BULK ADDITIVE DISPENSING SYSTEM FOR A DISHWASHER APPLIANCE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to dishwasher appliances, and more particularly to systems for dispensing wash additives in dishwasher appliances and methods for using the same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Dishwasher appliances generally include a tub that defines a wash chamber. Rack assemblies can be mounted within the wash chamber of the tub for receipt of articles for washing. Wash fluid (e.g., various combinations of water and detergent along with optional additives) may be introduced into the tub where it collects in a sump space at the bottom of the wash chamber. During wash and rinse cycles, a pump may be used to circulate wash fluid to spray assemblies within the wash chamber that can apply or direct wash fluid towards articles disposed within the rack assemblies in order to clean such articles. During a drain cycle, a pump may periodically discharge soiled wash fluid that collects in the sump space and the process may be repeated.

Performance and efficiency have always been critical in the purchase decisions for consumers of dishwasher appliances. For example, consumers desire performance when needed to clean stuck on and adhered soils, while also achieving efficiency when soils are not as tough to get off. However, conventional dishwashers are designed to receive and supply a single type and/or amount of detergent during a wash cycle. In this regard, dishwashers commonly use single dose pods, gel, or powder detergents with no ability to adjust dosage based on soil level feedback from the dishwasher or the cycle chosen. Moreover, the consumer must typically manually add the detergent for each cycle, e.g., by filling a dispensing cup with liquid or powdered detergent or manually adding a detergent pod.

The use of fixed dosage detergent may lead consumers to either use too much detergent for their soil level, or not having enough to aid in the removal of adhered soils. For example, if a “Heavy” or “Pots” cycle is selected and the detergent dosage is not changed, all wash improvement must be made solely by mechanical or thermal action, therefore increasing energy usage and elongating cycles, leading to consumer frustration. In addition, conventional dishwashers only allow for one liquid or pod to be used, where the detergent(s) are all introduced to the wash cycle at the same time, which may result in the degradation of the performance of each detergent or may not allow the chemistry the full cycle time to act on the soils.

Accordingly, a dishwasher appliance with an improved additive dispensing system is desired. More specifically, a bulk additive dispensing system that facilitates the supply of various wash additives at desired volumes and times of a wash cycle would be particularly beneficial.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

In one exemplary embodiment, a dishwasher appliance is provided including a wash tub positioned within a cabinet and defining a wash chamber, a door mounted to the cabinet to provide selective access to the wash chamber, a water supply for providing water into the wash tub, an additive dispensing system comprising a bulk storage tank defining a plurality of additive chambers and a pump assembly for selectively urging a flow of wash additive from the plurality of additive chambers into the wash chamber, a turbidity sensor configured to measure a turbidity of wash fluid collected in the wash chamber, and a controller in operative communication with the water supply, the additive dispensing system and the turbidity sensor. The controller is configured to operate the water supply to add a volume of water into the wash tub, obtain a turbidity reading using the turbidity sensor, determine a target additive volume based on the turbidity reading, and operate the additive dispensing system to dispense the target additive volume into the wash tub.

In another exemplary embodiment, a method of operating an additive dispensing system of a dishwasher appliance is provided. The additive dispensing system includes a bulk storage tank defining a plurality of additive chambers and a pump assembly for selectively urging a flow of wash additive from the plurality of additive chambers into a wash chamber. The method includes operating the water supply to add a volume of water into the wash tub, obtaining a turbidity reading using the turbidity sensor, determining a target additive volume based on the turbidity reading, and operating the additive dispensing system to dispense the target additive volume into the wash tub.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a dishwasher appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary dishwashing appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of the dishwashing appliance of FIG. 1 with a door of the dishwasher appliance hidden to expose other components in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 provides a schematic view of an example additive dispensing system of a washing appliance such as the example dishwashing appliance of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 provides a schematic view of an example additive dispensing system of a washing appliance such as the example dishwashing appliance of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 provides a perspective view of a door of the example dishwashing appliance of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 provides a top view of a door of the example dishwashing appliance of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 provides a method for operating an additive dispensing system of a dishwasher appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 9 provides a method for operating an additive dispensing system of a dishwasher appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 10 provides a method for operating an additive dispensing system of a dishwasher appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 11 provides a method for operating an additive dispensing system of a dishwasher appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 12 provides a method for operating an additive dispensing system of a dishwasher appliance according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter.

Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative flow direction with respect to fluid flow in a fluid pathway. For example, “upstream” refers to the flow direction from which the fluid flows, and “downstream” refers to the flow direction to which the fluid flows. The terms “includes” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”).

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, is applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. For example, the approximating language may refer to being within a 10 percent margin.

FIGS. 1 and 2 depict an exemplary domestic dishwashing appliance or dishwasher 100 that may be configured in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. For the particular embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the dishwasher 100 includes a cabinet 102 having a tub 104 therein that defines a wash chamber 106. As shown, tub 104 extends between a top 107 and a bottom 108 along a vertical direction V, between a pair of side walls 110 along a lateral direction L, and between a front side 111 and a rear side 112 along a transverse direction T. Each of the vertical direction V, lateral direction L, and transverse direction T are mutually orthogonal to one another.

The tub 104 includes a front opening 114 and a door 116 hinged at its bottom for movement between a normally closed vertical position (shown in FIG. 2), wherein the wash chamber 106 is sealed shut for washing operation, and a horizontal open position for loading and unloading of articles from the dishwasher 100. According to exemplary embodiments, dishwasher 100 further includes a door closure mechanism or assembly 118 that is used to lock and unlock door 116 for accessing and sealing wash chamber 106.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, tub side walls 110 may accommodate a plurality of rack assemblies. More specifically, guide rails 120 may be mounted to side walls 110 for supporting a lower rack assembly 122, a middle rack assembly 124, and an upper rack assembly 126. As illustrated, upper rack assembly 126 is positioned at a top portion of wash chamber 106 above middle rack assembly 124, which is positioned above lower rack assembly 122 along the vertical direction V. Each rack assembly 122, 124, 126 is adapted for movement between an extended loading position (not shown) in which the rack is substantially positioned outside the wash chamber 106, and a retracted position (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) in which the rack is located inside the wash chamber 106. This is facilitated, for example, by rollers 128 mounted onto rack assemblies 122, 124, 126, respectively. Although a guide rails 120 and rollers 128 are illustrated herein as facilitating movement of the respective rack assemblies 122, 124, 126, it should be appreciated that any suitable sliding mechanism or member may be used according to alternative embodiments.

Some or all of the rack assemblies 122, 124, 126 are fabricated into lattice structures including a plurality of wires or elongated members 130 (for clarity of illustration, not all elongated members making up rack assemblies 122, 124, 126 are shown in FIG. 2). In this regard, rack assemblies 122, 124, 126 are generally configured for supporting articles within wash chamber 106 while allowing a flow of wash fluid to reach and impinge on those articles (e.g., during a cleaning or rinsing cycle). According to another exemplary embodiment, a silverware basket (not shown) may be removably attached to a rack assembly (e.g., lower rack assembly 122) for placement of silverware, utensils, and the like, that are otherwise too small to be accommodated by rack 122.

Dishwasher 100 further includes a plurality of spray assemblies for urging a flow of water or wash fluid onto the articles placed within wash chamber 106. More specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 2, dishwasher 100 includes a lower spray arm assembly 134 disposed in a lower region 136 of wash chamber 106 and above a sump 138 so as to rotate in relatively close proximity to lower rack assembly 122. Similarly, a mid-level spray arm assembly 140 is located in an upper region of wash chamber 106 and may be located below and in close proximity to middle rack assembly 124. In this regard, mid-level spray arm assembly 140 may generally be configured for urging a flow of wash fluid up through middle rack assembly 124 and upper rack assembly 126. Additionally, an upper spray assembly 142 may be located above upper rack assembly 126 along the vertical direction V. In this manner, upper spray assembly 142 may be configured for urging or cascading a flow of wash fluid downward over rack assemblies 122, 124, and 126. As further illustrated in FIG. 2, upper rack assembly 126 may further define an integral spray manifold 144, which is generally configured for urging a flow of wash fluid substantially upward along the vertical direction V through upper rack assembly 126.

The various spray assemblies and manifolds described herein may be part of a fluid distribution system or fluid circulation assembly 150 for circulating water and wash fluid in the tub 104. More specifically, fluid circulation assembly 150 includes a pump 152 for circulating water or wash fluid (e.g., detergent, water, or rinse aid) in the tub 104. Pump 152 may be located within sump 138 or within a machinery compartment located below sump 138 of tub 104, as generally recognized in the art. Fluid circulation assembly 150 may include one or more fluid conduits or circulation piping for directing water or wash fluid from pump 152 to the various spray assemblies and manifolds. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a primary supply conduit 154 may extend from pump 152, along rear 112 of tub 104 along the vertical direction V to supply wash fluid throughout wash chamber 106.

As illustrated, primary supply conduit 154 is used to supply wash fluid to one or more spray assemblies (e.g., to mid-level spray arm assembly 140 and upper spray assembly 142). However, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, any other suitable plumbing configuration may be used to supply wash fluid throughout the various spray manifolds and assemblies described herein. For example, according to another exemplary embodiment, primary supply conduit 154 could be used to provide wash fluid to mid-level spray arm assembly 140 and a dedicated secondary supply conduit (not shown) could be utilized to provide wash fluid to upper spray assembly 142. Other plumbing configurations may be used for providing wash fluid to the various spray devices and manifolds at any location within dishwasher appliance 100.

Each spray arm assembly 134, 140, 142, integral spray manifold 144, or other spray device may include an arrangement of discharge ports or orifices for directing wash fluid received from pump 152 onto dishes or other articles located in wash chamber 106. The arrangement of the discharge ports, also referred to as jets, apertures, or orifices, may provide a rotational force by virtue of wash fluid flowing through the discharge ports. Alternatively, spray arm assemblies 134, 140, 142 may be motor-driven, or may operate using any other suitable drive mechanism. Spray manifolds and assemblies may also be stationary. The resultant movement of the spray arm assemblies 134, 140, 142 and the spray from fixed manifolds provides coverage of dishes and other dishwasher contents with a washing spray. Other configurations of spray assemblies may be used as well. For example, dishwasher 100 may have additional spray assemblies for cleaning silverware, for scouring casserole dishes, for spraying pots and pans, for cleaning bottles, etc. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiments discussed herein are used for the purpose of explanation only and are not limitations of the present subject matter.

In operation, pump 152 draws wash fluid in from sump 138 and pumps it to a diverter assembly 156 (e.g., which may be positioned within sump 138 of dishwasher appliance 100). Diverter assembly 156 may include a diverter disk (not shown) disposed within a diverter chamber 158 for selectively distributing the wash fluid to the spray arm assemblies 134, 140, 142 or other spray manifolds or devices. For example, the diverter disk may have a plurality of apertures that are configured to align with one or more outlet ports (not shown) at the top of diverter chamber 158. In this manner, the diverter disk may be selectively rotated to provide wash fluid to the desired spray device.

According to an exemplary embodiment, diverter assembly 156 is configured for selectively distributing the flow of wash fluid from pump 152 to various fluid supply conduits, only some of which are illustrated in FIG. 2 for clarity. More specifically, diverter assembly 156 may include four outlet ports (not shown) for supplying wash fluid to a first conduit for rotating lower spray arm assembly 134 in the clockwise direction, a second conduit for rotating lower spray arm assembly 134 in the counter-clockwise direction, a third conduit for spraying an auxiliary rack such as the silverware rack, and a fourth conduit for supply mid-level or upper spray assemblies 140, 142 (e.g., such as primary supply conduit 154).

The dishwasher 100 is further equipped with a controller 160 to regulate operation of the dishwasher 100. The controller 160 may include one or more memory devices and one or more microprocessors, such as general or special purpose microprocessors operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with a cleaning cycle. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively, controller 160 may be constructed without using a microprocessor (e.g., using a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuitry, such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.

The controller 160 may be positioned in a variety of locations throughout dishwasher 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 160 may be located within a control panel area 162 of door 116, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In such an embodiment, input/output (“I/O”) signals may be routed between the control system and various operational components of dishwasher 100 along wiring harnesses that may be routed through the bottom of door 116. Typically, the controller 160 may be in operative communication with a user interface panel 164 through which a user may select various operational features and modes and monitor progress of the dishwasher 100. In one embodiment, the user interface 164 may represent a general purpose I/O (“GPIO”) device or functional block. In certain embodiments, the user interface 164 includes input components 166, such as one or more of a variety of electrical, mechanical or electro-mechanical input devices including capacitive touch screens/buttons, rotary dials, push buttons, and touch pads. The user interface 164 may further include one or more display components 168, such as a digital display device or one or more indicator light assemblies designed to provide operational feedback to a user. The user interface 164 may be in communication with the controller 160 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.

It should be appreciated that the invention is not limited to any particular style, model, or configuration of dishwasher 100. The exemplary embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 is for illustrative purposes only. For example, different locations may be provided for user interface 164, different configurations may be provided for rack assemblies 122, 124, 126, different spray arm assemblies 134, 140, 142 and spray manifold configurations may be used, and other differences may be applied while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter. Moreover, aspects of the present subject matter may be applied to other appliances as well, such as refrigerators, ovens, microwaves, etc.

Referring now generally to FIGS. 1 and 2, door 116 will be described according to exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. Although door 116 is described herein as being used with dishwasher 100, it should be appreciated that door 116 or variations thereof may be used on any other suitable residential or commercial appliance. As described herein, door 116 may share a coordinate system with dishwasher 100, e.g., when door 116 is in the closed position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2). Specifically, door 116 may define a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L. and a transverse direction T. Therefore, these directions may be used herein to refer to features of door 116 and its various components and sub-assemblies.

As shown, in the normally closed position, door 116 extends from a top end or top edge 180 to a bottom end or bottom edge 182 along the vertical direction V; from a front end 184 to a rear end 186 along the transverse direction T; and between two lateral ends 188 along the lateral direction L. According to exemplary embodiments, door 116 may be formed from one or more exterior panels that define an interior chamber of door 116. According to exemplary embodiments, the exterior panels of door 116 may be panels that are stamped from stainless steel or may be formed from any other suitably rigid material, such as thermoformed plastic, other metals, etc. In general, the exterior panels of door 116 may be assembled in any suitable manner, e.g., may be secured together using any suitable mechanical fastener, welding, snap-fit mechanisms, etc. In addition, it should be appreciated that an insulating material (not shown), such as fiberglass or foam insulation, may be positioned within door 116 to provide thermal and/or sound insulation to dishwasher 100.

Referring still to FIGS. 1 and 2, user interface panel 164 is positioned proximate top edge 180 of door 116 along the vertical direction V. In this manner, user interface panel 164 may be partially hidden below a countertop when dishwasher appliance 100 is installed below the countertop and door 116 is closed. Accordingly, dishwasher appliance 100 may be referred to as a “top control dishwasher appliance.” However, it should be appreciated that aspects of the present subject matter may be used with dishwasher appliances having other configurations or any other suitable appliance. For example, user interface panel 164 may be alternately positioned on front face or front end 184 of door 116.

User interface panel 164 is positioned on door 116 such that a user can engage or interact with user interface panel 164, e.g., to select operating cycles and parameters, activate/deactivate operating cycles, or adjust other operating parameters of dishwasher appliance 100. User interface panel 164 may include a printed circuit board (not shown) that is positioned within door 116. According to exemplary embodiments, printed circuit board may include or be operatively coupled to controller 160 and/or user interface panel 164. In addition, user interface panel 164 may include or be operably coupled to one or more user inputs or touch buttons (e.g., identified generally herein as user inputs 166) for receiving user input, providing user notifications, or illuminating to indicate cycle or operating status.

Specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, user inputs 166 include a plurality of capacitive sensors that are mounted to user interface panel 164 and are operable to detect user inputs. For example, these capacitive sensors may be configured for triggering when a user touches a top edge 180 of user interface panel 164 in a region associated with a particular user input 166. In particular, these capacitive sensors can detect when a finger or another conductive material with a dielectric different than air contacts or approaches user interface panel 164, along with the precise location, pressure, etc. of the finger interaction.

When a user touches top edge 180 of user interface panel 164 adjacent one of user inputs 166, the associated capacitive sensors may be triggered and may communicate a corresponding signal to controller 160. In such a manner, operations of dishwasher appliance 100 can be initiated and controlled. According to exemplary embodiments, the capacitive sensors may be distributed laterally on user interface panel 164. It will be understood that other any suitable number, type, and position of capacitive sensors may be used while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter. Indeed, any suitable number, type, and configuration of user inputs 166 may be used while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

User interface panel 164 may define a plurality of surfaces that are intended to be illuminated for various purposes. For example, user inputs 166 may be illuminated by light sources to inform the user of the location of the button or to provide some other status indication. Notably, this illumination is typically achieved by directing a light beam along the vertical direction V onto top edge 180 of user interface panel 164. Door 116 may further include a plurality of light sources or lighting devices that are configured for illuminating one or more surfaces of user interface panel 164. It should be appreciated that these light sources may include any suitable number, type, configuration, and orientation of light sources mounted at any suitable location to illuminate status indicators or buttons in any suitable colors, sizes, patterns, etc. In other words, the light sources may be provided as any suitable number, type, position, and configuration of electrical light source(s), using any suitable light technology and illuminating in any suitable color. For example, the light sources may include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), which may each illuminate in a single color (e.g., white LEDs), or which may each illuminate in multiple colors (e.g., multi-color or RGB LEDs) depending on the control signal from controller 160.

However, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, the light sources may include any other suitable traditional light bulbs or sources, such as halogen bulbs, fluorescent bulbs, incandescent bulbs, glow bars, a fiber light source, etc. Moreover, the light sources may be operably coupled (e.g., electrically coupled) to controller 160 or another suitable control board to facilitate activation or illumination of the light sources (e.g., to indicate a user input, state of the dishwasher appliance, state of the wash cycle, or any other relevant information to a user).

According to exemplary embodiments, user interface panel 164 may be any suitable transparent or semitransparent feature for diffusing, directing, or otherwise transmitting light from a light source. For example, user interface panel 164 may be formed from a suitable transparent or translucent material configured to direct light energy, such as a dielectric material, such as glass or plastic, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyacrylic, or any other suitable material.

In addition, user interface panel 164 may be a dead fronted panel. As used herein, the term “dead front” and the like is generally intended to refer to portions of a control panel which may be used as indicators, buttons, interactive control surfaces, or other user-interaction features without exposing the user to the operating side of the equipment or live parts and connections, i.e., lights, electrical connections, etc. For example, user interface panel 164 may include a transparent or translucent body and an opaque masking material that is selectively printed on top edge 180 of the translucent body to define capacitive touch buttons or user inputs 166.

The opaque material may be deposited on the translucent body to define any suitable number, size, and configuration of illuminated features. These illuminated features may be shapes or include other forms such as symbols, words, etc. that are visible on user interface panel 164. More specifically, when light sources are energized, capacitive touch buttons or user inputs 166 on top edge 180 may be illuminated. Thus, the dead fronted top edge 180 may be the surface that is contacted for controlling dishwasher appliance 100 or which may be illuminated for purposes of indicating operating status or other conditions to the user of the dishwasher appliance 100.

Referring still to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of an external communication system 190 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. In general, external communication system 190 is configured for permitting interaction, data transfer, and other communications between dishwasher appliance 100 and one or more external devices. For example, this communication may be used to provide and receive operating parameters, user instructions or notifications, performance characteristics, user preferences, or any other suitable information for improved performance of dishwasher appliance 100. In addition, it should be appreciated that external communication system 190 may be used to transfer data or other information to improve performance of one or more external devices or appliances and/or improve user interaction with such devices.

For example, external communication system 190 permits controller 160 of dishwasher appliance 100 to communicate with a separate device external to dishwasher appliance 100, referred to generally herein as an external device 192. As described in more detail below, these communications may be facilitated using a wired or wireless connection, such as via a network 194. In general, external device 192 may be any suitable device separate from dishwasher appliance 100 that is configured to provide and/or receive communications, information, data, or commands from a user. In this regard, external device 192 may be, for example, a personal phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop or personal computer, a wearable device, a smart home system, or another mobile or remote device.

In addition, a remote server 196 may be in communication with dishwasher appliance 100 and/or external device 192 through network 194. In this regard, for example, remote server 196 may be a cloud-based server 196, and is thus located at a distant location, such as in a separate state, country, etc. According to an exemplary embodiment, external device 192 may communicate with a remote server 196 over network 194, such as the Internet, to transmit/receive data or information, provide user inputs, receive user notifications or instructions, interact with or control dishwasher appliance 100, etc. In addition, external device 192 and remote server 196 may communicate with dishwasher appliance 100 to communicate similar information.

In general, communication between dishwasher appliance 100, external device 192, remote server 196, and/or other user devices or appliances may be carried using any type of wired or wireless connection and using any suitable type of communication network, non-limiting examples of which are provided below. For example, external device 192 may be in direct or indirect communication with dishwasher appliance 100 through any suitable wired or wireless communication connections or interfaces, such as network 194. For example, network 194 may include one or more of a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a personal area network (PAN), the Internet, a cellular network, any other suitable short- or long-range wireless networks, etc. In addition, communications may be transmitted using any suitable communications devices or protocols, such as via Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, Zigbee®, wireless radio, laser, infrared, Ethernet type devices and interfaces, etc. In addition, such communication may use a variety of communication protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP, SMTP. FTP), encodings or formats (e.g., HTML, XML), and/or protection schemes (e.g., VPN, secure HTTP, SSL).

External communication system 190 is described herein according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. However, it should be appreciated that the exemplary functions and configurations of external communication system 190 provided herein are used only as examples to facilitate description of aspects of the present subject matter. System configurations may vary, other communication devices may be used to communicate directly or indirectly with one or more associated appliances, other communication protocols and steps may be implemented, etc. These variations and modifications are contemplated as within the scope of the present subject matter.

Referring now generally to FIGS. 3 through 7, the dishwasher appliance 100 may further include an additive dispensing system 200 that is configured to selectively dispense wash additive into wash tub 104. In this regard, additive dispensing system 200 may be mounted within door 116 of dishwasher appliance 100 (or at any other suitable location within dishwasher appliance 100) and may store a bulk amount of various wash additives. In this regard, additive dispensing system 200 may include a bulk storage tank 202 containing a plurality of fluids for washing and/or rinsing the articles within the wash chamber 106 and/or cleaning or refreshing an interior of dishwasher appliance 100. According to the illustrated embodiment, bulk storage tank 202 defines a plurality of additive chambers 204. For example, the illustrated embodiment includes four additive chambers 204, each of which may be configured for receiving a different wash additive, though any other suitable number of chambers may be used.

According to an example embodiment, the plurality of additive chambers 204 store at least one of a detergent, a rinse aid, bleach, a sanitizing agent, or any other suitable wash additive. In addition, it should be appreciated that the volume of each additive chamber 204 may vary, e.g., depending on common dosage volumes of that particular additive. For example, a rinse aid may have a lower dosage than detergent, so the additive chamber 204 storing rinse aid may be relatively smaller than the additive chamber 204 storing detergent. According to example embodiments, and as illustrated for example in FIG. 5, each of the plurality of additive chambers 204 may define a different storage volume.

As illustrated for example in FIGS. 2 and 3, dishwasher appliance 100 may further include a water supply 206 for selectively dispensing water into wash tub 104. In this manner, controller 160 may operate water supply 206 and additive dispensing system 200 to generate the desired wash fluid (e.g., mixture of water and wash additive) within wash chamber 106. Furthermore, as shown, dishwasher appliance 100 may also include one or more pumps 210 for directing or pumping the plurality of fluids from the bulk storage tank 202 and into the wash chamber 106. Further, as will be discussed in more detail herein, the dishwasher appliance 100 may include a diverter assembly 212 for controlling the plurality of fluids flowing from the additive chambers 204 of the bulk storage tank 202 and into the wash chamber 106 along a flow path 214 (see FIG. 3).

According to the illustrated embodiment, additive dispensing system 200 includes a single pump 210, e.g., such as a peristaltic pump, for urging a flow of wash additive through additive dispensing system 200. However, it should be appreciated that any other suitable number, type, and configuration of pumps are possible and within the scope of the present subject matter. For example, according to alternative embodiments, additive dispensing system 200 may include multiple pumps, e.g., such as one pump for each of the additive chambers 204. According to such and embodiment, each pump may be separately and selectively operated to dispense the desired type, volume, and flow rate of wash additives from the additive chambers 204.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the diverter assembly 212 may be in fluid communication with a dispenser 216 for dispensing one of the plurality of different fluids into the wash chamber 106 at a time. For example, dispenser 216 may be a nipple or discharge nozzle positioned at a bottom edge 182 and at a rear end 186 of door 116 for discharging the selected wash additive directly into wash chamber 106. Details of the operation of diverter assembly 212 are omitted here for brevity, but any suitable diversion mechanism for selectively coupling one or more of the additive chambers 204 to a pump line 218 or outlet line may be used while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

As illustrated, the bulk storage tank 202, the pump 210, the dispenser 216, and the diverter assembly 212 may be disposed within door 116, e.g., entirely within the door chamber. As such, the bulk storage tank 202, the diverter assembly 212, the pump 210, and the dispenser 216 are illustrated as having a particular arrangement along the flow path 214. However, it should be understood that such an arrangement is not limiting, and a variety of arrangements can be implemented in accordance with the present disclosure. For example, the pump 210 and the dispenser 216 can be arranged in a different order along the flow path 214 such that the dispenser 216 is disposed adjacent or connected to the diverter assembly 212.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a perspective view of the diverter assembly 212 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The diverter assembly 212 can be used with a variety of appliances, e.g., any suitable washing appliance, such as the dishwasher appliance 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2 or another washing appliance. As shown, the diverter assembly 212 includes a housing 220 which may include a plurality of inlets 222 and an outlet 224. In particular, the plurality of inlets 222 and outlet 224 may extend from housing 220, such that the plurality of inlets 222 and outlet 224 extend in a parallel direction. Further, the plurality of inlets 222 may include any suitable number of inlets, such as five (5) separate inlets as shown. In further embodiments, housing 220 of diverter assembly 212 may have more or less than five (5) separate inlets.

Referring still to FIG. 4, in example embodiments, the diverter assembly 212 may be configured to fluidly couple selected additive chambers 204 of bulk storage tank 202 with pump line 218. For example, the diverter assembly 212 may be fluidly coupled with the bulk storage tank 202 containing the plurality of wash additives via a plurality of conduits 226 coupled to the plurality of inlets 222 of the housing 220. For example, each conduit of the plurality of conduits 226 may be in fluid communication with a respective one of the separate additive chambers 204. In other words, each fluid of the plurality of wash additives may be different from every other fluid, and each respective one different fluid may be in communication with a respective one conduit of the plurality of conduits 226, such that each conduit is in communication with one and only one fluid. Thus, for example, one of the plurality of fluids may flow into the diverter assembly 212 through one conduit of the plurality of conduits 226 and into one inlet of the plurality of inlets 222.

Further, the outlet 224 of housing 220 may be configured for being connected to a pump of a washing appliance, such as the pump 210 of the dishwasher appliance 100 shown in FIG. 1, to be provided to a dispenser of the dishwasher appliance 100, such as the dispenser 216 of the dishwasher appliance 100. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, pump line 218 may be connected between outlet 224 of the housing 220 and the pump, e.g., pump 210 of the dishwasher appliance 100, for the different wash additives to be pumped therethrough. As such, dispenser 216 may be configured for dispensing one or more of the plurality of different wash additives into the appliance at a time. In some example embodiments, one of the plurality of wash additives may be one of water or air, e.g., to facilitate a purging of the additive dispensing system 200.

Referring now specifically to FIGS. 6 and 7, additive dispensing system 200 may further include a docking port 230 that is generally configured for receiving an additive refill cartridge (not shown). In this regard, the volume of additive chambers 204 may generally be selected such that each additive chamber 204 typically needs to be refilled at the same time. In addition, the additive refill cartridge may include four chambers that correspond to additive chambers 204 and have a similar storage volume. Docking port 230 may further define a plurality of inlets 232, each of the inlets 232 being fluidly coupled to one of the plurality of additive chambers 204. In this manner, when a user positions the additive refill cartridge in the docking port 230, all four additive chambers 204 are filled to the target capacity simultaneously.

According to the illustrated embodiment, docking port 230 is defined proximate top edge 180 of door 116, e.g., to facilitate gravity-based refilling of bulk storage tank 202. In addition, according to example embodiments, docking port 230 may be “poka-yoked” to receive the additive refill cartridge. In this regard, the geometry of docking port 230 and the additive refill cartridge may be designed in such a manner that they are capable of engaging each other only when in a desired orientation. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, each of the plurality of inlets 232 may have a different diameter configured for engaging a corresponding dispensing nipple of the additive refill cartridge.

According to an example embodiment, additive dispensing system 200 may further include one or more fluid level sensors 240 that are positioned within each of the plurality of additive chambers 204 for detecting the volume of wash additive in each of the plurality of chamber 204. In this manner, controller 160 may periodically or constantly monitor the level of wash additive in each additive chamber 204 of bulk storage tank 202 and may notify the user when a tank refill is needed.

As best shown in FIG. 5, according to an example embodiment, dishwasher appliance 100 may further include a single use detergent or rinse aid dispenser 242. In this regard, dishwasher appliance 100 may be configured to operate in an automatic dispensing mode (e.g., using additive dispensing system 200) or in a manual detergent mode (e.g., where a user may add the desired wash additive into single-use dispenser 242 prior to performing a single operating cycle of dishwasher 100). According to the illustrated embodiment, single-use dispenser 242 may be positioned on rear end 186 of door 116.

Notably, the ability to operate additive dispensing system 200 at any time during an operating cycle without opening door 116 may facilitate an adaptive wash cycle and dishwasher appliance 100. In this regard, if an operating cycle of dishwasher appliance 100 is not removing soils as expected, additional detergent may be added during the cycle. In order to facilitate the detection of cycle performance, dishwasher appliance 100 may further include a turbidity sensor 100 that is generally configured for measuring a turbidity or soil level of the wash fluid within wash tub 104. Further details of turbidity sensor 250 are omitted here for brevity, but it should be appreciated that turbidity sensor 250 may be any suitable sensor for detecting wash performance within dishwasher appliance 100.

Now that the construction of dishwasher appliance 100 and additive dispensing system 200 according to exemplary embodiments have been presented, an exemplary method 300 of operating a dishwasher appliance will be described. Although the discussion below refers to the exemplary method 300 of operating dishwasher appliance 100 and additive dispensing system 200, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the exemplary method 300 is applicable to the operation of a variety of other dishwasher appliances. Moreover, aspects of the present subject matter may be applicable to the operation of any dispensing system on any suitable appliance, such as a washing machine appliance. In exemplary embodiments, the various method steps as disclosed herein may be performed by controller 160 or a separate, dedicated controller.

Referring now to FIG. 8, method 300 includes, at step 310, operating a water supply to add a volume of water into a wash tub of a dishwasher appliance. In this regard, continuing the example from above, water supply 206 may be operated to add water into sump 138 of wash tub 104. Notably, depending on the operating cycle being performed by dishwasher appliance 100, it may be desirable to add one or more detergents, rinse aid, bleach, or other wash additives. According to example embodiments, determining what additives may be needed may be based on water quality measurements within wash tub 104. Accordingly, step 320 may include obtaining a turbidity reading of wash fluid in the wash tub using a turbidity sensor. Although a turbidity sensor is described as being used herein to measure a turbidity water, it should be appreciated that any suitable sensor for measuring any suitable quantitative or qualitative characteristics of the water quality may be used while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

Step 330 may generally include determining a target additive volume based on the turbidity reading. In this regard, as described in more detail below, the target additive dispensing volume may vary based on the needs of a particular operating cycle, the cycle performance, the dishes being cleaned, and/or user selections. Step 340 may generally include operating an additive dispensing system to dispense the target additive volume into the wash tub. In this manner, additive dispensing system 200 may dispense any suitable volume of any suitable additive at any suitable time and from any suitable chamber 204 of additive dispensing system 200.

Notably, it may be desirable to monitor the remaining volume of wash additive within each of additive chambers 204. Accordingly, method 300 may further include, at step 350, detecting a remaining volume within each of the plurality of additive chambers using fluid level sensors. Step 360 may include displaying the remaining volume within each of the plurality of additive chambers on a user interface panel. For example, the user interface panel may be user interface panel 164 or a user's mobile phone or other external device 192.

Example schematic ways of determining the target additive volume and operating an additive dispensing system are illustrated in FIGS. 9 through 12. For example, a standard detergent dose (“D”) may be a predetermined additive volume commonly dispensed during a given operating cycle. As shown in FIG. 9, when a user starts a cycle, controller 160 may use turbidity sensor 250 to measure a turbidity or water quality of the wash fluid in tub 104. According to example embodiments, this turbidity reading may be obtained a predetermined amount of time after adding the water into the wash tub 104. According to still other embodiments, a brief cleaning cycle may be performed or pump 152 may otherwise circulate the wash fluid, e.g., to obtain a good mixture before obtaining the turbidity reading (e.g., in Nephelometric Turbidity Units, or NTUs).

According to an example embodiment, the target additive volume may be generally proportional to the turbidity reading. In addition, the target additive volume may be quantified as a multiple of a standard dispense volume. In this regard, the target additive volume may be the standard detergent dose for a standard turbidity reading (e.g., 1000 NTU). By contrast, a relatively low turbidity reading (e.g., 500 NTU) may result in a target additive volume that is 0.75 times the standard detergent dose while a relatively high turbidity reading (e.g., 1500 NTU) may result in a target additive volume that is 1.25 times the standard detergent dose. It should be appreciated that the turbidity measurements and the associated target additive volumes are only exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the present subject matter in any manner.

In addition, according to an example embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 10, the turbidity of the wash fluid may be measured at multiple times during an operating cycle and detergent dosages may be adjusted in the middle of an operating cycle. For example, according to an example embodiment, the first turbidity reading may be obtained during a pre-wash portion of the operating cycle. After the pre-wash cycle is completed, a main wash cycle may commence and an auxiliary turbidity reading may be obtained using the turbidity sensor 250. During the main wash cycle, method 300 may further include determining an auxiliary target additive volume based on the auxiliary turbidity reading. The additive dispensing system 200 may then be operated to dispense the auxiliary target additive volume for use within the main wash cycle.

Notably, the relationship between the target additive volume and the turbidity reading may be adjustable by a user, a maintenance technician, the manufacturer, or any other suitable party. In this regard, if a user frequently finds the dishes are not getting clean enough or have water spots on them, the user may manually adjust the dosage amounts, e.g., using user interface panel 164 or a software application on a remote device (e.g., a user's mobile phone). In this regard, as shown for example in FIG. 11, a user may increase the use of wash additive by a predetermined percentage, such as 10% using the user interface panel 164. The process may then proceed in a manner similar to that described in FIG. 10 but with the dosage amounts modified by the user input amount.

As shown in FIG. 12, aspects of method 300 may further include operating in an open-ended manner, e.g., independent of turbidity readings. In this regard, method 300 may include determining a standard detergent volume or dosage amount and adjusting that amount based on the user selected cycle. In this regard, method 300 may include receiving a user input of a light cycle, a normal cycle, a heavy cycle, etc. Method 300 may then include decreasing or increasing the standard detergent amount by a predetermined percentage based on the cycle selected (e.g., with a lighter cycle utilizing less detergent than a heavy cycle).

FIGS. 8 through 12 depict steps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and discussion. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, will understand that the steps of any of the methods discussed herein can be adapted, rearranged, expanded, omitted, or modified in various ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, although aspects of method 300 are explained using dishwasher appliance 100 and additive dispensing system 200 as an example, it should be appreciated that this method may be applied to the operation of any suitable additive dispensing system in any suitable appliance.

As explained herein, aspects of the present subject matter are generally directed to a bulk detergent dispensing system for a dishwasher. The system may include a docking port for accepting a cartridge/bottle containing one or more washing liquids, detergents, or other additives. The docking port may be designed to allow only cartridges to dock with it, and the cartridge or bottle may be dispensed in a bulk storage tank or a plurality of separate tanks. Further, a diverter and pump assembly may be used for precisely and selectively dispensing one or more of the wash liquids to the wash chamber.

In addition, aspects of the present subject matter may include methods for using the bulk detergent dispensing system to facilitate adaptive detergent dosing in a dishwasher. For example, the bulk dispenser may selectively adjust the detergent dose dispensed based on soil level readings, consumer input, connected updates, and other measures of soil determination. The dishwasher may check the turbidity multiple times using a camera, input from other appliances, etc., and may determine how adhered the soils are to increase or decrease the detergent usage based on the changes during the cycle. The consumer or service technician may also input desired cycle to increase or decrease detergent usage in order to meet desired performance. In addition, a user interface and/or mobile application may include a “fuel gauge” that gives consumers feedback on remaining detergent based on current usage and soil load patterns. An algorithm could also tell consumers if the system is consistently seeing too high of an NTU for dosage setting/cycle selection to educate consumer on selecting different cycles or increasing detergent.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

BULK ADDITIVE DISPENSING SYSTEM FOR A DISHWASHER APPLIANCE

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