Dishwashing Machine Patents (Class 134/57D)
  • Patent number: 5330580
    Abstract: A machine, such as a dishwasher or clothes washer, incorporates a device for measuring machine load that includes a sensor for detecting power consumption surges. The machine may further include a frame for containing articles, a power utilization system for circulating or distributing a liquid in the frame, and a controller, responsive to the device, for controlling the amount of liquid provided to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1994
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Walter Whipple, III, David A. Schneider, Gregory O. Miller, Mark E. Dausch, Vivek V. Badami
  • Patent number: 5313964
    Abstract: A fluid-handling machine, such as a dishwasher or clothes washer, incorporates a device for measuring liquid load that includes a sensor for detecting liquid pressure surges. The machine may further include a frame for containing articles, a system for circulating or distributing a liquid in the frame, and a controller, responsive to the device, for controlling the amount of liquid provided to the frame so that enough liquid is provided to ensure that there is a sufficient amount for a wash cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Mark E. Dausch, Vivek V. Badami, Walter Whipple, III
  • Patent number: 5309939
    Abstract: A water-conducting household appliance includes a liquid container having a static content level, a fill control device, a cycle control unit, an inflow valve to be opened by the cycle control unit and closed by at least one of the fill control device and the cycle control unit, an evacuation pump, a switch having a switching position in which the switch turns on the evacuation pump and selectably closes the inflow valve, and a chamber hydraulically communicating with the liquid container and having an opening for the entry of water. A safety device for the appliance includes a safety level switch device having a float disposed in the chamber, the float having a switching position in which the float acts upon the switch, and the float having a position of repose in which the float is kept at a distance above the static content level and in which the float acts upon the switch to switch off the evacuation pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: Bosch-Siemens Hausgerate GmbH
    Inventors: Ernst Stickel, Rudiger Eiermann, Helmut Jerg
  • Patent number: 5291626
    Abstract: A machine for cleansing articles, such as a dishwasher, incorporates a device for measuring the turbidity of an at least partially transparent liquid. The device includes a sensor for detecting scattered electromagnetic radiation, regardless of polarization, and a sensor for detecting transmitted electromagnetic radiation, regardless of polarization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Barbara D. Molnar, Donald T. McGrath, Mark E. Dausch, Vivek V. Badami, Walter Whipple, III
  • Patent number: 5287866
    Abstract: In a dishwashing system, a dishwashing machine (10) is provided to wash a rack holding thereon tableware in a washing chamber, a wagon (W) is provided to have therein plural stages of horizontal storage shelves in an up-and-down direction, and an elevator (E) is disposed between the wagon and the dishwashing machine. On the elevator (E), a drive control device is provided to move a ramp (56) of the elevator by a driving mechanism (60) toward a position facing to one of shelves of the wagon after the rack has been placed at a reference position of the ramp (56) by way of timing belts (57i) (57l), to drive the timing belts by a timing belt mechanism (57) so as to store the rack onto the shelf, to stop the timing belt mechanism upon completing storage of the rack and to drive the driving mechanism till the ramp reaches the reference position. These operations are repeated by the drive control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Assignee: Hoshizaki Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiroshi Torimitsu, Chiyoshi Toya, Tomio Suyama, Sadayuki Hirate, Tomoko Yamamura
  • Patent number: 5282901
    Abstract: A dispensing apparatus and method for dispensing detergent in a warewash machine. The rinse water spray system or an alternate water source is monitored to determine if water is being supplied to the warewash machine. Once water is sensed being supplied to the machine, the apparatus determines whether the water is being supplied for a rinse cycle or a fill cycle. The amount of detergent dispensed is controlled based upon the determination of whether the water is being supplied in a rinse cycle or a fill cycle. If the apparatus determines that the water is being supplied for a rinse cycle, a make-up amount of detergent is dispensed upon completion of the rinse cycle. If the apparatus determines that the water is being supplied for a fill cycle, the washtank is precharged with the desired concentration of detergent during the fill cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 1, 1994
    Assignee: Kay Chemical Company
    Inventor: Roger A. Reinhard
  • Patent number: 5267580
    Abstract: A conveyor dishwashing machine in which racks of dishes are conveyed from a loading surface through a hood which presents washing and rinsing zones and onto a discharge surface. In the washing zone, wash spray is applied to the dishes from a spray system which is easily removed for cleaning and easily replaced in the proper position. In the rinsing zone, a rinse curtain applies an initial rinse and creates a barrier against the wash spray. A final rinse of clean city water is applied subsequent to the rinse curtain. Automatic controls operate the machine with a minimum of human intervention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1993
    Assignee: TCA, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell L. Payzant
  • Patent number: 5257171
    Abstract: An electric control apparatus for a dishwashing machine for controlling the supply and discharge of hot water into and from a wash water storage tank in the machine prior to washing operation. The electric control apparatus is designed to supply hot water into the wash tank from a supply source of hot water in response to operation of a power source switch and maintain the supply of hot water into the wash tank during first and second predetermined times, to discharge the hot water from the wash tank upon lapse of the first predetermined time and maintain the discharge of hot water during the second predetermined time, to interrupt the supply and discharge of hot water into and from upon lapse of the second predetermined time and maintain the interruption of the supply and discharge of hot water during a third predetermined time, and to discharge the hot water from the wash tank upon lapse of the third predetermined time and maintain the discharge of hot water during a fourth predetermined time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Assignee: Hoshizaki Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yasuo Hara
  • Patent number: 5193562
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a sink mounted dishwasher having a closure mechanism (41, 140) in the drain (15) of the sink (2). An hydraulic control system (FIG. 6) for such a dishwasher is also disclosed together with an hydraulically operated liquid detergent dispenser (47, FIG. 7). The preferred form of hydraulic fluid is liquid rinse aid. Two forms of spray arm (28, 128) are also disclosed, each with a structure (20) which enables the spray arm to be removably and rotatably mounted within the sink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Assignee: McIlwraith-Davey Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Ralph A. Rigby, Bryan H. Marshall, Peter K. Le Leivre, Stuart A. Morley
  • Patent number: 5185379
    Abstract: A method is provided for regenerating a mass of active resin contained in a water softening device connected in the water filling circuit of a washing machine. The water softener device has an internal volume which is equal to the sum of the volume of the mass of resin plus a free volume, and is selectively supplied with both fresh water and brine through respective valves controlled by a program control device. The water softening device is supplied with a volume of brine during a first period of time, and is subsequently supplied with a complementary volume of water during a second period of time. The sum of the volume of brine, which is selected according to the hardness of the supply water, and the complementary volume of water is equal to the free volume of the water softening device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Assignee: Zanussi Elettrodomestici S.p.A.
    Inventors: Claudio Milocco, Rosa Sist
  • Patent number: 5172572
    Abstract: An automatic washing apparatus for washing dirty things in a washing tank to which washing liquid is supplied, the automatic washing apparatus comprising: a light emitting element for emitting light to the washing liquid which has passed through the washing tank; a first light receiving element for receiving a linear light beam which travels through the washing liquid along the optical axis of the light emitting element; and a second light receiving element for receiving scattered light which travels through the washing liquid in directions deviated from the optical axis of the light emitting element, wherein washing conditions are controlled in accordance with the quantity of light received by the first light receiving element and the quantity of light received by the second light receiving element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shuzo Ono
  • Patent number: 5167248
    Abstract: A relief valve is provided in a dishwasher for relieving an overpressure condition in the washing chamber of the dishwasher. The relief valve includes a cap portion fitting over a chimney opening and a base portion slidably extending into the chimney. The cap portion has a plurality of small perforations allowing for passage of overpressure air flow while precluding the passage of suds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1992
    Assignee: Maytag Corporation
    Inventor: Barry E. Tuller
  • Patent number: 5151884
    Abstract: A control system for an appliance indicator light includes a timer which times the amount of time the appliance door is open after completion of the operational cycle of the appliance. If the door is opened for more than a predetermined period of time, the indicator light will be deactuated, but if the door is opened for less than the predetermined period of time and then reclosed, the indicator light will be left in its on condition. The timer may be a series of cams attached to a motor, a bi-metal switch located adjacent the indicator light, or a microprocessor connected to and driving the indicator light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1992
    Assignee: Maytag Corporation
    Inventors: Scott E. Griffith, Barry E. Tuller, Charles L. Jackson
  • Patent number: 5137694
    Abstract: A cleaning system and dispenser are disclosed which feature a reservoir for retaining a liquid detergent solution; a chamber for retaining a mass of solid, dissolvable detergent; a measurement device for measuring the concentration of detergent in the liquid detergent solution; and a flow control device for circulating the liquid detergent solution from the reservoir into contact with the solid detergent so as to dissolve a portion of the solid detergent and increase the concentration of detergent in the liquid detergent solution. The circulation of the liquid detergent solution is in response to a signal from the concentration measuring device that the concentration of detergent in the liquid detergent solution has fallen below a predetermined minimum. The dispenser also includes a measurement device for measuring the volume of solution in the reservoir and for adding fresh water to the reservoir when the volume of solution is below a predetermined minimum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Copeland, Henry A. Snyder, Sherwood A. Bergseid, Thomas H. Indieke
  • Patent number: 5137041
    Abstract: A glass washer has a cabinet enclosing a water reservoir having a drain, a water inlet, a spray box, a motor driven rotary tray above the spray box, and a pump for causing water flow through the spray box to spray the contents of the tray. A control senses incoming water temperature and holds the drain open until the water temperature reaches a predetermined level and then closes the drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Assignee: Glastender, Inc.
    Inventor: Jon D. Hall
  • Patent number: 5131419
    Abstract: A multi-function warewashing machine which automatically functions in a plurality of operating modes, including a conventional dishwashing mode and specialized washing modes for flatware and pots and pans, the operating mode being indicated by ware racks each of which bears an indicator in the form of an anomaly or signalling device which uniquely predetermines the optimum spray patterns and timing cycles for a particular type of ware contained in the rack, the warewashing machine including a sensor for detecting the indicator and a control circuit which responds to the sensor to actuate various controllable devices in combination to produce specific spray patterns and wash and rinse cycle times which are best suited for cleansing a particular ware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Inventor: Donald E. Roberts
  • Patent number: 5097855
    Abstract: A dishwasher has a container with baskets for the articles to be washed, a flushing system with a scavenging pump, spray arms, a strainer system with a fine strainer and a coarse strainer, and a discharge pump. The operation of the dishwasher is controlled by a control system which, after a prewashing controls partial drainage of the water to such an extent that the water level is lower than the upper surface of the fine strainer. With this reduced water level, the fine strainer is cleaned by running the residual amount of water through the flushing system during a predetermined time interval. Dirt flushed away from the strainer surface is collected in the central part of the strainer system and is discharged after completion of the flushing together with the residual water amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1992
    Assignee: ABB Cylinda AB
    Inventors: Christer Martinsson, Barbro Nordqvist
  • Patent number: 5056542
    Abstract: A dispensing apparatus and method for dispensing detergent in a warewash machine. The rinse water spray systm or an alternate water source is monitored to determine if water is being supplied to the warewash machine. Once water is sensed being supplied to the machine, the apparatus determines whether the water is being supplied for a rinse cycle or a fill cycle. The amount of detergent dispensed is controlled based upon the determination of whether the water is being supplied in a rinse cycle or a fill cycle. If the apparatus determines that the water is being supplied for a rinse cycle, a make-up amount of detergent is dispensed upon completion of the rinse cycle. If the apparatus determines that the water is being supplied for a fill cycle, the washtank is pre-charged with the desired concentration of detergent during the fill cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Assignee: Kay Chemical Company
    Inventor: Roger A. Reinhard
  • Patent number: 5038807
    Abstract: A system for monitoring the performance of a warewashing machine generates proactive alarms that audible and/or visibly instruct operators to take corrective action of temperature, rinse pressure, loading, or other machine deficiencies occur. A data input feature enables the operator to add production data to the report for the calculation of machine efficiency. A water consumption measurement device provides realistic utility, water and sewage costs calculations for the warewashing machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Ecolab, Inc.
    Inventors: Clyde A. Bailey, Eric L. Padelford, Daniel F. Brady, Eduardo S. Koehler
  • Patent number: 5033659
    Abstract: Dishwasher dispensing structure consisting of a reservoir for storing a supply of additive and having an outlet opening to the wash chamber, a cover movably mounted relative to the reservoir between a) a closed position wherein the cover prevents escape of additive from the reservoir outlet into the wash chamber and b) an open position permitting the reservoir outlet to be in communication with the wash chamber, a trigger mounted movably to the dishwasher between a cover block position and a cover release position, with structure on the trigger for maintaining the cover in the closed position with the trigger in its blocked position and releasing the cover to its open position with the trigger in its cover release position, a cover release member, structure driven by the timer mechanism for moving the cover release member through a first prescribed path in response to operation of the timer mechanism as the dishwasing apparatus is cycled and moving the cover release member in a first direction through a porti
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Larry D. Marks, Richard C. Stiles, William F. Bartloff
  • Patent number: 5031649
    Abstract: A dishwashing apparatus having a wash chamber, a timer, an additive reservoir and a dispenser for selectively closing and opening the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1991
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Larry D. Marks, Richard C. Stiles, Ray W. Spiegel
  • Patent number: 5018550
    Abstract: A dishwasher is provided with an improved apparatus for protecting the tub from being overfilled in the form of a float having a float stem that is automatically captured upon insertion through a passage in the tub bottom wall such that the float will be restrained against disengagement from the tub bottom wall. The float is vertically movable to operate a control switch for regulating the level of water within the tub. Preferably a retaining ring is carried on a stem of the float which is automatically biased through a varying diameter keyway and is subsequently moved to a captured position below the member having the keyway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventor: Mark A. Burdorff
  • Patent number: 5017852
    Abstract: An electric control apparatus for a dishwashing machine having a washing chamber, a wash pump arranged to be driven by an electric motor for pumping up wash water from a wash water storage tank in the washing chamber, and a revolving wash arm arranged within the washing chamber to be supplied with the wash water from the pump for directing jet streams of the wash water to a rack of tableware placed in the washing chamber. The electric control apparatus includes a microcomputer programmed to memorize control data defined in relation to the lapse of washing time such that the supply amount of wash water to the wash arm is intermittently increased and decreased after gradually increased up to a predetermined amount at an initial stage of washing operation and to control the rotational speed of the electric motor in accordance with the lapse of washing time based on the control data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1991
    Assignee: Hoshizaki Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Osamu Nagata, Tokihiro Kuwahara, Yukichi Suzawa, Hiroaki Kamino, Tomio Suyama, Tomoyoshi Konno
  • Patent number: 5010920
    Abstract: A device for a dishwasher comprising a tub with a bottom (10) which is provided with a sump (11) for collecting liquid circulating in the tub. When the machine is emptied, the liquid is distributed from the sump to the inlet side of a sewage pump (20) from which the liquid is discharged to a sewer or the like. In order to make the overall height of the machine small, to limit the quantity of watr remaining in the sump, and to considerably decrease the working time of the sewage pump necessary to achieve this small quantity, the bottom surface of the sump (11) is placed below or on the same level as the pump housing (23), and the inlet (21) of the pump communicates with the sump via a pipe (17) which has a restriction (26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1991
    Assignee: Aktiebolaget Electrolux
    Inventors: Anders K. H. Tolf, Keijo A. Stridh
  • Patent number: 5005740
    Abstract: Dishwasher dispensing structure consisting of a reservoir for storing a supply of additive and having an outlet, a cover mounted for movement relative to the reservoir between (a) a closed position and (b) an open position, a trigger mounted movably between a cover block position and a cover release position for selectively maintaining the cover in its closed position and releasing the cover to its open position, a cover release member movable by the timer mechanism through a first prescribed path in response to operation of the timer mechanism in a first direction through a portion of the path during one portion of the operating cycle and to retrace the path portion in a second, opposite direction during another portion of the cycle, trigger moving structure movable in a third path as the cover release member moves through the one portion of the cycle and in a fourth path that substantially retraces the third path as the cover release member moves in the another portion of the cycle, and cooperating structur
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1991
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Larry D. Marks, Richard C. Stiles, William F. Bartloff
  • Patent number: 5006767
    Abstract: In a dishwashing machine having a washing chamber, an electrically operated wash pump for pumping out wash water from a wash tank in the washing chamber, an electrically operated rinse pump for pumping out heated water from a gas booster heater, and wash and rinse arms arranged within the washing chamber to be supplied with the wash and heated water from the wash and rinse pumps for directing jet streams of the wash and heated water to tableware racked in the washing chamber respectively, an electric control apparatus is arranged to mix cold water from a source of cold water into the heated water to form mixing water and to control the rinse pump such that the rinse arm directs jet stream of the mixing water to the racked tableware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1991
    Assignee: Hoshizaki Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Fumio Maruyama, Tomio Suyama, Hiroaki Kamino, Koji Suyama, Tokihiro Kuwahara, Osamu Nagata
  • Patent number: 4932227
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning fabrics includes a washing machine having a housing, a wash chamber, hot and cold water inlet conduits in the housing leading to the chamber, and at least one laundry chemical inlet conduit. Water flow sensing means are placed in the hot and cold water lines, respectively, located outside of the housing. The flow of water generates a signal in the sensing means which then sends an electronic impulse to a control head having a program that stores and selectively activates a plurality of pumps. These pumps deliver laundry chemicals from supply containers into the wash chamber of the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1990
    Assignee: Lever Brothers Company
    Inventor: James T. Hogrefe
  • Patent number: 4872466
    Abstract: A commercial warewasher is disclosed, in which racks of soiled ware, such as dishes, are consecutively washed through a machine cycle which includes recirculating wash water over the ware followed by a fresh water spray rinse. A portion of the wash water is drained and a second portion is intentionally retained in the machine during the rinse period after each rack of dishes is washed. The retained portion is thereby combined with the fresh rinse water to provide a volume of water sufficient for pumped wash recirculation for the next rack without cavitation, while enabling usage of a minimum quantity of rinse water required to provide effective rinsing. Reduced water consumption, reduced energy to heat the water and reduced chemical usage (detergents, sanitizers and rinse agents) are all possible in amounts and degrees depending upon the type and design of warewasher with which the method and apparatus is employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1989
    Assignee: Hobart Corporation
    Inventor: Tore H. Noren
  • Patent number: 4832064
    Abstract: In a glass washing machine having a glass carrier rotatable on an upright axis, half of the carrier is always in an access zone where glasses can be loaded onto the carrier and removed from it, the other half in a cleansing zone where detergent solution is discharged from a first set of spray nozzles and germicidal rinsing solution is discharged from a second set of nozzles. Upon actuation of a pushbutton switch, the carrier rotates through 180.degree., always in the same direction, then stops until the switch is again actuatd. Liquids are discharged from all nozzles while the carrier rotates. Detergent solution is recirculated, but fresh detergent solution is introduced during a predetermined portion of each period of carrier rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1989
    Assignee: Perlick Corporation
    Inventor: James E. Nezworski
  • Patent number: 4820934
    Abstract: A control circuit for dispensing detergent and a wetting agent in a dishwasher is provided in which a single triac can be utilized to selectively energize either the detergent dispenser operator or the wetting agent dispenser operator by connecting the two operators, each in series with an oppositely oriented diode, in parallel, and such connection in series with the triac, and then biasing the triac into low impedance at the beginning of either positive or negative half line cycle depending on the operator selected to be energized. If an operator is of low resistance, it is connected in series with the heater which then acts as a current limiter, and if the operator is of high impedance, it is connected in parallel with the heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1989
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Roque Denis Marcade, Daniel S. Query
  • Patent number: 4805647
    Abstract: According to the invention, structure is provided for interconnecting a timer mechanism and dispensing structure associated with a dishwashing apparatus. The timer mechanism has a cam with an associated follower with a free end that is engageable with a portion of an actuating member. In the operating cycle, motion is transmitted from the follower through the actuating member. In a given cycle, the actuating member and follower move in a prescribed path in one direction and retrace the path in a direction opposite to the one direction. Structure is provided to block the actuating member at its extreme position of travel in the one direction and to progressively adjustably interconnect the follower and actuating member as they are moved relative to each other. By so doing, the cam follower can be moved through its path by a manual control knob and engaged with the actuating member, that is blocked at its extreme position of travel in the one direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1989
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventor: Larry D. Marks
  • Patent number: 4765351
    Abstract: An improved dishwasher and hot water heater system is disclosed in which the dishwasher comprises means for automatically causing the water temperature in the hot water heater storage tank to be raised to a temperature suitable for sterilization of dishes by rinsing upon actuation of the dishwasher. No operator input is required, yet water is not maintained at the rinse temperature when the dishwasher is not being used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1985
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1988
    Inventor: Kenneth B. Clary
  • Patent number: 4754770
    Abstract: This invention relates to a dishwasher equipped with a single, unidirectional electric motor driving two impellers coaxial to a pump which sends water to a bypass valve containing inlets and outlets. The opening and closing of inlets and outlets is controlled by an actuator thermally activated by a heater/controller. Power is supplied to the controller through leads connected to a timer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1988
    Assignee: eltek S.p.A.
    Inventor: Paolo Fornasari
  • Patent number: 4732171
    Abstract: A dishwashing machine includes at least one additive distributor for dispensing additive into a wash tub, a first electrically controlled actuator for operating the distributor, a water softener for softening water supplied to the wash tub, a regeneration circuit for regenerating the water softener, a second electrically controlled actuator for operating the regenerating circuit, and a programmer for controlling the operation of the first and second actuators. The first and second actuators are electrically connected in parallel to each other. A single switch is controlled by the programmer for connecting the parallelly connected first and second actuators to a power source for at least one first time period and at least one second time period longer than the first time period. The first and second actuators have response times respectively shorter and longer than the first time period, and the response time of the second actuator is less than the second time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1988
    Assignee: Industrie Zanussi S.p.A.
    Inventor: Claudio Milocco
  • Patent number: 4689089
    Abstract: A dishwashing machine and a method for washing ware therewith are disclosed. The machine includes a wash chamber, a tank for holding a cleansing liquid, a spray system including a selectively operable pump for spraying ware to be cleaned with liquid from the tank, and a heater for heating the liquid within the tank. The heater is regulated to maintain the liquid substantially at a first predetermined temperature whenever the pump is operating, and to maintain the liquid substantially at a second predetermined temperature greater than the first temperature whenever the pump is not operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1987
    Assignee: Hobart Corporation
    Inventors: Mark E. Eberhardt, Jr., Francis J. Caldwell
  • Patent number: 4641671
    Abstract: An automatic dishwasher which comprises an enclosure for accommodating articles to be washed, a washing solution tank arranged below the enclosure, a hot water storage tank for containing a predetermined amount of hot water for rinsing use, a plurality of nozzles for spraying a liquid medium towards the articles in the enclosure, a motor-driven pump, a first piping connecting a discharge port of the pump with the nozzles, a second piping connecting both of the solution and storage tanks with a suction port of the pump, and a valve assembly disposed on the second piping and operable to close a first passage between the suction port and the storage tank and to open a second passage between the suction port and the solution tank during the washing operation in which the articles are washed, and to open and close the first and second passages, respectively, during the rinsing operation in which the articles are rinsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1987
    Assignee: Daikin Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Munehiro Nogi, Ryutaro Ohashi, Koichiro Miyazaki, Takashi Tanaka, Koichiro Tamakoshi, Yoshiziro Tamano, Syotaro Wakita, Toshimitsu Suzuki
  • Patent number: 4615744
    Abstract: A machine is provided for rinsing eating utensils and includes a rinse station wherein the utensils are finally rinsed to eliminate spotting thereon. The water used in the final rinse of the utensils is of high quality and contains less than 275 ppm of total dissolved solids. The high quality rinse water is collected in a tank having a heating element therein and pumped to the rinse station after being heated. After each rinse cycle, the water drains back into the tank where it is reheated and recirculated to rinse each additional group of utensils subsequently introduced into the second station until the level of total dissolved solids in the water exceeds 275 ppm.The method of rinsing eating utensils comprises moving the utensils through a rinse station where they are finally rinsed with a heated quantity of high quality water having less than 275 ppm of total dissolved solids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1986
    Inventor: James L. Murtha
  • Patent number: 4592785
    Abstract: A process for automated and improved proteinaceous soil removal in a wash water solution wherein alkali is first added to the wash water solution to bring the pH thereof to slightly below a selected target pH value in the range of 10 to 11 that will be effective to react with and solubilize the proteinaceous soil. To that wash water solution 5 to 50 milligrams of hypohalous halogen per liter of wash water solution and sufficient alkali is added to raise the pH of the wash water solution to the target pH value. The wash water solution is monitored to detect a drop in pH of at least 0.02 pH units occurring after the addition of the hypohalous halogen. If there is no such drop in pH then the process is terminated. If there is at least a 0.02 pH units drop in pH then an incremental amount of hypohalous halogen and sufficient alkali are added to the solution to again raise the pH of the water solution to the target pH. This cycle continues until there is less then 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1986
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Raymond L. Reinert, Charles D. Kaufman
  • Patent number: 4561904
    Abstract: A control system and method of controlling a conveyor-type dishwasher is disclosed, with the dishwasher including a plurality of sequentially arranged work stations, each of the stations performing an operation on ware located therein such as washing, rinsing, drying and the like. A conveyor carries the ware into the dishwasher, past each of the stations, and out of the dishwasher. A sensor mounted at a reference point adjacent the conveyor near the entrance for ware to the dishwasher senses the presence of ware items on the conveyor as the items are carried past the reference point. Positional advance of the conveyor is monitored to define a current conveyor position and track movement of the items through the dishwasher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1985
    Assignee: Hobart Corporation
    Inventor: Mark E. Eberhardt, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4559959
    Abstract: A multiple-fill dishwasher and method includes a wash chamber having a sump at the bottom thereof, a remotely controlled inlet valve for supplying cleansing liquid into the sump, a drain for draining liquid and entrained soil from the sump, and a recirculating pump having a spraying system receiving the output thereof for spraying liquid onto soiled ware contained within the chamber. A control circuit controls the valve, drain means, and pump to perform a selected one of a plurality of different cleansing cycles which are automatically selected according to the extent of soil on the ware. An operator-actuated switch for commencing operating of the control circuit, and a chamber for collecting soil particles in a concentrated fashion during liquid recirculation, are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1985
    Assignee: Hobart Corporation
    Inventor: Theodore F. Meyers
  • Patent number: 4509543
    Abstract: A dishwasher monitor/controller for monitoring the operation of a dishwasher and providing human-intelligible speech messages upon the detection of predefined fault conditions. The operation of the dishwasher is periodically monitored using temperature measurements, water conductivity measurements, detection of the absence of drying agent, and timers to measure how long various physical conditions continue between periodic maintenance procedures. The dishwasher faults detected include directly tested faults and indirectly (elapsed-time dependent) tested faults. The direct tests for faults are for low rinse water temperature, low wash water temperature, and absence of drying agent. The indirect tests are for dirty wash water, absence of detergent, and the need to inspect the interior of the washer for dirt and calcium carbonate scale build-up. Furthermore, there is provided a switch activated facility for orally explaining, step-by-step, how to properly start-up the dishwasher and how to shut it down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1985
    Assignee: Beta Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: James W. Livingston, James G. Schontzler
  • Patent number: 4488666
    Abstract: Motor controlled dispenser apparatus for a washing appliance includes a first dispenser for storing and dispensing a first treating agent having a dispensing member movable between a closed position in which the interior of the dispenser is sealed and an open position in which the interior of the dispenser is exposed to enable the dispensing of a first treating agent; a second dispenser for storing and dispensing a second treating agent; a dispenser actuating member movable between a rest position, a first dispensing position and a second dispensing position; and a gear assembly coupling the dispenser actuating member to a motor-driven shaft, for controlling the rate of movement of the dispenser actuating member in accordance with the rate of rotation of the shaft. The dispensing member is coupled to the dispenser actuating member for movement therewith. The rate of movement of the dispensing member from its closed to its open position being determined by the rate of rotation of the motor-driven shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1981
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1984
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: LeRoy J. Herbst, John L. Preher
  • Patent number: 4481086
    Abstract: A dish washing machine includes a wash tank for receipt of dishes to be washed and a hydraulic circuit for receiving water from a water supply source and for supplying water to the wash tank. An electrochemical cell for generating chlorine gas by the electrolysis of a brine solution is connected to the hydraulic circuit. A salt container is connected to the hydraulic circuit by at least one valve and forms brine to be supplied to the electrochemical cell. At least one chlorine gas supply conduit connects the electrochemical cell to the wash tank to thereby supply chlorine gas from the electrochemical cell to the interior of the wash tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1982
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1984
    Assignee: Industrie Zanussi S.p.A.
    Inventors: Giuseppe Bianchi, Claudio Milocco
  • Patent number: 4467423
    Abstract: A control system for a washing machine having a plurality of selectable functions, with each function including a plurality of predetermined operational steps, providing a control element for controlling the performance of each operational step, an input to the control element for selecting one of the functions, circuitry for interfacing the control element with the apparatus for allowing direct control of the operational steps by the control element, and an instruction program located within the control element for effecting the control function of the control element, the instruction program including a first instruction group for distinguishing a selected function from the other selectable functions, a second instruction group for registering the function distinguished by the first instruction group, a third instruction group for initiating performance of the predetermined operational steps of the registered function and for registering a period of performance for the initiated operational step, and a four
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 21, 1984
    Assignee: Emhart Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert L. Smith, Melvin B. Mozingo
  • Patent number: 4463582
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for supplying dry detergent concentrate to a metering device for dissolving or dispersing in water which prevents or minimizes the formation of dust, lumping, caking, and encrustation of vessel walls and supplies new detergent to the laundry plant in response to changes in electrical conductivity of the wash water from a predetermined value which indicates consumption of original detergent required in soil removal and need for replenishment thereof. The minimizing of dust and protection of the detergent from moisture is accomplished by using a flexible delivery container, the filling means and emptying means of which are sealable and which emptying means acts in cooperation with the metering apparatus section to form an integral delivery system which is generally isolated from the surrounding atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 7, 1984
    Assignee: Lang Apparatebau GmbH
    Inventors: Gunter Saalmann, Richard Haslberger
  • Patent number: 4450696
    Abstract: A control system for a washing machine having an aspirator connected to the discharge side of the inlet valve. The aspirator vacuum port provides a vacuum signal through a one-way valve to a vacuum reservoir which supplies a vacuum signal via a control valve to one or more vacuum responsive diaphragm actuators. The force output of the actuators is employed for auxiliary machine functions such as direct mechanical actuation of the drain valve or operating the recirculation pump motor start switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1984
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Keith E. Zukausky
  • Patent number: 4450863
    Abstract: An automatic dishwasher includes a water inlet line, a flow control valve assembly, a wash water introducing means for introducing wash water into a container which is adapted to receive dishes, and control means for selectively controlling the flow control valve assembly. The flow control valve assembly includes a first flow control valve which is selectively actuated by a first solenoid coil and a second flow control valve which is selectively actuated by a second solenoid coil. A first ferromagnetic member is disposed between a first end of the solenoid coils and a second ferromagnetic member is disposed between the other end of the solenoid coils. The solenoid coils are so interconnected that when an actuating potential is applied across them, they are electrically in series. The series connection of the coils allows the coils to be configured such that a significant saving in the cost of coil wire is achieved over parallel connected coils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1984
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Wade R. Brown
  • Patent number: 4418712
    Abstract: An overflow control system for use with home appliances such as washing machines, incorporating conventional stand pipe which receives the outlet conduit from the appliance, the stand pipe being provided with an attachment having a displacement, conductivity or a pressure sensor installed for sensing the height of liquids in the stand pipe. This stand pipe may be vertically connected to the sewage line outlet found in a home and the signals from the sensors may be used to shut off the power to the appliance and to excite an alarm. Connected in parallel with the sensors may be a moisture sensor deployed under the appliance which again shuts the power off whenever the machine is inadvertently filled beyond its limits or when leakage occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1981
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1983
    Inventor: Charles A. Braley
  • Patent number: RE32763
    Abstract: Solid cast detergent-containing articles are produced for use in automatic washing machines. A liquid detergent composition is cast into a mold where it is allowed to solidify. The solid cast detergent, surrounded on all but its upper surface by the mold, is used in automatic washing machines having a dispensing device designed to dispense a liquid aqueous detergent formed from the solid cast detergent using an impinging liquid spray. The liquid aqueous detergent flows out of the dispensing device generally simultaneously with its formation in the dispenser. The cast detergent composition includes an alkaline hydratable chemical and optionally further includes one or more preformed cores or plugs comprising an available chlorine source, a defoamer, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1988
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Peter J. Fernholtz, James L. Copeland, Richard C. Penttila
  • Patent number: RE32818
    Abstract: Solid cast detergent-containing articles are produced for use in automatic washing machines. A liquid detergent composition is cast into a mold where it is allowed to solidify. The solid cast detergent, surrounded on all but its upper surface by the mold, is used in automatic washing machines having a dispensing device designed to dispense a liquid aqueous detergent formed from the solid cast detergent using an impinging liquid spray. The liquid aqueous detergent flows out of the dispensing device generally simultaneously with its formation in the dispenser. The cast detergent composition includes an alkaline hydratable chemical and optionally further includes one or more preformed cores or plugs comprising an available chlorine source, a defoamer, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1989
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Peter J. Fernholz, James L. Copeland, Richard C. Penttila