Abstract: A dispensing device including a support body wherein there are provided first and second dispensers, adjacent one another, for a washing agent and a rinsing agent, respectively; and an electrically-controlled actuator device, coupled to the first dispenser such that when the door is closed a first energization of the actuator device causes the dispensing of the washing agent, and coupled to the second dispenser through a transmission mechanism predisposed to become enabled to operate after a first energization of the actuator device after the door is closed, to allow the dispensing of the rinsing agent as a consequence of at least one subsequent energization of the actuator device. The second dispenser has a main chamber adapted to contain a plurality of doses of rinsing agent and a dosing chamber having a predetermined volume. During displacement obturator between the rest position and the loading position, the main chamber remains permanently uncoupled from the discharge conduit.

Abstract: A dispensing device (1) for a door of a dishwasher, includes a support body (2) having first and second, longitudinally adjacent, dispensers (5-7; 9, 10), for a washing agent and a rinse agent, respectively; and an electrically controlled actuator device (13), having a stationary structure (15) and a mobile member (18), coupled to the first dispenser (5-7) such that when the door is closed a first energization of the actuator device (13) causes the dispensing of the washing agent, and coupled to the second dispenser (9, 10) through a transmission mechanism including an interconnecting member (30) which makes the mechanism operative after a first energization of the actuator device (13) after the door is closed, to allow dispensing of the rinse agent by a subsequent energization of the actuator device (13). The interconnecting member (30) has an inactive position in which the mechanism is inoperative when the door is opened.

Abstract: A detergent dispenser for dispensing detergent in a domestic appliance, the detergent dispenser comprising a housing, a container defined in said housing and adapted to store detergent, a movable cover adapted to close and seal the container, and at least one extension depending from the cover, said at least one extension adapted to clear detergent from a perimeter of the container as the cover moves.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cleaning system for coffee machines, comprising a cleaning device for periodically cleaning the coffee- and/or milk-carrying components using a cleaning liquid, which contains cleaning agent in the form of balls or tablets dissolved therein, wherein the cleaning device is provided with a time- and/or product-cycle-dependent controller and a metering apparatus (1) for the cleaning agent (10) that interacts with the controller. Thus, it is possible to program the cleaning process in a customized manner according to the mode of operation and to carry out the cleaning process fully automatically according to the program. The metering of the cleaning agent (10) according to the program ensures an always optimal cleaning effect together with sparing use of cleaning agents. Simple and safe handling is achieved by using ball- or tablet-shaped cleaning agents.

Abstract: A dishwasher includes a hydraulically actuated dispenser for dispensing an additive into a treating chamber of the dishwasher. The dispenser includes a storage chamber, a lid, and a hydraulic cylinder that is fluidly connected to a water source external to the dishwasher. The hydraulic cylinder opens the dispenser lid at a predetermined point in a washing operation such that the additive is released into the treating chamber.

Abstract: A method for distributing powdered and liquid chemicals. The method includes introducing water into an upper end of a measuring chamber, injecting liquid chemical through an inlet located at a lower end of the measuring chamber into a chemical chamber that is fluidly coupled to a lower end of the measuring chamber until a desired volume of the liquid chemical has been introduced, pumping the desired volume of liquid chemical and at least some of the water to a washer, inserting water and a desired dose of a powdered chemical into the upper end of the measuring chamber, and transporting the powdered chemical and at least some of the water to the washer.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are related to a detergent dispenser configured to attach to an interior surface of a dishwasher door. The detergent dispenser may comprise a reservoir configured to hold detergent, wherein a portion of the upper wall of the reservoir has been removed to reduce a cross-sectional length thereof such that water flowing down the dishwasher door is encouraged into the reservoir. The detergent dispenser may also comprise a dispenser door comprising a closed configuration and an open configuration, wherein the dispenser door is configured to cover the reservoir in the closed configuration. The detergent dispenser may be configured to encourage water flowing down the interior surface of the dishwasher door to enter the reservoir when the dispenser door is in the open or closed configuration.

Abstract: The invention relates to a dispensing system for releasing preparations in the interior of a washing machine, comprising a dispenser and a cartridge couplable to the dispenser, in which the cartridge comprises at least three chambers, which contain different flowable preparations, in which the first chamber stores at least one enzyme, selected from the group of amylases, mannanases, cellulases, lipases and/or pectate lyases and at least one surfactant and/or complexing agent, the second chamber stores at least one protease and at least one surfactant and/or complexing agent, the third chamber stores at least one scent and/or one optical brightener.

Abstract: The chemical distribution system (100) includes at least a first chamber that is fluidly coupled to a second chamber below it, which is in turn fluidly coupled to a manifold below it. In use, water and a powdered chemical are introduced into the first chamber. Liquid chemicals, however, are injected into the second chamber through multiple chemicals inlets in the second chamber. A pressure sensor fluidly coupled to the first chamber is used to accurately measure dosages of the liquid chemical. Once the accurate dosages have been determined, the powdered and/or liquid chemicals are distributed through one of multiple manifold outlets and along a single line (116(a), 116(b)) to one of multiple washing machines (102(a), 102(b)).

Abstract: Water-soluble detergents and enzymes are used for mechanically cleaning textiles or crockery. According to the invention, enzymes with a catalytic effect on typical stains are added to the washing or cleaning process, only for as long as their catalytic effect is desired. This avoids superfluous removal of the enzymes that have been used in a washing or cleaning process.

Abstract: A method for altering an initiation time of an apparatus sanitation cycle based upon a base line flow rate. The method may include determining an actual flow rate through the apparatus, comparing the actual flow rate to the base line flow rate, and delaying the initiation time of the apparatus sanitation cycle if the actual flow rate exceeds the base line flow rate.

Abstract: Water-soluble detergents and enzymes are used for mechanically cleaning textiles or crockery. According to the invention, enzymes with a catalytic effect on typical stains are added to the washing or cleaning process, only for as long as their catalytic effect is desired. This avoids superfluous removal of the enzymes that have been used in a washing or cleaning process.

Abstract: The device (1) can be used in particular for the pivotable door of a dishwasher and comprises, in a structure or body (2) a first dispenser device (5, 6) for a washing agent, and a second dispenser device (4) for rinse agent, an electrically controlled actuator device (20, 21) connected to the first dispenser device (5, 6) in such a way that when the door is closed, a first excitation of the actuator device (20, 21) causes substantially only washing agent to be dispensed, and connected to the second dispenser device (4) by means of a transmission mechanism (22, 23) which includes a pivotable interconnecting element (23). The interconnecting element (23) is able to make the mechanism (22, 23) inoperative when the door of the dishwasher is opened, and to make it operative after a first excitation of the actuator device (20, 21) after the door has been closed. One end (23a) of this interconnecting element (23) is pivoted directly onto a movable control member (18) of the second dispenser device (4).

Abstract: A fluid leak detection system includes a reservoir, a predetermined quantity of a disinfecting liquid contained within such a reservoir, and at least a pair of elongated conduits. A mechanism for automatically opening the distal end of the at least one conduit includes a leaking fluid absorbent member disposed along the distal end of each of the conduits. The fluid-dissolvable member is dissolved by the leaking fluid and absorbed by the member to permit the conduit to be unfolded and allow the disinfecting liquid to flow outwardly from the distal end of the at least one conduit. The system further includes a support frame attached to a support surface, an interface, a communications device electrically coupled to a switch, a monitoring station, and a communications link connecting the communications device to the monitoring station.

Abstract: A dispensing system responds to reading data stored on a container by determining a dose for a chemical stored in that container. Then each time that the chemical is to be fed into a cleaning machine, the dispensing system operates a flow control device to deliver the designated dose. Thus the dispensing system is automatically reconfigured when different concentrations of the chemical are supplied to the dispensing system. Various mechanisms for storing the data on and reading the data from the container are described.

Abstract: The invention concerns a device and a method of adding rinse aids to a home appliance containing liquid, especially a household dishwasher, with a main tub (1), which has a service opening (4) to put the things to be washed into the main tub (1), whereby the device includes at least one dispensing unit (6) to hold and dispense the rinse aid. The dispensing unit (6) is placed in the main tub (1), whereby at least part of the dispensing unit (6) is placed so it can move or is movable and can be pulled out of the main tub (1), at least partly, in the direction of the service opening (4).

Abstract: The present invention refers to a refill container unit for an automatic dosing device. The purpose of the automatic dosing device is to control the dosing of stored material kept inside the container unit. The object of the container unit according to the invention is to achieve an agitating and transporting, cleanable and switchable storing arrangement for the automatic dosing unit. The refill container unit therefore comprises an agitating part (14) enclosed by a receptacle (1). The agitating part (14) agitates and feeds the material. Shaped as a pot containing the material, the agitating part (14) can also be lifted out of the receptacle (1) and cleaned or replaced by another pot. As an alternative the whole refill container unit can be replaced.

Abstract: A washing machine having a detergent supply device which is easily installed in a cabinet of the washing machine, and is not exposed to the outside of the cabinet. The detergent supply device includes a detergent container and a handle, and is seated in a reception chamber defined at an upper portion of the cabinet. Locking slots are formed on side mounting parts of the handle, and locking projections are provided on opposite sidewalls of the reception chamber, so as to have the locking projections be inserted into the locking slots where the handle is downwardly rotated. A cover is hinged to an upper portion of the reception chamber so as not to expose the detergent supply device to the outside. At least one hook is provided on a front end of the cover, and at least one hook hole is formed on a front portion of the reception chamber to engage with the hook, so as to have the cover openably cover the upper portion of the reception chamber.

Abstract: In a dishwasher having a washing chamber capable of accommodating upper and lower racks, a detergent dispensing assembly includes a housing defining a compartment for receiving detergent. A lid is pivotally connected to the housing for selectively pivoting between closed and dispensing positions. A shield, which is spaced away from the lid, extends in front of the lid to ensure that an object within the washing chamber does not prevent the lid from freely moving between the closed and dispensing positions during a wash cycle.

Abstract: A metering and dispensing closure for a container wherein two rotatable disks rotate in conjunction with a stationary cap member to afford accurate measuring of a powder material and dispensing of it. The disks and the container cap afford a consistent measuring of the powder material, as well as provide a variety of drive members which can be utilized with the dispensing closure.

Abstract: A system for the operation of a number of commercial washing machines and automatically feeding liquid chemicals to the washing machines. The system has chemical reservoir pods with a pressure sensor and an output valve on each. The chemical pods are supplied with liquid chemical by refill pumps. The quantity of chemical in a chemical pod, and the quantity of chemical dispensed from each chemical pod is calculated from information received by a controller from the pressure sensor to determine when to open and close the valve. A further pressure sensor is provided in the supply pipe to each washing machine to verify and measure flow quantity of water and chemical to the machine.

Abstract: A dispenser is provided which includes a body including a trough, and a cover attached to the body and including a flow path extending into the trough.

Abstract: A dispenser is provided which includes a body including a trough, and a cover attached to the body and including a flow path extending into the trough.

Abstract: The invention in the simplest form is a dispenser that is a teaching tool and uses audio and visual means to promote compliance with proper washing techniques. A detection means is used to commence a time interval, and washing instructions are used to communicate with the user as an instructional tool in washing. There is a feedback response during the washing cycle to walk the user through the washing cycle and provide progress indicators during the cycle. A usage indicator tracks the number of usages as part of a management tool of assessing overall employee performance.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for controlling the dosing of detergent in multiple stage washing machines having at least one separate detergent tank per washing stage. The entry of water into a detergent tank of the washing machine releases, without intervention in the washing control system, the single dosing of a predetermined amount of detergent into the detergent tank, the release of further dosages being prevented until a renewed activation. Furthermore, the invention relates to a control device for dosing detergents in washing machines in accordance with one of the above methods.

Abstract: A dispenser 100 for dispensing a chemical product that is dissolved by diluent. The dispenser includes a package 170 having a diaphragm, or fingered collar 180 attached to its opening. The diaphragm 180 has a plurality of flexible members or flexible fingers 185. The dispenser may utilize an injection manifold 109 that is sized and configured to be positioned on a washing machine top proximate the gap between the washing machine's top and lid. Still further, the invention includes a low level chemical product indicator. The indicator includes a focused light source 98a and 98a. The focused light source is a high intensity light emitting diode having a viewing angle of less than 6.degree. and an intensity of above 10,000 mcd. The dispenser also includes an apparatus and method in which a dispensing time of a dispenser is dynamically varied in response to diluent temperature during operation of the dispenser.

Abstract: A device for dispensing a product solution includes a container for a product solution, the container having a top end, the top end including a continuous septum. The device also includes a receptacle for receiving the container in an inverted condition, the receptacle including a seat portion for receiving the top end of the container, the seat portion including an upwardly extending, hollow piercing device capable of piercing the septum. The device also includes a pump for withdrawing product from the container through the piercing device. A method for dispensing a product solution is also disclosed.

Abstract: A safety circuit for washing machines prevents an accidental simultaneous feed of bleach and sour due to a malfunction of the machine's controller, by interposing a normally open contact and a normally closed contact of a relay, respectively, in the sour pump power line and the bleach pump power line. The coil of the relay is powered by the controller's power output for the pump in whose power circuit the normally open contact is located.

Abstract: A chemical dispensing system controller is used in conjunction with a mechanism for dispensing specified chemicals and a device that transmits trigger signals to the control system for requesting chemicals to be dispensed. The controller receives and accumulates sequences of the transmitted trigger signals. Each trigger signal sequence is preceded and followed by a period of time of predefined duration during which no trigger signals are received. At least some of the trigger signals in some of the trigger signal sequences are not received simultaneously. Also, the number of distinct chemical feed requests that can be communicated using the accumulated trigger signals exceeds the number of distinct trigger signals. The controller maps a first subset of the accumulated trigger signal sequences into chemical feed requests, each of which requests a quantity of a corresponding chemical. The controller enables the dispensing of chemicals in accordance with the chemical feed requests.

Abstract: A liquid-carrying container of machine, such as a dishwasher, has a detergent metering device disposed in a boundary wall thereof. The device has a housing with at least one container in which the detergent may be placed and which may be closed with a cover. The cover may be opened and closed with a control unit. The cover moves linearly, quietly, and with a minimal space requirement in a plane which extends parallel to the boundary wall of the machine.

Abstract: A washing machine includes a detergent dispenser having at least one fresh-water connection, a free air course disposed downstream of the at least one fresh-water connection, and a detergent chamber. A water guide conduit supplies fresh water to the detergent chamber. A fresh-water diversion line is connected to the water guide conduit downstream of the free air course.

Abstract: The present invention relates to gravity based dispensers for washing machines that incorporate at least one storage reservoir and at least one dispersement chamber, wherein the dispersement chamber is adjusted by a user to regulate the amount of a liquid or granular material that is dispensed by the device. The device is controllable to allow a predetermined amount of the stored material to be dispensed into the dispersement chamber. The material is then flushed or dispersed from the chamber by the introduction of a fluid that is under pressure into the dispersement chamber.

Abstract: An automatic washing machine includes a wash tub and a dispenser compartment which is connected to the wash tub. The washing machine further includes a valve assembly having a housing and a rotatable valve member, the housing having (1) a water inlet port defined therein which is connected to a main water line, and (2) a first water outlet port defined therein which is connected to the dispenser compartment, the rotatable valve member (1) disabling a flow of water from the water inlet port to the first water outlet port when the rotatable valve member is positioned at a first valve position, and (2) enabling the flow of water from the water inlet port to the first water outlet port when the rotatable valve member is positioned at a second valve position.

Abstract: A bleach liquor recovery system for a commercial bleaching apparatus. The recovery system includes a bleaching tank for bleaching loads of textile fabric items with a predetermined batch volume of bleach liquor and a bleach liquor supply system for providing fresh bleach liquor to the bleaching tank. The bleach liquor supply system includes a chemical mixing system for generating the fresh bleach liquor and a bleach liquor injection line for delivering the fresh bleach liquor from the chemical mixing system to the bleaching tank. A bleach liquor recirculation system is connected to the bleaching tank for reclaiming at least a portion of the bleach liquor from the bleaching tank after bleaching a load of textile fabric items and for recycling the reclaimed bleach liquor into successive loads of textile fabric items in the bleaching tank. In the preferred embodiment, a collection tank stores the reclaimed bleach liquor between the successive loads of textile fabric items.

Abstract: An automatic detergent and fabric softener dispensing system for use with a washer with cold and hot water input lines which are opened upon the actuation of associated solenoidal valves. The present invention includes a pair of cylindrical tanks. The tanks each have an output conduit each connected at first end thereof to a bottom of the associated tank and a second end thereof in communication with the washer. The pair of tanks consist of a detergent tank with an associated detergent pump situated in communication with the corresponding output conduit. Such pump is adapted to effect the transmission of detergent to the washer only during the receipt of an activation signal. Associated therewith is a fabric softener tank with an associated fabric softener pump situated in communication with the corresponding output conduit. Similar to the pump of the detergent tank, the present pump is adapted to effect the transmission of fabric softener to the washer only during the receipt of an activation signal.

Abstract: A control mechanism for dispensing fluent materials includes a linkage mechanism actuatable by a single drive member to cause release of a first fluent material from a first dispenser when the drive member is initially moved. The linkage mechanism causes the release of a second fluent material from a second dispenser when the drive member is moved a second time.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing at least one chemical composition useful to treat, e.g., clean, acidify, sanitize and the like, one or more pieces of equipment are provided. The present apparatus comprise a reservoir, at least one concentrate pump, a flow assembly and a control assembly. The concentrate pump or pumps are adapted to pump, at a controlled, preferably substantially continuously controlled, time rate and at a controlled time the concentrated form of a chemical composition from an associated reservoir. An important feature of the apparatus is the ability of the control assembly to, automatically and independently of the diluent (water) flow, control the time rate at which the concentrated form of the chemical composition exits the reservoir.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved flow-metered pumping system using an air-backed diaphragm pump with load compensation. A variable motor speed controller is used to compensate for flow rate reduction caused by pressure effects. When the output pressure on the pump increases to a point where the load on the pump motor exceeds a specified threshold, the motor speed controller increases the speed of the motor to compensate for pressure induced diaphragm distortion losses and to achieve a substantially constant flow rate across a range of pump output pressures.

Abstract: An apparatus useful for providing a plurality of chemical compositions useful to clean an item, e. g., a tank comprises a plurality of reservoirs each containing a concentrated form of a different chemical composition and each having an outlet through which the concentrate exits the reservoir; a subsystem for providing diluent to the concentrates which exit the reservoir to form the chemical compositions; and a control subsystem to automatically control the time during which each concentrate exits from each reservoir. A method for providing chemical compositions useful to clean an item is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus useful for providing a plurality of chemical compositions useful to clean an item, e.g., a tank, comprises a plurality of reservoirs each containing a concentrated form of a different chemical composition and each having an outlet through which the concentrate exits the reservoir; a subsystem for providing diluent to the concentrates which exit the reservoir to form the chemical compositions; and a control subsystem to automatically control the time during which each concentrate exits from each reservoir. A method for providing chemical compositions useful to clean an item is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a dishwasher access-door mounted dishwasher detergent dispenser having an improved assembly. The dispenser includes an outer bow-tie shaped door which has a central shaft extending therefrom. The shaft extends through the access door, and through a stationary actuating member and a rotary cam and latch member. A terminal end of the shaft provides a transverse bore through which is loosely slip-fit a retaining pin. The cam and latch member includes a cylindrical hub and a projecting member. The cylindrical hub includes an upstanding cylindrical wall and a camming surface. The cylindrical wall, which extends above and generally surrounds the camming surface, defines a notched opening through which the terminal end of the shaft is accessible for insertion and removal of the slip fit pin mounted therein. The cylindrical wall surrounds or encloses opposite ends of the mounting pin and prevents the unintentional or accidental removal of the mounting pin from the shaft.

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.

Abstract: The device of the invention dispenses a liquid, such as detergent or softener, into a clothes washing machine. The device includes two components: a container and a nozzle assembly. The container holds a quantity of liquid and a vane pump. The pump pumps the liquid through a conduit to the nozzle assembly. An anti-siphon tube is located in a hole in the conduit, within the container, but above the level of the liquid. When the pump is shut off, the anti-siphon tube prevents the creation of a siphon effect within the conduit. The nozzle assembly includes a nozzle housing, a hose from the container to the nozzle housing, and a nozzle to direct the liquid into the tub of the washing machine.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing solid or semi-solid detergents includes a hollow elongated opening or chute and an arcuate plate that extends from the side wall of the apparatus to beneath the chute. This plate provides a planar support for a detergent bar placed within the chute. Water is sprayed down the arcuate plate and projects against the detergent supported on the planar support causing it to dissolve and flow down a drain. The chute has a unique geometric design which is suitable to receive only one uniquely shaped elongated detergent bar. In a kitchen having several detergent dispensers, each detergent dispenser will have a uniquely defined chute so that only the appropriate detergent can be used in the appropriate dispenser.

Abstract: A method and a device for supplying doses of various treatment products to at least one compartment of a processing machine, in particular a compartment (2) of a washing machine (1) using doses of various liquid textile treating products (8). Each product is supplied by means of a separate transfer device (17), and the machine goes through an operating procedure which involves generating a single control signal at predetermined times in the course of the treatment, combining the series of identical control signals with a selective transfer device (17) control program, and selectively controlling, according to the program, the transfer device as the control signals appear during the machine's operating procedure.

Abstract: A device for washing machines to control the introduction of detergent. It is intended especially for washing machines and combined machines for the washing and drying of laundry, which have a microprocessor and a distributor with several separate compartments for the detergents and additives to be introduced into the machine tub during the laundry-washing cycle, and which are equipped as well with a selector 13 that may be set to the several compartments by means of two jointed levers 15 and 16. One such lever 15 is associated with two PTC sensors 20 and 21 containing wax which is heated when such sensors are powered. According to the invention, the device includes the connection of the PTC sensors 20 and 21 to a triac 32 powered by the machine electric circuit through a diode 34 and 35 for the purpose, so as to allow one, the other, or both PTC sensors 20 and 21 to be turned ON for every positive or negative half-wave of the electric current.

Abstract: An adjustable rinse additive dispenser is provided for a dishwasher having a washing compartment and a door pivotal between a horizontal open position and a vertical closed position. The dispenser includes a rinse additive reservoir mounted on the door. A conduit provides a fill opening for adding rinse additive to the reservoir. A knob assembly includes a shaft extending into the conduit so as to substantially seal the opposite ends of the conduit, and defines an annular chamber within the conduit. A trough is provided in the reservoir for holding a fixed quantity of rinse additive. A passageway provides communication between the trough and the annular chamber, and is normally closed by a plunger assembly. During the last rinse cycle of the dishwasher, the plunger assembly is moved to an open position so as to allow rinse additive to flow from the trough into the annular chamber.

Abstract: A liquid detergent dispensing apparatus is for use in a washing machine and includes an oscillator which generates a pulse signal having a frequency corresponding to a quantity of liquid detergent to be added to the wash tank of the washing machine. A metering pump, which is for dispensing a constant delivery quantity of detergent from a reservoir, is selectively driven for a period of time corresponding to the frequency of the pulse signal generated by the oscillator. Further, the metering pump is selectively driven in response to an operating state of an actuator of a multicompartment detergent container and in response to an operating state of a heating element of the washing machine.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing solid or semi-solid detergents includes a hollow elongated opening or chute and an arcuate plate that extends from the side wall of the apparatus to beneath the chute. This plate provides a planar support for a detergent bar placed within the chute. Water is sprayed down the arcuate plate and projects against the detergent supported on the planar support causing it to dissolve and flow down a drain. The chute has a unique geometric design which is suitable to receive only one uniquely shaped elongated detergent bar. In a kitchen having several detergent dispensers, each detergent dispenser will have a uniquely defined chute so that only the appropriate detergent can be used in the appropriate dispenser.

Abstract: A dispenser stores and dispenses two fluent materials, such as detergent and rinse aid in a clothes washer or diswashing machine. The dispenser has a hollow casing defining a pair of discrete storage reservoirs for accommodating the detergent and rinse aid. The detergent and rinse aid are released from the dispenser under the operation of a thermomagnetic mechanism. The thermomagnetic mechanism includes a first lamellar element of an electrically conductive alloy having a Cuurie-point, a second electrically conductive element, and an electrically energizable heating element interposed between the first and second elements. The actuator includes a permanent magnet and a release mechanism to which either the permanent magnet or the thermomagnetic mechanism is mounted. An attractive force between the permanent magnet and thermomognetic mechanism maintains the release mechanism in a position in which the detergent and/or rinse aid is confined within a respective storage reservoir.