Kitchen Or Tableware Patents (Class 134/25.2)
  • Publication number: 20140202500
    Abstract: Methods of acidic warewashing are disclosed. The compositions can include other materials including surfactants and chelating agents, and are preferably phosphorous free. Methods of using the acidic compositions in combination with alkaline compositions are also disclosed. Exemplary methods include using the acidic compositions together with other compositions, including alkaline compositions and rinse aids employed in an alternating alkaline/acid/alkaline manner. The methods also include acidic compositions that serve multiple roles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Lee J. Monsrud, Michael S. Rischmiller, Daniel Osterberg, John Mansergh
  • Patent number: 8785363
    Abstract: The invention discloses synergistic combinations of surfactants blends and cleaning composition. In certain embodiments a surfactant system is disclosed which includes extended anionic surfactants, linker surfactants, and a multiply charged cation component. This system forms emulsions with, and can remove greasy and oily stains, even those comprised of non-trans fats. In another embodiment anionic surfactants are combined with a solvent, and amine oxide to remove sunscreen stains. The compositions may be used alone, as a pre-spotter or other pre-treatment or as a part of a soft surface or hard surface cleaning composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Victor Fuk-Pong Man, Michael Charles DeNoma, Yvonne Marie Killeen, Steven E. Lentsch
  • Patent number: 8784571
    Abstract: A method of cleaning dishware with a liquid detergent composition having an amphiphilic graft polymer, to provide improved grease cleaning and sudsing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Tristan Schütz, Stephen Michael Grindell, Frank Hulskotter, James Lee Danziger, Maria Angeles Gomez Ruiz, Kevin George Goodall, Valerio Delduca
  • Patent number: 8778086
    Abstract: A method of cleaning residue from a surface using a disposable cellulosic wiper that includes from about 25% or more by weight of pulp-derived papermaking fibers. The pulp-derived papermaking fibers have a characteristic scattering coefficient of less than 50 m2/kg. The wiper also has from about 25% to about 75% by weight of fibrillated regenerated independent cellulosic microfibers. The fibers are finer than 14 mesh, have a characteristic Canadian Standard Freeness (CSF) value of less than 175 ml, have a number average diameter of less than about 2 microns, and are present in amounts such that the wiper exhibits a scattering coefficient of greater than 50 m2/kg. The wiper is applied, with a predetermined amount of pressure, to a residue-bearing surface. The surface is wiped with the applied wiper to remove residue from the surface, such that the surface has less than 1 g/m2 of residue after being wiped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP
    Inventors: Daniel W. Sumnicht, Joseph H. Miller
  • Patent number: 8778090
    Abstract: A method to operate a dishwasher, comprising: (1) adding detergent to a cleaning liquid which is circulated within the dishwasher; (2) measuring the conductivity of the cleaning liquid and determining the rate of change in conductivity caused by dissolution of the detergent in the cleaning liquid; (3) comparing the rate of change in conductivity with a predetermined threshold value so as to determine the dissolution rate of the detergent that has been added in step (A) to the cleaning liquid; and (4) adjusting operating parameters based on the determination of step (C).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products Corporation N.V.
    Inventors: Stefan Fuglein, Klaus-Martin Forst, Hansjorg Lampe
  • Publication number: 20140190525
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide systems, methods, and apparatuses for providing dedicated spray coverage for silverware and dishware positioned within a silverware basket. In an example embodiment, the dishwasher includes a tub configured to receive dishware and a circulation system configured to circulate fluid within the tub. The dishwasher further includes a silverware basket disposed within the tub and comprising a handle portion and a basket portion. The basket portion is configured to receive dishware therein. The handle portion defines at least one spray jet opening that is configured to be in fluid communication with the circulation system and configured to direct fluid toward the basket portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Ralph A. Porcaro, II, James L. Burrows
  • Publication number: 20140182625
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dishwasher that can save wash water for cleaning and a method of controlling the dishwasher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Inventors: Sanghoon LEE, Moonkee CHUNG, Jaechul LEE
  • Patent number: 8764908
    Abstract: A method of controlling the operation of a dishwasher having a tub defining a wash chamber and at least one dish rack located within the wash chamber. The dishwasher also has at least one spray arm located in the wash chamber and at least one nozzle located in the wash chamber and configured to provide a spray of liquid toward the dish rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Chad T. VanderRoest, Jay C. Landsiedel, Christopher J. Carlson, Vincent P. Gurubatham, Edward L. Thies
  • Publication number: 20140174478
    Abstract: An automatic dishwashing detergent composition containing a suds suppressor, a high foaming surfactant, a low foaming non-ionic surfactant, and a builder provides for superior cleaning without high levels of foam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Nathalie Sophie LETZELTER, Sandrine VIALLET, Robby Renilde Francois KEULEERS
  • Patent number: 8759277
    Abstract: The invention involves foam stabilization compositions that rely upon anonionic/hydrophobic interaction. According to the invention, an associative thickener is used to provide long range nonionic/hydrophobic interaction with the hydrophobic groups of the surfactants present in the same. The interaction must be of sufficient character so that the components can maintain long range intermolecular networking, causing longer lasting and increased foam production, even in the presence of hydrophobic/oily soils. The system provides an environmentally friendly alternative for traditional foaming enhancers such as cocamide DEA.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Victor Fuk-Pong Man, Yvonne Marie Killeen
  • Patent number: 8758520
    Abstract: Methods of acidic warewashing are disclosed. The compositions can include other materials including surfactants and chelating agents, and are preferably phosphorous free. Methods of using the acidic compositions are also disclosed. Exemplary methods include using the acidic compositions together with other compositions, including alkaline compositions and rinse aids employed in an alternating alkaline/acid/alkaline manner. The methods also include acidic compositions that serve multiple roles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Lee J. Monsrud, Michael S. Rischmiller, Daniel Osterberg, John Mansergh
  • Patent number: 8759270
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dishwashing composition comprising abrasive particles and a suspending aid selected from the group consisting of crystalline wax structurants, micro-fibril-cellulose, amido-gellants, di-benzylidene polyol acetal derivatives, and mixtures thereof, and the process and use thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Eva Maria Perez-Prat Vinuesa, Denis Alfred Gonzales, Anna Asmanidou, Susana Fernandez Prieto
  • Patent number: 8759274
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to self-emulsifiable compositions comprising polyolefines, in particular polyisobutene, the process to obtain said emulsions and the use of said emulsions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: BASF SE
    Inventors: Rainer Dobrawa, Dieter Boeckh, Rajan K. Panandiker, Julie Menkhaus, Frank Huelskoetter
  • Patent number: 8759276
    Abstract: The invention involves foam stabilization compositions that rely upon an electrostatic charge interaction. According to the invention, the positively charged class of polymers such as polyethyleneimine (PEI) polymers are used to provide a long range electrostatic interaction with detersive anionic or amphoteric surfactants present in the same. The interaction must be of sufficient character so that the components do not precipitate out, instead causing longer lasting and increased foam production. The system provides an environmentally friendly alternative for traditional foaming enhancers such as cocamide DEA.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Victor Fuk-Pong Man, Yvonne Marie Killeen
  • Publication number: 20140171354
    Abstract: Detergent compositions including at least one AMPS copolymer, at least one maleic acid polymer, an alkaline agent and optional additives are disclosed. Embodiments of the present invention are phosphorus free, and exhibit reduced scale accumulation for warewashing applications. Solid embodiments of the present invention may be disintegrant free.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2014
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Altony Miralles, Michelle Fung, John Krueger
  • Publication number: 20140170194
    Abstract: The present application relates to perfume raw materials, perfumes, perfume delivery systems and consumer products comprising such perfume raw materials, perfumes and/or such perfume delivery systems, as well as processes for making and using such perfume raw materials, perfume delivery systems and consumer products. The perfumes disclosed herein expand the perfume communities' options.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Jonathan Robert CETTI, Zerlina Guzdar DUBOIS, Virginia Tzung-Hwei HUTCHINS, Michael Wayne KINSEY, Christine Marie READNOUR
  • Patent number: 8753453
    Abstract: The invention relates to methods and compositions that may be used in a pre-soak system which maintains whitening and eliminates concerns of chlorine stability. The compositions and methods may be used for laundry, toilet bowl cleaners, ware wash cleaners, floor cleaners and the like. The system and compositions are particularly suited for laundry in a pre-soak system that includes the use of a “strainer” or basket for accomplishing the pre-soak step. Heavier soils fall to the bottom of the receptacle while greasy soils float to the top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Melissa Martinez-Crowley, Amie Blanks, Rachel Moore
  • Patent number: 8754025
    Abstract: Dosage elements to be consumed in use in a ware washing machine are made by (a) forming a main container part within a cavity of a mold; (b) providing the main container part with a first substance; (c) adhering a second substance to the underside of a part which is to form a lid of the dosage element; and (d) sealing the lid-forming part to the main container part so as to close the main container part and enclose the first and second substances within it; wherein the second substance covers at least 5% of the free area of the lid-forming part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Reckitt Benckiser N.V.
    Inventors: Ralf Wiedemann, Pavlinka Roy, Frederic Moreux
  • Patent number: 8747570
    Abstract: A concentrate cleaning composition includes water, glycerine, and at least one alkyl polyglycoside. The water may be present in an amount of greater than about 65% by weight. Glycerine may be present in an amount between about 0.05% and about 8% by weight of the cleaning composition. The at least one alkyl polyglycoside may be present in an amount of between about 1% and about 25% by weight of the cleaning composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Charles A. Hodge, Amanda R. Blattner, Timothy J. Kohnke, Mark D. Levitt, Julie E. Marquardt, Christopher M. McGuirk, Carter M. Silvernail, Dale Larson
  • Publication number: 20140144472
    Abstract: This invention concerns dosage elements for a ware washing machine and a method of manufacturing such dosage elements. In embodiments of the invention a dosage element comprises first (10) and second (20) joined parts, wherein the first part (10) is a part which, prior to joining with the second part (20), comprised an open receptacle and wherein the second part (20) comprises a substrate carrying a plurality of mutually separated substances A, B, C arranged in side by side relation. The second part (20) is joined to said first part (10) so as to close said receptacle and enclose said substances within it. Dosage elements produced in the inventive method are pleasant to handle, whilst being surprisingly resistant to damage in handling or transit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: RECKITT BENCKISER N.V.
    Inventors: Ralf Wiedemann, Pavlinka Roy, Frederic Moreux
  • Patent number: 8734592
    Abstract: A method is provided for operating a dishwasher with at least one partial program step that includes heating a rinsing solution to a nominal temperature. Air that is heated by a heating device and used for desorption of a reversibly dehydratable material is conducted from a washing container of the dishwasher or ambient air is conducted through a sorption column with reversibly dehydratable material into the washing container in order to heat the rinsing solution and/or items to be washed. The heating device continues to operate after the desorbed state of the reversibly dehydratable material has been attained until the nominal temperature of the rinsing solution is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete
    Inventors: Helmut Jerg, Kai Paintner
  • Patent number: 8734590
    Abstract: A dishwasher including a control device in which a wash program is stored to control a wash cycle for cleaning items to be washed. A water inlet device has a hot-water valve to take in hot water from an external hot-water supply and a cold-water valve to take in cold water from an external cold-water supply. The wash program has a wash step including an intake phase for taking in water via the water inlet device and a spraying phase for spraying the items to be washed with washing liquor containing the water that has been taken in via the water inlet device. The wash program includes a first phase of the intake phase during which the hot water is taken in via the hot-water valve and during which the temperature of the hot water that has been taken is measured by a temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Helmut Jerg, Michael Rosenbauer
  • Patent number: 8734591
    Abstract: A dishwasher is provided with an auxiliary dispenser to be selectively, conveniently attached to a dish rack for movement with the dish rack into and out of a dishwasher tub, with the dispenser including a storage compartment for housing a washing agent, an inlet leading to the storage compartment and an outlet leading from the storage compartment. When the dish rack is in the recessed position, the inlet of the dispenser is arranged in fluid communication with a fluid conduit system which delivers washing fluid to at least one spray nozzle of the dishwasher, while an outlet of the dispenser leads to a washing compartment of the tub. With this arrangement, at least a portion of the washing fluid directed to the at least one spray nozzle will be forced to flow through the storage compartment in order to pick up additional washing agent for enhanced cleansing purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Paul E. Beshears, Jr., Kristopher L. Delgado, Scott D. Slabbekoorn, Barry E. Tuller
  • Publication number: 20140137898
    Abstract: The invention relates to a detergent dispensing device for an automatic washing machine. In particular the invention relates to a simple multi-dosing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: RECKITT BENCKISER N.V.
    Inventors: Marine Cabirol, Ian Gaylor, Lucia Krubasik, Judith Preuschen
  • Patent number: 8729004
    Abstract: Chemical compositions and method of making the same are disclosed. The disclosed chemical compositions are particularly useful in methods of removing unwanted components within a papermaking process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: West End Products, LLC
    Inventors: Dennis Z. Lasik, William F. Mullen
  • Patent number: 8721802
    Abstract: A condition warning system for an apparatus such as a pot and pan washing machine, a control system and control methods for a pot and pan washing machine are provided. The condition warning system includes a control system that monitors operational, safety or compliance parameters of an apparatus, and a light that illuminates a location below (or above) an operator's direct line of sight, and which is outside of the operator's direct line of sight. The control system and control methods include a punitive wash action lockout, an extended wash cycle time, and a deep clean wash cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Unified Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: John W. Cantrell, Mark Churchill
  • Patent number: 8721799
    Abstract: A method for controlling and monitoring operation of a dishwasher appliance is provided and includes directing a first automatic wash cycle within a series of automatic wash cycles to be executed by the dishwasher appliance with a control device associated therewith. Each wash cycle is configured to have an increased energy usage level over a previous automatic wash cycle, and the energy usage level for each wash cycle is determined from at least one operational parameter associated with each respective automatic wash cycle. The method further includes directing a second automatic wash cycle, following the first automatic wash cycle, to be executed by the dishwasher appliance with the control device in response to a selection with an actuator device operably engaged with the control device. The selection may be based on a cleanliness evaluation of dishware washed by the dishwasher appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Troy Dalsing, Michael Bryan Pike, Jason Duckworth
  • Patent number: 8721801
    Abstract: A method of warewashing is provided. A combination detergent rinse aid composition is used according to the invention. The warewashing detergent composition includes an alkaline source and a water-soluble anion. The rinse aid composition comprises an acid. The alkaline source is provided in an amount effective to provide a use composition having a pH of at least about 8. The anion is present in sufficient amount to leave a residue of anions on the surface of the wares. The acid of the rinse aid has a sufficiently low pKa to react with the anions to form an insoluble oxide on the surface of the wares. The insoluble oxide reduces the surface tension of water on the surface of the wares thus reducing water spotting. Methods for using and manufacturing a combination warewashing detergent-rinse aid composition are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventor: Kim R. Smith
  • Publication number: 20140124008
    Abstract: An automatic dishwashing detergent composition comprising: a. at least 0.1 mg of active protease per gram of composition, wherein the protease is a variant of a protease that has at least 70% identity with the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:1. wherein said variant comprise variations in one or more of the following positions: 32, 33, 48-54, 58-62, 94-107, 116, 123-133, 150, 152-156, 158-161, 164, 169, 175-186, 197, 198, 203-216 as compared with the protease in SEQ ID NO:1; and b. at least 0.05 mg of an active low temperature amylase per gram of composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY
    Inventor: Philip Frank Souter
  • Patent number: 8716211
    Abstract: The invention provides a solid dishwashing detergent composition comprising an amount of from 0.01 to 10 % wt of one or more anionic polyesters. The compositions exhibit good drying properties, especially on plasticware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Reckitt Benckiser N.V.
    Inventors: Laurence Geret, Clare Louise Jackson, Gunnar Noding
  • Patent number: 8708160
    Abstract: A device is provided for filtering particles from a dishwashing fluid in a dishwashing machine, the dishwashing machine having a dishwashing container in which are disposed items to be subjected to the application of a dishwashing liquid thereto such that particles disentrained from the items during the application of a dishwashing liquid are entrained with the dishwashing liquid. The device includes a container operable to retain therein a predetermined quantity of a liquid mixed with at least one of a foam-forming substance and cleaning agents, the container including an arrangement for producing a flow of a gaseous fluid through the predetermined quantity of the liquid so as to generate a foam layer. The foam layer filters out from a dishwashing liquid passed through the foam layer a substantial fraction of particles entrained with the dishwashing liquid and such filtered-out particles are retained in the foam layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: M. Yavuz Dedegil, Rüdiger Eiermann, Helmut Jerg
  • Patent number: 8709169
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of an alkyl di(lower alkyl)mono(polyoxyethylene) quaternary ammonium compound as a hydrotrope in 5 aqueous solutions for a nonionic surfactant, preferably a C8-C18-alcohol alkoxylate containing 1-20 ethyleneoxy units and 0-5 propyleneoxy units. It also relates to a composition comprising said quaternary ammonium compound and said nonionic surfactant. The cationic surfactant has the formula 10 R2+R(1)N(CH2CH2O)n H X R1 wherein R?C6-C22 alkyl; R1 and R2 are independently a C1-C4 alkyl group; n=8-25; and X? is an anion. The compositions may be used for the cleaning of hard surfaces, for example for vehicle cleaning or machine dishwashing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Akzo Nobel N.V.
    Inventors: Mahnaz Company, Kornelis Overkempe, Adrianus Marinus Groenewegen
  • Patent number: 8709166
    Abstract: Methods for extracting bisphenols from polymer substrates are described. The methods include contacting the polymer substrate with an aqueous composition which includes a phase transfer agent, a base and optionally an oxidant, whereby the bisphenol is extracted into the aqueous composition. Suitable phase transfer agents are delineated. Also described are compositions which can be used in the present methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Empire Technology Development LLC
    Inventor: Kraig Anderson
  • Patent number: 8709167
    Abstract: A method of warewashing for the removal of starch is described herein. The method includes applying an alkaline composition to a dish, then applying an acidic composition to a dish, and then applying a second alkaline composition to the dish. The method may include additional steps. Compositions for using with the method are also disclosed. Finally, dish machines that may be used in accordance with the method are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Werner Strothoff, Winfried Troll, Helmut Maier, John P. Furber, Bryan A. Maser, Michael E. Besse
  • Patent number: 8709168
    Abstract: Hard surfaces can be treated to improve soil resistance, particularly resistance to oily soils, by applying a composition of a quaternised, polyamine, polypropoxylate, polyethoxylate. The polyamine can be a polyethyleneimme, desirably having a molecular weight of from 10 to 50 kDa. The average length of the polypropylenoxy chains is desirably from 10 to 100 and the polyethylenoxy chains from 5 to 50 (each per NH group in the polyamine), particularly at a molar ratio of PO:EO of about 3:1. The degree of quaternization of the nitrogen atoms in the polyamine is desirably from 70 to 100%. The polymer will usually be used in solution in water or an aqueous formulation, which may include detergent and other detergent formulation components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Croda International PLC
    Inventors: Alan Geoffrey Waite, Trevor Graham Blease, Sean Alexander Robins
  • Publication number: 20140109938
    Abstract: A dishwasher with a tub at least partially defining a washing chamber, a liquid spraying system, a liquid recirculation circuit, and a liquid filtering system where the liquid filtering system includes a rotating filter and where a granular agent contacts the rotating filter to clean the filter. Methods of cleaning a rotating filter provided within a liquid flow by scouring the filter with a granular agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: JACQUELYN R. GEDA, ANTONY M. RAPPETTE
  • Patent number: 8702874
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are related to a method and an associated system for removing a forming or fully developed clog from a drain hose in a dishwasher. According to one embodiment, the system includes a drain pump configured to remove water from the dishwasher and a drain hose in fluid communication with the drain pump. The system further includes a control device in operable communication with the drain pump and configured to execute a drain routine in response to detecting a clog in the drain hose, wherein the drain routine comprises repeatedly activating and deactivating the drain pump to facilitate removal of the clog.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark D. Montgomery, Virgil J. Francisco, Christopher B. Lambert, John DeFilippi
  • Publication number: 20140102485
    Abstract: A dishwashing system for cleaning soiled kitchenware, dishware and utensils is provided. The dishwashing system uses a combination of compressed air and blasting media to thoroughly remove grease and loose as well as hardened food particles from soiled surfaces, without hand tool scrubbing, manual rinsing, or use of soap, detergent, surfactants or other chemicals, whether in pre-soaking or cleaning. This heavy-duty dishwashing system accomplishes this thorough cleaning using no or a minuscule quantity of water. The overall energy requirements are low compared to existing systems due to elimination of water, reduction of the heating load and possible use of the heat of incineration. The dishwashing system may include a system for reclaiming used blasting media by separation from food residues. The dishwashing system is most appropriate for locations where freshwater is unavailable or costly, such as arid zones and aboard ships, and where disposal of gray water is impermissible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicants: TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, INC., KING ABDULAZIZ UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: Nablia Bahjat
  • Patent number: 8696828
    Abstract: A water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular a domestic dishwasher, the water-conducting domestic appliance including a washing compartment for receiving items therein that are to be subjected to a washing cycle by the water-conducting domestic appliance; a detergent dosing system, the detergent dosing system having a detergent dispenser with a receiving compartment, the receiving area for receiving at least one cartridge that is configured to hold at least one detergent; and a cartridge having separate chambers for storing at least two detergents, each chamber having a storage capacity for storing detergent that is greater than a quantity of detergent required for one washing cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Egbert Classen, Helmut Jerg
  • Patent number: 8696824
    Abstract: A dishwasher, a door assembly for the dishwasher and a method of drying the dishware in the dishwasher are provided. The dishwasher may include a sensor configured to measure the turbidity of the water in the dishwasher which is used to determine a wash load size. A control unit of the dishwasher may determine and control cycle times, temperatures, heating elements and a blower of the dishwasher based on the wash load size. The dishwasher may include a humidity level determination that may also be used by the control unit to control the operations of the dishwasher. The door assembly may include a duct configured to receive moisture-laden air creating during the drying cycle and encourage the condensation of the water from the air such that the water may be redirected back to the tub portion of the dishwasher and the dry air may be directed out of the dishwasher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ashwin Jadhav, Jeffrey E. Nelson, Dennis A. Poyner, Van P. Beck
  • Patent number: 8691021
    Abstract: A water-bearing household appliance to which fluid can be supplied during at least one filling step includes at least one drain pump for conveying fluid out of the water-bearing household appliance; and an overfill protection facility to prevent an excessive water level in the water-bearing household appliance. The overfill protection facility is configured to capture at least one operating parameter of the drain pump and after the filling step, in the presence of a malfunction of the drain pump that can be derived from the at least one operating parameter, to prevent execution of a further filling step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Hesterberg, Karlheinz Rehm, Michael Georg Rosenbauer
  • Patent number: 8685171
    Abstract: A method of cleaning dishware with a liquid detergent composition having a hydrophobic emollient and a crystalline structurant to provide improved hand skin care benefits and superior grease cleaning and/or suds mileage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Eva Maria Perez-Prat Vinuesa, Anna Asmanidou, Karl Shiqing Wei, Mark Francois Theophile Evers, Robby Renilde François Keuleers, Jean-Luc Philippe Bettiol
  • Patent number: 8685170
    Abstract: A produce washer and method of washing produce or other items in a continuous motion washing machine is provided. The produce washer includes a basket, or other collector, that is positioned within a portion of the fluid flow path and sized and shaped to intercept items from a the fluid flow path while at the same time allowing the fluid to continue to flow through a perforated wall in the collector generally in the same circulatory flow path created by the washing machine. The method includes placing items within the wash tank; creating a fluid flow within the wash tank; intercepting one or more of the items from the fluid flow path by the collector; and allowing the fluid to continue flow through the perforated wall in the collector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Unified Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: John Cantrell, Mark Churchill
  • Publication number: 20140083465
    Abstract: A cleaning composition comprising a liquid salt, and a hydrogen bond donor for the liquid salt, and a surfactant. Also a method of cleaning using the cleaning composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY
    Inventors: Robert D'Ambrogio, Deborah A. Peru, Karen Wisniewaki
  • Patent number: 8679257
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for adding a multi-component solid detergent additive during a program sequence of a water leading household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, wherein the household appliance comprises a compartment for storing the detergent additive. According to the invention, the liquid supply to the detergent additive stored in the compartment is effected in dependency of the program sequence, wherein in particular the liquid supply to the compartment is repeated at different times. Similarly a household appliance is provided with a device for adding a multi-component detergent additive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignees: Electrolux Home Products Corporation N.V., ELBI International S.p.A.
    Inventors: Winfried Steiner, Rolf Stahlmann, Christian Daume, Stefan Füglein, Klaus-Martin Forst, Guiseppe Marone, Paolo DaPont
  • Publication number: 20140076363
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a shiftable rack provided with a washing agent dispersal system including a housing into which washing fluid is delivered. When the rack is shifted to a retracted position within a tub of the dishwasher, a tube feed system is employed to selectively distribute washing fluid from a pump assembly to each of multiple spray arms, the housing of the washing agent dispersal system and an auxiliary spray unit carried by the upper rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: ROGER J. BERTSCH, DAVID HC CHEN
  • Publication number: 20140076364
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for cleaning tableware using temperatures lower than 80° C. whilst maintaining high hygienic standards by using two alkaline and one acidic cleaning step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Christoph Maul, Werner Strothoff, Gerold Carlhoff, Sven Klose, Patrick Schmidt-Dobrowolny, Dirk Kullwitz
  • Publication number: 20140075682
    Abstract: A home appliance (2), in particular dishwasher or laundry treatment apparatus, further in particular a laundry treatment apparatus capable of washing and/or drying, includes a liquid supply channel (24) and/or a liquid reservoir (22) and a droplet spraying device (26). The droplet spraying device includes a membrane (36) arranged in fluid connection with the liquid supply channel (24) and/or the liquid reservoir (22). The membrane (36) has a plurality of openings (38), and at least one actuator (40) is provided for actuating the membrane (36).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS CORPORATION N.V.
    Inventors: Mario Filippetti, Andrea Zattin
  • Publication number: 20140069465
    Abstract: A method of operating a dishwasher having a treating chamber for washing dishes includes dispensing a detergent, supplying liquid to mix with the detergent to form a wash liquid, storing a first portion of the wash liquid in a reuse tank and using a second portion of the wash liquid in the treating chamber, supplying the first portion of the wash liquid from the reuse tank to the treating chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: SCOTT D. SLABBEKOORN, ELLIOTT V. STOWE, BARRY E. TULLER, CHAD T. VANDERROEST
  • Patent number: 8669223
    Abstract: A stability enhancement agent for use in a solid detergent and solid detergent compositions is described. Stability enhancement is provided by a hydratable salt, water and a polyepoxysuccinic acid or polyepoxysuccinic acid metal salt binding agent forming a dimensionally stable composition. Preferred polyepoxysuccinic acid or polyepoxysuccinic acid metal salts have a molecular weight of between about 400 and about 1,500 g/mol. The stability enhancement composition for use in a solid detergent and solid detergent compositions are preferably biodegradable and substantially free of phosphorus and NTA.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Carter M. Silvernail, Kerrie Walters