U.S. patent application number 17/608696 was filed with the patent office on 2022-07-28 for dosing unit, water-bearing household appliance and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to RECKITT BENCKISER (BRANDS) LIMITED. The applicant listed for this patent is BSH HAUSGERATE GMBH, RECKITT BENCKISER (BRANDS) LIMITED. Invention is credited to Alberto BUOGO, Hallam COLLINGS, Henry Matthew Lawrence FLETCHER, Alexander SCHIELE, Jakob SCHULTZ, Iain Christopher SMITH, Jon WHADCOAT.
Application Number | 20220233049 17/608696 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-07-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220233049 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BUOGO; Alberto ; et
al. |
July 28, 2022 |
DOSING UNIT, WATER-BEARING HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE AND METHOD
Abstract
The invention relates to a dosing unit (18, 118, 218) for an
automatic dosing system of a water-bearing household appliance, in
particular a dishwasher or washing machine, configured for dosing
at least one of a plurality of detergent tablets stored in a
storage cartridge (30, 130, 230), comprising a dosing device (20,
120, 220) configured for picking the at least one detergent tablet
from the plurality and releasing the at least one detergent tablet
by temporarily switching by a predefined switching mechanism from a
closed state to a release state, wherein the dosing device (20,
120, 220) comprises a safety portion (24, 124, 224) for preventing
an unwanted switching. Moreover also a water-bearing household
appliance comprising the dosing unit and a method of dosing is
disclosed.
Inventors: |
BUOGO; Alberto; (Hull,
GB) ; SCHULTZ; Jakob; (Munchen, DE) ; SCHIELE;
Alexander; (Munchen, DE) ; COLLINGS; Hallam;
(Cambridgeshire, GB) ; FLETCHER; Henry Matthew
Lawrence; (Cambridgeshire, GB) ; SMITH; Iain
Christopher; (Cambridgeshire, GB) ; WHADCOAT;
Jon; (Cambridgeshire, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
RECKITT BENCKISER (BRANDS) LIMITED
BSH HAUSGERATE GMBH |
Berkshire
Munchen |
|
GB
DE |
|
|
Assignee: |
RECKITT BENCKISER (BRANDS)
LIMITED
Berkshire
GB
BSH HAUSGERATE GMBH
Munchen
DE
|
Appl. No.: |
17/608696 |
Filed: |
May 6, 2020 |
PCT Filed: |
May 6, 2020 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2020/062610 |
371 Date: |
November 3, 2021 |
International
Class: |
A47L 15/00 20060101
A47L015/00; A47L 15/44 20060101 A47L015/44; D06F 39/02 20060101
D06F039/02; D06F 33/37 20060101 D06F033/37 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 13, 2019 |
EP |
19173997.8 |
May 13, 2019 |
GB |
1906677.8 |
Claims
1. A dosing unit for an automatic dosing system of a water-bearing
household appliance configured for dosing at least one of a
plurality of detergent tablets stored in a storage cartridge, the
dosing unit comprising: a dosing device configured for picking the
at least one detergent tablet from the plurality and releasing the
at least one detergent tablet by temporarily switching by a
predefined switching mechanism from a closed state to a release
state, wherein the dosing device comprises a safety portion for
preventing an unwanted switching.
2. The dosing unit according to claim 1, wherein the safety portion
is configured such that a force for switching the dosing device
from the closed state to the release state by using the predefined
switching mechanism is applicable by a specific tool.
3. The dosing unit according to claim 2, wherein the dosing device
comprises a plug which is configured to be moved from a first
position, in which the dosing device is in the closed state, to a
second position, in which the dosing device is in the release
state, by turning the plug about a turning axis, wherein the safety
portion comprises an engagement section on a surface of the plug
for engagement with the specific tool for exerting a torque for
turning the plug.
4. The dosing unit according to claim 3, wherein the engagement
section comprises a spiral indent and the specific tool comprises a
corresponding spiral projection.
5. The dosing unit according to claim 1, to wherein the dosing
device comprises a buckler which is configured to be moved from a
first position, in which the dosing device is in the closed state,
to a second position, in which the dosing device is in the release
state, by laterally dislocating the buckler in a pulling direction,
wherein the safety portion is embodied as a surface of the buckler
that is facing away from the storage cartridge having a surface
normal including an angle to the pulling direction of maximally
60.degree..
6. The dosing unit according to claim 5, wherein the buckler
comprises a conical formed surface.
7. The dosing unit according to claim 1, wherein the safety portion
includes a surface having a low coefficient of friction with
respect to metal, wood, organic substances and plastics.
8. The dosing unit according to claim 1, wherein the safety portion
is configured to lock the dosing device in the closed state.
9. The dosing unit according to claim 8, wherein the safety portion
comprises a mechanical restraint device.
10. A method for using a dosing unit for dosing at least one of a
plurality of detergent tablets provided by the dosing unit,
comprising: engaging a driving portion of a driving unit with a
dosing device of the dosing unit; and switching the dosing device
from a closed state to a release state by using a predefined
switching mechanism by the driving unit.
11. The method according to claim 10, wherein a specific tool is
employed in the switching step.
12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising unlocking
a safety portion of the dosing device for preventing an unwanted
switching.
13. A water-bearing household appliance comprising an automatic
dosing system for automatically dosing at least one detergent
tablet provided by a dosing unit according to claim 1, the
automatic dosing system comprising a receiving portion configured
to removably receive the dosing unit and a driving unit configured
for switching the dosing device from the closed state to the
release state by using the predefined switching mechanism for
dosing the detergent tablet.
14. A method for operating a water-bearing household appliance
comprising an automatic dosing system for automatically dosing at
least one detergent tablet provided by a dosing unit into washing
liquor for washing articles, comprising: installing the dosing unit
in the automatic dosing system; engaging a driving portion of a
driving unit with a dosing device of the dosing unit; and switching
the dosing device from a closed state to a release state by using a
predefined switching mechanism by the driving unit.
15. The method according to claim 14, wherein a specific tool is
employed in the switching step, in particular for unlocking a
safety portion of the dosing device for preventing an unwanted
switching.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a U.S. National Phase of International
Patent Application No. PCT/EP2020/062610, filed on 6 Mar. 2020,
which claims priority to United Kingdom Application Serial No.
1906677.8 filed 13 May 2019 and European Application Serial No.
19173997.8 filed 13 May 2019. The entire contents of these
applications are incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The invention relates to a dosing unit for an automated
dosing system of a water-bearing household appliance, a
water-bearing household appliance, in particular a dishwasher or a
washing machine, a method for using such dosing unit for dosing at
least one detergent tablet and a method for operating a
water-bearing household appliance.
2. Background
[0003] Known household appliances, for example dishwashers or
washing machines, typically have a dosing system that consists of a
chamber for storing a single dose of detergent. The user of the
dishwasher has to fill the chamber with the detergent each time
before starting a washing cycle. This is inconvenient for the user.
Furthermore, such systems bear the risk that the user does not fill
in the correct amount of detergent or forgets to fill in detergent
at all. This can lead to bad or undesirable cleaning results. It is
desired that an automatic dosing system is available, which
automatically doses the correct amount of detergent at the correct
timings during a washing cycle.
[0004] Detergents for water-bearing household appliances can be
irritating or harmful, particularly when they come into contact
with skin or the eyes of a user. In particular, detergents for
automatic dosing devices may have a specific chemical formulation
that allows a higher efficiency, for example by increasing a
concentration of active agents. In order to protect the user of the
automatic dosing device it is desired to block easy access to the
interior of the dosing unit.
[0005] It is an objective of the invention to provide an improved
dosing unit.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In one aspect, the present invention provides a dosing unit
for an automatic dosing system of a water-bearing household
appliance configured for dosing at least one of a plurality of
detergent tablets stored in a storage cartridge, the dosing unit
comprising: a dosing device configured for picking the at least one
detergent tablet from the plurality and releasing the at least one
detergent tablet by temporarily switching by a predefined switching
mechanism from a closed state to a release state, wherein the
dosing device comprises a safety portion for preventing an unwanted
switching.
[0007] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method
for using a dosing unit for dosing at least one of a plurality of
detergent tablets provided by the dosing unit, comprising: engaging
a driving portion of a driving unit with a dosing device of the
dosing unit; and switching the dosing device from a closed state to
a release state by using a predefined switching mechanism by the
driving unit.
[0008] In another aspect, the present invention provides a
water-bearing household appliance, particularly a dishwasher or a
washing machine, with comprising an automatic dosing system for
automatically dosing at least one detergent tablet provided by a
dosing unit according any of the embodiments herein, the automatic
dosing system comprising a receiving portion configured to
removably receive the dosing unit and a driving unit configured for
switching the dosing device from the closed state to the release
state by using the predefined switching mechanism for dosing the
detergent tablet.
[0009] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method
for operating a water-bearing household appliance, particularly a
dishwasher or a washing machine, with comprising an automatic
dosing system for automatically dosing at least one detergent
tablet provided by a dosing unit into washing liquor for washing
articles, comprising: installing the dosing unit in the automatic
dosing system; engaging a driving portion of a driving unit with a
dosing device of the dosing unit; and switching the dosing device
from a closed state to a release state by using a predefined
switching mechanism by the driving unit.
[0010] These and other objects, features and advantages of the
present invention will become more apparent upon reading the
following specification in conjunction with the accompanying
description, claims and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The accompanying Figures, which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects
described below.
[0012] FIG. 1 shows a schematic of a first example of a dosing
unit;
[0013] FIG. 2 shows a schematic of a second example of a dosing
unit;
[0014] FIG. 3 shows a schematic of a third example of a dosing
unit;
[0015] FIG. 4 shows a schematic block diagram of an example of a
method for using a dosing unit;
[0016] FIG. 5 shows a schematic perspective view of an example of a
water-bearing household appliance; and
[0017] FIG. 6 shows a schematic block diagram of an example of a
method for operating a water-bearing household appliance.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0018] According to a first aspect, a dosing unit for an automatic
dosing system of a water-bearing household appliance, in particular
a dishwasher or washing machine, configured for dosing at least one
of a plurality of detergent tablets stored in a storage cartridge
is suggested. The dosing unit comprises a dosing device which is
configured for picking at least one detergent tablet from the
plurality and releasing the at least one detergent tablet by
temporarily switching by a predefined switching mechanism from a
closed state to a release state. A safety portion of the dosing
device is configured for preventing an unwanted switching.
[0019] This dosing unit has the advantage that the dosing device
cannot be switched from the closed state, which is the normal
state, to the release state in which detergent tablets may be
released and access to the interior of the dosing unit is possible,
by using bare hands and/or simple tools. Simple tools are, for
example, tools that are available in a common hardware store. These
comprise, for example, screwdrivers, knives, scissors, wrenches
and/or pliers. Therefore, the dosing unit is safe to be handled by
users. In particular, even if a child finds such a dosing unit and
plays with it, it is ensured that the child cannot accidentally
open the dosing unit, that is, switch it from the closed state to
the release state, and get access to the stored detergent
tablets.
[0020] The dosing unit may comprise more elements beside the dosing
device and the storage cartridge. Preferably, the elements of the
dosing unit are made of a plastic material that can processed by
injection moulding. However, some parts or elements of the dosing
device may be made of metal, ceramics and/or a composite
material.
[0021] The dosing device has the function to seal the storage
cartridge from the environment, preferably such that humidity
cannot enter the storage cartridge, because this might lead to
degradation of the detergent tablets stored in there. Further, the
dosing device has the function to selectively release a
predetermined number of detergent tablets, preferably a single
detergent tablet, each time the dosing unit is actuated. For this,
the dosing device may involve a number of interacting mechanical
elements that allow picking of the at least one detergent tablet
from the storage cartridge and releasing the at least one detergent
tablet from the dosing unit. The dosing device is preferably
attached to the storage cartridge such that it cannot be removed
without breaking the dosing unit.
[0022] In order to release the at least one detergent tablet, the
dosing device has at least two distinct states, which can be
defined by a certain arrangement of the mechanical elements of the
dosing device relative to each other. The at least two distinct
states are called closed state and release state. In the closed
state, the dosing unit is closed to the environment, preferably it
is sealed impermeable to fluids of all kinds in the closed state.
The dosing unit may comprise a sealing portion, for example a
rubber seal. In the release state, the at least one detergent
tablet is released from the dosing unit. When the dosing device is
in the release state, there may be a path from the environment to
the inside of the dosing unit. In the following, the dosing unit is
called to be in the closed state when the dosing device is in the
closed state and the dosing unit is called to be in the release
state when the dosing device is in the release state.
[0023] The dosing device is preferably switched from the closed
state to the release state by using a predefined switching
mechanism. The predefined switching mechanism involve a number of
manipulations performed on the dosing device, for example. In its
intended use, the dosing unit is placed in an automatic dosing
system of a water-bearing household appliance, wherein the
automatic dosing system is configured for performing the
manipulations, that is, to switch the dosing device by using the
predefined switching mechanism.
[0024] Preferably, the predefined switching mechanism involves
employing a specific tool. The specific tool is specifically
adapted for switching the dosing device. In particular, the
specific tool has features that are not found in common tools as
described above.
[0025] The dosing unit is switched to the release state only
temporarily, that is, it remains in the release state only for a
predetermined, preferably short, period, for example less than 15
seconds. After the predetermined period, the dosing unit returns to
the closed state, for example by switching back. Switching back
does not necessarily mean that the predefined switching mechanism
is employed, other ways are possible as well. By this, it is
ensured that the interior of the dosing unit is not exposed to the
environment excessively. The dosing unit may comprise a covering
means, such as lid, that temporarily blocks a path into the dosing
unit when the dosing device is in the release state in order to
reduce an input of humidity during release.
[0026] A safety portion of the dosing unit prohibits easy switching
of the dosing unit from the closed state to the release state by
using the predefined switching mechanism. In that sense, the safety
portion acts as a barrier against switching. The safety portion is
designed such that the dosing device cannot be switched from the
closed state to the release state with bare hands and/or simple
tools, as described above. That is, the safety portion prevents a
user to access the interior of the dosing unit by using the
predefined switching mechanism without the specific tool.
[0027] The specific tool is in particular prepared for switching
the dosing device from the closed state to the release state. For
this, the specific tool has, for example, a corresponding form. The
specific tool can therefore be considered as a key for unlocking
the safety portion in order to switch the dosing device to the
release state.
[0028] In its intended use, the dosing unit is placed in an
automatic dosing system of a water-bearing household appliance. The
automatic dosing system comprises a driving unit that is configured
for actuating the dosing unit for releasing the at least one
detergent tablet. For this, the automatic dosing system
particularly comprises the specific tool.
[0029] According to a first embodiment, the safety portion of the
dosing unit is configured such that a force for switching the
dosing device from the closed state to the release by using the
predefined switching mechanism state is applicable by a specific
tool.
[0030] In particular, the force for switching by using the
predefined switching mechanism is a lower force than when the
dosing is switch by using a different switching mechanism than the
predefined switching mechanism.
[0031] For example, shallow indents that do not have sharp edges do
not provide a possibility to position a common tool in a way such
that a sufficient force or torque can be applied to the dosing
device. However, the specific tool is, for example, formed
corresponding to the shallow indents, thus being able to engage on
a large area, such that a total force that is applicable by using
the specific tool adds up over the whole area and becomes
sufficient for the switching by using the predefined switching
mechanism.
[0032] According to a further embodiment, the dosing device
comprises a plug which is configured to be moved from a first
position, in which the dosing device is in the closed state, to a
second position, in which the dosing device is in the release
state, by turning the plug about a turning axis, wherein the safety
portion comprises an engagement section on a surface of the plug
for engagement with the specific tool for exerting a torque for
turning the plug.
[0033] In this embodiment, the predefined switching mechanism
involves particularly using the specific tool for turning the
plug.
[0034] According to a further embodiment, the engagement section
formed in the plug is implemented as a spiral indent and the
specific tool comprises a corresponding spiral projection.
[0035] The spiral preferably begins in a center of rotation of
turning the plug. By using a common tool, such as a screwdriver, it
is only possible to apply a force radially with respect to the
center of rotation, which does not provide any torque in the
turning direction, because the edges of the spiral indent are
essentially perpendicular to a radial direction at any position of
the spiral. Further, if the spiral has an end-point, there may be a
small portion at the end-point that allows to transfer a torque on
the plug. Preferably, in this case, the plug is designed such that
turning the plug by applying a torque via the end-point of the
spiral, which is possible only in a predefined direction, will lead
to drive the plug towards the first position, which is the closed
state of the dosing device.
[0036] In embodiments, the spiral indent is formed in the specific
tool and the spiral projection is formed in the plug.
[0037] According to a further embodiment, the dosing device
comprises a buckler which is configured to be moved from a first
position, in which the dosing device is in the closed state, to a
second position, in which the dosing device is in the release
state, by laterally dislocating the buckler in a pulling direction,
wherein the safety portion is embodied as a surface of the buckler
facing away from the storage cartridge having surface normal
including an angle to the pulling direction of maximally
60.degree..
[0038] In this embodiment, the predefined switching mechanism
involves pulling the buckler in the pulling direction. The special
geometry of the buckler's surface forms the safety portion in this
case. It has the effect that when applying a force that can
regularly be expected, it is not possible for a user to grip the
buckler with his hands or even with pliers and apply a sufficient
pulling force for moving the buckler and switching the dosing
device.
[0039] In order to move the buckler in the pulling direction, a
force needs to be applied in that direction. When the buckler is
gripped on opposite sides, a gripping force applied will be split
by the inclined surface of the buckler into a force component
normal to the surface and a force component parallel to the
surface, perpendicular to the normal component. The force component
parallel to the surface leads to sliding of the gripping tool when
that component is larger than an adhesion force between the
gripping tool and the surface. Thus, a force in the pulling
direction cannot be applied.
[0040] Preferably, the angle between the surface normal and the
pulling direction is smaller than 60.degree., for example
45.degree. or only 30.degree.. The smaller the angle, the stronger
the protection against unwanted switching. Preferably, the angle
between the surface normal and the pulling is smaller than the
specified value at any position on the surface of the buckler
facing away from the storage cartridge.
[0041] For example, the buckler has a pyramidical shape with a
polygonal base, such as a triangle. Preferably, the base is a
regular polygon.
[0042] According to a further embodiment, the buckler has a conical
formed surface.
[0043] Conical surfaces are preferred because opposite sides of the
buckler are symmetrically shaped according to a symmetry axis of
the cone, thus a force applied for gripping is even on both
sides.
[0044] According to a further embodiment, the safety portion
includes a surface having a low coefficient of friction, in
particular less than 0.2, with respect to metal, wood, organic
substances and plastics.
[0045] The coefficient of friction may be defined as a
dimensionless number which defines the relation between a normal
force applied between a first body, for example an element of the
dosing unit, and a second body, for example a tool, and a maximum
adhesion force counteracting a sliding relative movement between
the bodies. The coefficient of friction may be defined according to
Equation (1) below.
F.sub.f=.mu..times.F.sub.N Equation (1)
In Equation (1), F.sub.f denotes the adhesion force, .mu. denotes
the coefficient of friction and FN denotes the normal force.
[0046] According to a further embodiment, the safety portion is
configured to lock the dosing device in the closed state.
[0047] In this embodiment, the predefined switching mechanism
involves unlocking the safety portion, such that the switching can
be performed with ease. In particular, the specific tool may be
implemented to unlock the safety portion.
[0048] According to a further embodiment, the safety portion is
implemented as a mechanical restraint device.
[0049] In particular, the safety portion is arranged in form
closure with the dosing device. In this embodiment, the safety
portion may not be easily removed from the dosing unit, because
there is no space for common tools to be position so as to act on
the safety portion. Particularly, the safety portion is implemented
as lock for locking the dosing unit in the closed state.
[0050] For example, the safety portion blocks a movement of the
dosing device or an element of the dosing device in the predefined
switching mechanism. Then, in order to perform the switching, the
safety portion has to be unlocked, for example by shifting the
safety portion and/or by releasing the form fit. In particular, the
specific tool is implemented for unlocking the safety portion.
Preferably, the specific tool unlocks the safety portion when the
dosing unit is placed in the automatic dosing system.
[0051] According to a second aspect, a method for using a dosing
unit for dosing at least one of a plurality of detergent tablets
provided by the dosing unit is suggested. In a first step, driving
means of a driving unit are engaged with a dosing device of the
dosing unit. In a second step, the dosing device is switched from a
closed state to a release state by using a predefined switching
mechanism by the driving unit. For example, as a result, at least
one detergent tablet of the plurality is released from the dosing
unit.
[0052] This method is advantageously used in conjunction with the
dosing unit according to the first aspect. The method may comprise
further steps and/or the steps may be followed in an order
different than presented here.
[0053] In an embodiment, a specific tool is employed in the
switching step.
[0054] In a further embodiment, the method comprises unlocking a
safety portion of the dosing device for preventing an unwanted
switching.
[0055] Particularly, the specific tool is used for unlocking the
safety portion.
[0056] According to a third aspect, a water-bearing household
appliance, particularly a dishwasher or a washing machine, with an
automatic dosing system for automatically dosing at least one
detergent tablet provided by a dosing unit into washing liquor for
washing articles is suggested. The dosing unit is implemented
according to the first aspect. The automatic dosing system
comprises a receiving portion and a driving unit. The receiving
portion is configured for removably receiving the dosing unit. The
driving unit is configured for switching the dosing device from the
closed state to the release state by using the predefined switching
mechanism for dosing the at least one detergent tablet.
[0057] This water-bearing household appliance has the advantage
that multiple washing cycles can be performed without the need that
a user (re-)fills the detergent for each cycle. Further, a proper
amount of detergent can automatically be provided, that is, when
the articles to be washed, such as dishes or clothes, are
relatively clean, a small amount may be sufficient, for example a
single detergent tablet, and when the articles are relatively
dirty, a larger amount may be necessary for obtaining a good
cleaning result, for example three detergent tablets. This can be
convenient for a user. When the storage cartridge runs out of
detergent tablets, the user can simply replace the storage
cartridge or the whole dosing unit.
[0058] The features and advantages of the dosing unit according to
the first aspect also apply correspondingly to the suggested
water-bearing household appliance. In particular, the automatic
dosing system is configured to be operated in conjunction with any
one embodiment of the dosing unit according to the first aspect. It
is understood that the explanations and definitions provided with
respect to the first or second aspect apply to the third aspect
correspondingly.
[0059] The receiving portion of the automatic dosing system is
arranged in the water-bearing household appliance such that the
dosing unit will be oriented according to a preferred orientation
when the water-bearing household appliance is set up as intended
for use. In particular, a relative orientation with respect to a
gravitational vector is predetermined when the dosing unit is
placed in the receiving portion.
[0060] Particularly, in embodiments where the predefined switching
mechanism involves employing a specific tool, the specific tool is
part of the driving unit, such that the driving unit can perform
switching by using the predefined switching mechanism.
[0061] In embodiments, the dosing unit is arranged in the receiving
portion of the automatic dosing system. For example, the
water-bearing household appliance and the dosing unit are provided
as one entity.
[0062] Particularly, in embodiments where the safety portion of the
dosing unit is configured to lock the dosing device in the closed
state, the predefined switching mechanism involves unlocking the
safety portion, such that the switching can be performed with ease.
Here, in particular, the specific tool is part of the automatic
dosing system and may be implemented to unlock the safety portion.
For example, when the dosing unit is placed in the receiving
portion of the automatic dosing system, the specific tool engages
with the dosing unit and unlocks the safety portion.
[0063] According to a fourth aspect, a method for operating a
water-bearing household appliance, specifically a dishwasher or
washing machine, is suggested. The water-bearing household
appliance comprises an automatic dosing system for automatically
dosing a detergent tablet provided by a dosing unit into washing
liquor for washing articles. In a first step, the dosing unit is
installed in the automatic dosing system. This may involve both
user interactions as well as automatically driven arranging
interactions between the automatic dosing system and the dosing
unit. In a second step, driving means of a driving unit engage with
a dosing device of the dosing unit. In a third step, the dosing
device is switched from a closed state to a release state by using
a predefined switching mechanism by the driving unit. For example,
as a result, at least one detergent tablet of the plurality is
released from the dosing unit, thus being dosed into washing
liquor, for example.
[0064] This method is preferably performed with a water-bearing
household appliance according to the third aspect. The method may
comprise further steps and/or the steps may be followed in an order
different than presented here.
[0065] In an embodiment, a specific tool is employed in the
switching step.
[0066] In a further embodiment, the method comprises unlocking a
safety portion of the dosing device for preventing an unwanted
switching.
[0067] Particularly, the specific tool is used for unlocking the
safety portion.
[0068] The features and embodiments described in conjunction with
the suggested dosing unit or the suggested water-bearing household
appliance apply correspondingly to the suggested method.
[0069] The invention has been described in terms of different
embodiments. It is to be understood that one or more features of
any one embodiment may be combinable with one or more features of
the other embodiments. In addition, any single feature or
combination of features in any of the embodiments may constitute
additional embodiments. Further embodiments or aspects of the
invention are subject to the depending claims and the examples
which are described in the following with reference to the
figures.
[0070] FIG. 1 shows a schematic of a first example of a dosing
unit;
[0071] FIG. 2 shows a schematic of a second example of a dosing
unit;
[0072] FIG. 3 shows a schematic of a third example of a dosing
unit;
[0073] FIG. 4 shows a schematic block diagram of an example of a
method for using a dosing unit;
[0074] FIG. 5 shows a schematic perspective view of an example of a
water-bearing household appliance; and
[0075] FIG. 6 shows a schematic block diagram of an example of a
method for operating a water-bearing household appliance.
[0076] In the figures, like elements are denoted with the same
reference numerals if not indicated differently.
[0077] FIG. 1 shows a schematic of a first example of a dosing unit
18 comprising a dosing device 20 and a storage cartridge 30. In
this example, the dosing unit 18 has an elongated cylindrical
shape. The dosing unit 18 is configured for releasing a detergent
tablet (not shown) provided by the storage cartridge 30 by being
turned about a rotational axis X, which is a symmetry axis of the
cylinder in this example.
[0078] In particular, the dosing device 20 has an internal design
(not shown), that allows to pick up a detergent tablet from the
storage cartridge 30 and place it in a release chamber (not shown)
inside of the dosing device 20 arranged above an outlet 26 that is
arranged on a side wall of the dosing device 20 and is facing down
in FIG. 1. The dosing unit 18 is shown in the closed state, in
which the outlet 26 is blocked by a plug 22.
[0079] The plug 22 is arranged in the dosing device 20 such that it
can be turned about the axis X relative to the periphery of the
dosing device 20. For example, the plug 20 comprises a threaded
portion on at least a section of an outer surface of the plug 20,
which is engaged with a corresponding threaded portion formed in
the dosing device 20. By turning the plug 20, the plug 20 will be
driven along the axis X. Thus, by turning the plug 20, the
detergent tablet placed in the internal release chamber will be set
free when the outlet 26 is cleared by the plug 22.
[0080] On the front face of the plug 22 a safety portion 24 is
formed as a spiral indent. The spiral indent 24 begins in the
center, where the rotational axis X crosses the front face of the
plug 20. The spiral indent 24 ends at an end-point 25. The spiral
structure does not allow a torque to be transferred to the plug 22
in a direction that can drive the plug 22 out of the dosing device
20 by simple tools. In particular, when a tangential force is
exerted on the end-point 25, a torque on the plug 22 is created
which drives the plug 22 further into the dosing device 20. Thus,
this will not result in switching the dosing device 20 from the
closed state to the release state, in which the detergent tablet is
released via the outlet 26.
[0081] A specific tool 40 (see FIG. 5) that engages with the spiral
indent 24, in particular a tool that has a corresponding spiral
shape, allows to apply a torque in the correct turning direction
for switching the dosing device 20 from the closed state to the
release state. When the dosing unit 18 is intended to be used in
conjunction with an automatic dosing system 15 (see FIG. 5), for
example in a dishwasher or a washing machine, the specific tool 40
preferably is part of a driving unit 17 (see FIG. 5) of the
automatic dosing system 15.
[0082] In this example, the predefined switching mechanism
comprises turning the plug 22 by using the specific tool 40 that
has a corresponding shape for engaging with the safety portion 24
formed on the surface of the plug 22.
[0083] FIG. 2 shows a schematic of a second example of a dosing
unit 118 comprising a dosing device 120 and a storage cartridge
130. The dosing device 120 comprises a pre-dosing element 121 and a
buckler 122. Particularly, the pre-dosing element 121 is configured
to pick up a detergent tablet provided by the storage cartridge
130. By pulling the dosing device 120 in the direction indicated by
arrow P, the dosing device 120 is switched from the closed state to
the release state, that is, the detergent tablet picked up by the
pre-dosing element 121 is released.
[0084] In this example, the safety portion 124 is provided by the
buckler 122, which has a surface that does not allow gripping of
the buckler 122. In particular, the surface 124 is implemented such
that it does not allow a force to be exerted in the direction of
arrow P by gripping due to its orientation. Specifically, a surface
normal N of the surface 124 of the buckler 122 that is facing away
from the storage cartridge 130 includes an angle A with the pulling
direction P that is less than 60.degree., preferably less than
45.degree.. The lower the angle A, the harder it is to grip the
buckler 122. Preferably, the surface 124 has a smooth finishing,
such that a surface roughness is low and a firm grip on the surface
124 is hard to achieve.
[0085] A specific tool 40 (see FIG. 5) may be used for pulling the
dosing device 120 into the direction P in order to release a
detergent tablet. For example, the specific tool may use a suction
portion that adheres to the surface 124 of the buckler 122 and thus
allows to pull the dosing device 120. When the dosing unit 18 is
intended to be used in conjunction with an automatic dosing system
15 (see FIG. 5), for example in a dishwasher or a washing machine,
the specific tool 40 preferably is part of a driving unit 17 (see
FIG. 5) of the automatic dosing system 15.
[0086] The predefined switching mechanism particularly comprises
pulling of the dosing device 120 in the direction P, wherein the
total force that is applied to the dosing device 120 via the
buckler 122 is essentially equal to the resulting force in the
pulling direction P. For example, the total force is twice as large
as the resulting pulling force. That is, if someone applies a
strong force on the doing unit 118 or the dosing device 120 that
comprises a force component in the pulling direction P acting on
the dosing device 120 that is strong enough for actually switching
the dosing device 120 from the closed state to the release state,
this is not considered as switching by using the predefined
switching mechanism.
[0087] FIG. 3 shows a schematic of a third example of a dosing unit
218 comprising a dosing device 220 and a storage cartridge 230. The
dosing device 220 is implemented such that the predefined switching
mechanism may combine both lateral and angular dislocation of
elements.
[0088] In particular, the dosing device 220 comprises a pre-dosing
element 222 that is implemented for picking a single detergent
tablet from the storage cartridge 230 and transporting it to a
receiving chamber 227 formed in a release element 226. The release
element 227 is, for example, arranged in the dosing device 220 such
that it can be moved along a direction indicated by arrow P, which
is also called a pulling direction. The dosing unit 218 is shown in
the closed state in FIG. 3. For switching the dosing device 220 to
the release state, the release element 226 has to be shifted or
pulled in the pulling direction P. Then, the detergent tablet
stored in the receiving chamber 227 will slide off the inclined
surface of the receiving chamber 227 due to gravity, thus the
detergent tablet is released.
[0089] A safety portion 224 is arranged between a fixed part 228 of
the dosing device 220 and the release element 226. Particularly,
the safety portion 224 is engaged with both the fixed part 228 and
the release element 226, thus locking the release element 226 in
the closed position as is shown in FIG. 3. In order to move the
release portion 226, the safety portion 224 must be unlocked, that
is, engagement with either one of the fixed portion 228 or the
release element 226 has to be released.
[0090] For example, the safety portion 224 comprises a clipping
portion made from plastic that allows flexible bending (not shown).
The clipping portion engages with a corresponding portion on the
release element 226 and/or the fixed portion 228. For example, the
clipping portion is covered from the outside by the fixed portion
228 and is only reachable with a specific tool 40 (see FIG. 5).
Then, the clipping portion may be pushed aside in order to release
the engagement by the specific tool 40. Particularly, the specific
tool may be formed in an automatic dosing system 15 (see FIG. 5)
into which the dosing unit 218 is placed in its intended use, such
that the dosing unit 218 is in an unlocked state when placed in the
automatic dosing system 15 and is locked when removed from the
automatic dosing system 15.
[0091] FIG. 4 shows a schematic block diagram of an example of a
method for using a dosing unit 18, 118, 218 (see FIGS. 1 to 3), for
example one of the dosing units 18, 118, 218 described in
conjunction with one of FIGS. 1 to 3, for dosing at least one of a
plurality of detergent tablets provided by the dosing unit 18, 118,
218. In a first step S1, driving means of a driving unit 17 (see
FIG. 5) engage with a dosing device 20, 120, 220 (see FIGS. 1 to 3)
of the dosing unit 18, 118, 218. For example, the driving unit 17
may be implemented in an automatic dosing system 15 (see FIG. 5) of
a water-bearing household appliance 1 (see FIG. 5). In a second
step S2, the dosing device 20, 120, 220 is switched from a closed
state to a release state by using a predefined switching mechanism
by the driving unit 17. For example, as a result of the second step
S2, at least one detergent tablet is released from the dosing unit
18, 118, 218.
[0092] FIG. 5 shows a schematic perspective view of an example of a
water-bearing household appliance 1, which is implemented as a
domestic dishwasher. The domestic dishwasher 1 comprises a tub 2,
which can be closed by a door 3. Preferably, the door 3 seals the
tub 2 so that it is waterproof, for example by using a door seal
between door 3 and the tub 2. Preferably, the tub 2 has a cuboid
shape. Tub 2 and door 3 can form a washing chamber 4 for washing
dishes.
[0093] In FIG. 5, door 3 is shown in the open position. By
swiveling about an axis 5 at a lower edge of door 3, the door 3 can
be opened or closed. With the door 3, an opening 6 of the tub 2 for
inserting dishes into the washing chamber 4 can be opened or
closed. Tub 2 comprises a lower cover 7, an upper cover 8 facing
the lower cover 7, a rear cover 9 facing the closed door 3 and two
side covers 10, 11 which face each other. For example, the lower
cover 7, the upper cover 8, the rear cover 9 and the two side
covers 10, 11 can be made from stainless steel sheets.
Alternatively, at least one of the covers, for example the lower
cover 7, can be made from a polymeric material, such as
plastic.
[0094] The domestic dishwasher 1 further has at least one rack 12,
13, 14 on which dishes to be washed can be placed. Preferably, more
than one rack 12, 13, 14 is used, wherein rack 12 can be lower
rack, rack 13 can be an upper rack and rack 14 can be a rack
specific for cutlery. As is shown in FIG. 5, the racks 12 to 14 are
arranged vertically above each other in the tub 2. Each rack 12,
13, 14 can be pulled out from the tub 2 in a first direction 0 or
pushed into the tub 2 in a second direction I.
[0095] FIG. 5 further shows an automatic dosing system 15 that is
arranged in the door 3 of the domestic dishwasher 1. The automatic
dosing system 15 comprises a receiving portion 16 that is arranged
to accept a dosing unit 18, 118, 218 (see FIGS. 1 to 3), for
example one of the dosing units 18, 118, 218 described in
conjunction with one of FIGS. 1 to 3. Further, the automatic dosing
system 15 has a driving unit 17 configured to drive the dosing unit
18, 118, 218 for automatically dosing a detergent tablet stored in
a storage cartridge 30, 130, 230 (see FIGS. 1 to 3) of the dosing
unit 18, 118, 218.
[0096] The receiving portion 16 is arranged such that the dosing
unit 18, 118, 218 is oriented according to a predetermined
alignment relative to a gravitational vector when the door 3 is in
the closed position and the domestic dishwasher 1 is set up as
intended for use. Particularly, the orientation is such that the
gravitational force acting on each of the detergent tablets may be
employed during the dosing. For example, when the dosing unit 18,
118, 218 is switched from the closed to the release state, the
detergent tablet will fall out of the dosing unit 18, 118, 218 due
to gravitation. The receiving portion 16 may comprise a receiving
chamber (not shown) for installing the dosing unit 18, 118, 218,
which may be accessed by a door (not shown), separating it from the
washing chamber 4.
[0097] The driving unit 17 preferably comprises driving means (not
shown) for engaging with the dosing unit 18, 118, 218 that allows
switching of the dosing unit 18, 118, 218 by using a predefined
switching mechanism. Examples of this switching are explained above
referring to FIGS. 1 to 3.
[0098] It is noted that the automatic dosing system 15 may
advantageously be used in conjunction with a washing machine, which
is another example of a water-bearing household appliance.
[0099] FIG. 6 shows a schematic block diagram of an example of a
method for operating a water-bearing household appliance 1, for
example the domestic dishwasher shown in FIG. 5 or a washing
machine (not shown). In a first step S1, a dosing unit 18, 118, 218
(see FIGS. 1 to 3) is installed in an automatic dosing system 15
(see FIG. 5) of the water-bearing household appliance 1. This may
involve both user interactions as well as automatically driven
arranging interactions between the automatic dosing system 15 and
the dosing unit 18, 118, 218. Particularly, the water-bearing
household appliance 1 is implemented according to the one described
in conjunction with FIG. 5 and the dosing unit 18, 118, 218 is
implemented according to one of the dosing units described in
conjunction with FIGS. 1 to 3). In a second step S2, driving means
of a driving unit 17 (see FIG. 5) engage with a dosing device 20,
120, 220 (see FIGS. 1 to 3) of the dosing unit 18, 118, 218. In a
third step S3, the dosing device 20, 120, 220 is switched from a
closed state to a release state by using a predefined switching
mechanism by the driving unit 17. For example, as a result of this
step S3, at least one detergent tablet is released from the dosing
unit 18, 118, 218, thus being dosed into washing liquor, for
example.
[0100] While the present technology has been described in
connection with several practical examples, it is to be understood
that the technology is not to be limited to the disclosed examples,
but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and
equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the
technology.
REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0101] 1 Water-bearing household appliance [0102] 2 Tub [0103] 3
Door [0104] 4 Washing chamber [0105] 5 Axis [0106] 6 Opening [0107]
7 Lower cover [0108] 8 Top cover [0109] 9 Rear cover [0110] 10 Side
cover [0111] 11 Side cover [0112] 12 Rack [0113] 13 Rack [0114] 14
Rack [0115] 15 Automatic dosing system [0116] 16 Receiving portion
[0117] 17 Driving unit [0118] 18 Dosing unit [0119] 20 Dosing
device [0120] 22 Plug [0121] 24 Safety portion [0122] 25 End-point
[0123] 26 Outlet [0124] 30 Storage cartridge [0125] 40 Specific
tool [0126] 118 Dosing unit [0127] 120 Dosing device [0128] 121
Pre-dosing element [0129] 122 Buckler [0130] 124 Safety portion
[0131] 130 Storage cartridge [0132] 218 Dosing unit [0133] 220
Dosing device [0134] 222 Pre-dosing element [0135] 224 Safety
portion [0136] 226 Release element [0137] 227 Receiving chamber
[0138] 228 Fixed portion [0139] 230 Storage cartridge [0140] A
Angle [0141] I Inward direction [0142] N Surface normal [0143] O
Outward direction [0144] P Pulling direction [0145] S11 Method step
[0146] S12 Method step [0147] S21 Method step [0148] S22 Method
step [0149] S23 Method step [0150] X Turning axis
* * * * *