is arranged below the tub, and / or at least a portion of the water distributor, preferably the entire water distributor, is arranged between the softener assembly and a rear wall of the cabinet.

[0015] The softener assembly is preferably arranged below the tub and / or arranged below or at least partially below the tank assembly. The softener assembly preferably comprises a salt and resin container, wherein the fresh water from the water mains is guided either through the resin container (for softening the fresh water), or, if a regeneration of the resin in the resin container is necessary, through the salt container and then through the resin container (or at least one part of the fresh water is guided through the salt container and then through the resin and another part is directly guided through the resin container). In particular, fresh water from the mains is guided through a second fluid flow channel of the water distributor which is fluidly connected to the softener assembly (described below). A valve element such as an ON / OFF valve may be provided upstream of the salt container. Thus, fresh water is only guided through the salt container if a regeneration of the resin within the resin container is necessary.

[0016] By providing the water distributor between the softener assembly and the rear wall of the cabinet, the space within the basement can be used efficiently.

[0017] The water distributor may be mechanically attached to a side wall of the tank assembly or is mechanically attached from below to the tank assembly.

[0018] Preferably the water distributor is mechanically attached to the tank assembly by a detachable connection such as a screw connection. Alternatively or additionally, the water distributor is permanently connected to the tank assembly such as by welding or gluing. "Permanently connected" preferably means that the water distributor and the tank assembly can only be detached from each other by destruction.

[0019] Both types of connection may be provided for the mechanical attachment of the water distributor to the tank assembly. In particular, the water distributor is mechanically connected to the tank assembly by a detachable (screw) connection and a permanent connection such as welding, for example ultrasonic welding, or gluing. This ensures a watertight connection between the fluid flow channels of the water distributor and the inlets and outlets of the tank assembly.

[0020] Preferably all inlets and outlets of the fluid flow channels that are arranged at one side or top wall of the water distributor are mechanically engaged to mating outlets and inlets of the tank assembly. If only inlets or only outlets are provided at the side or top wall of the water distributor, only those are mechanically engaged.

[0021] The inlets and outlets of the tank assembly and the inlets and outlets of the water distributor may be sealingly engaged to each other via hydraulic engaging connections preferably comprising gaskets.

[0022] Preferably an inlet or outlet of each fluid flow channel of the water distributor mechanically engaged to an inlet and / or outlet of the tank assembly is arranged in a first region of the housing, and an inlet or outlet of each fluid flow channel of the water distributor (i.e. outlets or inlets of the fluid flow channels which are not mechanically engaged to the inlets and outlets of the tank assembly) is arranged in a second region of the housing opposite to the first region. Preferably said first region engages a connection region of the tank assembly where inlets and / or outlets of the tank assembly are provided.

[0023] Preferably at least one inlet or outlet of the fluid flow channels (not mechanically engaged to the inlets and outlets of the tank assembly) faces the softener assembly and / or at least one inlet or outlet of the fluid flow channels faces the rear wall of the dishwasher. More preferably the first fluid inlet of the first fluid flow channel faces the softener assembly.

[0024] Preferably a second fluid inlet of a second fluid flow channel (described below) faces the rear wall of the dishwasher (i.e. is arranged on a side wall of the housing of the water distributor opposite to the side wall at which the first fluid inlet is arranged). A third fluid inlet of a third fluid flow channel and / or a fourth fluid inlet of a fourth fluid flow channel and / or a fifth fluid outlet of a fifth fluid flow channel (described below) may face the softener assembly.

[0025] Preferably the first fluid inlet or outlet and / or the third fluid inlet and / or the fifth fluid outlet are arranged on the same side of the housing of the water distributor. In case the water distributor comprises a three-way valve (described below), the water distributor may comprise a fluid inlet which is fluidly connected to an outlet of the softener assembly and to the third and fourth fluid flow channel via the three-way valve.

[0026] Preferably the housing of the water distributor is plate-shaped or substantially plate-shaped and the housing of the water distributor is oriented vertically or substantially vertically (when considering the normal operation position of the machine). In particular, the housing of the water distributor extends in a vertical plane which is parallel or substantially parallel to the rear wall of the dishwasher's cabinet. Such arrangement of the water distributor allows the available space in the basement to be used more efficiently.

[0027] Each inlet and outlet of the plurality of fluid flow channels which are mechanically engaged to inlets or outlets of the tank assembly may extend in a horizontal or substantially horizontal direction. In particular, all inlets and outlets of the water distributor are oriented horizontally or substantially horizontally. Preferably each inlet and / or outlet of the plurality of fluid flow channels which is not mechanically engaged to inlets or outlets of the tank assembly (namely one or more or all of: the first fluid inlet, the second fluid inlet, the third fluid inlet, the fourth fluid inlet, and the fifth fluid outlet) extends in a horizontal plane in a direction perpendicular to the inlets and / or outlets of the plurality of fluid flow channels which are mechanically engaged to inlets or outlets of the tank assembly.

[0028] Preferably the inlets and outlets of the tank assembly are arranged in a lower lateral region (area) of the tank assembly, preferably below the heat exchanger. The inlets and outlets of the tank assembly may be arranged one above the other or are substantially arranged one above the other in the lateral region in one or two vertical rows. Alternatively or additionally, a group of passage inlets and / or outlets of the tank assembly (preferably all inlets and / or outlets of the tank assembly) may be arranged at a side wall of the tank assembly and are arranged vertically aligned in such a way that the horizontal spacing between the centers of the passage inlets and / or outlets of the group of the tank assembly is less than 10 cm, 5 cm or 3 cm or the centers are vertically aligned or substantially vertically aligned.

[0029] Due to the group of tank inlets and / or outlets arranged at a side wall vertically aligned, it is not necessary to provide vertical downwards extending stubs at the bottom of the tank assembly which would require bending hoses for the fluid connection. Therefore, more space is available at the basement of the articles treatment machine and / or the tank assembly can be extended further downwards.

[0030] Preferably the group of passage inlets and / or passage outlets is arranged at a front, middle or rear region of the tank assembly, in particular is arranged close to a side edge of the tank assembly housing. The group of passage inlets and / or passage outlets of the tank assembly is arranged at a lower region of the tank assembly, in particular is arranged close to a bottom edge of the tank assembly housing.

[0031] "Front, middle or rear region of the tank assembly" refers to a spatial orientation when the machine is seen from a front view and the tank assembly is positioned laterally within the cabinet. The front region of the tank assembly is a region which faces the front wall of the machine and the rear region of the tank assembly is a region which faces a rear wall of the machine, the middle region is a region between the front and rear region of the tank assembly.

[0032] Preferably each fluid passage of a group of fluid passages of the tank assembly, which are associated to said group of passage inlets and / or passage outlets, are guided to a side region of the tank assembly where the group of passage inlets and / or passage outlets are arranged. In particular, the fluid passages extend in an inclined downwards direction to a lower region of the tank assembly where the group of passage inlets and / or passage outlets are arranged.

[0033] Preferably the tank assembly has in its lower region a downwards tapering extension in at least one dimension, wherein the tapering section has an extension of at least 8 cm, 14 cm or 20 cm in vertical height, wherein more preferably the lower region tapers towards one side edge in which the inlets and outlets of the tank assembly are arranged. By the tapering shape of the lower region of the tank assembly, a bottom region of the basement remains unoccupied by the tank assembly and other components, such as e.g. the softener assembly, can be positioned at the unoccupied space. Further, by the downward tapering expansion previously unoccupied space (or space previously occupied by vertical hose connections) can be accessed and the passage inlets and / or outlets are available for the lateral arrangement of the water distributor.

[0034] Alternatively to the attachment of the water distributor to a side wall of the tank assembly, at least a portion of the water distributor may be attached to the tank assembly from below. The housing of the water distributor may comprise a first portion and a second portion connected to the first portion, wherein the first portion is the portion extending laterally from the tank assembly, and the inlet and / or outlet of the water distributor mechanically engaged to inlets and / or outlets of the tank assembly are arranged on a top wall of the second portion of the housing. Preferably the second portion of the housing is mechanically attached from below to the tank assembly.

[0035] The inlet and outlets of the tank assembly may be arranged at a bottom region of the tank assembly. The inlets and outlets of the tank assembly may extend downwardly from the tank assembly, preferably are oriented vertically or substantially vertically.

[0036] Preferably the first portion extends perpendicular or substantially perpendicular from the second portion into the interior of the basement.

[0037] The articles treatment machine may comprise a closed loop flow path comprising the outlet at the sump, the first fluid flow channel, the first passage through the heat exchanger, a return channel connecting an outlet of the first passage of the heat exchanger to an outlet connected to the tub or sump. Preferably the outlet connected to the tub or sump of the closed loop flow path is a tub outlet arranged in proximity to or being at least partially surrounded by the water tank of the tank assembly, the tub outlet being arranged above the sump so that the washing liquid flows along a tub wall down to the sump. The return channel may be formed integrally with the water tank. 'Formed integrally ' may mean that the water tank and the return channel are made in a single piece. For example, the water tank and the return channel are made by injection molding.

[0038] During circulation along the closed loop flow path, the washing liquid preferably does not contact the articles loaded within the machine. Thus the whole or substantially the whole heat stored within the washing liquid can be exchanged in the heat exchanger.

[0039] Preferably the articles treatment machine comprises an inlet flow path comprising an inflow connection to water mains, the softener assembly, the second passage of the heat exchanger, the water tank, and the tank outlet connected to the sump. Thus, in the inlet flow path, fresh water from the inflow connection to water mains is guided through the softener assembly and the second passage of the heat exchanger and is collected in the tank. If a heat exchanger is provided, fresh water is guided in the inlet flow path through the second passage of the heat exchanger and heated softened water can be collected in the water tank. Under respective control the (e.g. heated) softened water in the water tank can be supplied via the tank outlet into the tub or sump. The fresh water flowing through the second passage of the heat exchanger can be heated up by exchanging heat with the washing liquid from the sump flowing in the closed loop flow path through the first passage of the heat exchanger.

[0040] The residual heat within the washing liquid in the sump can be reused by transferring the heat of the washing liquid guided along the closed loop flow path in the first passage of the heat exchanger to the fresh water guided along the second passage of the heat exchanger in the inlet flow path. Thus, the heated fresh water can be stored in the water tank and can be used for a further washing cycle or for a next phase within the same washing cycle. Thus, the overall efficiency of the machine is improved.

[0041] The closed loop flow path and the inlet flow path are preferably fluidly separated from each other, i.e. no fluid flowing through the closed loop flow path can flow into the inlet flow path and vice versa. Fresh water can be filled into the water tank via the inlet flow path. Thus, no dirty washing liquid from the sump flows into the water tank, but only fresh water, in particular heated softened fresh water, is collected in the water tank when the heat exchange mode is activated.

[0042] Flow controller:

[0043] The washing liquid from the sump may be circulated along the closed loop flow path (i.e. closed loop path with or without the heat exchanger) via a circulation pump. The machine may comprise a flow controller adapted to guide the washing liquid from the sump to one, two or any of a bottom, middle and top spray device via the circulation pump.

[0044] The circulation pump for circulation of the washing liquid from the sump along the closed loop flow path may be the same pump as the circulation pump for circulating the washing liquid within the tub from the sump to the respective spray devices via the flow controller.

[0045] The flow controller may comprise an additional outlet connected to the first passage of the heat exchanger and in particular to the first fluid flow channel of the water distributor such that the washing liquid is guided along the closed loop flow path for heat exchange with fresh water. In this case the washing liquid from the sump flows through the additional outlet of the flow controller and from the additional outlet to the heat exchanger.

[0046] The flow controller may include a positioning device and a disk rotatably arranged in relation to the plurality of washing fluid outlets (for the spray devices) and the at least one extra outlet, wherein the disk comprises a plurality of apertures arranged for selectively closing and opening the plurality of washing fluid outlets and / or the at least one extra outlet of the sump during rotation of the disk. When the positioning device aligns at least one of the plurality of apertures of the disk with the at least one extra outlet of the sump, washing fluid is permitted to pass from the flow controller via the extra outlet to the first passage of the closed loop path.

[0047] Alternatively of passing the washing liquid through the flow controller to the closed loop path, a circulation pump may be provided for circulating liquid from the sump through the respective spray devices, and another circulation pump may be provided for circulation of the washing liquid from the sump along the closed loop flow path. In this case, the washing liquid from the sump is preferably not guided through a or the flow controller.

[0048] The control unit may be adapted to circulate the washing liquid along the closed loop flow path and / or along the inlet flow path.

[0049] Structure of water distributor:

[0050] In addition to the first fluid flow channel described above, the plurality of fluid flow channels arranged within the housing of the water distributor may comprise one or more or all of the following fluid paths: the first fluid flow channel, a second fluid flow channel extending between a second fluid inlet and a second fluid outlet of the water distributor, preferably forming part of the inlet flow path, wherein the second fluid inlet is connected to the inflow connection to water mains and the second fluid outlet is connected to an inlet of the softener assembly, a third fluid flow channel extending between a third fluid inlet and a third fluid outlet of the water distributor, preferably forming part of the inlet flow path, wherein the third fluid inlet is connected to an outlet of the softener assembly and the third fluid outlet is connected to the second passage of the heat exchanger such that the fresh water from the softener assembly is guided to the water tank via the heat exchanger, a fourth fluid flow channel extending between a fourth fluid inlet and a fourth fluid outlet of the water distributor, preferably forming part of the inlet flow path, wherein the fourth fluid inlet is connected to the outlet of the softener assembly and the fourth fluid outlet is connected to the sump or tub such that fresh water from the softener assembly is guided to the sump or tub bypassing the heat exchanger and the water tank, and a fifth fluid flow channel extending between a fifth fluid inlet and a fifth fluid outlet of the water distributor, preferably forming part of the inlet flow path, wherein the fifth fluid inlet is connected to the tank outlet and the fifth fluid outlet is connected to sump or tub such that fresh water from the water tank is guided to the sump or tub.

[0051] Preferably the second fluid flow channel is guiding fresh water from the inflow connection to water mains to the softener assembly before being guided into the water tank.

[0052] Preferably the third fluid flow channel is guiding (softened) fresh water from the softener assembly via the heat exchanger into the water tank, most preferably from the softener via the second passage in the heat exchanger. Water may be stored in the water tank, if heat exchange between the fresh water in the water tank and the ambient is desired or if it is desired to fill the water tank with fresh water for a next cycle. Further preferred and when in use the fresh water passed through the third fluid flow channel may be heated by the washing liquid guided from the sump through the first passage of the heat exchanger along the first fluid flow channel (i.e. washing liquid flowing along first fluid flow channel has higher temperature as compared to fresh water coming from the mains and flowing through the third fluid flow channel). Thus, the fresh and softened water is heated before being stored in the water tank.

[0053] Preferably the fourth fluid flow channel is guiding (softened) fresh water from softener assembly to the sump or tub bypassing the water tank and the heat exchanger. In particular, if no water storage in the water tank or heating of the fresh softened water is needed, the fresh softened water is guided along the fourth fluid flow channel such that the heat exchanger and the water tank are bypassed. Thus, if water is needed quickly in the sump, the water can be fed through the fourth flow path while bypassing the heat exchanger and the water tank. Preferably the third and fourth fluid flow channels have or share a common fluid inlet (e.g. the fluid inlet is fluidly connected to a valve inlet of a three-way valve which is fluidly connected to the third and fourth fluid flow channels as described below) arranged at the housing of the water distributor (in this case the water distributor has one fluid inlet less than fluid outlets).

[0054] Preferably the fifth fluid flow channel is guiding (heated) softened fresh water stored in the water tank to the sump or tub.

[0055] In case the water distributor comprises all of the above fluid flow channels, the tank assembly comprises an inlet or outlet for each of the fluid flow channels which are mechanically engaged to the inlets and outlets of the water distributor. Preferably the water distributor comprises the first fluid outlet, the second fluid outlet, the third fluid outlet, the fourth fluid outlet and the fifth fluid inlet which are arranged in a connection region and are mechanically engaged to associated ones of the inlets and outlets of the tank assembly. In particular, the first fluid outlet is mechanically engaged to the second passage inlet, the second fluid outlet mechanically engaged to the first passage inlet, the third fluid outlet mechanically engaged to the fourth passage inlet, the fourth fluid outlet mechanically engaged to the third passage inlet, and the fifth fluid inlet mechanically engaged to the passage outlet of the tank assembly.

[0056] Preferably the water distributor comprises at least one valve which fluidly connects the outlet of the softener assembly with the third fluid inlet of the third fluid flow channel and the fourth fluid inlet of the fourth fluid flow channel and being adapted to selectively guide fresh water along the third fluid flow channel or the fourth fluid flow channel. Alternatively, the at least one valve is not provided and the housing of the water distributor comprises the third fluid inlet and the fourth fluid inlet which are separately connected to the outlet of the softener assembly. The water distributor may comprise a tank valve arranged in the fifth fluid flow channel and being adapted to block or allow the flow of the fresh water out of the water tank into the tub or sump. Preferably the at least one valve and the tank valve are attached to the housing or are integrated in the housing.

[0057] Preferably the at least one valve and the tank valve are arranged on a side wall of the water distributor facing a rear wall of the cabinet.

[0058] The at least one valve is preferably a three-way valve, wherein the third fluid flow channel connects a first valve outlet of the three-way valve to the third inlet of the water distributor, and / or the fourth fluid flow channel connects a second valve outlet of the three-way valve to the fourth inlet of the water distributor. Alternatively or additionally, the water distributor may comprise a fluid inlet which is fluidly connected to an outlet of the softener assembly and which is fluidly connected to a valve inlet of the three-way valve so that the washing liquid selectively can be guided along the third or fourth fluid flow channel.

[0059] I.e. in case a three-way valve is provided, and the water distributor comprises the first, second, third, fourth and fifth fluid flow channels, the water distributor comprises four fluid inlets and five fluid outlets. In particular, the first fluid outlet, the second fluid outlet, the third fluid outlet, the fourth fluid outlet and the fifth fluid inlet are arranged in a connection region and are mechanically engaged to inlets and outlets of the tank assembly. The first fluid inlet, the second fluid inlet, the fluid inlet connected to the third and fourth fluid flow channels via the three-way valve, and the fifth fluid outlet are preferably arranged on an opposite side of the housing of the water distributor.

[0060] The treatment machine may further comprise a flow meter adapted to provide a signal indicating the amount of supplied fresh water, wherein the flow meter is arranged downstream of the inflow connection to water mains and upstream of the softener assembly (and in particular upstream of the second fluid flow channel). Preferably the flow meter is integrated in the water distributor, and more preferably the flow meter is arranged within the second fluid flow channel. The flow meter may provide feedback for controlling either the amount of water reaching the water tank via the heat exchanger or the sump if the heat exchanger and the water tank are bypassed via a fluid flow channel of the water distributor, in particular the fourth fluid flow channel of the water distributor.

[0061] Operation modes of tank assembly:

[0062] The tank assembly may comprise several different operation modes:

[0063] - A passive heat exchange mode: In this case the cold fresh water (e.g. 15°C) stored in the water tank may be heated up over several hours by absorbing ambient heat from the surroundings (to e.g. 23°).

[0064] - In case the above heat exchanger is provided, an active heat exchange mode provides: Washing liquid is flowing along the closed loop flow path and through the first passage of the heat exchanger and fresh water is flowing along the inlet flow path and the second passage of the heat exchanger while the washing liquid exchanges heat with the fresh water within the heat exchanger. This mode may be applied e.g. at the end of the prewash, wash phase and / or the cold rinse before draining of the washing liquid in the sump. Thus, the residual heat from the washing liquid can be transferred to the fresh water and can be reused in a next phase of a washing cycle, e.g. for a hot rinse. Therefore, the energy efficiency of the machine is improved.

[0065] - A quick clean program: If it is necessary to fill up the sump faster and / or if the water stored in the tank is not enough to properly operate the circulation pump, the fresh water can be directly guided into the tub or sump via a bypass conduit (described below) bypassing the heat exchanger and the water tank.

[0066] The machine may further comprise a control unit for controlling the operation of the treatment machine, wherein the control unit is adapted to control the water distributor such that it is switched to one or more or all of the following switching states:

[0067] - a first switching state in which fresh water flows along the second fluid flow channel and the third fluid flow channel (i.e. fresh water from the softener is guided via the heat exchanger into the water tank), - a second switching state in which fresh water flows along the second fluid flow channel and the fourth fluid flow channel (i.e. fresh water from the softener is guided to the sump or tub bypassing the heat exchanger and the water tank),

[0068] - a third switching state in which (heated) softened fresh water from the water tank flows along the fifth fluid flow channel,

[0069] - optionally a fourth switching state in which water from the sump flows along the closed loop path comprising the first fluid flow channel and the first passage through the heat exchanger and at the same time softened fresh water flows through the third fluid flow channel and the second passage through the heat exchanger.

[0070] The control unit may be adapted to selectively control the water distributor such that it is switched to the selected one of the switching states. Preferably only one of the switching states can be assumed by the water distributor at a time such that preferably only (exclusively) the fluid connection as defined for the switching state is established.

[0071] Preferably the tank assembly and / or the water distributor is made of plastic, preferably by injection molding. Alternatively or additionally, the heat exchanger, in particular the first passage of the heat exchanger, is made of metal such as stainless steel.

[0072] Heat exchanger:

[0073] The heat exchanger may be a tube-in-tube heat exchanger comprising an inner tube forming the first (or the second) passage of the heat exchanger and an outer tube forming the second (or first) passage of the heat exchanger, and the inner tube having a smaller cross section is arranged within the outer tube having a larger cross section. Preferably the first and / or second passages of the heat exchanger is formed integrally with the water tank, and / or the outer tube of the heat exchanger is formed integrally with the water tank.

[0074] Preferably the outer cross section of the inner tube is completely received in the outer tube and a free space is around the inner tube to enable a flow in the outer tube around the inner tube and / or the inner tube is a tube inserted into the outer tube after manufacturing at least a portion of the outer tube.

[0075] The inner tube of the heat exchanger is preferably a separate element that is mounted within the outer tube. For example, the inner tube may be made of a plastic or preferably of a metal material such as stainless steel. The outer tube is preferably made of a plastic material. The outer tube may comprise spacer elements arranged within the outer tube for ensuring the centering of the inner tube. Thus, flow unbalances can be prevented and a uniform heat exchange is achieved. The flow direction of liquid flowing in the inner tube and of the liquid flowing in the outer tube may be in the same flow direction or in counterflow.

[0076] Preferably the first passage of the heat exchanger, which is part of the closed loop flow path, is formed by the inner tube of the heat exchanger and thus guides the circulated washing liquid. Alternatively or additionally, the second passage of the heat exchanger, which is part of the inlet flow path, is formed by the free space between the outer tube and the inner tube of the heat exchanger and thus guides the fresh water supplied from the inflow connection to water mains (preferably via the softener assembly) into the water tank.

[0077] Structure of tank assembly:

[0078] When considering the normal operation position of the machine, the tank assembly may be divided vertically into a first part (e.g. a shell element) and a second part (e.g. a cover element), wherein both parts may be attached permanently to each other during assembly by e.g. by (ultrasonic) welding.

[0079] By permanently connecting both halves, the water tank and fluid passages arranged within the tank assembly are formed. I.e. the water tank and each fluid passage arranged within the tank assembly are preferably formed after the connection of the first and second part of the tank assembly. In this case, one part of the first and / or second passage of the heat exchanger may be integrally formed with the first part of the tank assembly and another part of the first and / or second passage of the heat exchanger may be integrally formed with the second part of the tank assembly. Preferably the tank assembly and in particular the fluid passages and / or inlets and outlets comprised in the tank assembly, is / are made of plastic.

[0080] Preferably the tank assembly comprises a flow channel being part of the inlet flow path, and the flow channel connects the outlet of the second passage of the heat exchanger to an inlet of the water tank. More preferably the flow channel is formed integrally with the water tank.

[0081] Preferably the treatment machine comprises a bypass conduit being part of the inlet flow path, wherein an inlet of the bypass conduit is connected to the fourth fluid outlet of the water distributor and an outlet of the bypass conduit is connected to the sump or tub. Preferably at least a portion of the bypass conduit is arranged within the tank assembly, wherein the outlet of the bypass conduit is the tub outlet being arranged within the water tank. More preferably the portion of the bypass conduit is formed integrally with the water tank. Preferably the tank assembly comprises a draining path connected to an inlet at the sump, wherein the draining path is adapted to drain, via a drain pump, washing liquid from the sump out of the treatment machine. The draining path is preferably arranged next to the water tank (preferably next to the heat exchanger, preferably at a side of the heat exchanger facing away from the water tank).

[0082] The tank assembly may comprise an air gap flow conduit being part of the inlet flow path and being arranged downstream of the inflow connection to water mains and upstream of the softener assembly, wherein the air gap flow conduit extends between an inlet and an outlet and comprises an air gap. Preferably the air gap is in fluid communication with the water tank such that water leakage at the air gap flows into the water tank.

[0083] Preferably the tank assembly comprises an overflow conduit connected to the tub outlet and arranged within the water tank such that fresh water within the water tank exceeding a maximum water fill level is guided back into the tub via the overflow conduit. The overflow conduit may be formed integrally with the water tank.

[0084] Any feature disclosed herein (for the above embodiments and / or configurations and from the below described detailed embodiments and modifications) can be combined with the claimed subject individually or in any sub-combination. If herein the conjunction "and / or" is used all logical elements and combinations are individually disclosed. E.g. 'a, b and / or c' or 'a and / or b and / or c' discloses the elements / combinations a, b, c, ab, ac, be as well as abc. Terms like "vertical" or "horizontal" or "front" or "rear" or "upper" or "lower" refer to an operational orientation of the dishwasher.

[0085] Reference is made in detail to preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying figures, which show:

[0086] Fig. 1 a perspective view of an article treatment machine with a tank assembly with the cabinet and loading door removed,

[0087] Fig. 2 another perspective view of the article treatment machine of Fig. 1 without a rear wall and a side wall of the tub,

[0088] Fig. 3 a perspective view of the article treatment machine of Fig. 1 without the tub,

[0089] Fig. 4 a perspective side view of a bottom region of Fig. 3, Fig. 5 another perspective view of the bottom region of Fig. 4,

[0090] Fig. 6 another perspective view of the bottom region of Fig. 4 without the sump,

[0091] Fig. 7 a perspective view of the bottom region of Fig. 4 from below,

[0092] Fig. 8 a perspective view of the water distributor of Fig. 7 with cutaway sidewall,

[0093] Fig. 9 another perspective view of the water distributor of Fig. 8,

[0094] Fig. 10 a perspective view of the water distributor and the tank assembly of Fig. 7, both with side walls removed,

[0095] Fig. 11 a side view of the tank assembly of Fig. 3 with the side wall removed,

[0096] Fig. 12 a perspective view of the water distributor of Fig. 10 and the softener assembly,

[0097] Fig. 13 a perspective view of the bottom region of the tank assembly of Fig. 10,

[0098] Fig. 14 an exploded view of the sump of Fig. 5,

[0099] Fig. 15 a perspective view of another water distributor and tank assembly,

[0100] Fig. 16 a perspective view of the water distributor of Fig. 15,

[0101] Fig. 17 the water distributor of Fig. 15 without the cover elements (side walls), and

[0102] Fig. 18 another perspective view the bottom region of the tank assembly of Fig. 15 showing the internal fluid paths.

[0103] In the following a treatment machine 2 is described in detail, the machine comprising a heat exchanger 48, wherein a first passage 52 of the heat exchanger is comprised in a closed loop path 64 and a second passage 50 is comprised in an inlet flow path 68. However, the invention is not limited to a treatment machine 2 comprising the heat exchanger 48. If no heat exchanger 48 is provided, then the fresh water is guided in the inlet flow path via a fluid flow passage into a water tank 44. In case, the heat exchanger 48 is provided, the fluid flow passage of the inlet flow path 68 comprises the second passage 50 of the heat exchanger and is configured to exchange heat with the washing liquid flowing through the first passage 52 in the closed loop path 64 (cf. Figs. 10 and 11).

[0104] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an article treatment machine 2 with a tank assembly 42 where for illustration the cabinet walls and the loading door are removed. Fig. 2 is another perspective view of the article treatment machine of Fig. 1 without a rear wall 16 and a side wall of the tub 10. Exemplarily, the articles treatment machine 2 shown in the Figures is a dishwasher.

[0105] The dishwasher 2 comprises a cabinet (not shown) housing a tub 8 for washing articles therein. The tub 8 may comprise side walls 10, 12, a top wall 14, a rear wall 16, and a tub bottom 18. The cabinet may further comprise a basement 6 arranged below the tub bottom wall 18. The dishwasher may further comprise a loading door (not shown) that may be pivotably connected with the tub 8 to selectively permit access to the tub 8 for loading and unloading the articles and which is closed when the dishwasher 2 is operating (e.g. when the articles in the dishwasher 2 are washed and / or cleaned). The door is preferably configured to close a front loading opening of the tub 8. The cabinet may comprise two side walls configured to laterally cover the dishwasher components and the tub 8, and a rear wall configured to cover the dishwashers components at the dishwasher's rear side. Optionally the cabinet comprises a top wall, in particular a worktop, configured to cover the dishwasher components at the dishwasher's top side. The top wall is preferably used in case the dishwasher is a free-standing dishwasher and not a built-in type dishwasher.

[0106] Dishes, utensils, and other dishware (also referred to herein as 'articles') may be placed in the tub 8 for cleaning. The dishwasher 2 may also include slidable lower and upper racks or baskets (not shown) for holding the articles to be cleaned. The racks may be movable into and out of the tub 8.

[0107] The dishwasher 2 comprises a sump 20 (as shown in Fig. 3) for collecting washing liquid, typically under the influence of gravity. The dishwasher 2 uses the washing liquid to clean, wash, and rinse the articles. The sump 20 is arranged below the tub bottom 18. In particular, the sump 20 is fluidly connected from below to the tub bottom 18, such that the washing liquid within the tub 8 can flow into the sump 20.

[0108] As shown in Fig. 3, the dishwasher 2 may comprise a washing liquid circulation path for circulating the washing liquid during a washing cycle. In particular, the washing liquid collected in the sump 20 may be pumped via a circulation pump 24 through a washing fluid conduit system (not shown). The washing fluid conduit system is preferably connected to one or more spray devices, in particular to a lower, a middle and a top spray device. The washing fluid conduit system is configured to spray the washing liquid, under pressure, onto the articles contained in the tub 20 during a washing cycle.

[0109] The dishwasher 2 may comprise a filtration assembly (not shown) that is connected to the sump 20. The filtration assembly may be configured to filter the washing liquid returning to the sump 20 after washing liquid has been deployed in the tub 8 via the water conduit system.

[0110] The dishwasher 2 may include a controller (not shown) in communication with one or more of the dishwasher's functional components. E.g. the controller may be in control communication with the circulation pump 24 and may be configured to selectively operate the circulation pump 24 to pump washing fluid to at least one of the spray devices of the water conduit system.

[0111] Flow controller:

[0112] As shown in Figs. 5, 7 and 14, the dishwasher may comprise a flow controller 26 which is arranged downstream of the circulation pump 24 (i.e. connected to an outlet of the pump 24) and which is configured for guiding the washing liquid to at least one of the spray devices. Preferably, a pipe element connects the outlet of the sump 24 with an inlet 59 of the flow controller 26. In particular, the sump 22 may comprise a plurality of sump outlets 28, 30, 32, 33, 34, wherein the controller is adapted to control the flow controller such that the washing liquid is guided along one or more of the outlets 28, 30, 32, 33, 34. The sump outlets 28, 30, 32 and the surrounding surface covering the flow controller 26 may be considered to be part of the flow controller 26 or as a separation element with outlets between the flow controller and the sump.

[0113] Fig. 14 illustrates an exploded view of the sump 20 (shown in FIG. 1) and the flow controller 26. Sump 20 may include a disk portion 53 formed within an external side of the sump 20. The flow controller 26 may include a disk 54 having a plurality of outlets, CAM disk 56, switch (not specifically shown), and motor 57. Disk portion 53 of sump is preferably sized and shaped to receive disk 54. CAM disk 56, switch, and motor 57 may be configured to rotate disk 54 relative to the first, second, third washing fluid outlets 28, 30, 32. The flow controller 26 is preferably adapted to control the rotation of the disk 54 such that at least one opening of the disk 54 is aligned to at least one of the sump outlets 28, 30, 32, 33 and 34 (i.e. outlets of sump are considered to be "open" when aligned with an opening of the disk and washing fluid can flow, and outlets are considered to be "closed" when not aligned with an opening of the disk and washing fluid cannot flow). Depending on the rotation position of the disk, washing liquid can flow through specific outlets of the plurality of outlets 28, 30, 32, 33 and 34. Preferably the first outlet 28 is connected to a first spray device (preferably a spray arm), the second outlet 30 to a middle spray device (preferably a spray arm) and the third outlet 32 to a top spray device (preferably a (rotating) spray nozzle) of the water conduit system (spray devices not shown).

[0114] The fourth or fifth outlets 33, 34 may enable washing fluid to be supplied from sump 20 to a variety of components of the dishwasher 2. For example, the fourth or fifth outlet 33, 34 may provide washing fluid from sump 20 to a component of the dishwasher 2 outside of the tub 8. As shown in Fig. 7, the fourth outlet 33 is fluidly connected to the first passage 52 of the heat exchanger and in particular to a water distributor 100 (described below). In particular, the fourth outlet 33 is fluidly connected to a third fluid flow channel 104 (described below) of the water distributor 100. However, generally, in the exemplary embodiment, controller may signal to the switch and motor 57 to rotate the CAM disk 56 at the intervals and times consistent with the dishwasher washing cycle and as a result, the disk 54 is suitably moved relative to the sump and outlets selectably to predetermined rotation positions to allow the liquid to pass through the outlet or outlets selectably required for the respective program section of the washing program.

[0115] A housing 58 may fit around or envelops the disk 54 when the disk 54 is positioned within disk portion 53 of sump 20. In use, the disk 54 is located between the housing 58 and sump 20. CAM disk 56, switch, and motor 57 are located within an internal compartment (not specifically shown) of the housing 58 such that at least the CAM disk 56 is in contact with the disk 54 through the housing 53. The housing 58, the CAM disk 56, the switch, and the motor 57 may have a different configuration. For example, the CAM disk 56, switch, and motor 57 may be arranged immediately adjacent disk 54 rather than separated by a portion of the housing body as shown in Fig. 14. In particular, such that the housing 58 is below the CAM disk 56, the switch, and the motor 57.

[0116] Tank assembly:

[0117] As shown in Figs. 10 and 11, the tank assembly 42 may comprise an air gap flow conduit 74 being part of the inlet flow path 68, wherein the flow conduit 74 is arranged downstream of the connection to water mains 78 and upstream of the softener assembly 40. In particular, the connection to water mains 78 is connected to an inlet 75 of the air gap flow conduit 74. The air gap flow conduit 74 may comprise an air gap 76 which is arranged at the top of the tank assembly 42, preferably at or above the maximum water level of the water tank 44. The air gap flow conduit 74 is preferably arranged next to the water tank 44, preferably on a right side of the water tank 44 when considering the normal operation position of the dishwasher 2. The air gap flow conduit 74 is connected to the air gap, wherein the air gap 76 is connected to the softener assembly 40. In particular, the flow conduit 74 connecting the outlet of the air gap 76 to the softener assembly 40 comprises two flow conduits each with a separate outlet, wherein one outlet 40a is connected to a salt container of the softener assembly 40, and the other outlet 40b is connected to a resin container of the softener assembly 40.

[0118] The tank assembly 42 for storing heated fresh water and / or for exchanging heat between the washing liquid from the sump 20 is preferably arranged at a side wall of the dishwasher 2 (see Fig. 1). E.g. the tank assembly 42 is arranged at a left side wall of the dishwasher 2 when considering the normal operational position of the dishwasher 2 (as shown in Fig. 1). The tank assembly may be basically formed of a shell element 45b which is covered by a cover element 45a (shown in Fig. 1). The tank assembly is preferably arranged between the tub 8 and the cabinet of the dishwasher in a vertical plane, preferably parallel to a side wall of the dishwasher 2. The shell element 45b in an opened state is shown e.g. in Figs. 10 and 11 without the cover element 45a which - in the assembled state - is preferably watertight mounted to the shell element 45b. The cover element 45 a and / or the shell element 45b may have a rib structure formed on the inner or outer side to stabilize against deformation. The shell element 45b preferably has partition elements that provide the lateral walls of tank sections and / or (liquid and / or air) conduits of the shell element.

[0119] As shown in Fig. 11, the tank assembly 42 comprises a water tank 44 for storing heated softened fresh water and a heat exchanger 48 for exchanging heat between softened fresh water and washing liquid from the sump 20. The heat exchanger 48 may have a first passage 52 and a second passage 50 being in heat-exchanging contact with each other. Preferably the heat exchanger 48 is a tube-in-tube heat exchanger comprising an inner tube forming the first passage 52 of the heat exchanger and an outer tube forming the second passage 50 of the heat exchanger 48. The inner tube having a smaller cross section is arranged within the outer tube having a larger cross section. The heat exchanger 48 is preferably arranged next to the water tank 44, more preferably on a lateral (e.g. left) side of the water tank 44. The second passage 50 (in this case an outer tube) of the heat exchanger 48 is preferably formed integrally, i.e. in one piece, with the water tank 44.

[0120] As shown in Figs. 5 to 7 and Fig. 11, the dishwasher 2 may comprise a closed loop flow path 64 forming a flow circuit and comprising an outlet at the sump 20, a circulation pump, a first passage 52 (in this case an inner tube) of the heat exchanger 48, and a tub outlet 46. In particular, the outlet at the sump 20 is connected to an inlet 62b of the inner tube 52 (see Figs. 5-7). The closed loop flow path 64 may further comprise a return channel 66 connecting an outlet 62a of the inner tube 52 to the tub outlet 46. The return channel 66 may be arranged between the heat exchanger 48 and the water tank 44. The return channel 66 is preferably formed integrally, i.e. in one piece, with the water tank 44. The tub outlet 46 is preferably arranged within the water tank 44, wherein in particular at least a portion of the return channel 66 extends through the water tank 44 to the outlet 46 arranged within the water tank 44.

[0121] The channels of the closed loop flow path 64 comprised in the tank assembly 42 are preferably fluidly separated from an inlet flow path 68 (described below) comprising the water tank 44. In particular, the tub outlet 46 is fluidly separated from the water tank 44. I.e. washing liquid circulated along the closed loop flow path 64 is not guided into the water tank 44. Thus, contamination of the tank by dirty washing liquid from the sump is avoided. Preferably at least a portion of the closed loop flow path 64 is formed by the fluid flow channel 104 (see Fig. 8) comprised in a water distributor 100 of the dishwasher (described below). As shown in Fig. 5, preferably the closed loop flow path 64 comprises the flow controller 26 which is arranged upstream of the heat exchanger and in particular upstream of the water distributor 100. Preferably the fourth outlet 33 is fluidly connected to the first passage 52 of the heat exchanger and in particular to the third fluid flow channel 104 of the water distributor 100.

[0122] Washing liquid may be circulated along the closed loop flow path 64 via a circulation pump. As shown in the Figures, the circulation pump is the same as the circulation pump 24 for circulating the washing liquid along the water conduit system. Alternatively, an additional circulation pump may be provided for the closed loop flow path 64.

[0123] The dishwasher 2 may comprise the inlet flow path 68 having a connection to water mains 78 (see Figs. 5 and 11), a softener assembly 40, the second passage 50 of the heat exchanger 48 (in this case an outer tube), the water tank 44, and a tank outlet 73 connected to the sump 20. In particular, the second passage 50 is arranged downstream of the softener assembly 40 and upstream of the water tank 44. Preferably at least a portion of the inlet flow path 68 is formed by one or more fluid flow channels 102, 103, 105, 106 (see Fig. 8) comprised in a water distributor 100 of the dishwasher (described below).

[0124] The residual heat within the washing liquid in the sump 20 can be reused by transferring the heat of the washing liquid guided along the closed loop flow path 64 in the heat exchanger to the softened fresh water guided along the inlet flow path 68 which can then be stored in the water tank 44 until it is used for a further washing cycle. Thus, the overall efficiency of the machine is improved. A fresh water inlet valve (not shown) may be provided upstream of the second passage 50 of the heat exchanger 48 and in particular upstream of the softener assembly 40 for enabling or blocking flow of fresh water into the dishwasher 2. In particular, the connection to water mains 78 is connected to an inlet 60b of the outer tube 50 (see Fig. 5).

[0125] A flow meter (not shown) may be provided downstream of the fresh water inlet valve (not shown) and upstream of the second passage 50 of the heat exchanger 48 and in particular upstream of the softener assembly 40 for providing feedback for the amount of supplied fresh water. Preferably the flow meter and / or the fresh water inlet valve are arranged upstream of the air gap flow conduit 74 described below. The flow meter may be integrated in a flow path comprised in a housing 101 of a water distributor 100.

[0126] The tank valve 114 (see e.g. Fig. 5) may be provided downstream of the water tank 44 and upstream of the sump 20 for enabling or blocking water flow out of the water tank 44. The softener assembly 40 is preferably arranged at least partially below the tank assembly 42.

[0127] As shown in Fig. 11, the inlet flow path 68 may further comprise a flow channel 70 connecting an outlet 60a of the outer tube 50 to an inlet 72 of the water tank 44. The flow channel 70 is preferably arranged next to the water tank 44. Preferably the flow channel 70 extends from the outlet 60a upwards to the top of the tank assembly 42. The flow channel 70 is preferably formed integrally, i.e. in one piece, with the water tank 44.

[0128] As shown in Fig. 11, the air gap flow conduit 74 extends from a bottom region of the tank assembly 42 to the top or upper region of the tank assembly 42 where the air gap 76 is arranged and from there back to the bottom region of the tank assembly to outlets 40a, 40b. Preferably the air gap 76 is in fluid communication with the water tank 44 such that water leakage at the air gap 76 flows into the water tank 44. When fresh water is supplied with a predetermined pressure along the inlet flow path 68, most of the water will pass through the air gap. However a little leakage of water may be present. This water leakage at the air gap 76 flows automatically due to gravity into the water tank 44.

[0129] The fresh water flowing through the air gap flow conduit 74 may be guided either through the outlet 40b connected to the resin container (for softening the fresh water), or, if a regeneration of the resin in the resin container is necessary, through the outlet 40a connected to the salt container and then through the resin container. A valve element such as a two-way valve may be provided upstream of the salt container and preferably downstream of the outlet 40a for enabling or blocking water flow into the salt container. As shown in Fig. 11, the tank assembly 42 may further comprise an overflow conduit 80 connected to the tub 8, in particular to the tub outlet 46 for guiding fresh water exceeding a maximum water fill level automatically back into the tub 8. The overflow conduit 80 is preferably arranged within the water tank 44. The inlet of the overflow conduit 80 may extend from a top region of the tank assembly 42, in particular a maximum water level, downwards to the tub outlet 46. The overflow conduit 80 is preferably formed integrally with the water tank 44.

[0130] The inlet flow path 68 may further comprise a bypass conduit 97 (flow path connected to an outlet of the softener assembly 40 and in particular to the fourth outlet of the water distributor as shown in Figs. 8, 10 and 11) arranged downstream of the softener assembly 40 and upstream of the heat exchanger 48 for bypassing the heat exchanger 42. Thus, fresh water from water mains can be supplied into the sump 20 while bypassing the heat exchanger 48 and the water tank 44.

[0131] The dishwasher 2 may comprise the following different operation modes:

[0132] - A passive heat exchange mode in which cold fresh water (e.g. 15°C) from water mains is guided via the inlet flow path 68 into the water tank 44 in which it is stored and heated up over several hours by absorbing ambient heat from the surroundings (to e.g. 23°). I.e. in this case no washing liquid is circulated along the closed loop flow path 64 and thus no heat is exchanged in the heat exchanger 48 between fresh water and washing liquid from the sump 20.

[0133] - An active heat exchange mode in which washing liquid and fresh water flow through the heat exchanger 48 and exchange heat with each other. This mode is e.g. used at the end of a pre-wash, wash phase and / or a cold rinse before draining of the washing liquid in the sump 20. Thus, the heat from the washing liquid can be transferred to the fresh water and the heated fresh water can be stored in the water tank 44. The heated fresh water in the water tank 44 may be reused in a next phase of a washing cycle. Therefore, energy needed for the next phase, e.g. a hot rinse, is reduced.

[0134] - A quick clean program which can be used, if it is desired to fill up the sump 20 faster and / or if the water stored in the tank is not enough to properly operate the circulation pump. In this case the fresh water supplied via the water mains and being guided through the softener assembly 40 can be directly guided into the sump 20 via the bypass conduit 97 (see Figs. 10 and 11) bypassing the heat exchanger 48 and the water tank 44. As shown in Figs. 3 and 5, the dishwasher 2 may further comprise a draining path 92 for draining the washing liquid in the sump 20, via a drain pump 90 (see Fig. 4), out of the dishwasher 2. The draining path 92 may comprise a first, second and third draining path section 94a-c. The first draining path section 94a is connected to an outlet at the sump 20 and an inlet 96a of the second draining path section 94b which is arranged at the tank assembly 42. The second draining path section 94b (see Fig. 1) may be formed as a separate element or may be comprised in the tank assembly 42. Preferably the second draining path section 94b is arranged next to the heat exchanger 48, more preferably laterally of the heat exchanger 48 (i.e. at a side of the heat exchanger 48 facing away from the water tank 44). The second draining path section 94b may be integrally formed with the water tank 44. An outlet 96b of the second draining path section 94b is connected to the third draining path section 94c guiding the washing liquid out of the dishwasher 2.

[0135] The second draining path section 94b may comprise a siphon or air gap for preventing dirty water to flow back into the dishwasher 2. In particular, the second draining path section 94b may extend from the bottom to the top and from the top to the bottom of the tank assembly forming a siphon. Thus, when the drain pump 90 for draining the washing liquid is stopped, the remaining dirty washing liquid within the second draining path section 94b flows out of the draining path due to gravity. When the draining path 92 has a clog or blockage downstream of the air gap / siphon, no dirty water can flow from the outside of the dishwasher 2 back into the dishwasher 2 via the second draining path section 94b due to the siphon / air gap. Further, the draining path section 94b may comprise a ventilation valve (not shown) fluidly connecting the draining path section 94b via a flow connection pipe (see Fig. 1) to the tank assembly and in particular to the tank inlet 72. The ventilation valve is preferably arranged at the highest vertical point of the draining path section 94b. If washing fluid rises above the ventilation valve 81, the washing fluid is guided via the tank inlet 72 into the tank 44. Thus, the ventilation valve 81 is operating as an overflow channel for the draining path section 94b.

[0136] Water distributor:

[0137] As shown in Figs. 6 and 8, a water distributor 100 may be provided for guiding washing liquid within the dishwasher 2. In particular, the water distributor 100 may be provided for guiding water along different flow paths within the tank assembly 42.

[0138] As shown in Figs. 8 to 10, the water distributor 100 comprises a housing 101, wherein one or more fluid flow channels 102-106 separated from each other may be arranged or formed within the housing. Preferably the housing 101 is covered by a cover element 101a, wherein in particular, in an assembled state of the water distributor 100, the cover element 101a is preferably mounted or attached watertight to the housing 101. The water distributor 100, and in particular the housing 101, may comprise one or more or all of the following fluid paths:

[0139] - A first fluid flow channel 102 forming part of the inlet flow path 68 and extending between a first fluid inlet 102a of the water distributor 100 and a first fluid outlet 102b of the water distributor 100. The first inlet 102a may be connected to the inflow connection to water mains 78 and the first outlet may be connected to an inlet of the softener assembly 40 and in particular to the air gap flow conduit 74. Thus, fresh water from the connection to water mains 78 can be supplied to the softener assembly 40, preferably before being guided into the water tank 44.

[0140] - A second fluid flow channel 103 forming part of the inlet flow path 68 and extending between a second fluid inlet 103a of the water distributor 100 and a second fluid outlet 103b of the water distributor 100. The second inlet 103a may be connected to the tank outlet 73 and the second outlet 103b may be connected to the sump 20 or tub 8 via a pipe element 122 (see Figs. 6 and 7). Thus, (heated and / or softened) fresh water stored in the water tank 44 can be guided to the sump 20 or tub 8.

[0141] - A third fluid flow channel 104 forming part of the closed loop flow path 64 and extending between a third fluid inlet 104a of the water distributor 100 and a third fluid outlet 104b of the water distributor 100. The third inlet 104a may be connected to the outlet at the sump 20 (via a pipe element 124 - see Figs. 6 and 7) and the third outlet 104b may be connected to the first passage 52 of the heat exchanger 48. The residual heat within the washing liquid in the sump 20 can be reused by transferring the heat of the washing liquid guided along the closed loop flow path 64 in the first passage 52 of the heat exchanger 48 to the softened fresh water guided along the second passage 50 of the heat exchanger 48 in the inlet flow path 68. The heated softened water can then be stored in the water tank 44 until it is used for a further washing cycle. Thus, the overall efficiency of the machine is improved.

[0142] - A fourth fluid flow channel 105 forming part of the inlet flow path 68 and extending between a fourth fluid inlet 105a of the water distributor 100 and a fourth fluid outlet 105b of the water distributor 100. The fourth inlet 105a may be connected to an outlet of the softener assembly 40 and the fourth outlet 105b may be connected to the sump 20 or the tub outlet 46 bypassing the water tank 44. In particular, the fourth outlet 105 is connected to an inlet 97a of the bypass conduit 97 which may be connected to the tub outlet 46 (see Fig. 11). Thus, fresh softened water can be guided directly into the tub or sump 20 bypassing the heat exchanger 48 and the water tank 44. Thus, water can be supplied to the sump quickly.

[0143] - A fifth fluid flow channel 106 forming part of the inlet flow path 68 and extending between a fifth fluid inlet 106a of the water distributor 100 and a fifth fluid outlet 106b of the water distributor 100. The fifth inlet 106a may be connected to an outlet of the softener assembly 40 and the fifth outlet 106b may be connected to the water tank 44 and in particular to the second passage 50 of the heat exchanger 48. When in use, the fresh water passed through the fifth fluid flow channel 106 may be heated by the washing liquid guided from the sump 20 through the first passage 52 of the heat exchanger of the third fluid flow channel 104 (having higher temperature as compared to fresh water coming from the mains and flowing through the third fluid flow channel). Thus, the fresh and softened water from the softener assembly 40 may be heated before being stored in the water tank 44. The water can be stored in the water tank 44 until it is used for a washing cycle.

[0144] The first, second, third, fourth and / or fifth fluid flow channels 102-106 are preferably formed integrally with the housing 101. Preferably the fluid flow channels are arranged adjacent to each other. In particular, adjacent fluid flow channels of the fluid flow channels 102-106 have or share a common side wall.

[0145] Preferably the fourth fluid flow channel 105 and the fifth fluid flow channel 106 are fluidly connected to a valve 112 as described below. In this case, the fourth fluid flow channel 105 and the fifth fluid flow channel 106 share or have a common fluid inlet 108 arranged at the housing 101 of the water distributor (see Figs. 8 and 9).

[0146] At the housing 101 the water distributor 100 may comprise at least one valve, in particular a three-way valve 112 as shown in Figs. 5 and 10 adapted to selectively guide fresh water along the fourth fluid flow channel 105 or the fifth fluid flow channel 106. At the housing 101 the water distributor may comprise the tank valve 114 arranged in the second fluid flow channel 103 and being adapted to block or allow the flow of the fresh water out of the water tank 44 into the sump 20. In particular, at least a portion of the second fluid flow channel 103 may be formed in the cover element 101a.

[0147] The three-way valve 112 and the tank valve 114 may be attached to the housing 101 or may be integrated in the housing, i.e. the valves and the housing 101 form a single unit. The three- way valve 112 and the tank valve may be arranged at a same side wall of the housing 101, preferably on the cover element 101a of the water distributor 100. In an assembled state of the water distributor 100, the three-way valve 112 and / or the tank valve 114 may be arranged at least partially within the housing 101. By mounting the valves 112, 114 on the cover element 101a, assembly is simplified because the valves can first be pre-assembled on the cover element 101a and then the cover element 101a with the valves 112, 114 can be mounted on the housing 100 in a single assembly step.

[0148] In case of a three-way valve 112 the following preferably applies: As shown in Figs. 8 and 9, the water distributor 100 may comprise the inlet 108 at the housing 101 which is fluidly connected to an inlet 112a of the three-way valve. The inlet 108 of the water distributor 100 is preferably fluidly connected to an outlet of the softener assembly 40 via a pipe element 120 (see Figs. 6 and 7). A first outlet 113a of the three-way valve may be connected to the inlet 106a of the fifth fluid flow channel 106 of the water distributor 100. A second outlet 113b of the three-way valve may be connected to the inlet 105a of the fourth fluid flow channel 105 of the water distributor 100. In this case, the fourth fluid flow channel 105 and the fifth fluid flow channel 106 share or have the common fluid inlet 108 arranged at the housing 101 of the water distributor (see Fig. 9).

[0149] Alternatively to the three-way valve 112, a first valve and a second valve may be provided, wherein the first valve is arranged in the fourth fluid flow channel 105 guiding the fresh water from the softener assembly 40 to the sump 20 (bypassing the heat exchanger 48 and the water tank 44) and the second valve is arranged in the fifth fluid flow channel 106 guiding the fresh water from the softener assembly 40 to the water tank 44 via the heat exchanger 48 (in particular the second passage 50 of the heat exchanger). By controlling the two valves with the controller, the fresh water can either be guided through the heat exchanger 48 and / or directly into the sump 20 bypassing the heat exchanger 48.

[0150] The controller may control the water distributor 100 such that at least one of the following switching states is applied:

[0151] - In a first switching state only the first fluid flow channel 102 guiding fresh water to the softener assembly 40 and the fourth fluid flow channel 105 guiding fresh water from the softener assembly 40 to the sump 20 (bypassing the heat exchanger 48 and / or water tank 44) are in an open state and the second, third and / or fifth fluid flow channels 103, 104, 106 are closed.

[0152] - In a second switching state only the first fluid flow channel 102 guiding fresh water to the softener assembly 40 and the fifth fluid flow channel 106 guiding fresh water from the softener assembly 40 to the water tank 44 via the heat exchanger 48 is in an open state and the second, third and / or fourth fluid flow channels 103, 104, 105 are closed.

[0153] T1 - In a third switching state only the second fluid flow channel 103 guiding fresh water from the water tank 44 to the sump 20 is in an open state and the first, third, and / or fourth and fifth fluid paths 110a, 110b are closed.

[0154] - Optionally in a fourth switching state in which water from the sump flows along a closed loop path comprising the first fluid flow channel and the first passage through the heat exchanger and fresh water flows along the second passage through the heat exchanger. In particular, the third and fifth fluid flow channels 104, 106 (and the first fluid flow channel) are in an open state and the second and / or fourth fluid flow channels 103, 105 are closed. Thus, heat is exchanged between the heated washing liquid from the sump flowing along the closed loop flow path and the fresh washing liquid flowing along the inlet flow path 66 via the heat exchanger 48.

[0155] As shown in Fig. 9, the housing 101 of the water distributor 100 may comprise a holding element 133 which is configured for receiving a fluid connection of the dishwasher such as a fluid connection of the draining path 92. The fluid connection is preferably held in its position by the bracket. The bracket may be formed integrally with the housing 101. Preferably the bracket is arranged below the housing 101 (i.e. the fluid connection extends below the housing 101).

[0156] As shown in Figs. 7 and 10, the water distributor is preferably mechanically attached to the tank assembly 42, in particular to a side wall of the tank assembly 42, wherein the outlet or inlet of each of the plurality of fluid flow channels 102-106 of the water distributor is mechanically engaged to a respective passage inlet 128a-d or passage outlet 127 of the tank assembly 42.

[0157] Preferably the tank assembly 42 is arranged between the tub 8 and the cabinet of the dishwasher in a first vertical plane and the housing of the water distributor 100 extends in a second vertical plane which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the first vertical plane. Preferably the outlet or inlet of each of the plurality of fluid flow channels 102-106 is directly connected to a respective or associated one of the inlets or outlets at the tank assembly 42, i.e. without a piping between the water distributor and the tank assembly. The water distributor 100 may comprise connection elements 129 (see Fig. 9) which are configured to connect the water distributor 100 to the tank assembly 42 by a detachable connection such as a screw connection. In particular, the tank assembly 42 may comprise connection elements 130b (see Fig. 13) which are configured to be connected to the connection elements 129 of the water distributor 100 by for example screws. Alternatively or additionally, the water distributor 100 is permanently connected to the tank assembly 42 for example by gluing or welding such as ultrasonic welding. Both types of connection may be provided so that the reliability of the connection and the watertightness of the connection is improved.

[0158] As shown in Figs. 10 and 11, the tank assembly 42 may comprise within the shell element 45b (tank housing) a plurality of fluid passages 126a-e for guiding liquids and being separated from each other, wherein each fluid passage has a passage inlet and passage outlet providing a liquid passage through the tank housing. The tank assembly 42 may comprise one or more or all of the following fluid passages:

[0159] - A first fluid passage 126a connecting a first passage inlet 128a of the tank assembly 42 to the softener assembly 40, and in particular the air gap flow conduit 74, wherein the first passage inlet 128a is fluidly connected to the first fluid outlet 102b of the water distributor 100.

[0160] - A second fluid passage 126b connecting a passage outlet 127 of the tank assembly 42 to the water tank outlet 73, wherein the passage outlet 128b is fluidly connected to the second fluid inlet 103a of the water distributor 100.

[0161] - A third fluid passage 126c connecting a second passage inlet 128b of the tank assembly 42 to the inlet 62b of the first passage 52 of the heat exchanger, wherein the second passage inlet 128b is fluidly connected to the third fluid outlet 104b of the water distributor 100.

[0162] - A fourth fluid passage 126d connecting a third passage inlet 128c of the tank assembly 42 to the inlet 97a of the bypass conduit 97, wherein the third passage inlet 128c is fluidly connected to the fourth fluid outlet 105b of the water distributor 100.

[0163] - A fifth fluid passage 126e connecting a fourth passage inlet 128d of the tank assembly 42 to the second passage 50 of the heat exchanger, wherein the fourth passage inlet 128d is fluidly connected to the fifth fluid outlet 106b of the water distributor 100.

[0164] Preferably the passage outlet 127 and the passage inlets 128a-d are arranged at a side wall or bottom wall of the tank assembly 42 in a spatial arrangement mechanically engaged to the spatial arrangement of the fluid outlets and inlets of the water distributor 101.

[0165] When in use the dishwasher 2 and when seen from a front view, the tank assembly 42 is arranged at a side wall of the cabinet and the passage outlet 127 and the passage inlets 128a-d are preferably arranged in a rear region of the tank assembly 42, in particular close to a side edge of the tank assembly housing 45b (see Figs. 10 and 13). Preferably the passage outlet 127 and the passage inlets 128a-d of the tank assembly 42 are arranged at a lower region of the tank assembly 42, in particular arranged close to a bottom edge of the tank assembly housing. As shown in Figs. 10, 11 and 13, the fluid passages 126a-e may extend in an inclined downwards direction to a lower region of the tank assembly 42 where the passage outlet 127 and the passage inlets 128a-d are arranged. In particular, the tank assembly 42 has in its lower region a downwards tapering extension 134 in at least one dimension, wherein the tapering extension 134 has an extension of at least 8 cm, 14 cm or 20 cm in vertical height. As shown in Fig. 13, the lower region preferably tapers towards one side edge, in particular in direction of a rear wall of the basement 6 and / or cabinet.

[0166] The inlets and outlets 128a-e of the tank assembly 42 are preferably arranged in a lower lateral region of the tank assembly, preferably below the heat exchanger. In particular, the inlets and outlets 128a-e of the tank assembly are arranged one above the other or are substantially arranged one above the other (see Fig. 13). The inlets and / or outlets 128a-e of the tank assembly 42 may be arranged vertically aligned in such a way that the horizontal spacing S between the centers of the passage inlets and / or outlets 128a-e of the tank assembly is less than 10 cm, 5 cm or 3 cm or the centers are vertically aligned or substantially vertically aligned. The spacing S of the inlets and outlets arranged at the inner surface side of the tank assembly 42 is schematically indicated in Fig. 13. As the counterpart inlets and outlets at the water distributor 100 are arranged in a mating structure, there the spacing S is identical. The inlets and / or outlets 128a-e of the tank assembly 42 may arranged one above the other or substantially one above the other in the lower lateral region in one or two vertical rows.

[0167] The inlets and outlets of the tank assembly 42 and the inlets and outlets of the water distributor 101 are preferably sealingly connected to each other via hydraulic quick connections comprising sealing elements 130, 131 configured to seal, in an assembled state, the connection between the inlets and outlets of the water distributor and the inlets and outlets of the tank assembly. This results in a watertight connection between the water distributor 100 and the tank assembly 42 and thus ensures a reliable operation of the dishwasher.

[0168] As shown in Figs. 3 and 6, at least a portion of the water distributor 100 may extend laterally from the tank assembly 42 (i.e. the portion extends into the interior of the basement 6 and / or between the tank assembly 42 and an opposing side wall of the cabinet or basement 6), wherein an inlet or outlet of each of the plurality of fluid flow channels 102-106 is arranged within said portion of the water distributor 100. In the first embodiment of the water distributor 100 the complete water distributor laterally extends from a side surface of the tank assembly 42, while in the second embodiment of the water distributor 100a only a portion 140a of the water distributor extends from a lateral side of the tank assembly 42a when seen in a top view - see Figs. 15 and 18. The attachment of the water distributor 100 to the tank assembly 42 and the portion of the water distributor 100 extending laterally from the tank assembly 42, in which an inlet or outlet of each of the plurality of fluid flow channels 102-106 is arranged, simplifies the assembly of the fluid flow channels. In particular, no piping is required between the water distributor 100 and the tank assembly 42 - i.e. a 'direct' hydraulic coupling between the water distributor 100 and the channels within the tank assembly 42 is provided. Moreover the number of fluid connections is reduced by direct coupling and thus the risk of potential leakage and / or the volume required for establishing hydraulic connections is reduced.

[0169] The water distributor 100 may be arranged at a lower region of the tank assembly 42. In particular, the water distributor 100 is arranged below the tub (see Figs. 2 and 3). At least a portion of the water distributor 100, preferably the entire water distributor, is arranged between the softener assembly 40 and a rear wall of the cabinet (see Fig. 3).

[0170] As shown in Figs. 8 and 12, the second fluid inlet 103a and fluid outlets 102b, 104b, 105b, 106b of the water distributor 100 are preferably arranged at one side or top wall of the water distributor 100. As mentioned above, said inlets and outlets of the water distributor 100 may be mechanically engaged to the passage outlet 127 and mating passage inlets 128a-d of the tank assembly 42. The fluid inlet 103a and the fluid outlets 102b, 104b, 105b, 106b of the fluid flow channels 102 to 106 of the water distributor 100, which are mechanically engaged to the respective inlets 128a-d and outlet 127 of the tank assembly 42, may be arranged in a first region of the housing, and the second outlet 103b and the inlets 102a, 104a, 105a, 106a of the water distributor (the "other" inlets and outlets of the water distributor) are arranged in a second region of the housing opposite to the first region (see Figs. 8 and 9). As mentioned above, in case a three-way valve 112 is provided, the fourth and fifth fluid inlets 105a, 106a are fluidly connected to the common fluid inlet 108 formed at the housing 101 of the water distributor 100 which is preferably fluidly connected to the outlet of the softener assembly. The inlet 108 and / or the second inlet 103a and / or the third inlet 104a preferably faces the softener assembly 40 (see Figs. 6 and 9). The first fluid inlet 102a preferably faces the rear wall of the basement 6 and / or the cabinet of the dishwasher (see Figs. 3 and 5).

[0171] As shown in Figs. 8 and 9, the housing 101 of the water distributor is preferably plate-shaped or substantially plate-shaped. In an assembled state, the housing 101 of the water distributor may be oriented vertically or substantially vertically - see Figs. 3, 5 and 6. Preferably the passage inlets 128a, 128c, 128d, 128e and passage outlet 128b of the tank assembly and the fluid inlet 103a and fluid outlets 102b, 104b, 105b, 106b extend in a horizontal or substantially horizontal direction. Fig. 15 is a perspective view of another water distributor 100a and tank assembly 42a, and Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the water distributor of Fig. 15. The tank assembly 42a as shown in Fig. 15 is similar to the tank assembly 42 as shown in the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 14. In the following only the differences between the tank assembly 42a of Fig. 15 and the tank assembly 42 of Figs. 1 to 14 is described. The other features described above are thus also applicable to the tank assembly 42a.

[0172] The tank assembly 42a has the same functionality and similar fluid passages as the tank assembly 42 of Figs. 1 to 14, but differs from the tank assembly 42 of Figs. 1 to 14 in that the tank assembly 42 does not comprise the downwards tapering extension 134 in which the fluid passages 126a-e are guided to an edge region of the tank assembly 42. The inlets and the outlet of the tank assembly 42a are arranged at a bottom region of the tank assembly 42a and in particular extend downwardly from a bottom wall of the tank assembly 42a, i.e. the inlets and the outlet face or are (preferably vertically) aligned to the bottom wall of the basement 6. The inlets and the outlet of the tank assembly 42a are arranged in a horizontal or substantially horizontal row (see Figs. 15 and 18).

[0173] As shown in Fig. 15, the water distributor 100a is arranged at least partially below the tank assembly 42a. In particular, the water distributor comprises a housing 140 having a first portion 140a and a second portion 140b which is connected to the first portion 140a. The water distributor 100a may comprise the fluid flow channels 102-106 mentioned above with respect to the water distributor 100, wherein the fluid flow channels 102-106 extend between the first portion 140a and the second portion 140b of the water distributor 100a (i.e. the first and second portions 140a, 140b are preferably mechanically and fluidly connected to each other such that a first part of a fluid flow channel is comprised in the first portion 140a of the housing and a second part of the fluid flow channel in the second portion 140b of the housing). In particular, the second portion 140b comprises the inlets and outlets of the water distributor 100a which are mechanically engaged to the tank assembly 42a (i.e. the second fluid inlet and the fluid outlets 102b, 104b, 105b, 106b, see Fig. 16). Preferably the inlets and outlets of the water distributor, which are mechanically engaged to the tank assembly 42a, are arranged on a top wall of the second portion 140b of the housing. The first portion 140a of the housing 140 preferably comprises one ore more or all of the first fluid inlet 102a, the fluid inlet 108 connected to the three-way valve, the third fluid inlet 104a, and the second fluid outlet 103b. In particular the first fluid inlet 102a is arranged on an opposite side wall of the first portion 140a of the housing 140 compared to the fluid inlet 108, the third fluid inlet 104a and / or the second fluid outlet 103b. The second portion 140b of the housing 140 is preferably mechanically attached from below to the tank assembly 42a. The second portion 140b of the housing 140 may be arranged at least partially between the tank assembly 42a and the softener assembly 40 (which is omitted in Figs. 15 to 18 but similarly arranged as shown in Fig. 6). The housing 140 and in particular the second portion 140a of the housing may comprise a mounting element 144 such that the water distributor can be mechanically connected to the softener assembly 40 arranged below the water distributor 100a. The second portion 140a of the housing may comprise a bracket element 132 which is adapted to receive the softener outlets 40a, 40b of the tank assembly 42. The mounting element 144 may be integrated in or may extend from the bracket element 132. The mounting element 144 may be a snap-in element configured to form a snap-in connection with the softener assembly 40.

[0174] The first portion 140a may extend laterally from the tank assembly 42a (for example when seen in top view) and in particular, the first portion 140a extends perpendicular or substantially perpendicular from the second portion 140b. The second portion 140b preferably extends along a full or partial width of the bottom side of the tank assembly 42a. Preferably the first portion 140a of the housing 140 is covered by a first cover element 142a and the second portion 140b of the housing 140 is covered by a second cover element 142b. In an assembled state of the water distributor 100, the cover elements 142a, 142b are preferably mounted or attached watertight to the housing 140 (see Fig. 16). The three-way valve 112 and the tank valve 114 may be attached to the housing 140 or may be integrated in the housing, i.e. the valves and the housing 140 form a single unit. The three-way valve 112 and the tank valve may be arranged at a same side wall of the housing 101, preferably on the cover element 142a of the water distributor 100.

[0175] As shown in Figs. 17 and 18 the second portion 140b may form a downwards tapering extension in at least one dimension, wherein the tapering extension has an extension of at least 8 cm, 14 cm or 20 cm in vertical height. In particular, the lower region preferably tapers towards the first portion 140a of the housing 140, in particular in direction of a rear wall of the basement 6 and / or cabinet. The portion of at least some of the fluid flow channels 102-106 of the water distributor 100a comprised in the second portion 140b of the housing may extend in an inclined downwards direction to a lower region of second portion 140b where the first and second portions 140a, 140b are mechanically and fluidly connected to each other. Reference Numeral List

[0176] 2 articles treatment machine (e.g. dishwasher)

[0177] 6 basement

[0178] 8 tub

[0179] 10, 12 side wall (tub)

[0180] 14 top wall (tub)

[0181] 16 rear wall (tub)

[0182] 18 tub bottom

[0183] 20 sump

[0184] 24 circulation pump

[0185] 26 flow controller

[0186] 28 first washing fluid outlet

[0187] 30 second washing fluid outlet

[0188] 32 third washing fluid outlet

[0189] 33 fourth washing fluid outlet

[0190] 34 fifth washing fluid outlet

[0191] 40 softener assembly

[0192] 40a outlet to salt container

[0193] 40b outlet to resin container

[0194] 42, 42a tank assembly

[0195] 44 water tank

[0196] 45a cover element of tank assembly

[0197] 45b shell element (tank housing)

[0198] 46 tub outlet of tank

[0199] 48 heat exchanger (e.g. tube-in-tube heat exchanger)

[0200] 50 second passage (outer tube of heat exchanger)

[0201] 52 first passage (inner tube of heat exchanger)

[0202] 53 disk portion

[0203] 54 disk

[0204] 56 CAM disk

[0205] 57 motor

[0206] 58 housing of flow controller

[0207] 59 inlet of flow controller

[0208] 60a outlet of outer tube

[0209] 60b inlet of outer tube

[0210] 62a outlet of inner tube

[0211] 62b inlet of inner tube 64 closed loop flow path

[0212] 66 return channel

[0213] 68 inlet flow path

[0214] 70 flow channel

[0215] 72 inlet of tank

[0216] 73 tank outlet

[0217] 74 air gap flow conduit

[0218] 75 air gap flow conduit inlet

[0219] 76 air gap / air break

[0220] 78 inflow connection to water mains

[0221] 80 overflow conduit

[0222] 90 drain pump

[0223] 92 draining path

[0224] 94a-c first / second / third draining path sections

[0225] 96a, b inlet / outlet of second draining path

[0226] 97 bypass conduit

[0227] 97a inlet of bypass conduit

[0228] 100, 100a water distributor

[0229] 101 housing

[0230] 101a cover element of water distributor housing

[0231] 102 first fluid flow channel of water distributor

[0232] 102a, b first fluid inlet / first fluid outlet of water distributor

[0233] 103 second fluid flow channel of water distributor

[0234] 103a, b second fluid inlet / second fluid outlet of water distributor

[0235] 104 third fluid flow channel of water distributor

[0236] 104a, b third fluid inlet / third fluid outlet of water distributor

[0237] 105 fourth fluid flow channel of water distributor

[0238] 105a, b fourth fluid inlet / fourth fluid outlet of water distributor

[0239] 106 fifth fluid flow channel of water distributor

[0240] 106a, b fifth fluid inlet / fifth fluid outlet of water distributor

[0241] 108 inlet connected to inlet of valve element

[0242] 112 valve element (e.g. three-way valve)

[0243] 112a valve inlet of valve element

[0244] 113a first valve outlet of valve element

[0245] 113b second valve outlet of valve element

[0246] 114 tank valve

[0247] 120 pipe element (connecting softener outlet with an inlet of water distributor)

[0248] 122 pipe element (connecting outlet of second fluid flow channel with sump) 124 pipe element (connecting outlet of sump with inlet of third fluid flow channel)

[0249] 126a-e first / second / third / fourth / fifth fluid passage

[0250] 127 passage outlet of tank assembly

[0251] 128a-d first / second / third / fourth passage inlet of tank assembly 129, 130b connection element

[0252] 130, 131 sealing element (gasket)

[0253] 132 bracket for receiving fluid connection to softener assembly

[0254] 133 holding element

[0255] 134 tapering extension of tank assembly 140 housing

[0256] 140a, 140b first / second portion of housing

[0257] 142a, 142b first / second cover element of water distributor housing

[0258] 144 mounting element

[0259] S spacing

Claims

Claims:

1. Articles treatment machine (2), in particular a dishwasher, comprising: a cabinet, a tub (8) for washing articles therein and being arranged in the cabinet, a sump (20) for collecting washing liquid from the tub (8), a tank assembly (42, 42a) comprising a heat exchanger (48) having a first passage (52) and a second passage (50) being in heat-exchanging contact with each other, and a water tank (44) for storing fresh water and having a tank outlet (73), a softener assembly (40) adapted for softening of water flowing therethrough, and a water distributor (100, 100a) having a housing (101, 140) and within the housing a plurality of fluid flow channels (102-106) separated from each other, each of the fluid flow channels having a fluid inlet (102a, 103a, 104a, 105a, 106a, 108) and a fluid outlet (102b, 103b, 104b, 105b, 106b) at the housing, wherein a first fluid flow channel (104) extends between a first fluid inlet (104a) and a first fluid outlet (104b) of the water distributor, wherein the first fluid inlet (104a) is fluidly connected to an outlet at the sump (20) and the first fluid outlet (104b) is fluidly connected to an inlet of the first passage (52) through the heat exchanger, and wherein the water distributor (100, 100a) is mechanically attached to the tank assembly (42, 42a) and wherein at least one outlet (102b, 104b, 105b, 106b) or inlet (103a) of the plurality of fluid flow channels (102-106) is mechanically engaged to an inlet (128a-d) or outlet (127) of the tank assembly, wherein in particular the first fluid outlet (104b) of the first fluid flow channel (104) is mechanically engaged to an inlet (128b) of the tank assembly.

2. Articles treatment machine of claim 1, wherein the water distributor (100a) is arranged at least partially below the tank assembly and / or at least a portion of the water distributor (100, 100a) is arranged laterally at the lower region of the tank assembly (42, 42a).

3. Articles treatment machine of claim 1 or 2,wherein the tank assembly (42) extends between the tub (8) and the cabinet along a vertical plane, and wherein the housing (101) of the water distributor or at least a portion of the housing (140) extends along a second plane being perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the vertical plane.

4. Articles treatment machine of claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the water distributor (100, 100a) is arranged below the tub (8), and / or wherein at least a portion of the water distributor (100, 100a), preferably the entire water distributor (100), is arranged between the softener assembly (40) and a rear wall of the cabinet.

5. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein the water distributor (100) is mechanically attached to a side wall of the tank assembly (42) or wherein the water distributor (100a) is mechanically attached from below to the tank assembly (42a).

6. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein the water distributor (100, 100a) is mechanically attached to the tank assembly (42, 42a) by a detachable connection such as a screw connection, and / or wherein the water distributor (100, 100a) is permanently connected to the tank assembly (42, 42a) by welding or gluing.

7. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein all inlets (103a) and outlets (102b, 104b, 105b, 106b) of the water distributor (100, 100a) that are arranged at one side or top wall of the water distributor are mechanically engaged to mating outlets (127) and inlets (128a-d) of the tank assembly.

8. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein the inlets (128a-d) and outlets (127) of the tank assembly (42, 42a) and respective associated ones of the inlets (103a) and outlets (102b, 104b, 105b, 106b) of the water distributor (100, 100a) are sealingly engaged to each other via hydraulic engaging connections comprising gaskets (130, 131).

9. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein an inlet (103a) or outlet (102b, 104b, 105b, 106b) of each fluid flow channel (102-106) of the water distributor (100) mechanically engaged to an inlet (128a-d) and / or outlet (127) of the tank assembly is arranged in a first region of the housing (101), wherein said first region engages a connection region of the tank assembly (42) where inlets and / or outlets of the tank assembly are provided, andwherein an outlet (103b) or inlet (102a, 104a, 105a, 106a, 108) of each fluid flow channel (102-106) of the water distributor is arranged in a second region of the housing opposite to the first region, wherein preferably at least one inlet (104a, 108) or outlet of the fluid flow channels (102-106) faces the softener assembly (40) and / or at least one inlet (102a) or outlet of the fluid flow channels faces the rear wall of the dishwasher (2).

10. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (101) of the water distributor (100) is plate- shaped or substantially plate- shaped, and / or wherein the housing (101) of the water distributor is oriented vertically or substantially vertically.

11. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein the inlets (103a) and outlets (102b, 104b, 105b, 106b) of the plurality of fluid flow channels (102-106), which are mechanically engaged to inlets (128a-d) or outlets (127) of the tank assembly (42), extend in a horizontal or substantially horizontal direction.

12. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein the inlets (128a-d) and outlets (127) of the tank assembly (42) are arranged in a lower lateral region of the tank assembly, preferably below the heat exchanger (44), and / or wherein the inlets (128a-d) and outlets (127) of the tank assembly (42) are arranged one above the other or are substantially arranged one above the other, and / or wherein the inlets (128a-d) and / or outlets (127) of the tank assembly (42) are arranged at a side wall of the tank assembly (42) and are arranged vertically aligned in such a way that the horizontal spacing (S) between the centers of the inlets and / or outlets of the group is less than 10 cm, 5 cm or 3 cm or the centers are vertically aligned or substantially vertically aligned.

13. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein the articles treatment machine comprises a closed loop flow path (64) comprising the outlet at the sump (20), the first fluid flow channel (104), the first passage (52) through the heat exchanger, a return channel (66) connecting an outlet of the first passage (52) of the heat exchanger to an outlet (46) connected to the tub (8) or sump (20).

14. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein the articles treatment machine comprises an inlet flow path (68) comprising an inflow connection towater mains (78), the softener assembly (40), the second passage (50) of the heat exchanger, the water tank (44), and the tank outlet (73) connected to the sump (20).

15. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of fluid flow channels (102-106) arranged within the housing (101, 140) of the water distributor (100, 100a) comprises one or more or all of the following fluid paths: the first fluid flow channel (104); a second fluid flow channel (102) extending between a second fluid inlet (102a) and a second fluid outlet (102b) of the water distributor (100), preferably forming part of a or the inlet flow path (68), wherein the second fluid inlet (102a) is connected to an inflow connection to water mains (78) and the second fluid outlet (102b) is connected to an inlet of the softener assembly (40); a third fluid flow channel (106) extending between a third fluid inlet (106a, 108) and a third fluid outlet (106b) of the water distributor, preferably forming part of the inlet flow path, wherein the third fluid inlet (106a, 108) is connected to an outlet of the softener assembly (40) and the third fluid outlet (106b) is connected to the second passage (50) of the heat exchanger such that the fresh water from the softener assembly (40) is guided to the water tank (44) via the heat exchanger (48); a fourth fluid flow channel (105) extending between a fourth fluid inlet (105a, 108) and a fourth fluid outlet (105b) of the water distributor, preferably forming part of the inlet flow path, wherein the fourth fluid inlet (105a, 108) is connected to the outlet of the softener assembly (40) and the fourth fluid outlet (105b) is connected to the sump (20) or tub (8) such that fresh water from the softener assembly is guided to the sump (20) or tub (8) bypassing the heat exchanger (48); and a fifth fluid flow channel (103) extending between a fifth fluid inlet (103a) and a fifth fluid outlet (103b) of the water distributor, wherein the fourth fluid inlet (103a) is connected to the tank outlet (73) and the fifth fluid outlet (103b) is connected to the sump (20) or tub (8) such that fresh water from the water tank (73) is guided to the sump (20) or tub (8).

16. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein the water distributor (100, 100a) further comprises: at least one valve (112) arranged downstream of a fluid inlet (108) of the water distributor which is fluidly connected to the third and fourth fluid flow channel (106, 105), wherein the at least one valve is adapted to selectively guide fresh water along the third fluid flow channel (106) or the fourth fluid flow channel (105), and / or a tank valve (114) arranged in the fifth fluid flow channel (103) and being adapted to block or allow the flow of the fresh water out of the water tank (44) into the tub (8) or sump (20),wherein preferably the at least one valve (112) and / or the tank valve (114) are attached to the housing (101, 140) or are integrated in the housing, and / or wherein the at least one valve (112) and / or the tank valve (114) facing a rear wall of the cabinet.

17. Articles treatment machine of claim 16, wherein the at least one valve (112) is a three- way valve, wherein a or the third fluid flow channel (106) connects a first valve outlet (113a) of the three-way valve to the third inlet (106a) of the water distributor, wherein a or the fourth fluid flow channel (105) connects a second valve outlet (113b) of the three-way valve to the fourth inlet (105a) of the water distributor, and wherein preferably a or the fluid inlet (108) of the water distributor, which is connected to an outlet of the softener assembly, is fluidly connected to a valve inlet (112a) of the three-way valve.

18. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, in particular when dependent on claim 15, further comprising a control unit for controlling the operation of the treatment machine, wherein the control unit is adapted to control the water distributor (100, 101) such that it is switched to one or more or all of the following switching states:- a first switching state in which fresh water flows along the second fluid flow channel (102) and the third fluid flow channel (106),- a second switching state in which fresh water flows along the second fluid flow channel (102) and the fourth fluid flow (105) channel bypassing the water tank (44) and heat exchanger (48),- a third switching state in which fresh water from the water tank (44) flows along the fifth fluid flow channel (103),- optionally a fourth switching state in which water from the sump (20) flows along a closed loop path (64) comprising the first fluid flow channel (104) and the first passage (52) through the heat exchanger and fresh water flows along the third fluid flow channel (106) and the second passage (50) of the heat exchanger into the water tank (44).

19. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, wherein the heat exchanger (48) is a tube-in-tube heat exchanger comprising an inner tube forming the first (or the second) passage (52, 50) of the heat exchanger and an outer tube forming the second (or first) passage (50, 52) of the heat exchanger, andwherein the inner tube having a smaller cross section is arranged within the outer tube having a larger cross section.

20. Articles treatment machine of any of the preceding claims, in particular when dependent on claim 15, wherein the treatment machine comprises a bypass conduit (97) being part of an or the inlet flow path (68), and wherein an inlet (97a) of the bypass conduit is connected to the fourth fluid outlet (105b) of the water distributor and an outlet of the bypass conduit (97) is connected to the sump (20) or tub (8), wherein preferably at least a portion of the bypass conduit (97) is arranged within the tank assembly (42, 42a) and wherein the outlet of the bypass conduit (97) is a or the tub outlet (46) being arranged within the water tank (44).

Images